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Sisters of the Mists Ch. 01

By: Darkniciad



Author's Notes:

(ADDED March 2011) I just want to warn everyone that this story isn't complete yet. I had a major tragedy in my life on the day that Ch. 12 of this story came out. It's still not easy to bring Danica back to life, but I am working on the story. As of right now, I have Ch. 17 finished, and I'm beginning to post new chapters. It may be quite some time before the story is complete, however. I just wanted to warn any new readers. (END ADDITION)

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission. © Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline. For those who've already read Danica, welcome back to my world. I know it's been a long wait.

Please note that this first chapter contains no detailed sex. The sex will come as the story progresses.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica sat up in bed, sucking in a great gasping breath. Her auburn hair hung in damp ringlets over her face, stirred by blasts of breath as she tried to recover from the shock of her dream.

Throwing off the stifling coverings, Danica found her nightshirt soaked in sweat, clinging to her body like a second skin. Her nipples stiffened in the cool night air, making the garment she wore appear even more transparent.

Danica heard a voice from her doorway, "Was it the dream again?"

Pushing the hair away from her face, Danica nodded slightly, "I'm sorry, Celes -- was I projecting again?"

Running a hand through her disheveled raven locks and yawning, Celes responded, "My ears are ringing, and my head is throbbing. Was it worse this time?" She plucked at her nightshirt, the tight material having bunched up above her firm breasts as she slept.

"It was for me," Andrea interrupted, stumbling into the room to stand next to Celes, rubbing her bloodshot eyes. Her blonde hair stuck out wildly in all directions, her lithe body covered only by a pair of white panties and a sheer dressing gown.

"I nearly fell out of bed when it hit me," Marlena added, coming in right behind Andrea. Her nightgown was rumpled, and her dark auburn hair just as mussed as that of the other three women. "I think I hear the girls."

Stretching, causing her breasts to jut free of her dressing gown for a moment, Andrea said, "I'll go calm them down and get them back to sleep."

"I'll go with you," Marlena offered, holding out her hand to the still half-asleep blonde to guide her steps to the other side of the manor.

"I'm sorry, and tell the girls I'm sorry for waking them too," Danica sighed, pulling the chilly, wet cloth of her nightshirt away from her body, as she was breaking out in gooseflesh.

As the two women nodded their understanding to Danica and left the room, Celes walked over to Danica's closet and called back to her friend, "You about hurled me out of bed too. Are you okay?"

Danica waited for Celes to walk back out of the closet, carrying a clean nightshirt and bedclothes, before she responded. "I guess. You're right, it was worse this time. It was so vivid, and I saw them all die -- horribly."

Celes sat her bundle down on the edge of the bed and walked up to cup Danica's cheek in her hand. "Come along now; get out of that wet thing and into the bath. I'll change the covers for you."

Swinging her still trembling legs over the edge of the bed, Danica smiled wanly and said, "Thank you, Celes."

Helping Danica to stand, Celes smiled back and led her to the tub, touching the runes to fill it with warm, steaming water. The magic worked in mere moments, and before Danica could even pull her nightshirt over her head, the tub was full.

When the cloth cleared her eyes, Danica found Celes staring with a crooked smile. "That will wake a woman up," Celes purred and licked her lips.

Danica smiled and blushed slightly. "Naughty." Her smile faded then, and she sighed. "Thanks for trying, but I just can't shake that dream, even for that."

Guiding Danica to climb into the bath, Celes sighed as well, and said, "I understand. I'll just have to try harder, later. I don't think this is just a bad dream, Danica. This is twice now."

"You're right, this felt a lot like the dream that led us here. I've got to do something."

Celes handed Danica a washcloth. "Well, you'll have all the help you need. You know we'll all put our studies aside, and one of us will take over with the girls while you get it done."

Danica smiled. "Did I just hear you say, the girls?"

Celes chuckled and tossed her hair, turning away and walking back toward the bed. "Yes, dammit -- don't rub it in. You're right, there's far more to them than just being magical creations. I can already see them developing their own personalities, and it's only been three months."

Moving the bundle of bedclothes to a nearby nightstand, Celes stripped the bed while Danica bathed. "Selena disturbs me, though. All she seems to be able to think about are men and their poles. Hearing things like that in my voice, and seeing myself saying them, makes my skin crawl a bit."

Danica reached for a cake of soap to wash her sweat-soaked hair and responded, "Selena was luckier than the rest. The man Zoraster gave her to most often actually treated her well, and apparently thought of her pleasure as well. Your first experience with men and sex was horrible, hers was a lot nicer."

"It's just disconcerting," Celes said, dropping the last of the bedclothes into a pile. "I assumed I was just born this way, and that I was responding to what everyone else thought was right when I played around with boys, more than my own feelings."

"Selena doesn't mean you're wrong, Sara barely thinks about men, but she thinks about women all the time. It's just another example of how they're individuals, not just copies of us." Danica dunked her head then to wet her hair, starting to wash it as soon as she rose back up out of the water.

Celes finished making up the bed while Danica washed her hair. Pulling up a chair next to the tub when she was done, Celes asked, "So, what are you going to do?"

Danica concentrated for a moment before replying, "Tonda, Jaron, Rekhmire, and Tari are the ones who are in the most danger. I can't be sure that Zoraster didn't tell others about them, and they're living in his outposts. I think everyone else should be pretty safe, either because they can handle themselves, or because they're already hidden away like Carolyn, Heather, and Grant."

Celes nodded. "Sounds about right. So, go get them first thing in the morning. Just get them out of those places for now, and worry about where to set them up later. Maybe we'll all get some sleep again, that way."

"Speaking of sleep -- the girls are all asleep again, and so is Andrea," Marlena said as she walked back into the room. "I don't know how Andrea can sing so beautifully when she can barely stand upright because she's so tired. She sang a lullaby, and I made an illusion of a glade full of deer. Once the girls drifted off, I took Andrea to bed."

"Andrea is really working hard to learn about her powers. She's afraid of hurting someone with them," Celes offered.

Danica stood up and smoothed water off her body. "She's doing pretty well too. How are you coming along with controlling your powers, Celes?"

Celes smiled and turned toward a towel hanging near the tub. She concentrated and made a little gesture with her right hand. An instant later, the towel was in her left hand.

Danica took the towel and said, "I guess you're doing well with controlling your powers too. Better than I am, obviously, if I woke everyone up because of my dream."

Celes made a dismissive sound. "I have that one pretty much under control, but when I just try to just move something with my other power, I usually end up making a mess. Of course, that makes me mad, and I usually end up moving something else I didn't mean to move and add to the devastation."

Marlena yawned and stretched. "I'm going back to bed too. We've all been working hard. I think we need to take a break and relax for a while."

Danica finished toweling off and turned toward the other red-haired woman. "You're probably right. Between Celes and Andrea getting their family books, and the two of us having Zoraster's library to absorb, we've all had our noses stuck in books for three months now."

"The only breaks we take are to keep the girls out of trouble," Celes agreed.

Marlena glanced at Celes with a surprised smile, and then turned toward Danica to ask, "Did she just say what I thought she did?"

Celes snorted and went to sit down on the bed. "Bah, weren't you going to bed?"

Danica chuckled, "Celes has finally come around, yes. We should all probably get back to bed. I know I'm going to be busy tomorrow. Sorry for waking you all, and thanks for coming to calm me down. I really appreciate it."

Marlena asked, "Busy?"

"I'll explain to you and Andrea in the morning." Danica yawned, setting off a chain-reaction in the other two women as well. Danica yawned out "Stop that!"

"You started it," Marlena accused, getting caught up one more time in the circle and stretching. "Good night."

Celes watched Danica pull on her clean nightshirt, feeling her heart flutter and her sex tingle. "We've been too busy for other things, too."

Danica shivered and walked over to Celes, kissing her. "We definitely need to do something about that." She sighed, ran her finger down Celes' back, and added, "I don't know if I'm up to it tonight though."

"Truth to tell, I think I'm too tired too. I didn't go to bed much before Andrea."

They kissed again, and Danica said, "Get some rest then, we want to have plenty of energy when we do get a chance."

"Mmm hmm," Celes moaned and then left the room for her own bed.

Danica's dreams were much more pleasant when she drifted off to sleep again.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Standing in the throne room of Nightmare Castle, Ebonar brushed at a spot of imaginary lint on his cloak and asked, "So, Meckataur, this seals the bargain? I can count on you to continue under exactly the same terms as the agreement you reached with my Master?"

"If you hold up your end of the bargain, and this one casts the spell," the Demon Lord rumbled, pointing an enormous clawed finger at the wizard standing off to one side.

"Cast the Hellgate, Transk."

The wizard Transk nodded, and started the gestures to summon up the Hellgate. As soon as the portal materialized, Meckataur's maw split into a wide, frightening smile. "Enter, and bring your servants to the portal."

Transk glanced at Ebonar, who narrowed his eyes and nodded in irritation. The wizard glanced again at the Demon, and then the portal, before turning back to Ebonar, finding his master's eyes growing harder by the moment.

Swallowing hard, Transk stepped into the portal and summoned forth the demonic denizens of his personal realm. In the form of buxom women, they stepped from their hiding places and approached him, licking their lips and shedding clothing. Resisting the considerable temptation, Transk led the dangerous creatures to stand in front of the portal.

Upon reaching the portal, the looming form of the chanting Demon Lord filled Transk's vision. The creature finished its chant, and Transk felt a ripple pass through the dimensional pocket in which he stood. Panicking, he tried to close the portal, and found he could not. Trying to stumble away from the hulking form of the Hellspawn, he found that he was paralyzed as well.

Two extra arms sprouted with a horrible cracking and tearing sound from Meckataur's torso. Flexing his new fingers, the Devil snapped them through the portal to grasp all four of the demons cloaked in woman's flesh, pulling them up against the portal, through which they could not pass.

Sweat stood out on Transk's forehead as the wizard fought against the magic holding him. When Meckataur's eyes fell on him, the doomed wizard poured every ounce of his will into breaking the Devil's magic, to no avail.

Meckataur opened his maw wide, pushing through the portal to snap his jaws closed over the wizard's head. High-pitched screams erupted from the demons in Meckataur's grasp, and the creatures reverted to their natural forms as they writhed. The Demon Lord growled in satisfaction as the wizard's life force surged into him, and he felt the man's body go limp as it hung from his jaws.

The portal started to quiver and emit an ominous hum. Meckataur could see the world within losing substance, breaking apart. With a surge of power, he jerked the four demons and the wizard back through the portal into the real world. The portal collapsed in on itself, radiating bolts of black lightning from all that remained -- a spot about the size of an apple.

The Devil stiffened as the black bolts struck him, turning three of the demons in his grasp to ash. The fourth smoked and writhed before going limp, but did not disintegrate. At last, the portal vanished with a loud pop, staggering Meckataur back a step with the force of its implosion.

Letting the mangled wizard fall from his mouth, Meckataur snarled, "Bring the Fey." Dropping the remaining demon to the floor, Meckataur turned his attention to devouring what remained of the dead wizard.

Arleen, Meckataur's wizardess servant, towed an unconscious young elven woman toward the Devil on a magical disk of light in response to his order. She reached him just as he finished his grisly feast, and the Demon Lord picked up the limp form of the other demon when he noticed her.

Grasping the demon's hand, Meckataur squeezed the claws together with pops of snapping bone into a dagger-like point. He then smiled, the wizard's blood dripping from his fangs, and thrust the demon's claws into the elven woman's breast.

The elf female stiffened for just an instant as she died, even as the demon started twitching from her life force flowing through it. Steadily, the minor hellspawn recovered and stood, immediately devouring the woman as soon as it was able.

Meckataur's tongue slid over his teeth as he watched the other demon feed. The Devil would have preferred to devour the elf maiden himself, but he knew that only the life force of a virgin Fey had any hope of keeping his new servant alive outside the place of its spawning. Likewise, that life force should give the creature a power Meckataur desired very much, should Ebonar's suggestion prove true.

Thin and almost human looking, the feasting demon was a sharp contrast to the hulking Demon Lord that stood over it. It was the first of its kind to be torn from a Hellgate, the first to taste blood. The creature had lived on siphoned emotions since the moment it was spawned, but now it knew what a true banquet was.

The smaller demon finished its meal, going so far as to lick the blood from the magical disk until no evidence whatsoever of the elf woman's existence remained. As it raised its head and growled in satisfaction, Meckataur placed a huge hand on its shoulder and turned it.

"I am Meckataur, and you serve me now," The Demon Lord said in the dark guttural language of the underworld.

Sensing the immense power of the Devil, though it had never before encountered one, the smaller demon prostrated itself before Meckataur. "I am C'seka, Lord, and I will serve you willingly for eternity for more of these."

"Blood and life of mortals you shall have, if you serve me well. Oblivion awaits you for failure."

Ebonar interrupted, "I trust our bargain is sealed?"

Meckataur sniffed the air, searching for the slightest hint that this man who claimed to speak with Zoraster's voice felt fear. He found none. Only one other mortal had stood before him unafraid, and that was Zoraster Arias. It was both threatening and fascinating to the Devil at the same time.

"My hordes will rise up when the time comes. The bargain is sealed, Mortal."

Ebonar bowed and smiled. "I will leave you to your entertainments, then, Demon Lord."

With those words, Ebonar vanished in a flash of light; again giving Meckataur reason to be both impressed and wary of the man, for few could have teleported through the wards surrounding his fell castle.

"I do not trust that one," Arleen warned.

"I trust no mortal," Meckataur rumbled. "Tend to my spawn. The time draws near when they will come into their power. Inform me immediately when one transcends the barrier of their birth flesh."

Arleen bowed. "Of course, my Lord and Evil Master."

"My hordes will rise up, and once your enemies have been destroyed, so shall you, mortal. This world will be mine." Meckataur's thunderous, guttural laughter filled the crumbling Great Hall of Nightmare Castle.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica was the first to rise, anxiety to rescue those she had come to love awakening her early. The smell of coffee brewing and bacon sizzling drew the other three women from their beds shortly thereafter. Once fully awake and fed, they all turned to the task of preparing breakfast for the dozen clones they referred to as the girls. Six clones of Danica, and two each of the other three women, all dozed contentedly on the other side of the manor.

The four surrogate mothers left the clones to their meal, and the playtime that always followed, returning to the common room to talk while monitoring the girls by magical means. All things considered, the clones behaved well and needed little tending.

"Okay, now Marlena and Andrea know what you plan to do today. So, have you thought of a place to move them?"

Danica nodded. "Tonda and Jaron could live with the natives on Darkni's island. The culture and climate are similar, and neither of them has family tying them to their homeland. They could be happy there with each other, and they would certainly be well protected."

"Good idea. I doubt even Zoraster would have dared cross Darkniciad," Marlena observed.

"I don't think there is anyone Zoraster feared -- even his former mentor and teacher," Celes said quietly.

Andrea furrowed her brow and spoke, "I can't believe that there was such darkness in him. He always seemed so noble and confident when I spoke with him."

"We knew his other side -- all too well -- Andrea. He was mad and power-hungry," Danica said while shaking her head slowly. "The world is far better off with him dead. I think I'll move Rekhmire and Hathortari to the center of power. I think I can call in a favor with the Pharaoh, their King, through his sons. The population should be enough to mask them from Zoraster's minions. He was just starting to explore that area when he sent me there. I doubt he would have had much time to bother using magical means to track servants, regardless of my relationship with them. I saw no evidence of it in his memories at the end, at least."

"Sounds like you have it all worked out, then," Celes said and rose, "I'll watch the girls this morning."

"Did she just say, the girls?" Andrea asked with amusement.

Celes rolled her eyes and sighed, "Good, now you all have that out of your systems. You were all right, and I was being stubborn. It was Sara that convinced me. She saw me distraught and lost in thought, and just walked up and hugged me. I'd have never done that, but I could sense real concern coming from her. They're just as real as you or I, and I'm sorry I didn't see it before."


Sisters of the Mists Ch. 01



Danica stood and hugged her friend. "It's probably just as well. What would have happened if Zoraster could have used Sara and Selena against you, like he used Danielle and the others against me? The way you thought of them as little more than magic items protected you from being so powerfully influenced by them."

Celes hugged Danica back, and then said, "Well, it's time to get to know them, now."

Andrea nodded toward the viewing portal that let them all watch the clones at play from the other side of the manor. "You'd better get over there, it looks like Angela and Mariette are about to sneak off into a room together. They've got to learn to control those urges, especially if they end up having powers."

Celes sighed and shook her head, watching the clones of Andrea and Marlena quickly progressing toward intimate touches. "You're right. Danica's girls, at least, are already starting to use telekinesis unconsciously. If the others develop witch powers, they'll need to learn to control their emotions. We're having enough trouble, without having to learn our own abilities and teach them to control theirs at the same time."

"I should get back to practicing. I'm still setting fire to everything when I try to control that power," Andrea said as she rose from her chair.

"You should get into bed and rest for a while, is what you should do. You look like one of the walking dead, and that can't be helping you cope with your powers," Marlena scolded.

Andrea ran a hand over her face, "Do I really look that bad?"

Danica shrugged and said, "You do look moderately dreadful. I think Marlena's right -- you should get more rest. It's almost your time of the month too, and I don't think that would be the best time to be experimenting with your powers much."

"We don't want a repeat of last month's great stew freezing," Celes teased and hurried out of the room to separate the two increasingly amorous clones.

Andrea sighed, "You're right, I feel horrible. You won't let me sleep too late, will you?"

"I'll need your help with lunch, so I can't let you sleep too long," Marlena explained.

"Okay, I'm going back to bed then. I'll see you when you get home, Danica."

"I probably won't be back tonight; I'm going to have to travel to the central city by normal means. I've never been there, and it would probably take almost as long to find it with the Hellgate as it would just to go."

Andrea paused and hugged Danica before going to her room. "Be careful, and call if you need help. If I can freeze a whole kitchen full of stew, I can certainly do some damage to anyone trying to hurt you."

"I will. Go get some rest." Turning to Marlena then, Danica said, "I'm going to go get ready. Try to keep things under control around here, Marlena."

"I will -- it makes me feel useful."

Danica nodded and smiled, but she sighed inwardly as she turned toward her room. Marlena always downplayed her abilities, and constantly thought that she was just an inconvenience to the other women, with their varied magical abilities. The illusionist truly had no idea just how powerful she was, and Danica had no idea how to convince her otherwise.

Danica was packed and ready to go only a short while later. She dressed in a sarong and light top, knowing it was going to be hot and sticky when she arrived on the island to pick up Jaron and Tonda in a few moments. Turning to a mirror, she twitched her eyebrows and posed, admiring her body in the reflective surface. The native costume of Tonda's people certainly looked good on her.

She licked her lips and remembered Celes' observation that none of them had found the time to be with each other since coming to the valley. Thoughts of Jaron and Tonda quickly built a fire of desire within Danica, and she was caressing her nether lips through the sarong before she even realized what she was doing.

Snapping out of her thoughts, Danica pulled her hand away from her sex and sighed. The girls weren't the only ones that needed to learn how to control their urges. Danica had the additional problem that she inspired the same sort of feelings in others -- thanks to the Awakening -- so her sexual desires carried twice as many implications as those of the clones. When she was studying, as she had been for months now, it was easy to ignore. As soon as she pulled her bottom out of a chair and her nose out of a book, it was much more difficult.

Casting the Hellgate spell, Danica knew it would be painfully hard to resist giving in once she saw Jaron and Tonda. She decided she was going to pour every ounce of her will into not tumbling into bed with the couple the moment she saw them.

Stepping into the portal, she shook her head and laughed when the thought that even failing to achieve that goal was hardly an unwelcome prospect. It would be nice if every decision I made led to good things, no matter what I end up doing.

The portal closed as Danica stepped inside, emerging a moment later near the waterfall on the island where Tonda lived.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

C'seka's head came up, pointed ears pricking to the wind and nostrils flaring. The sensation was not physical in nature, but the creature's body reacted unconsciously to the touch. The demon cocked its head to the side as if listening, waiting to see if the sensation returned.

Nothing.

The touch the creature had felt was not the blood of a Fey calling to it, the power that had washed over C'seka while consuming the elf maiden -- it was something different. The feeling was similar to when the wizard had opened the Hellgate that was the demon's original home, but carried a different scent -- a different taste -- if a feeling could be said to have such.

C'seka returned to exploring the castle, curious about this large new world in which it now lived.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Meckataur watched the light leave the elven warrior's eyes, even as his blood flowed down the Devil's arm. The Fey's life force flowed grudgingly into Meckataur's body, infusing him with power and ecstasy.

When at last the flow of power ceased, Meckataur examined the corpse, tearing away the loose fitting, grit filled clothing from the elf's body. The elf had deeply sun-browned skin, tough as leather, and dark hair, so uncommon amongst most of the hated race.

A desert Fey. Is there no place that is not infested with the vermin? No matter, more to feast upon, more souls to rend for eternity.

The demon examined what few fleeting impressions it was able to absorb from the dying elf, those not protected by the frustrating ability the Fey had to hide their thoughts. He had enough -- he now knew where these desert dwelling elves lived. The lifeforce was uniquely flavorful, and a quick taste confirmed that the Fey's blood was equally sweet on his tongue.

Meckataur found no evidence of Fey magic in his stolen memories. That didn't mean it did not exist, but the knowledge that it was obviously not commonplace caused the Devil to chuckle. If these Fey lack magic, they will be ripe for the harvest.

Vanishing in a crackle of flame with the elf's body, Meckataur reappeared in Nightmare castle, immediately savoring a bite of his prize. The demon's mind whirled as it considered the best means to exploit his new knowledge, and cause pain to the Fey gods.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

It took Danica a while to get to the point of her visit. Once she arrived at Tonda's house, the woman's pregnancy and catching up took precedence. Danica exercised phenomenal control by suppressing her considerable sexual urges, and eventually managed to get around to telling the couple why she was there.

Tonda asked, "But will not someone else be in danger, then?"

"Not really. Whoever stepped into Zoraster's place will need people tending his outposts, and maltreating them just defeats the purpose. The danger to the two..." Danica paused and corrected the statement with a smile, "The danger to the three of you is me. I escaped, and whoever took up the reins of Zoraster's schemes might try to use you against me."

"You say this place of which you speak will be safe for our child?" Jaron asked, placing his hand over Tonda's swollen tummy.

"If anywhere in the world will be safe, it will be Darkni's island. The climate is nearly identical to yours, and the people who live on the island are a lot like your people here -- except the wizards, of course. They don't bother the natives of the island, except to protect and trade with them."

Jaron's brow furrowed in concentration as Danica spoke of the island. When she finished, he asked, "Might your enemies not use our people to threaten us, and thus to threaten you, should we leave?"

Danica shook her head. "If they were going to go to that much trouble, there are others who would be just as easy to reach, and doing something like that could upset their plans in this area. Zoraster's only interest in your island was the necromancy your people once practiced, which he has now, and the gold on the other side of the island. This place will probably be nothing more than a waypoint for his minions now, and they might even decide to move the outpost to the miner's camp."

Tonda turned to her husband, caressing his strong chin as she spoke, "I think we should go and at least see this place. The men of the black wizard were rude and loathsome, but I never felt as though I was in any danger here. I believe Danica is correct."

"We will see this place then," Jaron agreed, smoothing back Tonda's dark, kinky curls and kissing her as he finished.

"Let me cast my spell then, and we'll go right now," Danica said with obvious relief in her voice. A few moments later, they stepped through the portal to appear on Darkniciad's island.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The touch was stronger this time, and the same as the first. C'seka had felt other similar sensations, but this one had the same taste as the first it had felt. Ever mischievous and curious, the demon was now more so upon being torn free of its birthplace into the wider world.

The demon sensed the origin of the sensation was female, and it could feel hazy impressions that others of its kind were nearby as well. A female uses the Hellgate spell, then, the creature thought.

C'seka hunkered down in the remote alcove it had chosen as its place in the castle, to consider how it might exploit this new knowledge, and this new power.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Welcome, Danica," Darkniciad exclaimed as he walked into the Hall of Gates, as the room where those who were allowed to teleport to his island was known. "All goes well, I trust?"

"Hello, Darkni. Everything is fine. The girls are all learning fast, and so are we." Raising their hands, which she still held, in turn, Danica introduced her two companions.

After a few gestures, Darkni spoke in the couple's native tongue, "Any who share friendship with Danica are always welcome on my island."

Confusion as to how they should respond raced through Tonda and Jaron's minds, the thoughts so strong that Danica heard them without trying. She chuckled and said, "No need to stand on ceremony. Darkniciad is just a man."

"And a silly old one, if you ask my wife," Darkni added, laughing as well. "What brings you to the island, Danica?"

Danica explained the situation, which served to darken the Master Wizard's expression. "I believe your thoughts are well-considered. Someone has indeed stepped into Zoraster's place, and his dark plans move forward." Letting the concern drain from his face, Darkniciad turned to the couple and said, "Please, allow me to introduce you to the chieftain of the people here. I believe you will find them much like your own people, and welcoming of strangers."

"Thank you, great wizard," Tonda said with a little bow of her head.

Darkni waved a hand dismissively. "Please, Darkni will suffice. I get enough of that Master and great wizard nonsense from my students. It seems to take forever to break them of it. Even your sister still does it, Danica."

"I knew my ears were burning for a reason."

Danica turned to see her sister in the doorway of the Hall, and immediately hurried to hug Devan. "It's good to see you!"

"It's good to see you too, Danica. I'll go with you to the village, and we can talk while we walk."

"I'd like that. This is Jaron, and Tonda," Danica introduced.

Devan winked. "I heard. I've been standing in the doorway almost since you arrived. You didn't really think you could sneak out of that valley and come here without your sister knowing about it, did you?" Turning to the couple, she said, "I'm Danica's big sister, Devan."

"Beauty graces all your line, it appears," Tonda remarked.

"Thank you -- and you're right," Devan responded with a toss of her hair and a laugh. "It looks like you may be starting a line of beautiful people there," she added, gesturing to Tonda's tummy.

"Very soon, I believe. It grows harder to get around each day, and the child kicks unmercifully."

Let me guess, you've had the privilege of seeing both of them with those skimpy clothes off, haven't you? Nice outfit, by the way, Sis.

Yes -- and behave, Devan, Danica thought back to her sister.

"Shall we go then?" Darkniciad asked.

Everyone nodded, and the group made their way through the halls of Darkni's school, and out into the tropical lushness of his isle.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The small group of demonic minions gathered before Meckataur were not his most powerful, but they were some of his most cunning. They lay prostrate before him, groveling at his clawed feet, but the Demon Lord knew it was only because of his vast power that the creatures put on such airs.

"Rise -- we go to curse the Fey," Meckataur ordered, and the creatures immediately sprang to their feet.

Speaking harsh words of magic, the Devil transported himself and his minions to the remote desert near where the newfound elves dwelt. "Remain hidden. Learn of their numbers, and their magic. Touch none of the Fey unless I give you leave," Meckataur commanded.

The demons all quietly growled -- disappointed that they would not be allowed to attack the elves, which they hated just as much as their Master did. Offering a toothy grin, Meckataur placated them by saying, "Serve me well, and you shall have fine morsels of their flesh and souls, when the time comes."

Hisses of dark pleasure greeted that statement.

"Go," Meckataur commanded, and then vanished in a burst of flame.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Okay, this is ridiculous," Devan grumbled, wiping sweat from her brow. She then spoke words of magic and surrounded her body with a cocoon of cool air. "I had no idea it was this hot outside the school. I know why you're half naked now, Danica."

Darkniciad chuckled, "You're getting soft, Devan. I remember a time when a little hot weather didn't trouble you."

"I was getting soft -- I was melting. How much farther is the village?"

"Not much further," Darkniciad advised, "We should break free of the trees shortly."

"This is much like our island," Tonda observed, looking around as Jaron aided her waddling steps along the narrow jungle trail.

"I often find it fascinating to discover such similar places, so far apart. Your language differs from that of those who dwell here, but I would guess that you will still be able to understand much of their speech. I believe I have magical means to hasten your understanding, but I have yet to have the opportunity to try it." Darkni gestured with his staff then, "There, you can see the jungle opening up."

A few steps later, they stepped out of the trees to see a village nearly identical to Jaron and Tonda's, right on a pristine, white sand beach. The couple turned and smiled at each other, glad to see that their lives would change little, should they choose to live here.

Darkniciad led the group to a slightly larger home near the center of the village, locals greeting him as they passed. The people were obviously curious about Tonda and Jaron, a few greeting them as well. The couple found that, while the language was different, they did indeed understand the general meaning of much that was said to them.

They were admitted to the chieftain's house with smiles, and greeted warmly by the man's wife. After a brief introduction and explanation, Darkniciad asked if he might attempt his new magic, which should help the couple learn the differences between the two languages. The chieftain agreed, and Darkni worked his Art.

The chieftain asked, "Are my words now clear to you?"

Jaron and Tonda both looked at each other and smiled. They turned to the chieftain and Tonda said, "Yes, it is quite remarkable. I understand everything now."

"Then I shall now welcome you to our village properly. We would be pleased to have you as one of our people, should you choose to stay."

Danica asked, "So, what do you think? I'd really feel better knowing you were here and safe, but you have to be comfortable with the decision."

"If you believe that our child will be safer here, then we will come," Jaron responded.

"He speaks with my heart as well, Danica. There are still many dark memories of the Nameless Ones on our island. We will come," Tonda added.

Breathing a sigh of relief, Danica smiled and said, "Let's go get your things, then."

"You may rest at the school if you wish, until a dwelling has been constructed for you," Darkni offered. "In fact, I would very much like the time to speak with you Tonda. What you know of Zoraster's servants could be valuable in combating his plans."

The chieftain's wife whispered to him, and he turned to Tonda to say, "My wife will attend you when you return. All in the village seek her out when it comes time to birth a babe, for her knowledge of the miracle is great. She can aid you in the time until the miracle as well."

"Thank you for making us feel so welcome," Tonda said with a slight bow.

The chieftain bowed back. "It will be enlightening to see how your customs differ from ours. Perhaps our people may be stronger for your coming. I believe all things happen for a reason."

"You do plan to at least visit for a while, don't you Danica?" Devan asked.

"I can stay for a while, but I'm worried about others too. I won't be able to relax until they're safe," Danica replied.

"Okay then, but you can't hide out in your picky valley forever, and I miss you," Devan chided.

Danica hugged her sister. "I promise I'll come spend at least a night with you once Tari and Rekhmire are safe."

Once they stepped back from the hug, Devan made a shooing gesture and said, "Well, hurry up then."

Danica laughed, and then asked for permission to cast her spell. When the chieftain gave her leave, she summoned up the Hellgate. Jaron and Tonda followed her in to gather up their things in preparation to move.

As they walked back to the school, Darkniciad said to Devan, "You seem troubled."

Devan sighed. "I don't want to get into it. My life just feels like a lie whenever I look at Danica."

"Now the tables are turned, and you feel inferior next to your sister?"

Devan chuckled, "You know me too well, Darkni. I spent my whole life avoiding attachments, but seeing Danica and all the people who love her, I know now that I was only convincing myself that I was happy."

"You can find your path, just as she did," Darkniciad said, laying a hand on Devan's shoulder as they walked.

Tears misting her eyes, Devan replied, "I hope you're right."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

C'seka's head came up and the demon turned toward the North. Then almost immediately, it turned toward the East. The same sensation again, the same woman using the Hellgate. A woman of power, one whom its kind within her gate feared.

Clicking its claws together, C'seka pondered this development. Meckataur would be pleased with this growing power, should C'seka reveal it the Devil. Perhaps that was the path to power. The demon found that each time someone used the Hellgate spell, it knew about it. Whenever one used it more than once, the connection to them grew stronger.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 01



There was something else, a great hunger gnawing in the demon's belly. It could sense that the means to sate that hunger lay within this new ability. Hunkering down, easing back farther into the shadows, C'seka continued to explore the possibilities, a toothy grin of anticipation breaking across the creature's face.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Celes sat watching the girls at play, amazed by how quickly they were maturing. In only three months, they were advancing from wild abandon to sophisticated games. They were quickly learning to read, and proving to be just as interested in learning as the women from whom they were cloned.

Sensing someone entering the room, Celes turned to find Andrea walking in. "You look a lot better."

"I guess I really did need the rest," Andrea remarked and laughed.

"No, over there," one of the girls called out. It was the young clone of Danica, called Danielle.

"Okay, sorry," another clone of Danica named Damika said, and moved to the place her sibling indicated.

"Danielle there seems to be running the roost. It's a little odd to see the youngest of them, at least in appearance, taking charge," Celes remarked.

Andrea stifled a laugh and nodded slightly in one of her clone's direction, kneeling down to whisper to Celes, "Angela doesn't seem to like it much. She used to be at Danielle's side all the time. I wonder what happened."

"I get the feeing it's a bit of a lover's spat. Their relationships are getting more complicated as they learn. They really are different people from us. I can't believe I never saw it before. Danica's girls, other than Danielle, seem to be holding on to their childhood the strongest."

Andrea watched the girls start their game, whispering to Celes, "I think they were treated far worse than the others, and Danica had her own problems to work through, too. I hope Danica is okay."

Celes nodded. "Me too, but I'm sure she's fine. She'll probably brighten up once she's taken care of hiding away the people who have been in her nightmares."

"I've been having dreams too. Nothing frightening, but they keep happening."

Celes turned toward Andrea, raising her eyebrows in curiosity. "Dreams about what?"

"They're all about nature, and I feel like it's a special time of the year in each one. It's never the same, or in the same place, but those two things are constant," Andrea explained.

"I've been having almost the same dreams. I didn't pay much mind to it, but now that you've pointed out the connections, I see where mine all fit with yours. I think we'd better talk with Marlena, and we all better start telling each other our dreams from now on."

"Do you think someone is manipulating our dreams?"

"I don't know. Maybe something is trying to guide us, like the dreams that brought us here. Except for Danica's nightmares, nothing seems dangerous about them. Let's go talk to Marlena." Clapping her hands, Celes said, "You girls behave. We need to go talk to Marlena for a while. Wash up for supper as soon as you're done playing."

The dozen clones all called out their acknowledgement, and then returned to their game. Celes gestured toward the door. "We need to get started on supper, anyhow. Without Danica here, it's going to take a while. We can talk while we cook."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

As soon as their things were stored away, Tonda and Jaron immediately returned to the village. They felt more comfortable there, and wanted to help in constructing their new home. They would sleep at the school for a few days, but they planned to spend their days in the familiar setting.

Danica was proud of herself for resisting her primal urges, but the couple's excitement about the move distracting them from such thoughts actually had more to do with it than Danica's willpower. After saying her goodbyes, Danica took a walk around the school with her sister.

The size of the school stunned Danica. On her previous visit, she had been too busy to pay attention to just how many people studied here, or how extensive the place was. It was every bit as marvelous as Zoraster's complex, and a far friendlier place. Beyond the main complex, many of the senior workers of Art also had their own places on the isle. Marvelous towers sprouted like a forest beyond the school, each one unique.

Looking out a window at the homes and towers, Danica asked, "Do you have your own place here?"

Devan shook her head. "Not really. I have my own room, when I need it, but it's not much more than I had as an apprentice when I first moved to Destindale. I sort of unofficially took over Darkni's old tower in Egoria, and people more or less call it Devan's tower now. I've made it my own with Darkni's blessing. I need more than shop talk to survive, and it's nice to be a few flights of stairs away from a bustling capital that goes all night."

Noticing that Devan had a distant expression, Danica asked her, "Are you okay? Actually -- what's wrong? I can already tell that something's wrong."

Devan's chuckle had a harsh edge. "Since you popped back in here, I've just been staring into a mirror, and I'm not liking my reflection much."

Her brow furrowing, Danica took her sister's hand and said, "I don't understand."

Holding up the hand that Danica clasped, Devan sighed and explained, "Things just like this. I used to care. I used to reach out. It was a long time ago, but I'm starting to remember it. I also know that I smothered that part of me on purpose, for a lot of reasons. After a while, I got so used to it that I didn't even have to suppress the urge to do things like offer a kind word, or a hug..."

"Serhan." Danica pulled Devan's hand to her lips and kissed it after saying the name.

Devan raised her eyebrows. "Serhan -- there's a name I haven't heard in a long time. What do you mean, though?"

"That's when you started pulling away. It's when you pulled away actually; there was no start to it. The change was almost overnight. You hid it pretty well from Mom and Dad, but I saw it."

"I didn't think I really started fighting it until I moved," Devan mused. "Did I really change that much after..." She paused for a moment then, growling and squeezing Danica's hand. "Okay, maybe that hit me harder than I remembered. Just the thought of him makes me want to go find him and disintegrate him."

"You were in love with him, and he used you." Danica stroked Devan's arm, squeezing the hand she still held comfortingly at the same time.

"And the way I dealt with it was to become just like him," Devan lamented, closing her eyes and sighing.

Danica's voice took on a chiding edge, "You were never anything like him. He hurt people, Devan. It was probably him who tried to rape me, and I know that I wasn't the last. The last I heard, he'd been in jail for years. They caught him raping a blind girl."

"But all I've cared about for years is power. I used people to advance my magic. I used people for sex. I used people to enhance my reputation." Devan hung her head, shaking it sadly.

Leaning down to look up at Devan, Danica said, "You didn't try to hide it, though. Everyone knew that everything you did was for you. You never pretended to love anyone, or used your magic to make them do things that they didn't want to do. You never hurt anyone to get what you wanted."

"Does knowing that you're being used make it any better?"

"Well, no, but at least they had a choice. They did what they did because they were getting something they wanted, too. They knew what they were getting into."

Tears rolled down Devan's cheeks. It was the first time in over a decade that Danica could remember seeing her sister cry. Danica's eyes welled up too, and she wrapped her arms around Devan, leaning her head on her sister's shoulder.

"It was so much easier being cold and hard."

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to make you cry," Danica softly said, kissing Devan's cheek.

Devan sniffled and then laughed. "No, it's okay. That's my problem; I'm always looking for the easy way out. I'm lazy, Danica. I never had a problem with boys or magic, and I just got lazy. Once I figured out how to use my body and my magic to make everything else easier, I didn't waste any time looking for another way."

Taking Danica's hands, Devan spun until they were facing each other at arm's length. "Look at you. You've worked hard for everything all your life, and now it's paying off. From what I've heard, and what you've told me, I don't know if I'd want to cross spells with you any more. You have friends and lovers that want to be with you -- for you -- not just for your body."

Danica started to respond, but Devan smiled through her tears and shushed her sister before continuing, "I have power, and respect, but that's it. You have that now too, and everything else I ever wanted before I locked those needs up in my heart and froze it solid."

"I would still be scraping for a meager existence in Destindale, if Zoraster hadn't lured me in and enslaved me. I had my own problems, and I didn't really do anything to fix them. It was all forced on me."

"You certainly fixed the problem of Zoraster," Devan chuckled in response. "Okay, enough of this. Maybe you're what is supposed to force me out of my rut, to do something different with myself too. Right now, I need to think, and I'm not ready just yet to have anybody wandering through the halls see me blubbering like a heartsick teenager."

Danica leaned in to hug her sister tight. "I should really get going. I have a long, hot, dry journey ahead of me."

"Go on then, and don't hesitate to call if you need me. You were still making a bad habit of not doing that, the last time I checked."

"And you were still a smartass, the last time I checked."

Flipping her hair, Devan smiled and said, "That's never changing."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"I never realized how much we leaned on Danica in the kitchen," Marlena commented as she wiped her brow, while stirring a pot of stew.

"Well, we'll all just have to make due with a few simpler meals until she gets back, or we need to start planning earlier," Andrea said in agreement. "We just don't have her ability to come up with ideas on a moment's notice."

Celes concentrated on the last blackened loaf, teleporting it with her power outside the manor. "Or her innate sense of when the bread is done, as opposed to burning. I managed to save enough for us all to have some -- I think."

Andrea lifted her spoon and took a taste, closing one eye for a moment as she let the flavor swirl over her tongue. She then frowned and reached for a seasoning pot, shaking a little more salt into the pot and stirring again. "I think we're beyond the point where we can do any more damage. All we have to do is stir the stew now, so go on, Marlena."

"Come check mine and make sure it tastes okay to you. I'll stir yours in the meantime," Marlena requested.

The two women switched places, and Andrea cautiously began, "Maybe just a bit more..."

Marlena laughed, saying, "Just do what needs to be done. After Danica, you're our best cook. Anyway, there's not much more to tell. Mists just swirled around my illusion, and the next thing I knew, the goblin was real. I mean, it was still an illusion, but I could feel it, smell it, hear it, touch it, and even knowing I'd created it didn't dull those sensations at all. So then I..."

Celes looked over when Marlena paused, noticing that the other woman was blushing. "Go on, Marlena, it may be important."

"I really don't think it is. It's just the same thing, my illusion was so real, that even I couldn't tell the difference between it and reality."

Andrea dipped the spoon back in her pot with a smile, happy with the flavor now. "You started to tell us something, are you sure it isn't important, Marlena?"

"You're turning awful red, dearie," Celes laughed. "Let me guess, you have illusions that are so good that you can't believe they aren't real, so you tried for a dream?"

Marlena's blush deepened, and she nodded.

Celes smirked a little, but Andrea let out a beatific sigh and asked, "You made your dream man, didn't you?"

Marlena's sigh had strong notes of longing. "Yes, and he was so handsome."

Andrea leaned over toward Marlena and mimed whispering, "Was he any good in bed?"

Marlena let out a little moan and confessed, "Incredible. I was so angry when I woke up alone in my bed."

Stopping for a moment in the midst of slicing bread, Celes gestured with the knife for a moment and said, "It seems like whatever is sending us these messages -- and I'm almost positive that's what it is -- is using our natural dreams, and just molding them a little. That's why all of our dreams have sexual elements, and something to do with cheating our way out of work. We've all been neglecting ourselves, and it's creeping out in our dreams."

"So, what should we do?" Andrea asked, taking a final taste of her stew. With a grunt of effort, she hefted her pot over to an area that was cooler, as it was done and ready to serve.

"I think that as soon as Danica gets back, we sit down and talk this all over again. Then, we all take a break from studying for a while. We've been at it non-stop, and we can't keep up that sort of pace," Celes stated with a note of finality.

"I just feel like I have to, for some reason," Marlena said, stepping out of the way so Andrea could check the other stew pot.

"We all do," Celes agreed. "I think that's the same as our dreams. Something is pushing us to study. I know that we might need all the power we can muster if the seer's predictions about demons come true. We also know that Zoraster's death won't stop his schemes, and his minions are dangerous ones too, but I don't think the urge is all ours. Whatever is sending us these dreams is also pushing us to gain power."

Marlena frowned. "I don't like the idea of being manipulated again -- not at all."

Celes snorted and gathered up the bread. "Neither do I. So, we'll just take a break when Danica gets back and see what happens. If whatever it is tries to stop us, we'll just rebel more. I'm not going to be a pawn for anyone, ever again."

They all heard Andrea's stomach rumbling, even over the sound of dishes clanking and the fires burning in the stove.

All three women laughed, and Celes said, "Let's get the table set."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica stepped out of the Hellgate into the temple of Sekmamun, immediately feeling confused by the dim lighting and unusual silence. After a moment, it dawned on her.

I forgot how far east I am. The sun went down here hours ago. It's probably closer to dawn than dusk. I knew I shouldn't have let myself get distracted by the students tossing their first fireballs.

After the heartfelt, nostalgic conversation with her sister, Danica had been unable to resist watching new workers of Art trying to master their first powerful spell. The sight had taken her back to when she and Devan were in their shoes.

Sighing, Danica wondered what she was going to do until the city started waking. Walking over to the shelves and looking around, she decided that she was far too tired to consider looking for new magic to study. Something caught her eye, and she smiled when she found a map of the nation.

Perfect way to pass the time. I can plan out a route for the trip.

Such was not to be, however, as Danica dozed off shortly after sitting down in front of the map.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Andrea stared hard at the candle, willing the wick to burst into flame. When that didn't work, she took a deep breath and gestured at it, something Celes did most of the time when she used her powers.

Still no luck.

Celes sat quietly next to Andrea, understanding fully the frustration Andrea was feeling. Moving things without teleporting them was Celes' bane. For Andrea, it was her fire power.

A crooked grin crept across Celes' face. Their powers were triggered by their emotions, and Andrea's ability to control fire lay in arousal. When Andrea opened her eyes to stare at the candle again, Celes lay her hand gently on the blonde's thigh and moved it upward.

Andrea gasped, shivering from Celes' touch, and the candle immediately ignited with a pop.

Celes traced the crease of Andrea's thigh, drawing a moan from the woman. Andrea turned toward her raven-haired fellow witch and softly said, "That's cheating. I have to learn to summon up my power, not have it triggered."

"I wasn't trying to help you light the candle," Celes whispered sultrily, "I think we should start our break a little early -- right now, actually." Her finger slipped over Andrea's mound, slowly bunching up the skirt the young woman was wearing.

The candle burned even higher, obvious evidence that Andrea's arousal was building. A moment later, Andrea stood up and gestured, blowing out the candle with her power over the wind. Celes stood with her, and then followed only a step behind as Andrea walked back to her room.

"It's getting a little warm in here," Celes said when they both reached the bed, the temperature slowly, but steadily rising.

"I guess this is a good test for controlling my powers then," Andrea replied, offering a coquettish smile. "I wish Danica was here, though."

"We'll make it up to her," Celes whispered, and then leaned in to kiss the beautiful young woman.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

C'seka snarled in frustration. He had felt the portal open, and he could sense the woman from the moment she stepped inside of it. Then the focus of the portal changed -- and it vanished from the demon's senses.

His claws dug into his palms as he fumed, but he slowly mastered the anger. Another would open a Hellgate soon, perhaps even this one, and he would learn more.

As his fury drained away, C'seka considered another curious development, his growing identification with the male gender. Such things were meaningless to his kind, as they took on whatever shape proved useful, and did not procreate. They were born with a new Hellgate, and died with its master. Such appeared no longer to be the case. Being pulled into the real world had changed much for C'seka.

He sensed that even more changes were to come.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

I hope you've enjoyed this first chapter of Book II in Danica's trilogy. Please take a moment to vote/comment, as that is the bread and butter of a free author — it's what keeps us writing!

Big thanks to Roust Writer for his editing. I don't know how I got along without his keen eye, quick wit, and insight.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 02



Author's Notes:

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission. © Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline. For those who've already read Danica, welcome back to my world.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Danica?"

Danica sat up abruptly, wincing and yelping as pins and needles shot through her arm which had been under her head as she slept slumped over the table. It took a few moments of shaking her head and rubbing her tingling arm, before she remembered where she was, and realized someone was standing beside her. "I guess I was more tired than I thought."

"It would appear so," Harkhuf chuckled. He gestured to the map Danica had fallen asleep studying, and the notes on a scrap of paper next to it. "You will travel through the desert?"

"I need to get to the capital, and I've never been there. I could use the Hellgate, but I think it would probably take just as long to do that as it would to just go by normal means, and I want to be out of the city as quickly as possible," Danica explained. She raised her arms over her head, stretching her stiff muscles and yawning as she finished. When her eyes opened, she saw that Harkhuf's eyes were drawn to her uplifted breasts.

He smiled and said, "Pleasant memories, which I hope some day to renew. I can offer you an alternative, unless you simply wish to see the wonder of the desert sands."

"I'm not that taken with seeing the scenery, at least not right now. The quicker I can get to the capital, the better. It would be me, and two others."

Harkhuf made a dismissive gesture. "This is no difficulty. There is a portal here, linked to the temple of Sekmamun in the capital. We are but a step away, and numbers have no meaning."

"Can anyone go through this portal? The two I need to take with me aren't students of magic."

"So long as I accompany you to the portal, this is unimportant," Harkhuf replied.

"Good, this will help a lot. I was worried about the trip across the desert, but I didn't really see any alternative." Danica stood up from her chair, wincing again as circulation started flowing through her legs.

Helping her to rise, Harkhuf remarked, "I would think that one of your magical power would find such a desert trek of little concern."

"It isn't the desert I'm worried about, it's who might be coming after me," Danica sighed, bending to rub her legs.

"Then I am pleased to aid you in eliminating that worry. I sense your urgency, so I will be ready to accompany you as soon as you are prepared. I have lodgings in the capital, and they are available to you, should you need them."

Danica's expression brightened. This was turning out far better than she would have ever anticipated. "I don't know how to thank you, Harkhuf, this means a lot to me." Noticing his robe tenting below the waist, Danica pursed her lips in amusement, and then winked. "I suppose I might be able to come up with a proper way to repay you, which wouldn't exactly be unpleasant for me either."

The priest actually blushed, which caused Danica to laugh. He covered his embareassment by saying, "Although no repayment is required, I would be a great fool to refuse such a wonderful gift as that."

Danica's passions surged to a bonfire within her, and she was on the verge of offering the repayment before the service, but managed to get her hot blood under control. "When I return. I'm afraid for Tari and Rekhmire. I want to get them somewhere safe, as soon as possible." Her words were still filled with overtones of passion, which she could not stifle.

"Then I shall pray for the quick completion of your task," Harkhuf responded with a lusty grin. "Go, fetch those for whom you fear, and we shall see them to safe haven immediately."

"I'll be back soon."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Peeking into the open door of Celes' room, Marlena frowned when she found the room empty. She had awakened a little late, and the girls would be up soon. It would already take a great deal of luck to finish breakfast in time, if she could find Celes and Andrea to help.

Andrea's door was also slightly ajar, so Marlena decided to check there before moving on to the lab and tower. Leaning in the door, she found the two women lying intertwined, sound asleep. What bedclothes remained on the bed were a rumpled mess, most of the coverings scattered on the floor – along with the two women's clothing.

Not wanting to disturb them, but knowing she would never be able to prepare breakfast for them all alone, Marlena sighed and stepped into the room. "Andrea, Celes – it's Marlena."

Celes shifted a little and moaned, rolling over on her back out of Andrea's arms. It took a moment to register that someone else was in the room, but Celes started when the sleep-fog in her head finally evaporated enough. Reaching for the blankets, she found it impossible to get ahold of anything that would actually cover her, and finally gave up.

Feeling Celes moving about, Andrea awakened as well. She sat up and stretched, covering up her mouth as she yawned. Her eyes popped wide open when the amount of light pouring through the window revealed the time of day. "Oh dear, how late is it?"

"Very," Marlena answered. "We need to get something started for breakfast soon."

Stretching as well, Celes winced slightly. "I'm all knotted up." After a short pause, she added, "And sticky. We probably both should at least rinse off some. Why don't you get some water going for gruel, and we'll get out there after a quick wash."

"It's called porridge, Celes," Andrea argued, and then laughed.

"It's gruel. That's about all we'll be able to manage in time, though. Sorry, Marlena."

"I overslept too, although I don't think I had so good a reason," Marlena teased, offering a crooked smile.

Celes laughed, "Well now, that's a new attitude from you."

Marlena explained, "I'm not as uncomfortable as I used to be, and..."

Andrea guessed, "And you're feeling neglected?"

Marlena blushed, as she nodded her head to indicate Andrea was right. "I'll go get the water heating."

"We'll get out there as soon as we can," Celes said, swinging her legs over the edge of the bed.

Andrea leaned over and kissed the back of Celes' neck, "That was wonderful, Celes. I meant to tell you last night, but I don't even remember falling asleep."

Celes shivered and reached back to run her fingers through Andrea's golden tresses. "I don't either, and you're right, it was wonderful. I think the fact that I'm sticky to the knees says that well enough. Did you have a dream?"

Andrea slid to the other side of the bed, standing up and stretching again before she answered. "No, not that I remember."

"Of course, as soon as we're watching for them, we don't have any. Let's get washed up and go help Marlena."

Andrea walked over to the tub, touching the runes to fill it. "Am I terribly naughty to hope that Marlena stays in her current frame of mind?"

Celes laughed as she looked around for her clothing. She made a dismissive gesture, deciding to just come back for it after breakfast. "Probably, but at least you're not alone."

Andrea's sensual moan sent an electric tingle all through Celes' body. The blonde turned back to Celes and asked, "How long do you think Danica will be?"

The tone of Andrea's voice told Celes beyond a shadow of a doubt what was on Andrea's mind. "Not too long, I hope, now that you've got me thinking about that."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica's eyes widened as they exited the portal. The room they stepped into now was easily five times the size of the one that they had just left. Numerous portals lined the walls, and another group of people utilized one of those doors to leave the room just as Danica and the others entered.

Harkhuf chuckled, seeing the wonder in Danica's eyes. He expected the surprise from the couple that accompanied her, but he had not expected Danica's astonishment.

Danica asked, "Do they all go to temples of Sekmamun?"

"To every temple of Sekmamun," Harkhuf replied. "This is one of the god's gifts to his followers, we may all converse in person, whenever we wish."

"This temple must be enormous – larger than the palace in Beniopolis, if I have to guess from the size of this room," Danica mused, stopping with her count when she reached twenty portals along the walls, which was not even half the number of the faintly glowing doorways.

"Indeed it is," Harkhuf acknowledged. "Such would be a great affront, were not the palace here ten times the size as well. Our temple is not the largest in the city, nor the smallest."

Hathortari shook her head, a slight frown darkening her dusky features, "So much effort, for a simple home, when people starve in the villages."

Harkhuf sighed, and walked over to lay a comforting hand on Tari's shoulder. "You speak a great and sad truth of our land. We assist where we may, as do others who follow the gods – and Pharoah puts forth token efforts – but still, many struggle to survive. We must maintain appearances, in order to maintain our standing. Such is simply the nature of our land, and though we work for change, it will take some time."

"You speak openly for a priest, even to we who were slaves and lowborn," Rekhmire observed, approval showing in his slight smile.

Harkhuf smiled at the young man, "In this, we work for change as well. The people, all the people, should be allowed a place in the temples. The inner sanctuaries must remain sacred to the priesthood, but some amongst us struggle to provide a nave for the common people, regardless of their birth."

Stepping toward the only non-magical doorway in the room, Harkhuf gestured and said, "Come, we must leave soon. Unfortunately, reform is slower to take hold here than in the outer reaches of our land. Before we go, however, I would show you all a sight of wonder."

Though the hallway through which they walked was obviously a simple cooridor, and not a sacred part of the temple, the walls and ceiling were still extensively decorated. Remarkably, the entire ceiling was dotted all along the way with stars that appeared to be real silver. The glint of gold and gems also winked from the reliefs within the walls. Danica couldn't imagine how much it had all cost to do, or how much more ornate the main part of the temple must be.

"I am uncomfortable here," Tari remarked, folding her arms before her protectively. "I feel as though there are eyes upon me."

Harkhuf turned to look at Tari with surprise obvious in his eyes as they continued to walk. "Have you ever studied magic? Did your family perhaps revere Sekmamun as a patron?"

Hathortari's voice betrayed distrust as she replied, "I do not know. I was but a small child when I was taken, and sold into slavery."

Raising his hand in an apologetic gesture to his forehead, Harkhuf said, "Please, I do not mean to offend. What you describe is much the same as the sensation I feel every day within the temple. You need not be afraid. If this is what you feel, it means that Sekmamun finds you pleasing, and that is sure to lead to blessings in your life."

"These eyes I feel do not feel threatening, but it is still uncomfortable," Tari responded with a less guarded tone.

They neared some branches and doorways in the hall as Harkhuf said, "Perhaps in time, you will feel less uncomfortable. Ah, here are the stairs. Please, follow me."

The stairs were just as well appointed as the hallway. Danica spoke up, saying, "I don't feel anything when I'm in the temple."

"Only a few who work magic will notice it. It is a call to service, and your destiny obviously leads elsewhere, Danica," Harkhuf explained.

The distrust returned to Tari's voice when she asked, "And you believe my destiny lies where, priest of Sekmamun?"

"Where you wish it to, Hathortari. I believe Sekmamun is offering you a new choice, however."

Light appeared above them, still a great distance away. The distance from where they entered the stairs to the light above gave Danica a good idea of just how tall the temple must be. That judgement let her know it was grand on more than one scale.

They continued in silence, Rehkmire taking Tari's hand to comfort her, and Harkhuf sensing Tari's need to avoid the subject of what she sensed for now. The light grew brighter, and larger, as they neared its source. When at last they reached it, Harkhuf stepped through the portal and gestured for them to step onto the balcony with him.

Danica ascended the final steps and gasped as she beheld the vista before her. The city spread for what looked like miles along the banks of the river, magnificent temples sprouting from amongst uncountable numbers of houses. Farther from the river, there were more temples, enormous sculptures the size of buildings, and pyramids. The pyramids were so immense, they appeared to be truly reaching for the heavens. It boggled Danica's mind to comprehend the amount of men and hours that had to have been spent on constructing those massive monuments.

Harkhuf swept his hand across the horizon, saying, "Welcome to the holy city of Osiramun!"

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ashley removed the weights from the corners, and rolled the map on the table carefully. Tying a ribbon around it, she took it to a shelf, returning it to its place. Reaching into another niche, she removed another map, returning to the table.

Sitting down, Ashley unrolled the map, a closer view of the location her scrying with the previous map had indicated. Weighing down the corners, she sat back, and took a deep breath. Running her fingers through her thick mane of hair, the falling strands revealed their dark red color. Appearing almost black in low light, or from a distance, the unusual shade of her hair never failed to turn heads once someone noticed it. That reaction could be both a blessing, and a curse. Quite often, Ashley wished she could blend into the background, and her hair was but one attribute that made that difficult.

You're stalling, Ashley, she silently scolded herself. Taking another deep breath, she pushed away her doubts and fears. Someone had to stop the creatures, and few possessed the power to do so.

She had to act.

Picking up the scrying crystal, dipped in the blood of a demon, Ashley set it to spinning over the map. Soon enough, she would know where to find the Demon Lord, Mekataur, his minions – and his spawn.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Standing on the balcony, continuing to drink in the scene, Danica mused, "It's amazing. I didn't think this many people could live together in one place."

"All built on the back of slaves," Tari sighed.

Harkhuf shook his head. "Only indirectly, though that is no better. The actual construction is always done by paid, native workers. A slave has no reason to excel in their work, save fear. Those who built these structures did so to please the gods. It is because of the many slaves in our land that such is possible, however. Without the slaves to take on other tasks, we would not have enough able-bodied men to undertake such grand projects."

Hathortari turned to Harkhuf, respect showing in her eyes, "I believe you truly do seek change."

Harkhuf smiled, his perfect, white teeth a sharp contrast against his dusky skin. "Yes, and I am far from alone, especially amongst the priesthood. The ruling class resists the change, as do some of the elders in the temples, but it will come to pass, in time."

"I knew there was a reason I liked you," Danica said, with a wink at Harkhuf. Pointing at the largest, most splendid structure she could see, Danica asked, "Is that the palace?"

Harkhuf nodded, and replied, "Yes, that is the central structure. Many of the surrounding buildings are actually part of the palace complex, however. Pharaoh usually has many wives, and children – in addition to the numerous advisors, and hangers on – and so requires a great deal of space. Nearly every Pharaoh adds to the complex, and the main temple to his living godhood."

"It is beautiful," Tari admitted, feeling more comfortable after Harkhuf revealed the forces for change within the nation.

"Yes, it is. Thank you for showing us, Harkhuf," Danica added.

"I admit a little vanity," Harkhuf chuckled, "I was born here, and I am proud of my birthplace. Come, we should go to my home here in the city, so you may settle in."

Glancing down at the building below her, Danica said, "I suppose you're right. It will probably take us hours just to get out of the temple."

Harkhuf laughed. "It will indeed take us some time, especially since we must take the long way, avoiding the inner sanctuaries. We will be forced to fend for ourselves upon reaching my home, as well. I have no full-time servants. I do have well-appointed baths, however."

Danica purred upon hearing that. "You are such a dear – dear man. Let's get going. I hear a bath calling me."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

With the girls fed, and now under Marlena's watchful eye, Andrea and Celes returned to their studies. Celes flipped a page in her mother's book, and came across something interesting. "Look at this, Andrea."

Andrea glanced over at Celes' book, and let out a little giggle. She pushed her own book of family spells over toward Celes, showing her that they were both reading nearly identical entries, both on scrying.

Laughing, Celes asked, "Do you think that's a sign?"

"Perhaps," Andrea agreed, adding, "It would certainly be a useful skill. I think we could use a break from struggling with the parts of our powers that don't want to behave, too."

"I have an idea about that, but let's give scrying a try. I think I have some crystals somewhere in my spell components. I'll go fetch us one." Celes stood up from her chair.

Andrea stood as well, and said, "I think I have a chain we could attach it to. It used to have this big, gaudy stone in it, and we might be able to get a crystal to fit in it."

"Good idea," Celes agreed. "I'll be right back."

Both women went to their chambers, retrieving what they needed, and returned to the study at the same time. They crystal and chain proved to be a perfect match, and within only a couple of minutes, they had a proper tool to scry with.

Celes saw that the same spell to bless the crystal was in both books, so she said, "Do you want to do it, or should I?"

Shrugging her shoulders, and smiling, Andrea said, "Why don't we do it together? From what I've read, that should make it stronger."

"I think I vaguely remember my mother saying something like that, too. The more witches who bless an object, the more powerful it is. Good idea. Are you ready?"

Andrea nodded, and they both held up the crystal by its chain. "I'll tap my foot three times, and we start on the third tap," Celes instructed. When Andrea nodded her understanding, Celes tapped, and then the pair repeated the spell of blessing.

To pierce through the darkness –
That it may no more conceal –
This crystal now bless –
The lost to reveal.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 02



A faint point of green light appeared within the crystal, slowly expanding outward until the glow permeated the entire pendant. When the light ebbed, Celes remarked, "Well, something happened. It must have worked."

Andrea jingled the chain, and said, "Only one way to find out. What should we scry for?"

Celes smiled slyly, "Not what – who."

"Danica," Andrea laughed. "I'll get a map."

Marlena slid to a halt in the hall outside the door, grabbing the doorframe to help arrest her momentum. "I need a little help!"

Andrea asked, "What's wrong?"

"Twelve girls in the process of trying to kill each other," Marlena explained, gesturing impatiently, and hurrying back out the door.

"Looks like the scrying is going to have to wait," Celes laughed, putting down the crystal and heading quickly toward the door.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

High atop the crumbling battlements of Nightmare Castle, the Demon Lord Meckataur stood within the heart of a violent thunderstorm. His senses were far away, however, seeing through the eyes – and into the minds – of his demonic servants.

As if even the very sky rejected him, a stroke of electrical fury ripped through Meckataur's body. Not a single muscle in his purple-gray hide even twitched. The Devil's forked tongue ran over his razor-sharp teeth, as he absorbed the information his minions had gathered.

The desert elves possessed almost no magic. What little arcane energy they did utilize went entirely to sustaining their lives in the harsh climate of the desert. A banquet awaited Meckataur, when the time was right. He desired far more than to simply devour their flesh, and the signs were not yet in order.

A barely audible shout sounded from a doorway. Having what he needed now, Meckataur pulled back in his consciousness. The voice registered in his mind then, and he turned toward Arleen.

"Master, the female has transcended," Arleen informed him.

A low, rumbling growl erupted from Meckataur. "Bring her to the Great Hall."

"Yes, Master," Arleen responded, and vanished back into the portal, which slammed shut from the force of the wind.

The sound of the door banging closed had not even reached Meckataur before he vanished, reappearing in a roar of flame within the Great Hall. Standing high atop the dais at the head of the room, the Devil awaited the arrival of his spawn.

The moment Arleen entered with his progeny, a deep, wicked chuckle erupted from Meckataur. The female sauntering forward next to Arleen was dressed in a form fitting gown, which both revealed and concealed in a perfect balance. Drawing in a great breath, Meckataur could smell the female's scent, even from across the room. His loins stirred, and he knew any mortal would be mad with desire, immediately upon tasting her scent on the wind.

As she drew nearer, Meckataur could see the rosy glow of the female's full lips, and cheeks. More interesting to Meckataur were her eyes, however. The bright green orbs shone with a pinpoint of crimson fury, the sign of her transcendence.

Reaching the foot of the dais, the female fell to her knees, prostrating herself on the floor. When she looked back up, she said, "I have come, as you ordered, Sire," her voice a sultry whisper.

"What is your name," Meckataur rumbled, moving down the dais, his claws clicking on the stone.

"Delilah, Sire."

"Rise," Meckataur ordered.

Delilah stood, her every movement filled with grace, and designed to entice. Reaching out with one clawed hand, Meckataur held it before her body, tasting her powers.

The first was obvious, even without reaching within her – the seductive qualities that formed the core of her being. Deeper within, he found her more destructive powers. Delilah would be able to slowly sap the will – and the lifeforce – of her victims with her touch, leaving them none the wiser, until it was far too late. She also possessed the common ability to hurl fireballs, and the potential to absorb powers from other beings that died by her hands.

Lowering his hand, Meckataur growled, a satisfied – and yet terrifying – sound. "Hide the evidence of your power," he commanded.

Instantly, the miasma of arousing scents dimmed, as did the spot of burning red in Delilah's eyes. Appearing now to be nothing more than a very attractive female human, she would blend in perfectly with society.

"Master," came a call from the entrance of the Great Hall. Looking up, Meckataur saw Mopario approaching. The Devil's muzzle split into a grin when he saw the cleric leading yet another of the demonic spawn into the Hall.

The process was much the same, revealing the newly transcended demon's name to be Thanatos. The male possessed the touch of death, able to either snuff out life instantly, or to cause it to slowly fade. His touch could likewise cause – or reverse – decomposition in a corpse. Magic burned brightly in Thanatos' blood, and the demon had already chosen to wear the robes of a magic user.

"We must find them places amongst the mortals," Meckataur rumbled.

The defenses, and sentries – both demonic and dead – screamed to Meckataur, but Ebonar's voice arose at the same moment as the warning. Walking into the Hall, Ebonar said, "I believe I can be of assistance, in that regard."

"You dare much, Ebonar," Meckataur growled.

The faintest hints of a smile touched Ebonar's lips. Meckataur using his name indicated a level of respect that the Devil showed few mortals who did not serve him directly. "Perhaps, Demon Lord, but I have an offer, which should offset any offense on my part."

"Speak," Meckataur demanded.

"I see that Thanatos wears the robes of a wizard. If I am correct in assuming that is not a mere affectation, then I will take him into my school, where he will have access to boundless amounts of magic. He will have the opportunity to learn of mankind, and I will be able to cover up any lapses in judgement, which might reveal his nature before you desire it."

Meckataur's eyes narrowed, and he growled, "Go on."

"I can certainly find a place for Delilah as well, and I am likewise prepared to conceal any indiscretions she might perpetrate, in her youthful exuberance," Ebonar finished.

Knowing that the man did nothing out of kindness, Meckataur asked Ebonar, "What is your gain?"

Waving his hand in a dismissive gesture, Ebonar replied, "Quite simple, really. Your power will help me set fire to this world, and your progeny will help you to do so. In assisting you, I assist myself. I simply offer to hasten their education, while concealing their nature."

Meckataur stared hard at the handsome, powerfully built wizard for a few moments. "I do not doubt there is more, but your offer is acceptable."

Clapping his hands, Ebonar exclaimed, "Excellent! I can, of course, provide the same service for your other progeny. I will establish permanent gates for each of them, from wherever within my sphere of influence I place them, so that they can return here instantly. I trust our other mutually beneficial pact is working out well, with the Gate demon?"

Thinking of the desert elves, who would soon fall before the scythe of his rage, Meckataur let out a hissing chuckle, and replied, "I find the results satisfactory."

Ebonar smiled. "Excellent. I will take steps at once to prepare, and then seek you out when I am ready to receive your progeny." With that, Ebonar vanished from the Hall.

Meckataur stared at the spot Ebonar had just vacated. The Demon Lord knew there was more to Ebonar's offer than that which the man stated, but held no reservations about the deal. It accomplished Meckataur's goals, and the man couldn't possibly be any threat to the Devil himself. Ebonar obviously had no idea that he was about to assist in preparing the means of his own eventual death.

"Fool," Meckataur rumbled, and then his voice filled the room with guttural, mocking laughter.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica pulled on her clothing, a gown of light linen, and walked out the door of the bath house. Gesturing over her head with her shoulder, she said, "Your turn, Tari."

Hathortari smiled, and picked up her bundle of clothing. She moved swiftly toward the bath, just as eager for the pleasure as Danica had been.

Walking up to her host, Danica stood on her tiptoes and kissed his cheek. "Thank you, Harkhuf. I really needed that."

"You are quite welcome, Danica. I believe I can offer you assistance in another area, as well."

Danica shook out her still-damp hair, and then turned her gaze back to Harkhuf. "Oh?"

Harkhuf smiled. "As I mentioned, I have no servants on retainer here. I would be quite pleased for Hathortari and Rekhmire to serve in that capacity, if they are willing. My domicile is protected against many magics, and I believe they would be quite safe here. It would save you the effort of approaching Pharaoh's sons."

"That would be perfect," Danica responded. "I still think I'm going to see if I can get in the palace, though. I'd like to see if I can locate any of Zoraster's agents there, and warn the Royal family to be on the lookout. Maybe I can block some of his efforts here, if I stop them soon enough."

"As you wish, Danica. I will send messages to the palace for you, when you are ready." Turning to Rekhmire, Harkhuf asked, "So, how do you find my offer? I will offer exactly what you received previously, if not more. I will be using this house more frequently soon, and I would like to have competent people caring for it."

"If Hathortari has no objections, I have none," Rekhmire responded.

"Excellent! I shall ask her when she has finished her bath."

Danica chuckled. "You're cheating. She's already going to be in a good mood when she comes out of there."

Harkhuf winked, but said nothing.

Danica laughed, and then said, "I'm going to go pen a letter to Pharaoh's eldest son. I hope he's in the mood for a dance."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Andrea's face burned bright red. She carried one of the toys, made for her by Danica, which had been the object of the hair-pulling brawl amongst the girls. One of them had slipped into her room, and taken it. The rest felt they weren't getting their turns soon enough.

"We may have to do something about that," Celes said. "We've got to face facts – it's going to take them time to moderate the lust Zoraster instilled in them. I think we may need to sit down and make each of them a toy of their own. That might keep them from tangling with each other quite so much. Taking care of their own needs isn't a bad thing, but just jumping into bed with anyone who strikes their fancy could be."

Marlena pursed her lips for a moment, and then said, "I think you're right. We should wait until Danica gets back, though. She's far better at that than any of us."

Celes let out a little grunt, and nodded. "I'm learning, but I'll never have half the skill Danica does. We'll let her take the lead when she gets back." Turning to Andrea, Celes slapped the blonde playfully and said, "Oh, stop blushing."

"I don't know how they knew I had it," Andrea explained.

"I wouldn't put it past them to have simply been snooping while we studied," Celes said.

"They knew the command words," Andrea disagreed.

Celes' eyes widened. "You're right. That means they... Oh, I guess you can keep blushing then."

"Celes!"

Celes laughed. "I'm sorry, Andrea. They're curious. You remember what it was like. I know it's strange – believe me. I've had my own shivers thinking about some of the things Selena has said to me, and the looks the girls give us on occasion."

"They'll get there," Marlena interjected. "I can already tell that they're losing some of that unnatural lust. We'll teach them, and they'll be fine."

Looking out a window as they passed, Celes said, "Our first try at scrying is going to have to wait again. If we don't get cooking, we'll be making stew again. The girls will surely protest that."

The other two women nodded, and they all headed toward the kitchen.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Tari having agreed to Harkhuf's offer, Danica now discussed some additional safeguards she planned to implement, while everyone sipped fruit juice. A knock on the door prompted Harkhuf to rise and answer it. When he closed the door, he turned with a smile back to Danica. "It would seem you made quite an impression upon the sons of Pharaoh."

Harkhuf held out a letter, affixed with the royal seal, and Danica rose to take it. Breaking the seal, she read the letter with a chuckle. "I guess you're right. I'm welcome to come dance any time I wish, day or night. It says that instructions to let me in immediately upon my arrival, and escort me to the proper place have already been arranged."

Harkhuf asked, "You will go soon, then?"

Danica nodded. "Tonight, I think. I want to get everything out of the way, so I can relax a bit before I go home. They aren't expecting me for days, and I think I could use a break from all the studying I've been doing."

"Should you require anything, I am at your disposal," Harkhuf said, bowing his head slightly.

Danica considered for a moment, shrugged, and said, "I think I have something appropriate to dance in, and I'm sure they'll have musicians there, so I guess about all I need is transportation to the palace."

"Easily done," Harkhuf responded with a wide smile.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica felt somewhat self-conscious when she stepped out of the opulent canopied chair Harkhuf had arranged to convey her to the palace. The bearers stood in silence, awaiting her return. She could have chosen to be carried all the way to where she would dance, but preferred to walk. Being carried around like royalty made her feel odd.

"This way," Danica's guide instructed. The man had apparently known of her arrival long before she reached the palace. When she nodded, he started off deeper into the building.

As magnificent as the temple of Sekmamun was in this city, the palace made it look like a pauper's shack. Every surface was carved in bas relief, with the glint of silver, gold, and gemstones everywhere. Magnificent statuary greeted her around every corner, as well as servants, who moved no more than the statues to Danica's eye, unless about a task.

Her guide led Danica into a room, which obviously served as a waiting area for performers. There were curtained niches for dressing, and numerous couches and chairs spaced about the room.

Picking up a bundle from a table, Danica's guide turned, and handed it to her. "It is requested that you wear this for your dance, if it pleases you."

"Thank you, I think I can take it from here," Danica informed him.

Bowing, the man backed out of the room, pulling the curtain door shut behind him.

Opening the bundle, Danica smiled with amused surprise. The gown was translucent, and would do little to cover her body. Golden threads trimmed the sleeves, neckline, and hem. An image of the goddess Tayetet, whom everyone said Danica resembled, was likewise embroidered upon the gown in golden threads.

Danica stripped off her clothing, put on the gown, and then looked into a mirror. She smiled when she saw that the goddess' arms, uplifted in dance, appeared to be supporting her breasts. The feet of the goddess appeared to be pointing at her sex. Both of those physical attributes were well displayed by the gown.

Danica also found bracelets and anklets, each with several small chimes attached. Finally, she removed silver earrings, each with an emerald set at the point of piercing, and a tiny silver bell hanging from a delicate chain below. Putting on the jewelry, Danica tinkled the various bells, noting that they each had a unique tone, making her every movement into music.

Experimenting with a few moves, Danica determined that the sons of Pharaoh had obviously paid very close attention to her last dance. As she moved through the practiced steps, she found that the chimes blended in perfectly with the melody of the song in her head. She couldn't imagine how long it must have taken to perfect the making and arrangement of the little bells.

Danica took a few minutes to stretch, preparing for the workout she was about to get. The last thing she needed was a muscle cramp in the middle of her dance. When she felt she was ready, Danica passed through a doorway, into the room beyond.

In addition to the sons of Pharaoh, Danica found a troupe of musicians, and many women in the room. Danica had no way of knowing if the women were wives to the men, or blood relatives, but their dress marked them as highborn, for certain.

The eldest sibling spoke for the group. "We are most pleased that you have chosen to grace us once again with a dance. Our sisters and wives have joined us, that they might see this wonder, and perhaps emulate it."

Danica curtsied graciously. "I'm happy to dance for you, and I like this," Danica said, sliding her hands down her body to indicate the gown.

"It is yours. Should you wish to dance for us again, at a later time, I will have another made. Each will be unique."

"Are you trying to get me to dance for you every day?" Danica asked with a sly smile, drawing a ripple of laughter from everyone in the room.

"I would not be displeased by that outcome," the spokesman for the audience informed her.

Danica winked, and then tinkled one of the bracelets on her arm. "I can tell you've put a lot of work into these, so I will perform the same dance, to the same music, as my last."

"I thought you would notice," the son of Pharaoh said, smiling broadly. "The musicians know the music well, as I have them practice it daily."

Danica took her place at the center of the room, and the musicians prepared their instruments. Just as the troupe started to play, the entire room ceased all activity, bowing respectfully toward the back of the room. Not knowing what was going on, but certainly not wanting to give offense, Danica did likewise.

"Rise," commanded a strong voice.

Danica looked up at the same time as everyone else, to see two people had entered the room. One Danica knew had to be Pharaoh, because she recognized the unique crown he wore from numerous carvings depicting Pharaohs, past and present.

The other worried Danica more, because she recognized him as well. She had encountered the man rarely, but knew him to be a minion of Zoraster's. Though the wizard was dressed in native clothing, his features marked him as a foreigner for certain.

Reaching out with her mind, Danica silently cursed, when she saw in his thoughts that the wizard recognized her as well.

"My sons have spoken highly of your dance, and I too see your resemblance to the goddess. I would see your dance," Pharaoh said, taking the seat his oldest son immediately vacated.

As the siblings moved about, adjusting to the new seating order by rank, Danica curtsied and said, "I would be pleased to dance for you, revered Pharaoh."

The ruler of the land nodded, and Danica took her place once more, raising her arms to indicate she was ready to dance. The musicians struck up the tune, and Danica danced.

As she whirled, moving amongst the gathered audience, Danica noticed Zoraster's minion watching her, cold calculation in his eyes. Danica put him out of her mind, when she nearly forgot the next series of movements, concentrating on her dance. The vague impressions of a plan were coming to her, and no matter what, impressing Pharaoh with her dance figured strongly in those plans.

Concentrating her efforts, and her most erotic movements, on Pharaoh, she had good opportunity to observe him. Considering the age of his sons, he had obviously started quite young – and aged well. Though he surely had to be in at least his fifties – more likely sixties – he looked like a man of forty. He was also quite handsome, and Danica couldn't help but notice that amongst a room full of kilts tenting, his rose the tallest.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 02



That thought sparked Danica's arousal, and added energy to her dance. As her excitement built, so too did the magic of the Awakening, affecting those around her.

Though careful not to touch Pharaoh, as she was unsure whether that would be considered an offense, Danica made sure she was frequently close enough to do so. She had little doubt that he could taste the scent of her building arousal in the air, as she whirled around him.

She finished her dance, as she had before with his son, kneeling at Pharaoh's feet, looking up sultrily into his eyes. As before, she could easily see beneath his kilt, where the man's erection held it high away from his body.

Danica rose to the banging, stomping form of applause that was the norm of this land, sauntering back to the center of the room. She turned with a whip of her auburn hair, curtsying to the Pharaoh, and licking her lips.

"The words of my sons are well founded," Pharaoh said.

Acting on impulse, Danica sent her thoughts to the Pharaoh. Instead of words, she sent impressions of desire, and of them being alone. It was something she had never tried before, and she found that it required a tremendous amount of effort. Being subtle was far more difficult than simply speaking into someone's mind. Her goal was to push him toward an end, letting him think the idea was entirely his own.

Danica was pleased to notice that her gentle nudges were not far from the Pharaoh's own thoughts. His sons had spoken of far more than her dance, and her mental urging pushed him toward a desire to experience that, as well.

"Leave us," Pharaoh ordered, and Danica couldn't help but smile, seeing the decision form in the man's mind.

Everyone in the room rose immediately, heading toward the nearest exit that was appropriate for their rank. Only one man hesitated, and for only a moment. Had not Danica been watching circumspectly for his reaction, she never would have noticed it. Zoraster's agent left the room, but he was not happy about it. A touch of Danica's mind confirmed that without a doubt.

Walking forward, letting her hips sway, Danica said, "Do you wish a private dance, Pharaoh? It may be more difficult without the musicians, but I believe I can accommodate you."

This was a means to an ends, but in truth, Danica's arousal was reaching an undeniable level. She'd been neglecting that part of her for some time, and allowing it to come forth in her dance had awakened it. Her control over the Awakening was limited at best, and the combination of factors this evening simply overwhelmed them. Danica needed satisfaction – now – and attaining it could serve her in other ways as well. She needed to neutralize Zoraster's minion – Clexis, if she remembered his name correctly – before he had a chance to stumble on Tari and Rekhmire. She also needed to know if there were other agents within the palace, and to warn the ruling family to be on the lookout. In her experience, men were often far more open to the suggestions of a woman while lying spent next to them, and she planned to take advantage of that.

"My sons spoke of other skills you possess," Pharaoh said with a smile.

Danica arched her back slightly, which presented her breasts in a prominent manner, as she took the final few steps toward him. Letting out a sensual little moan, Danica said, "Your sons are not without skills of their own, Pharaoh. Are those talents perhaps in their blood?"

"Perhaps you should be the judge of that," he suggested, his erection twitching beneath the kilt covering it in anticipation.

Leaning down close to him, Danica said in a breathless whisper, "Perhaps I should." She lay her hands on his legs then, letting her thumbs slide over his thighs, at the hem of his kilt.

When Pharaoh smiled in response, Danica caught the fabric between her thumb and fingers, lifting it away from his manhood. She purred upon seeing him revealed, his length and girth everything the tented fabric had suggested.

Kneeling down, Danica pushed his knees apart, giving her access to him. As soon as her knees touched the polished stone, she leaned forward and lapped the orbs beneath his throbbing shaft. A few teasing tickles followed her first broad-tongued stroke, and then she trailed the tip of her tongue up his considerable length.

Pharaoh let out a contented sigh, locking eyes with Danica, who stared up at him hungrily. She slipped down his foreskin with one hand, running the fingers of the other over the smooth-shaven jewels below, as her tongue continued its journey. When she reached the flared tip, Danica curled her tongue around it for a moment, and then parted her lips.

"Ah," Pharaoh sighed, as Danica's lips closed around him. Danica instantly tasted the bittersweet evidence of pre-cum seeping from him, prompting her to moan around him. She suckled the head, tickling it with her tongue, while stroking his foreskin over the shaft beneath.

Taking him deeper, Danica felt his hand come to rest on the top of her head. Her own need spiked within her, and Danica engulfed him almost to the root, eager to taste the creamy reward of her efforts.

Pharaoh grunted and sighed as Danica's head bobbed over his lap, stroking his member with hot friction. The bells on her wrists and earrings sang out in time with her efforts, forming a pleasing, exciting melody. She tilted her head back and forth each time she pulled back, adding to the stimulation, pausing for a few quick strokes over the head each time, before swallowing him again.

His sounds of pleasure, coupled with the tightening of his balls beneath her fingers, let Danica know he was close. Ceasing any sort of teasing, she sucked him hard and fast, drawing him ever closer to an explosion.

Danica let out a delighted little yelp around him, as he flooded her mouth with his cream. A shuddering sigh slowly escaped Pharaoh, as his shaft continued to pulse, offering her more of his royal seed.

Danica continued to slowly suck him, until he gently pushed her away. She let him slip from her mouth with a pop, and then licked her lips, while looking up into his half-closed eyes.

With a hand that trembled slightly, Pharaoh reached out, plucking at the translucent fabric covering Danica's body. When she moved to stand, he sat back heavily in his chair, watching with rapt attention.

Danica shed the gown, leaving on the tinkling jewelry, and ran her hands over her body, stroking her hips and buttocks. "Did I please you with my mouth, Pharoah?"

"Quite well," Pharaoh sighed. He then reached for a charm around his neck, whispering a few words to it. A few moments later, Danica chuckled, seeing his softening member reverse course, growing hard again.

"I have many wives. Were it not for this magic, I would never be able to attend them all," Pharaoh explained with a grin.

"I'm glad," Danica whispered.

Pharaoh placed his hand on Danica's hip, guiding her to turn. Danica spun around slowly, bending over to give him a good view of her bottom, and her nether lips. He grasped her hips, pulling her toward him.

Reaching between her legs to grasp his shaft, still wet with her saliva, Danica guided it into her, letting out a warbling sigh as she sat down on his thick cock. The sound was echoed by Pharaoh, as he settled into her hot depths.

At first, Danica only rocked her hips, swirling his shaft in her canal, but desire soon overcame her. Putting her hands on his legs, she rose up and stroked her wet heat over him, the tempo increasing with each time their flesh clashed.

Danica slammed her hips down onto him with abandon, lashing her head back and forth in ecstasy. Pharaoh reached around to grasp her breasts, running his fingers over her stiff nipples. After a few strokes of her clenching depths, his hands slipped down to her hips, pulling her back down toward him with every stroke.

Danica's pleasure mounted quickly, spurred on more by her fingers flashing over her clit. It had been far too long, and she was lost in the feeling of her approaching orgasm. It didn't hurt that Pharaoh's considerable cock hit her in all the right spots, stretching her walls with its girth.

With a few closely-spaced, sharp gasps, Danica drew up to the edge, and then tumbled over with a loud scream. Grabbing her hips harder, Pharaoh continued to push and pull her, stroking his member inside her. Danica continued to scream, her hair whipping as her head jerked about, her orgasm maintaining its hold on her.

Pharaoh's breath was hot on Danica's back, his exhales sharp gasps of pleasure. They increased in volume, as did the pressure of his fingers holding her, and then he growled, a warm pool of heat forming in Danica's depths at the same time.

Danica shuddered as he filled her, letting out a long, satisfied moan. She sat on his lap, his twitching member causing her to gasp and clench around him every so often. At last, he could take no more, and pushed on her back, instructing her to release him.

They both cried out as he slipped from her. Danica immediately sank to her knees, as Pharaoh slumped in his chair. She leaned up against his legs for support, panting for breath.

Danica's knees were starting to hurt, and she could feel his semen seeking to escape her a short while later. Raising his hands above his head, Pharaoh clapped in a measured cadence. Immediately, two female servants entered, carrying cloths and a wash basin.

One of the women gathered up cushions, placing them behind Danica. She gratefully lay down on them with a sigh. The other servant knelt before Pharaoh, in Danica's place. The woman who had arranged the cushions for Danica knelt down beside her, and then both servants dipped their cloths in the basin. The woman in front of Danica stared at the dollop of cream welling up from between her nether lips.

Danica noticed the woman's longing gaze at the same time Pharaoh did. "You have proven yourself worthy," Pharaoh said to the woman, whose eyes immediately lit up. Turning to Danica, Pharaoh continued, "This servant has well pleased me, and she seeks my seed as her reward. By reason of her birth station, she knows I shall not lie with her. She may have my seed, through you, however. In this, her child shall attain a station she cannot hope to achieve, and elevate her as well."

More than anything else, it was the final bit of Pharaoh's words that spurred Danica to sit up. If she could raise this woman above her station, just by sharing a little of Pharaoh's semen, that was little to ask. Rising up to her knees, Danica patted the cushions she had been lying on, instructing the servant to lie down.

Once the woman had reclined, Danica pulled up the servant's gown, revealing her body. Keeping her intimate muscles clenched, to prevent the Pharaoh's seed from escaping her, Danica moved over the woman's body. The servant parted her nether lips, panting excitedly.

Danica squatted down lower, bringing her sex into contact with the servant woman's folds. Parting her own labia wide with one hand, Danica rubbed her bud with the other. The buildup of lubrication hastened the slow seeping of Pharaoh's cream from within her. Below, the other woman did the same. The odd intimacy excited Danica, and she was soon building toward climax, sticky streams of semen and her juices dribbling into the other woman's canal.

The serving woman climaxed first, her back arching, pressing her sex hard against Danica's. A moment later, Danica followed, emitting a warbling cry of release as she came.

Danica sat down, getting off her wobbling knees, while the servant pulled her labia tightly closed, as if she feared Pharaoh's seed would escape her, before it had the chance to impregnate her.

The other servant had finished cleaning the Pharaoh by the time, and he silently instructed her to tend to Danica's cleansing. Danica trembled from the woman's touch, as she was still experiencing the lingering touches of her orgasm. The sensation soon calmed, and the servant finished cleaning her.

Seeing the ecstatic glow on the face of the reclining servant, Danica felt a smile creeping across her face. Turning to Pharaoh, she asked, "Has your other servant pleased you well?" She punctuated the statement with a mischievous twitch of her eyebrows.

Pharaoh laughed, the sound warm, and full of genuine amusement. "It has been some time since I have laughed like that," he revealed. "If it would please you to gift her with my seed as well, it would please me to give it to you – very much."

Taking Pharaoh's hand, she requested with a pleading look in her eyes for him to rise. He did so, and she brought his hand up to the charm around his neck, licking her lips at the same time. She then turned, bending over and putting her hands in the seat of his chair, presenting her body to him.

Danica let out a deep moan, as his once again hard cock slipped into her.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Some time later, Danica dozed in the Pharaoh's bed. After he filled her up where she stood, bent over the chair, and she shared with the second servant woman, he had taken her here. The Pharaoh had fallen into exhausted slumber mere moments after reaching his peak that final time.

Danica slowly drifted back down from her climax, and only then realized she'd almost forgotten the reason for the whole thing in her passion. It was too late to speak to the Pharaoh about it now, but Danica knew he would be just as accommodating when he woke up in the morning. For now, she had another mission.

Closing her eyes, Danica lay back flat on the bed, and fell within her mental powers. Concentrating, she sought out Clexis – or rather, his mind. He knew her, and had seen her. She had to do something about that.

Though the hour was late, he was awake, and thinking about her. She was relieved to see in his mind that he had not yet contacted anyone regarding her. Greedy and ambitious, like nearly everyone who served Zoraster's cause, he was trying to think of a way to turn it to his own advantage.

Now that she had him, Danica took a deep breath, though the thought didn't actually translate into physical action. It was more of a mental sensation, because she had fallen fully within her psionic powers now, her body a mere shell to contain them. Summoning up her concentration again, Danica invaded Clexis' mind.

She felt him reeling, and attempting to fight back. The man didn't possess Zoraster's power, or strength of will, and quickly succumbed to Danica's forceful mental attack. His consciousness now beat down, his phsyical form lying on the floor where he had fallen, Clexis was powerless to stop Danica.

Repeating the process she had used during her final battle with Zoraster, Danica sifted through the wizard's memories. She started with the most recent ones, shattering them with mental blasts. He now would remember nothing of her visit here. Unsatisfied with that, she moved deeper into the vault of his mind.

Shattering memory after memory, Danica erased every shard of knowledge the man possessed about her. When she could no longer locate any recollection of her, Danica moved on to see what he knew.

Zoraster's plan here was simple, to prey upon the natural vanity and sense of superiority in the ruling class, and exploit it to his advantage. The intended goal was to goad the nation into war with surrounding nations, adding to the chaos of a global conflict. Clexis had recruited people from amongst the locals, bringing none of his own people with him. Their current progress was minimal, but moving steadily apace.

Determining that none other would recognize her, thus neutralizing the danger to Tari and Rekhmire, Danica withdrew from his mind. She could expose Clexis' agents easily enough now.

Taking a deep breath and opening her eyes, Danica smiled. Clexis would no longer be a threat to her or hers. She doubted he would be a threat to this nation either, once she finished speaking to Pharaoh in the morning. Curling up next to him, she contemplated whether she should give him a wake up call with her mouth, to further open his mind to what she had to say.

As she dozed off, she knew she would do it, even though she also knew it would be largely unnecessary. It certainly couldn't hurt, and the thought made Danica's mouth water.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The crystal came down on Ashley's map, and she now knew exactly where the demons lurked. Putting away her maps, and scrying crystal, Ashley went to her family book, seeking a spell she knew was within. She needed to know the nature, and powers, of the demons that awaited her. The strength with which her scrying crystal had been pulled to the map already worried her. It was quite possible that more than one powerful demon awaited her there, or many weaker demons. Either way, it might be more than she could possibly deal with.

Steeling her will, Ashley flipped through the pages of her tome, finding the spell she needed. Committing the list of ingredients to memory, she went to the kitchen to fetch them from the cupboards.

Arranging the jars of spices, and other less savory objects, on the table, Ashley poured water into an earthenware bowl. Carefully measured ingredients followed, according to the spell she hoped to cast. Bursts of smoke, and roiling bubbles filled the bowl, as Ashley tossed in the various ingredients.

A tiny bit of ginger root was the last thing to enter the bowl, prompting a bright flash of light, and the biggest puff of smoke yet. Through the haze, Ashley could see that the surface of the water now glimmered with a silvery hue.

Rubbing her bright green eyes, Ashley wondered if she shouldn't have just waited until after she'd slept to cast this spell. She was exhausted from scrying already, and establishing visual contact with the location where the demons were was dangerous. If she wasn't careful, they would know they were being spied upon, and might even be able to trace the source if she wasn't wary.

Shaking her head, Ashley clenched her teeth tightly, and willed the doubts away. She needed to know what sort of evil creatures were there, and she needed to discover it now, before they moved. She took a few more moments to prepare, and then spoke the words of the spell over the bowl.

Show me the evil most fell –
That I now seek –
The place where they dwell –
To prey on the meek.
Show me their darkness –
Their deeds black as tar –
This vessel I bless –
To observe from afar.

The remaining smoke hovering over the bowl swirled into a whirlwind, which quickly evaporated, revealing the spinning water below. Ashley watched, waiting for the image to settle, and then gasped when it did.

She saw no fewer than three greater demons, which could possess any number of powers. With them, several lesser demons. She could identify the powers of those she didn't recognize in her book, but it really didn't matter. Staring at the scene in the bowl, Ashley knew there was no way she could hope to combat so many demons. The lesser demons didn't worry her, nor did a single greater demon. The combination is what would prove deadly, should she choose to attack.

Preparing to banish the vision, before the demons – who already appeared to be sensing something amiss – could locate her, Ashley saw another demonic entity appear within the image.

Ashley's eyes hardened, and she spit out the name, "Rexxus." The demon that had killed her mother, leaving her an orphan. He was a top-ranking minion of Meckataur, one of the most dangerous Devils now stalking the Prime Material plane.

Rexxus appeared to turn toward her, seeking out the source of the scrying he felt. Ashley quickly banished the magic, by the simple expedient of upending the bowl. The room filled with smoke, but opening the windows and doors would solve that. Letting Rexxus find her when she was unprepared wouldn't have been so simple to remedy.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 02



The addition of Rexxus changed everything. While Ashley knew she was no match for such a varied and powerful group of demons, the chance to destroy Rexxus overruled it. He had hidden from her since discovering she had a drop of his blood, which could be used to brew a vanquishing potion. Now that she knew he was involved with these other demons, she knew he would return.

Clenching her hand around the glass vial in her pocket, Ashley thought, And I'll be ready for you.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

I hope you're enjoying Book II in Danica's trilogy. Please take a moment to vote/comment, as that is the bread and butter of a free author — it's what keeps us writing! You can vote on every chapter. You certainly won't hear me complaining!

Big thanks to Roust Writer for his editing. I don't know how I got along without his keen eye, quick wit, and insight.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 03



Author's Notes:

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission. © Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline. For those who've already read Danica, welcome back to my world.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Relaxing next to the Pharaoh, trying to keep from dripping on the bed after enticing him to fill her upon awakening, Danica sat up and said, "I wanted to warn you about something."

The Pharaoh let out a questioning grunt, still too wrapped up in the aftermath of his climax to do more than that.

Danica continued, "The man you entered with last night, before my dance -- I know him. You shouldn't trust him. He works for someone who is trying to embroil the world in war, to distract them from some mad scheme of his own. He'll surely try to subvert people in your government, and likely already has."

That snapped Pharaoh out of his ecstatic fog. Sitting up, he asked, "What leads you to believe this?"

Danica sighed. "I can't explain, for my own safety and that of people I care about. Just be wary, and I'm sure you'll see things you've been missing. If you know what he's up to, things will likely stand out. That's why I came here, thinking to pass word through your sons to you."

Pharaoh's eyes narrowed. "Perhaps there is some truth in your words. Many of Clentamos' actions and suggestions are strange."

Danica smiled. "Just keep an eye on him -- that's all I ask. Anything that can interfere with whatever Zoraster was planning will help. I don't know what his actual goal was -- but knowing the man -- I know it had to be something that would be bad for anyone who didn't bow before him."

Sitting up and stretching, Danica said, "I should really be getting back. Your sons certainly inherited their skills from their father. It was wonderful."

A slight grin spread across Pharaoh's face, but it faded a moment later. "You have given me much to consider, and I shall do so." He once again smiled when he added, "I would be most pleased to have you dance for me again -- and share my bed."

Running her finger down the man's chest, Danica responded, "I have friends here in the city now. I'll probably be back for a visit or two."

"We shall await your return."

Danica kissed the Pharaoh's forehead, and then climbed out of bed in preparation to return to Harkhuf's house.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

With everyone fed the morning meal, Andrea took her turn watching the girls for the morning. Celes and Marlena washed the dishes, with a lot of magical cheating on Celes' part, and then retired to the study.

Celes looked up from her mother's tome, shaking her head to clear it. For some reason, she couldn't get her mind to wrap around demons and rhymes today. Thinking she might need to take a break -- or perhaps find something in the Art to study instead, she glanced around and noticed Marlena absorbed in a spell book.

Walking over, Celes looked over Marlena's shoulder, seeing that the woman was studying the Permanency spell. When Marlena raised her head with a frustrated growl, Celes said, "Permanency? That's a difficult spell, and not something I'd expect you to be studying."

"I've been trying ever since I had my first dream here. I could cast this spell in it, and I hoped it might be prophetic. I'm not doing so well, though," Marlena explained, tugging at her red hair in irritation.

"You never mentioned that," Celes said. "Come to think of it -- that could be a perfect spell for you. A permanent illusion would be a useful thing sometimes, and yours would surely be magnificent."

"Flatterer," Marlena said sarcastically, but she blushed at the same time. She knew full well that Celes' praise of her ability to wield illusion magic was quite genuine.

Closing the book in front of Marlena, Celes said, "I need to take a break from witchery, and I think you need a break from this spell. How are you doing with learning some offensive spells? Have you managed the lightning bolt, yet?"

"Is witchery even a word?" Marlena asked with a cheeky smile.

"Don't change the subject," Celes scolded, slapping the woman playfully.

Marlena sighed, "Not yet. I feel like I'm so close, but I just can't get it."

Celes held up a finger to indicate that Marlena should wait, and then walked over to the bookshelf. Pulling down a volume she knew contained the lightning bolt spell, she brought it over to the table. Opening the book to the appropriate page, she sat it down in front of Marlena. "Okay, let me hear you say the words, and we'll see if that's it. There are a couple of inflections in this spell I've never heard you use in your magic."

Marlena spoke the words of the spell, making all the appropriate gestures, and Celes caught the mistake near the end of the spell immediately.

"It's that final syllable in the next to the last word," Celes said, pointing at the word in the book. "You're saying it a little too sharp. It should be more drawn out, almost like a little gasp -- with a little hissing quality to it." She then said the word with the proper inflection.

Marlena repeated it, and Celes said the word again. They continued in this fashion until Celes was satisfied that Marlena had the word pronounced perfectly. "Okay, now try the whole spell again."

Once again, Marlena spoke the words of the spell. When she reached the troublesome word this time, it glided from her lips perfectly. The redhead lurched, her eyes widening as she felt the tingle running through her body, signaling that the spell was hers.

Chuckling, Celes asked, "You have it, don't you?"

Marlena nodded, too excited about learning some truly offensive magic to give voice to her feelings.

Opening a nearby drawer, Celes withdrew a small amber rod and a patch of rabbit fur. Handing them to Marlena, she said, "Well, let's go outside then. I'm sure you want to try it out. We'll go over to the other side of the manor and I'll conjure up a spell siphon shield. That should handle a lightning bolt well enough, when I know what's coming. That way, Andrea can watch from the window. You'll probably have to do it again for Danica, though."

Standing up, Marlena paused before heading toward the door. She opened the first book, flipping back to the Permanency spell again. Pointing at one of the words, she asked Celes, "Is this the same inflection?"

Glancing down, Celes smiled and said, "Yes, it is."

"One step closer," Marlena announced, and closed the book.

A few minutes later, Marlena danced in the grass outside, having just cast her first lightning bolt. From behind her shield, Celes applauded, as did Andrea from a window of the manor.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

In a nondescript grotto, deep within a windswept isle, the old Guardian repeated Marlena's earlier words as he watched Marlena dance in his mind's eye.

"One step closer."

Vellana looked up from her studies, saying, "Master?"

"Nothing, Vellana," Tam answered. "Where are you in your history lesson, my dear?"

"The fall of Brightwall, now known as Nightmare Castle," Vellana answered. "I still don't understand why it is important for me to read all this. Shouldn't I be spending more time learning magic, if I am to assist you in defending the stone?"

"Magic is powerful, but knowledge is the greatest weapon of all. Pay close attention to this part of your history lesson, as Nightmare Castle is a focal point of the here and now," Tam instructed.

"The Demon Lord?"

Nodding gravely, Tam said, "Yes, Meckataur. The stone will speak to you in your studies, as well. The knowledge may be locked away, revealed to you when the time is right, but everything you learn in the presence of the stone carries more weight than you know at the time."

"We will take time to study new spells today though, won't we?" Vellana looked up at the old man with a wistful expression.

Laughing, Tam patted her on the shoulder. "Yes, my dear, we will take time to study magic -- after you have finished reading your history."

Vellana smiled and returned to her reading. Tam closed his eyes, slipping back into his mental exploration of the world -- and the events rapidly unfolding.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica was nearly skipping as she walked from the litter into Harkhuf's home. She was sexually satisfied, and with Clexis' memory erased, Tari and Rekhmire were safe.

When she opened the door, Harkhuf turned to look at her and immediately chuckled. "You appear to be in high spirits."

Now, Danica did skip. When she reached Harkhuf, she kissed him on the cheek and said, "Well, I accomplished everything I set out to do. The Pharaoh has been warned -- personally -- and I got the opportunity to make sure that Tari and Rekhmire will go unnoticed here."

Rekhmire walked in to the room. "That is pleasing news. This house is in need of many things, and we will need to go to the market."

Harkhuf waved his hand to Rekhmire and said, "Come -- I will show you where I keep my coin and give you one of the key stones to unlock the strongbox. It should be enough to keep the house well-supplied for some time to come, but you need only send a message to the temple if the need for more arises."

Tari had entered right behind Rekhmire, and walked up to Danica while Harkhuf led Rekhmire out of the room. "This priest is much different than those I have known," Hathortari remarked. "He is kind, considerate, and does not look upon me like an animal."

"Harkhuf is a good man," Danica agreed. "I think you'll like it here, and you'll be safe now."

"You will be leaving soon, then?" Tari asked. Danica could see a touch of disappointment -- and desire -- in the beautiful woman's eyes.

Danica suppressed a shudder. "Maybe I'll stay another night," she said, twitching her eyebrows.

Color flooded Tari's cheeks, but she smiled back at Danica in a provocative manner and said, "I hoped you might."

"I think I'll check out the library here today, and perhaps do a little shopping while you and Rekhmire are out." Danica paused and added, "You were going with him, weren't you?"

"I would see this city. I find the display of wealth distasteful, but I am drawn to discover my new home."

"That will work perfectly. Then when we get back, we'll figure out something to do, to pass the time."

The two women shared a laugh as the men returned. Harkhuf and Rekhmire asked, of course, but Tari and Danica refused to say what they were talking about.

"You'll find out soon enough," Danica said with a toss of her hair. She laughed again, and then said, "I'm going to the library while they go shopping. I'll be back in a while, Harkhuf."

"I will accompany you. I need to speak with those here in the home temple," Harkhuf said.

Danica smiled and said, "Let's get going then."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Having placed Delilah in a high-class house of ill-repute -- one run by a madam under his control who had the wits to conceal the demon while educating her at the same time -- Ebonar arrived back at his complex with the second demon in tow. "You may choose to take your quarters here, within my inner sanctum, or live amongst the humans, to better study them, Thanatos."

"I will take quarters befitting any new apprentice," The dark-robed demon replied, his voice quiet and unremarkable.

This one is going to be cagey, Ebonar thought. He already seeks to be easily forgotten, and his features are commonplace. He will surely prove to be a dangerous foe -- or a valuable tool.

"As it pleases you, Thanatos. I will make the arrangements immediately. You will, of course, have complete access to the totality of the school library, as well as some unique magics only provided to a few -- when you are ready for them."

"You have females here?" Thanatos asked.

Ebonar chuckled. "Many -- and many more within my sphere of influence. Would you care to begin your education in that aspect of humanity now?" From his studies, he knew the demon's seed would be inviolate until it reached a higher level of maturity. Meckataur would have surely bound all his spawn with that restriction, in order to prevent them from breeding weak demons.

Throwing back his hood, revealing a mop of shoulder-length brown hair, Thanatos smiled. "Yes."

"I will fetch one immediately, then. You will find a room across the hall that should suit your needs. I will send the woman there. Do you have any special preference?"

"One that will teach me to please the females, that I may beguile them when they are most vulnerable," Thanatos replied.

"You learn quickly. I believe I know just the woman. Do try your best not to damage her in any permanent fashion, as she could serve you well for some time -- until you are ready to seek conquests of your own."

Thanatos nodded his understanding.

"I shall fetch her then, and leave directions to reach your new quarters within the school here.

Thanatos spun on his heel, heading toward the exit, and Ebonar vanished in a flash of light to bring the whore he had in mind for the demon.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica tucked a bundle of rolled parchments into her bag and left the library. She smiled sweetly at the man watching over the entrance, fighting off the urge to laugh at the priest. He had thought it unthinkable that she would be able to pass into the library, which was warded by the magic of a god. Little did he know that Danica had already been found worthy by Sekmamun, and could enter any such library whenever she wished. Even though she had spent two hours of exploring and copying spells, the man still stared at her with stunned disbelief.

When Danica reached a gallery near the entrance of the temple, she saw Harkhuf waiting for her. He intersected her path to walk with her out of the temple. "Were your studies fruitful?" He asked.

"Very," Danica replied. "I found one that is really intriguing, but it lists a spell component I've never heard of before. Do you know the spell Glasswall?"

"I believe I have seen it in the library, but have never taken the opportunity to study it."

"I'll show you the spell when we get back to your house. Maybe you'll recognize the component. I can think of some really useful applications for it." Danica shielded her eyes from the sun as they stepped outside the temple.

"I will be pleased to assist you," Harkhuf said with a slight bow.

They reached Harkhuf's house a few minutes later, and Danica withdrew her scrolls. Locating the identification mark of the scroll she wished Harkhuf to look at, Danica spread it out on a table. Harkhuf moved to stand next to her as Danica scanned down the lines of the scroll.

"There," she said and pointed. Do you have any idea what the secret well of life is?"

Harkhuf nodded and smiled. "It is a type of cactus that grows in the desert. It stores a great deal of water within, and thus may be used as a source of water where no other may be available. Few outside our land know this, and thus it is the secret well of life."

"Do you know where any are?" Danica asked.

"Of course. I will give you directions, and I will show you a place that I believe is unique enough to allow you to use it as a teleportation pattern. This place is very close to where some of the cacti grow."

"Thank you," Danica responded with a bright smile.

The door opened, heralding the return of Rekhmire and Hathortari. The sight of the couple also heralded the awakening of Danica's desire. Though Danica's goal was to learn to control those feelings, right now she saw no reason to. Tari had hinted she was hungry for Danica's touch, and Danica believed a little celebration was in order, considering she had accomplished all her goals here.

For the moment, she kept the bonfire within her contained. Tari and Rekhmire had numerous purchases to bring inside and put away. Once the work was done, it would be time for play. Moving toward the door, Danica went to help.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Having finished their evening meal, Danica and the others sat, sipping wine. Looking at Hathortari sitting across from her, the fires within Danica surged, refusing to be contained this time.

Danica kicked off her shoes, running her bare foot up Tari's leg. Tari gasped, trembling from the touch and causing the two men at the table to look at her with confusion. A moment later, they noticed Danica's sly smile, and then they understood.

Danica stood, walking around the table to kiss Tari's neck. Standing back up straight, she announced, "I think we might retire a bit early. We have a lot of catching up to do."

Blushing a little, Tari stood up -- embarrassment unable to overshadow her desire for Danica. Danica kissed the woman hungrily, and then took her hand, leading her toward the bedroom. As they walked, Danica looked back over her shoulder and asked, "Would you care to join us?"

Not waiting for an answer, Danica continued with Tari toward the bedroom Harkhuf had provided for the former slave's use. The sound of two chairs sliding away from the table behind her brought a smile to Danica's lips.

The two women fell into the bed together, their lips locked in a passionate kiss and their hands already roaming over each other's bodies. Those questing hands quickly worked at knots and fasteners, removing clothing that was in the way of their desires. When Danica felt the presence of the two men in the room, she made a gesture with both hands, indicating they should come to opposite sides of the bed.

Once Harkhuf and Rekhmire appeared in Danica's peripheral vision, as she suckled Tari's right nipple, she patted the bed, directing the men to sit. The final bits of concealing cloth vanished from the two women's bodies as the men followed Danica's direction.

Pushing gently on Rekhmire's hip, she instructed him to move toward the head of the bed. At the same time, she moved one of her knees between Tari's, and parted the dusky-skinned woman's legs. Tari's breathing quickened as Danica slid her hands over Tari's tummy, edging toward the woman's mound. At the same time, Danica slowly edged her knees backward, leaning down over Tari's sex.

Reaching up, Danica guided Tari's hand under Rekhmire's tented kilt and dropped down to taste the woman. Danica's hand slipped beneath Harkhuf's kilt as she teased Tari's folds with her tongue.

Hathortari rose quickly toward a peak on Danica's tongue, writhing beneath the redhead and erupting in a steady stream of sharp, high-pitched moans. Both women's hands continued to rasp over the men's erections, although a bit sporadically. They were too caught up in each other to coordinate the motion of their arms more than that.

Danica moaned into Tari's sex as the flow of the woman's spicy juices increased. Tari's hips rose up toward Danica's face, and Danica knew the dark-haired beauty was nearly there. Tari trembled, her hands moving to the back of Danica's head. A long cry of pleasure bubbled from Tari's lips -- turning sharp and loud as the first throes of orgasm gripped her.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 03



Lapping for the flow of Tari's juices, Danica rode the woman's bucking hips until Tari finally stilled. With a final kiss over Tari's folds, Danica climbed over her to kiss her passionately. Tari returned the kiss, tasting her own juices on Danica's lips. When their lips parted, Danica asked, "Do you mind if I borrow Rekhmire for a few minutes?"

Shivering from another jolt of orgasmic energy, Tari indicated that she didn't mind with a shake of her head and a smile.

Having cleaned up to prepare for this just before dinner, Danica moaned, "Mmm, thank you." Reaching out to tug at the two men's kilts, she said, "Are you going to take those off -- or should I tear them off with my teeth?"

While the two men undressed, Danica leaned over the edge of the bed, pulling something from a pocket in her robes. Moving to her hands and knees, Danica squeezed the lubricating liquid into her bottom, smiling mischievously at the two men. Once it was empty, she tossed the tube to the floor, and guided the still-quivering Tari over to one side of the bed.

Danica next guided Rekhmire to lie down, and knelt over his body, facing away from him. Leaning back, she supported most of her weight on one arm, and used her other hand to guide the tip of his cock between her buttocks, to the iris of her ass.

He pushed as she sank down, and Danica groaned as he slipped deep into her ass. Putting her other hand behind her, Danica looked up at Harkhuf, licked her lips, and gestured with her head toward her nether lips. Harkhuf needed no further instruction, and moved between her widespread knees.

"Oh, gods -- yes," Danica moaned as Harkhuf's cock sank into her depths. Both men's hips started to work, and Danica cried her pleasure to the roof above. The penetrating shafts within her stroked quickly, feeding fuel into the fire surging in Danica's depths.

Danica hadn't even realized she'd closed her eyes until she popped them open in surprise, to find Tari kneeling next to her. Tari's hand moved to Danica's bud, even as the dusky-skinned woman closed her lips over Danica's left nipple.

With the addition of Tari's flashing fingers and softly suckling lips, Danica lost control within moments. She exploded into orgasm, her muscles clenching tight around the two cocks buried inside her. Both men froze, and Harkhuf could feel the warm flood of Danica's gushing orgasm around him. It leaked out around his shaft, dripping to the bed below as Danica trembled and screamed.

When the first wave passed, Danica's arms began to tremble. Sinking down against Rekhmire, she screamed as both men started thrusting again. Rekhmire reached up to squeeze her breasts, pinching the nipples, while Tari leaned over Danica's body to flicker her tongue over Danica's clit.

Danica's orgasm surged again. She didn't even hear the twin grunts as first Harkhuf, and then Rekhmire erupted into her depths. She certainly felt the hot swell of their cream spreading within her, however, and it triggered yet another spike of pleasure.

Harkhuf's weight pressed against her, his energy spent in his release. Danica lay sandwiched between the two gasping men, her own breathing little more than labored pants. They all continued to quiver, until Danica gasped out, "I need some air."

Harkhuf pulled from her with a sigh, sitting down heavily on the bed. Rekhmire helped lift Danica's hips at the same time, and she moaned in protest of the emptiness within her. Rolling over, face down on the bed, Danica ground her still tingling sex against the bedclothes. Tari stroked her hands softly over Danica's back, until Danica was at last able to catch her breath and roll back over again.

Smiling up at the dark-haired woman next to her, Danica asked, "Would you like to try it, Tari?"

With a shy, embarrassed smile, Tari nodded her head and giggled.

Sitting up weakly, Danica said, "Let's go get you cleaned up then. I can't wait to see you explode on both their gorgeous cocks."

The two women slipped out of the bed, leaving the two groaning men to recover. Neither man was quite ready to move when Danica and Hathortari returned, but their strength returned quickly enough under the ministrations of the women's hands and mouths.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The spinning crystal thumped into Ashley's map, showing that Rexxus remained where she had located the demons. Now that she knew he was amongst the demons, she could scry for him specifically.

She had spent the entire day in study, researching the demons she had seen in her earlier scrying. None of the greater demons appeared in her family book, save Rexxus, and she had penned his entry. The lesser demons would be of little consequence, save for their numbers, and could be vanquished with any number of potions -- or her powers.

The greater demons, including Rexxus, were the real danger. Not knowing their powers, Ashley knew it would be foolish to attack such a concentration of powerful hellspawn. Running her fingers over the two potion vials in her hands, she knew she would risk it, however. The first potion was the vanquishing potion for Rexxus. The second would transport her instantly back here when hurled at her feet. She planned to destroy Rexxus, and then flee before the other demons could organize a proper attack. She might learn something about the nature of the other greater demons' powers in the process, as well.

Rubbing her aching eyes, she knew she wouldn't be doing anything this evening. She was too exhausted, and launching the attack now would be suicide. Sitting down the two vials, she trudged wearily to her bed. The demons didn't appear to be moving, and would likely still be there when she awakened.

Then she would destroy Rexxus, and strike a blow against Meckataur at the same time.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Having tucked in the last of the girls, Celes wandered back toward her room. When she passed the study, she saw Marlena slumped over a book inside. Shaking her head and chuckling, Celes turned into the room to awaken Marlena and put her to bed.

Reaching Marlena, Celes shook her gently. "Dearie... Marlena -- wake up, Dearie."

Marlena sat up with a gasp, blinking sleep out of her eyes. She looked over at Celes when her wits returned, and almost immediately turned bright red.

Celes chuckled. "You just dozed off. Nothing to be so embarrassed about. We all do it -- rather frequently I might add."

Marlena's blush only deepened, and she nervously closed the book in front of her. "It's not that... Never mind."

Celes teased, "Were you making your dream man again?" She shook Marlena's shoulder playfully, and then added. "Sorry, I couldn't help it. Were you dreaming? Was there anything new?"

"No, it wasn't a dream like that -- I don't think. I was dreaming about Brandon, and..." Marlena cast her eyes downward.

Celes grinned, and the smile grew wider as an idea occurred to her. "Maybe you need to get away from things for a while. I could take you to Blackhawk Hall for the evening. I know their teleportation pattern."

Marlena perked up, looking at Celes and smiling brightly. She covered her mouth with her hand when she realized how she had reacted, drawing a chuckle from Celes.

"Come along. Go get in a quick bath, and put on something pretty. I think you need this, and I hardly think Brandon will be adverse to some company." Celes took Marlena's hand, guiding her to stand.

Marlena continued to blush, but she stepped briskly toward her room and the bath. No more than a quarter hour later, her hair still damp, she approached Celes with a look of anxious anticipation in her eyes.

The two women clasped hands and vanished in a flash of light. A moment later, they reappeared atop the teleportation pattern in Blackhawk Hall.

Having been alerted to someone using the pattern, the Duchess stepped around the corner, her hand on a dagger at her hip. When Christi saw the two women, she relaxed and smiled. "Celes, and Marlena -- right?"

Celes nodded, and pointed at Marlena. "She was wondering if Brandon might be about."

Marlena gasped, "Celes!"

Celes and the Duchess both chuckled. Christi nodded and said, "He just got back in today. We had some orcs raiding farms down in the south of the Duchy, and he volunteered as soon as he heard about it. He really doesn't like orcs, does he?"

Celes nodded. "He made a promise to someone, and it sounds like he's keeping it. He told the Dwarf that made that blade that he would be a bane to orcs, wherever he found them."

Christi laughed, shaking out her long, dark hair. "He's certainly that. The men that went with him said he was like a whirlwind when they found them. They had to hurry to get a chance at some of the fleeing stragglers. He and Cerebus went down to town for a couple of beers. They should be back any time."

A gruff voice arose from somewhere behind the Duchess, "How about now?"

Christi turned as Duke Cerebus and Brandon walked in the room. Brandon smiled wide upon seeing the two women and asked, "What brings the two of you here?"

Christi grabbed her husband's hand, leading him out of the room with a knowing grin. Celes chuckled at the same time and pointed at Marlena, "She needs a break, and some company. Have fun, Marlena." With that, Celes cast her spell again and vanished from the room.

Marlena pursed her lips in irritation at the spot Celes had just vacated. She then turned back to Brandon, her face burning, and her loins aching.

"Well, we could go have a little wine and catch up. You can tell me what you all have been up to, wherever you're all hiding out. That looks real good on you, by the way."

Marlena smiled at the compliment and said, "Thank you. Some wine sounds lovely."

Brandon held out his hand to her and said, "Let's go then. They gave me a room here in the keep, and I've got a bottle of Boldheart Red right out of the King's own wine cellar."

Marlena's pretense of wanting company didn't last for more than a few minutes once she was alone with Brandon. They soon tumbled into his bed.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Watching Marlena and Brandon furiously coupling, Ebonar chuckled. So, you've begun venturing out from wherever you've been hiding, have you ladies?

Turning to another mirror, he scowled at it in irritation. He knew the mirror was focused on Danica, but the image was little more than indistinct, smoky outlines. Some sort of magic prevented him from spying upon her -- powerful magic. The numerous wards on Blackhawk Hall were as nothing to the power of the mirrors, and yet Danica remained hidden, wherever she was.

I'll penetrate your defenses soon enough, Ebonar thought as he turned away from the mirror. A third and fourth mirror showed similar scenes to the first. Thanatos coupled with the whore Ebonar had sent for him, as had been for quite some time. Delilah likewise quivered beneath a grunting man in the fourth mirror.

The scenes sparked arousal within Ebonar, and thoughts of a new student, recently arrived to the complex. A smile crept across his lips, and he gestured to the mirrors, causing them all to go dark. Spinning on his heel, he left the room, planning to go properly welcome the beautiful young magic user.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Andrea opened one eye and groaned. She pulled the pillow over her head, muttering something unintelligible.

Crossing the room and patting the blonde's bottom where it was hidden beneath the covers, Celes said, "Andrea, we need to get started on breakfast. We're going to have to get along without Danica and Marlena this morning."

Pulling the pillow off her face, Andrea sleepily asked, "Why?"

"Because I took Marlena to see Brandon last night. Odds are, she's going to be sleeping in." Celes whipped the covers off Andrea when she finished.

Andrea let out a hungry little moan at the mention of Brandon. She pursed her lips after a moment and said, "I feel like biscuits and gravy." She yawned and sat up after making the suggestion.

Celes averted her eyes as Andrea pulled off her sleeping shift. The action was not for Andrea's benefit -- but for her own. If she looked at Andrea too long, they weren't going to get breakfast started any time soon. Marlena was not been the only one having erotic dreams. "Sounds good to me. I say we give the girls a bit of free reign today, too. We'll lay down the rules and see if they'll behave without us hovering over their shoulders."

Andrea pulled on a linen gown, shaking her shoulders until it hung straight. "We can watch them in one of the mirrors, just to be safe."

"It will give us a chance to study, and it will probably be good for the girls," Celes added. "No better time to test it, since we're on our own today."

"We should try scrying. We never did get around to that," Andrea suggested as they walked out the door toward the kitchen.

Celes nodded her agreement and swatted Andrea playfully on her shapely bottom. "Good idea. Let's get breakfast going -- I'm starving."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica rose and stretched. Sitting up, she chuckled, thinking about how she had cheated last night and used a spell stored in her hood ring to transport her back to her own bed. She'd been too exhausted to walk or cast a spell, but there was simply no room in Tari's bed for more than two -- at least when they weren't stacked in interesting ways.

After a quick bath, Danica pulled on her wizard robes. She planned to go hunting the spell component for the Glasswall spell today, and it seemed appropriate. The robes were enchanted to deal with all sorts of elemental calamities, as well. That was a point in their favor, considering she would be venturing through a desert.

When she walked out of her room, she found Harkhuf sitting at a table looking through some scrolls. "You're up awfully early," she remarked.

"I am accustomed to rising with the sun -- regardless of how late I remain awake," he responded.

Smiling slyly, Danica said, "Or how much of a workout you get?"

Harkhuf laughed. "I must admit that I doubt I will engage in much strenuous activity today, and I will likely seek my bed early this evening."

Danica sat down, wishing for a cup of coffee. "Do you have enough energy to show me where to find that cactus? I thought I'd go look for it, and then I'd better get back. I've already left Celes, Marlena, and Andrea to cover my part of watching over the girls for too long."

"Of course. I will prepare what I need shortly."

Danica stood back up. "And I'll go prepare what I need right now -- lots of coffee."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ashley checked over the vials sitting on the table one more time. Satisfied that she had everything she needed, she placed the first of the blue vials into a cloth pouch. The potions would vanquish any of the minor demons, even though she had no intention of remaining long enough to need them.

She slipped an amulet around her neck, which would blunt many forms of demon attack. It was far from foolproof, but would give her some extra time if something went wrong with her plan.

Remaining on the table were three silvery potions that sparkled with little motes that flowed through the liquid, and a blood-red one. One of the silver potions would transport her to the desert, near where the demons were lurking. A second would pop her in their midst, to use the red vanquishing potion on Rexxus. The final potion would bring her back here a moment later, if all went well.

Slipping two of the silver potions and the red one into a different bag, she strung them onto her belt. Pulling at the neckline of her blouse, Ashley fanned air over her ample breasts. She was nervous, and sweating more than a little. It's only going to be hotter when you get to the desert, she thought. To those ends, she slung the straps of two canteens over her shoulder. She didn't plan to be in the dry wasteland for long, but going to a desert without plenty of water was foolish.

As ready as she could be, Ashley picked up the final silver potion and walked out to the center of the room. This is it, she thought, taking a deep breath. You've plagued this world for too long, Rexxus. You won't be doing it any more.

Ashley dropped the vial at her feet, and it shattered the moment it touched the ground. A whirlwind of smoke rose up from the vial to envelop her, silvery motes of light drifting around in the spinning cloud. Ashley faded from view, and the whirlwind vanished.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica adjusted her bag of holding and let out a sigh. "I hate to leave, since it's been so long since we've seen each other, but I really should get back."

"We will miss you," Tari said, walking over to hug Danica.

"I have the ankh from Harkhuf, so I can teleport here at any time now," Danica said, hugging the young woman back.

"I assure you that nothing short of divine intervention can spy upon anyone in my home, as well. Therefore, there is nothing preventing you from coming at will to see Rekhmire and Hathortari," Harkhuf added.

"You wouldn't be so interested because you plan to spend more time here, would you?" Danica asked Harkhuf, twitching her eyebrows at him.

Harkhuf spread his hands wide and smiled. "It would be untruthful for me to say I did not hunger for your company. You can use the image of the oasis as a pattern?"

Danica nodded. "Yes, you were right; it may as well be a teleportation pattern. It's hard to believe it's natural. If there are some of those cactuses as close as you say, I should have them and be on my way home within an hour."

"You should gather some of the desert sand, as well. This oasis is near the heart of the desert, and you will find the sand there to be a powerful spell component," Harkhuf advised. "You may even discover some natural glass, which will be likewise powerful when used in the working of the Art."

"I'll do that," Danica responded. Turning back to the couple she had brought here, she said, "I'll try to come and visit whenever I can."

"We shall eagerly await your coming," Rekhmire said, bowing his head.

Danica cast her spell, and vanished in a flash of light.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ashley stared into the crystal sphere, spying upon the demons, which were in turn spying upon some desert dwelling elves. Knowing this, Ashley wished she could do more than vanquish Rexxus alone. The demons surely had foul plans in mind for the elves.

I'll just have to find a way to warn them. I know where they are now, so I can surely find a spell to send them a warning, Ashley thought. Content with that reasoning, she concentrated on the image in the crystal sphere once more. She had to wait until Rexxus was sufficiently removed from the other demons, if her plan was going to work.

The demons continued to lurk about, unaware of her spying. This magic was not true scrying, but rather amplified her vision to see across the distance between her and the hellspawn, and thus did not create the same dangers of detection. There was minimal risk to her, so she could continue to watch until the time was right.

A flash of light in her peripheral vision caused Ashley to turn. Muttering a curse under her breath, she reached out with her powers, focusing them carefully, so as not to alert any of the demons across the sand.

The woman, who was quite attractive and dressed in wizard's robes, did not freeze. She's not a demon or one of their pawns, then, Ashley thought. Made invisible by a spell in her book, she didn't worry about the woman seeing her.

The same couldn't necessarily be said of the demons.

Ashley bit her lower lip. If the demons noticed the newcomer, they might come to investigate. While her spells would hide her from them at a distance, they could probably pierce the magic up close. It was a strong likelihood that the greater demons would detect her almost instantly.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 03



The woman smiled and walked over toward a cactus. She knelt down next to it to pluck blossoms from the plant, depositing them in a bag and whistling. Ashley made the decision to shield the other woman from the demons for now, and then decide what to do about her.

Concentrating for a moment, she summoned up the words of the spell in her mind and whispered them to the wind.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica deposited another blossom into her bag. This one cactus had several dozen blooms sprouting from it, and so she wouldn't need to seek out another. It was also right next to the oasis, just out of the range of the scrying spell Harkhuf had used to show the location to her earlier.

Danica would soon have more than enough of the blossoms to cast the spell many times, and have a few to spare for experimentation as well. Glancing about, she saw several more of the cactuses, all in bloom. She could return here at any time to gather more, as well.

That thought in mind, Danica sealed the silken bag, deciding she had enough of the blossoms for now. Withdrawing a cloth sack, she scooped sand into it as Harkhuf had suggested. She could always come back later and look for the glass he had mentioned. Right now, she wanted to get out of the heat and back home.

The hair on the back of Danica's neck stood up, and she dropped the bag to the ground. She knew the sensation all too well, someone summoning up magical power -- close by. Slipping into the second sight, she initially saw nothing. Concentrating harder, she caught the faint edges of something swirling around her.

Focusing on the half-seen strands of power, Danica found that they solidified in her vision. It looked like some sort of bubble being formed around her, and didn't give a sense of hostility, although she could determine nothing more than that. A tendril of power led away from the bubble, off toward the other side of the oasis.

Following the line of power, Danica saw a similar bubble not far away. After another moment, she could see something within it. Steadily, she came to realize it was a woman, crouching down within the bubble.

Danica slipped out of the second sight, and she could then see the other woman with her normal vision. "I don't really like people spinning spells around me unasked."

Ashley started, and quietly asked, "You can see me?"

Walking toward the woman, Danica immediately noticed the odd color of her hair. It was a red so deep that it almost looked black. The hair framed a face that was narrow, beautiful, and had very attractive cheekbones, which Danica thought would likely stand out even more if the woman smiled. Expressive eyes, now opened wide in surprise, drew Danica's gaze deep within the long-lashed orbs. Danica guessed that the woman was in her twenties, and didn't have to guess that she was attractive. The dress and skirt the woman wore showed off a toned, shapely body. 

Raising her eyebrows, Danica said, "I can see you now, after tracing this little magical bubble of yours." Danica gestured, tracing the edges of the magical shell surrounding her.

"I wasn't trying to hurt you, I just sought to hide you," Ashley said, standing up.

Danica stopped a few feet away, and asked, "From what?" At the same time, she reached out with her mind, sifting through the other woman's surface thoughts. While the woman debated about what she should reveal to Danica, she was actually already revealing everything. The woman was hiding from demons, who were stalking elves, and planned to destroy one of them with a potion.

Think, Ashley. You need to figure out what to do in a hurry. You may never get this good of a chance to destroy Rexxus again. She's not a demon, and she doesn't appear to be dangerous. Maybe I should just tell her everything, and tell her she should get far away from here, quickly.

Withdrawing from Ashley's mind, Danica said, "Demons, huh?" Holding up a hand to cut off whatever the stunned woman was about to say, Danica continued. "I have my ways, and I believe you aren't trying to hurt me. I'm not going to hurt you either, Ashley. I'm not really fond of demons either -- especially ones that are skulking around an elf village." Crossing the final few steps between them, Danica said, "My name is Danica. Maybe I can give you a hand. I've faced demons and devils before, and I've been working on magic to combat them."

Ashley absorbed the stunning revelations, wondering how this Danica had found out everything, but having her suspicions. "I can't risk another. These demons are dangerous. They're minions of a powerful devil, named Meckataur. You should just go -- now -- before it's too late."

Upon the mention of Meckataur, Danica's eyes narrowed. "I've run afoul of Meckataur before, and I've heard some very disturbing things about him lately. No, I think I'm in just the right place. I'm not going anywhere." Turning around, Danica concentrated on her bag, closing it and bringing it to her hand with her telekinetic powers. "Where are the demons?"

Danica's calm demeanor and the demonstration of power started Ashley thinking. She might be able to do more damage to Meckataur's schemes if she had some help. "Come here, I can show you," she said, holding up the crystal sphere.

Danica took another step closer, and Ashley said, "Just look into it. It's focused on one demon in particular, known as Rexxus."

Danica gazed into the sphere, catching a whiff of sweet perfume coming from Ashley. Smiling, she thought that she should get to know this beautiful woman a little better. Pushing the thoughts aside, she concentrated on the sphere until she could see the image within it.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The crystal thumped into the map, and Andrea clapped her hands. "Well, we sort of knew where Danica would be, anyway, but I guess this proves it's working."

Moving the crystal off to the side, Celes moved the map as well, spreading out another one. This map showed the area the crystal had indicated in closer detail. "Let's see if we can't narrow it down a bit more. This could be useful, because I doubt there are many scrying detection spells that would pick it up."

"I'm just happy to see it work. I like knowing that I can do something like this. I was always a little jealous of all of you that could work magic, and now I can too!"

Celes chuckled, happy to see Andrea so excited. "You'll probably learn all sorts of magic as you study. I know my book is full of interesting things." 

With that, Andrea set the crystal to spinning over the new map.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ashley stiffened and let out a worried little gasp.

Looking away from the sphere, Danica asked, "What's wrong?"

Ashley narrowed her eyes, concentrating on the sensation. "Someone is scrying. I can feel it -- they're very clumsy and inexperienced. It has to be another witch, but they obviously don't know much about what they're doing. The demons may sense it too."

Looking back into the sphere, Danica saw the demons within the vision shifting, looking around them and sniffing the air. "Not good," she muttered.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The crystal thudded down on the map, and then started to vibrate, creating an audible hum. A bright point of red light shone from the tip of the crystal as well.

"Oh, no," Andrea gasped.

"What is it?" Celes asked, having a bad feeling as well.

"I read about this in my book. That means there are demons somewhere near the person we were scrying for."

Standing up, Celes said, "And that means Danica could be in trouble. Hold on to your breakfast." With that, she grasped Andrea's hand and they vanished in a flash of light.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Marlena lay atop Brandon, sighing contentedly. She felt a little guilty about staying to make love to him again, rather than returning to help with the girls, but decided it was worth it. She could still feel the warm afterglow of her orgasms permeating her, and the even hotter sensation of his cream within her.

Brandon groaned, "I'm never going to be able to get up," and then chuckled.

"That was wonderful," Marlena sighed. "I don't want to move either, but I really should get cleaned up and get back."

"You could always take me back with you," Brandon chuckled.

The door burst open, and Marlena rolled off Brandon with a yelp of surprise. She grabbed for a blanket to cover herself and overbalanced, tumbling off the bed.

"Marlena, Danica may be in trouble," Celes burst out in a rush.

Sitting up, Marlena saw Celes and Andrea quickly walking in to the room, heading toward her. "What's wrong?"

"No time to explain. We've got to go -- now," Celes said, reaching for Marlena's hand.

Taking Celes' hand and standing, Marlena asked, "What about the girls?"

"They're just going to have to be okay on their own. There's no time to do anything else," Celes said impatiently, and then started speaking the words of a spell as Andrea took her other hand.

Recognizing the words of the spell, Marlena glanced about quickly, just snatching up her dress in time. A moment later, all three women vanished.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"The sensation is gone. Whoever was scrying has stopped," Ashley remarked.

Still peering into the crystal sphere, Danica said, "It may be too late."

Looking into the sphere, Ashley gasped, and dashed it out of Danica's hands. "Sorry, but I think they were homing in on its magic, now that they realize something is amiss."

"Maybe I should just teleport us out of here," Danica said, staring off into the distance, trying to see if she could see anything happening across the sands, where Ashley had explained the demons were.

"I can't leave, I may never have this chance again," Ashley said with obvious agitation and worry in her voice.

"All the same, we..." Danica stopped, spun around, and raised her hands, prepared to bring the power of her offensive runes to bear when a flash of light nearby caught her eye.

She dropped her hands when she realized who it was. Celes blurted out, "Danica, there are demons somewhere nearby."

"We know," Danica responded, raising her eyebrows at Marlena, who was trying to pull on her dress -- and had a conspicuous dribble of cum running down her right thigh.

"Were you the one scrying? Are you a witch?" Ashley asked.

"This is Ashley," Danica told her friends. "Yes, Celes and Andrea are witches."

"Aye, it was us scrying," Celes answered.

Turning to look across the sand in the direction of the elven village for a moment, Ashley turned back to the newcomers, asking, "Do you have powers? We may be up to our necks in demons in a few minutes."

Marlena screamed when that few minutes proved to be much shorter than anyone anticipated. Still trying to pull on her dress with her other hand, she pointed at the blue-skinned demon that had hurtled across the sand at impossible speed, and now stood within a few feet of the assembled women.

Andrea yelped and lashed out instinctively with her ice power. The demon froze in mid-leap, having turned to attack Ashley. It fell to the earth and exploded, spraying them all with blue-green ichor.

Wiping a bit of goo off her nose, Celes chuckled, "Good shot, Andrea."

"The rest of them will know what the speed demon knows. They'll be coming after us now," Ashley interjected, staring once again at the horizon. This time, she saw winged forms streaking toward them. "They're coming," she added, pointing at the rapidly approaching hellspawn.

"Get ready. Use cold spells," Danica said.

"That won't work, even on all of the minor demons, so be careful. If a tall one with red skin and ram's horns appears, leave him to me. I have a vanquishing potion that will destroy him."

Marlena finished pulling on her dress, and said, "I'm going to cast the mirror image spell. That should confuse them."

Ashley turned, shaking her head. "I know of that spell, it will confuse us as well."

"Not when Marlena casts it," Danica said.

Marlena finished the spell, having no obvious effect to the women. Concentrating in the second sight, she could see the outlines of the images -- six for each of them. "It's in place."

"I don't see anything," Ashley said in confusion.

"Marlena is really good at illusion spells. We can't see anything, and thus can't be thrown off by the images, but the demons will see them, and won't know where to attack," Danica explained.

"They're almost here," Andrea said, her voice full of nervous tension.

"Just freeze them like you did that first one, and you'll be fine," Celes encouraged her.

The demons swooped in, and Danica called upon her runes and released the magical cone of cold. Unfortunately, she'd chosen her target poorly, and the demon was one of those resistant to cold magic. It shrieked and dived toward her -- or rather several feet to her right, where one of the images of Danica only it could see stood.

A moment later, it slammed into an invisible wall, and then hurtled backwards. Celes' power shoved it into the path of another approaching demon, and they collided. Both demons erupted in an explosion, raining slime down over the sand.

Another of the hellish creatures shimmered into view some distance out into the desert, nearest to Andrea. Once again, she lashed out with her cold power. As with Danica before, she was unlucky in her target. The demon shrugged off the blast with a pained scream and turned toward her, staring in confusion at the multiple images of the blonde. That made Andrea mad, and released another of her powers. The orange-scaled demon tumbled across the sand, blasted away by Andrea's lightning stroke.

Danica was in mid-spell when all the creatures nearby suddenly froze in place, unmoving -- including the one tumbling head over heels from Andrea's blast of electricity. Ashley dropped her hands and said, "The rest should be vulnerable to cold, except for the orange one, and the green one with wings. Those should be hurt by lightning, and they'll all be hurt by witch powers, at least somewhat." With that, she hurled one of her vials of potion, vanquishing a brown-scaled demon overhead.

Danica finished her spell, aiming at one of the demons, which screamed and fell from the sky when the iceball spell exploded around it. Ashley followed up by tossing another vial of her vanquishing potion at it, destroying the demon.

Celes concentrated, bringing her hands together in a clapping motion. Two of the highest flying demons hurtled toward each other, exploding on contact. She heard a roar of flame, and saw another demon consumed by a blazing tongue of fire.

"Yes!" Andrea sang out, overjoyed that she'd managed to use her troublesome fire power, and quickly sought another target.

Danica turned toward the green winged demon, and started the words of the lightning bolt spell. Before she managed to get out half the words, a forked bolt of electrical fury hit the demon, dropping it twitching to the ground. She finished her spell, sending her bolt into it as well. Turning, she saw Marlena holding an amber rod, and knew the woman had cast the lightning bolt.

Ashley moved with impossible speed, appearing as little more than a blur, and tossed a vial of potion at the weakly twitching demon Marlena and Danica had blasted. Danica turned to see Andrea freeze another demon solid, and covered her face just in time to avoid getting an eye full of demon slime when the creature exploded.

A screech overhead caused all the women to look up, seeing a straggler that had been outside the reach of Ashley's power diving toward them. Celes gestured, and the creature vanished, only to reappear inches above the ground, several hundred feet away. It hit the ground at terminal velocity, exploding in a spray of sand and ichor.

"Nice trick, freezing them all like that. It made this a lot easier," Danica chuckled.

Pulling the red vial from her pouch, Ashley warned, "That was only the minor demons. There are four greater demons there as well."

The four creatures appeared in shimmers of light and bursts of flame, as if her words had summoned them. The demons were some distance out in the desert, and they ignored the mirror images, staring defiantly at the women -- stalking toward them.

Celes lashed out with her power, and a grossly fat demon froze for a moment, snarling. It didn't, however, vanish to reappear far out in the desert, as Celes had intended. "Uh oh," she muttered.

Andrea's flash of cold barely gave the same creature a moment's pause, but did leave its skin a pale, frost-rimed color. A stooped demon with a hunchback quickly shrugged off Danica's lightning bolt, and only appeared to move in slow motion for a fraction of a second when Ashley attempted to freeze the hellspawn in place with her power.

Ashley cursed and gripped the red vial in her hand. She prepared to rush toward Rexxus, using her power to speed up time around her so she could reach him in less time than the blink of an eye.

Rexxus recognized her, and could feel the danger in the vial she carried. Vanishing, he appeared next to her and lashed out with a clawed hand. Ashley crumpled, hurtling toward Danica, the vial sailing from her hand.

Diving on the unconscious Ashley, Danica shouted, "Get out of here!" She concentrated, using her telekinetic powers to snatch up the vial of red liquid from beneath the kneeling ram-horned demon's hand, and then teleported away with Ashley.

Celes grabbed Andrea and Marlena's hands, vanishing with them as well.

Rexxus screamed in rage, pounding the earth with his hands. The other three demons were destroying the warding charms around the oasis, which had been placed there by Ashley upon her arrival to prevent the demons from attacking with long-range powers. The same wards had prevented them from shimmering into the protective circle, until Rexxus had shattered that barrier.

"So close," Rexxus growled.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

I hope you're enjoying Book II in Danica's trilogy. Please take a moment to vote/comment, as that is the bread and butter of a free author — it's what keeps us writing! You can vote on every chapter. You certainly won't hear me complaining!

Big thanks to Roust Writer for his editing. I don't know how I got along without his keen eye, quick wit, and insight.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 04



Author's Notes:

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission. © Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended. There's no stroke-worthy sex scenes in this chapter, but I hope the story itself makes up for that.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ashley jerked her nose away from the strong smelling herbs beneath it, coughing and trying to get her vision to focus.

A woman's voice asked, "Are you okay?"

Slowly, Ashley's wits recovered, and she recognized Danica standing above her.

"That demon hit you pretty hard. I had to use some healing spells on you, because we couldn't get a potion in you," Danica explained. "Do you think you can get up?"

Groaning, Ashley replied, "I don't know. My head feels like it's stuffed full of something." With effort, and Danica's assistance, Ashley managed to sit up. "What happened? Everything is hazy."

Danica steadied the other woman, and related the final events of the battle in the desert. "We finished off all the minor demons, and then the four greater demons appeared. We didn't have anywhere near the sort of success in attacking them. One of them -- the one with the ram's horns -- appeared next to you and slammed you. We decided just to get out of there."

Putting her head in her hands, Ashley lamented, "The vial -- that was my one real hope of vanquishing Rexxus, and now it's gone."

Danica shook Ashley's shoulder, and when the red-haired witch looked up, Danica pulled the vial from her pocket. "I realized this was important, so I snatched it up with my telekinetic powers before we teleported away."

Ashley took the vial, cradling it in her hands. "Thank you. This required a drop of Rexxus' blood, and I don't think he would have ever let me get another."

"Do you want to try to get in the bath? You're still a mess. We cleaned up a little in shifts, but we were more worried about getting you back with us than getting all the demon slime off you."

"Thank you -- again. They do make a mess when they're vanquished, especially the minor demons," Ashley responded.

Celes stomped into the room, muttering under her breath. She nodded to Ashley, and then turned to Danica. "I swear, at least one of them has developed your mental powers, and knew the moment we were all gone from here. Their end of the manor is a disaster area, and the library isn't much better."

Danica shook her head. "We're going to have to make sure not to leave them alone again, at least until they've matured more." Seeing the confused look on Ashley's face, Danica told her, "I'll explain later. Let's get you in the bath, and find something for you to wear. I think you and Andrea have similar sizes, so some of her things should fit you well enough."

"Andrea is keeping an eye on the girls. We put them all in their rooms, and she's making sure they stay there. Marlena is in the bath." Celes' expression softened a little, and she added, "She was already a mess before the demons. Andrea and I interrupted her at a rather bad moment."

Danica chuckled, "I noticed. Who?"

"Brandon," Celes answered. " I'll go fetch something from Andrea's trunks for you, Ashley." Giving a little nod, she turned and left the room.

Sliding her legs off the bed, at Danica's urging, Ashley asked, "Where are we?"

Danica shrugged her shoulders and replied, "Home. We honestly don't even know where it is. A dream led us here, and as far as we can tell, there's no way to reach it except by teleporting." When Ashley appeared to be steady enough to stand, Danica crossed the room to her tub, touching the runes to fill it with water. "Come get in the bath. I'm sure it will make you feel better."

Ashley smiled weakly and walked toward the tub. When she saw it was full and steaming, she looked over at Danica in surprise.

Danica winked, and said, "Magic. I made this place, with a lot of help, and I wanted to be comfortable. This is one of those little luxuries. Every bedroom has one. Get out of those clothes and get in."

"Here's something to put on when you get out," Celes called from the doorway, entering with a bundle of clothing. "I grabbed a blouse and skirt, because I think any of Andrea's dresses would have been too tight in the waist for you. This should fit fine, as you're otherwise almost of a size."

Ashley fumbled with the first button of her blouse, finding she couldn't grip it, as it was coated in slimy demon ichor. Scrunching up her nose, she grabbed the neck of the blouse, and started popping the buttons off it.

Danica's eyes were immediately drawn to the swell of Ashley's firm breasts when they were revealed, though she averted her gaze quickly. Her eyes locked with Ashley when she did, and she knew the glance had not gone unnoticed. The faintest edges of a smile touched Ashley's lips as she continued to pop open the buttons.

Danica quickly said, "We'll let you take your bath. Just come out when you're done, and we'll all go talk in the study over a snack and some wine."

Ashley nodded and shrugged off her blouse. Danica walked toward the door, getting a good view of the pink tips of Ashley's ample breasts in the process. When she reached Celes, the other woman turned to leave the room with her. They both glanced back over their shoulders at the same moment, just in time to see Ashley bend and drop her skirt to the floor, revealing a rounded, shapely bottom.

Celes let out a quiet purr when she closed the door and whispered, "Not a bad view."

"Mmm hmm," Danica agreed, winking at her friend. "Let's go ahead to the study. You can tell me what happened while I was gone."

"And you can tell us how your trip went," Celes agreed. "We'll get one of the mirrors to watch over the girls, and fetch Andrea too. Marlena should be out of the bath in a minute, and I'm sure she'll come looking for us."

"So much for peaceful studying, huh?" Danica laughed, as they turned into the door of the study.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Rexxus cowered before Meckataur, along with the other three greater demons involved in the desert battle. "There were three witches, and two other magic using females. They were prepared for us, and fled before we could assault them in strength."

"I know what happened," Meckataur rumbled. "Those lost are of no consequence, and the elves remain yet unaware. The Devil lashed out with his mental reigns over his minions, dragging the three silent demons to their feet. "Go. Return to watch the Fey." Turning his gaze toward the grossly obese, gray-skinned hellspawn to the right of Rexxus, Meckataur ordered, "Invade their minds, Kazz'akel, but do so while they rest. Discover anything they may hide, and whether any females remain untouched."

"Yes, Lord Meckataur," Kazz'akel hissed.

The Demon Lord waved his hand, and the three demons vanished in bursts of flame. "Rexxus, the pawn of the Fey will seek you with the potion again. You are too important a tool to risk. Take mortal form."

Rexxus snarled in disgust, but obeyed the order. Wings folded, the bones popping, to be absorbed into the demon's back. Claws shrank back into his fingers and toes, while the demon's prized horns vanished into its head. Rexxus snarled and growled from the pain of the transformation, writhing on the floor.

At last, the panting Rexxus, now appearing as a leanly muscled man with hair the color of flax, rose back up to his hands and knees again.

"Eris, Mache -- come," Meckataur ordered.

Two muscular men emerged from a side portal of the dilapidated Great Hall. Both had dark blonde hair, though one was dressed in fine clothing, while the other wore a mismatched outfit of well-worn garments. They bowed before Mecktaur, not even offering a glance to the nude man kneeling before him.

Meckataur jerked on Rexxus' reins, and the demon stood. "These have transcended. You will deliver them to Ebonar. Then, you shall watch this pretender to Zoraster's empire, and monitor my spawn. Go."

"Yes, Lord Meckataur," Rexxus responded.

The Demon Lord vanished in a roar of flames, leaving his minions to obey his orders. He reappeared instantly, deep in the bowels of the earth beneath his crumbing abode. Here, beyond the dungeons where his prisoners wished for death, beyond the crypts that housed his army of the dead, lay Meckataur's greatest power.

Staring down into the pit, a hole wider than a man's height and filled with a darkness blacker than night, Meckataur waited. A flash of light and the sound of weeping let the Demon know his wizardess pawn had arrived.

The weeping ceased, as it usually did, long before Arleen magically dragged the woman before Meckataur. The weak mortals' minds couldn't bear the presence of the Demon Lord, and their brains simply shut down.

They always awakened in their final moments of life, however, allowing him to drink in their tortured anguish.

Meckataur needed to pull forth more of the minor demons from the abyss, and the woman's blood was the key. The hellspawn maintained a link to their hellish plane when pulled from this portal, giving them greater power. They were the secret to Meckataur's rapid rise through the demonic ranks on this plane, and would be the means through which he would rule this world.

Soon enough, he would have the key that opened the portal wide -- the blood of highborn virgin Fey. Sacrificed on the right day, the Fey blood would tear apart the barrier between the planes, allowing Meckataur to summon forth hordes of demons at will. Then, the mortals on this globe would become as cattle for his hordes, as he spread his rule throughout the entire plane.

Savoring that thought, Meckataur grasped the sacrifice, and held her limp body over the pit in one enormous hand. For now, he needed demons to replace those lost, and this woman's life would serve well enough.

Arleen turned away, as she always did, trying to ignore the final, pitiful scream of the victim, and the sound of the Devil literally wringing the blood out of the sacrifice.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica hugged Marlena, and congratulated her, "I saw you cast that lightning bolt. I knew you could do it!"

Blushing, Marlena admitted, "Celes helped me with the part where I was making a mistake."

Celes added, "She's studying the permanency spell, too. I think you've finally gotten through to her. Just because she's better at illusion magic than anyone else living, it doesn't mean she can't learn other things."

"That was a pretty impressive display of your telekinetic powers, Celes." Seeing Andrea walking into the room, Danica added, "And a blast of fire that would make a red dragon proud, too!"

Andrea's face turned bright red, though she tried to put on a smug expression, and blew on her fingertips in a superior fashion. She laughed a moment later, unable to keep a straight face.

"It's not really telekinesis," Celes argued, "It doesn't feel anything like..."

Danica raised her eyebrows and interrupted, "You move things without touching them. It's as good a word as any, and it beats moving stuff, your preferred term for that power."

Celes blew a raspberry, drawing a laugh from the assembled friends.

"I don't think we should be too hard on the girls," Andrea said, sitting down heavily in a cushioned chair. "They seem to understand why they're in trouble, and I think they're actually sorry."

"We should probably keep up the pretense for this evening, at least. If we roll over too soon, the lesson will be lost on them," Marlena advised.

Celes sat down in her normal place on the couch, asking Danica, "So, did you manage to get everyone somewhere safe?"

Danica sat down and answered, "Tonda and Jaron are both safe on Darkni's island, and Harkhuf set up Tari and Rekhmire in his house. I got a warning to the Pharaoh about Zoraster's men too. Clexis was the one Zoraster sent there, and I think I've managed to put a serious roadblock in his way."

Celes smiled and said, "Good, that man is scum."

"Come in and sit down," Andrea piped up, seeing Ashley in the doorway. "That looks good on you. You can have it if you want."

Celes turned toward Ashley, as the woman sat down. "Danica told me that it was our scrying that alerted the demons. Sorry about that."

"It's okay, things happen for a reason. You do need a little practice, though," Ashley advised. "You have to concentrate hard on what you're scrying for, or any demon within the circle of the crystal may feel it."

"We're having to figure it out on our own. Our mothers didn't get the chance to teach us," Andrea sighed.

Ashley smiled sympathetically. "I lost my mother when I was very young, too. An older witch taught me. She suffered an injury that made it impossible for her to fight, and bound most of her powers to hide from the demons. She knows her craft, though, and taught me everything I know. I'm worried about her. I don't know how much Rexxus knows about me, and he might try to use Edna to lure me into a trap."

"I seem to be making a career out of hiding people away, maybe I can help," Danica offered.

"I don't know if Edna would even let me hide her away, but I appreciate the offer." Sitting back in her chair, Ashley let her eyes roam to each of the women. "You know, I can't help but feel like you're all familiar."

Rubbing her chin, Celes said, "I get a sense of that too."

Danica could feel an ever-increasing wave of anxiety coming from Ashley, and could hear the source of that anxiety in the woman's mind. The red-haired witch was more worried about her mentor than she was letting on. "Maybe you should go see if Edna is okay."

"I have this terrible feeling she's in danger," Ashley admitted.

Danica asked, "Why don't you let us come along, for backup, just in case? Maybe she could give Celes and Andrea some pointers."

"I'll stay and watch the girls," Marlena interjected. "I don't think it would be a good idea to leave them alone again."

Ashley shrugged and said, "My potion will only take me back. I expected to be alone out there in the desert, except for the demons."

"Let us take you then," Danica said, standing up. "Is there something where Edna lives that you can see in your mind's eye, in the tiniest detail?"

Ashley nodded and answered, "Her herb cabinet. I could tell you the exact position of every bottle inside, and every scratch and blemish in the wood."

Having reached out with her psychic powers, Danica could see the image of the cabinet in Ashley's mind. "If you don't mind me peeking into your head, I can use that as a pattern to teleport us there."

"You've probably already seen it, I'd wager," Ashley said with a smile, and then added, "Edna is telepathic. That's her primary power, and the only one she didn't bind. I'm quite used to it."

"I'd like to go," Andrea said, "It would do us good, I think."

Ashley flipped her drying hair back over her shoulders and said, "It would get me there quicker. It would take me almost an hour to walk from my house to Edna's, and I'm really worried about her. You might be able to distract her a little, too. When she finds out I went after Rexxus, she's not going to be happy with me."

"Let's go, then," Danica said, gesturing at everyone to stand.

The women gathered in the center of the room, and clasped hands in a circle. Danica held one of Ashley's hands, and squeezed it, saying, "Just think about that herb cabinet."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Edna paced, muttering to herself, and wincing from the arthritis in her knees. "Fool girl, what have you gone and done now."

She'd known something was wrong the moment she awakened that morning, and knew it had something to do with Ashley. A few spins of a crystal revealed the young woman was far away, on another continent entirely. Subsequent scrying attempts revealed no change, until the last one. Ashley had simply vanished, and the old witch had given up in frustration.

A flash of light caused Edna to spin, reaching with her one remaining arm into a pocket of her apron, for one of the powerful vanquishing potions she kept there.

"It's me, Edna. Sorry to startle you, but I was worried," Ashley said, stepping away from the circle toward her mentor.

"You were worried?" Edna scolded. "Do you have any idea..." The old woman trailed off, staring hard at Celes and Andrea.

Ashley said, "I'll explain in a minute, but this is Danica..."

"Andrea, and Celes," Edna finished. She let out hearty laugh when all four women stared at her, dumbfounded. Turning to Ashley, she expanded, "Andrea Trueheart, and Celes Hartwell."

Narrowing her eyes, Celes asked, "How did you know that?"

"An old witch has her ways," Edna replied with a wink, tapping her forehead. "You feel like you know them, don't you, Ashley? I told you that you were meant to do important things."

"You can't mean..." Ashley began.

Edna nodded to Ashley, and then turned to the other two witches. "The two of you have your family books, don't you?"

"Yes," Andrea answered.

"Ashley probably never told you her name. It's Lovehart, and the universe has been waiting for your three families to find each other for ages now." Clapping her hand against her thigh, Edna spun in a circle, laughing, feeling younger than she had in two decades. When she came to face Ashley again, she said, "Let's go get your book and fulfill your destiny!"

Danica laughed a little self-consciously, and turned to her blonde-haired friend. "I think I know how you used to feel, Andrea -- being the only one of us who didn't have magic. Now I'm the only one in the room who isn't a witch, and I feel like I don't belong."

This make you feel a little less out of place? Edna thought to Danica.

Not really, but I appreciate the effort, Danica thought back, with a little mental chuckle.

You have a strong mind. I wouldn't want to have to cross your powers, and I've been doing this my whole life.

"That prophecy is vague, and there are a thousand versions of it, Edna," Ashley said, but she didn't really sound convincing.

"You won't know until the three of you are in the same place with your family books, now will you?" Edna wagged her finger at Ashley to emphasize the point.

Danica smiled, thinking about how much the old witch reminded her of her mother with that gesture. "You may as well stop arguing now, Ashley. You've already lost this argument, trust me."

Ashley looked like she was about to argue, but then her shoulders slumped and she sighed. "Okay, let's go get my book. I'm never going to hear the end of it until I do."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

C'seka perked up, feeling the familiar sensation of the female using the Hellgate. Almost immediately, he recoiled, feeling the burning presence of others near the female. Though C'seka didn't know what caused the feeling within him, he knew that those with the female were very dangerous to him.

In the moment he was cowering instinctively, the contact vanished. The sensation was abrupt, and somehow C'seka knew the spell had not terminated. The demon snarled in frustration, having been eager to learn more about this particular female's gate, which called to him louder than any other.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 04



A second Hellgate, opened by another wizard, filled C'seka's senses. This gate was close -- far closer than any the demon had ever sensed before. C'seka appeared to vibrate and shake apart, eventually becoming transparent and vanishing entirely. When the process reversed, C'seka instinctively knew where he was, inside the second Hellgate he had sensed.

Reaching out with his senses, he connected with the master of the gate. A wicked, toothy smile spread across the demon's face, as it realized that this gate belonged to his Master's pet wizardess, Arleen. Seeing what she found desirable in her mind, C'seka shifted form, becoming the vision of male perfection in Arleen's mind.

As Arleen used the Hellgate's ability to spy upon some mortals, C'seka psychically spied upon her.

He learned much of her -- and their Master, in that time.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Edna and Ashley both stood close to each other, looking extremely uncomfortable. Edna shook her head and said, "I can't believe I'm standing in a Hellgate."

Ashley nodded her agreement, and asked, "Where are the demons?"

Danica answered over her shoulder while adjusting the focus of the gate to the valley she called home, "I told them I didn't want to see their faces ever again, unless I called for them. They got the point."

The image in the portal shimmered, revealing the valley, and the manor. "There it is. I'm sorry we had to use the Hellgate, I know it's making both of you uncomfortable. We have no way of knowing if the valley will let Edna in, though. I don't relish the thought of slamming into a wall, trying to teleport normally."

Ashley asked, "How did you know it would let me in?"

"I didn't," Danica replied. "I teleported us to somewhere else I knew, and then pulled you through the Hellgate to test it. I didn't even have to ask the valley to let you in, it just did. Well, let's go. I'm sure both of you are ready to get out of here."

"May as well get this out of the way," Edna said, stepping forward. "Judging from what I'm seeing, and what I think it is, though, I'm not going to have any trouble at all." With that, Edna stepped through the portal, into the valley beyond.

The rest of the women followed, and Danica closed the Hellgate once they were all through. Ashley stared in wonder, while Edna had an expression akin to reverence on her face.

Ashley noticed her mentor's expression, and asked, "What is it?"

"It's beautiful, isn't it," Edna asked, ignoring Ashley's question.

"Yes," Ashley replied.

"Glad you like it, because we're going to be staying for a while," Edna laughed. She hugged her arm tight about her, and then said to the assembled -- and rather confused -- women around her, "Let's get the three of you, and your books, all in one place."

Edna moved unerringly toward the front door of the manor. After a few moments of staring at each other and shrugging, the rest of the women followed.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ebonar stood to greet the demons, having been informed of their impending arrival by Meckataur's wizardess. "Welcome -- Eris, and Mache. I believe I have the perfect positions in which to place the both of you, so that you may study humans, and learn their ways."

Mache, the better dressed of the pair, smiled and said, "I would learn the ways of human females."

Eris glanced at Mache and chuckled darkly.

"Such is not your purpose here," Rexxus warned.

Both demonic siblings turned the demon, scowling. Folding his arms before him, Eris asked, "Who are you, to command us?"

Nodding with only a slightly deferential air, Rexxus clarified, "I simply remind you of Meckataur's wishes."

Stepping toward the demons, Ebonar interjected, "Meckataur seeks for them to learn the ways of humans. That particular interaction is one of their studies, and they may as well undertake it sooner, rather than later. Do you not agree?"

"I have done my duty," Rexxus growled, and walked out of the room.

Why do you not simply shift out of the room, Rexxus? Do you truly believe I don't know exactly who you are? Shifting his gaze from Rexxus' retreating back, Ebonar addressed Mache, "I believe you would be well suited to the training of a gentleman soldier. I will place you with my own guard, for the moment, and then have you enrolled in the Forge when the time is right. Is this acceptable?"

"It is acceptable," Mache replied.

"Excellent!" Ebonar clapped his hands, and a man appeared in the doorway of the room. "My servant will escort you to your temporary quarters." Turning to the servant, Ebonar added, "Have Rebecca sent to him, once he is settled."

"Yes, Master," the servant replied, with a deep bow.

"Rebecca will teach you the ways of human females -- quite well."

Grinning, Mache spun on his heel and walked toward the servant.

Turning to the second demon, Ebonar said, "I have the perfect place for you. Tell me, does an occupation as a murderer interest you?"

"Very much," Eris replied.

Pulling a disk of platinum from his pocket, Ebonar hurled it to the side, speaking a word of command. The coin froze in the air, and expanded into a portal of shimmering light. Gesturing to the portal, Ebonar said, "Shall we?" Without awaiting a response, he walked toward the portal.

Eris followed, and they emerged in a darkened room with natural cavern walls. Eris took in his surroundings, and noticed the false door almost immediately, although it blended perfectly with the wall.

The hidden portal slid aside, and a dark cloaked man stepped in front of it. "Welcome, Ebonar. This way."

The shadowy figure vanished on soundless feet, obviously anticipating he would be followed. Ebonar stepped through the doorway, followed by the demon.

Sweeping his hand across the room, Ebonar said, "Welcome to the newly reborn Guild of Death. I believe you will feel right at home here."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"We should get the mirror, in case the girls start acting up," Marlena suggested.

Waving her hand in a dismissive gesture, old Edna said, "They will behave." Turning to Ashley, Celes, and Andrea, who stood around a table holding their family books of spells, Edna said, "Place the books on the table."

Andrea looked excited, but Celes and Ashley both rolled their eyes as they followed the elder witch's instructions.

"Now is the moment of truth -- and destiny. Join hands, and then move your joined hands over the table. Your right hand should be positioned over your own book." Edna's voice grew more excited with each word.

The three witches around the table did as Edna directed. Everyone in the room gasped when the insignia on the covers of all three books began to shimmer with light. The three sigils, all variations of a stylized heart, glowed ever brighter by the moment. The rose-colored light continued to filter from beneath the covers when all three books opened of their own accord, the pages moving as if blown by a stiff breeze.

When the pages ceased to turn, all three books were open to an identical entry. Though the position in the book varied between the three volumes, and all were written in different hands, even the slightest glance revealed them to be the same spell.

Edna's voice sounded younger -- stronger -- and full of conviction, "You must say the spell of your own free will. The words of this spell will join the three of you, and increase your powers. You are chosen -- but you must accept the rewards, and the burdens, which come with this choice. Joined -- three as one -- you will have the strength to face what is to come. Without it..." Edna paused, and took a deep breath before continuing, "Without it, none can determine what will come to pass."

Looking at the other two witches around the table, Andrea said, "This feels right. Why else would all our books have this spell? Why would we have found each other like we did, if not for this reason?"

"I never really believed in the prophecy, until now," Ashley said softly.

"Things happen..." Celes began.

"For a reason," all six women said in unison, breaking out into smiles.

Celes squeezed the hands of her fellow witches. "Let's do this."

Andrea and Ashley both nodded. The three witches looked down, studying the spell. Without a word, they all knew when they were ready, and they said the spell together.





Sisters of the Mists Ch. 04



Edna stood to follow the girls and keep an eye on them. "Go get Marlena, and then come to the girls' side of the manor once the dishes are done. Bring your family books. Between the four of them, and what all of you remember, maybe we can figure out what sort of demons you'll be up against out there in the desert."

"I probably know more about Rexxus than anyone, so I can tell you much about him and his powers," Ashley revealed. "I couldn't find the other demons, though."

"You shouldn't have run off on your own without telling me," Edna chided. "They may be in my book, and I could have helped you. With two more tomes to look through, odds are we'll find all three."

"I'll go get Marlena, then," Danica said, and then groaned as she got up, her full belly protesting the action.

"And we'll get started on the dishes," Andrea added.

Clearing her mind, Danica focused on the image of Blackhawk Hall's teleportation pattern as everyone else went to their tasks. Danica vanished on the wings of magic a few moments later, to reappear in the faraway keep.

Stepping out of the portal room, Danica nearly collided with a young man who was coming into the room. "I'm sorry," she apologized, and almost immediately heard his mind racing.

Wow, look at those boobs! They're huge! I wonder if she'll be staying overnight? Maybe she'll go to the bath and I can sneak a look at those tits and her pussy.

Christi walked up behind her son, bopping him on top of the head. "Stop staring. You're going to be late for sword practice if you don't hurry up. Your father will run you into the ground if you aren't down in the courtyard on time."

"Okay, Mom," he replied, taking one last, longing glance at Danica's chest, before running past his mother, out into the hall.

Christi sighed, "He's getting to be a chore. I'll be glad when he goes through his adulthood recognition ceremony this winter, so I can work on getting him married off. I've already had to warn every female in the keep, and I'm thinking I may have to warn the whole city soon. That's my oldest, Matthias."

"He's that age," Danica chuckled.

"Cerebus said he just needs to get it out of his system, so his brain will work again, and then we can explain that he needs to be careful. We don't need any unexpected heirs turning up." Glancing back over her shoulder at the retreating young man, she added, "I'm going to have Cerebus go ahead and take him down to the city, and let him work off all that pent up lust at one of the better bawdy houses. It will do him some good, and give one of the girls some bragging rights to drum up extra business."

"Sounds like you have it worked out," Danica laughed. "Has Marlena been up and about yet?"

A crooked grin spreading across her face, the Duchess replied, "Up, yes. The only about she's gotten around to is going to the bath, though. They went at it like rabbits all night, and started right back in this morning. Brandon is down in the courtyard with Cerebus, so at least she won't be wasting that bath. The men will be down there for hours drilling Matthias. How have you been?"

"We're all doing fine," Danica replied. She laughed then, and added, "Not as well as it sounds like Marlena has been doing the last two days, but well, all the same."

Gesturing for Danica to follow, Christi turned and started down the hall. "I've been meaning to see if I could get someone to contact all of you. We've been getting all sorts of disturbing reports from our spies, and I thought all of you might be able to shed some light on some of them."

Danica asked, "Zoraster's people?"

Christi nodded. "We think so, anyway. Things are going to come to a head quickly if it keeps up like this. Draxnog and Ferrartene have stopped searching for volunteers and have started conscripting. Despite everything we've shown them, we can't get Freeland or anyone else to make any overt counter-moves, either."

Danica followed Christi into a room and over to a desk while the Duchess continued. "We're preparing for war, and the others are taking steps, but if they don't start taking this deadly serious, we're all going to be in trouble." Picking up a stack of papers, Christi said, "These are the ones I wanted you to look at."

Accepting the documents, Danica leafed through them. Her brow furrowed as she saw several things that absolutely reeked of Zoraster's style. "I'll take them back with me and let you know what we think. You're right, though, Zoraster's people have their hands in a lot of this. Even dead, he's still a threat."

"I appreciate it," the Duchess responded. "If Draxnog moves, he's going to try to run over us first. Any information we have will help."

"Mom, the lady in the bath says she needs a towel," rang out a voice from the doorway.

"You know where they are, don't you, Jennica?" Christi asked, looking down at the little blonde girl.

"Uh huh," Jennica replied, nodding her head.

"Then go get one for Marlena," Christi said slowly, with obvious amusement in her voice. Then her brow furrowed, and she asked, "Who's watching Dax?"

Jennica spun back around, as she had already started out the door to fetch a towel. "Kronk's giving him a piggy back ride."

"Okay, take Marlena a towel, and tell her Danica is here with me."

"'K, Mom," Jennica said, and skipped out of the room.

Turning back to Danica, Christi said, "She's eleven. She'll be as much trouble as Matthias, soon. She's already started flirting with the guards. Dax is five, and he's like a whirlwind, leaving disaster in his wake everywhere he goes."

"At least you don't have a dozen, some of whom are starting to develop powers," Danica laughed.

"Gods forbid," Christi laughed, sitting down in a nearby chair. "Ashtar is supposed to be coming this evening." Christi paused for a moment, letting a sly smile spread across her face. "You could stay overnight and catch up with him. I know you're old friends. I have the perfect place for you to sleep tonight."

The Duchess knew of Danica's powers, and quite purposely let her thoughts turn to Danica. Those thoughts were very erotic, and very tempting. Danica shivered, letting out a little purr. "I'd love to, but there's something we need to do. That's why I'm here to get Marlena so early."

"Consider the invitation to stand until you can accept it. Cerebus and I nearly broke the bed, fantasizing about sharing it with you, after we both met you."

"If you don't stop that, I'm gong to forget why I'm here," Danica responded, with a twitch of her eyebrows.

"That wouldn't bother me at all," Christi said, and punctuated it with a laugh. She then stood up and said, "Care for some wine while we wait for Marlena to get here? It's good, but I have to warn you that it's Vladamir's vintage, so it kicks like a mule."

Danica playfully admonished, "Are you trying to get me drunk, now?"

Throwing Danica a coquettish look over her shoulder, Christi said, "If I was, I wouldn't have warned you about how strong it is."

They both laughed and settled in with their wine to await Marlena's emergence from the bath.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Well, well -- two of you this time, I see," Ebonar mused, watching Danica chat with the Duchess in one mirror, and Marlena lathering her breasts in the other. He chuckled, finding both amusement and arousal in the suggestive banter between the Duchess and Danica.

Ebonar suddenly stiffened, his eyes locking -- unseeing. When his muscles relaxed again, a wide smile spread across his lips.

In a flash of light, he vanished, to set things in motion.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"You're relentless," Danica laughed, as Christi once again managed to connect their conversation to the two of them climbing into bed.

"Cerebus and I have been too busy to find company for our bed, lately. I figure the perfect way to fix that is to combine business with pleasure."

"I think I'm going to have to come back here -- very soon," Danica said, letting her desire creep into her voice. Though Danica was determined to fight the urges that the Awakening caused in her, there seemed to be little point in resisting the Duchess. There were no deeper expectations in Christi's mind, beyond the chance to share Danica with her husband. What concerned Danica most was when her desires caused others to react in ways contrary to their nature. It was obvious that Christi's heated passion was her norm.

"That's what I wanted to hear," Christi laughed. "I'll ease up a little, now."

"Marlena probably has the right idea, anyhow," Danica remarked, and shrugged. We all should probably get out a bit, or we'll start getting on each other's nerves."

"She should be out..." Christi bit off the last word, replacing it with a curse as she jumped up out of her chair.

Danica noticed the flash of light as well, and saw exactly what Christi did, a woodland troll appearing in the room. Another popped into existence a few feet away, hot on the heels of the first.

Lashing out instinctively with her telekinetic powers, Danica slammed the first creature into the ceiling. The pitiful monster didn't even have time to realize what had happened to it before the rap of its head on the ceiling stole its wits, and the fall to the floor stole its life, breaking the troll's neck.

Christi rolled under a table, away from the trolls, and came up with a sword in her hand, pulled from its hiding place below the table. Though there was no outward display, the Duchess had to assume Danica was responsible when the second woodland troll sailed across the room to hit the wall. Another flash of light right next to her drew Christi's attention a moment later.

Danica heard two screams. The first sounded like a little girl, and the second sounded like Marlena. "Marlena," she gasped.

"Jennica!" Christi screamed, and slashed the troll in front of her. The lightning quick strikes severed the creature's manhood and opened its throat. The monster didn't even have time to realize it was dead before Christi kicked it out of the way and sprinted out into the hall.

Danica followed, immediately speaking the words of a spell, when she saw one of the trolls with its claws dug into a serving woman's arm. Her magic missiles thudded into the creature's arm, stealing its strength, and allowed the servant to pull free.

A thunderous bellow caused Danica to turn, and she breathed a sigh of relief, which the Duchess echoed. A huge man stood over Jennica, and a small boy that Danica assumed must be Dax. He snatched up a troll in one huge hand, gripping the monster's face, and slammed it into the wall next to him. The troll's head burst open, and it fell atop a second corpse already lying on the ground.

A loud rumble, accompanied by a bright flash of light, echoed from behind a closed door, a little past the half-ogre and the children.

Christi shouted, "Stay with Kronk. Jennica, get the daggers out of his boots."

"Okay, Momma," Jennica replied, with a quaver of fear in her voice. She moved to obey, however, and pulled two daggers from the big man's boot sheathes. Kronk pulled a long knife from a sheathe at his waist at the same time.

Danica spun back around, having seen the edges of another flash. Yet another woodland troll hurtled down the hall, to bounce hard off the wall at the other end.

Christi gestured at the door down the hall and growled, "The baths."

Danica nodded, and followed the Duchess down the hall. Christi tried the door handle, but it was locked.

"Stand back," Danica warned.

Christi danced back out of the way, and Danica concentrated, blowing the door open with her powers. Both women dashed into the room to see a smoking troll lying on the ground. Beyond that, they saw Marlena, leaning against the huge bathing pool, nursing claw slashes running from her shoulder down to her bare right breast.

"Are you okay?" Danica asked, quickly moving toward her friend.

Marlena weakly nodded.

Another troll appeared, right next to Christi, and she stabbed it in the chest. Quickly pulling the sword free, she slashed the monster's throat for good measure.

Danica grabbed a washcloth and quickly -- but carefully -- washed Marlena's wound. All the while, her eyes darted, looking for more monsters.

Christi let her guard down when the sounds of fighting ceased, and no more creatures appeared. "I can't believe somebody is pulling this -- again," she snarled. She spun around, hearing footsteps, but relaxed when she saw Kronk and her two children.

"Ma Ma," Dax cried, and ran to her.

Christi held out her free arm and pulled the boy close when he reached her. "It's okay, Dax. All the filthy, stinking trolls are gone now."

"It doesn't look too bad. Let me get you a healing potion," Danica said to Marlena.

"Take a look at this," Kronk said to Christi, nodding down at Jennica.

Christi looked, and a wide smile spread across her lips. One of the daggers Jennica held had a smear of troll blood on it.

"It come up behind me. The little wildcat cut its hamstring before I could turn," Kronk laughed, and tussled Jennica's hair.

"That's my girl," Christi beamed.

By the time Marlena lowered the potion bottle, her wounds were healed. She accepted her robe from Danica and said, "Thank you."

"The hell are these things?" Christi said, and picked up a crude, wooden amulet from the floor, next to the last troll she had killed. The strike that had cut the monster's throat had also severed the crude thong attached to the amulet. "This thing is making my skin crawl."

Danica walked over while Marlena dressed, but didn't recognize the rough carving on the wood. She slipped into the second sight, and said, "It's blessed -- or rather cursed -- by a dark god."

"A woodland troll -- with a blessed amulet?" Christi scoffed.

Danica turned to look at the other smoldering troll. "That one has one too."

"Everybody alright?" A gruff voice called from the doorway.

Danica looked back to see the Duke, who had spoken, standing in the doorway with Brandon and Matthias. They all had swords in hand, and none of the blades were clean.

"We're fine," Christi replied.

"Fucking Draxnog," Mindblind growled.

"He doesn't learn any new tricks, does he?" Christi agreed. She smiled then, and pointed at her daughter. "Jennica got a good slash in. Hamstrung one of the filthy things."

"Ha! That's my girl," the Duke grunted. He swung an elbow into Matthias' ribs, and added, "The boy got a little bit more practice today than we expected. He got two of 'em."

Danica asked, "I take it this has happened before?"

"Years ago, before Matthias was even born," Christi answered. "Thanks for the help. Nice power you've got there."

"More worthwhile than mine," Marlena sighed. "It ignored my illusions. That's how it got to me."

"It didn't ignore that lightning bolt, though," Danica responded, nodding toward the blackened troll.

"It was a near thing," Marlena argued.

Danica immediately countered Marlena's self-depreciation, "You were naked. Unless you had an amber rod and some fur stashed somewhere, you cast that bolt without them."

Marlena's eyes widened, and she smiled. "I didn't even think about it."

"I know I didn't manage that on my third attempt. So quit putting yourself down, or I'll have to spank you," Danica playfully warned.

"I do that a lot, don't I?" Marlena said, apologetically. 

"Matthias, why don't you take Dax," Christi suggested.

"Okay, Mother. Come here, Dax, you little terror," Matthias called.

The boy ran to his brother, and the two of them walked out of the room.

Christi walked over to Danica and said, "We've got to get this mess cleaned up, and get everybody organized, so we'll be ready if it happens again."

Nodding her understanding, Danica said, "We should get back, too. Everyone is expecting us. I'll get back with you about those reports you gave me."

"Going to deliver the news yourself?" Christi asked, with a twitch of her eyebrows.

"Maybe," Danica replied, and then laughed when she couldn't keep a straight face.

"We should find out what we can about those amulets," Christi suggested, nodding toward the one she'd dropped to the floor.

"A cleric or priest should be able to tell which god blessed it," Danica advised.

Inclining her head in acknowledgment Christi said, "We'll do that, then. See you soon."

"I'll stop by and say hello when I have more time, Brandon," Danica said, taking Marlena's hand.

"I was starting to think you didn't like me anymore," Brandon teased. Turning to the other redhead, he winked and added, "Nice lightning bolt, Marlena. You cooked that sucker good. All he needs is an apple in his mouth."

"I'd better get you out of here, before that rogue really turns on his charm," Danica remarked, giving Marlena's hand a little squeeze. Sending her thoughts immediately afterward, Danica added, Your face is going to ache if you keep smiling like that. Are you falling for him?

"No," Marlena answered aloud, color rising in her cheeks.

"No, what?" Brandon asked.

"Got to go," Danica declared with a mischievous grin. The words of a teleport spell rolled off her lips immediately afterward, and she vanished with Marlena, from the room.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ebonar growled and dismissed the image in the mirror. He had hoped that Danica would take one of the amulets with her. Through that link to Blorcasir, it might have been possible to trace her and discover her hiding place. The inspiration for the idea had not been his, of course, but the plan had.

"We will discover her den, soon enough," Ebonar heard a voice behind him say.

Ebonar immediately spun, dropping to one knee as he did so. "Master."

Stepping from the shadows, Zoraster Arias commanded, "Rise, Ebonar. We have much to do."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

I hope you're enjoying Book II in Danica's trilogy. Please take a moment to vote/comment — it's what keeps us writing! Individual chapter votes can tell me a lot, so do vote on every chapter if you wish.

Big thanks to Roust Writer for his editing. I don't know how I got along without his keen eye, quick wit, and insight.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 05



Author's Notes:

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission. © Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"It is good to see you fully recovered, Master," Ebonar said, as he rose to his feet.

"Dying and having your soul shot across the world can be a trying experience. I expected as much, having watched Camilla experience it," Zoraster responded absently, glancing at various mirrors and activating them with his thoughts.

"Will you resume your rightful place here, Master?"

"No. This plays to my advantage. So long as the world believes Zoraster Arias dead, they will fail to account for me in planning to counter my work." Zoraster waved his hand, and all the mirrors went dark. "You have done well in reviving the Guild of Death. The surge of power awakened my mind almost immediately when the first human pledged his loyalty to the Lord of Murder."

"I must say that you look well, Master," Ebonar noted with a smile.

"Indeed," Zoraster laughed, brushing at an imaginary spot on his robes. "Magic can only do so much to reverse the rigors of aging upon the body. I had no idea how much time had affected me until I awakened in this young body. Had I known, I would have purposely transferred my mind into this clone body long ago."

Zoraster stiffened and closed his eyes. A smile spread across his face as he reached out with his senses to touch magic put in place some time ago. When he opened his eyes, he said to Ebonar, "You will have another visit from Meckataur's pawn, soon. Another of his spawn has matured."

"They will be fine tools, Master."

"Tools I will not underestimate, as I did Danica," Zoraster said in low voice, with his brow furrowing. "Gather my most learned students of the True Runes. I have a task for them. Inform no one of my revival."

"It shall be so, Master."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Reappearing in the manor, Danica looked over at Marlena and asked, "Are you sure you're okay?"

"I'm just a little shaken up. I never would have believed a mere woodland troll could ignore my illusions so easily," Marlena answered.

"It must have been those blessed amulets. Just learn a few more offensive spells, and you'll be fine." Danica gestured for the other redhead to follow, and then continued as they walked, "We could make you some wands as a backup, until you're comfortable with your own spells."

"That's probably a good idea," Marlena agreed. "Are we going to the girls' wing?"

"The others are waiting for us there," Danica replied. "They're looking for those demons in their family books."

"At least my spell worked against the minor demons," Marlena said in a dismissive tone.

Danica pursed her lips, and then said, "We need to figure out some way for you to carry your artifact with you, without affecting its magic. With that boosting the power of your illusions, I doubt even the greater demons would have been able to penetrate them without being prepared ahead of time."

They reached the common area of the girls' wing then, to find the clones were painting each other's nails, and fixing each other's hair. Danica chuckled, but didn't otherwise react to how outrageous the styles looked. She also noted how much the clones were maturing, to have reached this stage of development. Only three months ago, they had the minds of five-year-olds. Now, they were rapidly moving toward a teenage mindset.

Remembering her teen years, that worried Danica a little.

Andrea piped up, "Come look. We've found all the demons."

"Good. Now we'll know what we're up against," Danica remarked, moving over to sit down with the gathered witches.

"First things first, their common abilities," Celes said as soon as Danica and Marlena sat down. "They can all teleport, with very few restrictions. Distance, and even dimensional barriers have little bearing on that power. Ashley blocked them with some charms she'd put out, or they'd have been on us a lot quicker than they were."

"They'll all be able to hurl fire, as well. That power is nearly universal with greater demons," Ashley added.

"They can also absorb the powers of demons – or witches – in some cases, by killing them," Edna warned.

"Then there's the obvious danger from all the claws, horns, hoofs, and wings," Celes continued. "They're all ridiculously strong, so we certainly don't want them to get close to us if we can help it. Your turn, Andrea. The first one is from your book."


Andrea turned her family book so Danica and Marlena could see it. "The fat, ugly one has mental powers. It can read minds, use telekinesis, and possess people. It can also let out smells that can affect a person's mind – or just smell really awful."

Edna interjected, "We're in good shape with the Korplenz demon. They're extremely vain, and rarely absorb other powers. Since it believes its powers are so superior, it will be at a disadvantage. Everyone here is used to telepaths, thanks to you and me, Danica. Any of you will be in a better position to recognize its mental intrusions because of that." Pointing at Danica and Celes, Edna continued, "You both have telekinetic powers, too, which can combat that power better than anything else."

"There's also a vanquishing potion in my book," Andrea added, grinning.

"Okay, now on to the hunchback. He was in my book." Celes replaced Andrea's tome with her own, pointing to the picture. "Banreez have power over sound. They can deaden it, or amplify it. A scream from a Banreez can burst your eardrums, or even be focused into a wave of force. They're also extremely agile, and their claws are coated in some sort of poison, which makes it hard for your body to respond to your thoughts. They're not supposed to be very smart, according to my book."

"The last was in my book," Edna explained, moving her volume into the center of the table. The picture she pointed at appeared to be some sort of twisted combination of man, ape, and troll – exactly as the demon had looked when they'd seen it in the desert. "It has power over light, and thus darkness. The darkness it creates is hard to pierce, even with magic. It can focus light into a burning beam as well. Like the Banreez, Prizart demons aren't very smart. Other than the Korplenz and Rexxus, the demons are fairly low ranking in the demonic pecking order."

Danica observed, "So, that means that either the elves aren't considered much of a threat..."

"Which I doubt," Edna interrupted.

"Or, they aren't there to actually attack," Danica finished, nodding her agreement with Edna's thoughts on the matter.

"There are vanquishing potions for those two, as well," Andrea said, tapping the ingredient list in Edna's book.

"They might not work, though," Ashley explained. "That's why I needed a drop of Rexxus' blood for my vanquishing potion. He's gained too much power to be vanquished by a common potion. Rexxus is a Hylaric demon, one of the more dangerous types. They're very intelligent, and can attack with fire, blasts of dark energy, or poisonous clouds of breath. Rexxus has also absorbed the powers of other demons. He can move as fast as a Warrazar – a speed demon – and his touch can age you – or kill. He may have other abilities, but those are the ones I know of. Nothing except this potion," Ashley said, holding up the red vial, "can possibly vanquish him."

"I don't know about that," Edna suggested with a grin. "A spell cast by the three of you could very well destroy him. The bond growing between you is no small thing, and demons will learn to fear it."

"We should get started on the potions, then. Now that we know what they can do, we can fight them," Celes advised.

"Not just yet," Edna argued. "I can't explain, but you should wait to strike against the demons for two more days."

"What's going to happen on the full moon?" Ashley asked.

"Not just the full moon," Edna countered. "You'll be better prepared if you wait. Just trust me on this. That doesn't mean that you can't gather up all the ingredients, so you'll be ready."

"Edna reads the signs that govern a witch's powers better than anyone. I think we should listen to her," Ashley suggested.

"And you know far more than either of us do, so I'll take the advice," Celes agreed.

"If they're allied with Rexxus, they're minions of Meckataur as well. That makes them doubly dangerous. For some reason, demons in his sphere of influence are far more powerful than others," Ashley advised.

"We've been warned about Meckataur and his spawn," Danica confirmed. "If we can do something to combat his rise in power, we need to do it. Zoraster's schemes are bad enough, without adding a powerful devil to the mix."

Celes sat back, tenting her fingers in her lap. "It's only little things I heard, but Meckataur may be mixed up with Zoraster as well."

"All the more reason," Danica said. "That reminds me – Christi gave me some reports to look over. Between the two of us, we might remember some things about Zoraster's plans that could relate to them. Will you come look over them with me?"

"Of course," Celes said, standing up.

"And we'll start teaching you some of the things your mother didn't get to show you, Andrea," Edna said, leaning over to pat the blonde's shoulder.

Denise, one of the clones of Danica, approached the women as Danica stood up to leave the room with Celes. She glanced back over her shoulder at the rest of the girls, and several waved her forward emphatically. Her face flushed with color, but she walked up to Danica and asked, "Are you going to make us toys?" She then cast her eyes downward and laughed sheepishly.

"Toys?" Danica asked, her eyebrows raising.

Celes looked over at the redheaded clone and said, "How in the... Never mind, I already know. Are you peeking into our heads again, Denise?"

Sticking out her lower lip, Denise replied, "No. Well – maybe a little. I didn't do it on purpose."

Celes rolled her eyes and chuckled. "I'll explain later, Danica. Just tell them you're going to."

"Okay," Danica said, with obvious confusion in her voice. "I guess I'll be making you toys, then."

Denise nodded, and walked back to her siblings, who erupted in a chorus of giggling.

"You'd better explain this to me first, before we get started on the reports," Danica said to Celes. Glancing over at Andrea, who was blushing furiously, she added, "I'll wager Andrea knows what's going on too, but I'll drag it out of you."

"Come along then," Celes laughed, and turned to leave the room.

Danica followed, shaking her head, and wondering what she was getting into now.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The cadaverous necromancer watched as the woman screamed. A nude, perfect duplicate of the terrified woman hovered over her, leaning closer, and shuddering in apparent ecstasy. The whore's screams trailed off, even as her flesh shrank against her bones. When the process was complete, nothing more than a dried husk remained of the dead prostitute.

Another necromancer, in charge of the transformation, ordered the newly animated Arian, "Go to your place and perform your duties, until you are given other instructions."

Slapping her rounded bottom, the beautiful creature laughed, and then sauntered toward the stairs leading upward into the house of ill-repute.

Turning to his superior, the necromancer in charge of the magic said, "She is the last. We will leave for the next location immediately."

"None have been detected?" The cadaverous leader of the death mages asked.

"No, Master."

"Good. Transport all the corpses as soon as this one rises. Send your subordinates to prepare at the next location." Without further comment, the master of the necromancers teleported away.

Back in his underground lair beneath the complex of Zoraster Arias, Klarr bowed his head respectfully, and activated the magical mirror before him with a thought.

"Report," Ebonar's voice sounded from the mirror.

"We have accomplished our goal, without detection."

"Excellent. A full score of Arians within Freeland itself. Your minions will move to the next location immediately?"

"Yes, Master. The remains will arrive here as soon as the final female has risen as the undead."

"Report to me again when the next house of whores has been converted," Ebonar instructed.

"It shall be so, Master."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Excellent," Zoraster remarked as he sat sipping wine, just out of range of the mirror's vision. "Confine this intrusion to the outer edges of Freeland, for now. We will attempt to penetrate the capital and Egoria, later. Continue with the effort to infiltrate Egoria's tightly knit society of cutpurses and murderers."

"As you wish, Master," Ebonar responded, bowing his head.

A chime sounded, and Zoraster inclined his head, sensing through the magic who awaited outside the heart of his empire, begging admittance. "Ah, my rune scholars. You have the instructions committed to memory, I trust?"

"Of course, Master."

"I will be in my manor, in Varn. Bring the fruits of their labors there when completed."

"I will do so immediately, Master."

Speaking the words of a spell, Zoraster vanished from his chair, to reappear within the aforementioned manor. One of his nearly mindless clone servants awaited outside the door of the portal room, as they always did. "I shall be staying for some time. Make this place habitable again."

"Yes, Master," the beautiful brunette replied in a somewhat wooden voice.

Smiling wickedly, his manhood rising beneath his robes, Zoraster added, "As soon as you have informed the others of my return, attend me in my bedchambers."

There was none of the dry, wooden tone in her voice when she replied, "Mmm, yes, my Master," and pinched her nipples through her blouse.

"The small pleasures in life," Zoraster muttered, watching the clone quickly walk away. When she vanished around a corner, he went immediately to his bedchambers to await her return.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica finished writing down the final connection between the reports, all of which she and Celes believed were linked to Zoraster. "If we're right, he has his hands in everything from the lowest pickpocket, right up to royalty, all over the continent."

"The Duke and Duchess saw part of it, but seeing all this together, I can see where they missed some of the connections," Celes agreed. "Things are getting worse. Are Freeland and Egoria preparing for this?"

"Egoria is, as best they're able, without causing a ruckus amongst their neighbors. Freeland is taking small steps, but they refuse to commit," Danica replied.

"Damned idiots," Celes cursed. "This is plain as day, even when you don't know what we do. What could they possibly be waiting for?"

"Christi says that Freeland believes this can all be solved with diplomacy. They just don't understand Zoraster like we do. We'll just have to hope that Thakkorias can convince them to prepare for war. I should take this back to the Duchess as soon as possible, but I need to at least draw up some plans for Marlena's wands – and the toys for the girls."

"They're maturing quickly, aren't they?" Celes remarked.

"Yes, and I think you're right. Having some toys to take care of their needs will do them some good. They still turn to each other without thought right now. If I make the toys well enough, that should distract them a bit."

Celes broke out into laughter. "If they're anything like the ones you've already made, they'll do more than distract them. They are calming down a lot, though."

Danica nodded, and took a sip of her tea. "They're maturing, and becoming individuals. As they develop their own personalities, it will overshadow Zoraster's brainwashing. Fighting is actually a good sign, as crazy as that sounds. It means they're thinking of each other as people, and not just sex playmates."

"Odd that your clones are developing your mental powers, isn't it? Yours didn't come out until you ran into that Psi in Zoraster's counting house."

Danica shrugged, but then she crinkled her nose and said, "The only thing I can think of is that it's my touching their minds that has awakened their powers. That's when I found out about mine. I think I should have the girls help make their toys. If nothing else, they can help knead the air bubbles out of the clay."

"Not a bad idea. Helps you out, and gives them a little lesson about doing their share to get what they want."

Danica sighed, and sat back heavily in her chair. "I guess I should get started drawing up those plans for Marlena's wands."

"I'd really like to go sit in on witchcraft school with Andrea. I have just as much to learn as she does. I'll stay and help you, if you want me to."

Danica waved her hand in a short, dismissive gesture. "No, go on. I'm just going to get started, and then go put together something for lunch. I'll come get you when it's time to start cooking."

"There's something else we could try putting the girls to work at. If yours have half your talent, we'll be in good shape."

"You're just trying to get out of the domestic chores," Danica chided.

"Of course I am," Celes laughed as she walked out the door.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica awakened early, wet and breathing hard. She shivered one last time as the dream faded. Swinging her legs off the edge of the bed, she pulled her sticky panties away from her body as she stood up. She peeled them off a moment later, along with her nightgown, and slipped into a bath. All the while, she couldn't get the dream about Christi out of her mind.

Dried and dressed a short while later, Danica leafed through her notes. Despite taking the helm with both lunch and dinner, she'd found the time and inspiration to finish sketching out designs for Marlena's wands, and the basic outline of the toys for the girls.

Coming across some of her quick sketches for the toys brought Danica's dream back to mind. Pressing her fingers over her mound for a moment, she thought, Okay, enough already. I get the point.

Shaking her head, Danica muttered, "Okay, my hormones are really out of control. I'm talking to my pussy."

She knew it was partially the Awakening, enhancing her own natural desires. The point was that it only enhanced them, and didn't cause them. She, Marlena, Andrea, and Celes had been nearly celibate – even when alone – most of the time since they'd set foot in this valley. Odds were, they were all getting a little pent up.

Naughty thoughts about her friends swirled through Danica's mind then, with Ashley moving into the mix. The Duke and Duchess worked their way into the erotic daydream as well.

Shaking her head again, Danica realized that she wasn't going to get past the beast her need was becoming, unless she fed it. Speaking of feeding, I'd better get to the kitchen, if I'm going to be drifting off into daydreams all morning.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 05



Andrea and Celes both walked out of the raven-haired witch's room, Andrea having given her bed to Ashley for the night. "Morning," Andrea greeted her in a cheery yawn.

"Morning," Danica replied. Her passions rose again upon seeing the two women, and she let them have their way. "Keep tonight free – both of you," she said with a mischievous grin.

Celes purred, and Andrea let out a little squeal of delight. "That's going to make it hard to concentrate today," Celes remarked.

"I'll make it a little easier, for a while. I'm going to take those notes back to Christi after breakfast. We still have all that coin lying around, so I'll bring back something for lunch and dinner." Danica paused, her grin spreading even wider. "We can save our energy that way."

Celes laughed, "I'll not argue any of that." Nodding toward the blonde at her side, she added, "Andrea and I can go get our knuckles whacked in witch school while you're out."

"You're impossible," Andrea laughed, moving toward the kitchen. Danica and Celes followed, to be joined by Ashley, Edna, and Marlena, shortly thereafter.

Once everyone was fed, Danica returned to her room to pick up the notes for Christi, and vanished on the wings of magic.

After a quick stop to arrange for lunch and dinner to be prepared, Danica stepped out of the portal room in Blackhawk Hall. She saw the Duchess banging on a door as soon as she entered the hall. "Get up. Staying out late is no excuse to be lazy, Matthias. You're going on that patrol today, whether you like it or not."

Danica could just hear the young man's grumbled reply, as she walked up to Christi. The Duchess turned to smile, and gestured toward Matthias' door. "You should have seen his face when he got home. Not an ounce of wit left in his head. Betsy must have turned him inside out."

Danica laughed and held up her notes. "Every bit of this is tied to Zoraster, in one way or another. Everything we know is in here."

"We assumed as much, but what you know will show us how it's all connected." The Duchess paused, and launched a kick at the door in front of her. "Get up, or I'll send Kronk in to drag you out of bed."

"I'm up. I'm up. I'm getting dressed," Danica heard from the other side of the door.

Christi beckoned, and turned away from the door. Danica followed, and a few steps down the hall, the Duchess leaned into an open doorway. "Karen, can you watch Dax and Jennica when they're done with school today? I have some things to do."

"Of course, Christi. You've been corralling them and your duties for a week now. You need a break," the Duchess' personal maid replied. "I'll take them to my sister's. They're fond of my nieces and nephews."

"Thanks, Karen." Nodding back to Matthias' door, she said, "If that boy doesn't come out of there in five minutes, send Kronk in to yank him out by the seat of his pants."

Turning back to Danica, Christi said, "Well, I guess we'd better get started, so you can tell me how much worse all this is than it looks."

Danica nodded somberly, and followed the Duchess to the cluttered room that passed for an office.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Clexis returned to his room in the Pharaoh's palace, clenching his teeth to bite off the curse trying to burst forth from him. He knew he was being watched. Both simple observation and his magic confirmed that.

He sifted through every action he had taken for the last several weeks, finding no fault with anything. Until a few days ago, everything was moving in perfect accordance with Zoraster's plan. Now, his every move was discreetly scrutinized, and the same held true for anyone he spoke with. If not for the magical means of contacting the agents he'd recruited in this land, he would have no contact with them at all. Even then, he had risked only a quick warning to each – ordering them not to contact him until they were contacted.

Clexis' stomach went sour. He knew he had to contact Ebonar and inform the man of what was occurring. He had no real choice. Were Ebonar to discover the state of affairs here without being directly informed, Clexis knew he risked dire punishment.

Summoning up his will, Clexis crossed the room to uncover a small mirror. If any magic was safe to use, it would be this. The mirror's enchantment came from Zoraster himself, and the Archmage's scrying devices were nearly undetectable. Swallowing hard and taking a deep breath, Clexis activated the magic item.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"He controls the Royal House of Ferrartene, and most of the criminal element in the entire nation. He's allied with Draxnog, and has a strong grip there as well. He's surrounding us – Freeland, and Egoria," Christi summed up.

"That's what connects to the reports, anyway," Danica said. "Zoraster had his fingers in everything. You'll have to be suspect of everyone."

"Wonderful," Christi sarcastically sighed. "Well, it's what we suspected anyway, but it's still depressing to see more evidence every day."

Putting down the paper she held, Danica asked, "Do you think Freeland will move?"

"Eventually. Thakkor has already managed to prick Leoric's annoying skin of diplomacy, a bit. Freeland's King is sending men South secretly, and they're training here and there with some of our forces. Cerebus and I have sewed up every sellsword on the continent by calling in a few favors. There isn't a mercenary that hasn't spent some time in Fightershaven, and none of them want to see it fall. That gives us eyes and ears everywhere."

"At least you'll be forewarned, whenever all this boils over." Danica shrugged, unable to offer more comfort than that.

"Leoric is no fool. We have the strength to stop this war cold, when push comes to shove. That's why it doesn't make any sense." Christi threw up one hand in a sign of exasperation.

Danica let out a sharp sigh. "It has to be a means to an end. The war, demons, and the other odd things Zoraster had Celes and me doing are all connected somehow."

"We'd probably have to be as crazy as Zoraster was to understand it, though," Christi chuckled derisively. "For now, we'll deal with the war. You, Darkni, your sister, and everyone else can handle the demons and magic. Somewhere between it all, we'll come through. We've been in tough spots before."

Danica nodded, hoping the Duchess was correct. "Well, should I let you get to whatever it was you needed to do today?"

"This was it," Christi responded, and laughed. "I really just needed some time to myself. I love the kids, but I need a break now and then."

"I can understand that," Danica agreed, and laughed with the Duchess.

Christi took a deep breath as her laughter stilled. With a crooked grin on her face, the Duchess twitched her eyebrows and said, "Well now – we have the work all done. Maybe we should be rewarded with some play time." She reached over to draw circles on Danica's knee, continuing to smile at her.

An inferno of arousal surged in Danica, brought on by the suggestion and the touch. "I thought the idea was to share me with your husband," Danica chided playfully.

"We'll get around to that," Christi purred, and leaned in closer to Danica. They both reached for each other at the same time, falling into a hungry kiss.

They broke from the kiss, and Christi let out a sensual growl, pressing her fingers tight against her sex. "Bedroom. This place is enough of a mess, without us getting everything sticky, too."

Danica shivered and stood up. Christi did the same, and quickly led Danica to the Ducal bedchambers. The door was barely closed before they embraced in yet another kiss, their hands both working on each other's clothing. Christi's blouse and Danica's robe were both falling to the floor when the door opened. Christi turned to look, seeing her husband watching and grinning.

Letting out a high-pitched, sharp growl, Christi said, "Close the door and get in here."

Even as Cerebus kicked the door shut, Christi shrugged off her skirt. She and Danica embraced again, pressing their bodies tightly together as they locked lips in yet another heated kiss. When their lips parted, Christi traced the cups of Danica's brassiere. "I like this," she observed huskily.

"Andrea has figured out how to make them. I could have her make some for you," Danica offered, as she shrugged off the garment, freeing her heavy breasts. "She'll have to get your measurements, though."

Christi licked her lips and chuckled. "That sounds like fun." The last word barely left her lips before she leaned down to wrap them around Danica's left nipple. Danica moaned and reached down to caress the Duchess' sex through her panties. She could feel a damp spot, which only served to heat her passions even more. 

Christi released Danica's nipple, turning to the Duke, who sat on the bed watching them. "Clothes off – now." She didn't wait for a response, but instead grabbed her panties, shrugging them off her hips and letting them fall. Even as the cloth reached her knees, she engulfed Danica's other nipple in her mouth.

Following the Duchess' example, Danica dropped her panties. They bumped hands, reaching for each other's folds, but quickly navigated around each other to dip their fingers in the wet heat they sought.

They moaned in concert, and Danica let her eyes flutter closed for a moment. When she opened them, she saw the Duke dropping his shirt to the floor. Though his skin was an odd almost greenish tan, the sight of his rock hard muscles distracted Danica sufficiently to ignore it. His chest was also smooth – completely bare of hair. When he dropped his pants a moment later, Danica let out a little yelp of excitement, seeing the length and thickness of his erect, also-hairless manhood.

Letting Danica's nipple pop from her mouth, Christi looked over at her husband and purred. While they continued to stroke each other's folds, Christi asked, "Do you like it rough?"

"Mmm hmm," Danica moaned sharply, as three fingers penetrated her depths to their full length. Danica pushed two of her stroking fingers into Christi's moist canal as well.

Christi let out a growl that sounded distinctly like a bark, and brought her fingers – sticky with Danica's juices – to her lips to suck them. Once again, Danica followed her lead, and tasted the Duchess' bittersweet juices from her own fingers.

Grabbing Danica's arm, Christi led the redhead toward the bed. The firm, well-defined muscles of Christi's ass caught Danica's eye as they walked, and she spanked one taut cheek on impulse. That brought a chuckling moan from the Duchess, who walked all the quicker. Cerebus moved out of the way, to sit on the corner of the bed.

Danica swung on Christi's arm toward the Duke when they reached the bed. She released the Duchess' hand, and immediately dropped to her head to Cerebus' lap, grasping his cock and pointing it up at the same time.

Mindblind growled as Danica engulfed him in her warm mouth, fisting her auburn tresses in his hand as she bobbed over his thick organ.

"Feel good?" Christi asked, while watching the show and caressing her folds.

"Damn – yeah," her husband responded.

Danica squatted in front of the Duke, sucking him hard and fast. A lurch of his hips sent the tip of his erection into Danica's throat, forcing her to release him for a moment. As soon as her lips cleared his glans, Christi lay her husband back and took over where Danica had left off.

Gripping his wife's hair hard, Cerebus forced her mouth up and down over his shaft. She coughed occasionally around him, but kept the pressure on. With an explosive gasp, Mindblind yanked Christi's head upward and said, "If you keep that up much longer you're going to get a mouthful."

"I've got a much better way to taste you," Christi sultrily said. Looking over at Danica, she continued, "Both of you." Christi patted the bed as the Duke released her hair. "Hands and knees," she instructed, tugging Danica back up to a standing position.

Danica crawled over the bed in a slow, sensual display. She continued toward the headboard when Christi pushed on her bottom to urge it. As soon as Danica was where the Duchess wanted her, Christi grabbed a thick pillow and slid it between the redhead's knees on the bed.

Danica parted her knees a little wider, and Christi moved between them, the pillow putting her lips in a perfect position to suck Danica's folds between them. The Duke moved onto the bed at the same time, to swing his leg over his wife's body and get in position.

Danica moaned contentedly as Christi suckled her lips, while she looked back to watch Mindblind press his thick cock against her folds. He sank into her with a moist squishy sound, and breathed a growled sigh of pleasure.

Her pendulous breasts swung forward and back as the Duke took her with powerful, steady strokes. Christi's tongue continued to dance over Danica's folds, paying a lot of attention to the swollen bud at their apex.

After a sharp smack on her buttocks, Cerebus increased the speed of his thrusts. Danica let out a yelp, and then a moan, as his big cock stroked her faster. He gripped her hips hard, pulling them back toward him with every thrust into her depths. Their flesh clashed with loud smacks as his dangling orbs bounced off his lapping wife's chin.

The power and frequency of Cerebus' thrusts constantly increased, until Danica had to claw the coverings to keep her hands from sliding forward. All the while, the Duchess' tongue danced over her. Her breasts swung violently and erratically, until Christi reached up to grasp them, pinching the nipples, and holding them in place. Danica's arousal burned white-hot as the pressure of impending climax built within her.

The noble couple didn't relent in the slightest, even when Danica erupted into orgasm. Danica screamed, yelped, and gasped for breath as the Duke's cock continued to assault her. Christi released Danica's breasts and wrapped her arms around the redhead's arching back. The Duchess sucked Danica's clit hard, and Danica just kept coming.

Cerebus' grunts became deeper and more urgent as Danica went partially numb from the continued pounding of his cock into her depths. She knew it was only a momentary respite, as she could dully feel the coiled heat in her loins tightening again.

Christi released Danica's clit, and gasped out, "Fill her up."

The Duke responded by increasing the speed of his thrusts even more. Within two strokes, Danica came again. Her scream of release was loud and deep, but was cut short when she had to suck in a breath. Behind her, Mindblind emitted a growl that increased slightly in volume and pitch by the second.

Cerebus' growl suddenly jumped in volume by magnitudes, and he slammed his hips forward one last time to empty his seed into her depths. Danica let out a squeal as she felt his hot cream spurting into her, coating her cervix and her walls.

"Uh huh," Christi chuckled, while continuing to flick Danica's clit with her tongue. The Duke growled through his climax, as Danica fought for breath through hers. She relented after a minute or so, asking, "Does his cum feel good, way up inside you."

"Mmm hmm," Danica moaned, and then returned to panting.

"That pussy feel good?" She then asked her husband.

"Oh yeah," he gasped back, and then growled, as Danica's muscles clamped her walls extra tight around him.

"I want to lick it all out," Christi moaned.

With a sharp grunt, Cerebus jerked his manhood from Danica's depths. Danica let out a whimper and trembled for moment, feeling the void inside her caused by his withdrawal.

Danica looked back, seeing the Duke's manhood was covered in her juices and sticky trails of his semen along its entire length. She contracted her muscles to help push his cream from inside her, and said, "I want a taste."

Mindblind chuckled evilly, and moved over in front of her. Danica sucked his slowly softening cock between her lips, cleaning their mingled juices from it. Christi parted Danica's labia, wiggling her tongue in the redhead's canal, awaiting the creamy prize that was slowly creeping toward her from Danica's depths.

The first dollop peeked from between Danica's labia, and Christi immediately pulled down on the redhead's hips. The Duchess sucked Danica's labia in and wiggled her head back and forth, drinking up the slowly flowing stream of cream.

Danica's head fell forward, to hang limply as Christi drove her steadily toward another explosive release.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

C'seka materialized within the pocket dimension of the wizardess' Hellgate, and knew immediately that the woman was inexperienced with the magic. He could feel her arousal, brought on by the demonic creatures within her gate.

Reaching into her mind, he acquired an image of her greatest desire, and transformed into the man. Stepping out of the alcove where he'd appeared in her personal realm, he moved toward her. The other demons flinched, and C'seka could feel their fear.

With powerful strides, he crossed toward the wizardess, the remainder of the demons falling back in fear, having never known a creature that was more than their equal. The woman gasped upon seeing him, and C'seka smiled in response. Between his legs, his recently formed manhood throbbed. He hungered for this woman's flesh, in more than one way.

Her eyes roved over his perfect body, as the rate of her breathing increased. Coming to stand directly before the wizardess, C'seka reached up to cradle the firm flesh of the woman's breast in his right hand. She reached down, gripping his manhood in her hand, and she was his.

C'seka grasped the neckline of her robe and flexed his muscles, easily ripping the material from her body. Now he felt fear mixed with her arousal, and C'seka found the vintage to be exquisite. Grasping her dark hair, he spun the woman around and thrust her head downward, bending her over the table.

Thrusting his erection into her wet heat, C'seka felt an ecstasy unlike anything he'd ever known. The woman screamed sharply as he violated her, yet her arousal spiked even as she did so.

C'seka's fingers dug into her hips as he violently took her, the tip of his manhood banging against her cervix and drawing a sharp yelp from her with each stab. Their flesh clashed loudly as the demon pulled her hips back toward him, even as his slammed forward. He could feel the building pressure of her release, and a sense of blissful anticipation.

The woman climaxed. In that moment, her mind opened to C'seka. He knew all that she knew, felt all that she felt, and absorbed it all. Slamming his hips forward one last time, the demon erupted into her depths. She screamed; the sound a combination of release and pain from the near-searing heat of his semen bursting into her depths.

The urge to take her flesh in full washed over C'seka, and he bent over her while opening his maw wide. At the last instant he paused, feeling a strange new connection to the woman, and the demons in her realm. Power flooded through C'seka with the knowledge and he closed his mouth, to shudder and hiss through his teeth.

Seeing an image of a lover in the woman's mind, C'seka reached through his newfound power into her. Pulling free of her depths, he stood and commanded her to seek this lover with her gate. She obeyed immediately, and C'seka smiled upon seeing the male on the other side of the gate.

Seeing his lover nude prompted the man to enter the gate without hesitation. He had just enough time to notice the semen dribbling down her thighs, and then C'seka was upon him.

The demon devoured the wizardess' lover right before her eyes, as the man possessed no magic and was otherwise useless to C'seka. Licking the man's blood from his lips – all of his hungers sated – C'seka shimmered, and reappeared in his hidden alcove within Nightmare Castle. Closing his eyes, he could feel the woman still. When she stepped from her gate on unsteady legs and closed it, he could feel her still – command her still.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 05



C'seka hissed in surprised pleasure, and sat to explore the new knowledge he'd gained from his pawn.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Christi's thighs, and the grip of her hands on Danica's head relaxed at last. Danica popped up for air, and licked the Duchess' juices from her lips with a purr. Beside them the Duke lay limp, spent from filling his wife with the creamy treat Danica had just hungrily lapped up.

Sliding up next to the Duchess, Danica kissed her, and then settled in between the couple. She only floated in the blissful warmth for a few minutes before she realized how late it was.

"Oh no," Danica groaned, sitting up. "I completely forgot that I promised to bring back lunch and dinner. I barely have enough time to go pick it up and get back."

"Well, we can always cuddle some other time," Christi suggested. "Of course, we'll always be one behind, because we're just going to end up doing other things first."

"I can live with that," Danica laughed as she slid out of the bed.

Christi watched Danica bend to retrieve her robe, purring at the sight of Danica's bare bottom presented so attractively. "Feel free to bring along Celes, Andrea, and Marlena too."

Pulling on her robe, Danica suggestively hinted, "Well, Andrea does need to get your sizes if she's going to make you some brassieres."

"We'll figure out some excuse for the other two," the Duchess said, and winked.

Danica finished dressing, and after a few passionate kisses, walked the pathways of magic once more.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ebonar glanced at the mirror watching Blackhawk Hall's master bedroom, finding Danica gone. Turning back to the now darkened mirror which had occupied his attention for the last several minutes, he scowled and a low growl hissed from between his lips. Were it not for the Master's awakening, this day would be a disaster, he thought. The information Danica had provided to the Duchess of Cratel would enable Egoria to be better prepared, and Clexis' report revealed a major setback in that region of the world.

Every mirror in the room suddenly flashed, and the face of Zoraster Arias appeared within them. "It is of no matter," Zoraster said in a dismissive tone. "Our other agents across the sea flourish. We will sow the seeds of war through them, and Osiron will be drawn into the battle. The Egorians would have discovered the information Danica provided to them soon enough. Nothing is outside of my preparations."

"Of course, Master," Ebonar agreed.

"Make contact with the beggars and other assorted sundry in the region. I suspect that Danica is involved in the sudden shift of Pharaoh's gullibility. We may very well need to take steps to counter her, if she should choose to leave her hidden lair and interfere."

With those words, Zoraster's image vanished from the mirror. Ebonar moved immediately to fulfill his Master's orders.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Holding the ebon obelisk known as Gosdbane before him, Zoraster felt the power of the god Blorcasir within it. The Lord of Murder's power grew daily, as new worshipers pledged themselves to his unholy name.

That power now served Zoraster Arias.

"Soon the signs will be in place, and I will have the power to wrest you from the clutches of the vain and manipulating gods. Only then will I bring them all low, and wrench the reins of power from their hands. Then, I will undo what they have wrought, and bring justice back to this world. No more will their ridiculous balance afflict us all for their amusement."

Slipping Godsbane back into a pocket of his robes, the Archmage gestured toward the mirrors, bringing them to light, one by one. He observed each for a few moments, and then let them go dark. At last, an image caught his attention, and Zoraster cocked his head in amused surprise. "Well what have we here, my dear Baron."

In the mirror, an attractive young woman sat on the Baron's lap, bouncing energetically over his erection. She cried out in release, even as the middle-aged Baron shuddered. He slumped in the chair, twitching as the brunette wiggled her hips and moaned.


Chuckling, Zoraster waggled his finger at the image. "My dear Baron, I do believe your wife is quite alive and in good health. Such shameful behavior." He then laughed, and added, "I wondered how long it would take you to succumb."

Gesturing again, Zoraster caused the mirror to go dark. "She was easy enough to manipulate. Her desire for money and power sat her in your lap, and it put her in mine as well. Fool that you are, you will do anything she asks to prevent her revealing your indiscretion."

Standing, Zoraster stared at the now darkened mirror. "And with your fall, I consolidate power in the Western Baronies. With Varn, Witharten, and Canterdon fully in my control, the rest will be forced into my cause through the various treaties."

With another laugh, Zoraster spun on his heels, to ascend from his hidden lair to the manor proper above.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"How can you concentrate to do that intricate carving?" Celes asked, and sat back heavily in her chair. "I can't think about anything except sleep after eating so much two meals in a row."

Looking up from the wand shaft she was carefully putting scrollwork on, Danica smiled and said, "I didn't overdo it." She laughed then and said, "I did want to though."

Celes blew a raspberry and sat back up straight. "Looks like you're coming along quickly there."

"I get a little quicker every time. I'll probably be able to finish the carving on both of them by tomorrow afternoon. I'll have the girls get to work on the clay tomorrow too. That way, I can get started on their toys as soon as I'm done with the wands. We still have to figure out how to get Edna and Ashley their own rooms too."

Picking up the papers and leafing through Danica's notes for Marlena's wands, Celes asked, "Any ideas about that?"

"Have you noticed that neither of them really feel completely comfortable in such a big place?"

"Suppose I have." Celes put the notes back down on the table, "Those are going to be some fire sticks."

"Wait until you see what I have planned for Andrea's jewelry," Danica responded with a sly smile. "I think they'd both be more comfortable with a little cottage of their own behind the manor. It will be a lot easier to modify this place with a couple of doors than to add rooms to it. Between you, Marlena, and me, we should be able to enchant them to have some of the amenities we have here, while still feeling homey for them."

"That sounds like a good idea. I think they'll like it. Defensive magic in the baubles for Andrea?"

Danica nodded, her expression becoming a little somber. "I'd feel better if she had the protective magics we all have."

"Because you don't think we're going to be staying hidden here much longer."

"Not with everything going on in the world. Between Zoraster and the demons, we'd be selfish to hide away and do nothing."

"I think we'd do well to make some bits of Art for Edna and Ashley too. Maybe they can craft some charms that will do us all some good too – especially against demons."

Ashley's voice arose from the door of the study, "We've already started that, actually. When I can manage to get Edna away from whatever project she has planned for us tomorrow night, that is."

Danica waved the red-headed witch over. "Did you hear my idea about getting the two of you your own places here?"

Ashley shook her head. "No, I only just walked up a moment ago."

"Danica thinks the two of you would be more comfortable in little cottages of your own, out behind the manor," Celes explained.

Danica added, "With some of the comforts we have here, of course. Your own baths, and chamber pots like all the ones we have in here."

Ashley's face brightened with a smile. "That sounds fine. I feel so out of place in such a big building, but I do enjoy the comforts you have here."

"Best of both worlds," Celes laughed. "So you're making us some charms, and we can give you some things that will help protect you, until we can make something personal and special. Those demons aren't going to know what hit them."

"I pray you're right," Ashley said. "We certainly stand a far better chance together than I did alone. This has to be part of Meckataur's schemes, and he has to be stopped. Your Zoraster's war will only feed the chaos that Meckataur thrives on."

"I've been thinking about that. I'm not so sure that is an accident," Danica said ominously.

"That does sound like the madman," Celes agreed. "You think they're working together?"

"I don't know, but I don't think it will hurt to work from both sides. Both of them need to be stopped."

"How do you manage to keep working on that wand?" Ashley asked, noticing that Danica had not paused in her careful carving.

Danica wiggled the wand in front of her for a moment with a chuckle. "This is just scrollwork. I'd have to concentrate harder if I were actually carving runes. This won't need that sort of work. I just want it to be pretty."

Celes offered, "Why don't I sit down with Edna and Ashley to get an idea of what they want their cottages to be like?"

"Good idea. I'll knuckle down on these so I can be ready to enchant them tomorrow," Danica agreed.

Celes stood and clapped. "To work then."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Gaeaye dangled her legs in her stream, considering the words of the elven woman seated beside her. The elf maiden's legs drew ripples in the bubbling brook as well, as she waited patiently for Gaeaye's response.

As the Earth Mother contemplated the peace offering from the Mother of the Fey, she also communicated with her fellow gods. This was not her decision alone, especially on two critical points. Though Gaeaye's domain most closely aligned with the Fey, the decision at hand could have far reaching effects.

For her part, Gaeaye's decision was already made. She had made up her mind some time ago, and this meeting with the Mother of the Fey only confirmed her convictions.

A few reluctant messages from her fellow gods brought a smile to the Earth Mother's lips. Despite misgivings, the rift between the gods and the Fey would be healed.

Cele'drial smiled as well, sensing the shift in nature around her, confirming her hopes. "So, it is done?"

Gaeaye opened her eyes. "It is done. All is agreed. No more will there be strife between us."

"Will you offer your blessing over what is to come with the fullness of the moon, Sister? My children miss your blessed presence, even as yours miss mine."

Taking Cele'drial's hand, Gaeaye replied, "I will. I can feel the rightness of this."

"In this joining, hope burns brighter."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

I hope you're enjoying Book II in Danica's trilogy. Please take a moment to vote/comment — it's what keeps us writing! Individual chapter votes can tell me a lot, so do vote on every chapter if you wish.

Apologies for the delay. I'm struggling with my muse again. Those of you who were with me at the end of Danica know how it is. The story will come out, because I'm dedicated to that.

Big thanks to Roust Writer for his editing. I don't know how I got along without his keen eye, quick wit, and insight.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 06



Author's Notes:

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission. © Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica put down the wand, satisfied with the design. With the bodies of both wands done, finishing the construction tomorrow would be easy. Finishing the enchantment might be another thing entirely.

Edna appeared in the doorway and tapped the doorjamb. "The girls are abed. Come along now, Celes and Andrea can use some support. It's time for them to unbind my powers, so I can be of more use around here."

"Did you come up with some ideas for your cottage?" Danica asked as she stood.

"I'd say we have it worked out." Edna beckoned, and Danica followed.

The three witches stood around a design drawn on the floor in chalk, studying copies of the spell they were about to cast. Marlena stood off to one side, looking more than a little sleepy.

Edna asked, "Are the three of you ready?"

Ashley looked at each of her sister witches in turn, receiving nods indicating that they had the spell memorized well enough to cast it. "We're ready. Are you?"

"Binding my powers was the hardest thing I ever did," Edna revealed as she moved toward the design on the floor. "I should have bound all my powers, but I couldn't do it. I'm ready."

Edna stepped into the sigil drawn on the floor, and nodded to the three witches surrounding her. The bond between Celes, Andrea, and Ashley revealed itself when they started the spell with no further prompting or signal.





Sisters of the Mists Ch. 06



"This sounds promising," Ebonar responded with dark mirth in his voice.

"Indeed. We will remind Camilla of her place, forge a weapon that will be a thorn in Danica's side, and gain yet another tool in the complicated dance with Meckataur." Zoraster swept his robe in a grand gesture as he turned. "Come, my protegee, allow me to explain the sweet irony of this exquisite punishment."

Ebonar followed his Master from the room, leaving the unconscious Camilla unaware that her fate walked with them.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica sat the second wand down, satisfied with her work. The strain of casting the preparatory enchantments in her tired state convinced her not to attempt the final enchantment today. Looking at the intricately carved wands with their rose colored crystal tips, Danica knew Marlena would love them.

Celes flipped through the designs for the girls' toys, which Danica had also finished during breaks while working on the wands. She paused with surprise when she saw one of them. "Good heavens, Danica. Is this a toy, or a weapon?" She turned the drawing toward Danica.

Danica smiled and let out a tired chuckle. "That one is for Damika. Zoraster made her as a toy for that man with the monstrous cock."

"The one that nearly killed you?" Celes asked, remembering that event from early in Zoraster's indoctrination of Danica.

Danica nodded and continued, "She'd barely notice anything smaller. Of all of them, she has the least chance of living a normal life. The way Zoraster modified her body, it will be nearly impossible for her."

"Maybe we can find some way to fix it," Celes suggested.

"I hope so," Danica concurred.

"Are you going to try to enchant those wands tonight?"

Danica shook her head in the negative. "I'm too tired, and it's getting late. I'd never finish them before whatever Edna has planned for us tonight."

"I don't think it's Edna's idea, actually, but you're right."

"And you're right too," Edna said to Celes. She walked in the room and continued, "It's almost time. The girls are getting dressed."

"Do we need to do anything special?" Danica asked.

"No, all you need to do is be there. There will be magic tonight, but none of us will be working it." Turning back toward the door, Edna added, "We'll all meet in front of the manor. I'll know where to go from there. Odds are, so will you."

As Edna vanished from the doorway, Danica turned to Celes and asked, "Do you feel a pull to be outside?"

Celes nodded. "Andrea and I talked about it. We assumed it had something to do with our powers, but if you're feeling it too..."

"I wonder if we'll have time to ask Marlena," Danica said as she stood up. "That would be the real test. You don't get any more urban than Marlena. We may as well get going."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Kazz'akel winced as the Demon Lord's voice thundered in his mind, Where are the Fey?

They do not enter reverie as usual, mighty Meckataur. While their minds are conscious, taking the three without alerting the others will be nearly impossible.

Failure will not be tolerated. I will have the untouched female Fey I require, or your torment will exceed that of any mortal. You will bring them before the time of power, by whatever means necessary.

It will be done, Master. As Meckataur's voice faded from his mind, Kazz'akel turned to the others and announced, "If they do not rest, we take them."

The other two demons drooled in anticipation, their bloodlust overwhelming the sense of self-preservation. Kazz'akel, more intelligent than the other two put together, knew that even Fey lacking magic could do them great harm.

He was not immune to the hunger of his fellow demons, however, and could almost taste the blood of the elves on his forked tongue as well.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Edna walked out herding the girls, who talked excitedly. One by one, the clones ceased talking as they stepped out into the moonlit night. Standing in the grass awaiting them, Celes and Danica shared a surprised glance upon witnessing the scene. When they turned to Andrea and Ashley, they noticed their thoughts were not unique.

The girls moved into a circular group, looking around with serene, awe-filled expressions. Edna walked past the clones toward the rest of the women, smiling beatifically.

"Okay, what is that all about?" Celes asked.

Edna chuckled. "I told you they have a place in this night. I know you've all felt a calling, and they do too. Now that they stand beneath the moon, even their short attention spans can't ignore that calling." Edna turned her face toward the moon and closed her eyes for a moment. When she opened them, she declared, "It's time. Come."

Edna walked to the west, and the entire group of women followed. Danica glanced back and noticed that the girls were following without prompting, walking silently in a tight group. Shaking her head in amazement as she looked forward once more, Danica noticed that they were walking toward a small stand of trees. Having visited nearly every corner of the valley, Danica knew that the center of the woodlet had a spring-fed pool housed in a clearing. Somehow, she knew that was where they were bound.

Edna confirmed Danica's guess when she instructed everyone to gather around the pool and join hands in a semicircle. The moon peeked over the edge of the canopy above as soon as all their hands were joined. They all heard the giggling at the same time.

Danica knew she should feel threatened, considering she had just heard strange voices coming from the undergrowth ahead. Contrary to that natural reaction, she instead felt peaceful.

"Hello," Edna greeted the unseen visitors.

"Hello," responded a voice that sounded familiar to Danica. Three distinctive giggles followed the word.

Danica's eyes widened when the three nymphs stepped out of the undergrowth. "Xanica?"

The redheaded nymph giggled and nodded her head. Now that she was fully grown, Danica noticed something distinctive about the nymph, beyond her red hair. Xanica's sister nymphs were archetypical of their kind, willowy with subdued, attractive curves. Xanica, on the other hand, had Danica's hefty bosom and hips, giving her more of an hourglass shape.

"You know them?" Edna asked, her tone revealing that the question was largely academic.

"The Mistress says these are from you," Xanica effervesced, touching her hair, breasts, and hips.

"The Mistress sent us because we have shared," Xara added.

"The Mistress likes you," Xaqua giggled.

"Yes," Danica answered Edna's question, her face filling with color. Feeling eyes upon her, Danica turned toward Celes and saw the woman smiling coyly at her.

Celes tightened her lips and turned back toward the nymphs with laughter in her eyes.

"You're here to prepare us for something, aren't you?" Edna asked.

All three nymphs nodded. "Come. Sit," Xanica instructed. She sat down on the edge of the pool, dangling her legs in the pool at the center of the clearing. Her sister nymphs did the same simultaneously.

The clones broke from the circle of hands first, moving toward the pool without even the slightest hesitation. Each kicked their shoes off as they moved forward. Edna moved next, leaving three witches and two redheaded magic users feeling quite self-conscious.

Danica noticed that they all stepped forward in perfect synchronization, on the same foot. A few steps later, everyone's legs dangled in the pool as the moon edged over the clearing.

The three nymphs kicked their legs slowly in the water once everyone else sat down next to the pool. The nature entities softly sang a song in words none around the pool recognized – yet somehow they all knew them as well. The language brought to mind the sound of the wind through the trees, the bubbling of water over rocky stream beds, and golden sunlight. The surface of the pool turned luminescent from the light of the moon above, the glow steadily increasing as the volume of the singing nymphs increased.

Xanica's deeper voice provided an earthy counterpoint to the falsetto of the other two nymphs. The music resonated within the women surrounding the pool, and they joined in the joyful song. Above the surface of the pool, faint rainbow patterns of dancing light appeared. These slowly coalesced until they were recognizable as man-shaped.

One by one, Danica, Marlena, and the three newly joined witches ceased to sing. The images above the pool were now recognizable, and the women were simply too choked up to continue. The still rainbow-colored images were transparent, but were unmistakably the women's mothers.

The nymphs, Edna, and the clones finished the song, and Danica's mother immediately moved toward her daughter. "I'm so proud of you, Danica."

"M-mom?" Danica questioned, her voice faltering and tears filling her eyes.

Marlena's mother moved toward her daughter as well. "You've grown into such a beautiful woman, Marlena."

For the first time this night, Edna looked surprised. The three witch's mothers moved forward to greet their daughters, who were better prepared for the visitation after experiencing it before. Ashley's mother turned toward Edna and smiled. "Thank you so much for taking such good care of my daughter. She's become a beautiful, intelligent woman of purpose. I can see your confusion. Don't worry, everything will be answered in just a moment."

All of the spirits standing upon the water of the pool turned toward the nymphs, who stood, pulled their legs from the water, and turned toward the woods behind them. Two women in gossamer gowns parted the undergrowth and stepped into the clearing before the nymphs.

Danica felt her breath catch. Not only was she looking at her mother, but now she knew she sat in the presence of divinity as well. The overwhelming sense of awe infusing her from the two women revealed their true nature, despite their common appearance. The one appeared to be an elf, albeit one even more exotic and alien than typical for the race. The other woman possessed a curvy, motherly figure and a plain beauty that was striking in its simplicity.

The two deities – Gaeaye the Earth Mother and the Mistress of the nymphs – turned toward each other and smiled. Though only the nymphs truly understood the significance of the action, everyone around the pool somehow recognized how momentous the occasion was when the two divine beings joined hands.

The mother of the Fey smiled in a disarming, shy way. To see such an obviously powerful being display such emotion proved profound to those who watched. The same sort of serene, bashful expression decorated the face of the Earth Mother. Around the pool, the women relaxed as a sense of calm washed over them.

"My name is Cele'drial," the elven woman announced. "I have not yet had the opportunity to do so, but I would like to welcome you all to my valley." Turning toward Gaeyae, Cele'drial added, "Our valley."

Birds erupted in song when the Earth Mother acknowledged Cele'drial's statement with a squeeze of the elven deity's hand. The nymphs immediately rushed forward to wrap their arms around Gaeyae, even as birds swooped down from the trees to perch on Cele'drial's shoulders.

Gaeyae spoke next. "Edna will be able to explain much to all of you. Some she already knew, while she will now understand much of that hidden from her until this moment. For now, our time is short. Fate has placed you all at the tipping point of an ancient conflict, one which began long before even this world was born. We have gifts for each of you, to aid you in what is to come."

Celes' mother turned toward the divine visitors, receiving a nod in response to her unspoken question. She cupped her hands before her, and mists rose up from the pool to swirl in her hands. Smiling, she walked across the surface of the pool with regal grace toward her daughter. "My dear Celes, your gift will complement your powers. Through the power of the mists surrounding this vale, you will be able to move about this world like the wind. Wherever you are needed, you will be there." She reached out, presenting the faintly glowing sphere of swirling mists to Celes.

Celes reached forward, feeling warmth emanating from the sphere in her mother's hands. When she touched it, the mist glowed brighter for a moment before appearing to vanish into Celes' hands. She opened her mouth to ask a question, but her mother cut her off before she could speak.

"You will know."

Celes' mother stepped back, and Ashley's mother moved toward her daughter, bearing a sphere of the magical mists as well. "Your powers shape time to your will. Your gift will show you how time shapes the world and events around you."

Ashley reached forward to accept her gift, as Celes had before her.

Andrea's mother moved forward next. "Andrea, your gift is from the Earth Mother, if you will accept it."

Gaeyae smiled at the blonde witch. "I can feel the caring in your heart, not just for those around you, but for all you encounter – be they man or beast. The power to nurture and heal will be yours, if you will serve this world in love."

Tears rolled down Andrea's cheeks. "I will, Blessed Mother."

"Then I welcome you, my blessed child," Gaeyae responded.

Andrea's mother cupped her hands, and they shined with light the color of new leaves. When she opened them, she held an amber amulet depicting a tree. Andrea accepted the amulet from her mother, immediately sliding it around her neck.

Marlena's mother moved forward next. "My beloved Marlena, you have dreamed of your gift." She held her hands before her, and the artifact Marlena used to enhance her powers appeared within the upturned palms. Mists swirled around the item, and when they faded, they revealed the now smaller artifact in the form of a necklace.

Marlena accepted the amulet, feeling not only the familiar power of the artifact, but also something more. She knew that with this gift, her dreams – and her illusions – could become reality.

Danica's mother stepped forward. "I'm not good at all this magic, but you know that, my dear." She cupped her hands in front of her, and adopted an almost surprised expression when the mists gathered between them. "Your gift will protect those you love from the powers of darkness."

Reaching out, Danica touched the swirling sphere and its power sank into her hands.

Cele'drial spoke next. "All of you are gifted by the magic of this night, but some of your gifts cannot yet be revealed."

"We have a final gift for you – one as unprecedented as the magic of this night, and this gathering of destiny. It is born of the greatest power in all of creation," Gaeyae smiled beatifically, "Love."

The five women standing on the pool stepped toward their daughters once more. When they set foot on dry land, their forms shimmered and appeared solid. The appearance proved true when each woman wrapped their daughters in an embrace.

Danica sobbed with joy, feeling her mother's arms around her. "I miss you so much, Mom. I love you so much."

Around the pool, the other women shared equally tearful moments.

Danica's mother stepped back from the embrace, wiping tears from her own eyes. "I have to return. Know that I watch over you, always. Keep an eye on your sister, brother, and your father. I'm well, and happy. You have a great destiny ahead of you, Danica, and I know you'll just keep making me proud."

Turning back to the two deities on the other side of the pool, Danica's mother said, "Thank you for this opportunity."

Both of the all-powerful beings nodded and smiled.

Ten sets of clasped hands refused to let go, mothers and daughters unwilling to part. At last, the older women released their daughter's hands, and stepped back onto the surface of the pool, becoming transparent specters once more.

"The world moves. Use your gifts to bring hope to this world, and all of creation," Cele'drial said, stepping back into the undergrowth. The nymphs and Gaeyae walked into the foliage with her.

Everyone turned toward Edna when the visitors vanished from sight, hearing her gasp.

"A premonition?" Ashley asked.

"The elves – the demons from the desert are attacking them," Edna answered.

"They're about to get more than they bargained for," Danica declared with confidence and determination.

"Mother was right, I do know," Celes said with a smile. She turned and spread her arms wide. Swirling mists formed a cloud in front of her outstretched hands. "Let's go send some demons back to the hells where they belong."

Edna waved toward the misty portal. "I'll get the girls back safely in the manor. Go."

The four friends moved to stand with Celes, and then they all stepped into the magical doorway.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

C'seka felt the importance of this night, the signs burning in his blood. Summoning his new pawn, the demon stepped into the Hellgate portal.

Opening his mind, C'seka utilized his power to seek out the Fey, without knowing why he did so. While the reasons eluded the demon, he knew the action was appropriate. The power of this time called to him.

Silently commanding his pawn to shift the focus of the portal, C'seka growled in satisfaction, seeing the elven females gathered for an ancient ritual. On this night, their wombs would warm. After this ceremony, they would be able to bear children. Their thoughts echoed in C'seka's head.

Moving toward the portal, the demon prepared to seize his destiny.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The hunchbacked demon screamed again, as much in frustrated pain as in attack. Despite the elves' lack of magic, their arrows burned like acid, and they survived the attacks of the three demons with remarkable tenacity. The elves cowered from Y'cryl's attack, many holding their ears. The did not, however, fall as they should.

The hiss of Las'byam's deadly light beam cut through the night, felling yet another of the Fey. The frustrating creature refused to die, and even attempted to rise to attack again. Las'byam glanced at the Korplenz demon nearby, finding the creature deep in concentration.

Kazz'akel exerted his mental strength on the three chosen females, steadily eroding their ability to resist. Fey arrows deflected harmlessly off the sphere of telekinetic force surrounding the demon, the deadly missiles of no more concern than an insect. The Korplenz demon's jowls quivered with laughter when the first female broke. Her collapse sapped the will of the others, and Kazz'akel's power gained new purchase in their minds.

One after the other, only seconds later, the females collapsed. With their will broken, Kazz'akel required only minimal concentration to keep them incapacitated. Opening his pig-like eyes, the demon saw the Banreez abandon long range attacks in favor of its poison claws. The demon's first attack drew blood, and sent an elf to the ground with a gaping wound. Encouraged by the display, the Prizart swept in on its leathery wings to attack with physical strength as well.

Though lacking in intelligence, the two demons obeyed orders well – at least those originating from their hellish Master, Meckataur. The hellspawn concentrated their efforts on driving the elves away from the hut where the three untouched Fey lay slumped on the floor. As soon as a clear enough path emerged, Kazz'akel would teleport in front of the hut and secure the females. If the elves realized the goal, they would give their kindred the peace of death rather than allow them to fall in demon hands.

Tensing the muscles beneath his deceptive layer of flab, Kazz'akel prepared to teleport. The elves moved to high ground, attempting to gain an advantage over the two vicious demons wreaking havoc amongst them. The path cleared, and soon he would obtain Meckataur's sacrifices.

A gurgling growl of angry surprise bubbled from the Korplenz demon's fat lips. It sensed new minds in the area – familiar minds.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 06



Tearing into an elven male's shoulder, Y'kryl wrenched his powerful arm, attempting to tear the Fey's limb from his body. Although rewarded by the sound of snapping bone, the first jerk did not succeed in removing the elf's arm.

Y'kryl had no opportunity to try again.

The elf in the Banreez's grasp simply vanished. Having tasted the Fey's blood, Y'kryl turned toward the elf's new location, and saw the source of the sudden disappearance.

Andrea glanced up from the bleeding elf at Celes' feet, anger and determination in her eyes. Stretching her hand out before her toward the demon that had caused the elf's injury, she released her power.

Fueled by rage over the elf's terrible wounds, Andrea's power slammed into the Banreez with sizzling power. Despite the demon's resistance to the elemental attack, the lightning hurtled the creature backward to slam into a weathered stone spire reaching up from the sand.

Consumed by mindless bloodlust, the Prizart demon had not even noticed the arrival of Danica and her friends. Hurtling toward a nearly defenseless elf already bleeding from numerous wounds, Las'byam discovered the women's arrival the hard way.

Lashing out instinctively with her power, Celes teleported the demon. Already in full flight, Las'byam had no chance to react. The Prizart demon's claws dug into the body of the downed Banreez before its momentum crushed the other demon and its own body into the stone spire. Both creatures slowed down for the space of a heartbeat, but resumed normal movement almost immediately.

Ashley let out a frustrated hiss. Her power proved as useless against the demons this time as it had the last. Reaching into her pouch, she pulled out two potion vials. The orange potion would vanquish the Prizart, while the midnight blue one would obliterate the Banreez. She planned to use her power to speed up time around her, reaching the two greater demons before they could react.

Seeing two of the demons down, the elves took heart and found strength deep within them to again send deadly shafts toward the attacking hellspawn.

Kazz'akel realized the danger of the potions Ashley held the moment he saw them. If she had potions for two demons, she might very well have a third. Sensing Ashley's intent to unleash her power and vanquish his allies, the Korplenz attacked first. Lashing out with his mind, he forced her to her knees with a bolt of pure psionic force.

The sound of the Korplenz demon's attack rang in Danica's head like a thunderclap. She instantly tracked down the source, and knew the creature was surrounded by a bubble of telekinetic force. Summoning up her will, Danica utilized her powers to strike back at the demon.

Kazz'akel fell onto his back when Danica's invisible mental attack not only shredded his shield, but also slammed into him with tremendous force. Only the instinctive use of his power prevented the blow from blasting a hole in his corpulent hide.

Ignoring the elves in favor of more dangerous female prey, the Prizart and Banreez leapt toward the gathered women. While the Banreez made quick progress, the Prizart ran into a wall of gale-force wind summoned by Andrea. Its wings catching the wind, the demon tumbled head over heels in the opposite direction of its intended travel.

"Spit!" Celes cursed when the wind spoiled her throw, sending the potion hurtling past the Banreez to break harmlessly against the sun-baked ground beyond.

The sight of more badly hurt elves caused fear for them to surge within Andrea. Raising her other hand, she added the power of cold to the wind shear already directed at the demon. Even in the desert, there is moisture in the air. That water froze instantly under the assault of Andrea's power, driving the microscopic crystals into the Prizart's scaly flesh as it fought to escape, discharging its burning beams and globes of darkness indiscriminately in confusion.

Danica felt the Korplenz demon's fear of Andrea's power. She also sense that it wanted to reach a small shelter nearby – desperately. So, cold can hurt you? Summoning to memory the strongest ice magic she knew, Danica quickly intoned the words of the ice storm spell.

Recovering from the painful fog in her head, Ashley saw the Banreez advancing against Ashley's power. Celes waved her hand, and Ashley assumed her sister witch had attempted to stop the demon with her powers. The demon shimmered, but remained in place. Prepared for her attack this time, it was able to counter her power with its own.

Fighting through the lingering effects of the psionic blast, Ashley dropped one potion back into her pouch, keeping the midnight blue one in her hand. After a deep breath, she summoned up her power and sped up time around her.

Marlena finished casting her spell, summoning up a phantasmal iron golem between the approaching demon and herself. The Banreez swiped a powerful arm at the iron monster, and a look of surprise crossed its face when the golem accepted the blow without flinching. Powered by her artifact and the mists of the vale, Marlena's phantasmal creation had substance that no other such magic could possibly create. For the first time in many years, Marlena felt useful as she ordered her golem to strike back at the confused demon.

Even as Danica had heard his thoughts, so did Kazz'akel hear Danica's. Recognizing the danger of the powerful magic she summoned, the Korplenz called upon his innate ability to teleport away.

Moving across the sand in less than a heartbeat, Ashley hurled the vial as soon as she reached the edge of Andrea's continuing hurricane assault on the two demons. It sailed perfectly into the swirling wind, the current easily visible to Ashley in her magically accelerated state. Tumbling end over end, the vial flashed between the golem and the demon toward its target.

Danica spoke the final word of the spell a moment too late, unleashing the fury of her magic on bare sand instead of her demonic target. Her head darting back and forth, Danica searched for the demon to redirect the storm to attack it.

Working on a similar assumption to Ashley's, Celes used her power not on the demons, but on herself. She appeared directly in front of the floundering Prizart at the same moment the Korplenz escaped Danica's spell. The power of Andrea's magic refused to touch Celes, flowing around her instead. "So long, ugly," she blurted out, and hurled her potion.

The Banreez roared in fury as the vial struck it. The roar transformed into an ear-piercing scream for just an instant, and then the magic of the vanquishing potion turned the demon's power against it.

Simultaneously, the Prizart felt the touch of witch's brew on its flesh as well. Celes vanished from view, teleporting back to her previous position next to Marlena, and only then seeing the massive iron golem. Around the hulking metal beast, she could see the Banreez writhing.

Twin explosions startled Danica, causing her to lose her focus. Her spell fizzled out, and demonic ichor splattered her from behind. Spinning on her heel, she saw an iron golem pound its fist into ground covered in demon slime. A second expanding spray of vanquished demon caught Danica's eye and let her know that the Prizart wouldn't be troubling them any longer either.

Appearing in front of the shelter containing Meckataur's prize, the Korplenz summoned up its strength and tried to break the will of the attacking witches and wizards. Edna's prediction proved well founded, and Kazz'akel could find no purchase in any of the women's minds. Spitting a vile curse as he observed the other two demons exploding, Kazz'akel ordered the elven women to stand up and approach. He had no desire to fail his Devil Master.

"There!" Danica shouted, seeing the Korplenz in front of the hut. Andrea had dropped her hands to cover her ears when the shriek of the Banreez nearly deafened her, causing her assault to cease. She didn't hear Danica, but Celes, Ashley, and Marlena did.

Marlena sent the golem toward the remaining demon, and Celes summoned up her power to teleport again. Despite the speed of their reactions, they couldn't compare to Ashley in her magically accelerated state. She reached into her pouch for the yellow potion within, running toward the demon.

As fast as she moved, nothing moves faster than thought. The Korplenz heard Ashley's thoughts, and knew the danger. In a panic for his very existence, Kazz'akel shimmered and vanished.

Danica noticed the absence of the demon's mental power the moment the creature vanished from view. With her psychic senses, she knew the demon was gone from the area entirely.

Ashley stepped forward and pulled back the hide door of the hut as soon as her potion shattered against a pole of the small structure. She found three confused looking elf maidens, but no demon. The strain of using this power always taxed Ashley, and she had to let it fade.

"The last one is gone," Danica called out. Seeing Ashley in the doorway of the hut, she asked, "What's in there, Ashley?"

"Three elven women. They look like they've been under the power of the Korplenz," Ashley answered.

Dropping her hands from her ears, Andrea quickly drank in the scene around her, and then turned her attention to the barely moving elf nearby. Dropping to her knees in the sand next to him, she curled her fingers around her amulet. "Earth Mother, give me the strength to heal him," she begged.

Shining green light and a sense of peace surrounded Andrea. Reaching out to the wounded elf, the light flowed from her to his wounds. Before her eyes, the wounds closed, and the pained expression on the elf's face softened.

As the rest of the women converged on Andrea, a pair of elves approached as well. Seeing their companion under Andrea's care sit up with a look of surprise, one quickly said, "There are others who are hurt. Will you heal them as well?"

Nodding her head and smiling beatifically, Andrea said, "Yes, just show me where they are."

"Celes – healing potions," Danica suggested, staring with pride and wonder at the recovered elf. "We can help ease their wounds and pain until Andrea can heal them all."

The dark-haired witch reached into her bag of holding, and then moved toward an injured elf. A few feet away, Danica did the same. There were many injured – some gravely – and it took some time to see to them all.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Meckataur's roar of anger brought down a shower of dust and debris from the rafters above, and forced both of his human servants to cover their ears. The Devil's wings flexed, preparing to lift him into the air to swoop down on the cowering Korplenz.

Mastering his anger, Meckataur spun instead, his powerful wings cutting through the remnants of the stone throne behind him as though it was made of paper. He already possessed the power of a Korplenz, and found it difficult to control. Destroying the demon would gain him nothing, and cost him a useful tool.

"Begone!" Meckataur roared upon turning back toward the Korplenz. The demon wisely vanished immediately. "Weaklings," the Devil snarled. "I'll take the Fey myself."

"May I offer an alternative, Master?"

Turning toward the voice, Meckataur hissed in surprised pleasure. C'seka stood in one corner of the crumbling hall over three bound women – elven women.

"Will these suffice, my Master?" C'seka asked, bowing humbly. He knew the answer to that question – he had known it since discovering the women with his sensing power. Utilizing his new slave's Hellgate to reach them, he'd taken the Fey before they even knew to mount a defense.

"They are untouched?" Meckataur growled in anticipation, leaping down from the dais to approach his newest servant.

"They are, my Master," C'seka replied with a toothy grin, knowing this gift would advance his position in Meckataur's favor. Combined with his own growing powers and knowledge, the Devil's approval would offer more opportunities to gain power.

"Bring them, and follow me. You will participate in the ceremony – exalted above all others."

C'seka gathered the ropes binding his prisoners, lifting all three women easily with his growing physical strength. Following his hulking Master, C'seka could almost taste the blood Meckataur's favor would bring him.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Andrea sat down hard on her bottom. The action revealed the elf's shoulder before her, the burn there now completely healed. Andrea smiled, but barely had the strength to do so. The healing had drained her, leaving her feeling as weak as a kitten.

"Easy, Andrea. The healing power may come from the gods, but it's going through you. You can only handle so much," Danica admonished with concern.

"I couldn't leave them hurting," Andrea weakly protested.

Helping Ashley work on protective charms, Celes interjected, "We could have healed some of them with potions and spells. You've got to save your strength for when it's needed. What if the other demon had returned? Could you have summoned up your powers to fight?"

"You're right, I'm sorry," Andrea sighed.

"I'm sorry for being so snippy, but you scared me there," Celes admitted.

Andrea smiled at her sister witch and said, "It's okay. I'll be more careful."

The elder of the elven village approached Ashley and Celes, asking, "These charms will protect us from the demons?"

"They're no guarantee, but they should give you time to mount a defense," Ashley answered, putting the final touch on the final charm. "How is it that you have so little magic?"

"Much of the past has been forgotten. Our people were driven here unprepared, and many perished before we adapted to our new home," the elder explained.

"This isn't exactly a pristine woodland, it may just be too alien for elven magic," Danica suggested.

Ashley shook her head. "This isn't a woodland, but it's pristine wilderness. There's magic here, for sure. Look around at everything in the moonlight – the flow of the dunes, the rocks formations rising from the sand..."

Danica followed Ashley's directions, and she saw it. In the daylight, the vast emptiness of the desert inspired only feelings of death, not the life she would associate with elven magic. In the chill air and pale blue glow of the moon, the desert came to life. Danica could see the beauty here, and she could feel the magic.

Around her, her friends felt the same things as Ashley spoke, pointing out the beauty they'd all ignored until this moment. The elves of the village approached, looking out into the night shrouded sands as well.

When Ashley finished speaking Danica turned back to see the elves all looking out into the distance with expressions of rapture. As much as the scene affected Danica and her friends, it impacted the elves one hundred fold. In that moment, they connected with their home in ways far beyond simple appreciation.

A collective gasp arose from everyone still looking out into the desert. Danica turned, following their gaze, and saw the silhouette of a beautiful woman rising from the sands. The elves all moved forward as one, walking toward the willowy female form.

"A Sahareid – a desert nymph," Ashley said softly. Danica turned to see a tear running down Ashley's cheek. After wiping away the tear, Ashley smiled at Danica and said, "They're extremely rare. They are signs of life's enduring strength and perseverance, able to take root anywhere and thrive, even in the harshest environments. I don't think these people will be without the magic of their heritage any longer. The Sahareid will reawaken the magic within them."

Andrea stood up from where she sat. "I feel so much better. One moment I thought I was going to collapse, and now I feel..." She paused took a deep breath, drinking in the cool nighttime air, "Wonderful."

Seeing the elves all absorbed in communing with the nymph, Danica turned away. She felt as though watching them was wrong somehow. "I think we should probably go home."

The rest of her friends all nodded, feeling as though they were intruding as well. Without another word, they gathered together around Celes. With a moment of concentration, Celes summoned up the mists and created a portal home.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Meckataur drank in the power, chanting in the guttural language of the underworld. No pale moonlight illuminated the subterranean maze beneath Nightmare Castle, but the magic of this night permeated the stones, streaming into the Devil perched on the edge of the abyss.

Behind the demon lord, holding the ropes around the sobbing elven women's necks, C'seka felt the evil energy flowing through him as well. Meckataur's chant ended, and C'seka moved forward without prompting. Though knowing nothing of the dark rite, C'seka felt the pull of the magic and knew exactly what to do.

Thrusting the women over the edge of the chasm at Meckataur's feet, C'seka drooled in anticipation. The virgin Fey contorted horribly, hanging in the air above the hellish portal below. The screams of pain and horror from the women filled the caverns, echoing from the cold stone walls for miles into the earth.

Once again, Meckataur chanted in the tongue of the hells. Flames roared from the depths of the chasm, streaming upward to turn the clothing of the entrapped women to ashes. Though the magic protected them, it allowed the women to feel the pain of the flames. Their screams turned shrill and ear-piercing, far beyond the limits of their mortal voices.

As the Devil chanted, two more arms pushed out from his torso with dreadful popping and tearing sounds. The volume of the demon lord's vile chant increased, his clawed fingers flexing in anticipation. With a final roared word of power, Meckataur thrust his talons through pale skin. All three women collapsed as though boneless, crumpling around the Devil's powerful arms.

Elven blood fed the dark magic, ripping asunder the thin veil between the world of mortals and the pit of darkness. Though the size of the physical chasm did not change, the pinhole in the barrier protecting the world from the hell beyond yawned. Flames roared upward, carrying with it the sounds of snarls, growls, and hisses of the demons beyond. Though their bodies hung lifeless from Meckataur's grasp, the souls of the elves continued to scream, tied to their bodies by the dark rite.

Scores of winged demons streamed from the breach in the dimensional shield, quickly followed by other demons clawing their way upward. The hellish denizens smelled mortal blood, and streaked with ravenous hunger into the world above.

Tearing his claws free of the elven women, Meckataur held his hands before him and hissed in black ecstasy. "Rise!" He commanded as the demons filled the caverns, all cowering in deference to the power of the Devil.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Such exquisite agony," Zoraster sighed, looking into the multitude of mirrors before him. "All moves in accordance with my plan, and yet I cannot spark the fire that will consume this world, forging it anew. So close to righting the wrongs perpetrated upon this world by the vain gods, and yet I must wait."

Closing his eyes, Zoraster's mind turned toward the genesis of his enlightenment. So close to wresting you from your prison, Colette. When all I have planned comes to fruition, the gods will not be able to prevent me from returning you to my side.

The Archmage suppressed his memories, knowing they distracted him. The clear image of Colette's smile in his mind softened his steely heart, causing him to question the methods necessary to redeem the world. Concentrating on the evil that took her from him, the fire of his rage hardened Zoraster's will once more.

Clenching his hands into claws, Zoraster stood and turned his face to the heavens, his voice steadily rising in volume and vitriol. "What will you do when your pawns die in multitudes – oh arrogant pretenders to godhood? What will you do when the very foundation of the world you have ruined cracks and crumbles? What will you do when the faith of your pawns waver, sapping your stolen power? What will you do then, oh omnipotent ones?"




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 06



Zoraster's hands slowly fell to his side, hints of a smile curling his lips. "Nothing. You will do nothing. You will be nothing. Only then will justice and right prevail once more in this world."

Silently, motionlessly, the obelisk known as Godsbane throbbed in anticipation.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

I hope you're enjoying Book II in Danica's trilogy. Please take a moment to vote/comment — it's what keeps us writing! Individual chapter votes can tell me a lot, so do vote on every chapter if you wish.

Apologies for the delay. I'm struggling with my muse again. Those of you who were with me at the end of Danica know how it is. The story will come out, because I'm dedicated to that.

Big thanks to Roust Writer for his editing. I don't know how I got along without his keen eye, quick wit, and insight.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 07



Author's Notes: 

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission.

© Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline. Those who have read my other works such as Blackhawk Hall and King Thakkorias will also recognize many characters in this chapter.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Well done," Edna congratulated her victorious friends.

Ashley held up her red potion vial, letting out a sigh. "Rexxus wasn't there."

"Pshaw," Edna scoffed. "Soon enough, my dear. That one surely stands high on the side of darkness. You'll be drawn together, and the hellspawn will pay for the misery it has caused."

Danica glanced over at the hulking Iron Golem standing next to Marlena and smiled. "Unless you need some furniture moved around, I think you can send it back now, Marlena."

The redheaded illusionist reached out and caressed the Golem's arm. "I just can't believe it. I don't feel the slightest strain to maintain it. It's still an illusion, or rather a phantasm, but it's so real -- so powerful." She sighed, "Oh well," and waved her hand at the golem.

The magical creation faded into translucence, then transparency, before finally vanishing from view.

"Well, three of us have used our gifts now. I think I'm going to use mine first thing in the morning. There are a lot of people I'd like to hide from the prying eyes of Zoraster's cronies," Danica revealed.

"And Meckataur's," Ashley added. "The Devil will not take the destruction of three greater demons and disruption of his schemes lightly."

"Every time I consider it, I think they're one and the same," Danica mused. "They may both be working for their own goals, but I believe the demon was part of Zoraster's plan. I just hope they double-cross and destroy each other."

"Not likely," Edna advised.

"I know," Danica admitted. "Do you understand your gift, Ashley?"

The witch shook her head. "I suppose I'll discover it in time. I have the feeling it's a passive power -- something that will just happen."

A glob of demon goo dripped from Danica's arm and fell to the floor with a squishy plop. She wrinkled her nose in disgust and declared, "Bath time." When she yawned immediately afterward, she added, "Then bedtime."

Nods and murmurs of agreement from everyone quickly followed that statement.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The sound of a loud chime roused Devan from a fitful sleep. With a groan, she sleepily pulled a pillow over her head. The chime sounded again, the tone finally registering on her sleep-fogged mind.

Sitting up quickly, she tried not to jostle her partner in the bed. Only after she stood up did she remember that she'd went to bed alone. Once a rare occurrence, Devan now took her rest without a romp between the sheets far more often than not.

Running her fingers through her disheveled red hair and smoothing out her chemise, Devan walked toward the mirror, which chimed again as she approached. "I'm coming. I'm coming," she grumbled and whipped off the silken cover.

Devan scowled at her frightful reflection for a moment, and then shook her head with a sigh. Touching a jewel at the base of the mirror frame, the magic of the device sprang to life. Her reflection faded, the image replaced by the equally disheveled face of Alicia, Queen of Egoria. "What's wrong, 'Licia?"

"A demon just appeared in the castle and attacked the servants. Christi contacted me, and the same thing happened at Blackhawk."

"Is everyone alright?" Devan asked.

Alicia brushed a lock of blonde hair out of her eyes and yawned. "Yes, the clerics banished the demon and then healed the poor girl it hurt. Ashtar destroyed the one in Blackhawk. The demon there didn't fare so well. I really wonder if we shouldn't train all our servants to fight like Christi and Cerebus do."

"It would never work here. Most of Blackhawk's servants had some sort of fighting skills to begin with. Yours are all pampered city people. I'll contact Darkni and do a little scrying to see if I can find out what's going on." Concentrating for a moment, Devan put together a few disjointed facts in her mind. "It may just be because of the night. There are some celestial events going on that can power demon magic."

"Nothing happened in your tower?" Alicia asked.

Devan shook her head in the negative. "I was sound asleep. I doubt a demon could get in here, and one certainly couldn't sneak in without me knowing. Go back to bed, Alicia. Everything is under control." Raising her voice a little, Devan added, "You too, Thakkor. I know you're back there. You have a Kingdom to run. Let those of us who understand magic handle this."

Devan smiled when she heard a chuckle from the King, confirming his presence just out of view of the mirror's magic. "I'll rouse some of the students from their beds to spread out through the city, and I'll ask Darkni to put some wizards on the streets in the rest of the country. You two get some rest, so you can keep your heads together for proclamations and such in the morning."

Alicia responded, "If you need anything, just let me know."

"I will," Devan said, and then dismissed the magic of the mirror. With a spoken word and a gesture, she sounded the alarm within her tower and the magic school in the city. Quicky weaving an illusion to disguise her frumpy appearance, Devan activated the magic of the mirror again.

"Spread out through the city, and be on the lookout for demons. One has attacked here in the castle, and in Blackhawk Hall. Report anything you find to the tower or the castle." Devan deactivated the mirror again, her message now waiting for the rousing wizards to view as soon as they reached their mirrors.

A transparent image of Devan's mentor appeared within the tower. The image of Darkniciad nodded and said, "I see you have been alerted. I am sending wizards now to gather information."

A knock on the door caused Devan to turn her head in that direction. With a wave of her hand, she opened the portal, already knowing who stood on the other side thanks to her magic. Turning back to her mentor, she said, "I'm doing the same. We'll put together everything in the morning. If I'm remembering the signs right, this will probably be going on all night."

Darkni's image nodded and winked out of existence. Devan turned toward her visitor and asked, "Did you find out something, White Stag?"

The red-skinned wizard looked uncomfortable within the stone walls of the tower, as he always did. Wizard magic was a rarity amongst the nomadic people of the plains, and few who possessed it made the decision to further their studies amongst the city dwellers. "I sense a great disturbance in the natural order. I feel my people are in danger."

"There's a lot of ground to cover out there on the plains, White Stag. Do you think demons are attacking the plainsmen?"

"This is stronger. I believe my tribe is under attack. I must aid them," White Stag declared anxiously.

"I know you well enough to trust your senses. Give me a moment to put on some clothes and I'll teleport you there."

White Stag glanced at Devan in confusion for a moment, bringing a smile to her lips. She snapped her fingers, dismissing her illusion to reveal her disheveled hair and light chemise. White Stag nodded in understanding, pointedly looking away from Devan's barely clad body to stare over her shoulder.

Devan rolled her eyes slightly at his modest action, turning toward her closet to fetch a robe. One of the few students whom she'd yet to bring to her bed, White Stag always perplexed her. She knew that he found her attractive, but he never reacted to any of her rather overt invitations.

Stepping into the closet, she selected a robe appropriate for the weather and wilderness conditions. She reached for the hem of her chemise, looking back over her shoulder as she did so. White Stag stood stiff as a board, staring pointedly at a spot on the wall. She knew that he could see her in his peripheral vision, as the size of the room made it impossible for him not to. Letting go of the garment's hem, she pulled the door of the closet shut before changing.

As she pulled on her robe, Devan shook her head at her strange new way of thinking. What once irritated her now intrigued her. White Stag's refusal to bow to her feminine charms sent a little tingle up her spine, causing her to shiver. Oh no, Devan -- you're not even ready for that, she thought, quickly pushing away the troubling -- but heart-warming -- feelings creeping through her.

Straightening her robes, she realized that she'd selected one she rarely ever wore. The robe barely showed off her body at all, hiding nearly every inch of skin, and masking every curve. Deep in her heart, she knew why she'd chosen it.

Shaking her head to chase away the thoughts, she stepped out of the closet and said, "Let's go check up on your people."

No matter how hard she fought it, she couldn't help but feel the warmth spreading through her when White Stag took her hand in preparation for her to work her teleportation magic.

Oh, dear, she thought, and quickly chanted the words of the spell.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Marvelous -- truly marvelous," Ebonar remarked, gazing into the fiery portal at the demons wreaking havoc around the globe.

"I care not what mortals my minions devour, but you ask that they attack ally and enemy alike," Meckataur rumbled suspiciously.

"Actually, your wonderful pawns attack my allies in great strength, while the weakest make token assaults upon my enemies," Ebonar revealed, opening another portal for the host of snarling demons eagerly awaiting passage in the great hall of Nightmare Castle.

Memories of Zoraster's scheme resurfaced in the Devil's mind, snapping with crystal clarity into focus with the events of this night. I have underestimated you, mortal, Meckataur thought. You better understand the nature of sacrifice and power than I gave you credit for. I will not be so fooled again.

Ebonar chuckled. "Yes, you see the exquisite web I weave now. Mere appetizers, to set the table for the great banquet to come."

"It would be foolish to enact such against me, mortal," Meckataur warned.

"They are but fodder to feed our hunger, Demon Lord. We both benefit, as the only true players in this great game. The pawns live or die by our whim."

Meckataur growled, remembering earlier events of the evening. "What of pawns that change their colors."

"Ah -- Danica. Yes, she and her circle have proven somewhat troublesome. In time, I will show you the means to gain retribution."

"Troublesome?" Meckataur roared. "Three of my greater demons vanquished. She must be destroyed."

Closing his magical portal before more demons could scurry through, he said, "That should prove sufficient for now, I believe." Bowing to the demon, Ebonar said, "Patience, Meckataur. Would you not rather see her tormented before she is destroyed? I assure you that you will find the means to do so most entertaining and enriching."

"You intrigue me, wizard," Meckataur rumbled.

"I simply need more time to prepare. Shall we gaze upon your children, and see how they grow?"

Meckataur's muzzle split into a grin, and his massive head nodded. Though he knew all his spawn experienced and learned, the Devil felt no need to reveal that to Ebonar.

"Excellent," Ebonar responded with a clap. "I find their growth pleasing, as I'm sure you will."

With that, Ebonar turned to the scrying portal to direct it toward the first of Meckataur's hellish spawn.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Appearing in the midst of the tepees of White Stag's village, Devan cursed as a demon swooped within a few feet of them. She activated a shield spell stored within a ring on her pinkie toe with a thought, just in time to stop an arrow from blasting through her shoulder.

Demons swarmed everywhere, attacking the members of the tribe gathered in a circle at the center of the village. The men surrounded the women and children, who huddled with knives and bows, ready to fight if necessary. White Stag gestured and spoke the words of a spell, sending magic missiles hurtling into a flying demon.

The creature barely reacted.

"We need to reach them," Devan warned as a demon opened a gaping wound in one of the defenders' chest.

White Stag nodded and pulled a wand from his deerskin vest, aiming it at a demon as he ran toward the center of the village. Devan followed, a demon bouncing off her shield as the hellish being streaked toward them both with wicked claws extended. She quickly spoke the words of a spell, sending lightning streaking toward a demon approaching the villagers. The creature fell to the side, but quicky regained its feet.

White Stag blasted another demon, the icy missiles from his wand giving the creature pause and causing it to shriek in pain. Both wizards skidded to a halt as they reached the villagers.

"Make them think twice about attacking," Devan said, handing White Stag a wand that mimicked the Cone of Cold spell.

White Stag nodded and accepted the wand, immediately discharging the magical weapon at the nearest demon. The creature's skin turned white with frost, and it fell from the sky with a shriek to writhe on the ground.

Devan quickly gasped out the words of a spell, her hands flying through the gestures. White Stag recognized the words of the spell, although the magic was far beyond his ability to yet cast. When she completed the spell, he dropped the wand.

Demons bounced off the globe of invulnerability, hissing and clawing at the invisible barrier.

"This is not good," Devan muttered. She'd fought demons before, but never any that resisted magic like these. Even as she thought about it, the frost-rimed demon White Stag had blasted regained its feet, flapping its wings to soar into the air once more.

Remembering some information she'd read in reports from the Duchess of Blackhawk Hall, Devan turned toward White Stag. "Keep that wand ready, but my shield should keep them out for now. I'm going to get some help."

"Our shaman lies dead, White Stag -- slain in his sleep despite his charms," one of the villagers growled, eyeing the demons futilely attempting to breach the globe of invulnerability.

"I know someone who knows about demons. I'm going to go get them." Reaching into her bag of holding, Devan withdrew several healing potions. "These will have to do until I can bring a healer here."

Pulling another object from her bag, she handed it to White Stag. "Don't use this except as a last resort. It will teleport everyone here to Darkni's island, but the magic is really hard on the body. It could very well kill anyone who's injured, and may take some of the demons along with you."

"I understand," White Stag acknowledged.

"I'll be back as soon as I can." With that, Devan attempted to teleport to her sister's odd valley.

She let out a surprised exclamation as she appeared within her own tower instead, several feet above the floor. Her ring of feather-falling prevented her from falling, but didn't help her pride at all. "Okay, I guess I'll try the Hellgate," she muttered when she hit the floor.

Summoning up the magical portal, she quickly stepped inside and attuned the other end to Danica's valley. While the scene materialized, the portal wouldn't let Devan pass through.

One of the demons in the Hellgate pocket dimension walked up to Devan, reaching down to squeeze her bottom. Devan absently clenched her fist, causing several cries of agony to erupt within the Hellgate. She didn't notice, but the demon closest to her did not react like the others, although it did back away. "Go away, all of you. I don't have time for you right now."

Looking into the portal, she thought, This is so stupid. "Look, valley, I'm Danica's sister, and I need to get in there. She said to let me in -- remember?"

Devan saw no change in the portal, but she reached out a hand anyway. Her hand passed through the portal. "Yes!" Devan stepped through and hurried toward the front door of the manor.

Danica felt the brush against her wards, the contact jolting her out of a sound sleep. Devan? She thought, accidently projecting her thoughts in her half-asleep state.

I need some help, Danica. I've got demons attacking one of the villages out on the plains. They're shrugging off lightning bolts and surviving cones of cold, Devan thought back, trying to remember how to find her sister's room in the manor.

Danica sat up and tossed on a night robe, crossing the room to open the door. Devan stood right outside it. "I'll wake everyone. We've already been through this once tonight."

"You already woke me," Celes grumbled, walking around the corner. "You've got to find some way to get a handle on your powers when you're tired. What kind of demons are we dealing with?"

Devan shrugged and said, "I don't know. I didn't have time to pay much attention."

"I'll get Marlena. You go wake up Andrea and Ashley," Celes said with a crooked smile.

Danica offered a confused look, but walked down the hall to Andrea's room. When she opened the door, she understood Celes' expression. I guess the two of you weren't quite as tired as I was.

Andrea and Ashley lay cuddled together on the bed, their clothing scattered around the room. Danica walked over and patted both of them on the bottom. "Hate to do it, but my sister needs our help. She's got demon problems."

Andrea let out a sleepy little groan, but the word demon caused Ashley to pop straight up. "Rexxus?"

"Devan didn't get a good look. She said they're shrugging off lightning bolts and cones of cold," Danica answered.

Celes appeared in the doorway. "There's people hurt. We need to go now."

That caused Andrea to pop straight up. Both she and Ashley scrambled for their clothing.

"I'll grab a bunch of the vanquishing potions we made," Celes said, and then hurried to find the potions.

Danica turned to walk out the door, back toward her own room. "I'll get ready."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

C'seka hissed in irritation when Devan walked through the portal. He could still taste her exquisite flavor in the air -- so similar to the first woman that had awakened his new power.

Shimmering back into Nightmare Castle, the demon huddled into his favorite corner to brood.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Appearing in a flash of light with Danica and her friends, Devan looked around and said, "Globe of Invulnerability held up."

Andrea immediately moved toward an injured and moaning plainsman. Ashley's eyes darted from demon to demon, quickly taking stock of the attackers. "Minor demons. They shouldn't be much of a problem. We won't be able to attack them with our powers from in here, though."

"We'll teleport out there and send them back to hell," Celes declared.

Ashley's brow furrowed in concentration for a moment. "Wait. We can't attack them with our powers, but maybe we can use a spell."




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 07



Ashley removed her hands from the healed wound of the plainsman. "We've never tried that before."

Celes shrugged. "No time like the present, but we need a spell."

Ashley waved her sister witches over. "I have one. It's a general vanquishing spell for minor demons. It should work on these, even if they're supplemented by Meckataur's power."

The three witches gathered around Ashley, listening to her say the chant. They repeated the words once, and then said them with the redheaded witch. After the second repetition, Celes and Andrea indicated that they could remember the words. All three witches joined hands, and spoke the spell.





Sisters of the Mists Ch. 07



"I guess it's just you and me, Andrea."

"Do you want us to help with the dishes?" Andrea asked, the tone of her voice betraying her desire to return to the castle as quickly as possible.

"Go on," Celes said with a wave of her hand. "I can see that you want to get back, and I'm sure Danica wants to spend more time with her sister."

"Well, we're off then," Danica declared. She held out her hand, and Andrea quickly crossed the few steps necessary to clasp it. A few words of magic later, they stood within Devan's tower once more.

As soon as they appeared within the cluttered, round room, a portal winked into existence nearby. Devan appeared on the other side of the portal, waving to her sister and the blonde witch. "Shortcut," Devan said with a smile.

Andrea and Danica stepped through the portal, which deposited them back into the Royal apartments and immediately vanished. Christi patted the couch next to her and said to Andrea, "Come have a seat."

Danica pursed her lips to avoid a knowing smile when Christi winked at her. She knew that Andrea stood to endure a relentless onslaught of sexy teasing. When Devan sat down and gestured, Danica crossed the room to sit next to her sister.

"Darkni and Ashtar should be here in an hour or two," Thakkor revealed. "We do know a bit more now, though. The demon attacks we experienced here are nothing compared to attacks in Draxnog and Ferrartene. It absolutely stinks of a distraction. We've come to the conclusion that the attacks there are nothing more than an excuse for them to step up their military mobilization."

"It doesn't do a lot of good if you know it for what it is, though," Danica said and shrugged.

"Unfortunately, we're about the only ones who see it that way. I've talked with Leoric, and he's still hesitating." The King pounded his fist on the arm of his chair as he finished.

"Easy, Thakkor," Alicia admonished her husband. "Most of our neighbors have been at peace for decades. They are reluctant to believe that time is at an end. None of them are fools, however. They are mobilizing and preparing, just not as quickly as we would like. They do not wish to appear threatening to their neighbors. Our buildup is overlooked, because everyone knows Draxnog constantly attacks our borders."

A knock sounded on the door, and Thakkor called out, "Come."

The door opened and a finely armored soldier stepped inside to salute smartly. "Your Majesty, I have someone I would like you to meet. I believe he is worthy of immediate rank, which only your word can bestow."

Thakkor nodded and said, "I trust your judgement, General Collins. I'll see him and give him whatever rank you think is appropriate."

"He waits outside, Your Majesty."

The King's eyebrows twitched upward. "If you're that anxious, send him in and we'll take care of this right now."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," the General responded with yet another smart salute. He turned back toward the hall and said, "His Majesty will see you now."

Danica gasped when Nicholas walked in the room to stand next to the General. She locked eyes with him, feeling as if they'd parted moments before, rather than months.

After several seconds of the two staring at each other, Thakkor cleared his throat and chuckled. "I take it that the two of you know each other?"

Danica felt her ears burning as the King's voice snapped her out of her trance. She saw color rising in Nicholas' cheeks as well as the warrior focused his gaze on Thakkor. "My apologies, Your Majesty," Nicholas said and bowed. "Yes, Danica and I are acquainted."

"Well then, Danica, what do you think of Nicholas' abilities?" Thakkor asked.

With a sword, or with other things? Danica thought. "I've watched him stand against six men intent upon murdering him, giving a remarkable account of his abilities. I've also seen him face down an Astral Imp. I met him in the midst of a long journey to help family friends for no reward whatsoever."

Thakkor nodded and said, "Commendable." Turning to the General, he asked, "And you, General?"

Retrieving several sheets of paper from a satchel at his side, the General walked over to Thakkor and presented them to the King. "This will detail Nicholas' leadership experience. He has served as a decorated Knight Commander for one of Ferrartene's northern baronies for some time now."

"Ferrartene -- interesting," Thakkor said as he leafed through the documents. "It looks like you had a promising career there. Why leave? You may speak freely, and there's no need to bother with the honorifics. We're informal here today."

Nicholas answered, "I could no longer bear the weight of my conscience. There are dark forces at work within my home nation. Though I do not doubt the morals of the local commanders, the orders we received smack of foul purpose."

"And why come here?" Thakkor asked.

"Every tale I hear of this nation speaks of noble purpose and care for the populace. My time within your borders has only bolstered my confidence in those tales. I would be proud to serve under your banner, in any capacity you see fit."

Thakkor nodded and let out a grunt of approval. "General, what rank do you believe Nicholas should receive?"

"General, Your Majesty," General Collins answered.

"As I said, I trust your judgement. General it is -- effective immediately."

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Nicholas and the General said in perfect unison, with simultaneous salutes.

"Congratulations," Danica offered with a smile.

Alicia walked up to stand beside Danica and said, "If the two of you would like to catch up, feel free. We can always send for you if we need you." Danica then heard the Queen's thoughts, I hope I am doing this properly. If you need some privacy, I'll set a room aside for you here in the castle.

I can hear you perfectly, Alicia. Thank you. I might just have to take you up on that offer.

I would offer Andrea a room as well, but I have little doubt that her sleeping arrangements are already provided for, if she chooses to stay. I know Christi quite well. A little mental chuckle punctuated the Queen's final projected thought.

"I would like to catch up, but I assume Nicholas needs some time to settle in. I'll stay here and offer whatever insight I can, and we'll catch up later," Danica answered.

"Just ask anyone, and we'll direct the two of you to each other," Alicia responded.

Nicholas and the General saluted once more, and then left the room. Danica found it very difficult to concentrate through the rest of the discussion, thoughts about Nicholas overshadowing everything else in her mind. Only the arrival of Ashtar and Darkniciad snapped her out of her aroused trance.

"Most dire tidings we are bringing," Ashtar sighed.

"Dire, indeed," Darkniciad agreed. "We both believe that Meckataur has opened a permanent gate to the hells within Nightmare Castle. If this is true, the Devil will be able to draw forth nearly unlimited numbers of demons to his call. He will need to subvert all of the hellspawn to his will, but otherwise will find unrestricted access to the hells."

"With each demon that is being bending its knee to the Devil, Meckataur's power will be growing. More demons he can then be bringing to dominate," Ashtar added.

"What can we do?" Thakkorias asked.

"We will need to study this. Such a breach of the planes is unprecedented," Darkni answered.

"We'd need an army to even get close to Nightmare," Duke Cerebus grumbled. "We'd also either have to cross Freeland or look like we're marching on Draxnog by going around the lake."

"Magic is the only likely solution. We will find a way," Darkniciad asserted.

"We'll work on that too," Danica agreed. "Witchcraft may have a solution, and we probably have as much knowledge of that in one place as anywhere."

"Right your are being in that," Ashtar said with a smile. "Not underestimating your own Art should you, either."

"We should return to my island and begin our quest," Darkniciad said.

"Let us know if you discover anything," Queen Alicia said with a smile.

Once Darkni and Ashtar returned to the island, Thakkor suggested they take a break for the evening meal. Danica and Andrea accepted the offer to cheat with supper again, much to the delight of Celes when they arrived back at the manor with another prepared meal. Edna knew instantly that the two women wished to return to the castle -- without using her psychic powers. Andrea and Danica happily returned to the castle with everyone else's blessing a short while later.

Andrea returned to the Royal apartments, but Danica doubted that she would remain there long. Between snippets of conversation and a few strong thoughts, Danica knew that Andrea was within Christi's web.

Danica used her powers to silently request the offered room from the Queen, and for someone to lead her to Nicholas. Shortly thereafter, she closed the door behind the two of them, her passions running high.

"I never thought to see you again," Nicholas said as Danica closed the door.

"Same here."

"Has anything changed?" Nicholas asked. Though he kept his voice under tight control, his thoughts revealed the emotion behind the words beyond any possibility of Danica mistaking them.

"A lot of things," Danica answered. "I don't know if they're the changes you want, though," she added with a half smile.

Nicholas sighed. "I think I understand. I'm not sure I could give you all the attention you deserve right now, considering my new command."

"I have a lot on my shoulders too," Danica agreed.

Smiling, Nicholas said, "Maybe someday."

"We have tonight," Danica quietly breathed. Memories of her desire to crawl into bed with him a second time when they first met washed over Danica, fanning her passions higher.

"You haunt my dreams," Nicholas huskily revealed, stepping toward Danica.

Danica abandoned words then, stepping forward to kiss Nicholas. Their kisses quickly escalated, along with their passions. Danica pulled away from Nicholas with a loud, sharp gasp. "Take me." She grabbed the waist of his pants and jerked them down off his hips.

Nicholas kicked off his shoes and shrugged his pants down to his ankles, stepping out of them as Danica spun and unhooked her bra. Placing her hands on the table in front of her, Danica flipped her auburn tresses as she looked over her shoulder to say, "Take me," again.

Nicholas pulled up the hem of Danica's skirt, flipping it up over her back. He immediately hooked his thumbs beneath the waistline of her panties.

Danica bent a little lower and growled, "I need you. Take me."

Nicholas pulled down her panties, letting out a little sigh as he revealed her rounded bottom. Danica spread her legs wider, gasping, "Oh, yes," as Nicholas put one of his hands on her hip and pressed his erection against her folds.

Both Danica and Nicholas groaned as he sank into her with a firm push. Once the dangling orbs beneath his cock settled against her nether lips, Nicholas' other hand grasped Danica's hips.

He withdrew from her, and then dug his fingers in as he drove his erection home into her depths once more. Danica reached up with one hand to unbutton her blouse, but had to slap the hand back onto the table with his next powerful thrust, in order to maintain her balance.

Nicholas' hands slid up Danica's waist, bunching up her blouse as he continued to thrust his manhood into her wet heat. "Get it off me," Danica demanded, her voice jumping an octave every other word as his stroking cock penetrated her.

Nicholas curled his hands under her, slipping his fingers between the buttons. Once he had a firm grasp, he jerked the cloth, popping off the buttons. Danica's brassiere slid down her arms to her wrists as her breasts swung free.

"Gods, yes. Now take me -- hard," Danica gasped.

His hands slid back to Danica's hips and dug in once more, and Nicholas' next thrust caused her hands to slip forward on the table a fraction of an inch. Danica let her hands slide forward as he continued to drive his manhood into her, steadily bending lower over the table. When her nipples scraped against the slick finish of the table, Danica planted her hands and resisted the power of his thrusts.

Nicholas grunted with exertion, giving her every ounce of his passion. Their flesh collided with sharp smacks, mingling with the squishing sound of his member sliding into her saturated depths and their sounds of pleasure.

The hot friction ignited a bonfire in Danica's loins, sending her spiraling quickly toward climax. "Yes!" Danica exclaimed repeatedly in clipped gasps.

The volume of Nicholas' grunts increased even as Danica teetered on the edge. Her mouth opened in a silent scream as her eyes pinched tightly closed. Danica's jaw trembled for a few seconds as her lungs burned from lack of air, and then she sucked in a sharp breath as her orgasm erupted within her.

A staccato yelp of release burst from Danica's lips as she climaxed. Two thrusts later, Nicholas slammed his cock into her depths hard enough that Danica's hands slipped. She fell flat against the table, still coming, and heard Nicholas' growling scream at the same moment she felt his eruption of semen filling her.

Nicholas continued to grunt and twitch, his fingers dug into Danica's hips hard. "Oh, yes -- so hot," Danica yelped as Nicholas pulsed and throbbed in her tightly clenched sheathe.

His forehead dropped to Danica's back, and Nicholas gasped, "Oh... My... God." She felt him quake as his member swelled and twitched within her. Danica let out a long moan as the twitch set off a warm wave of climactic energy within her.

The couple stood bent over the table for a few minutes, recovering from the strength of their climaxes. They both straightened at the same time, Nicholas pulling his cum coated erection from her.

"Oh, that was so good," Danica moaned as she turned and wrapped her arms around him. His still half-hard erection pressed against her, causing Danica to quiver. "Do you want to go get in the bed?"

Nicholas nodded, and Danica kissed him before gliding away toward the bed. She swept a towel off the night stand, which she'd placed there before going to find him. Danica fell into the bed as Nicholas reached it, and pressed the towel between her legs to stem the flow of cream already seeping from her. He lay down on the bed and Danica snuggled up against him.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

A few doors down the hall, Andrea yelped into Christi's moist folds. The Duchess leaned over Andrea's lithe body, flicking the blonde's clit with her talented tongue. Below Christi's teasing tongue, her husband's thick cock stroked Andrea's depths at a slow, steady pace.

Though she ached for release, Christi forgot about her own needs when Andrea could no longer concentrate on anything except her own mounting pleasure. The Duchess let out a purr and gasped, "Faster," to her husband. She then suckled Andrea's bud with strong pressure, to push the blonde even closer to the edge.

Christi moaned around Andrea's clit, feeling the blonde's hot breath blasting against her sex. All three dripped with sweat from the heat of the room, as the Duke increased the pace of his thrusting hips.

Andrea let out another squeal as Cerebus' cock stretched her walls wide, pushing to the entrance of her womb. Her legs trembled, supported only by her curled toes. The tickling itch of impending climax in Andrea's sex transformed into a powerful buzz, causing her muscles to stiffen. Andrea's grip on Christi's legs tightened, and then the blonde witch climaxed with a loud scream into the Duchess' folds.

Christi released Andrea's clit to moan, "Mmm, yes." The Duchess wiggled her bottom in the air as the thrashing blonde's hair caressed her thighs. Cerebus let out a loud growl, and Christi looked up into his eyes. She could see the strain in his face, and knew he would come soon as well. "Do it. Fill her up," the Duchess encouraged her husband, returning her lips to Andrea's clit.

Mindblind thrust his hips forward a few more times, and then slammed his cock home with a loud, growling scream. Andrea let out a loud squeal as his seed burst against the entrance to her womb, coating her walls and filling her with warmth.

"Feel good?" Christi asked her husband with a sexy smile.

"Damn, yes," Cerebus gasped, and then let out a growl as his body twitched. The movement of his cock inside Andrea caused the blonde to squeal again.

Christi pushed her husband away with a sexy purr, keeping the pressure on until he withdrew from Andrea. As soon as he slipped free of Andrea's depths, Christi engulfed him in her mouth.

The Duke growled, grabbing a fistful of his wife's dark hair as she sucked his cock clean. After a few strokes of her mouth, Cerebus tugged her free of his softening erection and pushed her downward. Christi understood what he wanted, and lapped up the streams of Andrea's juices dripping down his smooth balls.

With a satisfied moan, Christi turned back to the still trembling Andrea. "That was good, but I want a better taste."

Andrea's eyes opened wide, and she let out a little yelp as the Duchess licked her lips and leaned downward. A warbling cry bubbled from Andrea's lips as Christi lapped up the cream from the blonde's folds.

Christi's talented tongue lit Andrea's fires again. She caressed her firm breasts, rubbing the stiff nipples as she watched the dark-haired Duchess lap her. Christi let a large dollop of Cerebus' cream pool onto her tongue, and pulled away from Andrea just long enough to sensually swallow it.

The pressure of another climax swelled within Andrea, causing her heart rate to jump and her breathing to quicken. As Andrea's hips rocked in a gentle wave, Christi increased the speed and pressure of her lapping tongue.

Andrea tightly clamped her thighs around Christi's head as she came, letting out a squeal. Christi moaned into Andrea's folds, lapping up the last of her husband's cream, now flowing freely with the blonde's juices.

The Duchess pulled away to allow Andrea time to recover from her climax. Once the blonde caught her breath, Christi crawled over her to kiss the blonde's neck and whisper. "Why don't you return the favor while we wait for Cerebus to get ready again. Then once he pumps me full of cum, you can lick me clean again."

Andrea shivered and moved to switch positions with the Duchess on the bed.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica let out a quiet moan as she felt Nicholas' erection pressing up against her leg. Kissing him softly and caressing his cheek, she said, "Make love to me."

Nicholas kissed her back, and Danica let out a high-pitched sigh of anticipation as he shifted on the bed. Lifting one knee to rest it on his buttocks, Danica reached down between their bodies to guide his stiff organ inside her.

As his erection slid inside her, a quavering sigh shook Danica's body. She pulled him close against her and kissed the top of his head as Nicholas slowly rocked his hips.

Danica's entire body filled with warmth, her face, chest, and breasts flushing red as Nicholas' manhood caressed her depths with short strokes. She rolled over onto her back, pulling him with her, and his stiff organ penetrated her deeper on the next thrust. He maintained the slow pace, letting her feel every inch of his cock filling her.

They remained in close contact for long minutes as Nicholas steadily nudged Danica toward orgasm. When Danica's high-pitched, clipped moans revealed her impending climax, Nicholas slightly increased the speed of his thrusts.

The grip of Danica's arms and legs tightened around Nicholas as she let out a long warbling moan. Her walls tightly contracted around his erection as she came, drawing a gasp from Nicholas.

The ripples of soft ecstasy continued to flow through Danica's body as Nicholas' hips rocked faster, his body responding without direction to his own impending climax. "Come for me, Nicholas," Danica moaned, her voice jumping several octaves from her continuing pleasure when she said his name.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 07



Nicholas let out a few quiet grunts as he reached the point of no return. He pushed inside her to the hilt, and Danica felt him first stiffen, then tremble. As his body quaked against her, Danica felt his organ pulse inside her, creating a pool of pleasant warmth in her depths as his cream coated her walls.

The couple nearly fell asleep, still joined, basking in the afterglow of their gentle orgasms.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Tortfird leaned in close, raising one hand to stroke the cheek of the blonde priestess. He smiled, his handsome face exerting as much power over Brena as any charm spell.

The priestess of Areolene -- goddess of nursing mothers -- blushed and took shallow breaths, her lips parting slightly of their own volition.

"I long for you Brena," Tortiford sensually whispered, his warm breath washing over her as he spoke.

Brena's blush deepened. Never in her life had she expected to find love, save that of her goddess. Now, she faced a man beyond her wildest dreams, proclaiming his love for her. He saw past her matronly figure and her plain face. He spoke of the beauty that shined from within her like a beacon to him.

He leaned in closer, and Brena surrendered. Their lips met in a kiss she would remember until her dying day -- her first.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Staring into identical mirrors from far different locations, both Zoraster and Ebonar smiled. "Soon," both men evilly chuckled in near perfect sync. 

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

I hope you're enjoying Book II in Danica's trilogy. Please take a moment to vote/comment, because that's how you toss your symbolic coin into my hat. Individual chapter votes can tell me a lot, so do vote on every chapter if you wish.

Apologies for the delay. I'm struggling with my muse again. Those of you who were with me at the end of Danica know how it is. The story will come out, because I'm dedicated to that. I promise that I'll get new chapters out as quickly as possible.

Big thanks to Roust Writer for his editing. I don't know how I got along without his keen eye, quick wit, and insight. 



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 08



Author's Notes:

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission.

© Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica's legs were still weak from her early morning climaxes when she walked out of her room in Boldheart Castle. Looking down the hall, she saw Andrea emerge from another door. The barely dressed Duchess of Cratel kissed the blonde witch one last time in the doorway, turning to wink at Danica when she saw her down the hall before stepping back into the room.

"Good morning," Danica chuckled as Andrea gingerly walked toward her.

"Morning," Andrea responded in languid tones, and then squinted as she winced.

"You're walking a little funny," Danica teased walking toward her friend. Her statement was a little ironic, because she stumbled on her wobbly knees only a moment later.

"So are you," Andrea said and laughed.

"You could ask for healing, you know," Danica suggested, nodding her head toward Andrea's mound.

"It just feels selfish. I'll feel better in just a little while anyway," Andrea responded with a shrug.

Danica smiled and said, "I suppose you're right. We should get back to help with breakfast. I really need to get started on the toys for the girls, since they're doing everything we ask them in return. I want to go try out my gift before I go to work in my lab, though."

"Do you want to go say goodbye to Devan?"

"She could sense that I would be occupied from the moment Nicholas walked into the room. We said our goodbyes before I went to my room last night. Ready to go then?" Danica held out her hand to Andrea.

Andrea nodded and clasped Danica's hand. A few moments later, they flew back home on the wings of magic.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Heather's honey blonde hair flashed in the morning sunlight as she whipped her head around, having heard a familiar sound. Walking quickly toward the ceramic bowl across the room, a wide smile spread across her lips when she saw the folded paper lying in the bowl. She cherished every letter from Danica, a reminder of the time they'd shared together. She picked it up quickly and opened it.

Unlike most of Danica's letters, this one was short. A wide smile spread across her lips as she read the letter.

Send me a note back when you get this and both of you are home. Then, meet me in Grant's workshop. I'll open the portal there.

Love, Danica

Heather let out a squeal of delight, overjoyed that Danica was coming to visit for the first time since she'd spirited the couple away to their new home.

"What was that all about," Grant chuckled from the counter of the shop adjoining their home in the front.

"Close the door, turn the sign, and come in here," Heather called back.

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing," Heather laughed. "Just close up the shop, sweetie. Trust me."

"I'll be there in a minute, Heather."

"Hurry up!" She playfully scolded, quickly writing a return note to Danica on the same piece of paper as her friend's correspondence.

"What is it, Heather?" Grant asked when he walked into the house from the now closed shop. She didn't answer, but instead showed him the note. When a smile spread across his face, she folded the note and walked over to the ceramic bowl to send it back to Danica by touching one of the runes decorating the magical device.

The couple then hurried down to Grant's shop to await Danica's arrival.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Even though she couldn't physically hear the chime, Danica felt the magic vibrating through her. She paused in her work kneading out the clay on the table in front of her to say, "That was quick."

Andrea looked up from where she sat opposite Danica kneading a lump of clay as well and asked, "Heather already sent a note back?"

Danica nodded and stood up from her chair. Andrea let out a little giggle and stood as well. "Don't get too excited yet," Danica cautioned, "They may just be letting us know that they can't meet us until later." She then cast a spell over the table to ensure that the clay would not dry out in their absence.

When Danica opened the note, she smiled at Andrea. Andrea laughed and made an impatient gesture, urging Danica to cast her spell. A few words and gestures later, they stepped into the Hellgate portal.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

C'seka felt the familiar tingle and drooled in response. He immediately shimmered into the opening Hellgate portal, suppressing a hiss when he saw not only the powerful presence he'd felt for so long, but another female as well. Reaching into the women's minds, he changed his form and stepped from the undergrowth.

Danica turned with a scowl when she saw him approaching out of the corner of her eye. "I guess you all need a reminder every once in a while," she said ominously, and clenched her fist.

C'seka heard the cries of pain from the native demons of the pocket dimension, and certainly felt the touch of Danica's controlling power as well. He cowered, but still sent his charming energy flowing toward the two women.

"Get out of my sight. I told all of you that I don't want to see a hair on your heads unless I call for you," Danica warned, clenching her fist tighter. The demons of the realm screamed louder, thrashing sounds emerging from the undergrowth where the demons writhed in pain.

C'seka dropped to his knees, but hunger for this fascinating woman overpowered his pain, allowing him to remain and keep his body in the shape of Nicholas. Fighting against her control, he maintained the pressure of his charming power.

Danica let out an irritated growl and a gleaming silver sword appeared in her clenched fist. C'seka's eyes widened when she manifested the Soul Blade and he backed away on instinct, shifting painfully back into his natural form.

Danica took a single step toward C'seka, and the demon wisely dived into the undergrowth, immediately returning to Nightmare Castle, still in pain -- and still hungering for the powerful woman in the portal.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"There -- persistent little imp," Danica said and punctuated it with a satisfied snort. The Soul Blade vanished from her hand, and she turned her attention back to the portal, attuning its focus to Grant's workshop.

"There they are," Andrea said happily when the image of Grant and Heather standing in front of Grant's glass blowing equipment appeared within the portal.

Danica concentrated and opened the portal to the couple's home. Grant and Heather both smiled, immediately walking toward the portal when Danica beckoned.

Andrea wrapped Heather in her arms as soon as the woman stepped across the threshold of the portal, moving to hug Grant immediately afterward. "It's so good to see you both," Andrea greeted them after she released Grant from her arms.

"The same goes for us," Heather agreed. "You didn't mention that you'd be bringing Andrea with you, Danica."

"I wanted to surprise you," Danica revealed, taking her turn hugging the blonde. "Is everything going well?" Reaching down and rubbing her hand over Heather's distended tummy, she laughed and amended her question to "Is everything else going well?"

"We're making more money a day than we saw in our entire lives. Its all Heather can do to keep up, and that is after we doubled the prices for her etched bottles to cut down on the workload. I can barely keep up with the requests for colored bottles," Grant answered, opening his arms for Danica when she walked over to him.

"How would you like to see where we live now?" Danica asked the couple.

"We're going to take them back to the valley?" Andrea asked, her tone revealing that she liked the idea -- a lot.

Danica explained, "I originally planned to try this here in the portal, but I can feel that it won't work here. I guess the Hellgate is just too opposed to the magic of the valley."

"We'd love to see it, but we probably shouldn't stay long. We have a lot of work to do," Heather responded.

"I have a lot to do too," Danica agreed. "I moved the two of you here to hide you, and now I think I have a way to do an even better job of it. I'll give it a try, and we can visit for a few minutes before we all have to put our noses back to the grindstone."

"That sounds fine to me. I'm not overly enamored of the job we're working on right now anyway," Grant said and let out a quiet snort.

"Why's that?" Danica asked.

"There's just something about them," Heather explained. "They're new in town, and they just aren't fitting in. Something about them makes my skin crawl, and our neighbors are saying the same thing."

"Can you picture them in your mind?" Danica asked.

"I suppose," Grant answered.

Danica closed her eyes and concentrated, saying, "Just think about when you've seen them, whatever you remember." Only a moment after she finished speaking, Danica could sense the images forming in both Heather and Grant's minds.

Opening her eyes again, Danica said, "I see what you mean. There's something not right about them at all. I wouldn't doubt that they're aligned with Zoraster somehow. Did they seem like they were interested in you in any way?"

Grant shook his head. "Quite the opposite. They seemed irritated that they had to deal with us. I actually told them that they could take their business elsewhere if they liked. Of course, there isn't another glass blower for miles, but that's not my problem."

Danica sighed in relief. "They must be there for your wares instead of you, then. That gives me another idea, but I'll explain it in the valley." She then turned her attention to the portal, shifting the focus back to the manor.

As soon as she stepped out of the Hellgate, outside the front door of the manor, Danica could feel a connection to her hidden gift again. "First things first, let's give this a try. I don't know what you're going to see or feel, but just trust me that this isn't going to hurt you in any way."

"We trust you, Danica," Heather said with a smile.

Danica allowed the connection she felt to open wide, and a wispy cloud formed over the heads of Grant and Heather. Knowing instinctively what to do, Danica directed the mists to rain down upon the couple.

"It doesn't feel cold or wet at all," Grant remarked as the fog-like tendrils swirled around him and his wife. The mists glowed with a faint blue light as they drifted around the couple, before finally sinking into the ground at their feet.

"Well, that's supposed to help protect you from people who would seek to do you harm. I can't say how, but I've seen the others use their special gifts, so I know that they do work," Danica explained.

Heather rubbed her hand over her tummy and smiled. "Do you think it protects the baby too? I get the strangest feeling that he feels happy... Warm... Safe."

"He?" Grant asked.

"Did I say that?" Heather asked, looking at her husband. When he nodded, she shrugged her shoulders and said, "I don't know, I guess it just feels right. I'm probably just imagining things. I couldn't know."

"The mists did look like they were around Heather's tummy a lot," Andrea interjected.

"Probably, because I was thinking about the baby too," Danica answered Heather's question. "Let's go to the lab. I want to work out something with you, Heather. I think I can keep track of your disquieting customers and see what they're up to. Even if they aren't after you specifically, they're probably up to no good. It shouldn't take too long. Then we can just visit for a while, until you need to get back to your work."

"I can't wait to see how this looks on the inside," Heather responded with a smile.

Danica opened the door and gestured for the couple to enter.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Ouch," Bear exclaimed in sympathetic pain for the man falling to the ground several feet from his original perch atop a well worn stump. "Do they have a healer nearby? I think that man might need one." He shrugged his massive shoulders and shivered to further illustrate his point.

Janelle pointed to a robed figure already moving toward the downed man. "They keep one on hand any time Mache is training. I don't like that man. He picks up new weapons like he was born with one in his hand. He's as strong as an ox and as witty as a jester, but he just seems..."

"Odd?" Bear suggested.

"Dangerous," Janelle corrected her husband.

"His trainers will temper him, teach him to focus his dangerous side."

Turning away from the window, Janelle softly said, "I'm not so sure."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

With a grunt and a groan, Eris released his seed into the sobbing woman's depths, jerking his manhood free from her only moments later. Tied to a chair a few feet away, her husband could only watch in horror.

Bending down, Eris pulled up his dark trousers, retrieving a dagger from a hidden sheathe within them as soon as he cinched the waist. Turning to the blindfolded and gagged woman leaking his semen from her abused sex, Eris rapped her sharply on the back of the head with the hilt of the weapon, knocking her unconscious.

Casting his gaze toward the bound man at the foot of the bed, Eris said, "I found that pleasurable. Though a requested portion of my service, I consider it a part of my payment as well."

Flipping the dagger up into the air, he caught it by the handle and took the few steps to reach the weakly struggling man in the chair. "Too bad there's not time for more entertainment." Pushing both man and chair out away from the bed with ease, Eris leaned down and said, "You are to know who paid my price. Ligget sends his greetings."

With that, Eris thrust the dagger into the man's abdomen and pulled the blade through the flesh, opening a wound that allowed the merchant's entrails to boil outward. "You'll have plenty of time to think about it. Belly wounds are slow killers." He then chuckled and wiped his blade on the man's shirt sleeve before sheathing the weapon and turning to leave.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ebonar banished the image in the mirror with a wide smile, especially pleased with Eris' performance. All five of Meckataur's spawn acclimated well, steadily gaining the knowledge they needed to blend in to their particular element of society. Once submerged within the populace, the demon spawn would steadily gain power, becoming the perfect generals for Meckataur's hordes -- and the perfect pawns for Zoraster's designs.

Thanatos had already proven his worth within the complex, taking on numerous tasks that he performed with skill and wit. Already he outstripped several of Zoraster's most trusted associates.

Ebonar smiled when a brush of his wards let him know that the demon spawn had arrived at the door of the inner sanctum. Waving a hand, he allowed Thanatos into his inner sanctum. "Welcome, Thanatos."

"You require my services?" Thanatos asked with a slight nod of his head.

"Indeed. I believe you will find this task both enlightening and enriching without any additional compensation."

A rare, wide smile spread across Thanatos' face, hidden deep beneath his hood.

"I have in my service one who has proven duplicitous, and I believe you are perfectly suited to remedy that situation in an appropriate manner. She struck a deal with a newly transcended Devil in exchange for power, which in itself is of no concern to me. However, she has used that power not to further her own usefulness to me, but rather to break a significant bond encouraging her service to me."

"This one has power?" Thanatos asked, with obvious hunger in his tone.

"Invisibility and shapeshifting," Ebonar answered.

"The Devil she serves?"

"Tanarax."

A low, amused growl rumbled from Thanatos' throat upon hearing the name.

"I see that your sire has informed you of Tanarax's defection from his host. I'm sure he would be quite pleased to see Tanarax vexxed, or even destroyed."

"Where can I find this witch?"

"That is simplicity. Having no ability to teleport, she has been unable to escape the cell in which I imprisoned her. I wish any information you may obtain from her, and for her to know the folly of her betrayal before she dies to increase your power."

"Your gain?" Thanatos suspiciously asked.

"You learn quickly," Ebonar responded with a smile. "In addition to her proper punishment, I seek to goad he whom she serves. In doing so, I seek to eliminate the threat he presents to my designs, and perhaps turn his power to my advantage."

"Where is the cell?"

"I will have you shown there immediately." Snapping his fingers, Ebonar summoned Camilla to lead the demon spawn to the woman. As soon as the pair left, he immediately activated a mirror.

"The rune wizards have completed their work, Master," Ebonar said with a bow of his head when the image of Zoraster appeared within the mirror.

A wide smile spread across the Archmage's face. "Excellent. Send them along at once."

"Of course, Master."

"Make contact with whatever wretched creature passes as the king of the goblins. I have plans to slow the preparations of Egoria and Freeland for my tide of war. I will inform you how to proceed when you have located the creature and have agents and magic in place to watch it."

"Normandal?" Ebonar guessed.

"Exactly," Zoraster said, and punctuated it with a long, wicked laugh.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica let out a satisfied sigh and said, "There -- all done. It's a little crude, but it will work. You're sure that design won't be too difficult, Heather?"

"No, not at all," Heather replied.

"Good. Just touch this wand to the etching when you finish it, and then put it back in the holder. There will be nothing magical about the bottles, but I'll be able to locate anything you etch with that pattern that this wand touches. I should be able to track down anyone with one of these bottles, and there's no way they can trace it."

"As much as I hate to say it, we should probably get back," Heather said and sighed.

"Hopefully we'll be able to visit longer soon," Andrea piped up.

"I hope so too," Heather responded with a coy smile.

Danica let out a little purr and said, "If you keep smiling like that, you're not going back to work -- at least for an hour or two."

The four laughed, and then Danica cast her spell, returning the couple to their home. Stepping back out of the portal in the manor once more, Danica said, "We should get back to work too, Andrea."

Andrea nodded, and followed her friend back to the lab, where their clay awaited them. A sound like a small explosion and a great puff of crimson smoke startled them both when they stepped into the lab.

"What in the world was that?" Danica laughed, seeing Celes and Ashley fanning their hands at the smoke, trying to keep it out of their faces.

"I scooped up some of the demon goo from those demons we destroyed. If this worked, then I should have some charms that can find demons with the same master as those we destroyed," Ashley explained. "Maybe we can wring some information out of one of the demons about that dimensional breach."




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 08



Celes backed away from the still smoking pot where Ashley had worked her witchcraft. "According to the instructions in the book, we have to let these sit for a while before we can try them out. Marlena has been walking on pins and needles waiting for you to get home. She has something she wants to show us. She won't tell me what it is, though."

Letting out a little chuckle, Danica responded, "Well, let's go get her then. There's no way I'll be able to work if she's anxiously peeking over my shoulder the whole time."

"I'm here," Marlena said from the doorway. "Come outside the manor with me."

"You look like you're fit to burst, Marlena." Danica said and laughed. "Let's go outside and see what she wants to show us."

Danica and the three witches followed Marlena outside, the redheaded illusionist walking far quicker than her usual pace toward the front door of the manor. Once outside, she turned to Danica and asked, "Could you conjure up a shield?"

"Of course," Danica replied, and brought up a magical shield.

Marlena launched into spell casting, summoning up a large disembodied hand between her and Danica. When the fist sailed toward her, Danica poured her strength into the shield. The magical fist pounded on her shield, but could not penetrate.

"When did you learn the Crushing Fist?" Danica asked with a wide smile on her face. Her smile vanished a second later when the fist slipped through her shield as if it wasn't there, coming within inches of her. The runes scribed on Danica's skin flared to life, preparing to protect her from harm. "What the hells?" She laughed a moment later, when the fist uncurled and the huge hand waved at her.

Marlena banished the hand, raising her hands over her head triumphantly. "It works!" She then laughed and said, "I can duplicate nearly any spell I've seen cast with my illusions. The added power of the artifact and my gift make them so strong that they may as well be the real thing for anyone who doesn't know better."

"You certainly fooled me. The part where it pushed through my shield nearly made me pee myself," Danica admitted.

Marlena laughed and then said, "I want to try something a little harder. Since you know they're illusions now, I want to try a lightning bolt. Between your shield, your runes, and knowing it's really an illusion, it shouldn't be able to hurt you. I want to see if it still feels at all real to you."

Danica shrugged her shoulders and said, "Okay, I trust you, Marlena." Turning to Andrea, she requested, "Just stay close and keep that amulet handy?"

Andrea giggled and nodded her head.

"Let me have it," Danica said, spreading her arms wide.

Marlena cast her spell, and an immense bolt of lightning leapt from her outstretched hands toward Danica's shield. Approximately twice the diameter of a normal bolt produced by the spell, it certainly looked intimidating as it crackled against Danica's magical protections. When it slipped through a moment later, she could actually feel tingles from the magic, even though she knew it was nothing more than an illusion. Her runes once again flared to life, negating the spell the moment the electricity touched her.

Danica let out a surprised breath as the other three women applauded. "I could actually feel it tingling. I wouldn't want to be on the other end of that spell if I didn't know it was an illusion, that's for sure."

"I don't want to depend on it, but this can help me be more useful to the rest of you until I can learn more offensive spells," Marlena said as she walked closer.

Danica let her shield drop. "More useful than you think. Odd magic that is stronger than you anticipate is surprising enough, but when it seeps through your shield, it's really disconcerting. If someone has a strong shield that we can't penetrate, this might just be the trick that throws them off and causes the shield to falter."

"I'll let you all get back to work now. I just couldn't wait to try this," Marlena said, smiling so wide that her cheeks ached.

Celes shook her head and chuckled. "Aye, you need to finish those toys for the girls before they drive us all crazy. They ask about them every five minutes."

Danica nodded toward the manor and said, "Let's get back to work then."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

After supper, Danica brought the girls to the lab to help knead the air out of the clay while she worked. Since her design was simple and functional, she was able to complete two of the toys before nightfall. The girls would have continued to work all night if she'd let them, their excitement building exponentially as they saw the toys take shape.

With the girls grudgingly ushered off to bed, Danica examined the two toys for any flaws before putting them in the kiln. About six inches long, the clay phalluses were mostly smooth, save for the flare of the head and a vein ridge along the length of the toys. Both also had a thin strip of clay positioned to stimulate the clitoris when the toy was fully inserted.

Finding no imperfections, Danica took the two toys to her kiln and put them inside, activating the magic of the device to fire her creations. She then walked to a shelf and retrieved a box full of balsa wood. Sitting this down on the table, she started crafting the models that would serve as the catalyst to create the cottages for Ashley and Edna. While nobody minded sharing a bed with Ashley, and Edna never complained about her sleeping arrangement, Danica knew that they would both be happy to have a place they could call their own once more.

Danica fell happily into her work.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The image hovering before Ebonar said, "I have located the king of the goblins, Master."

"Excellent. Were you able to locate a dupe to charm?"

Nodding, the wizard ordered a goblin to walk within range of the spell. The creature stood with a blank stare next to Ebonar's black robed agent. "This one claims to have the favor of its king."

"Send it on its way, and we'll soon see the truth of that statement."

"At once, Master." The wizard concentrated, and the goblin walked out of the range of the magic.

"Report back to me tomorrow. Should the goblin prove to be the spy we need, I will provide your reward immediately and send another to take up your observation post."

"As you command, Master," the wizard said with a bow of his head. The image immediately vanished, freeing Ebonar to return to the attractive wizardess awaiting him in his bedchambers, seeking to gain his favor.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Zoraster put down the last page of rune-scribed paper with a smile. The structures appeared to encompass all he wished from them. The inclusion of two subtle chains of runes within the vast network of magical sigils didn't surprise Zoraster, and brought a chuckle to his lips. Designed as a sort of back door for those who knew the full web of the magical glyphs, the rune chains would have allowed such a person to break through the defenses.

Naturally, these would not make their way into the finished product. He would expect nothing less from the ruthless and cunning workers of Art he recruited. Had the men known that their work was for him, he would have sought them out and destroyed them. Attempting to gain an advantage over the virtually unknown Ebonar amused the Archmage, however.

Walking over to his wall of mirrors, Zoraster summoned up the power of one to show a dark-skinned man covered in intricate tattoos sleeping in a crude bed. Knowing the location, Zoraster let the magic of the mirror lapse and cast a spell. A moment later, he stood at the foot of the man's bed.

The tattooed wizard sat bolt upright when he felt someone breach his defenses. Upon seeing Zoraster, he backed away toward the headboard, cursing in his native tongue.

"My apologies for disturbing your slumber, but I have need of your services."

"Master Zoraster? We were told that you died, and another replaced you."

"Rumors of my death are unfounded, but intentional. Though Ebonar assists me in guiding my designs, I am still in control."

"How may I serve?"

Opening the teleportation portal once more, Zoraster answered, "Come with me. I have need of your keen eye, perfect memory, and steady hand. I will provide for all of your needs and desires, so we may leave immediately."

The dark-skinned wizard swung his legs over the edge of the bed, immediately walking toward the portal in response to Zoraster's command. A few seconds later, the portal closed when he stepped into it behind his Master.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Are you still up?"

Danica looked up after attaching the thin piece of balsa to the model in front of her. "I just wanted to finish this little bit before I went to bed."

"Do you know how late it is?" Ashley asked, walking into the lab in her sleeping chemise.

"I get caught up in my work. That just means your cottage will be done quicker. If it's so late, then why are you still awake?" Danica raised her eyebrows, offering a look of mock rebuke, but then smiling immediately afterward.

"I couldn't sleep. I went to get a snack and noticed the light still on in here."

"Do you want a sleeping potion? We always keep a few on hand," Danica offered.

Ashley shook her head in the negative. "I'll be fine." She looked over the model and said, "You have such artistic skills. This has such tiny details, and seeing one of the toys you finished earlier sent a shiver up my spine."

Danica chuckled and reached for something in her robe pocket. "Those are really pretty simplistic. I have to make a dozen of them, and if I spend too much time on detail, I'll never finish." She then spoke a command word, and caused the toy she'd pulled from her pocket to expand.

Handing the toy to a blushing Ashley, Danica continued, "This was the first magic item I ever made. It took me forever to finish all this detail, and it would still take me days, even now."

Turning the phallus over in her hands, examining all the tiny details of veins and ridges, Ashley said, "This is amazing. It almost looks cast from the real thing."

A crooked smile spread across Danica's face, and she spoke the command word that brought her toy to life.

Ashley let out a little, "Oh," of surprise when the toy took on the feeling of flesh, grew warm, and started to throb. The color in her cheeks deepened.

"Has it been a while?" Danica guessed from flashes of thought she picked up from the redheaded witch.

Ashley nodded her head. "A long while."

"I could make you one of your own as soon as I finish the girls' toys and your cottages. I've made one for everyone else. I should probably make one for Edna too."

Ashley laughed and made a face. "That's really odd to think about. Edna is almost like a second mother to me. The thought of her... Well, you know."

"I understand," Danica said with a chuckle. Nodding toward the toy that Ashley still unconsciously caressed, she added, "That can do a lot more than it's showing right now. You could borrow it, if you'd like. It might help you sleep." Her steadily rising passions caused Danica's voice to gain a husky quality of desire. "It can't replace the real thing, but it can certainly fill you up in ways your fingers can't."

Ashley took a couple of deep breaths, caught up in the passion in Danica's eyes, and then nodded.

Danica smiled and patted Ashley on the bottom, guiding the witch toward her room. Ashley walked toward the bed immediately upon entering, and shrugged off her chemise even as Danica closed the door.

Turning back to the beautiful witch, Danica licked her lips as Ashley bent to slide down her panties. Danica worked on the ties of her robe as she approached the bed, shedding it and her bra along the way. She stopped at the edge of the bed to remove her panties, and then reached into a drawer to retrieve another of her toys. Ashley moved to one side of the bed while Danica slid into the other.

Danica whispered the command words for her toy into Ashley's ear, and then guided Ashley's hand downward. The witch said the command word, and then pressed the tip of the humming toy against her sex with a shudder. A long, quavering gasp burst from her as she slipped the toy into her wet heat. Danica matched the sound as she activated the magic of her own toy, sliding the curved fingers up against the bundle of nerves behind her mound.

Though Ashley's eyes were closed as she stroked the magical cock into her depths with ever-increasing speed, Danica's eyes were locked on the beautiful witch next to her. As her own pleasure mounted, Danica licked her lips and watched the toy rapidly penetrate and withdraw from Ashley's pink nether lips, coated in an ever thickening sheathe of milky-white juices. The beautiful witch's hips rocked up off the bed as her climax approached, her free hand squeezing her breasts and caressing the stiff tips.

Danica slowed her hand, delaying her own climax as Ashley climbed her mountain. She wanted to watch the witch come, and didn't want to be distracted by her own orgasm. She kept up just enough pressure to hold her just below the point of no return. Ashley whimpered and gasped as she drew closer, and then arched her back with a squeal as she exploded into orgasm.

Danica pressed harder on the pearl button of her toy as Ashley writhed on the bed, quickly reaching her peak as well. Both women shuddered and jerked as their climaxes played out. Ashley pulled the toy free of her depths when she could no longer endure the powerful sensations, unable to catch enough breath to say the command word that stopped the toy's magic.

Saying first one command word, and then the other, Danica deactivated the magic of her toys. When both women settled down from their heights, Danica picked up Ashley's toy, handing her own to the witch at the same time. Both women licked the other's juices from the toys, and then shared a kiss.

"I have another toy," Danica said with an aroused smile.

Ashley's eyes opened wide and she gasped, feeling her juices start flowing in anticipation. She couldn't help but look surprised when Danica pulled the fascinating harness from the bedside table. She let out a purr a moment later when Danica pulled the harness up over her legs, the magical cock pointing toward the witch on the bed.

Danica activated the magic of her toy as moved back onto the bed, pulling Ashley's legs apart and bending them up toward the witch's chest with feigned roughness. Reaching down, Danica guided the tip of her toy between Ashley's lips, and then buried it in a single smooth thrust, the other shaft of the toy penetrating her at the same time.

Grasping Ashley's thighs, Danica rocked her hips to fuck them both, her arousal spurring her to quick, hard thrusts. Between the humming of the toy and the hot friction, both women soared toward their heights with astounding speed. A little more used to the toy after practice, Danica was able to maintain the speed and power of her thrusts even as her climax approached. She fully understood the roving of men's eyes over her body as she watched Ashley's breasts bounce from the power of her thrusts, the sight spiking her pleasure higher.

"Oh gods, YES!" Ashley screamed as she came, the toy gathering up her flow of juices and ejaculating them through the shaft into Danica's depths. Danica let out a throaty groan as she felt the hot splash inside her, and closed her eyes as she reached her peak a few thrusts later. Both women screamed as Danica's abundant juices spurted against Ashey's cervix through the toy.

Joined and quivering, both women fought for air with their eyes tightly closed. When Danica finally managed to flutter her eyes open, she let out a gasp of surprise, and hurriedly looked around the room.

Hearing the sound of Danica's gasp, which sounded nothing like pleasure, Ashley opened her eyes. She was no less surprised than the other redhead, seeing the room in muted colors, and hearing nothing except the sound of their breathing.

"What just happened?" Danica asked, her voice sounding distant, almost like an echo.

Ashley realized what had happened, and closed her eyes again, reaching for her powers. She felt Danica start through the toy joining them, and opened her eyes again to see the room as it should be. Sucking in a great breath of air, waves of pleasure still running through her body, Ashley said, "Sorry. I think my powers just expanded."

"So what was it?" Danica asked with a little chuckle, and then jerked when a wave of ecstasy shot up her spine, causing the toy to slip free of Ashley's depths.

Ashley yelped when the magical phallus slipped out of her, and then let out a satisfied moan before she answered. "I'm not exactly sure, but I felt like we were between seconds, if that makes any sense. It was like we moved outside of time.

Falling down to the bed, her trembling fingers working on the buckles of her toy, Danica chuckled. Still panting for breath, she said, "C-celes hasn't manifested a power when she was aroused yet. I'm half afraid we're going to wind up trembling in a t-town square somewhere halfway around the world when she does."

Ashley giggled while trying to help Danica remove the toy. Between the two of them, they managed to unbuckle the harness and slide it down of Danica's legs. Danica lowered the toy to the floor, too lost in her afterglow to care about cleaning it at the moment. She collapsed onto her pillow with a content moan, feeling the burn of her muscles from the unusual activity of thrusting the toy into Ashley.

"I guess I'll be practicing with a new power again," Ashley said in sleepy tones as she cuddled up next to Danica.

"We're all right here if you need us," Danica languidly responded, sleep creeping up on her as well.

Shortly thereafter, both redheads drifted off to sleep.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The thief crept through the night, stealthily approaching his target. The unassuming little shop would appear a poor mark at first glance, but Halban was not one to judge a book by its cover. Between the fine barrels produced by the cooper, garnering great demand in the wine-rich region, and the finely detailed pieces turned out by the man's wife, the couple earned a great deal of coin.

In flatly refusing to entertain the guild's kind offer of protection, the couple had earned a place in this night's example for others so foolish as to do business without tithing blood money to the guild of thieves. Throughout town, others on the dodgy path stalked the night, the well-bribed town guardsmen busy investigating important matters far from the marked homes and businesses.

Halban shook his head and chuckled at the simple lock, which he defeated in a matter of seconds with a practiced hand and the right tools. The door opened soundlessly, and closed the same way a moment later. Searching the storefront and work areas with experienced efficiency, the thief determined -- as he already suspected -- that nothing of value was kept here. Creeping behind the counter, he picked the equally simple lock and moved into the couple's living quarters beyond.

It took even less time to determine that nothing of real value lay within the kitchen, common room, bath, or storage rooms. As Halban had assumed all along, the couple kept their coin in their bedchamber, the only remaining room in the home. Drawing his dagger, he moved back down the hall toward the bedroom door. A smile crept across his lips as he anticipated thrusting his dagger into the man, and thrusting something far more pleasurable into the beautiful young brunette.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Carolyn awakened, silently cursing herself for drinking so much wine after dinner. Her bladder felt fit to burst as she slipped out of the bed toward the chamber pot, doing her best not to awaken her husband.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 08



After relieving the painful pressure, she crept on tiptoe back toward the bed, freezing in place and holding her breath when she heard something in the house. Her mind raced, recognizing the sound as that of a squeaky board between the kitchen and the bedroom.

Her heart racing, Carolyn shook her husband, putting her hand over his mouth when his eyes opened and leaning down to whisper in his ear. "Someone is in the house."

Shaking his head in protest, he would have protested, save for the squeaking of a second board, this one only a foot or two from the bedroom. He recognized the sound as easily as his wife had, and pushed the covers from his body as quietly as possible. When the sound of metal clinking together met his ears, the sounds of the thief's picks in the bedroom lock, he leapt from the bed and shoved a heavy wardrobe in front of the door with a feat of adrenaline-fueled strength.

When the door started to open despite the obstruction, Kyle braced it with his body as well. His feet scrambled for purchase as the intruder on the other side persistently sought to enter the bedroom.

Panicking, Carolyn jerked open the top drawer of the bedside table, rummaging through the objects within until she found what she sought. Picking up the small charm, she snapped it in half as Danica had instructed.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica awakened with a gasp, feeling something she'd never hoped to feel -- one of the charms she'd given friends for them to use when in danger. The sound and her movement awakened Ashley, who yawned and sleepily asked, "What's wrong?"

"A friend of mine is in danger," Danica quickly gasped out, searching for her robe. "I have to help her -- now."

Picking up Danica's robe and handing it to her, Ashley grabbed her chemise as well and said, "I'll come with you."

Danica nodded, hastily tying her robe around her. The robe gapped to reveal her body above and below the belt, but Danica completely ignored modesty. Ashley shrugged her shoulders to allow her chemise to fall into place and reached for Danica's hand.

Using the clarion call of her charm as a beacon, Danica cast her spell and teleported to the aid of her friend.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Kyle cried out as the dagger slipping through the partially opened door nicked his arm. The flash of pain distracted him just long enough for the thief to slam the door a final time and burst into the room, knocking Kyle off balance.

Carolyn screamed as Kyle stumbled, striking his head on the wardrobe and collapsing into a heap on the floor. Glancing at the man on the floor, Halban smiled and turned back toward the frightened woman on the bed. Although the guardsmen were otherwise occupied and no other people lived nearby, he thought it wise to silence the woman before dispatching her husband.

The flash of light startled him, causing him to drop into a defensive crouch. What appeared within that flash of light, two scantily clad women, distracted him for a second more.

It was one second too long.

Ashley froze him in time with her power in the same instant that Danica lashed out with her telekinetic abilities, lifting the thief off the ground and sending him hurtling toward the wall. One moment, Haldar was staring at the two women, the next, his consciousness faded as his back collided with the wall and his head smacked into the ceiling.

The thief's dagger fell to the floor with a clatter, his body falling with a thud right behind it. Ashley again froze him with her powers.

"Danica -- t-thank the gods," Carolyn sobbed.

Kyle stirred and groaned, attempting to rise. Danica and Carolyn both simultaneously asked, "Are you okay, Kyle?"

Kyle groggily responded, "Carolyn? Are you... What -- Danica?"

"Relax, Kyle, you took a nasty bump on the head." Danica then turned to Ashley and said, "Unfreeze him."

Ashley nodded and released her power. The thief remained unconscious upon the floor. Danica crossed the room and knelt to put her hand on the man's forehead. His unconscious mind was unable to resist her mental powers for even a fraction of a second. She quickly sifted through his mind, not at all liking what she discovered.

Slipping back out of the thief's mind, Danica cursed and said, "The thieves are attacking several people's shops. Everything is happening right now. We need to do something." Her mind racing, Danica did the only thing she could readily think of to eliminate the threat of the thief on Carolyn's floor. She cast the Hellgate, and immediately levitated the thief inside. Concentrating, she then caused the gate to shrink down to the size of an apple, and commanded it to hover at her shoulder.

"Ashley, do you think you can summon up that power again? There's no way we can get to all the places that I saw in his head in time."

"I can try," Ashley responded, closing her eyes and thinking about her orgasm on Danica's toy, searching for the new power she'd summoned up as she climaxed.

It worked, Ashley heard Danica say in the echoing tones caused by slipping between the seconds. Opening her eyes, the witch saw the couple who owned the home frozen in place, and everything appeared muted, just as before.

"Follow me," Danica said, trying to open the door, but finding it immovable. At her shoulder, she saw the shrunken Hellgate still crackling with power. "Never mind. We'll use the Hellgate and jump every time we encounter a barrier of some sort. You'll have to take us out of this weird no-time every time we reach a thief. As soon as we're back in real time, freeze him, and I'll shove him in the Hellgate. There are six of them, counting this one."

Ashley nodded her understanding and followed Danica into the Hellgate. Danica changed the focus of the portal, moving it through the house, out the door, and down the street. She followed the memories of the thief, finding another of the houses targeted in the concerted raid.

Moving through the house, she located the bedroom and found the intruder approaching the door. Opening the portal, Danica stepped out with Ashley right behind her. "Try to get us back in no-time as quickly as possible. We may only have seconds to save lives. They're intent upon murder and rape as part of their example to others to pay their blood money."

"I understand. It was a lot easier when I did it this last time."

"Now," Danica signaled.

Ashley released them both from no-time, and then immediately froze the thief before he could move a muscle. Danica grabbed the man with her telekinetic powers and hurled him into the Hellgate. As soon as the thief passed through the portal, Ashley concentrated and returned them to the spaces between the seconds.

"Perfect," Danica said with a smile. "Let's go find the next one."

Both women stepped through the portal, and Danica called out to the demons within the realm. "Get out here and keep these lousy cutpurses from going anywhere. I want them alive, and unharmed by any of you. If any of them get near the portal when I'm opening it, I'm not going to be amused. Do you imps understand?"

The inhabitants of Danica's little pocket realm crept out, acknowledging her order and moving to stand around the two thieves. Danica nodded her head in approval, and then turned back to the portal to change the focus once more.

Danica managed to find the next three thieves before they could reach their marks as well. Unfortunately, the precious seconds necessary to remove the thieves from the other homes allowed the final thief the necessary time to reach his victims.

Danica emerged from the portal with a curse, seeing a man lying on the ground clutching a belly wound, and the thief in the process of mounting the dying man's wife. "We're going to have to get Andrea to heal him. I'm not about to lose anyone after coming this close."

"I agree. Let's go wake her up."

"Same thing as with the thieves -- pull us out of no-time just long enough to get Andrea in the portal. She'll be a little shaken up, but I'll apologize afterwards."

Danica stepped back into the portal and shifted the focus to Andrea's room, right next to the blonde witch's bed. When she opened the portal, Danica didn't even step out. She just said, "Now."

As soon as Ashley released her power, Danica pulled Andrea -- bed coverings and all -- into the portal. Andrea didn't even realize she was out of her bed until she was already within the portal, and Danica once again shifted the focus back to the location of the last thief.

"What..." Andrea began.

"I'll explain it all later. Ashley is using a new power, that's why the world looks weird. As soon as we get where we're going, she's going to stop. Someone is badly hurt, and we need you to heal them. The two of us will take care of everything else," Danica explained as she locked in the focus of the portal.

She breathed a sigh of relief when she saw the man on the floor appeared much the same as before, and the thief had not yet managed to penetrate the woman on the bed. "Wait until Andrea is right next to him before you take us out of no-time, Ashley. Here we go."

The three barely dressed women stepped from the portal and took up their positions. As soon as Ashley released her power, she froze the thief and Danica hurled the foul man through the Hellgate. Andrea whispered a prayer to the Earth Mother, her touch immediately pouring healing energy into the nearly dead man on the floor.

Danica chanted the words of a cantrip, unraveling the ropes binding the woman on the bed. The woman immediately sat up, tearing the gag out of her mouth and crying out, "Fardel!"

"M-marielle?"

Danica turned to see Andrea smiling, the bloody, gaping hole in the man's nightshirt revealing smooth skin beyond. The young man sat up, looking very confused, turning immediately toward his wife's voice.

The young woman immediately scrambled off the bed and fell to her knees next to her husband, taking him in her arms.

Danica gestured to Andrea, smiling as she watched the couple embrace each other. Andrea nodded, walking over to where her two friends waited next to the portal.

"Who...?" The young man started to ask, trying to peer through the gloom and the glare of the portal to see the three women in front of it.

"The man that attacked you won't get a second chance. You weren't the only targets tonight, and I'm going to get to the bottom of it all."

"Thank you," the young woman sobbed, wrapping her arms even tighter around her husband. "Thank you all."

"You're welcome," Danica said as she stepped into the portal, Andrea and Ashley right behind her.

Closing the portal, Danica turned to the captured thieves. All remained frozen by Ashley's power. "How long will they stay like that?"

Ashley replied, "It depends. Some people can shake it off in seconds, and some will stay frozen for hours."

Danica pursed her lips and sighed. "I don't know if I trust the imps in here to behave themselves, and I want to see what more I can find out from these scum. I'll take the two of you home if you want. There's no sense in all of us losing any more sleep."

"I'm awake now," Andrea responded with a shrug.

"I'll stay too," Ashley agreed.

"Time to find out everything these filthy murderers know, then." Danica stepped over to the thieves, bringing her mental powers to bear.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Kneeling before Meckataur, Rexxus finished his proposal. "My Lord and Evil Master, this course will provide us with the means to increase our power without rousing the forces arrayed against us. Allow me to choose those who will blend in with the populace, as do your spawn."

"I have breached the void. What more power do I need?" Meckataur rumbled.

"My Master, you have seen the power of the witches. Others join in triumvirates and conclaves, increasing their power. We must strike these threats with stealth. The demons you control cannot yet resist the power of such witches."

After a long, rumbling growl, Meckataur responded, "Do as you wish."

Rexxus smiled, his human face split by the impossibly wide, tooth-filled grin. "You will be pleased with the results, My Master."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica let out a growl as she tore away from her mental contact with the final thief. "Every guardsman on duty tonight was bribed. One of these bastards overheard a higher-ranking scumbag talking to someone. He didn't hear much, but it was more than enough to prove this isn't localized."

"What do you want to do?" Andrea asked.

"I'm going to check out the guardsmen's superiors, to see if they can be trusted. If they're straight, I'm going to turn in the lot of those corrupt bastards. If not, I'll get word to the capital. I'm sure that Thakkor and Alicia won't be amused by this. Same for these thieves, except I'll drop them on Mindblind. The city is on the fringes of his Duchy, and he's going to want to know what's going on. Other than that, I don't have any way of discovering where anything else is happening."

Andrea nodded, and then immediately yawned. Ashley yawned almost before Andrea's mouth closed.

Danica managed to fight down her own urge to yawn. "I want to use my gift to protect Kyle and Carolyn anyway, so I'll take the two of you back home when I do that. I can handle this alone, as long as you can do without me at breakfast in the morning?"

Andrea answered, "It's a little hard to argue. I can barely keep my eyes open now that the excitement has worn off."

Ashley asked, "If you're sure you don't need any help?"

"Directing the Hellgate takes almost no effort, and most of what I need to do will involve using my mental powers. I promise that I'll come home if I'm just too tired," Danica responded.

Another round of yawns preceded the two witch's agreement. Returning to Carolyn's home, Danica coaxed the couple into the Hellgate and took them to the valley. There, she used her gift to shroud the couple in the concealing mists.

Though the three wanted to catch up, Danica knew time was of the essence. She promised to keep in touch, giving the couple one of her bowls that allowed them to send letters back and forth magically. She also gave Carolyn a copy of the same pattern Heather would etch onto her bottles, asking Carolyn to work the pattern into anything she made for anyone suspicious.

After a reluctant farewell, Danica returned the couple to their home and proceeded immediately to the jail. Only the briefest mental scan revealed that the officer on duty knew nothing about this night's foul play, as well as a deep sense of purpose and honor. Satisfied that she could trust the man to do the right thing, she hastily scrawled a note. She explained the betrayal of the guardsmen, the businesses targeted by the thieves, and noted that the Duke should be immediately informed of what had happened here this night.

Focusing the Hellgate on the street outside the jail, Danica smiled when she saw a beggar boy creeping through the shadows. Though filthy and dressed in rags, Danica could tell by his demeanor and the way he glanced toward the targeted houses that he worked for the guild of thieves.

When one of the targeted couples emerged from their home down the street, the beggar boy started and immediately moved into the shadows. Danica quickly opened the portal, depositing the thieves on the doorstep of the jail. She loudly knocked on the door with her telekinetic powers, depositing the note atop the thieves at the same time.

Closing the portal, but maintaining its ability to scry upon the world outside, Danica followed the retreating beggar boy. That's it -- lead me right back to your rat's den.

As word passed from contact to contact, Danica followed the various thieves until one contacted someone she assumed was the guildmaster. The man paled upon hearing the news, immediately sending the other thief away and slamming the door.

Danica used the power of the Hellgate to follow the leader of the theives, who entered a room hidden by a secret door within his home. Danica clenched her teeth in anger when she saw the mirror in the room. The device was all too familiar to her, the design originating in Zoraster's complex.

After a minute or two of hesitation, the thief at last activated the mirror. Danica's mouth dropped open when she saw the face on the other side. Though older, the face of the rude young apprentice she'd taught a lesson to beside the pool on Zoraster's grounds was unmistakable.

Scanning the guildmaster's thoughts, Danica let out a growl of frustration when she discovered that he knew little beyond the orders given to him through the mirror. She couldn't scan the wizard's mind, and so couldn't learn any more.

Exhaustion tightened its grip on her, and Danica knew she wouldn't be able to properly direct her powers soon. She also didn't trust her ability to resist the demons in the Hellgate in her deteriorating state of mind.

Whichever one of your blackhearts has taken over just made this personal, Zoraster. I'll tear down every one of your schemes with my bare hands, if I have to, Danica thought.

One thing did give her a sense of relief. Carolyn and Kyle had not been targeted because they knew her. With her gift now protecting them as well, Danica felt far better about their safety. Once she informed the nobles of the Kingdom about what she'd discovered, it would be unlikely that something like this would happen again anywhere within Egoria any time soon.

Shifting the portal back to her room in the Manor, Danica opened it and wearily stepped out. Closing the Hellgate, she dropped her robe and slipped into the bed next to Ashley. Exhaustion soon claimed her, it and Ashley's arms wrapping around her overwhelming the rush of thoughts about how to deal with this night's revelations.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

I hope you're enjoying Book II in Danica's trilogy. Please take a moment to vote/comment, because that's how you toss your symbolic coin into my hat. Individual chapter votes can tell me a lot, so do vote on every chapter if you wish.

Apologies for the delay. I'm struggling with my muse again. Those of you who were with me at the end of Danica know how it is. The story will come out, because I'm dedicated to that. I promise that I'll get new chapters out as quickly as possible.

Big thanks to Roust Writer for his editing. I don't know how I got along without his keen eye, quick wit, and insight.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 09



Author's Notes: 

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission.

© Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

With breakfast finished and the girls washing dishes, Danica returned to the lab to add to her work on the model for Ashley's cottage. She knew that as soon as the girls finished with the washing that they would track her down to work on their toys. The first two clay phalluses had fired perfectly, and now sat on a shelf awaiting glazing. Danica had decided to let the girls each glaze their own toys, thinking that the unique touches would make the items more personal for the girls.

The cottages weren't nearly as sophisticated as the manor, and so Danica was almost done with Ashley's after only working on the model for about half a day. Both Edna and Ashley's cottages would have a magical tub and chamber pot identical to those in the manor, offering comfort without the need for maintenance. The storage spaces would also contain magical enhancements based upon the bag of holding, which allowed them to hold far more than physically possible.

Once combined with the individual furnishings and choices Celes had asked the two women to outline, the cottages would be comfortable, functional homes for both Ashley and Edna.

Glancing up to rest her eyes, Danica saw Ashley walk into the lab. Smiling at the red-haired witch, Danica said, "Yours is almost done. I should be able to finish Edna's soon as well. I want to make sure that both of you are comfortable, because I'm not sure how long it's going to last."

"You'll have whatever help you need from me in your battles. It's the least I can do to thank you for what you've done for me. If you're right, we're helping each other no matter which set of problems we attack." Walking over to the table where she'd been working of late, Ashley peeked down into her cauldron and said, "I may have the means right here to track down any demon that Meckataur commands, if the spell worked."

Putting down her tools, Danica stood and walked over to Ashley's chosen work area. "How do they work?" She asked, looking at the earth-colored little beads in the bottom of the pot.

Pulling out one of the beads, Ashley explained, "It's a little like scrying, except it's instantaneous and more or less untraceable. It happens so quickly that even if a demon notices it, they can't possibly track it back to the source. These can tell you the numbers, strength, and location of demons on a map at the moment they're used.

"Why don't we test them and my theories at the same time, then? I'll go find everyone, and we'll try them out on the area around Zoraster's complex."

"That will only tell us if Meckataur's demons are nearby -- not whether they're working together."

Danica shrugged her shoulders and said, "You never know. There may be clues that can tell us more, based upon where the demons are. I'll gather everyone up." Walking over to a shelf, she retrieved a map and handed it to Ashley. "I'll be right back."

A few minutes later, Danica returned with Andrea, Celes, and Marlena. Edna had chosen to remain with the girls to help reduce the damage to the dishes. With the map unrolled in front of her and ready, Ashley said, "Here goes," as soon as everyone reached the table.

Ashley tossed the pebble down at the map, creating a shower of deep purple sparks that cascaded upward in a fountain. When the sparkles settled back to the map, they coalesced into glowing points of red light.

Danica pointed at the largest, brightest spot on the map. "That's Zoraster's complex."

"And a very powerful demon," Ashley advised. "That is either a dangerous greater demon, a Devil that Meckataur has somehow subverted, or one of his spawn."

"There's no way that a demon could get into Zoraster's complex without someone knowing about it. They have to be working together," Celes declared.

"The rest of these dots are minor demons," Ashley said, as she looked at the dozen or so other points of light on the map.

"Three of those are in Montbank. I agree with Celes, they're working together. Even if they aren't, then they're using each other in some way and may as well be allied," Danica declared.

"So now we can track down the demons. What were you up to with those patterns, Danica?" Celes asked.

"The rune wands I gave Carolyn and Heather will let me find anything with that pattern on it instantly," Danica explained. "I told them to put the pattern on anything they made for someone who seemed suspicious. It's just a start, but I think we're going to have to mimic part of the way Zoraster operates. We need eyes everywhere."

"It all seems so hopeless," Marlena said with a sigh. "Zoraster, Meckataur, his spawn, the rift to the hells, armies preparing for war..."

"We do what we can," Danica said and smiled. She then twitched her eyebrows and said, "We've been in hopeless situations before. We're still here, so we must be doing something right."

"And we're all a damn sight stronger now than we were then, too," Celes added.

Hearing the sound of the girls approaching the lab, Danica chuckled and said, "For now, I think I know what I need to do, if we ever want any peace." Putting aside her model, she picked up the satchels of clay beneath the table as the girls filed into the lab.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Having wrung every ounce of information and exquisite agony possible from the woman, Thanatos at last unleashed his deadly touch. The witch died almost soundlessly, only a sigh caused by her last, shallow breath escaping her broke the silence.

An unearthly growl of triumph rumbled from within Thanatos as the demon felt the witch's powers swell within him. Though minor powers suited only for stealth and trickery, the abilities would serve him well.

The woman revealed tantalizing hints of what Ebonar truly sought, as well as the source of power that had allowed the witch's Master to break free of Meckataur's control. Already attuned to magic from birth, Thanatos knew that there was no need to report his discoveries to Ebonar. The man's magic in the room served that purpose well.

His Sire, however, was an entirely different matter. As if a subtle flavoring, Thanatos could feel intriguing touches of something in the witch's power -- something significant. Meckataur would certainly demand to taste this power, and Thanatos was far from foolish enough to risk his Sire's ire -- for now.

In a crackle of flame, Thanatos vanished from the cell.

Even as the flames died down, a flash of light revealed Ebonar in the demon's place. In the space of a single heartbeat, both Ebonar and the corpse of the witch vanished from the cell.

Upon appearing in his inner sanctum, Ebonar called up his powers, causing the woman's corpse to rise from the floor. Directing the magic, Ebonar caused the woman's limp body to float toward a sphere of magical energy housing a spot of black.

As the corpse neared the sphere, Ebonar let out a sigh of knowing satisfaction. His plan to force the woman into the Devil's hands now bore fruit. Within the sphere, the jet-black chip of skull-shaped stone vibrated violently -- the energy growing stronger as the witch's corpse moved closer.

The ebon skull only reacted so to a very specific sort of power, the same power housed within Godsbane.

As he and his Master suspected, the Devil Tanarax had a connection with the power that Zoraster sought.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Edna stepped into the lab and announced, "Supper is ready. Wash up and come along, girls."

The clones erupted in a chorus of, "Yes, Gran," reluctantly leaving their work to prepare for supper.

Danica sat back in her chair with a sigh. "Four more. Only five to go. It's nice to have the extra help so that we don't all have to spend half the day in the kitchen like we used to."

Edna walked over to the table, examining the clay cocks there with an amused grin. "Give them a little more time and we can put them to work in the kitchen. Considering how your six seem to share most of your talents, they'll likely have your cooking skills as well, once taught."

Danica laughed, memories of her mother coming back to her. "Mom used to joke about that being the main reason to have children -- to do all the work."

Edna shook her head and chuckled. "Come along, now. You need to wash up and come to supper too."

"Yes, Gran," Danica responded with a wink as she stood up from her chair.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"I haven't heard the sound of a single dish breaking," Andrea remarked as she sat with her friends at the table after supper.

"Well, damn me -- you're right," Celes remarked with an amused snort. "If this keeps up, we'll be able to devote more time to our studies, and the work certainly seems to be doing them good." Tapping the table with her hand, she said, "Ashley thinks we should try to capture one of the minor demons," continuing the conversation Andrea had interrupted with her observance.

"We might be able to learn more about the rift, Meckataur, and the more powerful demons if we poke one enough," Ashley clarified.

"It sounds like a good idea to me," Danica agreed. "I haven't studied rifts much, but I know that a wide-open doorway to hell can't be a good thing."

"So we're off on a hunt tomorrow," Celes said with a wicked grin.

"Do you think your sister might be willing to teach me some of her original spells?" Marlena asked Danica. "The ones you've talked about are fascinating, and I think they might work with some ideas I have."

Danica smiled and said, "I'm sure she will." Her brow furrowed a second later as she considered the need to take Marlena to Devan's tower. "Hmm, I think I need to add some teleportation items to my list of things to make. I need to spend a few days with my bottom in a chair if I'm ever going to catch up."

Ashley tapped her finger on the table a few times and then said, "We still need to come up with a spell to contain a demon. Our books mostly deal with finding and destroying them. That will take a few days."

"I'll take Marlena to see Devan," Celes offered. "Just tell her that we're coming and teach me her pattern."

"And I'll chain myself to my table in the lab," Danica chuckled.

Edna walked back in from checking on the girls and said, "Soon, I should imagine. The girls are nearly done with the dishes."

"We all have work to do then, because Devan is going to want to see your original spells, too," Danica said to Marlena as she stood. "If anyone has remedies for aching eyes, fingers, and a sore bottom, be sure to let me know."

Celes leaned over to look at Danica's backside with a twitch of her eyebrows and a crooked grin.

Before Celes could say anything, Danica cut her off with a laugh and said, "Behave."

Shortly thereafter, the girls emerged to sweep Danica into the lab with a chorus of giggles.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Though only a few structures were complete, Zoraster could already feel the power of the invisible rune tattoos on his flesh. Once covered in runes of protection and power, his body would be a living weapon -- as Danica had well evidenced.

Watching in his magic mirror, the Archmage admitted a rare feeling of surprise. The goblin dupe provided by his agent proved to very much have the ear of the goblin king. The cunning goblin, a rarity for the breed, whispered dreams of power into the ear of the equally cunning king. The first to reach the upper levels of goblin hierarchy in many years with such intelligence and ambition, he was easily influenced to seek the reclamation of his race's golden age.

Zoraster himself had participated in the battles to purge Normandal of the goblins that had overrun the castles and towns of the small nation some years before. For a few years, the goblin race had garnered more respect than any time in recorded history, repelling every assault upon their captured homeland with ferocious efficiency.

Led by Thakkor's formidable band, the hastily assembled army of Normandic patriots had managed to do what strike forces from both Egoria and Freeland had been unable to accomplish, striking to the heart of the goblin hordes through stealth and skill. Surgical strikes at the goblin leadership, culminating in the death of the then goblin king, caused the tribes to war with each other, allowing the citizen army to sweep the monsters from the borders.

A similar assault could likewise work against the humans now holding those lands, if Normandal was forced to stand alone.

Zoraster knew that so long as Thakkorias ruled Egoria and drew breath, Normandal would not stand alone against the goblin host.

"Run to the rescue, noble Thakkorias. That which is your greatest strength is also your greatest weakness." 

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Andrea waited outside as the girls followed Edna to their wing of the manor. Considering how excited the clones appeared, Andrea doubted that the older witch would have an easy time putting the girls to bed tonight. A sigh and a roll of Edna's eyes as the woman passed brought a smile to Andrea's lips, and revealed that Edna was hardly unaware of the girls' condition.

Finally able to get through, Andrea walked over to Danica at her worktable. Danica sat slumped back in her chair, tired but obviously satisfied.

"Done -- believe it or not," Danica announced as her blonde friend approached. "The girls helped a lot. I'm going to let them each glaze their own however they want to. They shouldn't be able to mix them up then."

Eyeing the large toy designed for Damika with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension, Andrea said, "I don't think that one is going to be difficult to pick out."

"Tempting and frightening at the same time, isn't it?" Danica asked, while running her finger along the flared tip of the toy cock.

Andrea shivered and hugged her arms around her. "More frightening than tempting, but yes." After a moment, she asked, "Do you feel odd?"

Danica shrugged her shoulders and then stood to pick up the large toy. As she transported the clay cock to the kiln, she answered, "Tired -- but I don't feel anything unusual."

"I feel nervous -- anxious. It's a little like when we met Alicia and the others on Darkni's island the first time. It feels like something important is happening."

Returning for two more of the newly completed toys, Danica noticed a glint of light from the medallion around Andrea's neck. After watching for a breath, she saw a similar wink of light. "Your amulet is glowing a little. Does that mean anything that you know of?"

Andrea looked down and noticed a sparkle of light, just as Danica had. After a bit of contemplation, she said, "It does feel a little like someone else's anxiety, and the feeling is stronger when I look at my amulet."

Danica picked up the two toys from the table and said, "I hope that's just a coincidence. I don't even want to consider that the gods are feeling anxious, and that you're feeling it coming from the Earth Mother through your amulet."

Andrea nodded her head in agreement and picked up the other two finished toys. "I hope so too. I'll help you put these in the kiln."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Floating in the central pool of her realm, Gaeaye indeed felt anxious. Nestled in the heart of her power, she leant her strength to that of the other gods of light. Left unchecked, the rift to the hells would only widen. The dark gods sensed the threat, but as many sought to exploit the results as to prevent them. Thus, with the quiet aid of the Mistress of the elves, the gods of light turned their power to a momentous task.

The Devil resisted with frightening strength, resulting in the anxiety of the gods. The power of the hells worked through Meckataur, granting the Devil unholy strength that would have torn any normal being apart.

Gaeaye felt a surge of strength, and instantly recognized the source. Elves throughout the world offered dual prayers to their Mistress and the Earth Mother, granting them both strength. Peoples of the plains sensed the wrongness in the world and sent their prayers heavenward as well.

The infusion of strength, both small and profound at the same time, lifted the Earth Mother's spirits, and her very body. Rising up from the water, she hovered with only her toes touching the surface and rivulets of water cascading down her nude form. The wind kissed her, whipping her wealth of dark hair like a banner in a spring breeze. In her surge of hope, the other gods found similar strength.

One instant, the hells held firm, and in the next, the damage was contained. Gaeaye sank back into the water of her pool, knowing that the danger was past -- for now.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Meckataur's roar of frustration caused rockslides in the underworld for dozens of miles around Nightmare castle. The pounding of the Devil's fists upon the stone left a spider web of cracks surrounding the deep indent upon the surface of the floor.

Gathering his strength, the Devil rose to his massive legs once more. The rift stood open still, but weakened. Though angry beyond mortal measure, Meckataur took twisted solace in knowing that the next such attempt would prove far more difficult for those arrayed against him. Already, the strands of power closing much of the wound in reality weakened. Soon, those threads would fray.

In the meantime, power and demons would continue to come to his call. Even as he grew stronger, so would the rift grow stronger upon the anchor of his being.

In time, even the gods would be powerless to stop him.

"Sire," Thanatos said to announce his presence.

Meckataur turned upon his spawn, sensing something new coursing through the core of Thanatos' powers. Thrusting his power into the smaller Devil, Meckataur tasted the same faint, unique flavoring. Unlike Thanatos, the greater Devil recognized the source of that power. "You have done well. Speak," Meckataur commanded, drool dripping from the hellspawn's fangs in anticipation.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****} 

Danica looked up from her work to shake her head and quietly chuckle. All around her, the girls happily worked to glaze their toys, eagerly anticipating the magic that would bring them to life. The color schemes ranged from the realistic to the rainbow-colored.

With the girls busy, Danica had plenty of time to chat with Edna while she worked on the model that would become Ashley's cottage. The elder witch had pointedly told the three younger witches that they should work on their chosen endeavor together, without her guidance. I'll not be here to lead you around forever. The craft is within all of you. Let the magic speak to you, she'd said before sitting down to enjoy a long chat with Danica.

Much of the conversation between Danica and Edna took place silently, both women so comfortable with their mental powers that it took less energy and concentration to speak that way than to actually form the words. Edna reminded Danica much of her mother, which lightened her spirits. Once, such a reminder would have proved painful, but after seeing her mother and knowing that all was well, Danica was glad for the nostalgia in Edna's manner.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 09



"If it wouldn't put more work on your shoulders, I'd ask you to make all the charms before Ashley, Celes, or Andrea blesses them with their powers. You do such beautiful work with so little effort," Edna remarked as Danica rolled her neck in a circle to relieve a tight knot at the back of her head.

"I'm almost done with Ashley's. I just need to put in a couple more touches, and it will be ready to enchant. I'll start on yours then."

"It will be nice to have a place to call my own again, but there's no rush. The couch is as comfortable as it was the day I first arrived."

Melanie -- the younger looking clone of Marlena -- approached with her toy to announce, "I'm finished."

Danica looked the toy over for a second, seeing that the redheaded clone had chosen a realistic appearance with a few embellishments here and there. "It looks beautiful. Just put it on one of the shelves in the kiln. As soon as all of you finish, I'll fire the kiln. Do you want to help your sisters?"

"I think I'll go take a nap," Melanie replied with a little color rising in her cheeks.

Danica felt the desire that accompanied that blush, fueled by anticipation for the clay cock the clone still held in her hands. Melanie might indeed take a nap, but she had other business to attend to first.

"That's fine, Melanie. You just call if you need anything. I'll be right here with Danica and your sisters," Edna responded, letting the slightly ashamed young woman know that she wouldn't arrive unexpectedly in the other wing of the manor.

Melanie nodded, and then hurried off toward her room.

"Back to work. I'm so close to finished now that I'm anticipating working my magic on this," Danica said, and then mentally added, Not nearly as eager as the girls are, though. Their anticipation is so strong that I don't think I'd need my powers to notice it.

True that, Edna responded in a mental chuckle.

Danica slid open a drawer in her worktable, and then another. After opening a few more drawers, she wrinkled her nose and said. "I'm out of balsa. I thought I had enough to complete both cottages and still have extra."

"I can go fetch it from wherever you have it stored," Edna offered.

Danica shrugged her shoulders and said, "That's the problem. All that I had was here. I'll have to go somewhere and buy some, or find it myself." Remembering a shop she'd once visited on a recommendation, she knew exactly where she would go to purchase what she needed.

The recollection of the shop also brought with it other memories. Although she'd spent little time with him during the last years of her enslavement to Zoraster, Danica couldn't help but fondly remember Damian. It was his guidance and encouragement that helped her release her ability to craft magic items. When one of the female servants had stolen his heart, Danica had reluctantly distanced herself from him. The older woman had felt threatened by Danica, which bothered both mentor and prize pupil.

"I know exactly where to go to get some. I might just be able to find out what an old friend is up to while I'm at it, as well," Danica announced with a smile.

"Go on, then. The girls are doing fine on their own, and I'm sure you'll be back in plenty of time to start the kiln before they grow impatient," Edna said with a wave of her hand.

"I'll hurry back. I'm going to go change into something that won't attract as much attention as my robe."

Shortly thereafter, dressed in a pretty but unremarkable dress, Danica teleported near the town where she wanted to shop. She had good reason to remain somewhat inconspicuous, because the shop was in Ferrartene, the heart of Zoraster's power. Although a border town far from his seat of power, she had little doubt that his grip was firm on the little hamlet.

None saw her magical arrival, which she considered a good start to the trip. A short walk brought her to the outskirts of town, and she was soon lost in the bustle of the villagers going about their daily business. Even though her dress was far from the most flattering she owned, several thoughts from men passing by about how good she looked brought a smile to her face.

While the shop's primary source of income was from those who worked the Art, it also catered to any number of more common needs, and thus didn't carry any stigma as a place for wizards only. A pair of village women exited the building even as Danica entered. The women greeted her with warm smiles, which she returned as she entered the shop.

The balding shopkeeper leaned against his broom as Danica entered, asking, "What can I get for you today?"

"I need balsa wood. I was so wrapped up in what I was working on that I didn't realize I was out."

"I just had some arrive only this morning. Come into the back and you can choose what you need."

Danica had little trouble finding exactly the sort of pieces she needed, in quantities large enough to finish the models and maintain plenty for future work. "I'm glad Damian recommended you," she remarked as the shopkeeper helped her carry the wood to the front of the shop once more.

As he sat his burden down on the counter, the balding merchant asked, "Damian Silverstone?"

"Yes. He told me that you would have nearly anything that a wizard might want to use for making magic items -- or you could find it."

"Have you heard from Damian recently? I've not seen him for months, and he looked a bit out of sorts on his last visit."

Danica's brow furrowed, as she didn't like the sound of that. She had little feared for Damian's safety when she escaped Zoraster's compound, as she knew he possessed numerous artifacts that could protect him from nearly any form of attack. While any magical protection was finite, Danica had full confidence that the master craftsman would have more than enough time to escape to somewhere safe, if such was necessary. "I've not seen him in quite some time either. Maybe I should look in on him."

"Have him drop by here if you do. I've some things I'm sure he'll be interested in, and I miss his company," the shopkeep punctuated the last with a sigh. "Damian's visits are about all that encourages me to keep this place open."

Danica counted out her coin, paying far more than the wood was worth. Even spending lavishly, she'd barely made a dent in the vast fortune that she and Celes had stolen from Zoraster, which was in itself only a fraction of his horde. "I will. Please tell him that Danica would like to see him, if you see him first."

"This is far more..." The merchant started to protest, seeing how much coin Danica was pushing across the counter to him.

"Just accept it," Danica said with a wink. "The next time I come by, I might need something more exotic, and that will help you keep such things on hand without fraying your own purse."

"I thank you -- Danica, was it?"

"Yes, and thank you. I'll be sure to think of you when I need anything, and recommend you to anyone who asks," Danica promised as she fed the balsa into her bag of holding.

"I surely appreciate it. Good day, and come again."

Danica smiled and nodded as she exited the shop, but her expression tightened almost as soon as she passed over the threshold. Mindless of appearances, she walked at a brisk pace toward the edge of town where she could use her magic without anyone seeing her.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Damian completed the mass enchantment of the arrow-repelling rings with a sigh. The work was beneath him, uninteresting, and a sign of the truth he still struggled to accept. He worked his fingers through his salt-and-pepper hair, sighing again and shaking his head.

A touch on his shoulder caused him to turn and smile at Branene, the lovely woman who had shared his life and bed for the last few years. Though graying even as he was, she had a vitality and life that kept them both feeling young.

"Damian, don't put on appearances. Your smile is half-hearted. What's wrong?"

"It is this work. Though I endeavor to repay my host for the many boons of my time here, the work is tedious." Damian prayed that Branene would not detect the lie, as he had no desire to let her see the chains now binding him.

"I understand," she said with a smile, and then leaned down to kiss him on the cheek. "Lunch will be ready in just a few minutes. If you aren't washed up and at the table, I'll come chase you out of here with a switch."

"Yes, Dear," Damian said with a genuine laugh. Branene chuckled as she walked out of the room, letting her bottom sway to attract his eye.

Attract his eye it did, but his expression fell almost as soon as she passed out of sight. As he did several times daily, Damian pulled out the pendant around his neck to examine the enchantments upon it. Though a master of creating magic items, he could not decipher the dweomers around the cursed jewelry. Some were plain to his keen eye, but he knew that far more lurked beneath the surface of the enchanted device.

Slipping the hated chain back into his robe, Damian stood to join his lover and companion at the table.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica clenched her teeth and let out a despondent, "No," as she recognized the pendant around Damian's neck for what it was -- one of Zoraster's slave chains.

Her mind whirled as she tried to find a way to spirit Damian away without sounding hundreds of alarms within Zoraster's complex. Though she knew that scrying through the Hellgate was undetectable, opening it -- if she could even manage to do so -- within her old prison would surely alert all of the mad Archmage's associates.

The only thing that she knew for certain was that she refused to leave her old friend, lover, and mentor trapped in Zoraster's clutches. She had endured slavery in the complex for far too long to consider leaving anyone else to the twisted whims of the place's inhabitants.

She had little doubt that the chain around Damian's neck would prevent him from leaving the complex without permission. Considering his skills, she doubted that whoever had replaced Zoraster would send Damian out into the world to perform tasks. She realized that she needed to contact him so that he could stand ready to leave on a moment's notice with his lover.

Her psionic abilities would allow her to do so, but she knew that attempting to do so over long distances would weaken her. She still owned several apartments close to Montbank, but assumed that agents of Zoraster and his magic were surely waiting for her to foolishly venture into one of them. She continued to pay necessary taxes on all the residences to foster that possibility in the mind of Zoraster's replacement.

A smile crept across her face as she remembered a place within Montbank itself that could provide her with the perfect location. She couldn't teleport directly into the house, as the numerous magical protections would prevent that. Even as she puzzled over a way around that problem, something in the back of her mind caused her to shift the focus of the Hellgate to the house she thought of.

The rune structure over the door snapped into focus in her mind the moment the shimmering of the portal ended. A single missing rune in the center of the structure was a key that would allow a person who knew it to bypass the formidable defenses of the unassuming home.

Danica knew instantly what rune should fill the open space. The rune decorated the center of a table in the basement of the very house she was looking at. Closing the portal to the outside world, Danica sat on a stone surrounding the pool in her little pocket reality to weave together the strands of the plan forming in her mind.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The image of the rune in Danica's mind alerted its creator -- or rather the true expression of the quiet wizard that had once owned the home Danica observed.

Though Sekmamun, god of magic, had not understood the vision of the future he'd observed, he knew well enough the importance of such visions. Without hesitation, he had broken away a tiny sliver of his power, creating an avatar on the world of mortals. That avatar had purchased and warded the home within what was a small, poor town at the time. In the basement, the mortal wizard aspect of Sekmamun had created the rune table in preparation for one who would come many years in the future.

The benefactor of that vision and that work now considered the boon granted her once more. Though the meaning of the vision was still unclear, the god of magic could feel a rightness in the woman who had gained rune knowledge through his intervention.

A touch of another's mind then caught the attention of the god. A smile crept across the god's face as he considered that the new sensation was related to the first. Within her new home in Osiramun, Hathortari read his holy book and contemplated the beliefs within. The whispered song of his calling pulsed within her.

Sekmamun considered the freed slave who now moved slowly toward service as his priestess, and all the others that worked for the good of the world who were connected to Danica. From her spread strands of hope, a counter-balance to the darkness threatening to overshadow the world of mortals below. This, above all else, had convinced the god to agree to mend the schism between the gods and the Fey.

Leaving portions of his consciousness to observe Hathortari and Danica, the god allowed the rest of his mind to seek other matters of importance.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica looked out through the Hellgate portal, and beyond that the window of the empty room in the inn. Some distance down the street, she could see the home that was her true focus.

Taking a deep breath, Danica concentrated on the rune in her mind. She knew that she would have no time for mistakes once she passed through the portal. Zoraster's influence was so deeply entrenched within all of Montbank that she was sure that someone would know the instant she left her pocket reality and passed into the real world. She planned to return to the Hellgate before anyone could possibly find her.

When she felt prepared, Danica opened the portal and leaned through. She traced the rune in the air as quickly as possible, concentrating upon the sigil to prevent it from flaring into magical light. As soon as she completed the last whorl of the magical symbol, she spoke the name of the rune and pushed it toward the house down the street.

The rune streaked across the intervening space, invisible to any that could not see magic, and passing through obstacles such as the window as if they didn't exist. When the rune touched the pattern above the door of the house, the rune structure there flashed for a fraction of a second.

Danica immediately jerked her head back inside the Hellgate and closed the portal to the world outside, while maintaining her ability to see out into the world beyond. She wondered if she had overestimated Zoraster's minions for a minute or two, but then heard the door opening on the opposite side of the room.

Shifting the focus of the viewing portal, she saw a nondescript man look around the room, his expression betraying a touch of anxiety when he found no one inside. Danica smirked at him and stuck out her tongue, even though she knew that the man couldn't possibly see her.

Thinking, Let's see if this works, Danica attempted to shift the focus of the Hellgate's viewing portal to the basement of the house down the street. When she saw the familiar table, she let out a little exclamation of triumph. She was able to open the portal without triggering the magical defenses of the house, and didn't even feel the oppressive gloom of the dispell when she stepped into room.

Quickly closing her eyes, she sent her thoughts upstairs, seeking the owners of the home. As soon as she made contact, a sharp tingle shot through her sex and her nipples stiffened. The couple was having sex, and Danica had to press her hand over her mound as she broke away from the mental contact, to suppress the resulting need caused by the arousing thoughts from upstairs.

I don't think they'll be coming downstairs any time soon, she thought, and then sat down on the floor. Except for the table, and the shelves in the cold room, the basement was otherwise bare, offering no alternative to the cold stone beneath her.

Danica centered her mind and again let her thoughts reach out. Upon touching Damian's mind, she chose to wait for a precious minute, as he was about to leave the table. If possible, she wanted to make contact when he was not in view of his lover.

Damian's mood was resigned and depressed, overshadowing his thoughts as he walked into his lab to return to his work. Danica waited until he sat down and attempted to focus his mind on his work. Damian, don't speak aloud -- it's Danica.

"Da..." Damian began, and then clamped his mouth shut. D-danica?

Damian, there is so much I need to explain. You're wearing one of Zoraster's chains, so you probably know far more than you want to already. I want to help you escape.

Damian's mental voice grew stronger as he acclimated his thoughts to the strange form of communication. I will not endanger my Branene for my own gain. If I must endure this life for her sake, I will.

I can get you both out of there in the blink of an eye. I can take you somewhere where Zoraster's people can't possibly reach you. Zoraster didn't even push his luck with Darkniciad, and I doubt that whoever replaced him is any more foolish.

Darkniciad? Damian asked with both surprise and awe in his mental voice. Darkni the Enchanter?

Yes. She sent along the mental equivalent of a smile before continuing, I think that the two of you would get along pretty well.

What do I need to do?

Are there any wards preventing teleportation in your lab?

No, that would be impossible. Those wards would interfere with some of the work Ebonar has ordered me to undertake. I fear that I may be struck down by the black Art within this chain if I were to attempt to do so, however.

Remembering the old guardian's words upon gifting her with the pearls that she had used to free Marlena and Andrea, Danica knew that Damian was one of those she was supposed to free. That won't be a problem, either. Trust me, Damian. Do you still have your satchel of hasty departure?

Yes, and all of Branene's things are now linked to it as well.

Good, you won't have to leave anything behind. How long will you need to prepare the satchel? Don't use it until I arrive, but have it and Branene close at hand.

Danica could hear the workings of Damian's mind, and knew the answer almost before he could send his thoughts back to her. Perhaps a half an hour. Branene will be suspicious if I ask her to come into the lab before she finishes the dishes.

I'll contact you this way again in half an hour then. If you're ready, I'll come get you and take you both to Darkniciad's isle. Remembering two others from her time of enslavement, Danica asked, Do you know Olaf and Amphros, who work in the tradesman's longhouses?

Yes, Damian responded, Both left shortly after Zoraster's demise.

Good, I was worried about them too. Get ready, because I don't want to worry about you any more.

I will, Danica. Thank you.

Danica broke off contact, finding the wait almost unbearable.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Damian, you are anxious. What is wrong? Please don't hide your feelings from me," Branene said with a touch of both concern and irritation.

With the satchel of hasty departure sitting at his side, Damian struggled to maintain an appearance of working, while at the same time keeping his love nearby. "I am anxious, my love. I trust that the source of my unease is near an end, however. Trust in me, Branene."

Leaning down to kiss his neck, Branene said, "You sound more excited than uneasy. Do you have a surprise for me that you're hiding?"




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 09



Damian?

Hearing the sound of Danica's voice in his mind, Damian quickly answered, We're ready. He then stood and said to Branene, "After a fashion, and I'm not so sure you will welcome it at first. Please trust me."

"Damian, you're scaring..." Branene broke off and cried out as the magical portal winked into existence only a foot or so away.

Danica held out the pure white pearl of power, "I'm almost positive that this won't work inside the Hellgate, so we need to do it now. Pull out Zoraster's chain, and both of you get between me and the Hellgate.

Scowling at Danica, Branene asked, "Damian, what is this?"

"Please, my dear, we are in danger," Damian replied, guiding her to the position Danica had indicated while he pulled the pendant around his neck free of his robe. As soon as the amulet appeared, Danica stepped toward him and he grasped his satchel of hasty departure.

Danica touched the pearl to Damian's amulet even as a whirlwind of the couple's possessions streaked from throughout the apartment into his magical satchel. Hearing the click of the pendant's clasp, Danica quickly removed the slave chain from her old mentor's neck. Danica closed her fingers around the pendant even as the satchel flapped shut, having gathered up all the items Damian had linked to the magic item. In that very same moment, a bright flash of light appeared within the room.

Danica turned to see a powerfully built man dressed in fine robes staring at her. He raised his eyebrows and said, "Danica."

Ebonar! Damian thought to Danica in a shout.

"Ebonar, is it? So you're the bootlicker that's taken over for him," Danica taunted. Go through the portal -- now! Danica informed the couple behind her.

Ebonar took a step toward Danica. "As my Master once told you, nothing happens within these walls that escapes my notice. I believe it is time you returned to your proper place here."

Damian grasped Branene's arm and tugged her through the portal, much to Danica's relief. "No, I think I'll have to decline your hospitality." Tossing the chain she'd removed from Damian at the man, Danica said, "We won't be needing this, either."

Speaking a single word, Ebonar activated a prepared spell, attempting to ensnare Danica with his magic as the pendant bounced off his robe to fall to the floor.

Powder blue light burst from the runes on Danica's skin, protecting her and the portal from his magic with a shield of energy. "You're just as arrogant as Zoraster was," Danica said as she took a step backward toward the portal. Despite her bravado, she recognized the power behind Ebonar's spell and respected it. For a simple binding spell to cause her rune shield to shudder, it had to have tremendous strength behind it.

Ebonar didn't answer, and paused a few feet from where Danica stood poised to enter the portal. He spoke words of magic, and Danica recognized the danger. The man was withholding the final word that would release his spell, waiting for Danica to enter the portal. If he could release his spell in the few moments between when she crossed the dimensional rift and closed the portal, he could dispell her Hellgate with his kaleidoscopic strike. That would leave her weak as a kitten, at his mercy, along with Damian and Branene.

Thinking quickly, Danica lashed out with her telekinetic powers, attempting to shove Ebonar into the wall. A bubble of countering telekinetic energy sprang up around her target, ruining the attack. Though she thought she could summon up enough power to penetrate the shield, she doubted that he would give her time to do so. She also had little doubt that any attack with her magic would take too long to penetrate his defenses.

Just as Danica prepared to risk using her mental powers to attack his mind, a great cloud of smoke arose in the room from Ebonar's feet. Danica just felt the brush against her robe and caught a glimpse of Damian's hand in her peripheral vision. Not wasting the opportunity, she fell into the portal, closing it as soon as she was inside.

Sitting on her bottom in the grass of her pocket realm, Danica breathed out a great sigh of relief and let her head fall back to the ground. "Thank you, Damian."

"No -- thank you. I offered but a tiny bit of assistance."

Branene asked, "Damian, what is all this about?"

"I'm sorry to spring this all on you, but we'll have time to explain at Darkni's," Danica said as she shifted the focus of the portal to the powerful wizard's isle. As soon as the portal shimmered to show the welcome sight of her destination, Danica opened the portal. When she gestured, Damian hurried through the portal, hand-in-hand with Branene. Danica followed right behind them, smiling as she closed the Hellgate, seeing the excited look on Damian's face.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"This should work," Ashley declared, looking at the spell she, Celes, and Andrea had written.

"Guess we'll find out if we're all Edna expects of us when we find the right demon to use it on," Celes said.

A transparent image of Danica appeared in front of the three witches, her body bisected by the table at which they all sat. "Celes, I'm at Darkni's island. I'm probably going to be here for a little bit. Could you take care of firing the kiln when the girls are done with their toys?"

Celes responded, "Of course. Edna said you were going looking for wood. How did you end up on Darkni's island?"

"I just snatched Damian out of Zoraster's complex. The madman's replacement had put a slave chain on him."

"You did what? Have you gone daft, Danica? What were you thinking -- going in there alone on a moment's notice and..."

"I'm sorry, Celes. I know. I'll explain when I get home. Right now, I have to explain things to Darkni and Branene. You can spank me when I get back."

Celes pursed her lips and shook her finger at the image of the redhead. "You'd best bet that I'm going to hold you to that -- the explanation and the spanking."

"That isn't all that discouraging," Danica said with a crooked smile, and then winked before her image faded from view.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Master," Ebonar began, speaking to Zoraster through a magic mirror.

The Archmage cut off his surrogate, "I know. Did you truly believe that I would fail to notice Danica's presence?" Though livid over the intrusion, Zoraster's features betrayed nothing of his anger. "Your concern is to ensure it does not happen again, after you have completed the task she interrupted."

"Of course, Master."

"The corpse supersedes all. In her body lies the seed of that which I seek. I will accept no further delay." Zoraster broke the contact with the successor he had created so violently that both mirrors shattered from the arcane energy.

He didn't even feel the shard of glass lodged in his thigh, leaving a spreading stain upon his fine silk robe.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

After a quick explanation to Branene and Darkni, Danica let the two men indulge their natural curiosity about each other. Sharing a passion for the creation of original magic, little could have kept them from venturing down that avenue.

Branene sat with Darkni's wife, Carol -- the faintest hints of a smile returning to her face. Though willing to accept the need, Branene was still unamused with her man for hiding the escape from her.

Taking a deep breath, Danica walked over to where the two women sat talking. She could see the hard edge of distrust in Branene's eyes as the older woman noticed her approach. "We had a very bad start. I'd very much like to change that. I'd like for us to be friends," Danica said to Damian's mate.

Although she looked as though she was about to say something harsh and dismissive, Branene's features softened a second later, before any words could pass her lips. "I may have been wrong about you," she admitted.

"It's understandable," Danica responded.

"Danica ever has the best interests of all she encounters in her heart," Carol added.

After taking a deep breath, Branene swallowed her pride and said, "Thank you."

"You're welcome. The two of you deserve to be happy together," Danica said.

"Would you like me to drag my husband away by his ear, so that you can have some time with Damian?" Carol asked with a little chuckle.

"Oh, oh dear," Damian said, having heard Carol. He turned toward Branene and said, "I just lost track of..."

Branene smiled at her man and said, "I understand. If I didn't, I would have taken you off to lash you with my tongue already. For now, I'm glad to see you smile again."

Darkniciad laughed and clapped Damian on the shoulder. "We will have ample time to discuss our mutual interest in enchantment. Carol will show you to the rooms I have set aside for you, so that you may get your tongue lashing out of the way." He laughed, drawing scowls from both his wife and Branene.

"If you're in need of a rescue, I'd like to ask you a few things," Danica offered and then chuckled.

"Please, it will postpone my own tongue lashing, I believe."

"The key word is postpone, Carol said with a deceptively sweet smile, as she stood to guide Damian and Branene to their new quarters.

"And thus do I ever remain humble," Darkni chuckled.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica returned to the manor in a very good mood that evening. She'd managed to rescue her mentor, and torment Zoraster's lackey. She'd also sweet-talked Darkniciad and Damian into helping her with the workload of magic items she wanted to protect Ashley, Edna, and Andrea. Along with the balsa in her bag of holding, she also carried a dozen silver eggs, each topped with a sapphire. When someone pressed the sapphire and concentrated on somewhere that they knew well, the magic of the eggs would teleport the user and anyone he or she touched to that location.

In a fine mood indeed, she walked into the lab to find Ashley and Andrea hard at work making potions. "I have presents," she said with a grin, pulling two of the eggs out of her bag. "Did the girls finish their toys?"

"They're in the kiln," Andrea replied. "Edna took them to the baths. If you listen closely enough, you can probably hear them splashing. Those are beautiful," she added, looking at the glimmering eggs.

"Useful, too," Danica said, handing one to both of the witches. "I'll explain it better later, but you can use those to teleport to places that you know. That way, you won't have to depend upon Celes and me to take you somewhere. I have some for Marlena and Edna too. Where is Celes?"

Ashley pointed off in the direction of Celes' room. "She's not very happy with you right now."

Danica winced and asked, "Is she really that upset?"

Andrea answered, "Yes. I'm not happy that you would do something so dangerous by yourself, either." The blonde's stern expression surprised Danica a little.

Pouring some of the potion she'd made into a vial, Ashley added, "That makes three of us. Four, actually. I'm sure that Edna and Celes invented some new swear words. It will be five as soon as Marlena finds out."

Danica winced and sheepishly apologized, "Sorry."

"Just don't let it happen again," Andrea warned, her expression still stern.

Ashley let out a little chuckle and said, "I'm sorry. You just reminded me of Edna for a second there." She chuckled again and patted the blonde witch's hand.

"I promise I'll be more considerate and careful," Danica said. She couldn't help but smile, thinking about how much Andrea had grown up since they'd met. Barely over the threshold to womanhood at their first meeting, Andrea had matured a great deal over the last couple of years.

"I don't think you're going to get away so easily with Celes," Ashley advised, slowly shaking her head.

"She's that upset?"

"Livid," Ashley answered.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Meckataur crouched over the rift to the hells, contemplating the touch of dark power in his spawn. Only once before had he tasted of that unique vintage, on the day he had destroyed B'Lasco's gatekeeper to assimilate his former slave master's powers. Though the Devil's powers were legion, it was that seemingly insignificant touch of darkness that most intrigued Meckataur.

Meckataur yearned for more -- the urge so strong that it had required tremendous willpower not to destroy his spawn to obtain it. He could feel that darkness burning in his blood, tugging him toward something, though the direction was as yet indistinct.

Unaccustomed to such inactivity, Meckataur nevertheless sat on the edge of the abyss for many hours -- all else forgotten -- willing that power to reveal its location that he might obtain it.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica knocked on Celes' door hesitantly, having nearly decided to let the dark-haired witch have a night for her anger to cool.

"It's open," Celes said in a carefully controlled tone of voice.

Danica peeked her head in the room and asked, "Can I come in -- or am I about to see if I can withstand one of your lightning bolts?"

Celes sat cross-legged on her bed with her hands on her knees, palms upturned. Candles burned in several places, filling the room with the scent of honeysuckle and lavender. After a final, deep breath, Celes opened her eyes. "What were you thinking?"

Danica stepped into the room and closed the door behind her. "I couldn't bear to know that Damian was there with one of Zoraster's slave chains around his neck."

"And you had to do this alone -- why?" As Celes said the final word, one of her candles shot across the room, the melted end sticking to the wall for a moment before it fell to the floor. Above anything else, the unwanted expression of her powers revealed how angry she truly was.

Danica sighed and walked over to pick up the candle, carrying it over to the bed with her. "You're right, I shouldn't have gone alone. It was foolish and inconsiderate. I'm sorry," she said as she sat down.

"Damn it all, Danica. You know as well as I do that we only escaped there because of careful planning and a lifetime's worth of luck. The madman was far from the only danger in that place. What if you'd been captured again? What if one of his dark wizards had trapped your soul to torment me? Do you want me to go through that again?" Tears welled up in Celes' eyes as she spoke, her voice steadily rising in volume.

Danica's eyes misted over as well, as she realized just how much pain she'd caused her friend. She reached out for Celes' hands and folded them in her own. "I'm so sorry, Celes. I didn't think at all about anyone else. I'm just so used to acting on the spur of the moment, of doing everything myself."

A single tear rolled down Celes' cheek. "Well, damn it, stop that. We're all here together for a reason. Our strength is in each other. I hate the idea of Damian being enslaved to Zoraster's madness just as much as you do. I wouldn't have argued for even a second, and I doubt any of the others would have either. We would have all went together to make sure he was safe."

"I know. It won't happen again -- I promise."

"See that it doesn't, or I will turn you over my knee," Celes said and punctuated it with a chuckle that was half-broken by a small sob.

Danica leaned forward and enveloped Celes in her arms, an embrace that Celes quickly matched. For long minutes, they simply held each other, letting their emotions settle down.

"Are we okay, then?" Danica whispered in Celes' ear.

Celes sat back and answered, "I'm just glad you're home safe."

Danica gave her friend a little kiss on the forehead, and felt Celes shiver. That reaction prompted Danica to kiss first one temple, and then the other. A moment later, their lips found each other in a long, soft kiss.

Danica felt the surge of passion from Celes the second they broke from the kiss. Celes reached out and stroked her fingers through Danica's auburn tresses, and then leaned in again for a far more ardent kiss. Danica responded in kind, her passions rising to match Celes'

Celes' fingers moved downward to the buttons on the back of Danica's dress, her deft fingers popping the closures open almost of their own volition. Danica slipped her fingers beneath the light shift Celes wore, stroking her fingers over the dark-haired woman's thighs.

As soon as she popped open the last button, Celes sensually slid her hands up Danica's back to the redhead's shoulders, tugging the straps of Danica's brassiere down upon reaching them. Danica's fingers curled around Celes' body to the witch's firm bottom for a squeeze before she pulled her arms back, allowing Celes to tug down both dress and bra, baring Danica's breasts.

A loud gasp passed Danica's lips as Celes kissed the swell of her right breast. A second and third kiss followed, and then Celes moved to trace kisses over Danica's right breast. All the while, Danica's fingers caressed her lover's back and she let out languid little moans of arousal.

After a teasing lick circumnavigating Danica's nipple without touching the areola, Celes put her hands behind the redhead's back and leaned forward, guiding Danica down to the bed. Danica lifted her bottom without a single conscious thought, as Celes kissed her lover's belly and pulled the dress downward over the redhead's hips. 

As soon as the dress reached her ankles, Danica lifted her bottom again. Celes' fingers were already sliding beneath the cotton of Danica's panties, seeking to fully reveal her body. Once Danica freed the final piece of cloth from her ankles, Celes sat up on her knees and pulled off her shift, revealing that she wore nothing beneath it.

Celes lay down and enfolded Danica in her arms again, both women lying on their sides with their bare bodies fitting together like two pieces of a puzzle. She kissed the redhead's neck, her rising arousal evident with every touch of her lips. Her body undulated in a slow wave against Danica's, the redhead moaning and rubbing her fingers over her lover's back, thighs, and buttocks.

Celes sat up and took a deep breath, letting her head loll back and her hair hang behind her like a curtain. She then looked down at Danica with a sultry smile and tugged on one of the redhead's knees, silently instructing Danica to lift and bend the knee.

Celes slipped her leg slowly through the opening created, grasping the upthrust leg and utilizing it to allow her to move closer. She unfolded the leg beneath her, stretching it out toward Danica as she moved closer. When their moist labia touched, Celes wiggled her hips and let out a sharp, high-pitched groan.

Continuing to use Danica's leg as a handle, Celes' hips moved in a carefully coordinated dance, rubbing her sex against Danica's. Their folds slipped over each other, making moist little sounds and sending tingles of energy through both women.

Danica wrapped her fingers around Celes' ankle, using the support to pull Celes even tighter against her. The intimacy of the contact combined with the unique, slippery feel of their labia sliding over each other to build a bubble of ecstatic energy in Danica's loins. Celes' folds caressed her clit just enough to slowly, but steadily increase the tingling beginnings of a climax. From the sounds Celes emitted, she had little doubt that the beautiful brunette was likewise climbing her mountain of pleasure.

Both women's hips gyrated faster as they neared their peaks. As if they knew exactly what the other was going to do, they remained in perfect synchronization, their nether lips remaining tightly pressed together to create a hot, slick friction. Their sounds of pleasure grew ever louder as they both spiraled upward toward their peaks.

Celes cried out as she came, her grip on Danica's leg tightening almost painfully. Between the sound of Celes coming and her body quaking, Danica tumbled over the edge as well. She let out a squeal, erupting in a geyser of girl cum, the juices squirting out to soak both women and the bed.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 09



Quivering and gasping, both women twitched from the spikes of ecstatic release assaulting them, providing continued stimulation that kept them both coming. Celes fell back to the bed, her hips still rocking to grind her sex into Danica's. Between pants for breath, Danica kissed Celes' foot, moaning in bliss.

When both women at last settled down from their orgasms, Danica managed to untangle her legs from Celes to sit up and lay next to the smiling witch. Mindless of the wet spot on the bed and the sticky juices on their bodies, the two women embraced to enjoy the closeness and the afterglow.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

As Celes and Danica drifted off into a sated sleep, a couple in Normandal awakened in terror. The man barely had time to register the sound of the front door crashing inward before a pair of goblins swarmed into the room. He tried to rise from the bed, but fell to a stab from one of the goblin's spears before he could gain his feet. His wife screamed in horrified despair as he collapsed lifeless across her legs.

Seconds later, the other goblin hurled her husband's corpse to the floor, replacing the weight on her body with its own. She struggled in vain against the monster's strength, crying out and sobbing as the creature tore away her clothing, its eyes filled with lust and murder.

All along the northern border, families roused from their beds in a panic. Though only a few overzealous raiding parties of the assembling goblin host, the monsters left a swath of corpses and burned farmsteads behind them.

The dead were the lucky ones, as the women who lived faced a fate worse than death. They would live, but would wish for death every moment as goblin after goblin violated them.

Watching through his magical mirror, Zoraster smiled. His anger at Danica forgotten, he sipped wine and watched his unwitting minions do his bidding.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

I hope you're enjoying Book II in Danica's trilogy. Please take a moment to vote/comment, because that's how you toss your symbolic coin into my hat. Individual chapter votes can tell me a lot, so do vote on every chapter if you wish.

Apologies for the delay. I'm struggling with my muse again. Those of you who were with me at the end of Danica know how it is. The story will come out, because I'm dedicated to that. I promise that I'll get new chapters out as quickly as possible.

Big thanks to Roust Writer for his editing. I don't know how I got along without his keen eye, quick wit, and insight.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 10



Author's Notes:

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission.

© Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Marlena awakened confused, in an unfamiliar bed. As the sleep fog in her head burned away, she dimly remembered growing sleepy as she sat in a chair talking long into the night with Devan about their shared passion for illusion magic. Marlena hoped that Devan had gained as much from their conversation as she had.

Stretching and shrugging off the coverings over her, she rose from the bed to examine her rumpled robe. She straightened it as best she could, and then moved to a vanity, finding a brush there to make her hair presentable.

A glance out the window told her that it was well into morning, and she knew that she'd already missed breakfast back at the manor. Her grumbling stomach informed her rather pointedly that she'd missed breakfast here as well.

Upon opening the door, she realized that she had no idea where she was in the tower. Shrugging her shoulders, she headed up the stairs, knowing that Devan's private quarters were at the top of the tower.

When she opened the door, Marlena found Devan dressed and packing a few things into the pockets of her robe. She apologized, "I'm sorry I fell asleep."

Devan made a dismissive gesture. "It's probably a good thing. I was about to nod off too, and then we'd both have woke up stiff as boards in these chairs. Feel like joining me on a little jaunt?"

"Where?"

"Up north to Normandal. Goblin raids are nothing unusual up there, but last night was worse than usual. The King contacted Thakkor, and he wants me to go take a look up there."

"I'm sure there are others who would be far more useful than me."

"You need to stop underestimating yourself. Trust me — you are. I watched Danica do it her whole life, so I'm pretty much an expert. You obviously need to get out a little, or you wouldn't have thought of coming here. Come along with me. I'd like the company."

Marlena grinned and answered, "I will." The sound of her stomach rumbling nearly drowned out her words, however.

Devan chuckled and said, "Breakfast first. If there are any goblins left in the area, they'll hear us coming from a mile away otherwise."

Marlena laughed and nodded her head in agreement.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Widely varied sounds of excitement erupted from the girls as they beheld their toys, the colors of the glaze now vibrant after firing.

"Are they done?" Celes' clone Selena asked. Her cheeks turned red when her sisters erupted in giggles.

"Not yet," Danica laughed. "I haven't enchanted them yet. I'll start working the magic on them today. If everything goes right, they'll be finished soon."

"Come along, girls. You've been away from your studies long enough."

"Yes, Gran," the girls sighed in response before turning to follow her to their wing of the manor.

"Those are about the only thing that could distract those girls from reading," Celes remarked. "I know I wasn't half the student any of them are. Reading bored me to tears."

"I think it's knowing that they can't learn to do magic unless they learn to read," Danica suggested. "They have such an odd combination of childishness and maturity."

"I would ask if the two of you made up, but there was little doubt of it last night," Ashley said with a coy smile.

"Oh?" Celes glanced at the redheaded witch knowingly. "I thought you were going to take Marlena's bed last night, since she was off visiting Danica's sister. That's an awful lot of thick walls and open space to have heard anything."

Andrea's blush and her embarrassed chuckle instantly confirmed Celes' suspicions.

Ashley laughed, her face just as red as Andrea's.

"I think Celes won this round," Danica remarked, fighting down her own laughter.

"So, should we pick out a demon to try to capture?" Ashley asked, changing the subject.

Celes tapped her fingers twice on the table and responded, "Now is as good a time as any."

Ashley walked over to the honeycomb of cells holding the many maps that each member of the group had provided. "Any map in particular we should use?"

Danica made the first suggestion. "We should avoid Ferrartene."

"Egoria, Freeland, and Armand as well," Celes added.

Turning to Celes, Danica asked, "The Western Baronies?"

"Zoraster seems to have a lot of influence there too," Celes argued.

"There weren't many reports of demons there, were there?" Andrea asked.

Celes pursed her lips and tilted her head back with a little grunt of consideration. "If we do find demons there, then we'll know that they just weren't as active before most of them went underground."

Ashley selected a few maps, already hearing the sound of agreement in the voices of her newfound friends. "The Western Baronies it is, then," she said as she walked back over to the table with the maps.

Everyone gathered around the table as Ashley cast her blessed earthen sphere down at the map. Once the cascade of sparks settled, Danica and Celes both looked at each other with obvious concern etched on their faces.

"What is it?" Andrea asked.

Celes pointed at the largest red spot on the map. "That's the Forge."

Danica stood and said, "I'm going to send letters to everyone right now. They need to be warned — quickly."

"Trapping a demon may just have to wait," Celes warned ominously.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Turning away from the corpse of yet another child, Marlena wiped her eyes and asked in a small voice, "Did the monsters leave anyone alive?"

Devan pulled a sheet from the bed, spreading it over the small body on the floor. "Unfortunately, it looks like they did. Did you notice that we're only finding very young girls and very old women?"

"Oh gods," Marlena gasped, covering her mouth.

Both women turned toward the window when they heard the sound of hoof beats. Upon seeing armed men in the livery of Normandal, Devan gestured for Marlena to follow her outside.

Weapons snapped from sheathes the moment the two redheads stepped through the partially charred doorway of the house. Ignoring the obviously threatening posture, Devan continued forward and asked, "Who's the swiftest rider with you?"

The leader of the patrol countered with a question of his own, "Who are you?"

"Devan. Thakkor sent me. Those filthy goblins have prisoners. Send your fastest rider to warn any other patrols in the area. If you want to see any of these women alive again, you need to get every man possible out here hunting for them."

Snapping a finger toward one of his fellow riders, the leader ordered, "Get back to Captain Rhys so he can spread the word. As soon as you're done there, trade for a fresh mount and ride straight back to Hamiltown. Tell the governor to muster up every man who can ride and swing a sword."

"And we're going on a goblin hunt," Devan said, gesturing for Marlena to follow.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Hearing a faint, chiming sound, Mara signaled for her sister and the promising young man they'd discovered to halt. Even though she hadn't heard the chime, Nara could hear Mara's thoughts, and thus knew that Danica had sent a message.

Mara withdrew the magical bowl from her satchel, finding the letter inside. Her smile faded almost as soon as she unfolded the piece of paper. Hearing the words echoing in Mara's mind, Nara's expression darkened as well.

Replacing the bowl in her satchel, Mara said, "We must return now."

"I agree, Sister," Nara replied.

Mara gestured to the confused young warrior standing nearby. "Come close, Gerald. Though we had hoped to further evaluate your skills on the march to the Forge, something has occurred that demands our immediate attention."

The three travelers clasped hands, and then vanished in a flash of light, returning to the Forge.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Janelle opened her door to find Venaru standing outside, his grim expression revealing that he had received the same ill news that she and Bear had just perused. "Terran has already spoken with us. He suggests we should meet at the college," she informed the wiry warrior.

As Janelle stepped outside with her towering husband, Venaru asked, "How is it that such a demon could be amongst us, unknown?"

"Perhaps he has not gone unnoticed," Janelle said, thinking of the dangerous, yet promising warrior that had recently arrived to dominate even more advanced trainees at the Forge.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Mache faltered in his march near the forest south of the Forge, feeling the touch of scrying magic. The sensation lasted for but a fraction of a second, but even that brief encounter revealed the nature of the spy — a witch.

"Back in step, Mache — you worthless son of a whore!"

"About time he made a mistake," someone behind Mache whispered.

Recognizing the voice, Mache smiled, adding the speaker and the instructor to the list of people who would taste his fire first, once his sire allowed him to unleash his power.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica returned to the room where everyone else still sat around the table. "I sent letters to everyone. At least they won't be unaware of the danger, now. I got a reply back from Janelle. She already suspects someone, but says he doesn't look anything like a demon."

"Some powerful demons can take human forms that are nearly impossible to distinguish from any normal person," Ashley revealed. "We've checked a more detailed map. The demon isn't actually at the Forge, it appears to be somewhere to the south."

"So, we go send it back to hell," Celes suggested, flipping her hand in the gesture she usually used when activating her powers.

"We know nothing of this demon's powers — only that it's strong," Ashley warned.

"It's only one demon," Celes scoffed. "We dealt with three and didn't even get a scratch."

"We were prepared, and knew their powers," Ashley countered.

"Bah. What should we do, then?"

"I've already tweaked Ebonar's nose once. I think Celes and I should go see what we can learn," Danica suggested. "We're well known at the Forge, so we won't arouse suspicion with anyone there that doesn't have a nefarious purpose."

"I don't like it," Andrea interjected. "If it's a powerful demon, we should all go together."

"Celes and I have the strongest protective magic right now, and we won't be alone. I know you never met Terran, Janelle, Bear, or the others, but we all work together well. We're just going to see what we can find out. I promise we won't confront it."

"I'm not fond of the idea either." Ashley sighed and added, "But, I understand what you're saying. Anything you can learn will help. The demons seem to be going underground, hiding their presence. It may not wish a confrontation."

"So Danica and I go sniff the thing out, and then we all go send it back to hell," Celes said with a wicked grin.

Ashley nodded her agreement, and Andrea reluctantly did so as well. "What about Marlena? With the two of you gone, how will she get home when she calls?" Andrea asked.

With a knowing smile, Danica asked, "You know my sister's pattern, don't you?"

Andrea blushed, mirroring her action upon first seeing the ring of intertwined bodies that formed Devan's teleportation pattern in the tower. "Don't tease."

"Then you can use your teleport egg and go pick up Marlena," Danica said, knowing full well that Andrea was anxiously awaiting the opportunity to do so. The young woman had a distinct fondness for teleporting for some reason, even above her love of magic in general.

Seeing the smile creeping across Andrea's face, Danica laughed and said, "I think that settles it. Let's go get ready, Celes. It will be nice to see everyone again — demon or no demon."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Scrunching up her nose against the stink of the ripped garment, Devan cast her spell again. "They're close. This bunch with whatever goblin lost this will never attack anyone again when we're done with them."

Devan gestured for Marlena to follow, still a little in awe of the invisibility spell the illusionist had cast over them. The pair had walked within a few feet of a deer without alarming the skittish creature, and yet they could see each other perfectly. Despite her strong command of illusion magic, Devan knew a true master when she encountered one. Marlena's abilities were nothing short of phenomenal.

The distinctive odor of unwashed sweat, rotting meat, and excrement that always permeated anywhere goblins dwelled reached the two women at the same time as the sound of the monsters. Mixed in with the grunts and chattering in the goblin language, Devan heard weak whimpers in a feminine voice.

Carefully scanning her surroundings, Devan found the sentry she expected up in the fork of a tree. The creature was looking the wrong way, observing whatever was happening in the rude goblin encampment. "Get ready to recast your spell. I'm going to take out that goblin so it can't warn anyone if it does happen to look this way."

Marlena nodded and retrieved a small diamond from one of her pouches, the material component of the powerful spell.

Devan spoke the words of the spell and gestured toward the goblin, which instantly slumped in its perch, sound asleep. She then lowered her hand, letting her concentration on a ring of telekinesis lapse when she observed that the goblin was well wedged in its perch.

Marlena cast her spell, once more shrouding the two redheads in a cloak of magical stealth. After only a short walk through the trees, both women scowled upon seeing a goblin atop a young blonde. The woman was obviously too weak to struggle, only able to emit a few whimpers as the monster raped her. Other goblins looked on, awaiting their turn.

"I'll take care of that one," Devan growled, pointing to indicate the goblin furiously pounding its victim.

Remembering a tactic that Danica and the others had used when assaulting the monsters in the wood at the Forge, Marlena said. "I'll take care of the rest."

Hearing the confident and somewhat devious tone of the illusionist's voice, Devan let out a dark chuckle and said, "I like the sound of that."

"Try to remain under cover when you attack and my cloaking spell lapses. I doubt the goblins will pay much attention to anything else once I turn my illusions on them, though."

"Ready?"

Marlena nodded, her hands and lips already conjuring up her spell.

Devan spoke the words of her spell, releasing a magical missile. The dart of light struck the goblin square in the head, blasting through the monster's skull and out the other side. As the dead creature slumped over the pitifully sobbing woman, Marlena completed her spell, willing power into it from both her artifact and her gift.

Devan's eyes widened in surprise when six ogres burst from the trees surrounding the camp, bellowing a challenge. The goblins immediately panicked, fleeing from the monsters and making no effort to confront the enormous enemies now in their midst. One of the ogre illusions brought down its massive club, smashing a goblin into the earth with a sickening thud and several sharp cracks. As though boneless, the goblin crumpled into a heap, every limb twisted at impossible angles.

With the remainder of the goblins in full flight, Devan moved into the camp. Marlena followed, releasing her control over all but one of the ogres, allowing the illusions to fade and vanish. Sending a thought to her ring, Devan used its magic to hurl the goblin atop the young woman into a tree. She knelt down, shaking her head sadly. The woman was covered in scratches from the monster's claws, leaking cum from her abused sex, and nearly senseless from the mind-numbing despair of relentless rapes.

"Filthy vermin," Devan muttered under her breath. The sounds of goblin voices in the wood caused her to turn in the direction of the sound. She was surprised to see a goblin peeking through the foliage, and then a second. "Not good," she said as more and more goblins appeared, the monsters now approaching with weapons drawn.

Marlena ordered her remaining ogre to attack, but the monsters continued to stream from the dark interior of the forest. Devan stood and hastily cast a spell, summoning up a wall of flame between her and the approaching goblins.

As more and more monsters appeared, Devan let out a curse and ceased in casting her next spell. "Marlena, there are too many of them. This is no raiding party. We have to get this woman out of here and warn Normandal."

Ordering her ogre to smash another goblin, Marlena couldn't help but agree. The wood was alive with goblins, growing more courageous as their numbers swelled. She hurried to Devan's side, taking the other redhead's hand even as Devan grasped the limp hand of the woman on the ground. 

Afraid to teleport the weakened woman normally, Devan changed her mind and cast the Hellgate instead. The transition from place to place wasn't as hard on the body as the instantaneous move of the teleportation spell. Mentally causing the portal to swallow up all three of them, Devan stood and pulled healing potions from her bag of holding. "See if you can get one of those in her."

"I'll try to clean her up a little, too. I have a spare robe in my bag that she can cover up with. Poor girl."

"I don't know whether we did her a favor in saving her or not," Devan said grimly. "She may never recover from the shock." Shifting the focus of the portal, she eventually found the approaching men of Normandal, just in time.

Opening the portal so that the soldiers and volunteers could see her, Devan shouted, "Wait! There are too many of them! If you go in there with anything less than an army, it's suicide."

The leader of the men protested, "But, the women taken..."

"There's nothing you can do. We saved one, but I don't know if she'll thank us for it." Looking over at Marlena and the young blonde, Devan saw the illusionist struggling to clothe the woman's nude body in a robe. Utilizing her ring, Devan assisted Marlena by lifting the unconscious blonde up from the ground.

As soon as Marlena tied the robe, Devan said, "Find out if she has any family still alive. She's going to need them. We're going to Osborn to warn the King personally. Make sure nobody enters that wood, and I suggest you start building fortifications. Anything you can do to slow them down until you're prepared to hold them off will help." The power of Devan's magic ring safely deposited the blonde on the ground.

"I understand. Gods speed you to the King — and protect us all."

Devan nodded by way of farewell, and then closed the portal again. Ignoring the scantily clad demons appearing within the room that comprised her personal realm in the Hellgate, she shifted the focus to the capital of Normandal.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 10



C'seka tasted Danica in both of the females before him. Prudently, he simply observed. Direct action against those associated with the tantalizing — and dangerous — female called Danica had proven painful.

Both females were attractive, sharing the fiery-colored manes of the female, Danica. C'seka's cock stood erect and throbbing, desire mingling with his hunger for their power and their flesh. Their concern for other beings intrigued him, an alien concept to any demon.

Remaining in the background of the other demons attempting to tempt the females, C'seka considered whether this weakness could be exploited.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Devan and Marlena reappeared in Devan's tower, having informed the King of Normandal about the goblin horde assembling on the edge of the country. "I need to go talk to Thakkor. Normandal is an important ally, one of the few that is willing to openly build up their forces with us. I'm sure Thakkor will send help," Devan said.

Marlena gave Devan's hand a final squeeze before releasing it. "I'll call for Danica or Celes to come pick me up. Maybe we can help."

"Danica hates goblins as much as I do, and we'd be fools to refuse help from all of you. Tell my sister I love her, and tell everyone else I said hello. We're going to have to do this again — minus the goblins, of course."

"I'd like that," Marlena responded with a smile.

"Sorry to be rude," Devan said with a wink, and then vanished from the tower.

Marlena called upon her magic, sending her image and voice streaking across the miles to the valley and manor she now called home. When she couldn't locate Danica or Celes immediately, she chose to talk to Andrea and Ashley instead. Both women started a little when Marlena's image appeared next to them in the room. "Are Celes or Danica there? I'm ready to come home, and I have news about a goblin attack — a big one."

"They went to the Forge, but I'll come get you," Andrea said with a little more excitement in her voice than she'd actually intended.

Even the partially transparent image of Marlena showed her confusion. "You'll come get me?"

It was Marlena's turn to start when Andrea suddenly vanished from sight, only to reappear in her peripheral vision. "How?"

Andrea held up her little silvery egg. "Presents from Danica, and I guess they work. You can use them to go anywhere that you know well, or has one of these patterns that you can memorize. I have one for you too, so you can actually take yourself home."

"Why did they go to the Forge?"

"We found a very dangerous demon there. Danica and Celes went to see if they could learn anything about it," Andrea explained as she handed Marlena one of the little teleportation devices.

"Well, let's go home and you can tell me more there." Marlena sighed and added, "We'll have to add goblins to our list of enemies, now."

"It's better than demons," Andrea suggested.

"Not by much," Marlena countered. "How do these work?"

"Just imagine home and press on the little gemstone. One second you're here, and the next you're there. It's wonderful. I'll see you at home." With that, Andrea vanished.

Unable to suppress a smile brought on by the young blonde's exuberance, Marlena activated her egg and vanished as well.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica opened her eyes, having just utilized her gift to protect her friends at the Forge. Just before leaving, Danica had received a note from Mara saying that everyone would meet them in a council room at the college of magic on the grounds of the Forge. "I don't know how much it will help, but I know better than to think that any of you will hide from danger."

"Danger would do well to hide from us," Bear declared with a flippant air. The hulking mountain of a man puffed out his chest and continued, "The Companions of the Forge are not to be trifled with."

"I wish Brandon, Cheron, and those two grumpy dwarves were here," Celes said after a little chuckle at Bear's posturing.

Nara glanced at her twin sister, both dark-haired women nodding in agreement. Nara said, "As do we all, I'm sure."

Danica sat down and turned toward the lithe archer, Janelle. "You said that you suspected someone?"

Janelle nodded and answered, "Mache. He arrived here only a short while ago, but he excels even beyond men and women who have trained here for a year or more. There's just something — wrong about him."

"I have watched that one," Terran declared, tousling his dark, shoulder length locks. The wizard sat up straighter in his chair. "I haven't had as much contact with him, but I too find him disconcerting."

"That's as good a place to start as any," Danica said with a tilt of her head and a half shrug. "If anyone else has any ideas, feel free to speak up. We've learned a lot about demons from someone who knows them well, and she believes that the demon could be hiding, attempting to avoid detection."

"So it could be anyone," Venaru interjected. His poised wiry frame and his stern gaze combining to give the impression that he might spring from the chair like an unleashed missile at any moment, though the eastern warrior actually sat quite comfortably in his chair, stroking his cheeks beneath his almond-shaped eyes in thought.

"Not anyone you know well, most likely," Celes said with a shake of her head. "They might be able to look like someone you know, but they're still demons. You'd know by the way they acted that there was something wrong."

"So it could be any recent recruit, or anyone we don't know well," Terran said.

With a little dismissive gesture of her right hand, Danica said, "Or it could be nobody here. When we found the demon, it was actually south of here, near the woods."

Janelle pointed her finger toward Danica and tilted her head back with a little satisfied sound before saying, "Mache's group marched near the woods around the time your note arrived."

"Are you sure your instant dislike for the man might not be associated with his womanizing ways?" Bear asked his wife.

Janelle glared at her husband, who shrank back into his chair away from his slender wife, drawing a chorus of laughter from all in the room. Drawing out the word dramatically in a tone that sounded as though she was speaking with a child, Janelle said, "No."

Speaking words that magically created water within a scrying bowl at the center of the table, Mara asked, "Shall we have a look at this Mache?"

Nods and sounds of agreement prompted Mara to cast her spell. "Unless someone knows where he is, I'll concentrate on large groups at first."

"He should be with his group in the mess hall right now," Janelle responded.

Bear asked, "Have you been keeping track of him?"

"Even before we found out about the demon, I didn't trust him. I know a few of the men in his group well, and they're keeping me informed," Janelle answered.

"I'll begin there, then." Mara passed her hand in front of the scrying bowl, causing the waters within to swirl and glow with magical light. A few seconds later, an overhead view of the mess hall appeared.

"There he is," Janelle said, pointing out a table in the corner of the room where a man sat with four others, shunned by the rest of the warriors in training.

Mara focused in the scrying pool, and Celes saw the man's eyes dart toward the point of the magic. "He knows someone is scrying on him," she pointed out.

"He is rather handsome," Danica observed.

"He's devilishly charming to women and men like those, who follow him around like a litter of puppies," Janelle said and punctuated it with a disgusted snort.

Terran squinted at the image of the man. "I know that expression. I've worn it often enough while seeking out the source of something magical in the air. If everyone knows his face now, I suggest we cease scrying upon the man, as he obviously knows he is being observed."

"Not much we can learn from him shoveling food in his mouth," Celes said with a shrug.

Mara let the magic lapse. "I must concur with Janelle and Terran. There is something peculiar about that man."

"I will see if I can glean information from his thoughts as soon as possible," Nara said, tapping a finger against her forehead.

"Me too," Danica agreed. "Celes might be able to use some kind of witchcraft to find out for sure if he's a demon."

"The rest of us will keep watch," Venaru said.

"We should inform the Commander," Bear suggested.

"Absolutely," Danica agreed.

Janelle said, "His schedule this evening will be too restrictive to allow him much room for mischief."

Venaru stood and said, "I will have opportunity to observe him shortly. His group will seek my knowledge in open-handed fighting shortly after eating."

"You're back to teaching, now?" Janelle asked.

"I was not until a few moments ago. I will inform the Commander, as I must inform him of my readiness to return to my duties."

"I'll go with you," Bear said, "I have a student who shows tremendous promise that I want to talk to him about."

"Mara and I will attempt to seek out demons with our magic," Terran stated.

"Then Janelle can take Celes and me to see her little one," Danica happily declared.

Janelle's stern expression immediately softened into one of a mother about to show off her pride and joy. The three women were soon on their way to Janelle's home.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Catching up the crystal spinning over the map, Ashley shook her head and said, "There are no demons anywhere in the immediate area."

"There are certainly goblins. It reminded me of the hordes in the wood at..." Marlena trailed off, not really wanting to think about the assault on the Forge that she had reluctantly agreed to join in order to counter Zoraster's influence in the area.

"We should concentrate on the demons. Men with swords can counter goblins — they will not fare so well against hellspawn." Seeing the concerned expressions on the faces of Marlena and Andrea, Ashley added, "We'll make sure to tell Devan that she has our help if she needs it."

Andrea turned to Ashley and asked, "Should we scry around the Forge, to see where the demon is now?"

"I don't want to risk active scrying on a demon so powerful, and I hate to use another of the scrying beads right now. We only have a limited number until we can gather up some demon slime from another of Meckataur's host."

Marlena patted Andrea on the hand and said, "Danica and Celes will be fine. They're far more powerful than any of us alone, a terror when they're together, and with friends who've fought at their side before. They won't take any risks, and I'm sure they'll come for the two of you if they plan to attack the demon."

"The three of us," Andrea corrected.

"The two of you are the important ones," Marlena responded with a half smile.

Edna stepped into the lab and said, "Wash up and come along, now. Supper is ready."

All three women turned toward the old witch in surprise.

Edna winked and said, "Mind you, it's soup and this morning's bread, but it was made with loving hands."

"The girls?" Marlena asked.

"Yes, and I'd say they did a fine job for their first try. Now, come along. They're anxious to see what you think, and we should encourage that."

With nods and murmurs of agreement, the three women stood to follow Edna to the dining hall.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Aww, he's asleep. Not fair. He's so adorable," Danica said with a sigh.

Janelle smiled, cradling her sleeping son in her arm as she pulled her shirt back over the breast the babe had suckled until he fell asleep.

Bear walked back into the room after answering the door. "It was Nara and Mara. They've learned little to nothing so far. Nara says the man has strong mental defenses. She believes she could defeat them, but she doesn't want to play her hand yet."

Janelle spoke in a quiet voice, to avoid waking her sleeping child. "I doubt we'll learn anything with the recruits bunking down for the night soon. One of the men I trust is on duty during each watch, so we'll know if he leaves in the night."

Danica tore her eyes away from the babe to say, "We'll probably go home for the night, and then return in the morning. I don't think I could sleep well, considering what I know about Zoraster's involvement here."

"Dear, why don't you go to the tavern and buy some wine. Go to Honest John's so that it's drinkable." Turning from her husband to Danica and Celes, Janelle asked, "You can stay for a while to talk and sip a little wine, can't you?"

"Of course," Danica replied.

"I'll return as quickly as possible. Honest John's is a fair walk," Bear declared, and then kissed his wife and son before exiting the room.

"I should go put him to bed," Janelle said, glancing down at her son, and then carefully rising to do so.

Celes turned back from watching Janelle's bottom sway as she exited the room to find Danica smiling at her. "Well, I missed out when we were last together," she explained honestly.

Danica chuckled. "I noticed that you were a little more interested in Janelle's breast than the baby she was nursing at the time, too."

"You can't know what sort of torture it was for me. Janelle, Cheron, Nara, Mara, you..."

"I think I understand a little," Danica sighed.

Scooting over closer, Celes took her friend's hand in her own. "The baby?"

"I accepted that I'd never have children a long time ago, but it still hurts sometimes."

Celes brought Danica's hands to her lips and kissed it. "Aye, I think you do understand."

Janelle returned a minute or so later and asked, "Is everything all right?"

"Just dredging up old pains to entertain ourselves," Danica chuckled.

Janelle sat down on the couch next to Danica, taking the redhead's other hand. "It's so unfair that you can't have children. I know you'd be a wonderful mother."

"I guess you saw it in her eyes, like I did," Celes said.

"Actually, I overheard you. The house isn't that big."

The instant flush of color in Celes' cheeks brought a smile to Danica's lips. It wasn't easy to make her friend blush, and the softness it brought to Celes' expression made her all the more beautiful.

"It must have been so hard for you. We were all so insensitive," Janelle said, reaching over to cover Celes' hand as well.

"You couldn't have known about my curse," Celes said with a shrug.

The image that popped into Janelle's head then caused Danica to suck in a sharp breath and mouth the words, Oh my. She shivered a little as the naughty thoughts continued to race through the lithe archer's head.

Celes saw the flickering flame of desire in Janelle's eyes, which instantly caused her breathing to quicken.

The blonde traced little circles on Celes' hand with her fingertip, an aroused smile turning her lips upward. "We could make up for lost time. I haven't been with another woman since we all went our separate ways."

Danica didn't mouth the words this time. "Oh my," she sighed, feeling the current of sexual energy from the women on either side of her envelop her. Her own arousal bursting into instant flame, she pulled Janelle close to kiss her, and then did the same with Celes. As she and Celes parted lips, Danica tugged both women even closer.

Danica moaned as the two women kissed over her lap. She rubbed her stiff nipples as the blonde and brunette's tongues swirled through an erotic dance before her. When the two women's lips parted, Danica pulled on the tie of Celes' robe, while tugging the tail of Janelle's blouse free from her skirt. She then wiggled her way between them to stand, allowing her two friends to move closer together.

Once again, Celes and Janelle kissed. This time, their hands worked to unhook buttons and remove the cloth barriers between them. Danica assisted whenever necessary, removing her robe and brassiere as well.

Within a pair of minutes, all three women were clad in only their panties. Janelle and Celes sat on their knees on the couch, while Danica stood in front of them letting her hands roam over their bodies.

Celes kissed Janelle's neck, softly suckling the smooth skin, while Janelle stroked her fingers over and squeezed the raven-haired witch's bottom. After an especially loud gasp caused by a tickle of Celes' tongue where the blonde's neck met her shoulder, Janelle's fingers slipped beneath the witch's panties to push them downward.

With Janelle's assistance, Celes wriggled out of her panties and then turned her attention to the cloth hiding the treasure she sought. Janelle slipped her legs over the edge of the couch and stood, allowing her panties to drop to her ankles.

Janelle ran her finger over Danica's panties and said in a sultry whisper, "Off." She then took both women's hands and added, "Bed," with a twitch of her eyebrows.

Following the lithe blonde down the hall, Danica felt that she was surely going to start dripping. Janelle moved with the grace of a dancer, but the subtle shifting of her toned muscles spoke of strength as well. Janelle spun and sat down on the edge of the bed when she reached it, but Celes almost immediately pressed her lips to the blonde's, guiding Janelle down to the bed and tugging her legs up onto the mattress as well.

Celes leaned over Janelle, once again kissing and suckling the blonde's neck. Danica crawled into the bed and found a good position to plant kisses on Janelle's legs and tummy, the mingled scent of womanly arousal hovering around them all almost dizzying.

As she kissed her way down toward Janelle's toes, Danica saw Celes turn her attention to the archer's pert breasts, causing the blonde to writhe beneath them both. Danica let the tip of her tongue flicker over Janelle's toes, drawing a strong shudder and a moan. That moan quickly turned to a gasp when Celes' lips locked around Janelle's nipple.

Kissing her way back up Janelle's other leg after a dance of her tongue over the other set of toes, Danica reached out to slip a finger between Celes' legs. Even the light touch left her fingertip coated in the dark-haired witch's juices, and prompted Celes to release Janelle's nipple with a squealing gasp.

Danica placed a final kiss just above Janelle's knee, the last inch of skin she could reach on that leg without disturbing Celes, and then moved to recline next to the blonde, on the opposite side from Celes. She traced her fingers along Janelle's thighs, tantalizingly close to the blonde's curl-trimmed sex, and then let her finger slip into the wet heat.

"Ohh," Janelle groaned, her hips rising, seeking more of Danica's finger inside of her.

Danica pulled the digit free and scooted up on the bed. Celes paused in her kissing and sucking of Janelle's breast when Danica moved her wet finger close to her friend's lips. Celes sucked the finger clean with a deep moan, and almost immediately placed one of her knees between Janelle's. The blonde parted her legs without hesitation, allowing Celes to move between them. 

Celes teasingly kissed and traced her tongue close to where Janelle wanted it, even resisting a tug of the blonde's hand and a plaintive moan. Danica couldn't resist the sight of Janelle's stiff nipples, still glistening with Celes' saliva, and took the nearest one between her lips.

Danica sucked Janelle's nipples, letting her hands roam over the blonde's writhing body as Celes continued her torturous tease. Even without looking, Danica knew the instant that Celes' tongue touched Janelle's wet heat, because the blonde trembled violently and let out a warbling cry of bliss. Danica moaned around the nipple between her lips, giving it a little nip of her teeth for good measure. The taste of mother's milk only further fueled Danica's desire.

Janelle's breathing quickened, hot blasts that stirred Danica's hair as her lips and tongue continued to tease the pebbled tips of the blonde's breasts. Her hand crept between her legs to tease her folds, relieving some of the almost painful need growing there. Danica knew all too well what Janelle was feeling, having never experienced anyone else who knew a woman's needs like Celes did.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 10



"Ohh — g-g-gods!" Janelle cried out, and then tightly clamped her lips closed, grasping behind her for a pillow. She pulled it over her mouth, her body taut and trembling with building energy.

A muffled scream of release accompanied Janelle's tumble into orgasm. Danica's lips pulled free of the blonde's nipple with a wet pop as Janelle lurched from the waves of orgasmic energy flowing through her. Danica looked down to see Celes masterfully riding Janelle's bucking hips, continuing to lap up the flow of juices as she kept Janelle coming.

"Did I take too long to return?" Bear asked with amusement from the doorway of the bedroom, his eyes roving over the three nude forms entwined on the bed.

Danica licked her lips and let out a little laugh. "We were just catching up," she said as Bear approached to sit down the wine on a bedside table.

Still panting for breath, Janelle pulled the pillow from her mouth with a gasp. She shivered as Celes placed one final kiss on her hood, and then pulled the dark-haired witch up into a kiss, tasting her juices with a moan. As their lips parted, Janelle slipped two fingers into Celes' moist canal. "That was amazing. Can I return the favor?"

Celes groaned and nodded her head, her back arching to thrust her breasts toward the blonde.

Janelle glanced over at Danica and said, "Why don't you keep Bear occupied? I'd hate for him to feel left out."

Danica purred and crooked her finger, beckoning Bear to join her on the opposite side of the bed. Janelle pressed her lips to Celes' again, leaning forward to guide the brunette down onto her back at the same time.

As soon as he stepped within reach, Danica popped open the buttons on Bear's trousers and jerked them down, revealing his thick, erect cock. With another purr, she grasped the throbbing organ and used it as a handle to pull him toward her. He let out a loud groan as her lips wrapped around him while he kicked off his shoes and the cloth entangling his ankles. Once free of his trousers, he tugged off his shirt to reveal his sculpted, muscular chest.

Two soft moans prompted Danica to release Bear's big organ and turn to see Janelle's tongue dancing over Celes' nether lips. Danica lay back and looked up into Bear's eyes. "I need you deep inside me."

Bear let out a growl and wasted no time in mounting first the bed, and then Danica. "Ah — yes," she groaned as his thick cock penetrated her, stretching her wide. She could still see Janelle lapping Celes' glistening folds, and noticed something curious about Celes. The witch watched with fascination as Bear's big cock vanished into Danica's hot embrace.

Danica couldn't decide whether to watch Janelle driving her friend toward an explosion, Celes' arousing interest in Bear's pussy-slick cock, or the sight of his powerful muscles rippling as he thrust inside her. All served to build a bonfire in her loins as his thick shaft stretched her to a point just below uncomfortable, sending little shocks through her as his tip brushed into her cervix with each thrust.

Celes gasped and squealed through clenched teeth as an orgasm swelled within her, fighting to prevent the screams that threatened to escape her. The fresh rush of wetness spurred Janelle to even greater efforts, further swelling the hot itch of the inevitable within Celes.

"Does she taste good?" Bear grunted, the strain of holding off his own release obvious in his face.

"Mmm hmm," Janelle moaned in response, her tongue ceaselessly darting over Celes' swollen clit and moist folds.

"Faster," Danica growled, her fingers now rubbing her bud in rapid circles, her own climax quickly approaching.

Celes sat up with a choked gasp as her orgasm gripped her, her hands pulling Janelle against her quivering sex. A long, high-pitched moan tumbled from her lips as she trembled and came.

"Yes! Yes!" Danica hissed as she teetered on the edge of an explosion. Bear thrust into her with all his power, actually moving her closer to the headboard with each powerful stroke. As Janelle had before her, Danica grasped for a pillow, covering her mouth just as she screamed in ecstatic release.

Bear drove his cock home for a few more strokes, and then erupted in a gasping growl as he pulsed within Danica, filling her with a hot pool of his cream.

Danica rocked her hips, still stroking her clit with her finger as she stirred her tightly clenched depths with the throbbing organ buried inside her. At last, her energy dwindled, sapped by the power of her climax. Her arms fell to her side, her legs dropping to the mattress as well. With a sharp groan, Bear pulled free of her clinging depths, unable to endure the tight squeeze on his over-sensitive cock any longer.

Having pulled away from Celes when the woman coughed in the process of struggling to bring air into her lungs, Janelle couldn't resist the sight of her husband's cock, coated in Danica's juices and dangling ropy strands of his own cum.

"Oh gods," Bear groaned as Janelle slipped out of the bed and moved quickly toward him.

His gasp as she dropped to her knees to take him in her mouth was so high-pitched that it caused Danica to laugh. She felt Bear's cream seeping from her, dripping from her labia to the bed below as she laughed. Looking down at Celes, she saw her friend watching the steady flow of cum with fascination. On a whim, she asked, "Would you like a taste?"

Celes hesitated for a moment, but then summoned up her strength to sit up. Danica moaned as her friend moved between her legs. Celes' first taste was cautious, just the tip of her tongue slipping into the creamy offering. After that initial taste, her eyes widened in surprise.

"Oh yes, Celes," Danica gasped as the dark-haired witch devoured her, lapping up the mingled juices with hungry need. The sight of her friend lapping up Bear's cum combined with the feeling of Celes' talented tongue quickly drove Danica up her mountain of pleasure.

Danica came again, choking when her cry of release sounded out far too loud and startling her. She tightly clenched her mouth closed, her body trembling as though beset by an earthquake. Celes pulled away, bringing the juices coating her face to her lips with her finger and watching Danica come.

"S-so what did you think?" Danica asked when she managed to catch her breath.

"I don't know," Celes answered with an embarrassed laugh.

"I liked it," Janelle purred as she sat down, pulling Celes into a kiss.

"Me too," Danica moaned.

Now sitting on the floor, leaning against the bed, Bear let out another comically high-pitched gasp. The three women laughed, wrapping their arms around each other to enjoy the afterglow of their lovemaking.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Zoraster hissed as he erupted in his clone servant's mouth, holding her so that he pulsed his seed directly into her throat. The woman coughed and gagged around him, streams of her saliva and his cum flowing down his shaft.

He jerked the gagging woman off his cock and shoved her to the floor as he watched Danica and the others snuggling up together in his magical mirror. After a pair of quick breaths, he muttered, "It has been too long since I watched you at play, little rose."

Pulling his robe closed around him, he stroked his chin as he continued to watch. "How will you fare against the power and wiles of Meckataur's spawn, little rose? We shall see. You grow bold, my little rose. Perhaps now is the time to prepare my thorn for your side, even as you seek to become one in mine."

Standing up from his chair, he loosed a chuckle that steadily rose in volume and pitch. "Yes, let us educate you once again in the folly of crossing me, little rose." Another laugh accompanied the swish of his robes as he strode from the room to contact Ebonar, and through him, another secreted within the college at the Forge.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Oh, that was nearly too much," Danica groaned as she and Celes emerged within Celes' room in the manor. "I should have just used one of the teleport eggs. My legs feel like they're about to come out from under me after casting that spell."

"I told you to let me do it," Celes scolded.

"I know," Danica responded with a smile. "I didn't realize how much coming had taken out of me. I still have that image in my head of you lapping up Bear's cum."

"I can be curious, can't I?" Celes asked with a touch of irritation in her voice.

"I'm sorry, I shouldn't tease," Danica apologized.

"It's okay," Celes said, waving her hand in a dismissive gesture. A crooked grin then spread across her face as she said, "Maybe we should visit with Nara and Mara when we return tomorrow."

"Oh my. If you keep talking like that, I'm going to be even more exhausted."

A knock on the door interrupted any further banter, followed by Andrea's voice. "Are you home?"

"Yes, Andrea," Danica answered as she walked over to open the door. "What is it?"

"You should come talk to Marlena. She and your sister found out about a bunch of dangerous goblins about to attack..." Andrea paused and her brow furrowed as she tried to remember the unfamiliar name of the nation, "Normandal."

A curious, "Hmm," passed Danica's lips as she considered the news. "We'll tell you what we've found out too. We'll probably go back tomorrow, because we didn't really find out much today — at least about the demon." She turned to glance at Celes with a knowing grin.

"Behave," Celes said, crinkling her nose.

Andrea laughed. "Everyone is in the lab. We were about to go to bed when I felt Celes come home."

Danica stretched and yawned. "Let's go. I'll fall asleep if we wait much longer. I'm exhausted."

"Now goblins, too. Whole world is coming apart at the seams," Celes grumbled.

"Then we'll just have to stitch it back together again," Danica said as she walked out the door with her two friends.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Observe, Lord and Evil Master," Rexxus declared, sending a gout of flame before him and immediately turning a second power upon the fire. The crackling result formed a window to another place.

Within the pool of flame, a woman screamed. The man standing in front of her let out a rumbling growl, and then shifted position to reveal his fingers embedded in the woman's chest, surrounded by a quickly spreading dark stain.

In the demon's hunger, it lost control of the unfamiliar ability to take human shape. The creature's body twisted and crackled, revealing the yellow-skinned form of a P'ach demon. The creature's skin immediately secreted acid upon transforming, causing the clothing of the woman to tatter, falling away.

"A female human," Meckataur growled in disinterest.

"A witch, my Lord and Evil Master. A lowly practitioner with no natural powers, but a witch no less — and thus a threat to your minions."

"A threat easily destroyed without your useless deception," Meckataur sneered, leering at his minion.

"Not always, Master. Observe." Rexxus gestured toward the fiery disk, causing the scene to shift.

This time, two minor demons assaulted the lone woman who appeared. She hurled a small glass vial at one demon, and the creature exploded in a spray of goo. The second demon swooped in, leaping upon the woman and clamping down its terrible jaws on her throat.

Meckataur laughed, the sound booming and terrible. "Dead — as before. The minion destroyed is but an insect amongst my host."

Once again the scene shifted, revealing yet another woman, and yet another pair of demons. The blonde female stood confidently in the face of the demons, and stretched out her hands as Meckataur watched. Electricity arched from her fingers, destroying both demons before either could come close to her.

A third and fourth demon appeared, only to face the same fate as the previous two. A man appeared behind the woman to say, "Miranda, what is it?"

"Stay back, Sergel! I'll explain later, but stay in that room. You will be safe there." The witch blasted a fifth demon even as she finished speaking.

"I know. No demon may pass these wards uninvited," the man said, his face splitting into a grin. He crossed the threshold of the warded room, closing the distance between himself and the witch in a pair of quick strides.

The witch's eyes widened and she weakly turned to look over her shoulder in disbelief. The woman never completed the action, the light of life in her eyes vanishing before her head could completely turn.

The slowly transforming demon cackled, "A pity you invited me," and then pulled its bloodstained claws free of her body to lick them clean.

Meckataur's wings curled around him as he emitted a low rumble of consideration. "I abhor this weak tactic."

"But, you see the value?" Rexxus smiled, knowing he spoke the truth.

Meckataur ignored the question. "You may continue."

Rexxus banished his scrying flame with a bow. "Much blood shall flow from this decision, my Lord and Evil Master. Your will be done."

Knowing he had nearly pushed too far, Rexxus took his leave, vanishing in a crackle of flame. His plan would serve Meckataur well, destroying the many enemies of this world.

The demon knew it would serve him as well, once he subverted enough of the hellspawn to his will. In time, he would have the power to challenge the Devil.

Rexxus drooled in anticipation of that day.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Janelle brushed at her cheek, having felt something touch her in her sleep. She peered through the gloom, seeing nothing in the room. She shook her head and cuddled up against Bear's back, hoping to return to the dream she'd awakened from.

Borne in unseen fingers, two strands of hair danced through the air — one black and one auburn. The hairs streaked through the home, slipping beneath the door and out into the street.

Cobblestone and lantern light soon gave way to hard packed dirt roads and the silence of the night. Light once more emerged as the hairs passed between the bars of a window, streaking across a courtyard trodden flat by thousands of boots.

The unseen servant reached the college in less than a minute, coming to a halt before its summoner. The wizard reached out and plucked the two hairs from his invisible servant's fingers, dismissing the summoned creature with a thought.

A pair of steps brought the wizard to a large mirror the height of a man. Without breaking stride, the cowled man passed through the mirror to emerge within a small, featureless room.

Moving to stand before the door, the wizard smiled when the portal swung open before he could reach it.

Ebonar asked, "You have them?"

"Of course, Master," the wizard declared, holding up the two strands of hair.

Ebonar took the strands and said, "You will be rewarded. Return to your place."

"Yes, Master."

Ebonar examined the single hairs, one from Danica and one from Celes. He chuckled and thought, The Master will surely be pleased to regain the seed of his favorite playthings. He placed the hairs into a felt lined box, where they joined two other strands — one red and one blonde.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica yawned again. "I'll talk to my sister before Celes and I leave again tomorrow. I'll make sure she has an easy way to contact us if she needs our help. I'm half tempted to pick up everyone and show these goblins what their stinking cousins found out at the Forge."

Seeing Ashley open her mouth to protest, Danica cut her off. "I know," she said with a laugh. "You're right; the demons should be our priority. Others can handle goblins without our help."

"I was thinking of something," Celes said, looking toward Ashley, "Do your scrying spheres work on any kind of map?"

"They should," Ashley answered with a shrug.

Celes continued, "What if I drew a map of how the Forge is laid out?"

Ashley answered, "It should show demons that are present in the area you draw, in whatever level of detail you give it."

"That's what I'll be doing tomorrow while you're talking to your sister, Danica. I think I can draw a map well enough to figure out if there are any demons actually within the complex at the Forge, and in what area."

"Good idea. That could save us a lot of time and keep us from guessing." Danica stood up from her chair and said, "I'm going to bed before I pass out."

Murmurs of agreement greeted that statement as the other women rose from their chairs as well.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"I trust you are having a pleasurable evening, Camilla?"

The flail fell from Camilla's hand as she slowly turned to kneel before Zoraster.

Zoraster walked past the dark-haired woman and around the restraining stocks, running his hand over the shapely, lash-marked bottom of the woman held within the torturer's device. Camilla slowly spun on her knee, ensuring she continued to face Zoraster, while keeping her eyes downcast at all times.

Recognizing the blonde-haired woman as a novitiate he had allowed admittance because of her willingness to use her body to her advantage, Zoraster asked, "And what has this one done?"

"She hired an assassin to kill a rival student, Master," Camilla answered.

"Ah, yes." While a common and encouraged activity amongst the more advanced students to weed out the weak, such was discouraged in the lower ranks.

"M-master Zoraster? You... You live?"

Kneeling down and cupping the woman's chin in his hand, Zoraster smiled. "Indeed. Surely you did not believe that I could be slain?"

"Never, my Master."

"Her punishment?" Zoraster asked Camilla.

"She is mine for this night, but not to be permanently scarred."

"You walk the fine edge of that line," Zoraster observed, knowing that the lash marks on the woman's buttocks would require magical healing to avoid exactly such scarring. Looking back into the wizardess' eyes again, Zoraster said, "It is within my power to end your punishment."

"I am unworthy," the blonde said, casting her eyes downward.

Reaching around the pedestal supporting the stocks, Zoraster cupped the woman's generous, welt-covered breasts in his hands. "That is for me to determine."

"If it pleases you, Master."

"You will serve me in whatever capacity I require, without question? Your mind and body mine to do with as I will?" Zoraster pinched the blonde's small nipples painfully between his fingers and thumbs, smiling when she hid her pain and did not flinch.

"Yes, Master," the young woman said breathlessly, knowing the boons granted to those whom Zoraster found worthy of sharing his bed.

"Then your punishment is at an end, and your new service to me begins." A few spoken words released the bonds holding her, allowing the woman to slump to the ground, too weak to lift her nude body from the stones. "One will attend to your needs," Zoraster declared, and then cast a spell to teleport the woman to his estate in Varn.

Zoraster stood with a smile, staring at Camilla still kneeling at the foot of her torture device. The blonde's body would serve him, but not only in the capacity that she anticipated. Willing offerings of blood were required by many of the black spells that powered the devices he used to age clones, which he worked to replace after Danica destroyed most of those he had created.

"Your words upon our last meeting showed a disturbing lack of faith, Camilla."

"I was foolish, Master."

"Indeed. I have a task for you, Camilla. It is both a punishment for your foolishness, and a means to attain your greatest desire."

"I accept the first and welcome the second, my Master."

"As you have no choice in the matter, such is of little relevance. I expect you will find your previous brush with death a welcome learning experience very soon, my dear Camilla."

Seeing the color draining from Camilla's face prompted Zoraster to laugh — loud and long.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 10



Hope you're enjoying Book II of Danica's story. Thanks to Roust for his editing, as always. Big thanks to all of you reading and commenting on the tale as well. I only wish I could manage the time to post in a more timely fashion. I'm working on it ~_^

Please do vote and comment. That's all the payment we receive as free authors. That's what keeps us coming back for more.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 11



Author's Notes:

First things first: My apologies to those reading the story for the long dry spell. I'm using the special character for my dashes now, in hopes that this will make sure they come out properly. They displayed correctly in preview, but that doesn't always apply to what finally posts. If you see odd things where dashes should appear, then an edit is probably in the queue already.

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission.

© Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica waited a moment while the image of her sister in the mirror gave some instructions to another wizard that Danica didn't recognize. As soon as Devan turned back to the mirror with a sigh, Danica asked, "How much worse?"

"This isn't just a confederation of tribes. As near as we can tell, almost every tribe of goblins for hundreds of miles around is converging on the northern border of Normandal. They mean to invade in force and retake the whole country."

"What could have caused all those warring tribes to put aside their differences?"

Devan answered, "It has to be a goblin that's convinced them he's a King. Nothing else could overcome all the generational hatred between those tribes. There are some places we can't even scry yet, because there are so many shaman and mages lurking around out there."

While a large gathering of goblins would certainly have many shaman, more than one mage was a disturbing prospect. Goblin mages were few and limited in their magical ability, but they were extremely cunning — and just as vicious as the rest of their kind. "Is there anything we can do?"

"I think we have it under control. Thakkor has troops on the march right now, and I'm sending some wizards to back them up. Normandal has its own army, and they've been building up to support us. Some of our green troops could use the combat experience, so it might actually be a blessing."

"Well, just use the message bowl if you need anything," Danica said. "I'll contact you as soon as I find a letter."

Devan let out a snort that was part irritation, and part amusement. "It would be a lot easier if your picky valley would just let me use my magic to talk to you when I wanted to."

Danica shrugged apologetically. "This place will listen to us sometimes, but it simply won't let in anyone else's magic most of the time."

Devan's image turned to look away from the mirror for a moment. She nodded to someone unseen and pointed toward something. When she turned back to the mirror again, she said, "I really need to go, Sis."

"Okay. I love you. Be careful."

"You too, Danica. Love you."

Danica let the magic of her mirror lapse as Devan stepped out of her field of vision.

Celes requested, "Come take a look at this, Danica."

Danica walked over to the table and looked at the drawing, a good representation of the central compound of the Forge. "You decided against putting the fortress, the college, and everything else in there?"

"I'm going with Janelle's suspicion. If this Mache is our demon, then we'll draw a tighter noose around him this way."

"Fair enough," Danica agreed as she sat down to prepare her message bowl, pen, and paper.

Ashley stood holding her magical scrying charm over Celes' map. "Ready?"

Danica picked up her pen, ready to write a note and send it to Janelle as soon as Ashley's magic revealed the location of the demon. She nodded, and then concentrated on the map.

Ashley let the earthen sphere fall. A bright red spot appeared within one of the barracks. Danica quickly penned her note and placed it in the message bowl.

Danica's note had barely vanished before the reply from Janelle appeared. Danica opened the note and read, "It's him, or someone very close to him. There's only one group in that barracks right now."

Celes stood and straightened her skirt. "Let's go see what we can learn about him, then."

Noticing that the skirt hugged Celes' curves to good effect, as did her blouse, Danica said, "You look beautiful. Any special reason you aren't wearing your robes?"

"Thank you," Celes responded. "I just decided that it was time to stop looking frumpy when I woke up this morning. I was acting like I was still under Zoraster's curse, with no reason to care how I looked."

"I like it," Andrea said, and then laughed when her tone sounded far more naughty than she'd intended. Ashley and Danica chuckled as well.

"I have my powers and all my magical trinkets, anyway. If I need my Art, I can use spells that don't need everything I carry around in my robe pockets."

Marlena walked in the room and said, "You might consider coming home early to work on the girls' toys. They're growing a bit impatient."

Danica nodded and walked over to her worktable. "I'll take my notes with me. If I have any spare time, I'll work on the spells while I'm gone."

Celes clapped her hands and declared, "Let's go then. You were right; I did need to get out."

Catching a flash of thought from her friend about the dark-haired sisters Nara and Mara, Danica hid a grin as she followed Celes out of the room.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Camilla let out a croak of pain as the needle pierced her flesh.

Slipping the needle free of her hood, Zoraster quickly replaced it with the ring lying on the table between her splayed legs. The open ends of the ring joined in a flash of magic.

Zoraster stepped back to admire his work, passing the needle to the wickedly smiling blonde woman at his side. Her wounds from Camilla's torture now healed, she took great pleasure in seeing the sadistic woman's pain.

Camilla's nipples glowed angry red, silver rings passing through the nubs of flesh. A third ring pierced her navel, set with a fire agate. Twin rings set with sapphires dangled from her labia. The onyx ring through her hood completed the set.

Enchanted with Zoraster's Art, the jewelry would provide a formidable defense against nearly any form of magic, mimicking Danica's collection. Naturally, the baubles would provide no protection from his magic.

Similarly, the runic structures that would soon adorn her flesh would likewise fail to respond in his presence, but would otherwise rival his own — still incomplete — rune tattoos. Zoraster needed a weapon that could counter the abilities of Danica and the rest of her brood of females.

Camilla would be that weapon.

To his surprise, she did not immediately cover the stinging portions of her anatomy when he released her from the magical bonds securing her to the table. Seeing the look in her eyes, Zorsater smiled and nodded his head. "You can feel the power, can you not?"

"Yes, Master Zoraster," Camilla croaked in a mixture of pain and awe.

"This is but the beginning." He waved his hand in a sweeping, dismissive gesture and ordered her, "Go."

Wincing with each step, Camilla hurried to obey the command.

Zoraster glanced at his assistant and asked, "Did you enjoy that, my dear?"

"Yes, Master Zoraster," she replied with smug enthusiasm.

He curled his fingers around her wrists, guiding her to place her hands upon the table Camilla had just vacated. She didn't resist him, but instead panted in anticipation. She let out a gasp of surprise when his magic shredded her robe and panties, letting the cloth fall in ragged strips to the floor. This, she followed with a moan as she looked over her shoulder to see him tug on the belt of his robe.

Zoraster let out a hiss of satisfaction as his engorged manhood pierced into her saturated sex.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Nara shook her head, her long black tresses swaying. "I have not penetrated his defenses. I fear to reveal my power to him prematurely. For now, he could only know that something seeks to enter his mind — not what or whom."

"I know little of witchcraft," Terran admitted. "Could your magic tell us more?"

"Probably," Celes answered. "I'd have to find the right spell, and he'd know what I was doing — same as Nara."

Terran's strong thoughts about Celes drifted to Danica, prompting her to plan a private discussion with the wizard as soon as possible. Now that he knew her curse was responsible for her refusal to join in the sexual fellowship the group had once shared, desire surged within him. He had no way of knowing that Celes would never return that feeling.

Danica let out a sigh of frustration and said, "We may need to risk one or the other if we can't find out what we need to know some other way."

"It may be possible to pierce his defenses when he is distracted without the danger of him discovering the source," Nara suggested.

"When he's asleep?" Danica asked.

"Perhaps, but he appears to sleep little," Nara responded.

"At least we know it's him," Danica said with little conviction.

Celes smoothed back her hair and said, "We'll just have to keep an eye on him and see if he slips up. I'll see if there's anything in my family book."

"I think I'm going to see if I can't learn anything from the people around him," Danica mused. "They may have noticed something important that they don't even realize."

"Always possible," Celes said.

Nara stood up from her chair and said, "I'll speak with Janelle and Venaru to let them know what we're doing."

Danica stood as well, turning toward Terran. "Could I talk to you for a few minutes, Terran?" "Of course," he said with a smile, rising as well.

Danica noticed that he glanced at Celes as he stood, and decided that she'd picked a perfect time to break the bad news to him — before he found out in a far more embarrassing manner.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Surprised she can manage to walk upright with those tits.

Bet if you pounded that hard enough that those tits bouncing around would black both her eyes.

Danica pulled her thoughts away from the two young men she'd singled out as cohorts of Mache. I'm not going to learn anything from them at this point. She knew it was her own fault. Distracted by the sight of all the well-muscled, shirtless men wrestling, she'd not controlled her powers as well as she should have. Though the men couldn't have known that she was listening in on their thoughts, they'd sensed something and turned to look right at her.

The image of her in the two men's minds immediately told Danica that she'd made a mistake. Dressed in a blouse and skirt, she was a sharp contrast to the few serviceably dressed women training here. Her brassiere presented her breasts in a way that almost challenged men not to look at her, and her skirt showed off long expanses of smooth leg.

The men continued to glance her way frequently, though they did their best to hide such from the eyes of their watchful instructors. Soon enough, the other men noticed, and Danica found at least one pair of eyes focused on her every second.

The attention from all the attractive men did have an effect on her, however. Already tingling from observing them, she couldn't help but react to the sexual thoughts and feelings assaulting her. Her nipples stiffened beneath her bra, and she felt the tingling of her sex moistening.

A crooked little grin tugged at the corners of her mouth as arousal crept through her. I could probably browse their thoughts like a library for as long as I wanted if I fulfilled their fantasies.

For a few seconds, she indulged in that fantasy, feeling her passions rising. Then, a dark-haired man turned to grin at her lecherously. Danica's stomach soured as an image of Zoraster's face superimposed itself over the leering man's face.

Danica spun on her heel and swallowed, fighting to keep her breakfast where it belonged. What was I thinking? Gods, I'm acting like I'm still Zoraster's toy, forced to use my body to serve his insane plans. How much did he twist me?

Memories of her dance and the following night with the Pharaoh in Osiramun reminded her that this was not the first time she'd considered — and acted — upon those impulses before. No matter how good the cause, she'd taken the easy route and used her body as a weapon — exactly as Zoraster had taught her.

Nauseated and trembling, Danica crossed her arms over her breasts to hide them. She didn't look at anyone around her as she hurried back to the privacy of the college.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Danica? Are you alright?"

Danica narrowed her eyes against the light intruding from the open door, letting out a long sigh. "Not really."

Celes closed the door and waited for her eyes to adjust to the dim illumination filtering in around the doorframe. "Terran said that you came back looking distraught. What happened?"

"I just realized something about myself that I'm a little frightened of — and disgusted by."

Now able to discern her surroundings well enough to do so, Celes crossed the room to sit down next to Danica on the bed. "You know I'm here if you need to talk."

"I know. I just needed some time to come to grips with it."

Hearing the distinct sound of depression in Danica's tone, Celes reached out and took her friend's hand. "Is it my turn to remind you that hope is the one thing that nobody can take away from you?"

A slight smile crossed Danica's face as she remembered all the times that she and Celes had bolstered each other's spirits during their captivity to Zoraster. Whenever she reached the limits of her endurance and willpower, Celes had always provided the anchor of strength necessary to endure. The same held true when the harsh reality of Celes' curse had threatened to sap her will to go on. "I guess so," Danica replied, feeling a tear running down her cheek.

Though there was no way Celes could have seen it in the faint light, the witch reached up to brush away the unseen tear. "So talk to me."

Danica sighed, and then took a deep breath. "I'd found a couple of Mache's puppies, and I was trying to see if I could learn anything from them with my mental powers. I was distracted, and they managed to feel something. They looked right at me and their heads filled with lecherous thoughts that drowned out everything else."

"You have that effect on me too, sometimes," Celes interjected in a sympathetic tone, with just a touch of amusement.

Danica's smile grew a little wider for a moment, and then turned downward again. "I started thinking that I could probably learn anything I wanted if I took one of them off to some out of the way place and coaxed all of the blood out of their brain to somewhere else. One second I was so hot that I felt fit to burst, and then the next I realized what I was considering."

Now, well understanding what Danica was thinking, Celes responded, "Considering — that's the important part. You didn't."

"But I have. I remember seeing it in your eyes now, when I talked about Pharaoh. I'm starting to wonder if I ever really escaped Zoraster at all, or whether I'm just fooling myself."

"The madman played on your own desires, Danica. He made you do things that you wouldn't normally do, but he tapped into your unconscious desires to do it. Somewhere, deep down, we all want to throw the rules away and just do what's easy or enjoyable. We all make mistakes, Dearie."

"I just wonder if I can avoid making those mistakes over and over again. I hate it, but I enjoyed all the attention that letting go brought. On top of that, I fight the Awakening every waking moment. From what I remember of them, I fight it in my dreams too. I feel like my desires are some sort of monster that's always threatening to consume me."

"But it doesn't," Celes countered and squeezed her auburn-haired friend's hand. "You have a burden that I can't even begin to understand. Despite that, you still do the right thing. Even when you don't, you do your best to make up for it. You did that even when Zoraster had you in his web, and he punished you dearly for it.

"Who did you hurt when you went to Pharaoh? You? Him? Maybe there was another way, but what you did surely made a mess of whatever Zoraster had planned there. Nothing ill came of it. If you're going to make a mistake, that's not a bad way to go about it."

"I can't even think straight," Danica lamented. "A lot of good I'm going to be right now."

"Why don't you go back to the manor and see about catching up on the girls' toys and the cottages? Wrap yourself in your magic until you're ready to handle this. It always seems to straighten out your head."

"We need to find out..."

Celes put her finger over Danica's lips to cut her off. "Nara can go peeking into heads. We have plenty of eyes to keep watch. Mara, Terran, and I can handle any magic. We can do this, Danica. You need to worry about you right now."

"You're probably right."

"I know I'm right. Now get along." Celes leaned in and tenderly kissed her friend.

Danica melted into the kiss, and only noticed the little light Celes had conjured once she opened her eyes. "How did you do that?"

Celes grinned and said, "A little trick I found in my book. Go on, now. The girls will start getting fidgety soon, and we want them to keep doing their part. They need the reward right now."

"See you at home tonight?"

"Aye, and I'd better find you in the lab or the bed when I get there."

Danica chuckled, genuinely feeling a little better. "I promise."

Celes slipped into the brogue she'd used when she and Danica first met as Danica stood to teleport home. "Ye'd best bet I'll be holdin' ye to it, Dearie."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Zoraster carefully closed the box containing four hairs — two red, one pale blonde, and one raven-dark. He placed the ornate box in a pocket of his robe and stood. "Excellent, Ebonar. Now, let us examine the chambers."

Ebonar bowed his head slightly in deference to his Master. "Of course, Master. All five chambers should be in place by the time we reach your laboratory."

Zoraster held out his hand to his blonde assistant, one of the few true living beings that inhabited his hidden sanctuary. "Come, Caterina. You will play an important part in bringing this great magic to fruition. You should see what your aid is to create."

"Of course, Master," Caterina responded, taking the offered hand.

A hungry smile spread across Ebonar's face as he took notice of the woman for the first time. Zoraster had given the woman a gown of the finest, most transparent silk to wear. The form-fitting material left absolutely nothing to the imagination, and Caterina may as well have glided on his arm unclad.

The Archmage led his two servants through the halls of his grand estate, once more restored to glory by the tireless hands of the dead and his clone slaves. Caterina winced, as she always did, upon passing through the false wall that concealed a steep, descending staircase hewn from the very bones of the world by Zoraster's magic. Better acquainted with his Master's powers, Ebonar stepped through the wall confidently.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 11



Hundreds of feet below the world above, Zoraster's vast personal laboratory spread in all directions. Bright magical lights illuminated the immense library, the center of the underground lair. Hidden amongst the shelves were doorways leading to dozens of chambers, each with its own purpose. Angry runes of warding glowed above many of the doorways, and the sense of power Ebonar felt let him know that even he would be barred from entering some of those chambers.

Caterina shivered as she stepped into the room that would house the necessities of Zoraster's cloning magic. A half dozen animated corpses, the horrible wounds that had slain them plain to see, placed the last of five chambers upon the pedestal prepared for it. Five more pedestals awaited their own chambers, which would arrive as soon as Ebonar replaced the wizards that now functioned as undead pack mules. Zoraster refused to allow any other to live with the knowledge of even the preparatory spells of his cloning magic.

Zoraster released Caterina's hand and moved to examine the nearest chamber. With both the naked eye and his Art, he carefully searched for even the slightest imperfection. A similar inspection of the other four chambers followed, culminating in an amused laugh from Zoraster as he clapped his hands in satisfaction.

"Excellent. I should be able to begin in mere days. You have done well, Ebonar. I trust you are prepared to take action in Normandal?"

"Of course, Master. Even now, Egoria's troops cross the border and seek a suitable camp. Our agents are in place."

"Maintain my empire as I regain that which was lost," Zoraster ordered by way of dismissal.

"It will be done, Master," Ebonar responded as he gestured to the six undead wizards. As soon as the walking corpses gathered around him, he vanished.

Zoraster walked to a large glass tube atop a rune-scribed pedestal and stroked it with his hand. "Come Caterina, we shall begin." He then walked to the edge of the room and the large stone table there as his assistant followed.

Pouches, bowls, and boxes covered the table, surrounding a silver bowl covered in spidery sigils of magic and a small glimmering knife. Zoraster took up both bowl and knife, and then turned back to Caterina.

The blonde shed her silken gown and took a deep breath as Zoraster held out the knife to her. She heard the sound of approaching footsteps, but did not turn to see who approached. She knew it was either a clone servant or one of the dead. As she accepted the knife, Caterina took a deep breath to calm her nerves. The footsteps ceased, and she could sense the presence of someone behind her. To her relief, she didn't smell the corruption of death.

Zoraster nodded and reached out to stroke the swell of her left breast above the nipple. "Fear not, my magic will ensure that the blade leaves no mark upon you. The momentary pain will fade immediately in the ecstasy of the magic."

"I am ready, Master."

"Good," Zoraster responded, and then fell into his magic. The spells he cast were far beyond her capability, so he had no fear of her hearing the words and seeing the gestures. She could never know that, however. The fear that she might meet an end such as those of the six corpses that had just vacated the chamber would keep her tractable.

Motes of magical power, puffs of smoke, and crackles of energy emerged from the bowl as the Archmage added the necessary ingredients and worked his Art. Finally, only one element remained to bring the spell to completion.

Caterina took up the knife even as Zoraster moved the fog-filled bowl beneath her breast. She swallowed, and then drew the razor sharp blade over the swell of her breast.

As the blood flowed across her smooth skin, Caterina's hands dropped to her side and the blade fell to the floor from her nerveless fingers. She shuddered and gasped as the clone servant behind her thrust his arms beneath hers to support her. Her blood dripped from her now stiff nipple into the bowl, each drop causing an eruption of the swirling fog within the container.

Caterina's head snapped back to thump into the muscled chest of the clone and she cried out as the ecstasy of the magic overwhelmed her. Untouched, she climaxed — her juices dripping from her nether lips even as her blood trickled into the bowl.

At last, the fog in the bowl took on the crimson hue of blood, and Zoraster passed his hand over Caterina's breast, whispering words of magic. As his hand covered the wound, a flash of brilliant red light emerged. Caterina let out a sharp squeal as her body shuddered in climax once more.

When Zoraster moved his hand, the wound had vanished, leaving her skin smooth and unmarred, but still stained with her blood. Leaving his assistant still lurching from the magical orgasm in the clone's arms, Zoraster swiftly crossed the room to the glass tube.

More words of magic passed Zoraster's lips as he held the bowl over the tube, tipping it as soon as he completed the chant. Though the bowl could not possibly hold enough liquid to do so, it impossibly filled the large glass container with swirling, ruddy liquid. A final word from Zoraster completed the magic, causing the liquid to lose its bloody color, becoming clear as water.

The runes on the base of the tube glowed with brilliant yellow light, and the liquid within bubbled. Zoraster returned the now empty bowl to the table in front of the still gasping Caterina, and then retrieved the box Ebonar had delivered from his robe pocket.

He stroked the box containing hairs from Danica, Celes, Andrea, and Marlena. Once all the apparatus in this room were enchanted, those hairs would provide the necessary catalyst to clone the women. "I will possess you again," he growled, and then laughed.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica doggedly concentrated on her work, creating the elements of Edna's cottage from tiny pieces of balsa, and then fitting them in place. She cast the necessary preparatory spells as required, and the cottage quickly took shape. On the other side of the table from where she worked, Ashley's cottage sat ready to accept the whole of Danica's Art. She had finished it earlier, and the feeling of accomplishment had helped her tremendously.

Her focus on the magical crafting helped Danica push her troubling thoughts to the back of her mind. She didn't run from them, but instead let her subconscious mind mull over the unwelcome revelation that had crashed down on her earlier in the day. The technique had served her well during her enslavement to Zoraster, and she prayed it did so now.

Danica knew that Celes had managed to pass word to her friends back at the manor, letting them know that she needed solitude. Edna kept the girls busy, while Andrea, Marlena, and Ashley took turns making sure that Danica always had a full cup of water and some fruit to snack on at her side. Marlena also assisted in keeping Danica's stores of spell components prepared so that she didn't need to leave her worktable.

Each silently let her know that understanding ears were available if she needed to talk. Danica's empathic powers enhanced the smiles and small gestures of friendship to remind her that even though she sought solitude, there was no need for her to face anything alone. The strong desire to help her in any way touched Danica each time someone visited her for a few moments as she worked.

With her emotions quiet and her passion for creation filling her, Danica continued her work in peace.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Celes could tell from the looks on Nara and Mara's faces that the sisters had fared no better than anyone else in their quest to learn more about Mache.

Nara smoothed back her long dark hair and sighed. "The man has remarkable resistance to the powers of the mind. I can discern nothing from discrete touches, and if I push harder, he notices."

"He is just as sensitive to magic," Nara added.

"I don't think we're going to find out anything without him knowing about it," Celes grumbled while tapping her nails on the table in front of her. "I think we're just going to have to accept the risk in confronting him directly." She then turned toward Janelle and asked, "Have you talked to the Commander?"

"He trusts our judgment," the blonde archer replied.

"At least we don't have to worry about stirring up waves there, then." Celes slapped the table to punctuate the statement.

"How is Danica?" Janelle asked.

"She'll be fine. She's been through far worse, believe me. I talked to Andrea, and she said that Danica hasn't left the lab. She's hard at work, which is how she gets through things like what she's struggling with."

"So what do we do?" Bear asked, shrugging his massive shoulders. "Even with the Commander's approval, it isn't going to look good if we just walk up and start accusing a trainee of being a demon."

"We need to get him away from everyone else," Celes suggested.

Janelle cocked her head for a moment, having thought she heard her child. When she heard nothing further, she said, "I could call in some favors."

Celes yawned and rubbed her eyes. "Maybe we should all just sleep on it. He's obviously going nowhere. I'll have another chat with Edna and Ashley. Maybe they've come up with something new. They know far more about the craft than I do."

Murmurs of agreement sounded from the gathered friends, as the hour was growing late.

"Off to bed with us all, then." Celes stood, stretched, and then smoothed out her robe.

A wail from down the hall brought a chuckle to Janelle's lips. "How did I know that was going to happen?"

Bear kissed his wife and stood. "Go lie down. I'll change him and bring him in to nurse."

"You are such a dear," Janelle sighed.

Celes hugged the lithe blonde as Janelle rose to seek her bed. She then bid farewell to the remainder of her gathered friends and rode the wings of magic back to the manor.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica sat back with a satisfied sigh, knowing that she couldn't keep working tonight. She was simply too tired to continue the detailed work without making mistakes.

With Edna's cottage half finished, Danica thought that she could probably finish it tomorrow, enchant both of them the next day, and then move on to the girls' toys. She chuckled when she realized it was but a fraction of the list she'd filed away in her head of magic items she wanted to make. Even with Damian taking on some of the projects, she still had a lot of work ahead of her.

"You have been busy," Celes called out from the doorway of the lab. She walked over and sat down to examine Ashley's completed cottage. "I'm surprised you're using balsa for such strong enchantments. I'd think that you'd need to use something more substantial."

"It's the paint. There's a fortune in powdered gems and precious metal dust in there."

Celes let out a conspiratorial chuckle. "Good thing we took everything we could carry when we thumbed our noses at Zoraster."

"I think I can finish Edna's tomorrow if I keep up this pace. I want both of the cottages done before I enchant the girls' toys. I think Edna will probably need somewhere quiet to escape to."

"You surely have the right of it there. They're excited something fierce, and I know what your creations can do." Celes shivered and smiled.

Danica laughed, knowing that Celes' reaction was absolutely honest. She then took a sip of water and sighed. "Did you find out anything today?"

"Just that we're not going to find out anything without tipping our hand. I think we're going to have to confront him. Janelle has some ideas. How are you?"

Danica shrugged. "Okay. I think I need to stay focused on my work for a little while longer."

"As long as you need — you know that. I have Janelle and the others to back me up, if I need them."

Danica yawned and stretched — almost too far. "I think I need to get to bed."

"Can't argue with you there, Dearie. Get along with you. I'm going to go catch up with what else has been going on here. I've got a second wind."

Danica nodded and stood up. She almost immediately winced and rubbed her backside. "No matter how comfortable a chair is, you can still sit in it too long."

"Have a soak before you go to bed," Celes suggested as she rose. "I'll see you in the morning before I leave."

The two friends bid each other goodnight and went their separate ways. Celes glanced over her shoulder at Danica before continuing toward the sitting room where she heard the sound of conversation, and pursed her lips in concern. Danica did look better, but she certainly hadn't recovered from her emotional turmoil just yet. Give her time.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

A soldier poked the campfire to stir up the flames against the deepening darkness and remarked, "Not much of a war so far."

A gruff laugh preceded the second soldier's answer. "We just crossed the border. Fuck, we ain't even made it to a town yet. The goblins are all up north."

The first soldier groaned and stood up. "I'm losing the battle with the chuckwagon, I can tell you that. I'm off to the latrine."

"We may as well tell the watch to bed down. Nothing with a nose will come within a hundred miles of us by the time you get done stinkin' up the place."

"Well then, we won't need a wizard when we get to the war. I'll load up on beans and beer and blow every goblin straight to the hells." He laughed and walked off to the latrine, hidden behind some bushes.

A minute or so later, the sound of grunts and groans emerging from the bushes grew urgent enough to draw the second soldier's attention. "Gods, Wessel — are you dyin'?" He waited a few seconds and noticed that the sound ceased. "Wessel?"

Wessel emerged, synching up his belt, just as his fellow soldier stood to go check on him. "That's got to be some sort of record," he quipped and patted his stomach.

The other soldier shook his head and sat down. "I hope the wind don't change."

Wessel plopped down with a laugh. "If it does, you'll be dead before you can worry about it."

The pair shared a chuckle and made ready to bed down until their shift on watch.

Beyond the bushes, the dried husk of a man vanished into the darkness.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Glad to see someone managing some relaxation." Celes sat down with a thump on one of the benches surrounding the heated tub where Andrea and Ashley lounged.

"Do you want to join us?" Andrea asked, "You look like you could use a soak to wind down."

Celes shook her head. "No, I'm going to go practice with my powers while I'm still irritable."

Ashley smoothed water out of her dark red hair. "We didn't really find anything new today."

Celes nodded in understanding. "Edna told me. I think we're just going to have to poke him and see what happens. We're sleeping on it so that we can think about it fresh tomorrow."

"How's Danica?"

Celes shrugged her shoulders in response to Ashley's question and offered a sad smile. "She's better, but she needs some time to work through this. She still has a lot of demons, and I'm sure that I don't even know them all. What I know is bad enough." 

"Sure you don't want to join us?" Andrea asked again.

"No, I'm off to toss rocks around and irritate the wildlife. I need to get a good grip on that power. Wake me if I don't get up in time to help with breakfast."

With that, Celes walked toward the rear entrance of the manor to struggle with her telekinetic power.

Ashley straightened as Andrea sighed. A quick glance at Andrea revealed the reason for the sensation she felt. "This water is getting a little warm." She nodded toward Andrea's fingers, which the blonde was absently teasing over her right nipple. "Exactly what are you thinking about?"

Color rose in Andrea's cheeks as she sheepishly looked down at her hand. "I was hoping Celes would relax a little. I hate seeing her so stressed. When I started thinking about that — well..."

Both women started as a warm current swirled around their bodies. "Is it supposed to do that?" Ashley asked.

Andrea shook her head in the negative. "Not that I know of."

A curious "Hmn," slipped from Ashley's lips as a possibility dawned on her. "Did I happen to enter into any of those thoughts you were having when the water was heating up?" Her voice carried just a hint of amusement, mingled with a touch of sultry suggestion.

Once again, the water warmed noticeably, and a current of water curled around Ashley's body, seemingly paying a lot of attention to intimate portions of her anatomy. Andrea's twitch indicated to the redheaded witch that the blonde had experienced much the same thing.

"Andrea, I think it's your powers — arousal and embarrassment. I don't think they're just triggering your powers this time, though. I think they're guiding them." The redhead slid closer and whispered, "Concentrate on it."

Ashley gasped as a strong swirl of warm water caressed her folds and actually pushed up on her breasts. Andrea leaned forward and opened her eyes wide in surprise at nearly the same moment.

Andrea let out a sharp, high-pitched moan and bent one of her knees, parting her legs. She then drew in a deep breath and licked her lips. With the water pushing against her with growing pressure, Ashley leaned back and spread her knees wide.

The water of the tub roiled as Andrea's power worked upon it, forming whirlpools on the surface that aimed conspicuously into the V of both women's legs. The heat increased, but not uncomfortably so, adding to the sensation of the water jets.

"Oh yes," Ashley gasped as her arousal built. The stream of water rushed against her folds, causing her labia to quiver. It pushed upward on her hood, exposing her clit to the onslaught as well.

Next to her, Andrea whimpered as every inch of her sex tingled from the relentless flow of warm water. On impulse, she sat up and turned until she could press her lips to Ashley's. The redheaded witch passionately returned the kiss, moaning into it as the whirling water drove her toward orgasm.

Andrea pulled away from Ashley's lips with a gasp and closed her eyes to pant from the building pressure of her own impending climax. The water now whirled in the tub so quickly that Ashley couldn't even see below the surface. A few seconds later, she too closed her eyes and opened her mouth in a silent scream as the itch and pressure in her loins reached a crescendo that took her breath away.

The strength of the watery phallus overcame both women's resistance, penetrating them with pulsing thrusts of energy. Ashley wriggled and writhed, and yet the water targeted her sex without fail. She felt full, and yet a thousand tingles stimulated every inch of her.

The redhead finally gave voice to her ecstasy as the tightly coiled energy within her released. She let out a squealing blast of air, followed by a series of gasping breaths and whimpers as the water relentlessly teased her sensitive flesh.

"A-a-a-andrea," she managed to articulate as the continuing stimulation threatened to overwhelm her. She had no more than forced the word past her lips before a second, equally strong wave of orgasm contorted her body.

The blonde didn't hear her cry, however. On the verge of an explosion as well, she too writhed in the water, her powers directing the water subconsciously. Her teeth clenched and she groaned from the itch within her, which had transformed into an electric buzz of building energy. The blonde thrust her hips toward the liquid column, triggering her release.

The tub erupted like a massive fountain, spraying steaming water all across the room in a cascade as Andrea screamed in orgasm.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

In a dozen places at the remote edges of the Egorian army's camps, Ebonar's wizards replaced their carefully chosen targets with Zoraster's Arians. Ebonar had selected each man from the possibilities presented to him by determining which were the least remarkable. All were of average skill, average looks, low rank, and had few connections outside the men in their units.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 11



It was a bold move — a last-minute order from Zoraster to his proxy. Ebonar smiled, realizing the vast potential presented by the unique golem soldiers. Should the creatures prove capable of remaining undiscovered, it might be possible to maneuver them into positions of great advantage.

A low hum, inaudible to anyone save Zoraster and his surrogate, alerted Ebonar to glance at another mirror. A wide, smug grin spread across his face as he watched yet another element of Zoraster's plan moving toward fruition. Tortfird's hands liberally explored the priestess' body, and she made no move to resist him. Soon enough, her corruption would be complete. The goddess Areolene would not shun her servant for this weakness, however. Such was critical to Zoraster's designs upon the woman, an important step in his plan.

In the other mirrors around the room, warriors — both human and inhuman — gathered and trained. The drums of war sounded, and the men of war answered.

Ebonar gestured to the mirrors with a great sweep of his hand, causing all the images to vanish. He then turned and left the room to seek a woman to sate the arousal his anticipation of things to come brought with it.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****} 

Celes rushed into the room at the same time as a sleepy-eyed Marlena stumbled in through another doorway. Seeing her sister witches writhing in the half-full tub, panic welled up within her. Almost as soon as the feeling drove her toward the tub at a near run, the connection she shared with Andrea and Ashley revealed to her that her first impression was wrong.

"What happened? Was there an attack?" Marlena asked, rubbing her eyes and shaking her head in an attempt to wake up.

Celes slowed and chuckled, now realizing that the apparently pained writhing of the blonde and redhead in the tub was actually something far different. Both women sought contact with each other, and their hands roamed over their own flushed bodies. "No attack, but the question about what happened is one I'd like to hear myself."

Ashley tried to answer, but couldn't catch enough breath to do more than pant. Andrea was in no better condition. Edna hurried into the room a moment later, pursing her lips to fight a grin as she too recognized that the apparent chaos was not the result of something sinister. She turned to fetch something before completely entering the room.

"Go on back to bed, Marlena," Celes laughed. "I'll let you know when you wake up. There's nothing to worry about."

With her wits still buried in a fog of sleep, Marlena nodded and unsteadily walked back toward her room.

Edna reentered the room as Marlena left, carrying two mugs of water. She took a seat next to Celes, and the two shared amused smiles. When the two witches in the tub managed to catch their breath, Celes took the mugs and handed them to the women.

"Oh my," Andrea gasped after she took a long pull from the mug.

Edna glanced toward the hall, and then tugged on Celes' robe. "Should I go check on Danica?"

Celes shook her head. "She probably used magic to quiet her room. She trusts her wards. They would have awakened her if we needed her." She then glanced at the two blushing witches and said, "Speaking of what happened?"

Ashley weakly tilted her head toward Andrea. "She discovered a new facet of her power."

"I expected as much," Celes chuckled.

Edna stood and clapped her hand on her leg. "Why don't we all talk about it in the morning?" She then glanced toward the doorway, where a pair of the nightgown-clad girls peeked into the bath. The elder witch had little doubt that the remaining ten were just out of sight. "Everything's all right. Go on back to bed, girls." She waved them back toward their wing of the manor as she walked toward them.

Celes squinted at a cabinet across the room and flipped one finger, her power opening the door upon which she concentrated. She then raised her hand palm up, and caused two dry towels to hover across the room to her waiting hand, to replace the sodden ones next to the tub. "You two dry off. I'll take care of this mess."

"Sorry," Andrea sheepishly apologized.

"We're discovering new powers very quickly," Ashley observed as she climbed out of the tub and took one of the towels.

Celes' brow furrowed as she thought about the events transpiring the world over. "We're probably going to need them."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Edna supervised the girls' experiment with breakfast, and the smells drifting from the kitchen seemed to indicate that things were going well.

"That's as close as I can come to describing it," Ashley said, and then shivered from the memory of the night before in the tub.

Celes nodded and took a sip of her coffee. "Well, that certainly explains the mess, and the state the pair of you were in when we found you."

"I think I hear Danica stirring," Marlena interjected. "I'll go make her a cup of coffee."

"You should probably have a go at summoning up that new power." Celes stood and pulled a pitcher of water to the center of the table.

Andrea blushed. "I don't want to make a mess again."

Ashley patted the blonde witch's leg and winked. "Then keep it under control."

"The girls are making breakfast. It won't kill us to pick up a mop," Celes scoffed, waving her hand in a dismissive gesture.

With apprehension in her face, Andrea responded,"Well — okay."

She concentrated on the pitcher, staring hard at the water level through the translucent glass. The surface of the water quivered, creating a ripple.

Danica walked into the room, flipping her hair and glancing at it with disgust. When she saw Andrea staring at the pitcher, she raised her eyebrows in confusion.

Marlena intersected the other redhead and handed her a steaming cup of coffee before Danica could ask the question in her mind.

Celes turned when she heard the footsteps coming into the room. "Andrea stumbled across a new power last night. She's trying to see if she can do it again." The dark-haired witch then turned toward the blonde and said, "You're holding back. Don't worry about making a mess. You know how many things I've broken while trying to rein in my telekinetic power."

Andrea took a deep breath and nodded her head. She then narrowed her eyes and leaned in closer to the pitcher, her nose crinkling as she concentrated.

"Oh!" Danica exclaimed and raised a hand in front of her as an eruption of water burst out of the top of the pitcher. She instinctively used her telekinetic powers to ward away the water.

Ashley snapped a hand toward the fountain of water, halting time for the cascade of water.

"That's really pretty," Marlena observed. "I don't suppose you could leave it that way?"

"Sorry," Andrea apologized with a sigh.

"No harm done, Dearie," Celes said in comforting tones. She then spoke the words of a spell, finishing the chant by rapidly spreading her hands apart, fingers splayed. The water droplets evaporated, turning into steam that curled up to the roof above. "See? Now, give it another go."

Andrea nodded and concentrated again. This time, she managed to cause a little column of water to rise up within the pitcher and cascade back down within the glass, only a few drops escaping the rim.

"That's wonderful, Andrea," Danica beamed, the smile on the blonde's face helping to lighten her still dark mood. She then sniffed the air and said, "I guess the girls are making breakfast?"

The other women nodded, and Marlena's tummy loudly rumbled at the same time, setting off a chorus of chuckles and giggles.

"Something tells me I missed something, but..." Danica trailed off and turned her head as if she'd heard a sound.

"What is it?" Celes asked.

"The message bowl. Someone just sent something," Danica answered as she stood.

Her gathered friends couldn't help but smile when Danica returned with a grin on her face. "It's from Damian. He and Darkni put their heads together and finished something." She crossed the room to Ashley and said, "You're first. Damian asked me a lot of questions about all of you, and I guess what I told him about you sparked inspiration."

Ashley accepted the exquisite wooden box from Danica and opened it. Her mouth dropped open in a silent gasp and her eyes misted over when she saw the ring inside.

The tooled gold band held a remarkably clear amber stone with a tiny speck in the center. Whatever the stone within was, it had the exact same hue as Ashley's dark red hair. Crafted with all of Damian's skill and love, the ring was a stunning example of his dedication to the creation of unique magic items.

"Damian says that he thought amber was the perfect stone for someone with power over time. It will hold spells cast into it, and turn away magic used against you. There's an enchantment that makes it summon up useful magic inside it when you need it. Darkni cast several powerful spells into it already, and we can add more."

"It's beautiful," Ashley said as a single tear rolled down her cheek.

"And useful," Danica added. "I'll feel a whole lot better once he's finished the other two, though."

Edna dusted off her hand on her apron and asked, "You didn't have him make one for me, did you? Breakfast is ready."

Danica smiled and replied, "I most certainly did. Marlena has one, I have one, and Celes has her own collection. I'll be far less anxious if everyone has the same magical protection."

"Well, if it'll make you feel better, and it's as pretty as that one, I'll surely wear it without complaining. Now, come eat."

"Yes, Grams," five women responded in unison, and then responded to Edna's hearty laugh with their own.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Celes walked up and laid a hand on Danica's shoulder as the redhead stared out the window at the timeless valley she now called home.

"I'm going to stay and finish Edna's cottage. I still need some time," Danica said in response to the unanswered question.

"You have all the time you want, and ears aplenty to bend, Dearie."

"I know. Thank you. You should take Ashley with you. She's been practicing the craft longer, and she might recognize something if she sees Mache."

"I'll ask her. You go get yourself in the lab. Andrea said she's going to spend her day with a needle. We all need a few more bras so we don't have to wash them every day."

"Bras?" Danica asked with a hint of amusement.

"Brassieres is too darn long."

"I like it."

"Good, because you're stuck with it. Now, go get to work. Finish up that cottage, and then get the girls' toys enchanted. They're helping out a lot around here. They've earned that reward."

"I will. Be careful."

Celes nodded and hugged her friend. She then turned to find Ashley, and Danica followed, breaking off in the hall to make her way to the lab.

She wisely stopped along the way to pick up a pillow for her chair this time.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Meckatuar's laughter echoed through the cold stone of Nightmare Castle as he sent a fresh group of demons out into the world. He felt his power growing with each denizen of the lower planes he unleashed. In time, he would be able to challenge the power of the gods long enough to rip open the portal once more.

"Master..."

The devil turned upon Rexxus and snarled. "Enough hide amongst the mortals. Their terror is my power. These will distract them from seeking those amongst them."

If his Master's retort had not already silenced him, Meckataur's last words would have. "Of course, my Lord and Evil Master. I stand rebuked in evidence of your foresight."

Meckataur dug his claws into Rexxus chest with a violent, impossibly fast thrust, and lifted the demon from the floor. The devil's burning red eyes bored into Rexxus as he rumbled, "Never doubt me, Rexxus. I was born into this world in my former life. I know it — and hate it — far more than you could possibly imagine. I will have this darkness that my spawn Thanatos has given to me to taste of again."

With that, the immense demon lord shook his servant free of his claws and spread his wings to soar upward into the castle. On the floor below, Rexxus growled in pain and clutched the five wounds oozing ichor from his chest. Those wounds would never heal without a massive infusion of power, and would serve as a potent reminder of Meckataur's power.

Rexxus understood the message, and revised his already wary estimation of the powerful hellspawn he served. For now, he would serve. If he could not topple the devil, he could do far worse than to serve him and enjoy the spoils of Meckataur's power.

In a crackle of flame, Rexxus vanished to spy upon the devil's spawn, and the wizard Ebonar.

Sitting in the shadows nearby where he'd observed the exchange, C'seka showed a toothy grin, and then vanished as well.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Well, what do you think?" Bear asked as Celes and Ashley sat down.

"If I had to guess anyone here was a demon in disguise, I would choose this Mache. His complete lack of empathy, his arrogance, and his phenomenal strength are all demon traits. It is only that, though — a guess." Ashley nodded toward Celes. "I agree with Celes. We will have to confront him."

"You have an idea to get him out and away from everyone else?" Celes asked.

Janelle nodded. "I've already cleared it with the Commander, and called in favors with those who supervise his training."

"I'll wager that the Commander didn't like it much," Celes said and punctuated it with a snort.

"The Commander trusts us, but he is wary. If we are mistaken..." Bear shrugged his massive shoulders.

"It would look bad for the Forge," Celes finished.

"I can cloud the memories of any who observe a mistake," Nara interjected.

"And heal," Mara added.

Ashley shook her head in wonder, watching the group move and speak as though they were brothers and sisters who had grown up together. "The way all of you function as a group is astounding."

"We had a lot of practice," Celes laughed.

Bear's rumbling chuckle overshadowed the others, who shared Celes' mirth. "I suppose it's all coming back to us."

Celes laid a hand on Ashley's. "We're not doing so bad either."

Ashley nodded. "I think we should confront him alone — the five of us. We know more about demons, and we're better prepared to confront them." She smiled sheepishly at the others gathered in the room. "No offense intended."

"We'll be ready to help, if you need us," Janelle responded. "We've fought minor demons before, and it was not pleasant. If this demon is as powerful as you believe, I do not envy you in facing it."

"She's right," Celes agreed. "As witches, Ashley, Andrea, and I were born to fight demons. Danica's powers can carry her, and Marlena underestimates her control over illusion."

Seated cross-legged in a shadowed chair with his hands intertwined in his lap and his eyes closed, Venaru remarked, "She certainly caused no small amount of trouble when we faced her."

Celes sighed, "I think she'll spend her whole life trying to make up for that. She knew long before most that Zoraster needed to be stopped, though."

"The Commander works to lessen our dependence upon the benefits provided by his successor, as well," Janelle revealed. "Very soon, this place will be completely independent of Zoraster's remaining influence."

"I wouldn't count on that," Celes muttered. She received a full complement of grudging nods in response.

"We should get back," Ashley suggested.

Celes stood. "Aye. We need to talk to everyone else, and see if Danica is up to this yet. Something tells me that we shouldn't try to do this without her."

"I need some time to finish a few potions and charms too." Ashley stood up as well.

Janelle walked over and hugged Celes. "I can put everything into place in about four days. Any sooner than that would look suspicious because it changes the normal training schedule. Gods go with you and protect you."

"Let them keep an eye on you and that babe first," Celes said with a wink. "Are you all going to be able to handle seeing Marlena?"

"Just as the Commander trusts us, so do we trust your judgment," Venaru answered, only the second time the wiry easterner had spoken this day.

"We may find it awkward, but we understand her motivation and do not bear her ill will," Mara agreed.

"We'll see you soon, then," Celes said as she reached for Ashley's hand.

With the goodbyes complete a minute or so later, the pair of witches vanished on their magical journey back to the manor.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica put the roof of Edna's cottage in place. She sighed, "Finished."

"When you put your mind to something, it sure gets done in a hurry." Celes looked at the cottage, moving to take in the intricate detail of the model that was so critical to the magic.

"To be fair, I'd already worked on the manor and Ashley's cottage. All the hard work of mastering the process was done. I still don't know if it will hold the magic, either."

"I have faith in you, Dearie. I've yet to see you achieve less than you expected — let alone fail."

"We'll find out tomorrow." Danica grinned and patted the little cottage sitting on her worktable.

"Janelle says she needs four days to put things in place without raising suspicion, so you have time."

"That should give me time to enchant the cottages, and the toys for the girls. I'll feel a lot better with that all off my plate."

"So, how are you?"

Danica tilted her head to the side and shrugged her shoulders. "I'll be wrestling with this for a long time. I think I have enough of a grip on it to function, though."

"That's good, because I don't like the idea of calling out a greater demon without you at my side."

Danica took Celes' hand in hers and responded, "Neither do I." She then looked around with a curious expression. "How late is it?"

"Just after sundown," Celes answered.

"Where is everyone?"

"Marlena went to bed early. She's wrestling with the need to go to the Forge."

Danica nodded, understanding that the illusionist would certainly find the journey painful, remembering the death and destruction she had reluctantly participated in.

"Edna has the girls over in their wing studying. Andrea is still busy with her needle and thread. We should all have a pair of new bras soon, though. Ashley is out gathering some flowers that only bloom at night to make more charms and potions."

"And you?"

"I'm here to make sure you get yourself a proper bath and get that pretty little behind into bed. I set some of my candles to burning in your room."

Danica smiled as she stood, knowing that the calming influence of Celes' candles was now even stronger, enhanced by witchcraft. "Thank you, Celes."

Celes kissed Danica and said, "That smile is all the thanks I need. Now off with you. One more kiss and neither of us will get any rest."

The thought stirred Danica's blood, and she knew Celes probably felt the same. She also knew that Celes understood that Danica wasn't ready for it. The dark-haired witch confirmed it a moment later when she playfully swatted Danica's behind and walked toward her room.

Danica sought her own room, now filled with the scent of lavender from Celes' candles. She found her bath already drawn, her bed turned down, and a nightgown already laid out for her.

Celes' careful preparations did exactly what they were intended to do — chase away Danica's cares with ruthless efficiency.

Bathed and content, Danica fell asleep almost as soon as her head hit the pillow.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Zoraster let out a satisfied sigh and chuckled as he watched Camilla grimacing in pain from the relentless pricks of the needles tattooing her flesh. Rune structures already decorated large portions of her nude body, and would cover her almost completely before the night ended.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 11



Once acclimated to the runes and their use, Camilla would be ready for the final step in her transformation. That final step would create the perfect weapon to send against Danica and the others.

He laughed as he considered that the women would provide the catalyst to complete Camilla's transformation by their own actions. Their interest in Mache would ensure the cooperation of the demon's sire, Meckataur.

Glancing at his arm, Zoraster willed his own tattoos to glow, making them visible. Already he commanded great power through the runes, and the structures were but partially complete.

Should Camilla fail, Zoraster stood prepared to humble Danica through his own power.

A cry of pain drew the Archmage's eyes back to his scrying mirror. Two men turned their needles upon Camilla's breasts while two more forcefully held her knees apart. Between her shackled legs, a fifth man stabbed his needle into Camilla's already pierced labia, to inscribe runes there.

Zoraster sat back to observe, wondering if the woman writhing and moaning in pain understood the truth of her penance.

It had only just begun.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Are we ready?" Celes asked of Marlena and Danica.

Both women nodded.

Celes turned to Andrea and Ashley. "If we get lost in the ecstasy and you see us failing, break the chain of our hands. It will destroy what Danica has worked so hard on, but it would kill us all otherwise. We've done this before, but better safe than sorry."

"Let's give Edna a place to call her own," Danica declared, and reached out for the hands of her fellow magic users. She had awakened early, her every thought consumed with the completion of the cottage. She knew the feeling well, as she felt it to some degree every time she enchanted a magic item. The anxious single-mindedness was always most potent when she anticipated the enchantment of something unique, like the cottage on the table in front of her.

Celes began her chant first, using her spell to channel her mystical power and Marlena's into Danica. Though the magic caused no visible effect, all three women could certainly feel the energy crackling around their joined hands. Danica began her chant. 

The spell was long, and enhanced Danica's voice as power swelled within her. The sound of her words loudly echoed off the walls as a blue aura of magic surrounded the cottage in front of her. Danica repeated the final words of the spell three times, the last word a shout that caused the blue glow around the cottage to intensify so much that none could look upon it.

Danica held her breath as the light dimmed to reveal the nimbus of magic swirling around her creation. Tendrils of magical power flowed into the cottage, until the last blue mote of light vanished. All three women slumped, barely managing to maintain their balance and their feet. Andrea and Ashley hurried to support their weakened friends, and both witches noticed the tingle of power from the cottage as they did so.

The three spell casters had to sit down for a while, but their strength rapidly returned. As soon as she felt she could safely stand, Danica took a deep breath and walked over to the cottage.

An examination of the magic item in the second sight brought a wide smile to Danica's lips. The cottage held tremendous power, and the threads of magic Danica could see indicated success of her spell. "It looks like it worked, but there's only one way to find out."

Ashley smiled and announced, "I'll bring Edna."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The bed creaked alarmingly as the man upon it forcefully thrust his erection into a moaning woman. Safely hidden within the dimensional pocket of his slave woman's Hellgate, C'seka watched, and waited.

A final squeal from the woman and an explosive growl from the man signaled the couple's shared climax. The man collapsed almost immediately atop his partner with a long groan.

C'seka knew the truth of the man — actually one of Meckataur's minor demons in disguise. The woman too was more than she appeared — a witch. With the couple lost in the languor of their spent passion, the cunning demon made his move.

C'seka ordered his slave to move the portal almost on top of the couple. Once within range, the demon burst forth from the Hellgate and created a dagger from his long-nailed hands. C'seka hissed with ecstatic satisfaction as his talons drove entirely through the body of the man to find the flesh of the woman below.

Demon and witch both died with a series of gurgles and weak death throes. All the while, C'seka growled as power flowed up his claws, through his arm, and permeated his body. Once the power ceased to flow, C'seka pulled his arm free, noting that he had little trouble doing so thanks to the newfound strength gained in the death of the now still couple.

Though it seemed wasteful to leave the corpses, C'seka knew he could risk no further exposure. He retreated into the Hellgate to learn about his newfound abilities there. As he examined the power roiling through him, C'seka understood that he now possessed the witch's ability to become invisible. He also had gained an acidic touch from the demon, along with its greater strength.

C'seka silently ordered the wizardess controlling the Hellgate to return him to Nightmare Castle. While the woman complied, C'seka lapped the blood and ichor from his arm, shuddering from the sensation of his new powers swelling within him.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica leaned back from whispering in Edna's ear, and then nodded her head toward the cottage.

Edna smiled and said the command word Danica had revealed. "Home."

The cottage expanded, rapidly swelling in size and sending off a magical tendril toward the manor. Within mere seconds, a real, full-sized cottage stood in front of the assembled women. A walkway that was truthfully more of a hallway connected the cottage to the manor via a side door. Edna wiped a tear from her old eye when she beheld the full glory of Danica's magical creation.

Celes walked over to Danica and kissed the redhead on the cheek. "Fine work, Dearie." The raven-haired witch then turned toward the assembled clones, which were all applauding and laughing in response to watching the magic. "Now come along girls. Your Gran needs a bit to get settled, so we're going to go give her some time."

Ashley, Andrea, and Marlena joined Celes, to help herd the girls back into the manor. Danica took Edna's hand and said, "Let me show you around."

Edna marveled at how Danica had managed to keep the rustic feel of a cottage. Yet, at the same time, the place had amenities that were certainly far more. The tub would allow Edna to stretch out to her full length and relax. Magic filled and drained the tub with water of any temperature that Edna desired. The chamber pot, with its cunningly crafted seat, would likewise empty without the need to physically dump it.

Various other enchantments would maintain the temperature and humidity of the cottage, as well as defend it against the elements and magic. Upon completing the tour, Danica brought Edna to a spot off the kitchen designated as both a dining area and Edna's personal potion-making space. Edna turned toward Danica when she noticed a hole in the design plan, an open space that absolutely screamed for something to occupy it. 

Danica responded before Edna could ask a question. "A little present from Ashley and me." She then spoke a word of command.

"Oh, you are a dear," Edna laughed as her herb cabinet appeared in the empty space. She opened the doors to find everything she remembered was inside, plus a few new jars.

"Ashley replaced anything you were running low on, and added a few things."

"And put every one of them exactly where they should go. Thank you, Danica. It's wonderful. I'll be comfortable here, for certain."

"I thought you'd probably need a quiet retreat. I plan to enchant the girls' toys tomorrow."

Edna laughed and responded, "You likely have the right of that." She fondly patted Danica's arm, and managed to avoid a start as a premonition flashed through her head.

"We'll help you settle in."

Keeping her premonition to herself, Edna nodded and led Danica down the hall, back into the manor.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Zoraster looked into an all too familiar mirror. His lip twitched in irritation, and then he growled. The Archmage turned away from the mirror, wondering why Danica had not yet brought her flock of women to attack Mache.

Patience, a voice whispered within him. "Patience is a virtue of the weak and helpless," Zoraster answered the silent voice aloud.

A glance at another mirror revealed Camilla marveling at the power she now commanded through her rune tattoos. Though the woman had paled upon seeing her marked body once Zoraster had ordered her healed, she now accepted the blemish in favor of the tremendous power.

Yet another mirror showed Ebonar stoically enduring his own tattoos. He already understood the power that his pain would bring.

Zoraster's eyes roved over the bank of mirrors, taking in the scenes and information coming to him from around the globe. One of the scrying devices, attuned to the attacks of Meckataur's demons, piqued the Archmage's interest.

"The world is coming to an end, I tell you," a man within the mirror lamented.

"Only knee high it 'twas, but murderous as the day is long," a second man agreed.

"I saw it destroyed. Three priests it took."

"The gods abandon us to our fate."

"Seems that way. Nowhere to run, and nowhere to hide."

A long, disturbing chuckle bubbled from Zoraster's throat as he watched. "Faith slips away, and with it your sustenance. Starved for worship, you will wither. Then shall you know what it is to be manipulated, as you have manipulated this world."

"Master, she is recovered," announced a monotone voice from the back of the room.

Zoraster nodded without turning, and the clone servant left, knowing its message delivered. Caterina had regained her strength after her last offering of blood. She stood ready to give the life energy necessary to enchant a third of the glass wombs that would allow Zoraster to begin creating clones again.

The touch lasted but a fraction of a second, but it stopped Zoraster dead in his tracks. The Archmage hissed in surprised satisfaction, and reached out to grasp the wispy strand of contact again. Though he could not find the connection again, the strength of the momentary contact surprised him. He could almost feel her nipples, tightly pinched between his fingers with the warmth of blood trickling down his hands. He could hear her mixed cries of pain and pleasure, so unique and arousing.

Though abhorring patience, the Archmage had such capacity within him — when the reward was great enough to warrant the wait.

If he could establish contact with her again, this reward could prove great indeed.

Pleased and aroused to throbbing hardness, Zoraster briskly walked to where Caterina awaited. She would offer more than her blood this time to satisfy his needs.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Hope you're enjoying Book II of Danica's story. Thanks to Roust for his editing, as always. Big thanks to all of you reading and commenting on the tale as well.

Again, I offer my apologies for the long dry spell. My muse is a scatterbrained sort. Sometimes she goes off on tangents and drags me along. Sometimes she just goes on long vacations without so much as sending me a postcard. The only thing I can promise is that so long as I'm breathing, this story will progress until it is complete.

Please do vote and comment. That's all the payment we receive as free authors. That's what keeps us coming back for more.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 12



Author's Notes:

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission.

© Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Nara lurked far from where Venaru instructed the group of trainees in the basics of the Eastern open-handed fighting style. While she couldn't see Mache, she could sense him with the feather-light touch of her mind. The man did not react to her mental seeking, letting her know that she'd found just the right balance in her probes.

"You have him?" Her sister asked.

Nara didn't open her eyes, but offered a slight nod in response. Mara concentrated on her spell, seeking magical disturbances even as Nara hoped to detect something with her psionic powers. Neither targeted the suspected demon directly, but instead cast out a general net that only the most sensitive and attentive could possibly notice.

Mara listened to Venaru's instruction with the aid of a pair of magical earrings. She couldn't help but grin as the wiry warrior directed subtle barbs at Mache and the others. While everyone felt the lash of his tongue, Venaru directed his criticism most often to Mache, who seemed to find the instruction of little merit.

Venaru called a halt to the training contests between the students. He then pointed out things that each man should practice to improve his technique, finishing with Mache. "You depend much upon your strength, and you are arrogant. One day, you may find yourself without a weapon and brought low by weakness. At that time, my instruction would serve you well. You underestimate the power found in speed and knowledge, and it may prove your downfall if you do not amend your thinking." He then instructed the entire group, "This lesson is ended."

Nara let out a gasp and tightly pressed the heel of her hand against her forehead and the bridge of her nose. Mara let her spell lapse and reached out to steady her wavering sister. "Nara, what is it?"

Nara took a few deep breaths. "Venaru found Mache's breaking point. As he dismissed the students, Mache's mind filled with a vision so powerful and hateful that it nearly overwhelmed my own defenses."

"What was it?"

"Venaru engulfed in a column of fire and burning alive, unable to flee the hungry flames."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Andrea lifted her hand from above the clone's mound and right breast, the healing energy of her prayer having done its work. The clone of Danica blushed in shame, refusing to look at the concerned women standing around her.

"Daretta, dear, I know it's difficult, but you must not hurt yourself so." Edna took the redheaded copy's hand as she spoke.

"I'm sorry," Daretta responded in a tiny voice.

Andrea smoothed back down the clone's skirt and pulled her blouse closed. "It's okay, sweetie. If you start feeling that way, come talk to one of us. We'll help you."

"I promise."

"Now button up and go help your sisters. We won't say anything to them," Edna finished, giving Daretta a final squeeze of her hand.

"It just feels so good when I'm doing it," Daretta sighed as she worked on the buttons of her blouse.

"I know. You just have to remember how you feel afterwards and be strong."

Edna nodded to Andrea as she finished speaking. Andrea offered Daretta a comforting smile and patted the redhead's leg before leaving the room. She went directly to the lab, where everyone else waited.

"How is she?" Danica asked as soon as Andrea walked in the room.

"Ashamed." Andrea touched her breast. "She was still bleeding here a little."

"Are we ever going to find a way to break Zoraster's evil magic on them?" Danica sighed, and hung her head.

Recognizing that Danica was identifying her own plight with that of the clone, Celes quickly shifted away from the subject. "We will. I'll go fetch the aloe. It looks like we missed it when we were gathering up everything else."

Marlena also realized that Danica needed distraction from her thoughts. "Are you going to try to enchant them all at once? Do you think the mass enchantment spell is strong enough for that?"

Danica nodded. "The enchantments aren't that powerful, and they're all identical. It's the combination of them that does the trick." Her voice steadily lost the touches of despair that had darkened it as she spoke.

"They'll certainly do the trick," Celes quipped as she returned with the aloe.

Andrea could sense a question from Ashley, as could Celes. The dark-haired witch subtly gestured to Andrea.

"We'll just be in the way with wizard magic. Find me when they're done."

Danica nodded to Andrea before returning to her work, her mind centering on the preparations necessary before enchanting the array of phallic toys on the table in front of her.

Only a light touch and the growing connection between them was enough to let Ashley know to follow Andrea. As soon as they were out of earshot, Ashley asked her question. "I've known women who cut themselves when they were depressed. Is that what it is?"

Andrea shook her head. "It's worse than that. Zoraster did things to them with his magic, and other ways. Daretta feels pleasure when she hurts herself. She's only hinted at some of the things that she remembers, and even that makes me cringe."

Ashley nodded to indicate that she understood. She then looked over her shoulder, back toward the lab. "I'm worried about Danica."

Andrea sighed. "Me too."

The pair saw Edna following Daretta into the kitchen. The older witch waved them over, and paused at the doorway.

Once the two witches reached her, Edna said, "I had a premonition yesterday. I know a way to help Danica."

"Oh, that's good." Andrea said with relief.

"One of the two of you should bring it up to Celes, because I think she knows Danica best, but it's what the poor girl needs, if my vision is right. Come along, and I'll explain."

The two younger witches followed Edna to a table in the kitchen, their smiles growing wider as the older witch revealed her vision.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Almost ready," Danica declared as she checked over the spell components arrayed in front of her on the table. Her head popped up and she said, "Oh — someone sent something through the message bowl."

Celes stood. "I'll go get it."

Another chime sounded in Danica's head and she chuckled. "Another one."

"I'd best hurry before things start falling out in the floor, then."

Celes returned a moment later, carrying a wrapped box in one hand, and a letter in the other. She held up the box and said, "From Damian." She then raised the letter and added, "This one's from Nara. They have a little bit of information. Seems our Mache gets his giggles from watching people burn alive."

"That certainly sounds like a demon," Danica sighed. "I need a pick-me-up. What did Damian send?"

Celes winked and smiled. "See for yourself. I'll go get Andrea."

Danica held out her hands and wiggled her fingers. Celes' hint revealed that Damian had finished the magical ring for Andrea. Danica eagerly read the note that had arrived with the box while she waited for Celes to return with Andrea.

"Why can't I open my eyes?" Andrea asked as Celes led her into the room.

Walking next to her sister witches, Ashley smiled when she saw the box in Danica's hand. Having only received her own ring a few days ago, she had little trouble recognizing the unique signature of Damian's woodwork. Danica sat the box down on the table right in front of the blonde as Celes positioned Andrea next to the table.

"Okay, you can open your eyes now," Celes said.

Andrea sucked in a long, excited breath when she saw the wooden box. "Is it...?"

Danica nodded. "Well — open it, silly."

"Oh my," Andrea gasped as she opened the box. She removed the ring and turned it in her fingers, admiring the beautiful workmanship. The pale gold band almost perfectly matched the color of her hair, and detailed etchings of flowers encircled the band. Four stones crowned the ring — a ruby, an emerald, a sapphire, and a diamond — symbolizing Andrea's control over elemental powers.

"This is what happens when you put two people obsessed with creating magic items in proximity — not that I'm complaining." Danica laughed as Andrea and Ashley both held out their new rings next to each other to admire them.

Ashley grinned and said, "These are going to intimidate any man who might want to propose to us. He'll have to do better."

"If you can't find a man who'll ask you without finding a finer ring than one of Damian's, you'll both be spinsters," Celes scoffed.

Ashley noticed the other note on the table and leaned in to read it. "That sounds like a demon with a special affinity for fire. Nearly every greater demon can command flames, but this suggests something more."

"Can't hurt to take special precautions against fire, then," Danica suggested.

Celes nodded toward the blonde and added, "And rather convenient that Andrea suddenly springs up with power over water."

"I'm not looking forward to this." Danica sighed and then took a long breath.

"Look forward to something else, then." Celes passed Danica the first of the spell components she would need to enchant the toys in front of her. "Them girls' faces all aglow."

Danica picked up the small silk pouch with a nod.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The sun edged lower on the horizon. Danica stood on the roof of the manor, lost in thought. The enchantment of the toys had worked perfectly, leaving Danica with free time. She couldn't possibly enchant Ashley's cottage after bringing the toys to life, and nothing else she tried to work on distracted her quite so well as the unique items.

"This place is beautiful, but it has a bad attitude. We'd probably fit right together, if the valley didn't try to blow my skirt off every time I show up."

Danica turned with surprise plainly etched on her features. "Devan?"

"Hey, Sis," Devan answered, and then gathered up her sister in a hug.

"What are you doing here?"

"Don't get mad, but Celes picked me up. She told me what happened."

"I'm not mad, but I think this is just something I need to work through on my own."

Devan put a hand on her hip and cocked it to the side, staring her sister down. "You think? Well, I'm pulling rank. I'm your older sister, and you're wrong this time."

Once, those words — even spoken in jest — would have aroused Danica's ire, founded in her jealousy of Devan. Now, she heard the words for what they truly represented, an offer to help. "I still think I'm going to have to figure this one out, but thanks."

Devan walked over to stand next to her sister, nodding to indicate that Danica should return to her silent survey of the valley. "Do you happen to remember looking out a window on Darkni's island with me?"

The moment her sister mentioned it, the entire conversation played through Danica's head. Mixed in with that memory, she also remembered Celes' words back at the Forge. "You're not playing fair," she sighed, and then let out a sad chuckle.

"Since when did I ever? You were right when you took me to task, and you're right now. Even though you may have done the wrong thing, nothing bad came of it. You also know what you did, and I doubt it will happen again. Even though you have magic working against you, I imagine you'll have less of a struggle than me."

Danica looked over to see Devan toying with an amulet that she'd pulled out of her robe. The necklace was decorated with feathers and beads, something that didn't fit Devan's normal taste. "That's really pretty."

Devan blushed. "White Stag made it for me. He made protective charms and had his shaman bless them. We're passing them out to everyone to help defend against demon powers."

"Something tells me that there's more to it than that. There's an awful lot of care in that amulet you're wearing, and you're blushing."

"Don't make me spank you," Devan playfully countered. Almost immediately, a strong breeze accosted her, without so much as disturbing a hair on Danica's head. Devan held up her hands and said, "I was kidding."

The wind died down again, and Devan muttered, "I can't believe I'm explaining myself to the wind."

"Sorry, I shouldn't tease you."

Devan laughed. "It's okay. I don't know if I'm ready to walk back down that path yet, but I'm taking a few steps. It's so hard not to just drag him into bed."

"Can you stay for supper?"

"I should really... You know what — yes, I can. That's something else I need to get over. I need to start trusting people to keep things going while I'm gone."

Danica gestured for Devan to follow her as she stepped off the edge of the roof. Danica drifted downward, supported by a feather falling spell, and Devan descended by the same means a few seconds later. Danica laughed when she landed and said, "You'll probably want to head home right after supper, though. I finished the toys for the girls, so this probably isn't going to be a quiet place tonight."

"I'm liable to need one of those soon."

Danica cringed, "That's just a little... I don't know."

Devan let out an explosive laugh and responded, "Nice to know that I still have one card I can play. It's the truth, though. I may have to borrow your plans and try my hand at making one."

Danica chuckled and shook her head. "Let's go get them then, so I can stop thinking about it."

"You're a prude."

"Behave."

Both sisters laughed as they walked back into the manor, bringing a wide smile to Celes' face as she watched out the window.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"I feel like Grandfather Yule," Danica whispered to Celes as she returned to the sitting room after placing the girls' toys on their beds.

"Not going to be a quiet night around here, that's for sure," Celes whispered back. "Your sister was in rare form at supper," she then said in a normal tone of voice.

"It's good to see her like that. It's been a long time."

"How are you?"

"Better. I think I needed that. Thanks."

"It was Edna's idea. She had a premonition." Celes glanced over at Marlena, who sat staring into the fireplace. She then whispered, "Do you think Marlena is going to make it?"

"We'll just have to see. If it's too much for her, we'll make sure she knows that it's okay."

Andrea walked into the room and said, "They're almost done with the dishes. Edna's going to bring them in as soon as they've washed up."

"We should probably plan to make breakfast in the morning," Celes chuckled.

"A late one," Danica agreed.

"We all may as well turn in early. We certainly aren't going to get any work done tonight, if my guess about the noise coming from the girls' side of the manor for half the night is right."

"There's not much more we can do to prepare, anyway," Ashley interjected as she walked into the room. "Here they come."

A few seconds later, the girls all hurried into the room, with Edna trailing. As soon as they were all waiting in an expectant group, Danica said, "I have surprises for all of you in your rooms."

"Did you cast a mass haste spell while I wasn't looking?" Celes laughed as the girls vanished from the room, running as fast as they could without tripping over each other.

Shortly thereafter, everyone heard squeals of delight and laughter emerging from the girls' wing of the manor. Everyone knew that those sounds would probably change soon, and last for quite some time as the girls played with their new toys.

One by one, everyone stood to find their beds as the sound of bedroom doors closing echoed from the other side of the manor.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The sleepy-eyed Captain sheathed his sword, seeing no more enemies. He turned to his Lieutenant and ordered, "Send a scout to the nearest company with a wizard. We need to get out word that there are advance scouts, raiding parties, or deserters out here, deeper into the country. Make sure it's a man who can stay hidden, move quickly, and handle himself if he does get spotted."

The Lieutenant turned toward a group of soldiers gathered around a single man. "Maybe we should send Wessel. Half of those goblins were dead before any of the rest of us managed to get out of our bedrolls. If he'd shown this much aptitude in training, he'd be up with one of the advance companies right now."

"Could be a fluke, or it could just be that it took a shot of harsh reality to bring out the man in him. Either way, I'm going to keep an eye on him for a while. If he keeps up like this, it will boost morale to promote him in the field. We should probably hang a medal or two on him too."

"Always nice to get those while you're still breathing. I'll send Jameson. With any luck, they'll actually send him back. He and Ronson gave good accounting of themselves as well."

"If a few more of these dogs show some balls in action, we might just have a real company to show off when we march home with pouches full of goblin ears."

Ebonar took one last look at the image in the mirror and chuckled. This is working out quite well — quite well indeed.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The remaining time passed slowly, and everyone felt nearly as anxious as Marlena by the time Janelle sent a message to let Danica know that everything was in place.

Danica, Celes, and Marlena had chosen to wear their robes, which provided ample storage for the spell components of the Art. Andrea and Ashley had both chosen blouses and pants, not wanting to have the distraction of skirts for this battle. All five women were bedecked with magical jewelry and charms blessed by the three witches.

"Are we ready?" Danica asked.

"As ready as we can be, considering we know next to nothing about what powers this demon might have," Ashley answered.

Danica walked over and laid a hand on Marlena's shoulder. "Are you okay?"

Marlena smiled weakly. "Not really. The thought of watching you leave to fight this monster without me turns my blood to ice, though."

Danica pulled the illusionist close and said, "Everything will be fine — you'll see."

"Time's a wastin'," Celes declared, holding out her hands in preparation to teleport to the Forge.

"Do you want me to help?" Danica asked.

"Ever since I accepted my powers, I barely notice any strain from teleporting. I could probably bounce the lot of us around the world for half the day before it weakened me."

"Fair enough." Danica took Celes' right hand.

Marlena clasped Celes' left hand, followed by Ashley and Andrea joining the chain. Celes cast her spell, and the group vanished from the manor to reappear within Janelle and Bear's house.

"You must be Andrea. It's nice to meet you," Janelle said, moving toward the blonde witch. "I'm Janelle."

"Danica told us about you," Andrea responded.

Marlena unconsciously moved into the background, remaining behind Celes and Danica. Her heart skipped a beat when Janelle turned from Andrea and stepped toward her.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 12



With all the speed and grace she exhibited in battle, Janelle caught up Marlena in her arms. "We all understand."

"I..." Marlena began, her voice cracking as a sob threatened to well up from inside her.

"Shh," Janelle admonished and hugged the illusionist even tighter. "Let the past be the past."

After offering a final smile, the archer informed everyone else of the situation. "Mache is currently stationed as an advance scout for his training company. He's well out of sight of his company and the grounds here. His company will move even farther in just a short while. I've convinced his teachers to give us some time alone with him, partly because they owe me favors, and partly because they're not fond of the arrogant ass anyway. There shouldn't be anyone nearby when you confront him."

"Where are the others?" Danica asked, surprised to find only Janelle awaiting them.

"They're all in the village," Janelle revealed, the inflection of her voice indicating that she meant the mock village used for training. "They're waiting for us there, and we'll be close enough to help if you need it."

"If we can't handle this demon, you'd be better off sounding the alarm than trying to help us," Ashley warned. "We're as ready as anyone could possibly be for it."

"We'll make sure that happens, but we're not letting you go out there without backup," Janelle declared in tones that indicated she wouldn't accept any alternative.

Celes cut off any further discussion. "Fair enough. Now, let's get to it."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Mache leaned against the tree he'd chosen as his watchpost, bored and irritated. He utilized his powers as much as his senses to keep track of his surroundings, and thus felt the touch of magic long before he saw the source.

Danica and Celes led the group, their Art creating an invisible shield before them. A normal person would not have noticed the shield, but Mache was no normal person. He was unconcerned, however, and concentrated instead upon the women the shield protected. Five attractive females evoked the natural response in the lusty demon. "I hope you're not part of some training exercise," he chuckled when they approached within hearing range.

"No, we want to have a little chat with you there, Mache," Celes said, staring him down.

The disguised demon spread his hands wide at his side and said, "I am at your disposal then, Milady."

"Some questions have arisen about how you came to seek training here." Danica followed the script they'd prepared earlier, giving Ashley time to quietly speak the verses that would summon up her magic.

"You need but to ask. I was referred here by..." Mache stopped and snarled as he felt the touch of witchcraft.

"He's a demon," Ashley declared, and almost immediately lashed out with her power over time.

Danica saw Mache slow as Ashley's power wrapped around the demon. She also saw that he was fighting his way free. Ashley had warned them all not to trust her power over time against such a strong, unknown demon. Thus, Danica had not paused before concentrating her mental energy to invade his mind. Unfortunately, the demon didn't provide her with even those precious few moments.

Mache let out a great roar and tore free of the temporal bonds attempting to incapacitate him. His features twisted as he called upon the power of his demonic side to foil Ashley's attack. Fangs and claws emerged, along with smoldering red points in his eyes. Danica had just enough time to register the change before the fireball erupted.

The shields Danica and Celes had erected held — but just barely. While the magic held back the heat, it failed to shield against the shockwave of the fireball's explosion. All five women flew backwards, scattering away from each other as they struggled to regain their footing and balance.

Danica blinked her eyes to clear the afterimage of the conflagration Mache had unleashed. The first thing she saw was the demon leaping toward Andrea, who appeared to have taken a bad tumble. Even as Danica tried to focus, she saw one of Mache's shoulders shoot backward. A glimpse of Celes with her palm facing the demon revealed the source of the attack. Mache recovered quickly, and continued toward the still-groggy blond witch.

Danica summoned up her mental strength again and lashed out at the demon. Mache flinched, but appeared otherwise unperturbed by the lance of mental energy trying to stab into his brain. A potion exploded against Mache's chest, but had no more effect than Celes' power. Danica heard Ashley curse — not a good sign — as she tried a different approach. Concentrating on the demon, Danica did her best to pound her will against his in a gambit to invade his mind.

The demon slowed and snarled, his skin darkening to a deep red and horns pushing through his scalp as he called upon more of his inner power. Mache's hand stabbed downward, his intent to grab Andrea to use her as a shield and bait for the other women. Before he could touch her, he felt a powerful jolt of energy that caused him to jerk his hand away. Various charms of witchcraft and her holy medallion had repelled him. A moment later, she simply vanished.

The air blasted from Celes' lungs as Andrea reappeared to fall on top of her. Celes hadn't thought, she had simply reacted and used her power in a way she'd never tried before. It had removed Andrea to safety, but had briefly taken them both out of the fight.

Though Mache held the upper hand, he realized the danger of this battle. He had tasted witch magic, and not one of the females had fallen to his fire. He swept his claws before him in a tearing motion, having no intention of facing all five females alone.

The resulting sheet of flame roiled, and Mache reached into it without flinching. When he withdrew his black-clawed hands, he pulled forth several man-shaped beings of flame. Bent to the will of the demon, the fire elementals attacked.

Danica tore her mind away from her attempts to attack the demon with her psionic powers. The creature's mind was so shrouded in hate and evil that she couldn't make a dent in it. She spit out a curse when she recognized the fire elementals coalescing, and called upon the power of the runes decorating her skin.

As the runes on Danica's skin flared to brilliant blue life, she saw Mache hesitate. The fire elementals froze in apparent confusion. A momentary glimpse in the second sight let Danica see the vast illusion Marlena had crafted. The landscape had altered, causing trees and hills to appear from nowhere, while some of the natural terrain features faded into invisibility. Marlena's skill with the magic allowed her and her friends to see reality, but it appeared that their foes were not so lucky.

Although Mache could see through the illusion in a hazy fashion, he could tell that his elementals could not. He let out a snarl of irritation and leapt toward Ashley — now his closest target.

Danica released her runic magic, sending forth a frozen cloud toward the demon and elementals he commanded. Two of the denizens from the plane of fire swirled in the cloud and vanished, but Mache passed through without pause. Danica lashed out with her telekinetic power as the demon landed, pushing Mache aside.

Ashley turned her power on herself as the Demon attacked, speeding up time around her to instantly vanish. Once a safe distance away, she spun on the elementals and unleashed her other power. The elementals all froze in place, save for one that had passed out of her range of vision.

Andrea shook her head to try to clear it, only to find her vision filled with a rapidly approaching being of flame. At the same moment, she realized the cold sensation in one of her feet came from immersion in water. She released her power with no semblance of control, magically grabbing every drop of water she could. As had happened in the tub, the small creek seemingly exploded for twenty feet on either side of her.

Celes managed to catch her breath and let a sigh of relief when she saw that everyone was okay. The blast of water from behind startled her, but brought a smile to her lips when it extinguished not only the fire elemental flying toward her, but also another that appeared frozen in place. A water elemental that appeared from nowhere extinguished another.

Ashley's pause to deal with the elementals cost her, as Mache vanished in a crackle of flame to appear right next to her. Before she could call upon her power to escape again, the demon's clawed hand snapped out. Though Mache roared in pain from the charms and magic items protecting the redheaded witch, the backhanded blow struck true. Ashley screamed as she flew through the air, feeling the acute pain of a broken bone in her arm.

Danica poured all her worry and anger into her voice when she unleashed her next runic attack, a cone of cold that forced Mache to retreat. The demon flinched as it stumbled backward, reacting to a telekinetic blast from Celes and a blast of lightning from Andrea. A water elemental that Danica assumed must be another one of Marlena's creations dispatched the remaining fire elmementals.

Danica left part of her mind concentrating on her runic attack while speaking the words of a spell. At this point, she was willing to accept even a temporary banishment of the demon, if the spell worked. She let her icy runic blast wane just as she released the spell.

Mache roared as the banishment spell assaulted him. Though the quick, weaker form of the spell had no chance of removing him from this plane, it certainly caused him pain. He stretched his hand toward Danica, summoning up a crackling ball of flame behind her.

Danica felt the heat just in time to shield her eyes and call upon her runic defenses. The fireball exploded, leaving her enveloped in flame for a few moments. When she could see again, she saw Andrea hurrying toward Ashley. Unfortunately, the demon also saw the blonde-haired witch.

Andrea dived to the ground just in time, allowing the fireball to pass over her — but not harmlessly. She felt the heat when the fireball exploded, and smelled the acrid stench of burning hair. She also saw Ashley flinching as the fire retreated.

Celes' heart leapt in her chest as she watched the fireball engulf her two sister witches. She didn't hesitate when she saw them both alive after the fireball vanished. She called upon her powers and teleported to their side, fortunately without incident.

Marlena sent her water elemental hurtling toward Mache, but the demon swept a black-clawed hand at the phantasm, tearing it asunder in a single strike. The illusionist felt the jolt of her illusion's destruction as her vision swam and her knees grew weak. With a pained gasp, she leaned against a tree and cradled her forehead in her hand. The phantasmal terrain confusing the demon wavered.

A sense of overwhelming danger enveloped Mache as the three witches gathered close together to make physical contact. Realizing that they would have more power when joined, he once again exploded into a conflagration that enveloped the entire area in a rapidly expanding sphere of hellish flame.

Danica didn't even have time to lament the annihilation of her iceball attack with a single curse before Mache's hellfire dissolved the iceball and slammed into her. With her runic defenses already in place, she held her ground against the shockwave, but the flames still obscured her view of the battlefield for long, agonizing seconds.

Ashley cried out in fresh pain from her broken arm as she rolled to a stop. Though the charms protecting her and her sister witches were stronger when together, the blast had nevertheless pulled them apart. Celes had already regained her feet and unleashed an anger fueled slam of her telekinetic power. Mache actually stumbled, his face showing a flash of both surprise and worry. She nearly jumped out of her skin when someone grabbed her arm.

Andrea immediately bowed her head in prayer, calling upon the goddess to heal Ashley's wounds.

Danica saw Marlena slump, a combination of her phantasmal elemental's destruction and the following fireball. Though the illusionary changes to the terrain wavered, they suddenly strengthened. Danica could feel the waves of determination rolling from Marlena as the illusionist called upon reserves of energy to keep her spell in place. She also felt something else.

Jumping on the opportunity, Danica thrust out with her powers of the mind. She penetrated the demon's momentarily weakened defenses for only a second, but it was long enough for her to learn a few bits of crucial information. Mache's instinctive retaliation against her psionic attack stunned Danica immediately thereafter.

Celes whipped a rod out of a special pocket in her robe, aiming it at the demon. The magic weapon, enchanted by Danica, packed several powerful attack spells, including a frigid ray. The beginnings of a satisfied smile tugged at the raven-haired witch's lips as the demon flinched. Not content with that, Celes slammed him with her telekinetic power as well, followed by another blast from the wand. She kept up the furious attack, forcing the demon back a pair of steps.

Mache vanished in a crackle of flame to appear near Marlena, who struggled to stand by bracing her back against a tree. Once again, he tore a gash in the fabric of space to pull forth more elementals. As soon as the living beings of flame swarmed on his foes, he turned on Marlena.

Danica regained her wits just in time, but she had only a fraction of a second to react. She cast the first spell that came to mind, a minor cantrip that even a child with little magic ability could manage.

While possessing powerful protection against most forms of magic, Mache had no defense against the layer of slimy mud that suddenly coated the ground beneath his feet, thanks to Danica's spell. His forward momentum caused his feet to slip, depositing him unceremoniously in the muck below.

Knowing that the charms her friends wore would easily protect against it, Danica chanted the ice storm spell. A powerful magic, it would cover a wide area and certainly give the fire-loving demon pause. It would also devastate the elementals now swarming the battlefield and trying to discern their way through Marlena's illusionary trees. She thrust her hands toward the sky as she finished the spell, unleashing the bitter cold deluge of huge, freezing raindrops and icy pellets.

Mache jammed his black nails into the earth below, searching for something. A moment later, he found it. Summoning up all his strength, he called upon the molten lifeblood of the planet, bringing it toward the surface.

All five women felt the earth tremble and knew something was horribly wrong. As the ground swelled upward, Danica's eyes widened with realization. The earth erupted, spewing forth lava in a fountain up to the tree canopy.

Danica breathed a shuddering sigh of relief when the liquid rock flowed around spheres of protection surrounding each of her friends. The shields did little to help in light of the violent lurching of the earth, however. Danica planted her feet wide and focused her attention on the rising demon, concentrating the power of her ice storm spell on Mache now that the fire elementals had disintegrated.

Mache glanced with irritation at a stinging arrow protruding from his chest. Then, a crossbow bolt thudded into his forehead. At the same time, he felt someone assault his mind, and dozens of icy bolts of magical energy sizzling into his flesh. Battle cries directed his attention to several more mortals approaching the area.

"No," Danica whispered, seeing her old friends approaching. They had protection against magic, but nothing that would stand long against the powerful demon. Reaching out with her mind, she spoke to Celes, Get Ashley, Marlena, and Andrea out of here. I have to save the others. We can't risk them, and nothing seems to be stopping Mache. I learned something important.

I don't like it, but I trust you, Celes replied.

Danica saw Celes touch her sister witches, and all three vanished. They reappeared next to Marlena a few seconds later to join her in the circle. Danica called upon her own magic as the flow of lava boiling forth from the core of the world doubled in height.

"Take my hands, we can't win this fight!" Danica cried as she appeared before Bear and — a surprise to Danica — Brandon leading the charge on the demon.

Just as trusting as Danica's already vanished friends, Brandon and Bear put away their weapons and took Danica's hand. The other Companions likewise added to the chain as they approached. As soon as Terran and Mara clasped hands with the chain, Danica teleported them all away.

Left in the field alone, Mache roared in frustration and relaxed his control over the burning lifeblood of the world. He cocked his head as a little mental voice encouraged him to return to his sire. Knowing that his charade here was ended, and his goal here accomplished by his measure, the demon followed that instinct and vanished in a roar of flame.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

A smug grin of satisfaction decorated Zoraster's face as he watched first Danica and her friends, and then Mache vanish from the scorched, smoldering field of battle. The demon had accepted his subtle mental direction without question, returning to the lair of Meckataur. The magic he had cast many months ago held firm within all of Meckataur's spawn.

"So, you are not invincible, my little rose," Zoraster purred as he rose from his chair. The demon had held his own alone against Danica and her friends, even with the arrival of reinforcements. Mache still lacked experience, and would only prove more effective in battle the next time he faced such dangerous foes.

The Archmage darkened every mirror in the room save one, and sent the magic of the mirror seeking Ebonar.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Thank you, Andrea," Ashley said as she experimentally flexed her previously broken arm and touched the spots that had burned from the touch of the demon's fire.

"What in the hells were you all thinking?" Celes snapped at Brandon, her eyes then darting over the rest of the gathered Companions of the Forge.

"It looked like you needed help," Brandon replied sheepishly with a shrug of his shoulders.

"We ill needed the damn distraction. You don't have the Art about you that we do and..." Celes paused and took a deep breath. "I'm sorry. I'm more than a little riled up right now, and the lot of you scared me to death walking into that nightmare without having all the magic we do protecting us."

Mara stepped forward and said, "We meant only to distract the demon long enough to teleport all of you away, so that you could regroup and better coordinate your attack."

"What's done is done, and we're all alive," Danica interjected and then lifted a singed curl in front of her face, "If not unscathed." She looked at her four friends in turn, each of whom had similar locks of damaged hair, the one thing Andrea hadn't been able to heal with her prayers.

"It gives us an excuse to do something new with our hair," Andrea said as she ran her fingers through her blonde locks.

Danica let out a little chuckle. "I hope we get the chance."

Terran said, "The demon has left the site of the battle, and I do not see him anywhere nearby."

"At least he's not coming here to wreak havoc, then," Celes said with a sigh, and then sat down heavily in a chair.

"If anyone has a map, I'll scry for him. I know enough about him now to pinpoint him, and it doesn't really matter if he knows we're scrying or where we're scrying from," Ashley suggested.

Danica rifled through her bag of holding and located a map of the continent. It didn't have much detail, but should allow Ashley to discern Mache's general location.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 12



After only a few revolutions of her scrying pendant, Ashley looked up from the map when the crystal slammed down on it.

"That's Nightmare Castle. Not a big surprise, considering what I learned when I managed to get inside the thing's filthy mind." Danica shuddered slightly as she remembered the chaos of the demon's mind, despite her brief contact with it.

Brandon made his way across the room toward Marlena, who sat in a corner trying to blend in with the wall.

Celes waved her hand in a beckoning gesture toward Danica. "Well, out with it now, Dearie. What did you dig up out of the refuse heap that monster calls a brain?"

"I only picked up just a few flashes, but it was enough to let us know a bit more about what we're dealing with. First, Mache dimly knows Zoraster. He's also quite familiar with Ebonar. Meckataur is his sire, and his mother was a human woman."

"That means he cannot be banished by normal means," Ashley explained for anyone who might not know.

"He's also not alone. He has four brothers and a sister. There's more, but it's all jumbled right now. I'll need to sit down somewhere quiet and sort through all these broken half-memories I picked up," Danica finished.

"Sorry we barged in without thinking much," Bear apologized.

Celes scoffed and then said, "No, you had the right of it. We needed to get the hell out of there. The damn thing called up a miniature volcano. We weren't ready for that. Your arrival was probably the distraction we needed to realize that and get ourselves somewhere safe."

Danica caught a concerned look on Brandon's face and walked over to talk to him and Marlena. "Are you all right, Marlena?"

"Just a little weak. Too many phantasms destroyed at once."

"You held them up, that's for certain. It kept the elementals off us and confused Mache enough for us to hold our ground. I think we'd have been in trouble a lot earlier without that."

"Really?"

"Absolutely. That's why he came after you at the end. He figured out that you were the one making everything crazy."

Marlena offered a weak smile, and Danica couldn't help but share it when she felt a genuine sense of accomplishment and self-confidence from the illusionist. Even the most minor acknowledgment of her own self worth was a great stride for the shy redhead. 

"I'm going to go put her to bed," Brandon said and stood.

Marlena's face filled with color and Danica stifled a chuckle. "She does probably need to rest," she agreed, still fighting the urge to laugh as Brandon realized Marlena was blushing and grinned about what had triggered her embarrassment.

"Do you think it's safe to send some wizards out there to make sure those fires are doused?" Janelle asked.

Danica looked to Ashley, who answered, "Yes, the demon is gone."

"I shall inform the college," Terran declared, and vanished on the wings of magic.

"I'll go tell the Commander to send a few men out there too. They might be able to find something, and they can help find any smoldering spots for the wizards." Janelle hung up her bow and walked through the room, pausing to kiss Marlena on the cheek as she left.

Bear stood and said, "We should all probably go, to spread the word about what really happened. Rumors are probably floating around already." 

Danica nodded her agreement as the remainder of the Companions stood. Each took a moment to offer a nod, word, or glance to the remaining five women, including Marlena.

"They really have forgiven me, haven't they," Marlena said softly.

"They're good people, and they understand that you felt you had no choice. You should give some thought to forgiving yourself, you know," Danica said with a smile as she took the illusionist's hand. "For now, though, go get some rest."

Marlena smiled back and let Brandon lead her out of the room. The familiarity between the illusionist and the wisecracking warrior was obvious to anyone who observed them.

"Them two are courting, even if they don't know it," Celes said once the couple had passed out of hearing range.

Danica nodded in agreement and said, "Here's to hoping we'll get the chance to throw her a wedding she'll never forget."

"I'll trim off the stinky burned spots for now," Andrea said, producing a pair of scissors she carried in a pouch similar to the ones the wizards wore to hold their spell components. "We'll worry about making it look good later."

Danica found it hard to disagree, as she could smell little more than her own burned hair. She sat down and let her blonde friend go to work with the scissors.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Mere females," Meckataur rumbled as his spawn knelt before him.

"Dangerous ones, and yet he has returned whole," Rexxus clarified.

The hulking devil growled, but then showed a toothy grin. "You grow strong, and you will grow stronger, my spawn."

"He has learned much of the mortals as well. I believe the witches were cautious in approaching him, and thus were not confident of his nature. Walking amongst the mortals will enable him to better cause chaos amongst them," Rexxus suggested.

"For now," Meckataur agreed.

"I will, of course, be pleased to offer my assistance once more in placing Mache amongst the populace."

Meckataur swept his razor-clawed wings through the holographic projection of Ebonar, knowing it for an illusion but needing an outlet for his rage. "You assume much, and risk much, mage."

The image of Ebonar bowed. "My apologies, Lord Meckataur. I observed the battle, and found your spawn to be most interesting. These females vex us both. I simply wish to assist us in finding mutual gain."

Meckataur didn't believe a word of it, and Ebonar didn't expect the Devil to.

"I believe I have the perfect position for Mache. I can place him within the growing army of Ferrartene in a position of lower rank. This will give him the opportunity to taste the blood and spoils of war, as well as learn tactics he can take advantage of in the future. Danica and her pack of bitches will find it far more difficult to escape detection within Ferrartene."

The Devil studied Ebonar's face, mulling over the offer. "So be it."

"Excellent. I do believe I may offer another source of mutual gain for our cause, as well as an opportunity to seek the elimination of Danica — if you are interested?"

"Speak on, Ebonar."

Ebonar knew he had the Devil where he wanted him when Meckataur spoke his name, but managed to hide his smile as he prepared to explain Zoraster's instructed course.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Celes sighed. "Well, this didn't go very well at all."

Danica argued, "We know a lot more than we did yesterday, and I'm sure I'll put together more from what I snatched from Mache's mind in time."

"This demon is incredibly powerful, probably stronger than Rexxus." Ashley took a sip of tea before continuing. "We're probably going to need a drop of its blood to make a potion strong enough to vanquish it. Either that, or the three of us need to come up with a spell. If Edna is right, we should be able to do that."

"All that rhyming makes my head hurt. It's completely alien to the way you cast spells with the Art," Celes complained.

Ashley laughed. "Andrea does well enough with the rhyming part. Your knowledge of wizard magic may be of help, though. There's a lot of thinking through the abilities and weaknesses the demon has when writing a spell to vanquish or summon it."

Andrea let out a little gasp as she put away her scissors, having just finished with Celes' hair. "Summon it? Why would you ever want to summon a demon?"

"To wring information out of them. Unfortunately, you have to know a lot about the individual demon to summon it. I know a couple of low level demons, but they've been banished, so they're only useful to me for the next hundred years or so for information about the hells."

Danica asked, "Do you know enough to maybe make a potion that will at least slow the thing down, or make it more vulnerable?"

"I think so. We won't be at nearly such a disadvantage if we come up against that one again."

"What if Danica can remember some about the powers of Mache's little demon brothers and sisters?" Celes asked.

"Anything we know about their powers, weaknesses, and personality can help brew potions, make charms, or come up with spells to combat them," Ashley answered. "I'd actually like to get home and start on that."

Celes stood up with a groan. "Well, I suppose we should probably all go. It's supposed to be the three of us."

"I'll stay here and let everyone know what we're doing, and get Marlena home once she's had a chance to rest. I'm going to try to meditate for a while and see if I can remember more of what I saw in Mache's mind." Danica then winked at Ashley and said, "I'll work on getting your cottage ready for you as soon as possible. That way you'll have your own space to work without all our wizard stuff in the way."

"Let's be off then," Celes said as she held out her hands.

Danica waved goodbye as Celes cast her spell. Once they vanished, she sat down cross-legged on the bed and closed her eyes to look within, in search of anything that might better help combat Mache and his demonic kin.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica opened her eyes with a sigh when her stomach rumbled loud enough that she could have sworn it echoed in the room. She'd managed to piece together a few of the fragmented thoughts she'd obtained from Mache's mind, but not many.

What she remembered was certainly more than they knew about Mache's demonic siblings before, and could only help. After writing down every detail that she could recall, Danica broke her fast with some muffins Janelle had brought in at some point during the day.

With her empty stomach appeased, Danica decided that she might as well return home for a real meal, and to see what Celes and the others had accomplished. Thinking that Marlena might still be asleep in the next room, Danica stretched out her consciousness to see if she could sense the illusionist.

She sucked in a sharp breath when she got far more than she'd bargained for.

Danica leaned back in her chair and parted her legs unconsciously. In attempting to touch Marlena's mind, she'd accidently formed a far deeper connection. Now, she found that she couldn't escape it — and she wasn't sure that she wanted to.

Though she knew she was still sitting in her chair, she also experienced the world from Marlena's point of view — rapidly approaching orgasm on Brandon's fast thrusting cock. Danica knew that Marlena had already reached her peak numerous times. She could feel the exhilarating, almost painful edge to the illusionist's swelling pleasure. She could see the strain in Brandon's face over Marlena's bouncing breasts. So deep was the psychic bond between them, that Danica could actually feel every thrust of his cock in her own depths.

Danica's breathing quickened with Marlena's as the illusionist soared toward climax. She cradled her breasts in her hands, mirroring Marlena's actions as the speed and power of Brandon's thrusts built to a crescendo.

Shockwaves of pleasure flowed through Danica's body as Brandon took them both hard and fast. Physically untouched, Danica knew that she was about to come. She'd experienced something similar before with Nara and Mara, the psychic sister having used her powers to link their pleasure, but this outstripped that by far. Danica felt as though she was one with Marlena, barely present in her own body.

Marlena's orgasm swelled within her with almost no warning. Her body contorted with pleasure, and so did Danica's. Though she banged her head hard on the back of the chair, Danica didn't even notice. She gushed girl cum, soaking her panties and her robe in seconds. Brandon continued to take them both at a furious pace, drawing out their orgasms until their cries of ecstasy made them both hoarse.

Danica yelped as Brandon drove his erect shaft home a final time with a loud growl to coat Marlena's walls with the hot culmination of his own pleasure. When she managed to catch her breath, Danica pouted as her arms closed around nothing. In the next room, Marlena pulled her lover to her as they both quivered from the lingering effects of their orgasms.

In that moment, Danica connected with something even deeper — from both of them. Her eyes misted up as she felt the shared love between the couple, something far deeper than a mere romp between the sheets. The rough-edged warrior held Marlena tight against him, kissing her as his manhood continued to throb inside her. Danica had discovered Brandon's softer side on several occasions, but nothing as strong as what he felt now.

Not wishing to intrude, Danica wrenched free of the mental contact with a sigh of half longing and half happiness.

The cool air against her soaked robes completely returned her to reality a moment later. As she stood, she could feel rivulets of wetness running down her ankles and noticed that the chair was in little better condition. Her knees still trembling slightly, Danica pulled at the belt of her robe to begin cleaning up.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"You are as mad as your dead Master," Meckataur growled after listening to Ebonar's proposal.

Several minor demons gibbered with laughter, until a glare from their hellish master caused them to go as silent as the dead that also filled the room.

Ebonar showed no concern for the host of demons and undead filling the grounds and hall of Nightmare Castle, which caused the castle's master to narrow his burning eyes in irritation. It did lend credence to his previous utterance, however. Anyone who stood amongst so many denizens of the lower planes and animated corpses without concern must be touched in the head.

"Surely you see the advantage of such a weapon, specifically crafted to strike at one who so vexes us both?"

"I will surrender none of my power to a mere mortal — let alone a female," Meckataur snarled, leaning in close to Ebonar.

"A temporary surrender — little more than an errant breeze within the storm of your power, Lord Meckataur. There are advantages to a human surrogate, are there not?" Ebonar glanced at the cleric, Mopario, and the wizardess, Arleen. "Such a small sacrifice, for such great potential gain."

The face of the redheaded woman coalesced in Meckataur's mind, prompting a low, rumbling growl. Without a doubt, Danica had proven a thorn in the Devil's side. From her failed banishment against him to the battle with his spawn, it seemed that the woman was determined to raise his ire. He had never considered the course Ebonar proposed, but then he had never considered the course of hiding his demon servants amongst the populace until recently, either. Meckataur could little deny the power that decision had brought into his hands.

"Allow me to bring her here, Lord Meckataur. I'm quite sure you will see the potential when it stands before you."

The Devil snorted and slowly uncurled his huge fist, gesturing off to one side in agreement.

Ebonar spoke the words of a spell and opened the portal. A moment later, Camilla stepped through. Unlike Ebonar, she paled at the sight of the enormous Devil and his host, which brought a toothy grin to Meckataur's muzzle.

Meckataur laughed. "She appears as any other weak female. Of what use is this one to me?"

"To us," Ebonar corrected. "She is skilled in the Art, and even more skilled in the art of torment. She has been provided with artifacts of great power, to further enhance her magic. The tattoos decorating her fair flesh are runic structures of great power and versatility. Most importantly, she despises Danica with every fibre of her being, and will do anything for the opportunity to impose excruciating pain upon our mutual bane."

Upon mention of Danica's name, Camilla forgot about the horrors around her and let her seething hatred flare white-hot within her. None had ever humiliated her as Danica had, and that knowledge gnawed at her every waking moment. Only when Danica died a slow, agonizing death would Camilla feel satisfaction for those humiliations.

Meckataur licked his lips and rumbled in a frightening approximation of a chuckle. Camilla's fury tasted like the sweetest wine to the demon lord — pure and undiluted. Rarely had Meckataur discovered such a vintage in any mortal.

"You would destroy this Danica, and all she holds dear?" Meckataur asked in a disturbingly soothing voice.

"I want her to suffer. I want her to beg for death. I want her to cease caring whether she lives or dies before I give her the release of oblivion," Camilla spat in answer, forgetting the fearful nature of the questioner in her blind rage.

His decision based more upon the almost demon-like hatred flowing from the woman than any word of Ebonar's, Meckataur continued. "I can give you the power to bring her pain beyond anything she has imagined in her worst nightmares, but you must accept it of your own free will. The power comes with a price, however. You will be mine for eternity."

Not quite as wholly as you believe, Meckataur, Ebonar thought, but kept his face and manner impassive.

"Eternity too can be yours," Meckatuar added, sensing the vanity of the woman. "You will stay young and vital for so long as you serve me well." The Devil could feel the greed swelling within Camilla as he spoke, strengthening his resolve in his decision.

"Give me this power. No price is too great to see that bitch die horribly by my hand."

"You accept this bargain of your own free will?"

"Yes," Camilla emphatically declared.

Meckataur stepped forward, tearing away the dragonskin kilt covering his loins. In one single stride, the Devil stood directly before Camilla. Though small in comparison to the rest of his immense form, his erect manhood nevertheless filled Camilla's vision.

She needed no instruction, as her acceptance of the unholy pact had already formed a bond between her and the Devil. She wrapped her hand around the organ, sliding back the scaly foreskin to reveal the scarlet tip beneath.

Though the giving of pleasure, especially to a male, defied her nature, Camilla forced her lips around the engorged member. Her lips and tongue burned from the heat of him, even as her jaw ached from opening wide enough to accept him. The strengthening bond between demon and slave soon overwhelmed her pain, her desire to please her new Master filling her mind. She stroked his burning organ in her mouth, seeking the promised reward of power.

The Devil gripped Camilla's hair, forcing her deeper onto his manhood, gagging her as the thick phallus pressed against the back of her tongue. Deep into the rapture of the joining now, Camilla fought down her gorge and continued to suck, her scraping teeth enhancing the demon's pleasure, rather than blocking it.

Spittle dripped from Camilla's chin as the Devil forced his cock into her mouth, and she could feel the already too-large member swelling. Finally, the demon roared, filling her mouth with a molten eruption of his demon seed. Camilla greedily swallowed, feeling the ecstasy of power flooding her every pore. When Meckataur at last withdrew, Camilla threw her head back and gasped. Her body trembled, and flames crackled from the palms of her hands, now curled into claws.

"The female is strong," Meckataur growled, revealing just a hint of his surprise.

Ebonar smiled, almost able to see the newfound power within Camilla, which grew by the moment as the bond between her and the Devil settled into her body. "She will serve us both well."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Zoraster's cackle echoed through the room. Within his scrying mirror, Zoraster watched Camilla slowly raise her head. He laughed again as he saw the realization in her eyes. Though she had gained great power, she now understood the cost as well. She belonged to the demon — body, mind, and soul.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 12



Or so Meckataur believed.

"And so is your punishment complete, Camilla."

The Archmage darkened the mirror, knowing it would be some time before he could unleash the newly born black witch. She needed time to acclimate to her new powers, and take advantage of her ability to steal the powers of demons and witches.

Zoraster's head snapped toward a mirror set apart from all the others, a special mirror attuned to something unique — and critical. The mirror had flashed for only a moment, just long enough for Zoraster to see a glimpse of an underground cavern lit by a flowing river of lava, and then a windswept isle of barren rock.

"The underworld — one step closer," Zoraster hissed, spinning on his heel without even dismissing the magic of the other mirrors.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Hope you're enjoying Book II of Danica's story. Thanks to Roust for his editing, as always. Big thanks to all of you reading and commenting on the tale as well.

Please do vote and comment. That's all the payment we receive as free authors. That's what keeps us coming back for more. If you're a Lit member, you could always add me to your favorites as well. That will let you quickly locate my stories without searching, and it tickles me to see my favorites number go up ~_^



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 13



Author's Notes:

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission.

© Darkniciad 2007

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

I've made a change in this chapter that will continue from this point forward. Telepathic communication will now be in italics, and also set off by single quotes in order to distinguish it from normal thoughts.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Naturally, he'd remember the most about the female," Celes said with a roll of her eyes after reviewing Danica's transcription of everything she could remember.

Sitting in the comfortable confines of the manor's massive study, Danica and her friends contemplated what to do next. Copies of Danica's notes lay upon the large oaken table at the center of the study, bathed in the subdued light of the magical globes dotting the ceiling above.

The two days of rest had done wonders for the physical maladies of the battle with Mache, but all five women still felt the sting of having failed to defeat the demon.

Ashley smoothed back her hair, the shorter length still unfamiliar and slightly uncomfortable. "It's enough to prepare us far better to face her than what we knew about Mache."

Danica sympathized with Ashley's nervous gesture, as she struggled to acclimate to her own shorter hair as well. "And we have a general idea about the others, too. Thanatos concerns me the most. Mache felt cautious of that sibling, and it can't be a good thing for a demon that powerful to have reason for concern."

Ashley nodded in agreement. "I think we should return to our plan to capture one of the minor demons. There are some spells that only work on living demons."

"We can always try to work our way up the ranks from the bottom," Danica suggested. "I might be able to pick a minor demon's leader from its head, and then do the same with that one."

"At least one of us needs to pop out for some stores," Celes reminded Danica.

Danica sat back in her chair and quickly skimmed over the inventory of things running low. "Probably to Fightershaven. Some of the things Andrea isn't growing here yet, that you use in your witchcraft, are only used for darker magic of the Art, and they'll be easier to find there."

"I'll go," Andrea offered, perking up for the first time since sitting down at the table.

Danica could feel a wave of excitement washing toward her from the blonde, one that had swelled over a wall of cabin fever upon mention of a trip outside the manor. The young woman obviously needed some time away, and Blackhawk Hall was as safe a place as any. Besides the magical defenses crafted and tested over numerous years, the city now held numerous powerful clerics of Heraklan, provided to Mindblind by his half-brother, Vladamir, who headed the order in Egoria.

'Should one of us go with her?' Celes thought to Danica.

'I think she'll be fine, and she needs to get out, but I imagine Marlena would like to go along anyway,' Danica thought back.

Danica's mental words carried with them impressions of Marlena and Brandon, and Celes nearly chuckled out loud instead of through the telepathic link. 'I hadn't thought about that.'

"Marlena knows the pattern, so she can take you, Andrea." The grin that broke out on Marlena's face told Danica that she was right.

"Ashley and I can take care of finding a demon to snare and getting ready. Andrea can skip all the tedious part and just learn the spell chant before we leave," Celes said with a nod of her head.

"I really need to concentrate on Ashley's cottage, so everyone knows where they can find me," Danica said, gesturing toward her favorite worktable, where the finished cottage sat awaiting enchantment.

"I need to put a few more things on the list before you go," Ashley interjected.

"I'll go fetch the coin," Marlena said, her eagerness to see Brandon at Blackhawk Hall becoming more evident by the second.

Andrea hopped up and said, "I'm going to go change."

"May as well send along some money for them to get some new clothes and such. We could all probably do with a shopping trip soon," Celes suggested.

"I'll catch Marlena," Ashley laughed.

"Mind giving me a hand gathering up my spell components?" Danica asked, batting her eyelashes at the dark-haired witch.

Celes rolled her eyes and shook her head. "Come along then," she chuckled.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica sat back with a thankful sigh, half of the preparatory spells she needed to cast over Ashley's cottage now in place. The smell of lunch cooking in the kitchen let her know that it was nearly midday, but not quite. She'd completed the spells in near record time. With any luck, she might be able to weave the other half of the spells in the evening, and then bring the cottage to life the next day.

Glancing across the room at Celes and Ashley, Danica saw the two witches continuing their observation of the demon they'd chosen to capture. Ashley was already concerned because the hellspawn was convincingly disguised as a human — if a dim-witted one — when such should have been far beyond its power. Fortunately, the creature's unusual abilities did not appear to include the power to detect Ashley's skillful scrying, enabling the two witches to continuously observe it throughout the morning. 

A mental chime announced the arrival of something in the message bowl, bringing a smile to Danica's lips. She scooted back her chair and grinned when the two witches sharing the study didn't even notice her rising. Stepping around the table, she crossed the stone-tiled floor of the lab, passed around the edge of the common room on the carpeted pathway, and nudged her partially open door with a flick of her telekinetic power. Upon seeing the box in the message bowl with the letter, she knew it was from Damian.

Danica read the letter, which was mostly details of the ring in the box, but also included some personal correspondence and observations of the efforts to counter Zoraster and the demons. He also noted that Darkniciad planned to send a more detailed summary of the ongoing work in the near future.

Danica couldn't resist opening the stunningly beautiful box, crafted of cedar. Within, a velvet cushion supported the ring for Edna. The band was formed of intertwined silver and gold, supporting a stone of aquamarine. Damian had chosen a fluted, heart-shaped cut, the likes of which Danica had never seen before. The stone was a deep, sea blue, the flutes looking almost like waves breaking over the sparkling surface.

More important than the beauty of the ring, it housed the same protective magic that defended Danica and her friends. While everything that they'd learned indicated that the valley would let none accost them, and Edna had little desire to leave, Danica knew she would feel better once the elder witch wore the ring.

Danica's lips twitched up into a smile as it occurred to her that there was one other thing that everyone else had that Edna didn't. She closed the ring box and sat it down on the table, crossing to her desk that she used when she felt the need for solitude in her work. Pulling out a sheet of paper and a pen, she turned her thoughts to the perfect toy for Edna.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Oh, I ate too much," Andrea groaned as she stepped out into the busy street.

With much of the shopping for necessities done and the supplies on the way to Blackhawk Hall, Marlena had suggested a stop for something to eat before finishing up. She and Andrea could then turn their attention to the much more pleasurable task of shopping for themselves.

"I warned you," Marlena cajoled her with a playful smile.

Andrea stuck out her tongue for a second and responded, "I couldn't help it. It was so good, and it's so hard to resist when people are serving you."

Marlena rolled her eyes and sighed, "Country girl."

As if the good-natured teasing wouldn't have done so anyway, hearing it from the usually reserved Marlena cheered Andrea. She'd worried that the illusionist might put a damper on her much needed excursion, and she was pleased to find otherwise.

She had a strong suspicion that Brandon coming off duty in a few hours had a great deal to do with that.

Marlena grabbed the blonde witch's arm and pulled her back a half step just as someone charged down the street, running from a pair of shouting men in leather armor. Quietly, Marlena mouthed the words of a spell as her fingers flew through the gestures. The fleeing thief dug in his heels and tried to stop when an ogre suddenly appeared directly in his path. When he fell unceremoniously to the ground, the two guardsmen quickly grabbed him with a laugh.

"Why did he just stop like that and fall down?" Andrea asked with a laugh, shaking her head as the thief looked around in confusion and his pursuers hauled him to his feet.

"He thought he saw an ogre," Marlena explained, wiggling her fingers.

"Oh, that's too wonderful." Andrea laughed again. She looked down the street and said, "Look."

Marlena followed the blonde's gaze and saw a woman stomping down the street toward the soldiers and the thief. One of the soldiers handed her a leather purse, and the woman promptly slapped the thief hard across the mouth. She then held her hand up in front of her with a look of disgust, and promptly punched the man in the nose. He went limp in his captor's arms.

The guardsmen were both wiping tears of laughter from their eyes as one of them prevented the victimized woman from kicking the downed thief and the other dragged him farther away.

"It's a lot different here from the capital," Andrea remarked, still chuckling.

"Fightershaven is not a place for the unwary," Marlena agreed. "There's not so much law and order here as a carefully balanced chaos. Let's finish the shopping, and then you can help me pick out something new — maybe something a little more daring than I'm used to."

Andrea grinned, happy with yet another sign that Marlena was coming out of her shell. "Okay."

"I think I saw an herbalist down the street as we were headed this way. We'll try there."

Andrea nodded and fell into step with the illusionist, taking in the contrast between Fightershaven and what she'd observed in the only other large city she'd ever visited, the capital city of Egoria.

Here, more wore armor than walked the street in normal clothing. Weapons of various sorts were in evidence everywhere, even on the belts of children barely more than toddlers. While the streets and buildings certainly weren't the masterpieces of architecture common to the city center of Egoria, everything was well maintained and solid.

Blackhawk Hall didn't have a district of the rich and powerful surrounding it like Boldheart Castle. Instead, the closest building was a brothel. As Marlena had suggested, a subtle undercurrent of chaos permeated everything. People jostled each other as they walked, and the sound of voices raised in anger was far from uncommon. Voices raised in laughter and drunken song were equally evident, however.

As she and Marlena neared the herbalist's shop, Andrea saw a pair of men, stripped to the waist, engaged in a wrestling match across the street. The small green space would have been called a park, if it hadn't been allowed to grow as it wished. Several other people stood around the two men, cheering them on. More arrived by the moment. Both men were well muscled and attractive, catching Andrea's eye.

"Watch it!"

Andrea snapped her gaze back in front of her, just in time to collide with a young man walking the opposite way. "Oh — I'm sorry," she apologized, and suddenly her eyes locked with his. His eyes were a startling blue, and the rest of him was no less heart-stopping.

Marlena's eyebrows twitched up as she recovered from her start, having not noticed the young man either in glancing at the wrestling match. She certainly noticed him now, staring back at Andrea just as hard as she was staring at him. Marlena feigned a cough, and saw them both blink at the same time.

"It's all right," the young man said with a shrug as he stepped off to the side of the cobblestone road. He hesitated for a moment before continuing on his way.

Marlena couldn't help but chuckle when both Andrea and the young man turned to look at each other at the same time. Both turned away just as rapidly when they realized the other had noticed.

"Handsome, isn't he?"

Andrea's cheeks filled with color and she giggled. "Yes." She looked back over her shoulder for a second and sighed. She took a step toward the herbalist's shop, which they'd nearly reached, but paused when Marlena held up a hand.

With a wide grin, Marlena leaned in close and whispered, "You might want to wait a minute or two. You probably should have worn your brassiere today."

Andrea glanced down to see her stiff nipples tenting the cloth of her blouse in a rather prominent fashion. "Oh my," she gasped in embarrassment, and hunched her shoulders forward to cause the blouse to hang away from her body.

Marlena peeked into the shop and said, "It looks like the herbalist is a woman, so you should be all right." She took the blonde witch's hand and led the blushing woman inside, doing her best not to laugh, and yet knowing she would probably look just as foolish the moment she saw Brandon.

She quickly shook that thought out of her head before she ended up in the same condition as her young friend.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica finished her sketch with a final flourish, pleased with her design. Edna's disability and age presented a unique challenge, and Danica believed that what she planned to make addressed those needs well.

Danica tucked away the sheets of paper into a desk drawer, picked up a letter from her sister, and then left her room, returning to the study. She found Celes and Ashley sitting with the raven-haired witch's family tome open before them.

"What have you been about?" Celes asked with a crooked grin.

"Nothing," Danica answered with a sweet smile. Celes shook her head, knowing all too well that she'd wring no information from her friend. Danica took a seat across from the two women and asked, "I take it that you've found something?"

"Ashley managed to penetrate its disguise, so we know exactly what we're dealing with," Celes explained, turning the book toward Danica.

Danica read the entry on the Ladroth demon, which fed upon a very specific type of fear — the fear of financial distress. The illustration at the top of the page showed a jet-black demon that closely resembled an imp, if larger in stature. The beautiful, flowing script detailed a breed of demon possessed the ability to amplify the fears it fed upon, and to blend in with its surroundings so well that it might appear invisible while remaining still. The creatures were also known to have inborn skills that would put many pickpockets and burglars to shame. A notation in a different hand at the end of the entry mentioned that the demons were hated by other demons because they served as spies in the hells.

When Danica looked up from the book, Celes continued, "This one is growing fat and lazy off a merchant that's fallen on dire straits. We've also noticed that its ability to hide in plain sight doesn't work so well in the human form somebody has given it."

"Combine that with a very specific spell to capture it, and it's a good choice," Ashley added. "With the three of us blessing the crystals, we could probably keep it imprisoned until the end of time."

Celes tapped her finger on the polished surface of the table and said, "We're hoping the critter has been spying on the other demons."

"That would be nice, if we can wring anything out of it," Danica agreed. She laid the letter from her sister on the table and said, "The news from Devan isn't as good, I'm afraid. Nobody can manage to scry into Nightmare Castle — even Darkni. Egoria's troops are bolstering Normandal's forces against the goblins, but the ugly things are boiling out of the forests like ants. So far the combined armies are holding, but Thakkor may have to send more troops and wizards before long."

Edna walked up to the table and said, "More confirmation that Meckataur has opened a doorway to the hells. Scrying is one of a witch's most powerful allies, and the hells distort any attempt to do so."

"So you think it's working against wizard magic, too?" Danica asked.

"Magic is magic," Edna said with a wink. "When you get right down to it, everything from a priest's answered prayer to a wizard's thunderbolt comes from the same place, the energy of creation."

Danica smiled and said, "I see you're wearing your ring."

Edna laughed and admired the ring. "I wouldn't take it off even if it weren't magic. You sent my note of thanks?"

"Of course, but knowing it's on your finger is all the thanks Damian wants."

Edna gestured toward the note. "That's all part of it too. Meckataur is powerful, but without the chaos this Zoraster and his people have sown in the world, he could have never breached the hells. He feeds on the madness to grow stronger."

"And Ebonar takes advantage of the demons." Celes threw up a hand and let out a disgusted snort to illustrate her frustration.

"So we step on their toes every chance we get," Danica countered. "I think we should try to work out a way to get the Forge out from under Ebonar's thumb. We already have a good argument to stand on after Mache."

Celes shrugged. "Not a bad idea. Damn sure that a lot of the leaders on the other side came out of the Forge. The whole of the Western Baronies respects the Commander, too."

"Later, though. Work on capturing your demon. I think the demons are the more dangerous threat right now." Danica stood and stretched her back. "I'm going to finish the last of the preparatory enchantments on Ashley's cottage."

Celes concentrated for a moment and teleported a pen from her worktable into her hand. "Here's to hoping it doesn't have any powers we don't know about."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

A ball of black, crackling evil energy leapt from Camilla's palm to strike the demon. The creature exploded with a scream, and Camilla shuddered as she felt its power surge into her. She extended her finger, and a single drop of acid fell to hiss on the cracked stone floor below.

"Enough. Let her steal her power from witches, now," Meckataur growled, the echoing sound dislodging a shower of dust from the ceiling high above.

Camilla could feel the power of the six demons she'd vanquished roiling within her. Though only minor creatures in disfavor because they maintained loyalty to another Devil still within the hells, their combined powers would serve the new black witch well. Though she wished to test her new powers against Danica, the thought of destroying disgustingly pure witches was hardly unwelcome.

"A grimoire would greatly increase her usefulness, my Lord and Evil Master." Rexxus spoke carefully, knowing that the Devil's patience with him was wearing thin. "Your gain might be two-fold, as well."




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 13



Meckataur narrowed his eyes and stared down his demon servant. "Speak, Rexxus. Your groveling disgusts me."

"I know of a witch in servitude to S'nirix," Rexxus explained with a toothy grin.

The Devil's muscles bulged as Meckataur straightened to his full height and clenched his clawed hands. S'nirix was a favored subordinate of B'Lasco, the Archdevil that had transformed Meckataur from man to demon. "To destroy this witch risks the intervention of B'Lasco, and I am not ready to challenge him — yet."

"Only if a Devil destroys her," Rexxus reminded the towering Devil, now enveloped in a shroud of dancing hellfire in his anger. "S'nirix may be angered, but B'Lasco will not interfere in the squabbling of human servants."

"S'nirix's witch will be powerful," Meckataur countered, though the flames surrounding him winked out and a gleam of malicious consideration appeared in the Devil's eyes.

"But only a powerful witch. This one has other weapons. I believe her strong enough to defeat the witch."

The Devil's muzzle split into an evil grin and Meckataur let out a rumbling chuckle as he stepped down from the dais at the head of his throne room. The demon lord's clawed feet tore chunks from the ancient marble, covering a distance in two strides that would have taken twice that number for a mortal. S'nirix allied with another Devil that Meckataur very much wanted to locate, Tanarax. After tasting the hints of black power in one of Tanarax's witches, through his spawn Thanatos, Meckataur could frequently think of little else.

"A final test of your worthiness, then," Meckataur commanded, one taloned finger tracing Camilla's neck.

"I will make her wish for the release of death," Camilla responded with a shudder.

"So be it," Meckataur commanded, and then leapt into the air. A whirlwind of broken masonry and marble dust swirled around Rexxus and Camilla as the Devil spread his wings and took flight.

Below, a malicious grin spread across Rexxus' face. Though his suggestion truly did serve his Master, it was revenge against the witch that had once injured him that most motivated the demon. Camilla's expression was much the same, as torturing a black witch was no less appealing than tormenting a white witch.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Hearing Camilla's thoughts through the rune on her forehead, a twin to the one decorating Zoraster's brow, the Archmage nodded in approval and allowed his senses to focus on his own location once more.

Caterina's blonde hair danced as she enthusiastically sucked her Master's erection, but the look on Zoraster's face registered little of pleasure.

Twin irritations sullied his enjoyment of Caterina's considerable oral skill, the inability to discern more about the dark energy he sought, and her weakness from the blood she had offered to power his cloning magic. Paying little attention to the woman kneeling between his legs, he stared at the black stone wall, fuming over the evasiveness of the power he tasted every time he held Godsbane in his hand. 

The power called to him, and yet evaded him. He had once assumed that the gods stymied his efforts to find the stone, but vanishing from their sight had brought him no closer to finding the intriguing source of Godsbane's power.

No matter, he thought, wrenching away from the rumination. When the time is ripe, I will wrest this world from the chains of the gods without the power of the stone.

A warm prickling sensation swelled within his loins, his body responding to Caterina's mouth despite his dark mood. With a growl, he twined his fingers in her hair, directing her to take him deeper. She choked and coughed as his cock slipped into the entrance of her throat, and Zoraster's lips curled up into a mocking grin. He let her take control again, but left his fingers fisted in her blonde tresses.

His pleasure swelled, and the Archmage stiffened, on the verge of climax. With a loud hiss, he once more forced her down over his manhood, holding her there as he spurted his seed directly into her throat. Once again, she choked, but quickly closed her lips around him. Her cheeks puffed out as her throat continued to rebel against the viscous fluid, but she let not a single drop escape, eventually mastering her discomfort to swallow.

"Ah, most pleasing," he moaned as he allowed her to move, his passion spent.

"Thank you, Master," Caterina responded with a smile that was a marked contrast to her misty eyes and the tears decorating her cheeks.

"Take your rest. Tomorrow, we begin our work anew."

Rising up from her knees before his cushioned chair, the nude blonde bowed her head and left the room without further comment. Zoraster flipped his robe closed over his softening manhood and withdrew the obsidian obelisk. "Ah, my temptress, how you vex me," he murmured as he turned the powerful artifact in his hand. He could feel the power — and the rage — of the god Blorcasir within. Mocking laughter bubbled up from the Archmage and he said, "Fear not, impotent godling. Soon enough, you'll have company."

Once again he laughed, the mad, evil cackle echoing back from the walls.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"We've got company," Marlena whispered to Andrea as the pair walked onto the flagstone courtyard surrounding Blackhawk Hall behind the porter carrying the last of their purchases.

Andrea's cheeks filled with color as she recognized the young man from earlier in the day rapidly approaching. He dodged through the increasingly rowdy and drunken crowd, his eyes locked on Andrea. He didn't even see the guard stepping out to bar his way until nearly colliding with the chainmail-clad warrior.

Andrea grinned, the expression having a slightly satisfied quality that revealed the blonde witch's amusement at having ensnared the young man. "I should probably go talk to him, and make sure he doesn't get in trouble."

Marlena nodded and smiled back, but her expression darkened as Andrea walked away. Having grown up in the city, Marlena knew all too well that city boys were an entirely different breed from the rural boys Andrea had limited experience with.

"Not to worry," the porter said, attracting Marlena's attention.

Marlena's eyebrows popped up and she turned toward the woman carrying the outfits she and Andrea had purchased. "Hmm?"

The brunette chuckled and winked. "No need to worry about your friend. Christi takes the safety and comfort of her guests very seriously. You've had at least two of her personal spies shadowing you every second of the day waiting for trouble. She's certainly safe enough here with all the guards, but she'll be just as safe anywhere in the city."

"It's not really physical dangers I'm worried about," Marlena replied, unmoved.

The woman nodded. "True enough, that. Not much anyone can do there."

"I suppose I'm being a little over protective."

Marlena looked back toward Andrea, and couldn't miss that the blonde was sending out signals of attraction that would have registered on a rock, let alone a man. A nudge from the porter drew her attention away from Andrea, and what she saw caused her to start sending her own unconscious signals to Brandon, who approached from the massive ironbound doors of the keep.

"Hello, beautiful," Brandon greeted the illusionist once he reached her.

Brandon glistened with sweat, which wasn't surprising between the heat and his armor. While he looked sexy, it gave him a distinctive — and not exactly pleasant — scent. "How about a bath, first?" Marlena begged when he opened his arms to hug her.

Brandon chuckled and clapped his arms down at his side. "I probably reek like something two days dead, huh?"

"It's not all that bad." Marlena glanced over Brandon's shoulder and noticed the Duchess approaching. As always, she marveled at how the guardsmen and other denizens of the Hall treated her more as a comrade than a ruler. Instead of bowing, her subjects waved and nodded greetings.

"How's that bunch doing?" Christi asked when she reached the couple, the question obviously directed to Brandon.

"Most of 'em ain't bad. I'll probably have to let them smack around the two lazy ones a bit, though."

"Don't be afraid to put them out if they don't have what it takes. We need more soldiers, but not bad enough to keep weak links." Christi then looked toward Andrea and her young suitor for a second before turning to Marlena. "I checked him out. He only arrived yesterday, but he's already found work with a smith."

"I suppose I should stop trying to mother her," Marlena responded, but her tone couldn't even convince her, let alone Brandon or Christi.

"Let me play mother hen. I had a bath drawn, because I knew he was going to need one. Why don't you share it?"

A wide smile broke out on Marlena's face at that prospect.

Christi laughed and shooed the couple toward the keep. "Go on, then. I'll go talk to Andrea for a minute to impress upon her young man that we have a special interest in her. Even a newcomer should know enough to tread lightly, then."

Believing in her host, Marlena let out a little sigh of relief. "Thank you, Christi." She then took Brandon's hand, leading him toward Blackhawk Hall and the respite of the bath.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Tortfird sat back with a sigh as two beautiful blonde women sensually lathered his chest. He slipped his hands between the women's legs, drawing a moan from one, and a giggle from the other. He planned to put more than his fingers there soon enough.

Sitting in a lounge chair nearby, Ebonar observed, "I trust my choice of servants for your visit meet with your approval?"

"Doesn't take much to improve over that fat pig you have me toying with, but yeah, these two will do nicely."

Ebonar chuckled. "Only the finest, in exchange for such fine work on my behalf."

Tortfird groaned and smiled as one of the women sharing the bath with him wrapped her hand around his erection. "I still don't see the point in pushing the bloated do-gooder to gain even more favor with the goddess of leaky tits." As though the statement had sparked his imagination, the rogue leaned down to suck on the right nipple of the woman stroking his cock.

"In due time. In due time. Push her to attain her potential in her order with every ounce of your vaunted charm, and do keep her well fucked." Ebonar stood and smoothed out his clothing, preparing to take his leave.

"At least the shit is tight. That's the one good thing about pigs — nobody stretching their cunts out."

"The silver lining, of course," Ebonar responded while using his boot to flip the edge of an expensive eastern carpet Tortfird had requested for his room flat to the floor once more.

Tortfird pulled the two women against him and said, "Got my silver lining right here."

"Do enjoy," Ebonar said as he stepped out the door. His boots clicked upon the stone in the hall only once before he vanished in a flash of light. Upon reappearing in his private chambers, an image of Zoraster immediately greeted him.

"Well done, Ebonar."

Ebonar bowed to his Master. "She should attain the favor to summon her goddess soon." "And the corpse of the witch?"

"Our necromancers are prepared. Her demon master will be most vexed when he loses his newest plaything."

"Excellent. Now, to attend to the difficulties in the east. Danica's interference has rendered my original design obsolete, so I have devised a new — albeit cruder — course of action." The hazy image of Zoraster gestured toward his servant's obsidian desk, and a sheaf of papers appeared there.

Ebonar sat down and perused the documents, a wide smile spreading across his face. "I see you found my suggestion suitable."

"With some modification, but yes. The drums of war will sound across the sea."

"I will contact our agents immediately."

"Make preparations for Danica to interfere again. I may yet regain that prize if she can be forced into hasty action."

"Consider it done," Ebonar responded as his Master vanished from the room, as eager as the Archmage to gain revenge upon the infuriating woman.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Done," Danica sighed with satisfaction as she completed the final spell. She nodded to Celes as her friend gathered up the remaining tiny china bowls filled with spell components on the table to put them away.

Ashley leaned over the cottage, looking into the nooks and crannies of the balsa wood model to marvel at Danica's work. "So you can enchant it tomorrow, then?"

"As long as nothing comes up. I'll need to tap into Celes and Marlena's magic to manage it, though. You might want to wait to go after that demon."

Celes returned to the table and blew a raspberry. "Nonsense. All we need to do is corner the beastie and rhyme it into a cage."

"She's right. The hardest part should be cornering the demon away from others," Ashley agreed.

Danica smiled and shrugged, but rapidly followed that with a yawn. "I'll defer to the two of you on that, then. Right now, I need a nap. I pushed a little hard with those last couple of spells."

Celes nodded. "I thought you looked a little strained at the end. Want me to wake you in an hour or so? That way you won't overdo your nap and have trouble sleeping tonight."

"Please. We should all get our rest before tomorrow, I guess."

"So who wants to remind Marlena about that?" Celes noted with a chuckle.

Danica laughed as she stood up, pushing her heavy chair back. She knew full well that Brandon would probably keep Marlena up late and wear her out. "Well, the rest of us should, anyway."

A silent chime echoing in her head let Danica know that yet another message had arrived in her magical bowl. Danica tapped her forehead to indicate the arrival of the missive to her friends and said, "That may be from Darkniciad. So much for the nap, if it is."

"Nothing that can't wait for you to rest for a while," Celes argued.

"Okay — okay. I'll just peek, and then go straight to bed," Danica responded as she walked toward her room.

Having fallen in behind her, Celes said, "I'll just make sure of that by taking it with me as soon as you've looked at it."

Turning at the threshold of the lab, Danica looked over her shoulder as she walked along the edge of the common room to blow a raspberry at her friend, one of Celes' favorite gestures. "I'm not that tired."

"Keep on sassing me and I might just turn you over my knee," Celes mockingly warned, enjoying the banter with her friend.

Danica thrust her bottom back toward Celes and let out a purr. "That's hardly discouraging," she said as she pushed open her polished cherry-wood door. When she looked down in the bowl, she said, "Oh, it looks like Heather's handwriting."

Danica picked up the note and her brow furrowed almost immediately. Celes glanced over the redhead's shoulder as Danica read and said, "No more reason to skip your nap than something from Darkni." The note said that Heather was worried about an aunt who lived in Normandal, having just heard about the goblin invasion.

After a deep breath and a rub of her eyes, Danica nodded her head and sighed. "I may be a little more worn out than I thought. I do want to go see if I can find this aunt, though."

"I'll go with you — after your nap."

"Pour me a glass of water?" Danica asked with a girlish pout.

"You're incorrigible," Celes chuckled as she picked up the pitcher, the water sloshing as she used it to punctuate the statement with a gesture."

"Yes, but you love me."

"Mmm hmm," Celes agreed as she poured Danica's drink.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Water sloshed out of the tub, a great wave that actually buoyed up Marlena's breasts as the illusionist cried out in orgasm. Brandon gripped her hips tight, his fast-thrusting manhood driving her to new heights with every deep penetration. Through the fog of ecstasy and her own sounds of pleasure, Marlena could hear her lover grunting from the effort of holding back his own climax. "Come w-with me," she begged.

"Ah — yeah," Brandon gasped, a little catch in his voice. Two thrusts later, he let out a loud growl and buried his cock in her depths. His hips pressed hard against her bottom, Brandon grunted and gasped as he flooded Marlena's canal with cum.

Eventually, Marlena's white-knuckled grip on the edge of the tub relaxed, and she quietly said, "Oh — that was so wonderful, Brandon. I love you."

"I love you, too," Brandon echoed in a weak sigh.

Marlena crossed her arms and lay her head down on them, reveling in the continuing ripples of orgasmic energy running through her, and the feeling of Brandon's hard cock buried inside her. "Do you know how good it feels to hear you say that?"

Brandon let out a halting chuckle and trembled enough to stir the water of the bath as the tight squeeze of her walls triggered a violent aftershock within him. "Never thought I'd say it — seriously anyway."

"You are serious, aren't you?"

"Yeah. You're going to ruin my reputation, you know?"

"I can live with that." Marlena turned her palm toward her eyes, seeing wrinkles in her fingertips. "We should probably get out of here. I'm already all pruney." She then looked over her shoulder at Brandon and said, "I want some wine."

"A'ight," Brandon answered, and then took two deep breaths before pulling free of the warm, comfortable recesses of Marlena's cum-filled pussy.

Marlena let out a sad moan as he withdrew, but then shivered from the chill that his flared tip popping from between her labia caused. She turned back toward him and kissed him. "White, please."

"I'll grab it from Mindblind's rack. He's got Vladamir's stuff."

"Are you trying to get me drunk so you can take advantage of me?" Marlena asked, tickling his chest hairs with one finger.

"Do I really need to?"

Marlena laughed. "No. Nothing too strong, though. I don't want to have a headache in the morning."

"The healers say sex is good for a headache."

"You won't need that excuse, either," the illusionist hinted as she ascended the steps out of the tub.

Brandon stared in loving admiration at her back, rivulets of water flowing down Marlena's body over her taut bottom and her shapely legs. "Gods, you're beautiful."

Marlena grinned and said, "Thank you. Now get dressed, get us some wine, and come meet me in bed."

That was all the encouragement Brandon needed.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica sat on the edge of her bed, still trying to wake up after her nap. "Maybe I should talk to Devan. She's in Normandal, so she might know the area where Heather's aunt lives. I have a general idea, but the closest place I know of to teleport to is miles away."

"Want to help me experiment with my gift, then?" Celes asked.

Danica tossed her patchwork quilt off her legs and asked, "What's that?"

"I was playing around with my gift, trying to get a handle on it, and thought about home. The next thing I knew, I could see it through the mists. I thought about a few other places, and I could see all of them. I've been meaning to try going through, but thought I should let someone know what I was doing first."

"Do you think you could focus in on the Osbord river or the village Heather mentions, Haryford?"

"I can try. I managed to see something that I assume was Destindale, since that was what I was thinking of. You've talked about it, but I've never actually been there — at least outside your shop."

Danica stood up and stretched. "Try that again. If I can see it, I'll know if it's Destindale."

"Here we go, then." Celes closed her eyes and concentrated, calling upon her gift.

Faint clouds coalesced in front of Celes, growing more opaque by the second. In short order, the mists hid the shelves of knickknacks on the opposite wall, and Danica could just make out the beginning of something swirling within the cloud of magical vapors.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 13



Danica laughed. "That's Destindale, alright. My shop is just down the road."

Celes let her concentration lapse, and the image within the mists vanished, though the gently swirling cloud remained.

"We may as well try it. At worst, we won't be any farther away than we are now. Let me tell Ashley what we're doing."

Celes nodded her understanding, and then Danica closed her eyes, searching for the redheaded witch within the manor. When she found Ashley's thoughts, she telepathically said, 'Ashley, Celes and I are going to go out and try to find someone that one of my friends is worried about.'

Ashley replied back, 'Celes told me about it while you were napping. Just call if you need me. I may look a little funny, though. The girls want to do my hair and put makeup on me.'

'Good luck,' Danica thought to her with a mental chuckle. She then turned to Celes and asked, "Do you think we should tell Marlena and Andrea?"

"Marlena probably wouldn't appreciate the interruption, and Andrea needs a little time away from things, I think."

"Well, let's give it a shot, then. Let me throw on something that isn't rumpled from sleeping in it and grab my bag."

Intrigued, Celes turned her attention back to her gift. "I'm going to try to see something while you get ready."

Danica nodded and pulled off the light robe she'd worn all day as she walked around the mists to her closet to search for something to wear, picking up her bag of holding along the way.

Dressed in a functional blouse and skirt, Danica returned to Celes' side. She stared into the mists and asked, "Is that your room from Zoraster's complex?"

"Yes," Celes answered. "I know I shouldn't be offended that his lapdog handed it over to someone else, but I am."

"Try moving it to my room."

Celes closed her eyes and thought of the complex of rooms she knew so well, those that Danica had occupied while the two of them endured enslavement to Zoraster. "Dusty and almost empty — just like we left it."

"I hope Ebonar isn't expecting me to move back in soon, because he's in for a rude awakening if he tries." A flash of inspiration struck Danica. "Try to move it to Zoraster's library."

Once again, Celes concentrated. "Looks like he's replaced everything we stole."

"Probably had copies in several places. Oh well, at least we have access to it, and so does Darkni. Doesn't look like your gift triggers any warning magic, same as the Hellgate."

"And a damn sight safer, too. You ready to see if this works?"

"Whenever you're ready. Do you need me to fetch you anything?"

"If I'm not carrying it, I'm sure you are." Celes thought of the river and the village, causing the clouds of vapor to swirl once more.

"Looks like the place to me," Danica commented, seeing the shoreline of a narrow, muddy river, and a few buildings marking the edge of what appeared to be an established settlement.

"Here we go," Celes announced, and then summoned the vapors to swallow them up.

The clouds dissipated, and the scene Danica had observed in the vapors coalesced into reality. Almost immediately, she heard cries of alarm from the nearby village. She and Celes both turned to see a pair of militiamen brandishing weapons.

Danica held her hands in front of her in a peaceful gesture. "We're not here to cause trouble. I'm looking for someone named Helen Fletcherson. Her maiden name would be Whiteglade. She's supposed to live a few miles from here in a cluster of farmsteads."

One of the men stepped forward, his expression growing even darker. "What do you want with my wife?"

Celes snorted in surprise. "Well, that's convenient."

Danica shushed her friend. "I'm a friend of her niece, Heather. She just learned about the goblin invasion, and she's worried. I promised to come make sure you were safe."

"And who are you?" The man asked, still looking wary.

"Danica Ardane."

Celes suddenly stiffened and quietly asked, "Danica, do you smell that?"

The wisps of foul odor burned into Danica's nose only a second later. There was no mistaking the smell of unwashed bodies, rotting meat, refuse and waste. Mindless of the still-bared weapons of the village's defenders, she and Celes moved toward them as one. "If you have some sort of alarm, sound it now. There are goblins coming."

"How do..." The man trailed off, his nostrils flaring as the stench hit him as well. "Shit!" He turned to his fellow militiaman and said, "The bell, Gerald. She's right, I can smell them. Get everyone back inside the walls."

"We can help," Danica offered.

The man eyed Danica and Celes critically for a breath or two, and then said, "Come along, then."

Celes pointed upward and tugged on Danica's sleeve. "That guard tower. It's not all that high, but it should let us see a good ways."

Helen's husband shouted and waved to a few men rushing out into the street at the sound of the alarm bell. He then turned back to Danica and said, "Nobody up there. We ran out of arrows two days ago, and our fletcher got killed. Supposed to be soldiers and supplies coming, but we haven't seen them."

Danica nodded to him and then asked Celes, "Can you get us up there?"

Celes answered by grabbing Danica's hand and staring hard at the small window of the guard tower. A second later, Danica yelped as she and Celes appeared within the tower — a few inches above the weathered wooden floor.

Both women managed to keep their balance when they fell. "Sorry," Celes apologized.

Danica let out a little laugh and hurried to one of the narrow windows. She stared out over the rolling countryside, peering into the knots of trees and vegetation that might hide attackers. "There," she warned, pointing to a group of goblins approaching in a crouch through a creek bed.

"Bunch of them over there," Celes indicated, pointing to a much larger group jogging toward the village through a small wooded area. She sent a thought to the ring on her finger, calling upon the magic hidden there to protect her from a multitude of attacks. "They're mine," she added with a wicked grin.

Danica had already called upon the magic of her hood ring, and immediately launched into her magic. The spell she'd chosen took a long time to cast, and thus wasn't useful under many circumstances, but it would serve perfectly in this surprise attack. Just as the goblins clambered over the steep edge of the storm-washed creek, Danica's arrow storm rained down on them.

As the monsters that had gained the top of the creek tumbled back in with gurgling screams, only to take several more magical missiles while falling, Danica heard the detonations of Celes' spell.

The fireballs of Celes' meteor swarm spell sent goblins flying in every direction, trailing flame and greasy smoke. One unfortunate goblin tumbled head over heels to a height of around fifteen feet, the fireball having exploded directly beneath its feet. 

More goblins boiled from every possible place of concealment near the village. "Think we picked a bad time to visit," Celes flippantly observed, and then quick-cast a fireball at another group of goblins.

"Maybe for us — and the goblins," Danica countered as she reached into her bag of holding. She found the pouch she sought, and removed five of the amber marbles within. Scanning the mass of goblins, she located the most compact knot and hurled her magical weapons. Each expanded into a crackling ball of electricity that streaked into the midst of the monsters to wreak havoc.

Some of the goblins drew close enough to bring crude bows and spears into play. The latter clattered against the walls of the village or into the streets, the overzealous creatures having severely underestimated the range. The arrows fared no better, the defenders of the village having wisely taken cover. The single arrow that penetrated a window of the tower stopped dead against Danica's mystic shield and fell to the floor, broken in half.

With some of the goblins now nearing the wall, Celes unleashed one of her favorite magics. Her bolt of lightning slammed into the chest of one goblin, burning a fist-sized hole through it, and then jumped to another, blasting it to the ground where it smoked and lurched — already dead before it touched the ground. Six more goblins felt the devastating power of Celes' spell before it fizzled out.

A bolt of magic dissolved into sparks against Celes' shield, alerting Danica to the presence of a shaman amongst the monsters. Easily locating the creature, as shamans lorded their status over other goblins via extravagant headdresses, ornaments, and other mystical regalia, Danica's fingers moved through the gestures of a spell that she rarely gave any consideration to casting.

In the case of goblins, she was more than willing to make the exception and unleash the poisonous cloud upon them.

The shaman obviously recognized the billowing green death as it approached and grew, because the monster took to his heels immediately, furiously gesturing and likely grunting the words of a protective spell. Goblin after goblin grabbed its throat and fell to the ground, choking out its final breaths. The shaman continued to run, but not nearly fast enough.

With the shaman down and all other monsters nearby scattering, Danica banished the cloud before it could possibly drift anywhere that would endanger the villagers.

Celes unleashed a wall of wind in another direction that provided dual benefits. Numerous arrows and spears sent aloft by the monsters turned in their flight, raining back down upon those who had hurled them. Goblins closer to the source of the tempest rolled across the grass, tripping up their fellows attempting to fight the gale.

Faced with unexpected, powerful magic resistance, the goblin assault turned into a complete rout. The monsters fled in every direction, running as fast as their feet could carry them, or diving into cover to slink away. A few minutes later, only a few smoldering spots and the corpses of the monsters remained on the battlefield.

Celes chuckled and leaned against the wooden wall of the tower. "Well, that went quite a bit better than the last fight we picked. How many do you think?"

"Fifty or sixty. Not even a quarter of those we saw, let alone how many might have hung back."

"Aye, they'll be back. This place is in the thick of it."

"Hardly the sort of news I want to give Heather," Danica sighed. Her head then snapped toward the sound of someone ascending the questionable looking ladder at the rear of the tower.

Celes peeked down and said, "It's Heather's uncle."

The militiaman emerged from the opening and said, "Well, I sure gotta believe you're on our side after that. Not a damn one reached the walls. We all dragged our swords out and about wet ourselves for nothing."

"They'll be back," Danica warned.

He nodded. "Name's Gerald. Don't doubt it, but we can always hope the filthy things decide we're not worth the cost after what you gave them today."

Several voices called up for Gerald to bring down the two women, and he leaned over the hole in the floor to shout down, "Hold your horses!" He then straightened with a groan and said, "Lot of folk down there that want to thank you."

"Go on, we'll follow — our way," Danica said with a smile.

Gerald nodded and descended the ladder. Celes grabbed Danica's hand, looked out the window, and brought her powers to bear. She and Danica appeared at the base of the tower at the same time as Gerald's boots touched the hard-packed earth.

Danica playfully tapped one heel on the ground, prompting Celes to say, "It's a lot easier when I can actually see where our feet are going to end up."

The two women had no more settled to earth than a flash of light startled the gathering villagers. The runes adorning Danica's skin flared to life in response to her rush of surprised adrenaline. As she spun on the source of the light, Danica saw Celes raising her hand, probably preparing to bring her powers as a witch to bear.

"You gave us quite a start," said a man in a purple robe with a drooping mustache.

Danica recognized the style of the robe as one worn by advanced students under her sister and Darkniciad. "It's okay, he's with the Egorian forces," she quickly told everyone around, before anyone made a hasty decision to attack. Her runes slowly faded into invisibility once more.

The wizard let his magical shield lapse. "It would appear the feeling is mutual. My apologies for the sudden arrival." He offered a short bow in apology. "I sensed great magic here, and felt it prudent to investigate immediately. We are encountering far too many shaman and mages amongst the attacking goblins."

"We only saw one here," Danica revealed.

"I trust the goblins have been repulsed for the time being?"

"They weren't expecting magic, and we gave them more than they could have bargained for anyhow," Celes explained with a satisfied chuckle.

Gerald stepped forward. "We need some help. We're out of arrows and we're all beat down from holding them monsters back."

The mage nodded his understanding. "We have nearly secured Gliddervale to the south, and our supply lines. The first scouts should arrive before the day is out, and they have magical means to deliver some of what you need. We can provide only a few soldiers, but those who will stay as we press on will bolster your forces. We have mages and priests, as well."

"Good to hear. Was beginning to think we were on our own up here," Gerald replied, punctuating it with a sigh of relief.

"So things are going well?" Danica asked.

"The monsters still swarm everywhere, but we are steadily securing every town and village. It will be some time before we have enough trained forces to push the goblins back into their holes. You say there was a shaman?"

Danica answered, "One, and he was more interested in running than fighting by the time my poison cloud started drifting toward him."

"Ah — excellent. I need to examine the creature. We have discovered something curious and disturbing about those shaman that have met ends that did not destroy their bodies."

"I can show you where he fell," Danica offered.

Gerald declared, "I'll round up some men to burn the things, if we can find enough wood for another pyre."

Celes tugged on his sleeve as he turned. "No need. Save your wood and let us do it."

Gerald grunted, "Thanks — again." He pointed to a large, two story structure some distance down the street. "That's where me and the wife are staying. Come see us when you're finished."

"We will," Danica responded with a smile. The Egorian wizard gestured toward the timber gates of the village wall, so Danica took the lead.

From the ground, the carnage was disturbing. A partial goblin hand, probably blown there by Celes' initial barrage of magic, lay only a few feet outside the gate. Pieces of the monsters and twisted corpses littered the area outside the village. Though she despised the evil creatures, Danica still had to swallow against a lurch of her stomach when she beheld the truth of the devastation.

Seeing the greenish cast of Danica's features, Celes stroked her hand over her friend's back and said, "They're pure evil from the moment they're born. Sure that they'd have done far worse if they'd made it inside."

"I know, but..."

"I'm not all that fond of seeing what I've done down here either, Dearie. Let's just get this overwith."

Danica's shoulders slumped as she nodded. She pointed across the triangle of land between the village and the river, near the storm-washed creek where she'd cast her first spell. "The shaman should be just about halfway between where the creek turns toward the woods, and the trees."

The Egorian wizard peered off into the distance and recognized the regalia of a shaman. "I see the creature. You need not come, if you wish. I can immolate the monsters."

Danica wiped her eyes, which the smoke had irritated, as she answered, "No. We'll come."

"Very well."

The group had to detour around knots of goblin bodies more often than the numerous natural obstacles, but eventually reached the shaman. Though no visible wounds marred the goblin's body, it was all the more horrific for that lack. The shaman's mouth was open in a silent scream, and the monster's hands clutched its throat. The goblin's eyes were wide open, staring up at Danica as if in accusation.

Thankfully, the mage interposed his body between Danica and the corpse. Only a few seconds later, he declared, "Ah, as I expected." He turned, holding up a wooden disk suspended from a leather thong.

"What is it?" Danica asked.

"A holy symbol. While that alone is not unusual, the god to whom it is dedicated is," the Egorian answered.

Danica made a small sound of surprise and pointed at the spinning disk. "I've seen that design before, at Blackhawk. A woodland troll was wearing it."

The wizard's eyebrows shot up and he cupped the talisman in his other hand. "This becomes more curious by the moment. This is the holy symbol of Blorcasir, the Lord of Murder."

"I thought the other gods destroyed the Lord of Murder," Danica observed.

"Same sermon I always heard," Celes agreed, smoothing back her raven-dark hair against a breeze attempting to blow it in her face.

"That is indeed the sermon, and close to the truth. Were it this alone, it would not be a cause for concern. Unfortunately, rumors fly the Guild of Murder is reborn. If the Lord of Murder will now accept the prayers of monsters such as these, and has human worshipers again, his power will grow."

Celes let out a disgusted sigh and then, with dripping sarcasm, said, "More good news."

Danica winced and covered her nose as a breeze carried the rancid stink of the dead goblins to her. After a quick cough, she said, "We should get rid of these before they start to smell worse — if that's even possible."

"Where should we pile them up?" Celes asked.

The wizard looked around and then pointed at what appeared to be a man-made pit with blackened vegetation surrounding it. "The villagers have already chosen a place to immolate the dead."

Celes rubbed her hands together and said, "There it is, then." She cast a spell, creating a bubble of clear, odor-free air around the trio. After taking a deep, satisfied breath, she made a sweeping, backhand gesture with her hand toward the body of a nearby goblin, and then flipped her palm toward the pit. The goblin vanished.

Danica concentrated to bring her telekinetic powers to bear, zipping another goblin just above the swaying, bloodstained grass into the pit as well.

"This is going to take a while," Celes noted as she teleported a second goblin.

Watching with amazement as the two women absently utilized their inborn powers to gather up the goblins, the mage that accompanied them chuckled and stroked his mustache. "Perhaps by your estimation," he said as he pulled a wand from a sheathe at his belt. "You have done in seconds what I estimated would take several minutes."

"We have certain advantages," Danica responded with a cheeky smile, doing her best to put the macabre nature of the task out of her mind, as she sent another goblin — or rather its upper torso — skimming toward the pit.

"So I see," he said with a grin as he utilized his wand to join in the task, levitating another corpse toward the growing pile.

Danica's next goblin beat it by several lengths.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Zoraster absently deposited the report in his hand back into the pile atop his desk. The message was a long-winded progress report from an agent of little import, and certainly far less interesting than the scene playing out in the scrying crystal before him.

A flash of thought dimmed the magical light overhead, in the center of the room, leaving the Archmage bathed in the flickering glow of the crystal. "Well, well..." Zoraster muttered as he watched Danica and Celes gathering goblin corpses. "I hoped only to mire Thakkor and the Egorians in my distraction. This is a rather pleasant surprise, my little rose."




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 13



Ebonar's face replaced the image within the crystal. "I thought you would find this amusing, Master."

"And convenient," Zoraster agreed. "Our agents across the sea have their new orders?"

"Yes, Master. Those natives who serve our cause have even determined several promising locations to begin. The racial tensions ever boiling beneath the tentative peace also draw other unwitting accomplices to our cause."

"Determine those who are the most determined and prepared. Have them act this night."

"It shall be so, Master."

Ebonar's face dissipated into the pale luminescent fog contained within the crystal. A wave of Zoraster's long-fingered hand caused the cloudy interior to swirl again, calling up the image of a new location. His lip twitched from the surge of anger seeing Brandon with Marlena caused. Though the nude couple appeared as though they had only recently recovered from reaching a peak, their passions rose within them again.

"I shall have to determine proper penance for your disloyalty, Brandon," Zoraster half-growled while tapping his nails upon the surface of the ancient mahogany desk. A flick of his fingers changed the scene again.

The young blonde lay awake, fidgeting in her bed. The sight of her changed Zoraster's sneer to something even more disturbing — his smile.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Andrea pushed back the covers with a quiet sigh, even the thin sheet feeling as though it was going to smother her. Her small nipples, stiff with desire, pressed hard against the satiny pink material of her new nightgown. Sliding down the sheet had also wafted faint hints of the scent of her arousal to her.

After spending a torturous evening of holding back her desire for Travin, the young man who had followed her back to the Hall, Andrea found sleep impossible. The muted sound of Marlena and Brandon's passion that managed to penetrate the thick stone walls and oaken doors of the Hall to reach her didn't make it any easier to ignore her need, either.

Andrea's hand crept between her legs to quiet the ache, but she soon pulled it away. Lying in an unfamiliar bed made her very self-conscious, to the point that she almost felt as though someone was watching her.

With a frustrated sigh, she sat up and concentrated on a lamp. As aroused as she was, she had little trouble summoning up her fire power to light the lamp. Controlling it wasn't quite so easy. She managed to light the lamp without incident, and then sat up to reach for the bag of holding Danica had made for her. She pulled her family book from within the bag, hoping that reading might distract her from the ache in her loins and make her tired enough to sleep.

A quiet knock on the door a few seconds later startled Andrea, actually causing her to jump. Her heart pounding from the start, she heard the Duchess say, "It's Christi," from outside the door.

"Just a moment," Andrea answered, and then swung her legs over the edge of the bed. She crossed the room toward the door, deviating from her original path to remain on the carpets when a step on the hardwood below revealed how cold the floor was.

When Andrea opened the door, the Duchess said, "I saw your light come on. Can't sleep either?"

Andrea gave a tiny shrug of her shoulders and shook her head. "I guess I'm just too wound up."

"As long as we're both up..." An especially sharp yelp of pleasure followed by a laugh from Marlena interrupted Christi. The Duchess chuckled and continued, "Well, three of us are up, but one of us is busy. I thought maybe you could get my sizes to make me one of those brassieres you all are wearing." The Duchess cupped her breasts, covered by only a light sleeping shift, in her hands. "I'm getting older, and the girls are headed toward my knees."

Andrea had to silently disagree with that. Christi's breasts still rode high and proud from what Andrea could see — which was a lot. Daily exercise and sparring sessions kept the Duchess in fighting trim, well evidenced by the short, thin shift that did more to draw attention to her than cover. "Sure. Let me get my measuring cord."

Christi stepped into the room and closed the door behind her. She chuckled when Andrea stuck her hand into her bag to the elbow, searching for the cord. The actual leather purse couldn't have possibly admitted even her whole hand with the fingers fully extended, and the sight was quite comical. "I really need to get one of those, too."

"Aha," Andrea declared when she located the knotted cord she used to take measurements and withdrew it. "I love it. I can carry anything I want, and it doesn't weigh a thing."

Christi held her arms up as Andrea approached and asked, "What do I do?"

"Just keep your arms relaxed, but give me enough room to get the rope around you." The Duchess let her arms drop, and Andrea said, "That's perfect." Andrea passed the cord around Christi's back, and then pulled the end over to take the measurement. She couldn't help but notice that doing so caused Christi's shift to cling prominently to the Duchess' obviously stiff nipples. She felt her own nipples stiffen in response.

Andrea let the cord slip a little lower on the brunette's back, and brought the end of the cord back over the fullest swell of Christi's bosom. With that measurement in mind, she let the cord drop and said, "Done."

Christi shivered. "How hard-up am I? It was all I could do to keep from gasping when you brushed that across my nipples. With Cerebus gone to talk with Redbear, and Brandon and Marlena going all evening, I'm in a tizzy."

"Me too," Andrea shyly admitted as she wrote down Christi's measurements and put her cord away.

"Wishing you'd brought your young man back with you?" Christi asked with a knowing look, her hips cocked to the side with one hand resting on her bottom.

"Yes," Andrea replied and then laughed. "I just don't want to give in and find out he's a jerk later, but he made me so hot."

"All worked up and no men to take care of us," Christi said as she walked toward the blonde. "And I really don't feel like taking care of myself."

Andrea blushed; already knowing what the Duchess was leading up to, and quickly becoming enamored of the idea as her pussy tingled with a fresh rush of wetness.

"Whatever could we do about that?" Christi asked, her voice dropping in pitch, and filled with sultry seduction.

Andrea gasped, unable to contain her desire any longer. Her eyes locked with Christi's, silently calling the older woman to her.

Christi slowly gathered up Andrea's teal nightgown in her fingers, revealing the white cotton panties beneath. As she pulled upward on the bundled cloth, the Duchess leaned in to kiss Andrea with unusual gentility. In sharp contrast to their last frenzied encounter, Andrea realized that Christi wanted something far softer and more intimate this time.

The Duchess ended the kiss with a feather-light trace of her tongue over the blonde's lips, and then pulled Andrea's nightgown over her head. Even as the cloth drifted toward the floor, Christi guided Andrea's hands to her satiny shift.

Amidst continued kisses, full of restrained passion, Andrea revealed Christi's body to her questing hands. The two women sank to the bed, kissing and caressing, the ache they'd both felt now reduced to a warm, pleasant glow that infused them from head to toe.

Brandon and Marlena had collapsed into spent exhaustion several minutes before Christi finally washed her tongue over Andrea's nipple. The pair of relaxed, aroused women sought out and tantalized every inch of each other's bodies. Both knew that their orgasms would come in due time — sweet, shuddering climaxes that would linger for long, blissful minutes.

All thoughts of men forgotten, Duchess and witch made love to each other as only two women can.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Camilla crept through the surrounding bushes and undergrowth under cloak of invisibility. The cottage before her looked cheerful — inviting — and certainly belied the nature of the woman who dwelt there. Only a careful observer would have noticed on first glance that the flowers in the windowboxes were black roses, and that dark, arcane symbols formed the reliefs on the door. 

A sick feeling knotted Camilla's belly as she approached the gravel path leading to the front door. Her new senses, awakened by her Devil Master, alerted her to the numerous charms and wards hanging from — and even carved into — the trees.

Camilla knew she didn't have the skill to break those wards. The key to that lay within the cottage, beyond the protective barrier. With stealth out of the question, she fell back on her preferred method of attack. Summoning up her newly gained powers, she stalked forward, blasting every talisman with gouts of demonic flame as she reached them.

The door of the cottage opened, revealing a bent, aged woman dressed in a simple homespun gown and an apron covered in bloodstains and other blotches. "Wishing to join your Master in the hells, are ye?"

"Step aside, crone, and I might let you live," Camilla lied, continuing to approach with supreme confidence.

"White witches and Demon Lords I've faced, and live to tell the tale. What have I to fear of ye — yer Master's seed probably still burning in yer belly?" The old woman snorted derisively, having no idea that the insult about Camilla's inexperience was lost on the woman, who had little knowledge of witchcraft.

Camilla paused and flipped her long, curly hair back over her shoulders. "Good. That means your book is exactly what I'm looking for. I'll just thank you now, because you'll be dead when I take it."

"I've no time for ye," the crone muttered, absently thrusting her hand toward Camilla. A crackling, ice-cold beam of black energy leapt forth, streaking across the distance between the two women.

The runes covering Camilla's skin burst into crimson fury, every line and whirl itching. Camilla felt the chill of the old witch's power, and knew that were it not for the runes, she would even now lie dead upon the moss and gravel below. Her protective spells of the Art had melted away as if nothing before the power of the witch's assault.

A flash of thought commanded the ring on Camilla's pinky finger, teleporting her some twenty feet away into a patch of ferns. To her surprise, she faced not the old woman's profile, but another beam of black, icy death. The witch, having battled many demons before, was well used to translocation — a favored tactic of greater demons.

Camilla vanished again, her frantic command to the ring only a fraction of a second faster than the ray seeking her heart. Once again, she faced her opponent when she appeared on the opposite side, standing upon the root bulge of a massive elm tree.

"If ye're thinking that ye can blink around and vex me, ye're sorely mistaken. Get ye gone before I get tired of playing with ye."

Her confidence shaken, but her determination and anger swelling, Camilla sneered and pulled a wand of lightning from its sheathe at her waist. The angry bolt discharged, crackling in a bright display of electric fury around the witch.

The old woman clutched a talisman around her neck, turning away the lightning assaulting her.

Camilla blinked back to her original position, but not before pulling a tiny bottle from her pocket and shattering it against the thick bole of the elm behind her. Just as Rexxus had suggested, it wasn't her newfound abilities as a witch that made her dangerous, it was her devious application of the Art that could give her an advantage over the far more powerful and experienced witch. She sent out another bolt of fruitless lightning, but the attack was nothing more than a distraction.

"Enough of this. Waste to kill ye, as ye probably got no powers worth having, but ye're keeping me from a potion a' bubbling."

Camilla felt the sickening sensation in the pit of her stomach again, and all her hair stood on end. Her runes flared to full brilliance, but almost instantly dimmed.

The crone stiffened, twitching and lurching until she fell against the doorframe of her cottage. Camilla let her vision shift into the second sight and smiled wickedly. Her invisible servant's hand covered the old witch's nose and mouth while the other gripped the hag's neck. Crafted by some of Zoraster's brightest summoners, Camilla had come to thoroughly enjoy the unique abilities of the creature the bottles summoned. Far more dangerous than the invisible hands was the drug leeching from the magical creature's transparent flesh.

"Do you like my friend? Oh, you can't see him, can you?" Camilla taunted as she sauntered toward the slumping black witch, the lesson of the crone's overconfidence proving her undoing not even registering in Camilla's mind. "You probably can't even understand me any more. I can already see the paralysis setting in."

Camilla squatted down on the flagstone stoop in front of the now stock-still witch, smacking her hard across the mouth. A quick mental command ordered the invisible servant to drag the witch back inside her cottage.

"Now, it's my turn to play with you. I don't bore easily — or quickly," Camilla ominously declared as she shut the door behind her, drinking in the sight of the witch's grimoire and other tools of her black trade.

Despite having grown accustomed to sharing the wood with a black witch, the local wildlife scattered upon hearing Camilla's triumphant, mocking laughter.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Hope you're enjoying Book II of Danica's story. Thanks to Roust for his editing, as always. Big thanks to all of you reading and commenting on the tale as well.

Apologies for the long wait. I say that a lot, don't I? I'm doing my best to get back into gear, but it's hard. I hope everyone will bear with me, and thanks for all the well-wishes, condolences, and encouragement from my readers. 



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 14



Author's Notes:

It's been a while, huh? Please see the ending note for more.

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission. © Darkniciad 2011

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Gently roiling fog glimmered in the glow of the magical lights above. The mists partially swallowed the nearby desks and chairs of the study, while the others appeared to float on clouds. Danica and Celes coalesced from the misty wall, and stepped into the study.

Danica stretched her hands over her head and groaned, glad to be home after a long evening of cleaning up after the goblin battle. Behind her, the mists slowly settled, leaving not a trace of their passing. "I need a bath — badly."

"Aye," Celes agreed, and then said, "That's getting to be second nature — using my gift." The raven-haired witch walked over to Danica's desk and shuffled through the notes regarding Ashley's cottage, summoning up the conviction to make a suggestion. "I know you think you have the beasties under control, and I'm not arguing with you, but I think we should use my gift to get around instead of the Hellgate."

Danica let out a silvery laugh and stepped over to take Celes' hand. As she tugged her friend toward the door, Danica said, "I wondered why you were taking such pains to learn about your gift."

"Seems to me that we can do anything with it that we can do with the Hellgate."

Danica nodded to the left, toward her room, and held up the letter she carried from Heather's family. "I'm not arguing with you, either. We'll do it your way when we can. If nothing else, we should experiment to see what else you might be able to do. You can already find a place you've never been. Maybe you can find someone you've never met." Danica leaned into her room and placed the letter on her desk near the door.

"Never thought of that," Celes responded with a little pleasant surprise in her voice. She took the lead around the edge of the common room, heading toward the hallway on the opposite end. A quick peek into Marlena's room revealed Ashley asleep in the Illusionist's bed. Celes dropped her voice to a whisper and said, "I thought I'd get more argument from you."

Danica whispered back, "I think the spell is useful, but I do know it's dangerous. Your gift seems to work just as well, and without the danger. I'm still going to test the Hellgate, though. I think I could help the three of you more if I can summon up the Soulblade outside the gate to use against demons. I haven't been able to call it up for more than a minute or two so far."

"Fair enough," Celes agreed with a little reluctance. The pair of friends passed the kitchen, lit only by the banked coals in the ovens and stoves, and turned the corner of the hallway. Celes cocked her head and listened ahead for a moment or two. "Notice something — or rather the lack of it?"

Danica chuckled. "The girls are probably just closing their doors now. It's a little early still for them to have worn themselves out with their toys." Once past the darkened kitchen and within the entrance hall of the manor, she pointed toward the girls' wing and nodded.

Hearing the faint sounds of pleasure as well, Celes shook her head and chuckled. After cutting across the corner of the entrance hall, she remarked, "You know, we didn't pick up anything to change into after our bath."

Danica shrugged and responded, "I have a couple of shifts in my bag, but you could just teleport us back to my room." She quickened her pace a little. "Right now, I just want the stink of smoke and goblins off me."

Celes matched her friend's speed. Danica grinned mischievously and walked a little faster. Celes let out a nearly silent scoff and caught up to pass her friend. By the time the pair turned the corner at the end of the hall, both were almost jogging. The playful contest ended in a tie at the entrance of the baths.

Both women stripped down and sank into the bath with contented sighs. Danica dunked her head almost immediately, the smell of smoke clinging to her hair tenaciously. Celes followed her lead, and then both women sat back to relax after washing their hair.

Resting her head on the edge of the tub, Celes slowly ran a washcloth over her body, luxuriating in the bath as much as washing. The sensation was nothing more than a faint tingle at first, but steadily grew. If she'd harbored any doubts about her connection to Ashley and Andrea before this moment, the feeling of intense, slow-burning arousal reaching across the miles from Andrea to her sister witch would have dispelled them. Celes knew without a doubt that Andrea was steadily building toward a breathtaking climax, and her body was responding predictably. It was all she could do not to gasp out and reach between her legs to tame the growing need there.

Danica's eyes popped open. She looked over at Celes and could see faint traces of the arousal the woman felt. She could feel it as well, her psychic powers latching onto the emotion. She pouted a little when she saw that Celes was resisting, but cared enough not to press, despite her own arousal. With a surge of concentration, she broke the psychic connection to the raven-haired beauty, hoping to calm down before the Awakening swelled within her and unnaturally eroded Celes' willpower.

Concentrating on what she planned to write in her letter to Heather helped distract her, and Danica managed to cool the heat in her loins. That in turn made her feel good, because conquering the Awakening within her was no small feat. Feeling that she could resist now, she climbed out of the tub and reached for a towel.

Celes opened her eyes with a sigh and followed Danica's lead. Danica picked up her bag of holding once she finished drying off and asked, "Could you teleport us back to my room? That way, I can just leave what I have in here for when we might really need it."

Hanging her towel over one of the wooden racks, Celes nodded and took Danica's hand. A moment later, both women stood in Danica's room. Danica walked to her chest of drawers to retrieve nightgowns for them both.

Celes gestured, and then declared, "Ha!" She shook out the nightgown she'd translocated from her own room with a triumphant smile.

Danica laughed and put the second gown she'd picked up back in the drawer. Once dressed, she sat down at her desk to compose the letter to Heather. Celes walked in behind her, and something within the drawer caught her eye when Danica opened it to retrieve a pen and paper. "What's this, then?" she asked.

"Nosey," Danica teased, but she pulled the notes she'd made for Edna's toy out and handed them over. She then went to work on her letter while Celes perused the sketches and notations of the design.

"Trying to outdo yourself, are you, Dearie?"

"I wanted Edna to have a toy that works without any need for hands," Danica explained as she continued to write. A few seconds later, she finished the brief note she planned to send with the longer letter from Heather's aunt, and turned back to Celes. Danica's eyes twitched upward just a little when she saw the other woman tracing the drawing of the phallus with a fingertip.

Celes noticed the reaction and rolled her eyes at her friend as she put the sketches down on the desk. "Told you already that I can understand the idea of a cock without a hairy man attached to it."

Danica stood up, placed the two letters into her message bowl, and spoke a word of command, sending them speeding off to the similar bowl in Heather's house. "Do you want to borrow one of my toys?"

At that very moment, miles away in Blackhawk Hall, Andrea and Christi reached a simultaneous, thundering climax on each other's tongues. Celes let out a gasp as the feeling washed over her, mingling with her fascination about Danica's toys. Danica put her hand on the desk behind her and gasped as well when the sharp thrust of Celes' arousal cut through the psychic controls she had placed between them.

Celes nodded her head, still panting from the wave of shared ecstasy. She turned toward the bed, pulling the straps of her nightgown off her shoulders as she walked to let the garment slide down her body to the floor.

Danica followed, dropping her nightgown as well, her eyes locked on Celes' perfect bottom. The beautiful witch crawled into the bed and rolled over on her back. She'd barely settled before Danica straddled her and leaned in for a kiss.

As their lips parted, Celes darted her eyes toward the nightstand next to the bed, where she knew Danica kept her toys. She then nudged the redhead's hand toward the drawer.

Danica let out an excited moan and opened the drawer, pulling out the first toy that her hand closed over. She spoke the command word to bring the magical cock to life, intensely aroused by the thought of using it on Celes. She wet the tip with a few teasing licks, and then asked, "Do you want it?"

"Gods, yes," Celes gasped, parting her legs to tease her moist folds.

A thought from Danica closed the door to her room and caused a rune structure upon it to flicker to life for a few seconds. The magic would keep sound from escaping, so as not to disturb Ashley, sleeping only a short distance away. Celes breathed heavily, gazing with a mixture of fear and longing at the toy in the redhead's hand. Danica leaned forward, reaching over a bent knee to place her hand on the bed. She then sat down and spun on her bottom to face the same direction as Celes, finding a comfortable angle. Looking over her shoulder with a sultry smile, she pressed the humming toy against Celes' nether lips.

Celes gasped as the buzzing tip touched her, her head lifting up from the bed. A second or two of grasping located a pillow, which she pulled under her head so she could better see over her rapidly rising and falling breasts.

Danica rubbed the mushroom tip over Celes' folds, letting the thrumming vibrations play through her friend's sex. Celes' breathing quickened as the toy wriggled between her moist, pink folds, pressing just a little harder. Danica licked her lips, and slowly pushed the magical cock into Celes' depths.

A long, almost pained groan escaped Celes as the toy invaded her. The vibrating cock felt twice as large as she knew it to be, stretching her lips wide and giving her an incredible sense of fullness. When she managed to force her eyes open, they immediately went wide when she saw that only half of the toy was inside her.

Sensing that her friend wasn't ready for more just yet, Danica withdrew her toy a few inches, and then pushed it back in again. Celes yelped, her head lashing back and forth on the pillow. The next stroke was a little faster, and she kept up the pace as she felt the resistance of Celes' tightly clenched walls decrease.

"G-g-gods! So big!" Celes cried out, feeling as though the toy was going to split her in half, while an aching void nevertheless screamed for more deeper inside her.

Danica's next thrust went deeper, setting off another series of gasps and yelps. She found her natural rhythm, stroking the toy cock ever deeper into Celes' canal, until the flickering tongue on the toy touched the raven-haired woman's clit.

Celes squealed as the fluttering probe assaulted her bud, and then again when Danica thrust the toy in to the hilt on the following stroke. Filled as she'd never experienced before — at least willingly — Celes felt a knot of humming, barely restrained energy building deep inside her.

Danica thrust her magical cock into Celes as fast as she could, amazed by the amount of wetness coating the toy and her friend's nether lips. The ecstasy painted across Celes' flushed face and the woman's sharp cries let Danica know her friend was close. "Come for me," she begged in a hushed, breathless voice.

Celes' back slowly arched up from the feather-stuffed mattress as the pressure of her impending climax built to almost unbearable levels. Just as she thought she would explode, her orgasm unleashed its power in a great burst.

She screamed, her body lurching first upward, and then to the side. Her wrenching and the tightening of her intimate muscles squirted the toy from inside her, as well as a spray of her juices. She continued to thrash as jolts of orgasmic energy tore through her, taking complete control of her body.

Danica rubbed her own moist folds as Celes came, the abandoned toy humming against one of the witch's trembling legs. Finally, the beautiful raven-haired woman curled up into a ball, covering her sex with her palm, and spiraled down from her heights.

Breathless and surprised by both the speed and intensity of her orgasm, Celes uncurled and collapsed limp on the bed as soon as her taut muscles would allow it.

"Did you like it?" Danica asked, already knowing the answer.

Unable to summon up enough air to voice the answer, Celes just nodded while continuing to pant. She closed her eyes, still twitching from the occasional sharp aftershock rippling out from her tingling sex.

Though her own need screamed at her, Danica fought the urge until Celes caught her breath. Once again, she reached into her toy drawer, seeking something specific this time.

"Oh my," Celes said in almost frightened tones when she noticed what Danica held.

"If you don't want to, it's okay, but I want it."

"Yes," Celes gasped, the sight of the harnessed cock causing her to feel a void in her depths again.

Danica slipped into the harness as fast as possible, tightening the buckles before speaking the command word that activated her toy's magic. She gripped the magical phallus in her hand as she edged forward.

Celes brought her knees up and back, the curious sight of a cock poking out from between Danica's legs surprisingly arousing. She steeled herself as the tip touched her, trying to prepare for the shock to come.

Both women groaned as Danica thrust her hips forward. Even as the toy penetrated Celes, an only slightly smaller cock thrust into Danica's depths. After a few halting thrusts, Danica found a rhythm, every pump of her hips filling both of them with throbbing magical cock.

Celes gasped as her lover gripped her thighs, using the leverage to thrust harder and faster. The redhead's heavy breasts bounced and jiggled as she enthusiastically thrust, once again fueling a hot bubble of ecstasy within Celes.

Incredibly turned on, Danica could feel her own orgasm building after only a few thrusts. She knew she was going to come hard — soon. When she could manage to keep her eyes open, she could see the signs in Celes that told her the beautiful woman she was fucking was tumbling toward the abyss right alongside her.

"Ah! Yes, D-danica!" Celes cried out, her voice broken in rhythm with the cock pounding into her depths. "Ohh — gods! I... Aieee!"

Celes' orgasm triggered the magic of the toy, spurting a hot rush of the witch's girl cum deep into Danica. Danica slammed her hips forward a final time, reaching her peak before Celes' scream even died away. She too screamed in release, her juices spurting against the entrance to Celes' womb.

Danica fell forward onto quivering arms, the twin shafts of her toy buried inside both her and Celes. The throbbing cocks kept both women coming, their juices dribbling from around the shafts toward the bed below. A sharp jolt of orgasmic energy caused Danica to withdraw with a loud gasp, and she collapsed to the bed over her friend's bent right leg.

Gasping for breath and trembling in ecstasy, neither woman could manage to move for several minutes.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Man-shaped shadows — extensions of the night — crept across the chill desert. Though the men moved swiftly, virtually no sound of their footfalls reached the wary ears of the guardian priests.

One after another, the shaven-headed priests of the necropolis met swift, silent death, their blood staining the sand. One of the black-clad men knelt next to the final victim and removed his linen kilt, bundling what was inside by gathering up the edges. This he deposited in the offering nave, despoiling the altar with the priest's filth.

The plaster and stone of the tomb's entrance proved little barrier against the magic of the intruders. The men simply vanished into the wall, as though made of the very shadows they resembled.

Within, the desecration continued.

An hour later, the defilers emerged. The smell of burning linen and aromatic oils clung to their dark clothing. In each man's arms, a fortune in gold — save for one. The unburdened shadow warrior approached the corpse of a priest and picked up the man's curved weapon.

As the other shadows vanished into the desert night, the one who remained turned the appropriated sword upon himself. "My honor is restored," the man declared, and then plunged the sword into his own chest with remarkable strength.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

A sharp groan escaped the dusky-skinned assailant as he withdrew from the woman's abused sheath. She wept, tears streaming down her face even as his seed seeped from her sex.

A thump drew the rapist's gaze away from his petite conquest. He chuckled upon seeing the woman's husband lying on the floor. The man had summoned up enough strength in his rage to overturn the chair to which he was tied.

A call from outside prompted a call to action. The assailant wiped his member clean upon the shredded clothing of his victim, and stalked toward the struggling man on the floor. A quick slash of a knife freed the almond-eyed farmer from the chair, but not from his bonds.

Across the village, other men emerged from houses, all congregating upon a single tree with their captives — all men — in tow.

The attackers fled toward the mountains and the desert beyond, leaving behind a tree decorated with human fruit.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

A knock on the door awakened Andrea. Her eyelids fluttered open, and she shivered, remembering the night before. The Duchess still lay next to her, the dark curls on Christi's mound sticky with the evidence of their lovemaking. Christi stirred as well, and offered a crooked smile to the blonde witch.

"Andrea?" Marlena called from the other side of the heavy wooden door.

"Just a second," Andrea answered, wincing when she tried to move and found her thighs stuck together.

From outside the door, Marlena said, "I'm going to go have a bath."

"I'll come join you once I wake up a little."

"Don't be too long. We should get back."

"I won't."

Christi stretched, emphasizing her lithe, curvy form. "Mmm — what a wonderful night."

Andrea smiled, and leaned in as Christi did to kiss the dark-haired Duchess. "Mmm hmm."

"I'll wait a minute or two before I come to the bath. I know Marlena isn't exactly comfortable with that side of herself. As cute as your blush is, I wouldn't want to embarrass you either."




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 14



The color in question rose in Andrea's cheeks as she sat up and swung her legs over the edge of the bed. "I'll get to work on your brassiere as soon as I have a chance, and I'll bring patterns so your seamstresses can learn to size them and make them."

"Guessing from the glimmer in your eye regarding your young man, I would imagine we'll be seeing a lot of you here in the Hall."

Andrea shrugged, and sighed. She smoothed back her hair and said, "There's so much to do, and so much danger in the world. I feel selfish even considering it."

Christi sat up next to the younger woman and tucked an errant blonde lock behind Andrea's ear. "You can't deny your feelings. Do what you must to fulfill your duties — even those you impose upon yourself — but take the time for you too." She leaned in and kissed the young witch, kneading Andrea's bottom. "Now, you'd best head for the bath, or I'm going to hold you up."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica peeked into Celes' room as she walked to the study to find Celes dressing for the day. She could smell breakfast cooking down the hall, and no hint of anything burning. The girls grew more competent in the kitchen and in their studies by the day, it seemed.

Danica hugged her arms around her and shivered as she considered how much havoc Zoraster could have caused with his amazing cloning magic, had he not chosen to devote it almost entirely to base pleasure.

A step into the study revealed the surprising presence of Edna, who sat next to Ashley considering the plan and trap that Celes and Ashley had devised. Edna looked up and nodded. "I thought it might be a good idea to let them spread their wings a little without their mother bird hovering over them."

"So far, so good. I don't smell anything burning," Danica agreed as she crossed the carpets to sit down.

"Have you thought about where you're going to put your demon once you've captured it?" Edna asked. "I doubt the valley will let you return it here."

Danica answered, "Darkni's island would probably be best. Even demons would shy away from the amount of magical power there, and the thing wouldn't last long if it escaped."

"The beastie isn't getting loose," Celes scoffed as she entered the room. "This trap would hold a demon ten times as strong for a thousand years."

"Never hurts to be prepared," Danica said with a smile.

Melanie, the younger clone of Marlena, walked into the study and said, "Breakfast is ready." She then inclined her head as though she'd heard a sound.

Danica certainly heard something, although it wasn't a real sound. The silent mental chime announced someone arriving in the pattern room — in this case, Andrea and Marlena. "Did you hear that?" Danica asked.

"We all can," Melanie said with a roll of her eyes as she turned to leave the study.

"Oh gods," Danica groaned. "They're taking on a teenage mindset now. I think we're in deep trouble."

Edna chuckled. "I can just imagine your mothers trying to contain their laughter. Every woman takes a little guilty pleasure in watching her daughter deal with this. In your case, it's even closer to seeing what you were like at that age."

"Aye, we're in trouble," Celes reiterated.

Looking a little alarmed as she walked in the room, Andrea asked, "What's wrong?"

Danica laughed and waved to the blonde witch and Marlena. "The girls are just starting to show a bit of a maturity that isn't altogether pleasant to look forward to. Your outfits are gorgeous. Did you find everything we needed?"

Marlena sat down and glanced at Andrea, who blushed. "It's all in the pattern room."

Danica knew there was a story behind the glance and the blush, but decided to let it go and allow Andrea to tell it when she felt ready. "Feeling up to giving me a little of your magic after breakfast, then? I'm sure Ashley is ready for some space of her own."

"Certainly," Marlena answered. "Breakfast sounds wonderful. I'm famished."

Ashley helped Edna to stand, and everyone proceeded to the dining room. They found the girls in the midst of a hushed conversation that immediately ceased upon the arrival of the adults.

Danica knew it was yet another ominous sign.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica let her arms fall to her side and her chin drop to her chest. When she saw movement in her peripheral vision, she offered a weak wave of her hand to indicate that she was okay. She took in a deep breath and blew it out again before lifting her head.

The glow around the cottage had already faded, and Danica had little doubt that her magic had worked. She nodded to Ashley and said, "Go ahead."

Ashley picked up the model cottage, her green eyes aglow with anticipation. Everyone followed her out back and waited as the redheaded witch positioned the model on the shin-high grass behind the manor, directly across from Edna's cottage.

"Whenever you're ready," Danica said when Ashley returned to stand with the rest of the group.

Ashley's smile grew even wider as she took a deep breath, and then said, "Home."

The model cottage rapidly expanded, emerging into exactly what the command word for the magic item stated — Ashley's new home.

Danica leaned up against the wall of the manor with a sigh. "I need a little rest before we go demon hunting."

"We need time to teach Andrea the spell, anyway," Celes said with a shrug. When she looked at Ashley admiring her new home, she let out a laugh. "Or rather I need to teach her the spell."

"I'm going to go lie down, then," Danica declared, and then pushed off the smooth stone wall of the manor to walk toward the door.

Celes watched her friend, and couldn't help but consider the phenomenal powers that the redhead possessed. After weaving such a powerful enchantment, she should be on her knees. Even the joining spell that Celes had cast to lend her power and Marlena's to the enchantment shouldn't have prevented that.

Celes knew that there was more to Danica than anyone understood. The knowledge left her in awe — and a little frightened for her friend. As an Archmage, Celes knew the strain that great magic put on her when she called on her full wellsprings of power. She couldn't imagine how Danica managed to contain such vast arcane energies.

"Celes?" Andrea asked, noticing the distant look in the dark-haired witch's eyes.

"Sorry," Celes responded, pushing aside her ruminations. "Let's go teach you that spell so we can trap us a beastie and wring some information out of it."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The orange-striped cat hissed and arched its back in alarm as fog suddenly rolled up from the paving stones of the shadowed alley. The feline darted away when figures congealed from the mists.

Celes stepped from the cloudy portal first, followed by her sister witches. Danica and Marlena brought up the rear, the magical fog already evaporating even as the two redheaded magic users stepped into the alley.

Andrea pinched her nose against the stink of urine and garbage permeating the alley. "This smells like a place a demon would like."

"Let's try to do this quietly," Danica said. "The last thing we need are superstitious townsfolk organizing an impromptu witch burning."

"At least they'd be getting real witches for once," Celes grumbled with a shake of her head. While most of the world accepted magic due to its almost unavoidable abundance, some rural areas still clung to the old superstitions like a lover. This frontier town stood dead center in just such a collection of family farms.

Though Danica and her friends had dressed in a nondescript fashion, Marlena wove invisibility around them all before leaving the alley — save for Danica. Ashley had suggested that such magic would normally prove useless against even a minor demon, but questioned that common wisdom in the face of Marlena's mastery of illusion.

With soundless footfalls — another element of Marlena's magic — the group stepped out of the alley and into the crumbling flagstone street. Wagons rumbled down the pothole-laden thoroughfare while pedestrians stayed close to the edges to avoid the heaps of horse manure in the center. The attire of the people moving about suggested that most were visitors from the neighboring farms, though a few in cleaner clothes were likely townsfolk.

"The merchant's shop is over there," Celes revealed as she pointed toward a building at the end of the street. The place looked a little worse for the wear, and a general store on the opposite side of the street, closer to the center of town, appeared to garner the lion's share of the local business.

Danica popped a pair of buttons at the top of her blouse to reveal the swell of her bosom as she approached the shop and patted the coin purse on her hip.

"What's that all about?" Celes asked.

Danica sent her thoughts to her friends telepathically since no one but her could see them.

'I imagine that our shopkeep could use a little cheering up. The whole point is to give him some hope, isn't it? Besides, with the way demons seem to lust after women, it could distract it a bit as well.'

Celes chuckled and said, "You're the bait." She then nodded off toward the side. "You're attracting attention from more than demons and demoralized merchants, though."

Danica glanced over to see a young man staring at her with wide eyes — just in time to see him trip over his own feet and stumble down the weathered boards of the porch he was crossing. She looked away with a pursed lip smile and fought against the urge to laugh, not wanting to embarrass him any further.

"Okay, here we are," Ashley announced upon reaching another, much longer alley about halfway to the merchant's shop. The first alley had provided cover to mask the arrival of the five women. This one provided a path to the edge of town where the smell of a charcoal maker would keep away most prying eyes, and a stand of trees would serve as the perfect place to set the trap.

"We'll be waiting," Celes said as she turned down the alley.

"Be careful," Andrea admonished as she followed.

'I will,' Danica telepathically responded as she continued toward the shop.

The plan was quite simple. The demon feeding off of the merchant's fears accosted just enough people who visited the shop to keep the man on the edge of ruin. Anyone who spent a large amount of coin in the shop became an immediate target. Danica would do exactly that, and then lead the demon back to where the three witches awaited with their trap.

When Danica pushed open the creaking door of the shop and triggered the bell hanging inside, she saw the merchant seated behind his counter with his forehead pressed against the wood and his hands atop his head. He popped up upon hearing the bell and greeted her with none of the depression he obviously felt in his voice. "Welcome. How can I help you?"

Danica smiled, having heard the stutter in his thoughts that he masked in his words upon seeing her bared cleavage. "A lot, I hope. I seem to be out of nearly everything."

The merchant's eyes brightened even more. "I am at your service. Just tell me what you need."

Though most of the things Danica purchased were merely for show, one of the items that went into her bundle was something she actually needed. The gems that she and Celes had taken upon their escape from Zoraster's complex had included no jade, and it had several uses in magic. The merchant happened to have a small pouch of the stones. The cost helped further Danica's goal of spending as much money as possible, as well.

The merchant was in a much more pleasant mood when Danica walked out of the shop, but she was seriously questioning some of the things she'd chosen to buy. The weight of the bundle proved extremely awkward to carry, especially since she was used to slipping anything that she carried into her bag of holding.

Danica bore her burden, hoping that the expectations Celes and Ashley expressed about the way the demon operated were accurate. If their observations were correct, the demon would seek her out in short order.

Sure enough, Danica spotted the demon wandering in her direction before she'd even managed to cross the street. The creature appeared to be a young man who suffered from mild retardation. Though he physically stood out amongst the populace, few took notice because of the stigma of his apparent condition.

The demon stealthily followed along behind Danica, and she knew that she would have never noticed it if she wasn't looking for the disguised hellspawn. Once in the alley, away from the busier parts of the small town, the demon drew upon its powers. Only Danica's empathic ability let her keep track of the monster. The demon was angry about her purchases cutting off its food supply, but also surging with lust for her.

Danica exited the alley and shifted her burden to a more comfortable position. She knew that she still had a fair walk ahead of her, because the place for the trap had to be deep enough into the woods for the demon to catch up after waiting for her to cross the open field between it and town. Though the demon would sometimes steal things to make a customer think that the merchant had cheated him or her, it most often waited until the victim returned home and somehow despoiled the goods there in crafty ways.

'I'm at the edge of the trees,' Danica thought to her friends as she stepped into the shadowed woodland.

'We're ready,' Celes thought back, her mental words tinged with anticipation — and just a hint of amusement.

Danica wished that she'd rested just a bit longer as she walked down the narrow trail through the trees, dead leaves and twigs crunching beneath her feet. She felt weaker with every step, her bundle of goods an anchor trying to drag her to the ground. She couldn't help a sigh of relief when she recognized the clearing from Celes' scrying.

Celes and the others hid in the foliage, combining the cover with Marlena's invisibility spell in an attempt to escape notice until the time was right. Danica started when she stepped out of the clearing and heard Ashley shout, "Now!"

Danica spun around and her eyes widened when she realized just how close the demon had managed to approach her. It was barely five feet away, writhing and growling in an attempt to resist the power of the crystals the three witches had slapped to the earth around it. The demon's previously slack expression turned ferocious as it struggled.

"Through blessed earth and crystals pure," Ashley began the chant.

Celes continued the spell, "Your black powers we now abjure."

Andrea delivered her line next. "Never more to bring on fear."

All three spoke the final line in unison. "We witches three — we bind you here."

The demon's disguise vanished in an instant, revealing the creature's true, jet-black form. As the book had described, the demon closely resembled the bat-like imps, but was about double the size of such creatures. It immediately took to wing, bashing against the invisible boundaries of the cage formed by the crystals while screeching in rage and pain.

The three witches scooted their crystals closer and walked toward the demon, restricting its movement with every step. By the time the three women stood up straight, the demon crouched with its limbs and wings tightly wrapped around it, twitching from tiny sparks of blue-white arching from the mystical cage.

Celes leaned down in front of the demon with a deceptively sweet smile and said, "Behave yourself, and we might just give you a bit more room."

The demon snarled and shook its head violently in response, about the only action it could take without receiving another excruciating jolt from its invisible prison.

Andrea hugged her arms around her as she watched the demon twitch in pain and asked, "Couldn't we move the crystals just a little farther apart?"

"Bah, the damn thing's a demon," Celes scoffed as she stood. One look at Andrea's innocent, generous face caused her to feel a sting of regret, however. "Okay," she relented and bent to pull her crystal out a few inches.

Andrea and Ashley did the same, allowing the demon to stretch out and stand up.

Marlena suddenly launched into a quiet rush of words, her hands flying through the gestures of the Art. Everyone else tensed, looking around for a source of danger.

The illusionist completed her spell with a flourish and said, "There are people at the edge of the woods. They must have heard the demon screeching. I just barely heard someone speaking. I included Danica and the demon in my spell to keep us hidden."

Danica opened her mind and called upon her powers. "They're gathering up their courage to come this way. They haven't seen us, and have no idea what they heard. We should take the demon to Darkni's before they come this way." She then turned to Celes and said, "Something tells me that your gift isn't going to accept a demon passenger. We'll have to use the Hellgate."

Celes nodded in reluctant agreement and said, "Make it quick. Whoever is out there is on their way, and I don't want to have to try to stay away from them while carrying the crystals."

"One misstep could break the resonance between them, and they'll lose power every moment that they're not in contact with the earth," Ashley agreed.

Danica waved over Marlena, and stepped in closer to the three witches surrounding the demon. As soon as Marlena reached them, Danica cast her spell and summoned up the disk of light at everyone's feet. The luminous circle rose upward, and everyone appeared within Danica's personal pocket realm.

Ashley gasped and then exclaimed, "The crystals are weakening!"

Danica quickly shifted the focus of the portal to the room Darkniciad had set aside to contain the demon, and slammed the doorway open. In the blink of an eye, everyone stood within the room.

Ashley blew out a sigh of relief and let her hand fall to her side again. She'd raised it in preparation to freeze the demon in time, should it have escaped. "It's okay, the crystals are as strong as ever now."

"Okay, that was a bad idea," Danica said apologetically.

Celes shrugged. "No harm done. I should have thought of it. We're going to have to figure out some way to move the beasties around if we need to do this again, though. We can't use my gift — I'm positive that you're right about that. The Hellgate is obviously out of the question. Normal teleport spells wouldn't work on the crystals."

"Maybe rift magic," Danica suggested. "We'd have to prepare both ends in advance, but that should work."

"We have one end right here," Celes agreed. "I'm sure Darkni will have someone prepare a permanent rift anchor in this room, if we ask."

Danica nodded in agreement, a familiar glint sparkling in her eye. "I have an idea about the other end, too."

"Let's have a little chat with our demon, first," Celes said as she turned toward the creature.

The demon cowered and hissed, not at all pleased with that prospect.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

C'seka hissed in delight and caressed the cheek of his second slave. His demon seed still seeped from her gaped sex to flow down her leg, and yet he had already caused her to join her Hellgate to that of his first slave.

The demon felt the power of the joined realms flowing through him, enhancing his strength and magic. The demons of the Hellgates were subtle, patient creatures by nature, and C'seka's release to walk the world beyond the place that had spawned him had done nothing to change that.

The demon released his slaves to return to their lives, completely unaware of their servitude until such time as he summoned them again. The joined realms of the two Hellgates remained open, however. A small Kingdom, but one over which C'seka ruled without question.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 14



C'seka shuddered as if in ecstasy, the familiar sensation of Danica calling upon her Hellgate coursing through his body. With his newly increased power, he attempted to breach her realm.

The demon snatched his hand back when the portal closed as fast as it had opened. The woman had closed her Hellgate. Ever patient, C'seka returned to his Master's side in Nightmare Castle.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica wrenched away from her mental contact with the demon, a croaking cry bursting from her lips. She collapsed to her knees even as Marlena and Celes grabbed her to support her.

"Danica, are you okay?" Celes demanded, her face filled with concern.

A nimbus of sparks danced about Andrea's hand as she turned toward the entrapped demon.

Danica gagged on the taste of bile, but managed to say, "Andrea — don't."

Andrea let her hand drop, but the electrical fury building there lingered for several seconds.

"The hells happened?" Celes asked.

Danica's stomach roiled once more as the horrifying images flashed through her mind. "It's my fault," she answered as she allowed her two friends to help her stand. "I couldn't break free once I found what we were looking for."

Ashley stood at Danica's side, steadying her friend. "So you have the name of a more powerful demon?"

"V'brak — a Kreisbruch," Danica answered.

Ashley tensed and revealed the more common name of the demon in a tight voice. "A coven slayer."

Danica nodded and gestured toward the caged demon. "This one pointed it toward a coven, and the Kreisbruch promised it one of the witches in exchange. I couldn't break away from the thing's daydream about violently raping her before it devoured her."

Celes' eyes narrowed as she turned toward the demon. "Well, I guess we don't need our ugly little prisoner any more, then."

Still seething with anger at seeing Danica hurt by a creature she'd shown compassion for, Andrea's hand once more erupted into barely contained electrical fury.

"Don't," Danica admonished. "This one knows more, and I knew the risk when I waded into its cesspool of a mind."

"We have to stop it," Andrea said with uncharacteristic finality.

Ashley asked, "Do you know where the coven is?"

Danica shook her head, but then said, "I know how to find out, though."

Celes waved her finger in front of Danica's face. "Oh no — not right now, Missy. You've been pushing yourself all day. You go have something to eat and get some rest." She then glanced over her shoulder at the demon and said, "The critter knows we can pluck whatever we want out of its head now, so maybe it will cooperate."

Danica started to protest, but couldn't argue with what Celes had said. She felt as weak as a day-old kitten, and her head still pounded from wrenching away from the demon's thoughts. With a little acquiescent tip of her head, Danica said, "You're right."

"Off with ye to bed, then," Celes said as she turned back to the demon.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The Kreisbruch perched high in the branches of an oak, drooling as it watched the women filter into the glade. The demon's obscenely large mouth split into a grin as the witches placed wards and charms all around the edges of the secluded forest clearing. Such pitiful charms from mere practitioners wouldn't even give him pause.

The women greeted each other and mingled until the last of the coven arrived, oblivious to the danger lurking above. The demon waited until the women joined hands in a circle to ask for a blessing upon their conclave before bunching the powerful muscles of its legs.

The demon felt only the slightest sting from the witches' wards as its supernaturally strong legs propelled it from the treetop perch to the ground below. As soon as the Kreisbruch hit, it seemingly exploded amidst the terrified screams of the surprised coven. A dozen green-scaled copies of the demon burst forth into the midst of the terrified witches. When one of the doppelgangers drew first blood, all cried out in dark bliss at the slaughter to come.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Swirling whirlpools of mist curled around Danica and her friends as they rushed through the portal into the chaos. Danica started as the bright flash and thunderous boom from Andrea's stroke of lightning blasted one of the green monsters into quivering bits of goo. Even as Danica and the others assessed the field of battle, a chill, straight-line wind roared from Andrea, sweeping aside demons as she sprinted toward the woman that the now vanquished demon doppelganger had injured.

Ashley unleashed her power, causing the attacking demons to slow, and revealing the identity of the host creature. The true Kreisbruch resisted her power more effectively than its copies.

Danica called upon her telekinetic powers and hurled one of the potions Ashley had provided toward the nearest demon, which had knocked down one of the women of the coven and now hovered over her. Even as the demon burst into flames and faded from view, so too did the women of the coven. A second later, Danica could once more see the women, though Marlena's spell would certainly still confound the demons.

Danica sought another target, but could no more than lock her eyes upon a demon before Ashley, Celes, or Andrea destroyed the hellspawn. Andrea, standing protectively over the woman who had first tasted the claws of the demons, destroyed more than half of the creatures in an almost startling display of elemental fury. Leaves and dust mingled with demon pieces and oily smoke as the determined blonde wreaked havoc on the monsters.

The host demon realized the danger and leaped toward one of the women of the coven, having managed to penetrate Marlena's magic to some limited degree. The Kreisbruch wrapped one clawed hand around the brunette's throat and warned in a hollow, growling voice, "You can't destroy me before I can tear her throat out, bitches."

The thin lines of blood trickling down the woman's throat from the demon's claws punctuated its warning.

Danica's mind whirled through possibilities, but she need not have bothered. Her eyes widened when the arm of the demon simply vanished. The creature vibrated violently for a few seconds, and then exploded into a spray of gory bits. A dozen or so feet away, the Kreisbruch's arm blew up as well.

"You think so?" Celes smugly responded to the vanquished demon's challenge.

Seeing the threat ended, Andrea immediately dropped to her knees to tend to the wounded woman.

"You can teleport pieces of someone?" Danica asked, a little disturbed by the thought and the gruesome evidence of exactly that happening.

"Guess so. It just came to me, and it seemed like the perfect solution," Celes answered.

"The prophecy," exclaimed one of the women of the coven, the words quickly echoed by others of the circle.

"So, you have come," the brunette who still bore the bleeding punctures of the demon's claws declared. "The sisters of the mists."

"The what?" Danica asked, taken aback by the grandiose title, although she understood how it applied to her and her friends.

"The sisters of the mists," repeated the woman that Andrea had just healed. Though no evidence of the tears in her flesh remained, the woman struggled to maintain some decency in her tattered blouse as she stood. "It's a prophecy that has been passed from coven to coven for generations."

One of the other women stepped forward and recited the prophecy.





Sisters of the Mists Ch. 15



Author's Notes:

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission. © Darkniciad 2011

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica awakened late, but finally felt as though she'd recovered the strength that she'd expended since enchanting Ashley's cottage. A whispered word caused the shutters on the skylight above to open, revealing that she'd slept quite late. Danica sat up and stretched, assuming that she'd probably missed breakfast. She knew that someone would have saved her something, though.

Just as she finished dressing for the day, a silent mental chime and a flicker of light in her peripheral vision let Danica know that something had arrived in the message bowl. With a final yawn, she crossed the room and picked up the letter, instantly recognizing the papyrus paper. The thought of a letter from Harkhuf or Tari brought a smile to her lips.

That smile faded when she opened the missive. Even as she read, Danica nudged open the door with a flick of her telekinetic power, and hurried through the manor toward the lab, where she assumed that she would find Celes and Andrea.

"What's wrong, Dearie?" Celes asked as soon as Danica stepped through the doorway. She knew her friend all too well to miss the look of concern on Danica's face.

"Something's happened in Osiramun," Danica answered, and handed the letter to Celes.

Celes' brow furrowed as she read. "Not good," she ominously muttered, causing Ashley to look up from her map.

"What is it?" Ashley asked.

"Danica headed off a plot by Zoraster's people to throw the eastern continent into war, but it looks like it may have just delayed things." She handed the letter to Ashley, and then turned back to Danica. "I know you're going. Do you want someone to come with?"

Danica answered, "I wouldn't mind the company, but I know that the two of you are busy trying to find us another demon to wring information out of." She smoothed back her auburn tresses, sighed, and added, "Probably nothing we can do, anyway. Tari didn't leave much room for hope that I can see, and she's relaying what Harkhuf told her."

Knowing that Danica had only recently come to a disturbing realization about her previous visit to the desert kingdom, Celes took her friend's hand and asked, "Are you okay?"

Danica nodded. "Yes." She then brought Celes' hand to her lips and kissed it.

"What about Marlena?" Celes suggested.

Danica let out a little chuckle. "If she's not back yet, then she's probably going to be a while. I'll be fine. If anyone wants to come after me, I'll conjure up a picture of the teleportation pattern."

"Good idea," Celes agreed. She then admonished, "Eat before you go. I know you too well, and you'll forget if you don't."

Danica's tummy grumbled. "I don't know about that, but I will. Any luck finding another demon?"

"We're still trying to find a likely one to scry on," Ashley answered.

"If I find out that there are any demons involved in what's going on in the desert, I'll let you know."

Celes made a shooing gesture and said, "Fair enough. Now go eat."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica appeared atop the pattern in Harkhuf's house, the smell of incense in the air bringing back memories of her previous visits. The bald priest of Sekmamun walked into the room before she could even step from the circular pattern.

"I expected you would come, but I fear that there is little you can do."

Danica hugged the priest, the feeling of his strong arms around her sending chills down her spine. She fought down her arousal and stepped back from the hug to ask, "What exactly happened?"

"It will be far easier to show you," Harkhuf answered, and held out his hand to her.

She nodded and accepted his hand. His magic swirled around them, and Danica felt the oppressive heat of the desert sun. Glad that she had changed into light robes that shielded her skin from the sun, she looked around. She could see a great deal of activity near a rock-cut doorway in the distance.

"I will need to speak with the priests of the Necropolis before you approach," Harkhuf explained.

"I understand." The enormity of a tomb lying at the center of the troubles in the land was not lost upon her. For a culture with such strong beliefs about the body of the deceased providing an anchor for the spirit in the afterlife, anything involving a tomb would certainly provoke a powerful response.

Danica felt very self-conscious standing in the sand alone, as all eyes near the tomb turned her way. After a few tense minutes, Harkhuf returned. "We are fortunate. One of the ranking priests witnessed your dance for Pharaoh. I expected far more difficulty."

Harkhuf gestured, and Danica followed him down to the entrance of the tomb. She could again feel eyes on her, for far different reasons this time. As with all of her other visits to this land, her fair skin, red hair, and generous bosom combined with her resemblance to the goddess of dance to attract every male eye.

Harkhuf paused before the entrance of the tomb and said, "I will use my magic to show you what the priests discovered upon arriving." He then cast his spell, and Danica observed the transparent images, revealing the bodies of the priests and the dark-clad outsider.

"This one is an outsider, a shadow warrior from east of the desert. No one man perpetrated this desecration, but his fellows had no care for him when he fell."

Danica's eyes narrowed as she considered the image of the masked warrior. "Doesn't that seem a little convenient to you?"

He nodded, and then let out a sad sigh. "I fear it is of no moment to Pharaoh, however. This tomb is that of his own grandfather."

"Things will be worse than ever, won't they?"

"Pharaoh will not stop until every root and branch has been destroyed, or he himself ascends to godhood. Even then, his sons and any other who might wear the crown of Pharaoh will continue the war. There is no forgiveness or mercy for such desecration. The sands and the seas will run red with blood."

"So I only delayed the inevitable," Danica sighed. She then noticed the seal on the tomb door, which had been cut through in such a way as to barely touch the inscriptions on the surface. "They took a lot of care to remove that seal, for thieves."

"The priests of the Necropolis removed the seal. Were it not for the appearance of Pharaoh's Ba upon their arrival, they might have assumed that the thieves were stopped here. Some magic allowed them to pass through the door without breaking the seal." Harkhuf gestured toward the door of the tomb. "Your skill with the spell weaving is one of the means I used to convince the Necropolis priests to allow you inside. I thought that perhaps you might be able to discern something of the magic used by the thieves."

"I can try," Danica said with a little smile. She felt a sense of foreboding as she followed Harkhuf into the tomb — almost a miasma of mingled anger and pain in the air. At first, she assumed it was a function of her empathic powers, but she could see Harkhuf wince upon crossing the threshold of the tomb, as well.

It didn't help that the last time she had entered such a tomb in this land, it was as a thief — albeit an unwilling one under Zoraster's command. Her skin crawled as she remembered the obelisk that the madman had ordered her to deliver. The object had brimmed with ominous, intelligent power.

"Danica?"

She shook her head and said, "I'm sorry. I guess I was lost in thought." She glanced at the paintings on the walls and ceiling of the tomb, the colorful bas relief images a testament to the wealth and influence of the man entombed here — and this was but the entrance corridor. "I suppose I should start here and see if I can pick up on any lingering strands of the magic."

After taking a deep breath, Danica slipped into the second sight, allowing her to see the aura of magic in the world around her. She then focused that vision, delving into her knowledge of spell weaving to see the individual strands of magical power.

She was surprised to see absolutely nothing. Never before had she failed to discern at least a few — usually hundreds — of naturally occurring tendrils of magical power hovering within sight. A look down the hall revealed much the same.

Harkhuf asked, "You see something?"

"No, and that's what is surprising," Danica answered. "It's as if someone sucked up every ounce of magic here. The only evidence of any sort of magical power I see is coming from us."

Harkhuf's brow furrowed, and Danica knew that he too was slipping into the second sight. "I knew the wards were broken, but this is..."

"Frightening," Danica answered for him. "I can see some of the naturally occurring threads of magic creeping in from outside, but they seem weak, and have barely passed through the doorway. Even a dispell is magic, and you can see the shell of it surrounding the place where magic is dead, if you know what you're looking for."

"This explains why the Necropolis priests have had such difficulty in restoring the tomb." He paused, his right hand curling into a fist. "If those whom Pharaoh now seeks to bring war have discovered a way to destroy magic..."

"Then the whole world is in deep trouble." Danica gestured down the corridor. "If I can, I'd like to look deeper inside."

"Of course," Harkhuf responded. "Pharaoh comes to his love of dance and the goddess from generations of the same. He who rests here would consider your presence a blessing."

Danica followed the priest of Sekmamun deeper into the tomb.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Only the dim magical glow of a scrying mirror lit the small, sparsely furnished room. Ebonar stared into the murky mirror, unable to discern any visible image, but just catching the spoken words of the pair in the tomb. The bright glow of another mirror activating attracted his eyes, and revealed the face of his master.

"It seems our pawns in the region have secrets that they have not revealed to us," Zoraster remarked.

"Which explains our inability to observe their desecration of the tomb. The shadow warriors are known to die rather than reveal their secrets," Ebonar cautioned.

Zoraster loosed a mocking laugh. "Then let them die. I'm quite sure their souls will be far more cooperative, once our necromancers have given them reason."

"It shall be done, my Master." A wide, sadistic smile spread across Ebonar's handsome face. "We may choose freely from our wizards of death, because they have completed their current task."

"Yes," Zoraster hissed. "The wards hold?"

"For now. They will fail in time."

"But not before the dead witch's demonic patron expends much power in breaking them to regain the soul we stole from him."

"Our homely priestess finds much favor with her goddess as well," Ebonar added. "I believe that she will see the inner sanctum of the temple soon."

Master and servant both smiled in anticipation.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The air grew slightly cooler as Danica descended into the rock-cut tomb. The artwork of the corridor grew more ornate with each few feet, and she could see the glitter of precious metal and jewels illuminated by flickering torchlight at the end of the corridor.

When she entered the first chamber with Harkhuf, the sight of the treasures there nearly took her breath away. Everything was adorned with silver, gold, and gems. The furniture and other goods buried with the Pharaoh were scattered about the room, and many showed signs of vandals having pried away valuable decorations. Two bare-chested men in kilts moved things in the chamber, attempting to set it aright again. A third wrote on a sheet of papyrus, and Danica could tell from what he said to the others that he was taking notes about necessary repairs to the funeral goods.

"There is so much of value left here," Danica remarked. "If they were just after treasure, they surely would have taken more."

"Likely, they carried a fortune," Harkhuf argued. "I do agree with you, however. That which they took was well considered. The statuettes of servants that toil for the Pharaoh in the afterlife, adornments bearing his name... Everything taken was meant to cause the Pharaoh the most distress in the next life. What they did not take, they damaged. This was a desecration, not a robbery."

After a quick look around in the second sight, Danica said, "There's no magic here, either. There are several tendrils coming from deeper in the tomb, though."

"It is there that the priests call upon the gods to restore the mummy of the Pharaoh. This too was desecrated — dismembered — leaving his Ba stranded between the worlds, destroying the joining of his Ba and Ka as Akh."

Danica shivered, feeling a surge in the unsettling aura that she'd felt from the moment she'd approached the tomb. "That's what I'm feeling, isn't it? It feels angry — pained."

"Yes. The lack of magic explains why it is so difficult for the priests to restore Pharaoh's mummy. That is paramount to Pharaoh's peace in the afterlife. This, itself, weakens the gods. The great priests and leaders who stand at their side give them much power. The loss of a Pharaoh's Akh is no small matter."

Danica noticed something in Harkhuf's tone and his expression. "There's more, isn't there?"

"The gods seem — for lack of a better word — distracted."

Danica's eyes widened a little. "The entire pantheon?"

"Not just the gods of my land — all of the gods."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Tayetet lounged on her cushions, though the goddess was far from at leisure. As did most of the gods, part of her power and consciousness fought against the breech to the hells. Unlike many of the deities, she also fought to revive a favored servant against a deadening of magic that defied even her immortal power.

The goddess opened her eyes when she felt another power request admittance to her realm. A beautiful smile crossed her face, and an absent thought caused her silken gown to thin, becoming transparent. Her ample breasts and the curls on her mound now revealed, Tayetet let a curtain of her red hair fall over one side of her face, and granted the request.

Her smile widened upon seeing the tented cloth of Sekmamun's kilt, evidence that her display and advances toward her fellow god were not falling into infertile soil.

The god sat down upon Tayetet's cushions and stroked his hand over her hip. "You know of my visions?"

"Of course," The goddess purred. Her fingers reaching out to caress his godly phallus left no ambiguity as to her desires.

"I have had another," Sekmamun offered, his hand slipping to her rounded bottom. "One which may give you ease, as well as offer more."

The goddess moaned from his touch, her hand curling around his cock to feel it throbbing with desire.

Sekmamun's fingers traveled again, reaching Tayetet's heavenly garden of fiery curls. "Allow me to show you."

Quivering with desire, the goddess nodded.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Utilizing the magic of her earrings, Danica spoke with one of the ranking priests in the second treasure-filled chamber of the tomb, discussing the possibility of adding runic protections to the guardian magic of the tomb. The stone scribe spell that she'd found in the library of Sekmamun would allow her to do so quickly, and she hoped that perhaps such might help to soften the current Pharaoh's heart. Anything that could possibly avert the onset of war was worth a try.

Danica felt an odd, powerful attraction toward the holy of holies, the burial chamber of the tomb, now only a few feet away beyond two life-sized and life-like depictions of the Pharaoh at the epitome of manly youth. Her feet fidgeted upon the smooth stone floor of their own volition, pointing toward the door, where weak tendrils of magic fought to emerge from the stone to serve the priests tirelessly chanting within.

Harkhuf frequently glanced toward the burial chamber as Danica spoke with the priest, and she paused when the priest of the necropolis turned toward the tomb, his expression blank and his eyes distant.

Still fighting against the tug drawing her deeper into the tomb, Danica turned toward Harkhuf with the intention of using her telepathy to ask if he understood what was happening. Before she could do so, Harkhuf said, "The gods call."

The other priest then scanned the treasure chamber, and immediately walked toward an ornate wooden box. From this box, he pulled forth an exquisite sistrum crafted of bronze, and ornamented with gold. Harkhuf also opened a box, removing an equally beautiful flute. Danica noticed that the chanting within the burial chamber had ceased when one of the priests within emerged. As had Harkhuf and the other priest, this man removed a harp from yet another beautiful storage box.

Danica knew the reason for the instruments without anyone mentioning it to her. She could feel the music resonating through her body, and feel her feet gliding through steps that she'd never performed. Euphoria and arousal flooded through Danica's body, pushing away the dry chill of the air.

The men walked toward the burial chamber as Danica let her robe fall to the floor and shuddered. Her brassiere quickly followed, and she stepped out of her panties as she followed the priests into the final resting place of the Pharaoh.

Danica was dimly aware that the priests within the room had retreated to a far wall, leaving the unwrapped mummy of the Pharaoh upon a table near his sarcophagus. The corpse was dismembered — dark, dry, and alien looking — although still obviously a recognizable man. Some small, conscious part of Danica even noticed resemblance to the current Pharaoh and his sons.

Without instruction, either verbal or silent, she found her mark near the head of the table supporting the body. Also unconsciously, she struck the same pose as a depiction of Tayetet on the wall behind her, creating a living image of the remarkably similar goddess. She closed her eyes, but she could feel her runes coming alight upon her skin without seeing them.

The others in the room saw the pale blue runes, and also observed hieroglyphs in the same glowing hue emerge from the painted skin of the goddess relief behind Danica. As Danica understood her mark, so too did the priests with their instruments know their cue. Harkhuf brought the pipe to his lips, and the song began.

Danica danced, feeling the music permeating her — guiding her. She caressed both her body and the table as she moved with sinuous grace. She knew that her motions were more than a dance. Her fingers, her hands, and then her feet traced runes upon the stone floor, into the air, upon the table, and onto her nude body.

The tempo of the music increased, and so too did the intensity of Danica's dance. Her auburn hair whipped as she moved, her breasts jiggling and swinging from the motion of her body. The Awakening surged within her, making her wet enough to drip down her rune-emblazoned thighs.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 15



Though she didn't notice it, because she was caught up in her dance and her arousal, every kilt in the room lifted as the men's ardor rose in response to the scent of her arousal, which now tickled their noses as they played. Even the other two priests in the room had joined in the music, clapping out percussion for those playing the instruments.

The music and Danica's dancing grew more fervent as the seconds passed, rising to a crescendo as she whirled about the table, moving toward its head once more. After a final, rapid spiral, her hair whipping out into a fiery halo around her, Danica's palms came to rest on the table in front of her. She threw her head back, thrusting her stiff nipples toward the heavens above, and burst into orgasm.

Danica's juices spurted from her, spattering across the table, and running down her thighs. She cried out in ecstasy, shuddering from the power of her climax. Five groans joined her as the priests turned musicians spurted their seed into their kilts. The final notes of the music lingered, echoing throughout the tomb to join the gasps and pants of those within.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Tayetet quivered, her immortal suitor's cock pulsing within her, the final consummation of a courtship lasting many mortal lifetimes. She caressed Sekmamun's cheek, part of her consciousness reveling in his presence and her ecstasy, the other observing the scene in the tomb.

Still gripped by the intensity of the dance and its culmination, no one in the room observed the Ba of the Pharaoh forming above his mummy, now whole once more. The human face of the falcon lifted toward the heavens, its energy restored, and then spread its wings. A moment later, the joyful Akh of the Pharaoh coalesced within Tayetet's realm, his Ba and Ka once more joined as one.

The goddess felt a two-fold surge of power, both from her coupling with Sekmamun, and the restoration of her favored servant. She immediately lent a measure of this power to the effort of holding back the demonic rift. Both she and her paramour felt a new presence at the same time, and shared a groan as he pulled free of her warm, wet embrace.

Osiran, head of the pantheon, offered a nod as the couple bowed their heads, and the servants of the goddess prostrated themselves in worship.

"This is a time of import," Osiran declared, and extended his hands in a blessing over the immortal couple before him.

Sekmamun and Tayetet both felt the blessing wash over them, and more. They knew what needed to be done.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Only Danica's hands resting on the table prevented her wobbly knees from collapsing. She panted for breath, her juices still dripping from her labia and running down her thighs. Her eyelids fluttered open when Harkhuf draped her discarded robe over her nude, trembling body.

Naturally, she saw the mummy of the Pharaoh first. The body was whole, as though it had never been cruelly dismembered. A glance around showed the priests leaning against the tomb walls, panting for breath even as she was, their tented kilts drooping.

Harkhuf's manhood also slowly sank, and she accepted his help with a nod when he quietly offered to help her stand and dress. Clad in her robe once more, though her panties and brassiere still lay upon the cold stone where she'd discarded them, Danica asked, "What was that?"

"I cannot say for sure, but I believe that the gods channeled their power through you, and this somehow overcame the deadening of magic."

Danica let her vision slip into the second sight, but almost immediately pulled away. "The room is so awash in magical power now that I can't even look at it."

A golden glow arose behind Danica, and the priests in front of her immediately dropped to their knees. Harkhuf turned his head and did likewise. Danica spun around, unsure if she should kneel as well, and squinted to try to see through the aura surrounding the man who had appeared behind her.

"Rise," a voice very similar to that of the current Pharaoh entreated. The light faded, and Danica could see the living face of the man whose body lay on the table around which she'd danced.

The Ba of the dead Pharaoh stepped forward, his eyes centered on Danica. She felt more than a little uncomfortable under his gaze, though his manner was anything but threatening. "Truly you resemble the goddess. Though I have stood at the side of Tayetet, I am blessed to have you dance for me, even as you have for the seed of my loins."

"The blessing is mine, Pharaoh," Danica responded with a bow of her head, at a loss for words.

An aura of the same golden light that had heralded the appearance of the Pharaoh shone about his hand. When it faded, he held a curious golden amulet. "The all-seeing eye — a gift from Osiran. You will know when to call upon it."

Danica accepted the amulet, and as soon as the attached golden chain pooled in her hand, the Pharaoh raised his eyes to the heavens. He vanished as if he had never been. There one second, and gone the next.

The ranking necropolis priest called out orders, instructing his subordinates to fetch the linen and amulets to properly wrap the corpse of the Pharaoh, that he might be laid to rest once more.

Harkhuf took Danica's hand, and led her out of the tomb after she tied her robe closed. Along the way, he gathered up the remainder of her clothing. Danica put on her shoes, but stuffed her bra and panties into pockets of her robe. She noticed that the other priests wore almost fearful expressions of awe as she passed them in the chambers where they had worked. Quick blinks into the second sight showed the natural flow of magic restored throughout the tomb. She also recognized the near blinding power of the amulet in her hand, though it looked and felt completely common otherwise.

Danica placed the amulet around her neck upon entering the final chamber before the corridor that led to the surface. It felt like any normal piece of jewelry, though she almost always could sense something of the magic in an item, especially when it was directly against her skin.

Once within a few steps of the entrance, Harkhuf said, "If anything will moderate the anger of Pharaoh, this will."

"Do you think it will be enough?"

He shook his head, his expression grave. "That, I cannot say."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Celes looked up from where she and Ashley were watching a demon that they thought might be a likely target to capture. "You're looking a little down. Everything okay?"

Marlena smiled and nodded as she crossed the lab. "Brandon is just going to be away from the Hall for a few days. Andrea should be home soon. She was saying goodbye to her new friend when I last saw her."

"You keeping an eye on her?" Celes asked with concern in her voice as she pulled out one of the cushioned chairs so that Marlena could sit down.

"It worries me a little, too. The Duchess has people watching, and she says that she hasn't seen anything to concern her so far. What are you scrying for?"

Ashley answered, "It's a demon that might be a good one to capture. We've seen it meeting with other demons, and they've been deferring to it. Either it's a leader that might know something, or it's risking its master's ire by following its own agenda." 

"Where's Danica?"

"She got a disturbing letter from Tari and went to see if she could turn some things around," Celes answered. "It looks like the East is going to boil over into war, too."

Edna walked into the lab, wearing a look of concern that grew even deeper after her eyes quickly scanned the room. "Has anyone seen Danielle?"

Celes said, "I haven't," and then looked to Ashley and Marlena, who both shook their heads in the negative.

Edna approached the table, pulling a piece of paper from her pocket as she walked. "The girls keep vanishing, one at a time, for a little while here and there. The others cover for them, and even my power isn't helping."

Ashley started at that revelation. "You can't read their minds?"

"Oh, I can hear what they're thinking well enough, and I know they're fibbing to me. I don't know how they're doing it, but they're fibbing to me." Edna unfolded the piece of paper onto the table.

Marlena glanced at the drawing and asked, "Is that a map of the valley?"

Edna answered, "I've been drawing it when I take the girls for walks." She tapped the map and said, "I was hoping you could scry for her, and track her down so that I can find out what they're up to."

"Of course. Let me get my crystal." Ashley scooted back her chair to rise.

Celes gestured for her to remain seated. "No need." She then pulled her crystal pendant from around her neck. "Thought it might be a good idea to keep mine with me all the time."

Edna handed Celes a few strands of hair. "From her brush."

Celes nodded, and curled the strands around the chain of her pendant. She dangled the crystal over Edna's map, and it almost immediately snapped down to the paper, just outside the lines of what the elder witch had drawn.

"That's within the mists at the edge of the valley," Edna explained.

Celes slipped her crystal back around her neck as she stood. "I don't like the sound of that."

Edna shook her head. "There's nothing here that would harm any of us."

Celes looked less than convinced. "I'm going to fetch her back — and find out what they're up to."

Ashley stood as well. "I'll come with you. You shouldn't go alone."

Marlena walked to Celes' side. "I haven't really explored the valley. I'll come too."

"Be cautious within the mists," Edna warned.

"I thought you said that there was nothing that would harm us?" Celes questioned.

"Harm — no. Surprise and unnerve you — yes," Edna cryptically explained.

Ashley squeezed her surrogate mother's hand as she walked around the table to join Celes and Marlena. "We'll be careful, and we'll find out why they're sneaking off."

With that, she joined the other two, and Celes led them toward the front door of the manor.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Harkhuf emerged from within the great palace of Pharaoh, and crossed the limestone, worn smooth by the sandals of people for thousands of years. "Pharaoh will see us. Something has happened in the palace to cause great excitement."

"Preparations for war?" Danica speculated as she fell in behind the shaven-headed priest.

"No. Those closest to Pharaoh seem to be in awe."

Once through the older, common areas of the palace and into the more opulent center, people stepped aside when Danica approached, their expressions reflecting the awe of which Harkhuf had spoken. That awe, beyond any possibility of argument, was directed at Danica.

'Why is everyone staring at me like I have two heads?'

Harkhuf started a little from the unexpected telepathic voice, and then answered, 'I am unsure.'

Little snippets of thoughts and emotions assaulted Danica as she tapped into her mental powers. The onslaught was so powerful and constant that she could barely sift out a few impressions. Thoughts of Tayetet, Pharaoh, the afterlife, and the gods stabbed into her brain, forcing Danica to mentally wrench away. The effort left her with barely enough conscious thought to keep following Harkhuf.

Danica finally mastered her powers, blocking out the thoughts of those around her, to discover that she and Harkhuf stood just outside Pharaoh's great hall, awaiting admittance. Seconds later, a man in ceremonial garb stepped into the doorway and bade them to enter.

Harkhuf and Danica crossed the polished granite floor to the throne, which was surrounded by what appeared to be the entire extended royal family. Pharaoh stood as the pair approached, his face decorated with a wide smile. When they reached the foot of the dais, Danica bowed her head in a gesture of respect.

Gasps rang out from all around the chamber when the Pharaoh bowed his head in response. With that simple gesture, he had bestowed upon her the same rank as a visiting King. Harkhuf was shocked as well, and his thoughts rang out in Danica's head to reveal the significance of the moment to her. 

Pharaoh stepped down from the dais and held out his hand. Danica took it, and the man said, "Welcome, Danica. Your visit is but one of many great blessings that you have bestowed upon us this day. Generations have come and gone since last one of the God-Kings returned to this mortal world to commune with the seed of his loins."

Danica didn't really know what he was talking about, but she could feel an undercurrent of joy mixed with the awe rolling over her from the family of the Pharaoh. She couldn't think of any appropriate response, and so just smiled as Pharaoh's jewel adorned hand patted hers.

"The God-King came to us this day, to bestow blessings and wisdom upon us. First of the wisdom is the knowledge of what you have done this day. You have our gratitude for serving the gods to return the God-King to his place in the afterlife, at the side of the goddess. It is a debt we can never repay."

"I don't know how much I had to do with it." Danica's cheeks filled with color. A second later, she decided to take advantage of the situation. "If you would reward me, then consider carefully the decision to go to war."

Pharaoh's face tightened. "This wisdom has been imparted upon us as well. Someone from outside our lands sought to draw us into war through this unspeakable act. We are now wise to the deception, but fear it will not prevent the coming conflict."

"But..." Danica began.

Pharaoh smiled and raised a hand, interrupting her. "We will not bring war to the men beyond the desert." He took a deep breath, his smile fading. "It is our fear, and that of the gods, that they will bring war to us. Those who sought to rouse my anger have awakened wrath in the men beyond the desert as well."

"Someone did something horrible, and left something behind to blame it on you," Danica speculated. She knew the depths to which Zoraster would sink, and it appeared that his replacement shared that quality.

Pharaoh nodded. "Young men of our land, too easily influenced by wealth, attacked a village. The women were taken, and the men hanged."

Harkhuf shook his head and sighed. "Hanging is considered the most dishonorable death amongst the people."

"The village is the birthplace of their Emperor," Pharaoh added.

Danica smiled. "Then someone needs to show them the truth before things get out of hand."

"He will not be swayed. I know his rage. Only the intervention of the gods stayed my hand."

Danica smiled at Pharaoh and said, "Then it's time to see if I can conjure up another miracle."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Marlena peered into the swirling mists that forever shrouded the edge of the valley that she and her friends called home. "I don't see her. I don't see anything."

"How could she possibly find her way through that?" Ashley pondered as she also strained her eyes into the mists.

"A better question is how we're going to." Celes reached out into the wall of mist. The vapors remained confined, almost as if within a magical bubble, until she pulled her hand back. A puff of the strangely warm fog swirled out around her hand.

Marlena suggested, "Maybe we should just call for her."

Celes passed her hand back into the clouds again, but swept it to the side this time. For just a moment, she opened a gap in the mists. A tingle passed through her arm, and Celes recognized the sensation. "Or maybe we can go in and find out what she's up to before she knows we're here."

Marlena shrugged, silently asking, How? Ashley, attuned to her sister witch and the magic of the valley, believed that she knew the answer.

"Like this." Celes stepped forward and swept her arms out to the side. The mists parted, leaving her standing in a clear bubble. She looked back over her shoulder and whispered, "Come along now, and be quiet. Let's see what the little missy is about." 

Ashley followed even before Celes had finished speaking. Marlena hesitated for a fraction of a second, but she trusted her two friends, and fell in only a half step behind the redheaded witch.

Celes waved her hand in graceful gestures to the sides, opening a corridor as she walked. After only a few steps, she could see a shape forming ahead. A few steps more, and she recognized a cave entrance that shown with a faint, blue light.

"This has to be it," Celes said, and gestured for the other two to follow. She crept up to the edge of the cave, and peeked inside.

Danielle sat upon the floor of the cave with her blouse bunched up above her breasts, her skirt gathered at her hips, and her panties hanging from one ankle. She was staring into an oddly glowing crystal, caressing her breasts with one hand, and furiously masturbating with the other.

Just as Marlena and Ashley looked into the cave, around Celes, Danielle came with a choked off whimper.

Marlena tugged on Celes' sleeve and whispered into her ear. "We should go before she sees us, and realizes what we saw."

Ashley had already stepped back, and Marlena moved away from the entrance as well. A frightened gasp from within the cave let Celes know that she hadn't quite moved quickly enough. She stepped back into the entrance of the cave, waving her hand to indicate that Ashley and Marlena should stay back, thinking that it might be marginally less embarrassing for Danielle if she thought that only one person had seen her.

Danielle tugged down her blouse, smoothed out her skirt, and tried to hide the crystal behind her.

Celes stepped into the cave. "Dearie, it's nothing to be ashamed of. I do it. All women do. We've told you that, Danielle. There's nothing wrong with making yourself feel good."

"So, I'm not in trouble?" Danielle asked in a small voice, her face bright red with shame.

"For that — of course not. For sneakin' off — maybe."

Danielle hung her head and muttered, "Sorry."

"We'll worry about that later. What are you looking at there?"

Somehow, Danielle's blush deepened. "It's... Uhm... It's a magic crystal."

"Magic, you say?" Celes tried to keep her voice neutral, but when Danielle moved aside a bit, the sight of the crystal made Celes a little worried. It was obviously magical — glowing with a reddish-pink light not unlike Danielle's blush — and Celes could see movement in the heart of the crystal.

"There are lots of them in here. They all show different things," Danielle offered, mistaking Celes' concern for curiosity, and hoping it might distract the dark haired woman — perhaps enough that Celes would forget about the sneaking away.

Celes leaned in just a bit closer, and apparently crossed some sort of magical boundary. The flicker of movement in the crystal expanded, and suddenly she could see the image filling her vision. A young man lay on a bed, panting for breath, his softening cock in his hand, and a trail of semen decorating his dark-haired chest.

Celes cleared her throat as she leaned back. "So they do." She hadn't sensed anything malevolent in the magic, though she did notice a little mental tickle, similar to when Danica spoke to her telepathically.

The crystal looked naturally formed, and she couldn't detect any sort of magical aura around it in her second sight. That led her to believe it was blessed by witchcraft.

"You say there are more?"

"They're everywhere. Just look around, and you'll see them."

Celes peered through the gloom of the cave, and a flicker of red light caught her eye a few feet away. As soon as she concentrated on it, the crystal flared to life.

"Not the red one!" Danielle cried out.

The image sprang to life in front of Celes. She saw a black robed figure with long, wild, dark hair, facing away from her. Almost immediately, the figure spun toward her and thrust out a hand. She caught just a glimpse of his face before the crystal exploded.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 15



{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Impossible!" Zoraster snarled, staring at the wall where he'd just directed an instinctive blast of pure magical energy.

"M-master?" Caterina asked, stunned by his suddenly unleashed power, and frightened by the tone in his voice.

Zoraster growled, "Leave me," and tossed down the dagger that he had prepared to draw his blonde servant's blood. His eyes never left the spot on the wall that had attracted his attention.

The Archmage lifted his hand and examined his long, dexterous fingers. Though still disturbed by feeling the eyes of someone upon him — something that should be impossible for even the gods, thanks to his magic — he was more intrigued by the sudden burst of energy that had ended the threat.

Though Godsbane resided within his robes, as it always did, he hadn't felt the artifact react. The blast was not associated with the runes now adorning his flesh, or any item in his possession. Zoraster recalled a roar in his head, similar to a powerful wind echoing in his ears. He tried to call upon this mysterious power, but nothing happened.

Zoraster stepped around his desk, pulled out the chair, and sat down to contemplate the two unexplainable occurrences.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Celes sat up to see Ashley stooping down to assist her, while Marlena hurried to Danielle.

"Are you okay? What happened?" Ashley asked.

"Good question," Celes groggily answered. She winced as she felt a cut on her arm, and a pair of scratches across her tummy. The exploding shards had also left numerous rips in her clothing.

Marlena led the young clone of Danica over to join them, nearer the entrance of the cave. "Danielle's okay. She just has a couple of red marks."

"Never the red one. It shows scary things. I'm sorry," Danielle apologized in a rush.

Celes regained her feet and said, "It's alright, Dearie. You tried to warn me." Her voice lost some of its strength and volume when she added, "And you're right about it showing scary things."

Marlena didn't like the slight quaver of fear in her normally unflappable friend's voice. "What is it, Celes?"

Celes shook her head. "Not here. Not now. Let's go back to the manor. I need a minute to sort this out in my head. We may as well call the rest of the girls out so that we can get to the bottom of this all at once, too."

Everyone nodded, and followed Celes out of the cave. Celes closed her eyes once outside, and sent her thoughts to Danica with all of her will, on the off chance that the redhead could hear them. 'Be careful, Danica.'

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Danica?"

Harkhuf's word echoed the ghostly, faint one that Danica had heard in her head a moment earlier. That call of her name had carried a note of warning, and a sense of Celes with it. Since she planned to use her magic to contact the manor before she left, she didn't feel overly urgent.

"Sorry, I was lost in thought."

"Though the Chipons may not kill you on sight, as they would one from our land, they are on edge, and ever distrustful of outsiders."

Danica offered the priest a comforting smile and responded, "I have to try. I'm hardly a sacrificial lamb, you know?"

"Never that," Harkhuf agreed. "You are blessed of Sekmamun, Tayetet — perhaps all of the gods."

"I don't know about that, but I'll take all the blessings that I can get."

Tari walked into the room, carrying a scroll. "Here is the map."

Danica accepted it. "Thank you."

"I wish I could offer more, but I know of none who have traveled the lands beyond the desert. Even during times of relative peace, our people did not mingle."

"Just say a prayer for me, Harkhuf." Danica unrolled the map on the large table in the priest's study so that she could familiarize herself with the journey ahead.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Celes put her hands on her hips and offered a stern glance. "Okay now, girls — are we clear?"

A chorus of affirmative answers arose from the assembled clones.

"Good. Give us a chance to study the cave, and then maybe you can go back. For now, we just think it's too dangerous. Go on and practice your reading."

The girls filed out, but Edna remained behind, her expression saying that she had something on her mind.

Andrea had returned shortly after the trio had left to find Danielle, and asked the question on everyone else's mind. "Celes, what did you see?"

"I'm not sure. It only lasted for a bit of a second, but I could have sworn that it was..." Celes had to pause and take a deep breath before she could continue.

"Zoraster."

Marlena turned as white as a ghost and had to grip the edge of the table to keep her feet.

Andrea steadied the illusionist, helping her into a chair. Though Andrea knew of the horrors that Zoraster had wrought, the only time she had experienced his twisted hand in her life, he had erased her memory of it. "But, he's dead."

Celes waved her hand in a dismissive gesture. "I saw the mad bastard dead with my own eyes. We left him shrouded in a dispell, so magic couldn't save him."

"Perhaps it's a clone — like the girls," Ashley suggested.

Celes sat down, her head reeling at that possibility. "Maybe. He seemed powerful, and anyone that can shatter a scrying device with a wave of his hand is dangerous."

Flashes of memory from the incident caused her eyebrows to twitch upward. Celes tapped her nail on the table and said, "I'm not so sure that I didn't destroy the crystal myself, though. I know I panicked, so I might have used my power instinctively."

Ashley nodded. "Your power to move things telekinetically is triggered by fear. Something that scared you that much might have focused your powers and destroyed the source of the threat — the crystal."

"We should still warn Danica," Marlena intimated, her face still ashen, and her hands trembling.

Edna stepped forward. "If it is a clone, it might not be as bad as you might think. Danica told me the story about..."

Edna suddenly froze, her words cut off in mid-sentence as she placed her hand on the table.

Ashley immediately moved to the elder witch's side. When Edna's eyes popped open and she gasped, Ashley asked, "Was it a premonition?"

Edna nodded, and allowed Ashley to help her sit down. "A witch — someone I don't know — a demon was killing her and taking her powers."

"Do you know where?" Andrea asked.

Edna shook her head. "A small house. Red shutters on the window. Poppies in the window box."

Ashley knelt down next to her mentor. Edna's words had a ring of familiarity, and prompted her to ask. "What about the demon?"

Edna shrugged. "I didn't recognize it. It looked human, except for dark gray skin and horns." Her brow furrowed, and she said, "There were other demons there, but they didn't attack."

Ashley's gaze snapped to the table, where Edna had placed her hand when the premonition struck. The spot was near to the scrying bowl that she and Celes were using before Edna asked after Danielle. "Didn't one of those houses that the demon watched have poppies in the window box?"

"And red shutters," Celes agreed.

Ashley turned back to Edna. "Do you know when it will happen?"

"Daylight. I'm not sure. The premonition felt rushed — jumpy. Soon, I think."

"We have to help her," Andrea declared.

"We don't even know what kind of demon it is, yet," Ashley argued, "And we already know that there's more than one."

"I think she's right. This is important. I wouldn't have gotten the premonition if it wasn't."

Having her ever cautious — sometimes over cautious — mentor suggest immediate action with such conviction was all Ashley needed. "We should go." She turned and walked to the cabinet where she kept potions to combat hellspawn.

"I'll get the crystals, just in case we have a chance to trap the critter, since that's why we were watching it anyway." Celes hurried to another cabinet on the opposite side of the room.

Ashley handed Marlena several potions, gave the illusionist a quick explanation of what each one did, and then signaled to Celes.

"Be careful," Edna cautioned.

"We will," Ashley's words sounded distant, because Celes had already summoned up the mists to carry them on their way.

The fog had barely vanished when another misty shape took its place. The image of Danica said, "Edna, where's everyone else?"

"I had a premonition. They went to try to stop a demon from killing a witch."

"Should I come back?"

"I don't know that you could find them if you did."

Danica sighed and said, "I could probably find them, but it would take time." After a moment of consideration, she added, "They all have my charms that they can break if they need me, too. I can find them for sure then."

"They're doing what they were born to do, and I have a feeling that you are, too."

"Everything happens for a reason?"

"For a reason," Edna repeated, wearing a wide smile.

"Tell them that I'll try again later."

"I will. Be careful."

The image of Danica nodded, and then faded from sight.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica turned to Harkhuf as her spell ended. "I feel guilty about not going to help them, but I probably couldn't even find them before the battle is over. Still..."

"As you said in your spell, things happen for a reason. Perhaps you are not meant to undertake this journey alone."

Danica smiled and stepped closer to trace her fingertips under his chin. She was having a harder time resisting the handsome priest by the moment. "You're bound and determined to keep me here, aren't you?"

Harkhuf smiled and brought her fingers to his lips to kiss them. "Not for that reason — though I would hardly consider it an ill outcome."

"I'll be fine. I've learned my lesson about trying to go it alone. I just need to start now, and then I'll call for help as soon as I can." Danica pursed her lips and mused, "I bet that Marlena could disguise us so well that we could walk around openly."

"If what you say of her command over the magic of illusion is true, I would consider it a wise choice."

"See, I'm thinking ahead. Stop worrying." With that, Danica leaned in to kiss him.

As their lips parted, Harkhuf said in a quiet voice, "Now I consider the other reason to keep you here far more acutely."

Danica shivered and agreed, "Me too. I should go, before I forget where I'm going."

"Go with my blessing, and my prayers."

Danica nodded and left the priest's study to say goodbye to Tari and Rehkmire. She had just as much trouble resisting the surge of arousal when she kissed the young couple in turn as she'd experienced with Harkhuf. Determination carried her out the front door into the desert heat.

She made her way through the still agitated city and absently caressed the token that Harkhuf had given her to gain admittance to the temple of Sekmamun. From there, she would use one of the travel doors to reach the far eastern edge of the desert — the beginning of her journey.

Having never visited those lands even when Zoraster was sending her all over the world, she knew of nowhere closer to teleport. She would have to make her way to the Imperial seat the hard way.

She'd considered using the Hellgate and its ability to move from a known place to another, but decided that she should try to get a feel for how the Chipons were reacting and preparing for war, first. The Hellgate or Celes' gift would come into play later, to save days of walking or flying.

The guard at the gate of the temple let her pass when she showed him the token, although he didn't look pleased about it. Once she passed into the magically cooled interior of the opulent temple, Danica offered a silent prayer for her friends' safety, and then concentrated on remembering Harkhuf's directions to reach the portal room within the labyrinth-like building.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The mists cleared, and Celes could just make out the interior of a small, sparsely furnished room. The next thing she knew, a foot slammed into her abdomen, sending her hurtling between her friends and into a wall.

"Celes!" Andrea called out as she, Ashley, and Marlena fell back.

When the mists completely vanished, Celes had sunk down to the floor on her bottom, the wind knocked out of her. A woman with close-cropped brown hair stood facing them with her hand thrust forward, the fingers splayed wide.

Marlena collapsed to the floor as if a giant foot had stomped on her. Her eyes were wide open in fear.

"Wait, we're not your enemies," Andrea called as she knelt down next to Celes.

"You're immune to my power," The woman muttered without lowering her hand.

Ashley stepped between the frightened woman and Marlena. "That's because we're witches. Please, she can't breathe!"

The woman hesitated for a second, and then let her hand fall. Marlena sucked in a loud, noisy breath, and then began to cough along with Celes.

Ashley sighed in relief and explained, "We're here to help. A demon is going to attack you."

The woman dropped into a fighting crouch, her eyes still wary. "Who are you?"

Ashley checked on her friends to find Andrea caring for Celes and Marlena. "I'm Ashley. Please, we're not going to hurt you."

"Too... Too bad that's not mutual," Celes managed to say between gasps for breath.

Ashley reached into the neckline of her blouse, but paused when the short-haired witch tensed. "I just want to show you something." She waited a second more, and then drew out the chain and charm around her neck.

The other woman relaxed with a great sigh upon seeing the charm. "Sorry. You just appeared out of nowhere and..." She walked closer and winced at the sight of Celes and Marlena struggling to rise. "I'm a little on edge."

"I guess so," Celes remarked as she regained her feet. "Nice kick."

"Thanks — and sorry. My name is Evelyn."

"Celes."

Andrea finished her prayer to the Earth Mother, and Marlena was able to sit up. "I'm Andrea, and this is Marlena."

"You saw a demon coming?" Evelyn asked.

Ashley assisted Andrea in helping Marlena to stand up, and said, "A friend — she has premonitions."

"Do you know when? What kind of demon?"

"Just daylight," Ashley answered. "I guess this isn't a great surprise?"

Evelyn shook her head. "We've lost two sisters in our coven recently."

"Do you have any clues at all about what kind of demon did it?"

A shudder shook Evelyn's body, and she covered her eyes.

"Sit down," Andrea suggested, having hurried to the short-haired witch's side upon making sure that Celes and Marlena were both okay.

"I'm sorry. It's just..."

Celes pulled out a chair, having recognized the sound in Evelyn's voice — budding despair. Once Andrea helped the other witch to sit, Celes said, "Take your time."

After a deep breath, Evelyn shook her head. "There may not be time. Trina and Callie were... The demon took them. Either it was immune to their powers or..."

Even Andrea, who had not experienced the horror of Zoraster's madness, understood what Evelyn had left unspoken. Her stomach went sour as she considered whether it would be worse to be raped by a demon before or after it killed you.

"It was a knife or a dagger that killed them," Evelyn finished.

Kneeling down next to the chair, Ashley asked, "I know it's hard, but what powers did they have?"

"Trina was one of the strongest in our coven. She could control light to turn invisible, burn things, create illusions — it seemed like she found a new way to use her powers every day. Callie could pass through things like a ghost. We'd only just found her and convinced her to accept her powers."

Celes noticed that there were a lot of weapons, potions, and charms in the room. After looking around for a few seconds, she could see that something was within arm's reach from every square inch of the room. "You were using yourself as bait."

With a nod of her head, Evelyn confirmed Celes' suspicion. "I'm the strongest now, and I have more than my powers to fight with."

"So I found out," Celes responded, and offered a wide smile to stave off any guilt that the other witch might feel.

"Your friend who had the premonition... Did my plan work?"

Ashley paused for a moment before she answered, "She saw the demon kill you."

"But you were alone, and you aren't any more," Andrea was quick to add.

Marlena suggested, "What if I cast mirroroom?"

Celes broke out into a wide smile, and explained to everyone else. "The spell Marlena is talking about lasts for days, and causes anyone entering a room after it is cast to see everything inside backwards, like they were looking in a mirror."

"If the demon was able to overcome Trina and Callie's powers, it can probably see through the illusion," Evelyn disagreed.

"Witch powers," Celes clarified. "Marlena's spell is wizard magic, and there's nobody better at illusions than her. We've already seen her illusions confuse powerful greater demons."

Ashley shrugged and grinned. "It certainly can't hurt, and I have to agree with Celes about how good Marlena's illusions are."

As Marlena reached into one of her pouches for spell components, Celes was glad to see the smile on the redhead's face. The illusionist had always doubted her abilities and usefulness, so seeing her participating with confidence was a heartening sign.

Once Marlena completed the spell, Ashley said, "We've actually been scrying on a demon that has been watching your house. It wasn't the same one that Edna described from her premonition, though. We're trying to capture demons to force information out of them."

"What did she say it looked like?" Evelyn inquired.

"Gray-skinned, horns, mostly..." Ashley never had the opportunity to finish.

The door burst open, giving everyone an up close look at the demon Ashley had started to describe. It didn't waste a second, but instead lunged for Evelyn with an unnerving scream — or so it thought.

The demon's claws slammed into a curio cabinet rather than wrapping around Evelyn's throat, as the hellspawn saw Marlena's reversed illusion. Evelyn lashed out with her power, but nothing happened.

Two more demons burst into the room on the heels of the other. Celes thrust out with her power, slamming the gray demon into the cabinet — stunning the already confused monster. The red-skinned minor demons weren't nearly as lucky as their master, because Andrea was the first to see them. Frost rimed the flesh of the demons for a few instants once she brought her power to bear, and then the demons exploded in a gout of flame.

Ashley waved her hand at the groggy gray demon, and it froze in place. For a few seconds, everyone remained tense, prepared for more demons to pour through the door. When none did, Evelyn remarked, "Your powers worked, but mine didn't."

"The demons must be studying your coven and finding ways to counter your powers before they attack. They didn't know we were going to be here, so they were unprepared," Ashley speculated.

Celes pulled a box out of her bag of holding. "Andrea, help me with the crystals. We may as well put this one in a cage and see if we can wring anything out of it."

The blonde witch hurried to Celes' side and took two of the crystals. Once all five crystals were in place, tendrils of magical energy erupted to form a cage around the demon.

Wearing a smug smile, Celes told Ashley, "Let it loose, and let's see what the critter knows."

Ashley waited until everyone had gathered around Celes, and then waved her hand again. The demon immediately screamed in pain when one of its arms brushed against the boundary of the cage. A second later, it whirled on a spot exactly opposite where the five women stood, its face a mask of rage.

Evelyn suddenly gasped, and grabbed for sleeves and arms to attract the attention of the others. "We have to get out of here!"




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 15



Seeing that the demon appeared to be swelling, Celes instinctively summoned up a globe of invulnerability from one of her magical rings. At the same time, Ashley hurled down a small vial, which caused a curtain of pure white smoke to rise up along the curve of Celes' globe.

The demon exploded.

The cage contained the conflagration for a fraction of a fraction of a second, and then the searing flames erupted to fill the vision of the women gathered in front of it. The shockwave slammed everyone back against the far side of Celes' magical sphere. 

Ashley was the first to recover her vision after the flash, and what she saw stunned her. Evelyn's house was simply gone. Smoldering pieces of it were scattered as far as the eye could see. Even the wooden floor had been blasted away, the earth beneath hurled away to form a crater, save for the circle surrounding the recovering women.

Evelyn looked down and hugged her family book against her chest, tears rolling down her cheeks. The book had protected itself from the blast, thus not depriving her of the wisdom of all the witches that had come before her. "I can't believe we're still alive. I've never heard of anyone surviving a Jihark demon destroying itself."

"I can see why," Celes remarked as she brushed the hair out of her eyes and surveyed the damage. "What was that potion you threw?"

"A shielding potion," Ashley answered.

"It must have been a combination of your potion and my spell, because I don't know that either of them alone would have kept us alive." Celes stuck out her arm, and it passed through the now absent globe of invulnerability. "It almost didn't."

Andrea supported Marlena, who looked pained and dazed. "Are you okay?"

"Just... Just the shock of my spell shattering. I'll be alright."

"I think we should take Evelyn's advice now," Ashley suggested.

Celes nodded her head emphatically in agreement, and called upon her gift to take them home.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ebonar slammed his fist down upon his desk, the force of the blow causing an inkwell and several bottles to tumble over. Somehow, Danica had once again hampered the effort to throw the continent of Nipairo into war. In his magical mirror, he could see the swarthy-skinned desert people preparing for battle — but for defense rather than invasion.

Even more frustrating, he had discovered that the woman was frequently beyond his ability to spy on her. One moment, he could see her with perfect clarity, and the next the mirror would simply go dark. He had no way of knowing that Danica's use of her gift to protect Rehkmire and Tari was responsible, shielding her from his sight whenever she was near them.

The image in said mirror suddenly flashed, showing the face of Ebonar's Master. "I share your anger."

"She must be eliminated — now — while she is separated from the rest of her pack of bitches. I will destroy her, and end her interference."

"No. I have crafted my little rose into a weapon too powerful to risk your direct intervention."

Ebonar bristled at that comment.

"Camilla will be our weapon, when she is ready." Zoraster chuckled, an evil smile spreading across his face. "Others — others do not present such a threat, and will attack Danica at the heart of her strength."

"Celes," Ebonar speculated, his fingers curling into a fist.

The Archmage rolled his eyes and shook his head. "Celes is as much a danger as Danica. No, we will drive the knife into her breast slowly, where she is most vulnerable."

Zoraster waved his hand, and his image vanished to show two others — Andrea and Marlena. "These two separate from the pack as well, and are much more vulnerable. Through them, we shall cut out Danica's heart, and make her vulnerable. I have already set the wheels in motion."

Ebonar waited for his Master to reveal the means of attacking the two women, and then his lip twitched in anger when he realized that no such explanation was forthcoming.

"Inform me when you have obtained the information from the yellow dogs of the East," Zoraster commanded, his voice fading as he dismissed the magic to communicate with his surrogate.

Watching the images fade, Ebonar took heart that he would at least have the pleasure of watching the fate of the two women unfold. Most likely, he would serve a role as well.

Wicked daydreams of having the young blonde witch at his mercy flitted through Ebonar's head, causing his manhood to swell as he loosed a chuckle of dark mirth.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Hope you enjoyed the new chapter. The next couple won't come out quite as fast, and I'm still writing the chapters beyond that, so don't get too spoiled ;) I just wanted to get this one out as a thank-you to everyone who has stuck with me through the long absence of the story.

Keep that feedback coming, because it seems to be working! *laugh* It really does pick me up, and helps me get in the mood to write. That's the fuel that keeps me going, and gets me going when I have the blahs. Even a little 'nice chapter' note in the comment section with nothing more is a smile generator. You don't have to strain to write something deep and thoughtful if the words don't immediately jump to mind. I know I have that problem sometimes when commenting.

More new stories on the near and distant horizon, too. I have a new Mindblind history story about 5/7 done, and the plotting for the sequel to Blackhawk Hall is underway.

Thank you to all the readers, old and new, who take a walk through my world with me.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 16



Author's Notes:

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission. © Darkniciad 2011

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Evelyn's eyes widened in surprised wonder as the mists settled to reveal the study in the manor. "What is this place?"

"Home," Celes answered. "This is our study. We need somewhere safe to put the pieces of this together."

Ashley pulled out a chair at the large central table and gestured for Evelyn to sit down. "I guess the first thing I want to know is how you recognized the demon when I released it from my power."

"The tattoo on its chest," Evelyn answered as she sat down. She ran her fingers through her close-cropped hair. "Jihark demons all look different, but they all have that symbol."

"Glad to see you alive," Edna remarked from the doorway as she entered.

Ashley introduced her mentor. "This is Edna. She's the one that had the premonition."

Andrea stood up and pulled out a chair for Edna as the old witch approached. Edna offered a nod of thanks and patted the blonde's hand as she sat down. "Did you say it was a Jihark demon?"

Evelyn nodded. "I remember how scared I was of the description in my Mom's book when I was a little girl. That symbol is burned into my head from dozens of nightmares."

Edna frowned. "Your coven isn't the only one in serious danger, then. Jihark are almost impossible to banish or vanquish. This one will be back, and whoever summoned it to this plane is either extremely foolish, or extremely powerful."

"The good news never stops," Celes interjected, and then let out an exasperated sigh.

"Danica called. She said that she'd try again later. She seemed a bit lost in thought."

Celes, Andrea, and Marlena all looked at each other, knowing that didn't bode well either. "I think I should cast a farspeak and see what's bothering Danica."

The others agreed.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica appeared in a puff of smoke and breathed a sigh of relief as the shadow of a mountain blocked out the burning desert sun. She could have used the Hellgate, but decided to take advantage of a lesser teleportation spell that she'd never really had much opportunity to experiment with. The spell was one that she could cast quickly, and she'd already thought of a few places that she could modify it to quick-cast it using the battle-mage methods she'd learned so long ago at the Forge.

She smiled, thinking that it could never hurt to have a quick way to pop around in the heat of a battle. She crinkled her nose a moment later at the brimstone stench of the lingering smoke, doubting that she would use it anywhere except a battlefield because of that.

The spell had managed to greatly shorten her journey across the remaining desert from the east-most temple of Sekmamun in line-of-sight jumps. Now she stood at the foot of the mountains that marked the disputed boundary between the people of the desert and their rivals.

One look up told her that her journey had barely begun. A few passes and trails were marked on her map, but Harkhuf had warned her that the map was old, and might not be reliable.

That's where teleporting and flying come in, she thought. Obstacles that might block a normal traveler wouldn't mean much to her, and she had complete confidence that she would be over the mountains in a day at the most.

Even though she'd left early, it was still nearly noon. That made her think twice about attempting the mountains today, and left her with a conundrum. She'd felt reasonably safe while alone in the desert only because she was almost constantly teleporting, and knew from experience that it was nearly impossible to track someone popping in and out of different dimensions with such a spell.

Now, she faced the prospect of needing to stop, and had no real landmarks that she could use as a pattern to return via a normal teleportation spell. Naturally, the Hellgate was a possibility. Even if she couldn't remember this spot, she could retrace her route and end up in the vicinity eventually.

Since she was stopped anyway, she decided to put the decision out of her mind temporarily to try calling home again.

Celes beat her to it.

'Danica, can you hear me?'

'I can hear you,' Danica responded silently. 'I was just about to try calling you again.'

'Are you okay? Edna said that you seemed worried.'

'I am, but I'm fine. It's a long story, but Pharaoh won't be the one to start a war here. I'm heading east to see if I can manage to convince the Emperor to reconsider as well.'

'Hold on. I'm going to try something.'

'Okay.'

Danica felt the farspeak magic fade away, and saw the reason for it a second later. Mists swirled, and Celes stepped out from them.

"There are a couple of long stories at home, too." Celes brought a hand to her forehead and let out a sharp breath. "Damn, but it's hot."

"We're in the shadow of the mountains, but we're still in the desert. It feels like winter compared to where I came from. Let me set up my tent so we can get out of the heat."

Celes nodded, and Danica retrieved the magical shelter from her bag of holding.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ebonar felt the black wave of demonic magic pushing against his wards in the cavern deep below the complex. All was finally in place, and the devil had taken the bait. A wave of his hand opened a portal, and a single step brought him to the room of scrying mirrors. One mirror, different from the others, was a new addition to the room. The glass was the color of blood, and framed in bone.

Through the mirror, Ebonar could see through the undead witch's eyes, not that there was anything to see — yet.

That changed moments later in a burst of hellfire.

The mirror compensated for the sudden brilliance, as did the dead eyes of the witch's corpse. With a commanding thought, Ebonar sprang the trap. The witch, her tortured soul trapped within corrupted flesh, drew the final rune upon the stone floor.

The wards strengthened tenfold, hiding the cavern from the sight of any form of magical divination save his own. At the same time, the containment circle sprang into being.

The hellspawn instantly understood its folly. All thoughts of retrieving the soul of the witch vanished. Bound by the magic of the circle, the devil raged, bringing its considerable power to bear — all for naught.

"My master will want to have a word with you," Ebonar said. He dismissed the image in the mirror with a laugh, confident that even the powers of the devil were insufficient to overcome the magic of Zoraster Arias.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The cavern was strangely silent.

Though the portal to the hells still yawned, the screeches and roars of demons emerging had ceased. Meckataur stood before the chasm, as still as a stone statue. Rexxus watched, having no intention of interrupting the powerful devil.

Meckataur had gone beyond the limits of his power. Between calling so many demons into the world and fighting against the gods to tear the portal wider, he had reached too far. Now, the devil asserted his dominance over all the hellspawn that he'd summoned, ensuring that their power belonged to only him.

Then the demon lord would use that newfound power to tear open the rift wider.

A less intelligent demon might have sought to strike the devil now to steal his power. Rexxus was not such a demon. Even though Meckataur's mind was occupied, he was surrounded by wards established by his pet wizard and cleric. Within that, his own wards protected against betrayal by his human servants.

Only annihilation awaited anyone foolish enough to approach the mighty Meckataur, let alone anyone bent on some form of treachery. 

Though ambitious and covetous of the devil's power, Rexxus had settled into the uneasy truth. None beyond the lords of the hells could match the devil now — and none who stalked this side of the rift.

Even so, a smile spread across Rexxus' face. The devil still had a weakness — his obsession with the destruction of Egoria, its nobles, and the fey folk. Some day, that obsession could prove his undoing. An intelligent demon could bide his time, and possibly exploit that weakness.

Rexxus was just such a demon.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"It's always everything at once, isn't it?" Celes murmured as Danica finished relaying the news of her visit to the desert. The pair sat on the bed within the magical tent, shielded from the heat outside, sipping fruit juice.

"Maybe I should just come back and see if I can help protect the covens."

Celes shook her head and shifted a little on the bed. "I don't like the idea of you going alone, though."

Danica smiled and said, "I was actually thinking that Marlena could mask us in illusion to make us look like locals, if that would make you feel any better?"

"It would. You're really just trying to find out if there's anything you can do here, same as we are with the Jihark." Though the air in the tent was magically cooled against the heat of the desert, it wasn't that, but a memory that caused Celes to break out into goose bumps.

Danica immediately recognized the reaction. "Are you okay?"

"There's something else." After a deep breath, Celes continued, "The girls had been sneaking out, one at a time, and managing to hide it from Edna. We tracked down Danielle to a cave in the mists around the valley."

The memory of what had happened flashed through Celes' mind in a rush, and Danica gasped at the same time. Celes could feel the touch of her friend's thoughts.

"Did you see it?"

Danica nodded, her face a little pale. "Sorry. It was just so strong that I couldn't block it out in time."

She hardly sounded convincing when Celes asked, "It can't be Zoraster, can it?"

"It was too quick — too indistinct." Danica shook her head. "Zoraster would be too arrogant to hide in the shadows. We'd know if he was alive."

"Are you sure?"

Danica shrugged her shoulders. "He was also insane, so who knows. The dispell should have kept any magic from reviving him. He isn't the only powerful wizard in the world."

"I'm not so sure. Just be extra careful. Whoever it was, he's dangerous."

"You too," Danica agreed. "Not much else we can do. So what do you think? Marlena and I see if there's any way to get to the Emperor, and the rest of you see if you can find a way to protect the covens?"

"As good a plan as any. Since I know I can find you with the mists now, I can bring Marlena back here without a problem. You could always stay at the manor when you need to rest, and I'll carry you back and forth."

"Or I could use the Hellgate." Upon seeing the look in Celes' eyes, she added, "But only if you're needed elsewhere."

"So that's the plan, then?"

"I'll come back with you. I want to talk to Marlena about something. Between the two of us, we might just be able to eliminate the need of popping back and forth. It might take a while, but I don't think the war is going to break out here overnight. There was an uneasy peace here up until all this happened. The Emperor will need time to get his armies ready to march."

"And at least he'll have to march them all the way into the desert, now. He won't be meeting the Pharaoh's army halfway."

Danica nodded her head in decision. "I think I'll want to talk to my sister and Darkni. We could work on those ideas for the covens to talk to each other and help each other along the way, too."

Celes stood up and started toward the door of the tent. "Let's get going then."

Danica followed her friend outside and turned back toward the tent. Nostalgia flooded through her about the first time she'd used the magical shelter — and the company she'd kept. Memory of the more recent time she'd spent with Nicholas at Boldheart Castle made her shiver.

"You okay?"

Danica laughed as her face warmed. "I'm fine." She then spoke the command word that caused the tent to shrink down into its portable form, and picked up the magic item. "Let's go home."

With a graceful, spiraling gesture of her hand over her head, Celes summoned up the mists, and the pair vanished.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ebonar pounded his fist on the table.

"You didn't really think my little rose would make it so easy, did you?"

Even though he was expecting his master's arrival, the voice startled him a little. His wards were meant to alert him to everything happening within the complex.

Zoraster had walked right in behind him without triggering a single magical alarm.

"Danica is not our primary concern, despite her meddling. She merely delays the inevitable."

"Is delay not our enemy?"

Despite his words, there was a subtle undercurrent of anger in Zoraster's voice. "Not yet. Danica and the fools of Egoria have taken the obvious bait, allowing the true heart of my design to grow to fruition beneath the illusion." Zoraster gestured for his clone servant to rise, and continued. "In time, we will need the nations to clash in war, and the havoc wrought by Meckataur's hordes. For now, they serve as a distraction."

The Archmage gestured, opening a magical portal to the prison of the devil. "To my true ends, let us visit our demonic guest in the catacombs below."

Despite a hint of misgiving about Zoraster's dismissal of Danica's interference, the note of excitement in his Master's voice brought a smile to Ebonar's lips.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica leaned forward with her elbows on the stone window sill, looking out the window of the study. The last sliver of the sun sank below the mountains that appeared to float on an ocean of mist.

"They're ready," Ashley declared.

Danica turned from watching the last rosy glimmers of the sky to see the redheaded witch hand Evelyn a small bag that clinked with the sound of the vials within.

"The red ones are the most powerful vanquishing potions I know how to brew. The silver will bring you here, if the Jihark returns," Ashley explained.

"I don't know how to thank you," Evelyn said as she cradled the pouch of potions in her hand.

Danica crossed the room to join her friends and said, "No need. We're happy to help, and hopefully we'll be able to help you more, soon."

Celes held out a hand and said, "Now let's ease your mind and get those to your coven."

The short-haired witch nodded, and accepted Celes' hand. A moment later, the two vanished in a swirling of mists.

Danica looked at Marlena and smiled. The illusionist scribbled notes on a sheet of paper, and then immediately returned to the book she was currently researching. Danica's idea to shield them from prying eyes had instantly awakened Marlena's passion for her magic. She would already have a fine foundation to build from by the time they arrived at Darkni's island the next day to discuss it with him and Devan.

Andrea had already sought her bed, and Danica knew why. The blonde witch was missing her new man, and the emotion was so strong that it had easily passed through the mental barriers that Danica kept in place to prevent her empathic powers from driving her crazy.

Marlena would likely remain nose down in a book for hours on end, if left alone to do so. Danica knew the feeling well, and she'd taken steps to make sure that the illusionist went to bed at a reasonable hour. Celes would take care of nagging Marlena until she put aside her books and papers.

With everything under control, Danica sought her own bed. There were many long days ahead for her — for all of them. Sleep would likely become a rare commodity as she and her friends worked on the means to aid the hard-pressed witches survive the demonic infestation of the world.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Ebonar nodded as two men moved forward to drag away the collapsed wizard. Another worker of the Art took the place of the exhausted man in the circle, immediately lending his power to a great magic taking place far away.

Reassured that those whom he had chosen were performing their task without question, he turned and left the room.

For nearly two weeks, handpicked wizards of sufficient power — and expendability — had served as human wellsprings to feed the magic of Zoraster Arias, though they knew not the fruits of their labors. Some would certainly recover unharmed, and find great rewards for their services. Most would find their reward cold comfort in light of the permanent crippling of their magical abilities.

Two would not care at all, as they had breathed their last within the circle.

The task at hand went beyond even Zoraster's inestimable powers, requiring the circle of joining. Subverting what passed for the mind of a powerful denizen of the lower planes — even a weakened one — and leaving the devil none the wiser was a goal many would call madness.

Zoraster Arias had ignored such thinking to his benefit for many years.

Most of those whom Ebonar passed as he walked the halls of the complex were young, fresh students. Those who had already proven their worth were now scattered the world over, each weaving a single strand in Zoraster's great tapestry.

One of great power yet remained within the twisting passages, however. It was to his chambers that Ebonar now traveled, the heels of his boots sounding quite out of place in the domain of wizards inclined toward soft leather shoes.

Ebonar's thoughts were dark. Though he shared the memories and magic of his Master, his mind was his own. He remembered the object of Zoraster's obsession — but to him, it was only a memory.

To Zoraster, it was the very seed from which he was born.

It was the furtherance of that obsession that he sought out the door ahead. Ebonar knew the mind of his Master well enough to understand that Zoraster would not be swayed from this course. Despite misgivings, he obeyed Zoraster's command.

In a courtesy he would extend to few others that walked the world — let alone within the complex — Ebonar knocked upon the door when he reached his destination.

"Enter, Ebonar," Thanatos called from within.

The spawn of Meckataur maintained no wards over his chambers, for he needed none. Ebonar opened the door and stepped inside to find Thanatos mouthing the words of yet another new spell. The fires of magic burned nearly as deep in the demon as the fires of hell, allowing Thanatos to absorb new magic as a sponge draws up water.

Ebonar closed the door and revealed, "I have a task uniquely suited to your abilities, if you are interested?"

Thanatos closed the book before him with a smile that would have made most men's skin crawl. The demon had found great pleasure and reward in the tasks presented to him, and anticipated more of the same.

Ebonar did not disappoint him.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica awakened and stretched, feeling a little better for having caught some real sleep. She glanced over to the other side of the room and smiled, nostalgia washing over her.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 16



Devan's chambers at Darkniciad's school hardly resembled Danica's girlhood bedroom, but the sight of her sister sleeping just across the way — sprawled on the bed at an odd angle and tangled in the sheets — certainly did. She wore only a pair of panties, having apparently decided to forgo changing into a gown for the night. Her robe hung from a post on the footboard, where she'd carelessly tossed it while preparing for bed. One shoe lay near the robe, while the other was sitting upside down at the side of the bed.

Only one thing hadn't landed wherever Devan was standing when she removed it the night before — a necklace crafted of leather, beads, and feathers. That, she'd carefully lain out on top of the chest of drawers in the room. Though her sister had never said such, Danica knew that it was a gift from White Stag, the plainsman magician.

Devan groaned and swiped a lock of red hair out of her eyes, but almost immediately pulled a pillow over her head against the light streaming in the single small window. She mumbled something unintelligible, once again taking Danica on a trip back through the years.

Unfortunately, the here and now needed her attention.

With more than a little reluctance, Danica stretched again and tossed back the covers. She ached for a long soak in a bath, but there was still too much to do before she could enjoy that luxury. She sat up and tugged at the plunging neckline of her borrowed nightgown, covering her right breast, which had spilled out as she slept.

Devan once again mumbled, the cadence of her words emerging from beneath the pillow bespeaking magic. A sharp gesture of her hand completed the spell, and the light coming through the window instantly dimmed, clouded by Devan's magic.

"Good morning," Danica greeted her sister while swinging her legs out of the bed.

Devan made a disgusted, dismissive sound before responding, "Morning, yes. Good, no."

Danica crossed the room to the dressing table and picked up a brush to return her auburn locks to something resembling presentable. "You'll feel better after a couple of cups of coffee."

"Doubt it," Devan argued as she climbed out of bed and tugged at her panties, which had ridden up in the night. "Any luck yesterday? You were already asleep when I came to bed."

Danica smiled into the mirror. She'd turned her efforts toward creating a modified version of the misdirection spell that would follow her and Marlena when the pair journeyed into the lands of the Eastern warriors in search of a way to avert the brewing war there. The hope was that it would prevent scrying magic from locating them. "I finished the spell last night. It took too much out of me to try it out, though. How about you?"

"Think we're almost there. Marlena makes me feel like I'm back in school when it comes to illusion magic."

The spell that the two were working on would compliment Danica's in the journey to come. It was meant to create subtle, confusing illusions over a wide area. Between the two spells and warding magic, Danica felt that it would be safe to travel through the unknown lands without returning to the manor each night to rest. She took one last look at her hair, decided that she'd done about all she could do, and handed the brush to her approaching sister.

Devan accepted the brush and gestured toward the mirror in front of her with it before turning it to its intended purpose. "Darkni and Damian are making enough of those mirrors to tile Thakkor's great hall."

"There are a lot of covens," Danica said as she returned to the bed to fish fresh clothing from her bag of holding.

"Letting them talk to each other is the easy part. The rift magic is something else altogether."

"Just being able to stay in touch will help them a lot. The way it is now, the same demon could attack them one after the other, and the next witch wouldn't have any idea what was happening."

"Guess so," Devan responded as she tossed the brush back onto the dressing table. "Can't argue that they'll be a big help against the demons. We've got too much on our plate to handle alone."

Danica sighed and nodded as she sat down the clothing she'd picked out on the bed. She pulled the straps of the nightgown off her shoulders, and then tugged the garment past her breasts and the swell of her hips to pool at her feet.

Devan leaned in closer to the mirror and critically examined her features. "Think I may need to brew up another youth potion." She turned around as Danica pulled on her panties and said, "Looks like you've cooked up a few."

"Hmm?" Danica responded, her brow furrowing in confusion as she reached for her brassiere.

"You haven't? I just assumed, because all of you are looking so good." She shrugged and said, "Maybe it's just the good living in that valley of yours."

"I think you're imagining things." When she saw her sister put on the necklace and smile at it before letting it drop between her breasts, Danica added, "Or maybe you just have a brighter outlook on life."

Devan turned around and pointed an accusing finger. "Don't start, little sister." She snatched up her robe and gave it a snap, as though she was cracking a whip. Motes of silver-white light sparkled around the garment, evidence of some sort of an enchantment. She nodded toward Danica putting on her bra and said, "I really need to have Andrea make me a couple of those."

"Just go see Alicia. She has a seamstress that knows how to get your sizes and make them now."

"Come to think of it, Alicia has been looking a little perkier lately."

Danica laughed, and finished dressing for the day.

As soon as both sisters tied the belts of their robes, Devan said, "Coffee," and headed toward the door.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The elf maiden's song joined those of the birds greeting the morning, her gossamer gown of elven silk flowing in the breeze. She finished her song with a pirouette and a musical laugh, rejoicing in the beauty of nature and its magic manifest all around her.

She knelt next to a brook, cupping her hands in the cool water to bring it to her lips. After the first sip, she started, feeling a peculiar sensation that gave her chills.

Her senses alert, she scanned the forest around her, seeking signs of danger. Though the birds had quieted, nothing else seemed amiss. Quiet footfalls — too stealthy for any but an elf to have detected — alerted her to someone approaching, and she sought the magic within her, prepared to escape if necessary.

She gasped in surprise when the most beautiful man she'd ever beheld stepped out from behind a tree. He wore nothing but a smile, and she blushed as she admired his lean elven body. Having not yet known a man in such a way, the sight of him both frightened and excited her.

He spoke not a word as he approached, his eyes catching hers and entrancing her. The heat came upon her, and her heart began to race.

C'seka reached his prize and pressed his lips to hers, his eyes flashing red, the one crack in his disguise as the expression of the elf maiden's greatest desire.

Not that it mattered any longer.

With his Devil master distracted by asserting dominance over the hordes unleashed into the mortal plane, C'seka knew the moment was ripe to expand his own power. He reveled in his victory as claws pressed outward from elven fingers and he tasted the maiden's lips.

He had successfully enveloped the elf in his personal realm without the aid of his pawns, and left his prey none the wiser until it was too late. Trapped here, she was cut off from the natural magic that could have saved her, or at least have given her the means to slip into the sweet release of death beyond his grasp.

Now she was his, and he would sate his hunger.

His claws ripped through her gown, laying her body bare. Still, she panted in anticipation, her small, teardrop breasts heaving, and the scent of her arousal making him drool.

She was young, vital, and untouched. Despite losing contact with the wellspring of nature, she was powerful. The elf maiden screamed as he sundered her virginity and his fangs pierced her flesh.

All that she was now belonged to the demon — body and eternally tormented soul.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica felt uneasy as she shifted the position of the Hellgate portal away from Blackhawk Hall, seeking a random location near the elven woods to the northwest. Little did she know that the sensation arose from her personal realm passing so close to that of the demon, still caught up in the rapture of taking his newest slave.

She aborted her search for somewhere especially interesting, and stopped the portal's roaming to cast her new spell. As soon as the magic settled around her, she opened the portal and stepped out onto the bank of a river.

The test was the best that anyone could devise. Devan and Darkniciad would scry for her, already knowing that she would be somewhere within the Duchy of Cratel. That knowledge, the power of the two workers of Art, and Devan's connection of blood to whom she sought should give them the best chance possible of piercing her new magic.

Danica wandered along the river bank, glad to note that the sensation she'd experienced while in the Hellgate was fading. The beauty of the day and her surroundings soon chased away the lingering uneasiness.

A plant with long, broad leafs growing in the shadow of a great elm caught her eye, and Danica praised her luck. Dragon Tongue was somewhat rare, and had several uses in both magic and witchcraft.

Few had ever managed to successfully cultivate the plant, but Danica decided to give it a try. As soon as she finished the trial of the misdirection spell, she planned to come back and attempt to transplant the three plants in Andrea's garden at home. Everything seemed to thrive in the valley, so she had high hopes.

The vegetation was lush, and the animals plentiful as she walked the thin strip of knee high grass between the river and the woods. Hardly surprising, considering the proximity of an elven community. It was a chance to relax after so many days of constant work and little sleep, yet she was still accomplishing something in testing her spell.

When she guessed that about half an hour had passed, she turned around to retrace her steps. If her spell could hide her from Darkni and Devan for an hour, it would certainly shield her and Marlena from prying eyes.

The walk back was just as peaceful, and she dismissed the spell upon reaching the Dragon Tongue again.

Within a few seconds, a transparent image of her sister appeared in front of her. "Well, unless you didn't drop the spell yet, it looks like it worked."

"I just let it lapse," Danica answered. "I'm going to dig up some Dragon Tongue that I found and drop it off with Andrea to transplant at home, but I'll be back in a few minutes."

Devan scoffed and said, "Good luck with that. I tried it once, and the damn thing was dead before I woke up the next morning. Hurry back so we can put Marlena's spell through its paces. She finished it while we were having coffee."

The image faded, and Danica turned her attention to the Dragon Tongue. Her brief respite over, it was time to put her nose back to the magical grindstone.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Andrea patted the earth around the last of the three plants that Danica had brought home, and then whispered a prayer to the Earth Mother for them to survive and thrive after the upheaval.

Her respite with the Dragon Tongue was a brief one as well. She walked back inside from the garden enclosed at the center of the manor, to return to what Celes flippantly referred to as witch school.

The concentration of the current lessons was potion making, which Andrea was quickly discovering was as much a part of being a witch as her inborn powers. Only a few witches were born with abilities, the rest relied upon spells and potions to call upon the magic of the craft. Her love of plants and gardening served her well, as did Celes' knowledge of flora and fauna necessary to practice the Art. The hard part was learning what combinations and concentrations of herbs — and less appetizing ingredients — were good, and which would result in opening all the doors and windows to air out the clouds of smoke, while picking up overturned furniture.

When Andrea walked into the study to the corner given over to Ashley, she saw Celes complete a wizard spell, once again doubling the number of papers in front of her. The stack of papers had grown ten fold in just the short time that the blonde witch was replanting the Dragon Tongue.

"Whew. That should be enough to spread them about," Celes declared as she sat back in her chair.

Ashley stood up. "Thank you, Celes. We'll just have to hope that those we give the recipe to can find all the ingredients, and that they in turn will pass on the secret to those that they know. I should probably check the message bowl for potion vials."

"Aye, we don't want to lose any more to falling out because it's over full," Celes agreed.

Andrea marveled at how much they had accomplished in the last couple of days. Upon learning that the rift magic to connect the covens was slow, difficult work, Ashley had come up with an idea to help in the meantime.

First was distributing the recipe to create her teleportation potions to any witch they could find. Those witches could in turn brew the potions and take the vials to other witches they knew, trading for potions made by the recipient. In that way, they could go to each other's aid once the nearly finished mirrors allowed them to talk to each other easily.

Second was the task at hand. Celes had sent a message to Heather and her glass-blower husband, requesting potion vials larger than the norm. Those could contain enough potion to transport a dozen or more gathered witches here to the valley, if the need arose. The plan was to distribute those potions with the recipe, providing an immediate means of escape to a safe place, should the need arise. The potions could also be split into smaller bottles, further spreading the coverage, if reducing the number it could translocate at once.

Celes stretched and said, "Break's over. I'll get to filling vials. You start on the next batch of the potion."

Andrea nodded and washed her hands in a basin while Celes picked up the pot containing the last batch of the translocation potion. Ashley returned a minute later with a small bag containing the newly arrived vials, and sat them down next to where Celes was working.

"Just lay everything out and I'll mix," Ashley suggested as she walked over to Andrea and picked up a pitcher of water to begin the potion making. "You know, something Danica said about her sister's beau got me thinking. Maybe we should talk to the shaman of the plainsmen. Their powers come from the same place as ours, but what rumors I've heard say that they can do things that I've never heard of any witch doing."

"Hmm, there may be something to that," Celes muttered as she corked the first of the vials. "It may be that they use things that have fallen out of practice in the craft, and vice versa."

"Cerebus and Christi know the plainsmen pretty well," Andrea offered. "The Duke and Brandon should be back from visiting with the various chiefs by now."

"Itching for a visit, are ye?" Celes asked with a knowing smile.

The blonde witch blushed. "Well, yes. But I could ask for them to introduce us to some of the shaman."

"We could probably use a break," Ashley said as she put in the first of the potion ingredients, resulting in a puff of smoke from the pot. "The last thing we want to do is make a mistake with a potion because we're getting into too much of a routine."

The anticipation in Andrea's voice was hardly lost on her friends. "You should come with me to the Hall. You've barely been out except to fight demons. You too, Celes."

"Maybe," Celes responded. She then noticed Anastasia, the older of the two clones of Andrea standing in the doorway to the study, nervously shifting from foot to foot. "Drew the short straw, did you, Dearie? Well, what is it?"

The blonde clone twisted a lock of hair between her fingers and asked, "Uhm... We were wondering if we might be able to go back to the cave."

"Not just yet," Celes answered. "We've been busy and haven't had time to make sure that it's safe."

Anastasia looked crestfallen. "Okay."

Celes pursed her lips in thought. "I've been itching to have a look around in there, truth to tell." She turned to her sister witches and asked, "Why don't the two of you pay a visit to the Hall, and I'll poke around the girls' little playground to clear the cobwebs out of my brain?"

"Are you sure it's safe to go alone?" Ashley asked.

"Bah, I can take care of myself. I won't let those things surprise me again." She turned to Anastasia, who still stood in the doorway, and winked. "And I'll stay away from the red ones."

"At least talk to Edna first." Ashley shrugged and said, "I am feeling a bit of cabin fever."

Celes gestured to the blonde clone and said, "Go tell the rest of the girls that I'm going to look around and think about it. No promises, though."

When her clone offered an enthusiastic nod and skipped back off toward the other side of the manor, Andrea said, "Let's finish this batch so we can go."

Celes chuckled and returned to her work, a smile on her face as she remembered the thrill of young love.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica peeked into the room, though she knew that her friend was surely decent since the door was open. She saw Marlena brushing out her hair in preparation to go spend some time with Brandon before leaving on the journey to the East. Since they'd both completed their spells, and the other work continued apace, Danica had decided that it was time to try to put a stop to the brewing war there.

Marlena put down her brush and turned away from the mirror when she saw Danica walk into the room wearing a coy smile, with her hands behind her back.

"I have a little present for you, before you go," Danica revealed, and then pulled her hands from behind her back to present the wands that she'd crafted to provide Marlena with a little more firepower, when the need called for it.

The illusionist gasped. "Oh, Danica. They're beautiful," she said as her friend approached to hand her the wands.

Danica reached into her pocket while Marlena examined the intricate whorls and swirls carved into the body of the wands and their sparkling gem tips. She sat down the list of enchantments and command words on the dressing table and said, "They can pack a wallop, too."

Marlena glanced at the list, and her eyes widened. She looked back up at Danica and said, "So many enchantments. All this work. I..."

"Shush," Danica cut her off while waving her hand in a dismissive gesture. "I'm not done yet. Or, rather we're not done yet."

Damian stepped into the doorway on cue, bearing two boxes and wearing a proud smile. Danica took the smaller of the two rosewood boxes and presented it to her friend.

It looked to Danica as if reluctance to put down her first present and wonder about what could be in the box were at war in Marlena's eyes, but the illusionist sat down the wands on the dressing table next to the notes, and accepted the box.

"Go on. Open it," Danica encouraged her friend, eager to see what Damian had crafted, as he'd kept it a surprise from her as well.

Marlena opened the box and let out a little, "Oh," of surprise. Danica had to agree with that sentiment as she beheld the marvelously etched silver bracelets.

"Try them on," Damian suggested.

Marlena sat the box down and removed the bracelets to snap them in place on her wrists. She moved her hands a little and said, "I can barely tell that I'm wearing them."




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 16



"That is but a little cosmetic enchantment. Wouldn't want them getting in the way of your spell casting. Now, take one of Danica's marvelous wands, and push it against the clasp of the bracelet, holding the wand near the tip."

The illusionist followed Damian's instructions, and marveled as the wand vanished. When only the jewel between her fingers remained, the wand vanished from sight.

"The enchantment is somewhat similar to that of a bag of holding," the master craftsman explained. "Now, think of the wand, and give a snap of your wrist."

When Marlena did so, the wand appeared once again, and hovered near her palm until she grasped it. "They're marvelous," she remarked. "Thank you so much."

"Your smile is all the thanks I need. The bracelets will each hold up to three different wands, which you can call upon with a thought." He then opened the second rosewood box, revealing four more wands. "I'm quite happy to offer these from my collection."

"If anything does manage to get through your illusions, it's going to wish it hadn't," Danica said as Marlena accepted the final gift.

Marlena gave a little shake of her head and a shrug. "I... I'm overwhelmed."

"Pish posh," Damian countered, and then dipped into a bow. "Use them well. Now, if you will forgive me, my wife has informed me rather pointedly that I have been spending too much time in my craft. Good journey to the both of you."

"Thank you," both women said in unison as he took his leave.

Marlena turned to Danica and began, "I..."

"Pish posh," Danica echoed her old mentor in the art of crafting magical items. "Finish getting ready. We all need a rest. If I know Brandon, he's wearing a track in the floor of the Hall waiting for you."

"What about you?"

"I'm going to go home, take a nice long bath, and go to bed early." She then twitched her eyebrows and said, "You should try to get some rest too — afterwards."

Marlena laughed, and color filled her cheeks as she turned to finish getting ready.

Danica felt absolutely effervescent from the growing joy and confidence that she saw in her once somber friend.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Andrea and Ashley appeared atop the teleportation pattern in Blackhawk Hall, and barely had time to cross the boundaries of the circle before Brandon appeared in the doorway of the room.

"Don't look so happy to see us," Andrea teased when she saw his shoulders slump.

He rubbed the back of his neck and chuckled. "Heh... Sorry. I was just expecting Marlena."

"Is she coming, then? She and Danica have been at Darkni's school, so we've barely seen each other for the last couple of weeks."

"Yeah, she sent a message a bit ago." He gestured toward the door and said, "You'll probably want to find Kronk. That fella from town's been asking about you about every day."

Andrea beamed as only a woman who knows that the man she's set her eye on is inexorably caught in her web.

The Duchess elbowed Brandon as she walked past him into the room. "A watched pot never boils, you know."

"That's not true. I've done it when I was drunk once," he countered.

Christi rolled her eyes and sighed, prompting a laugh from Brandon as he gave a salute to the two visitors and went on his way.

"Ashley, isn't it?" The Duchess asked.

The redheaded witch nodded.

Andrea said, "We needed a break, and I said she should come with me, since she's never seen the city."

"I imagine that you already have plans," Christi said to Andrea, and then winked. "If you want to see the city, Cerebus and I were about to head out to one of the best parts of it. Join us for dinner at the Wayfarer's Rest, Ashley?"

The Duchess made no attempt to hide her admiration of Ashley, which caused the witch to blush. Andrea knew how persuasive the Duchess could be, and strongly suspected that dinner would be only the beginning of her sister witch getting to know the Ducal couple.

"I've actually heard of it," Ashley said as she got over the initial flash of embarrassment from Christi's sultry appraisal of her. "If it's as good as its reputation, I'd be glad to."

"Nothing anybody says can do the Rest justice, and we've always got the best table in the house." Christi then directed her gaze to Andrea and offered a crooked smile. "Someone just showed up at the gates of the Hall. If you hurry, you can probably surprise him."

Andrea waved and said, "Bye," as she hurried from the room.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica had barely appeared within the familiar confines of her room before she started toward her dresser for some clean clothes. The bath was calling to her.

She heard a knock on the door and called out, "Come in," without pausing in her task. Celes walked in as Danica turned with a clean pair of panties and a light robe in hand.

"Thought I heard you," Celes said, "How are things going on the isle?"

"The mirrors are almost ready, and our new spells work perfectly. Marlena went to see Brandon, and I'm home for a long soak in the baths."

Celes turned around the chair in front of Danica's small worktable in the room and sat down. "Just put some fresh candles in the cabinet. Lavender. Andrea and Ashley went to the Hall, too."

"Why didn't you go with them?" Danica asked as she tossed her bag of holding onto the bed.

Celes shrugged. "Getting in the habit of avoiding people is hard to break."

Danica nodded, and decided not to press. Celes had endured the enslavement of Zoraster for even longer than Danica, and had his curse of an aged body to bear as well. "How are things going here?"

"We've got a hundred of her potions ready to go. The study reeks of cloves. I was just about to head out to that cave the girls were sneaking off to and have a look around."

Danica sat down on the bed and asked, "Is that a good idea, after what happened last time?"

"I had a chat with the girls, and they gave me an idea of what the various crystals show. The red ones are the only ones that might be trouble. I'm going to cast Ironmind before I go in there, though. Your girls never got caught up in the red crystals, so I'm thinking that their psionic powers probably protected them. I felt a touch something like your powers when I looked into them."

Danica considered it for a moment. "Why don't I just go with you — at least this first time?"

"I won't mind the company. You might be able to sense something I don't," Celes said as she stood up.

Intrigued by what she'd heard about the cave and the crystals, Danica didn't really mind putting her bath off for a little while. She picked up her bag of holding, and the two chatted while they made the trek out of the manor and across the valley. In unspoken agreement, neither discussed all the hard work over the last several days, but instead, the moments between.

Danica couldn't hold back a laugh when Celes cleared the first opening into the mists with a girlish pirouette. The witch's sense of direction was perfect, and she emerged directly in front of the cave mouth.

The interior of the cave shone with dozens of spots of twinkling, multicolored light. No one crystal illuminated more than a handspan of the darkness, but the combined effect provided just enough light to see within the cavern.

"How did the girls even find this place?" Danica wondered aloud as she drank in the sight.

"Good question. None of them are talking, and Edna hasn't even picked up the answer with her powers." Celes moved her hands into the initial position of the gestures required for the Ironmind spell, but then let them drop. "Since you're with me, let's just avoid the red ones and skip the spell. It might block out something that could be important."

"Okay. If you're right, my powers should protect me, and I can pull you out if I get worried."

"I want to start with one of the amber ones. The girls just say that they show things. They weren't specific, and sounded as though they considered the amber boring, but I'd like to see for myself."

"As good a place as any to start," Danica agreed, and followed her friend inside.

"Don't look directly at any of the crystals. That seems to be what sets them off." After a few seconds of scanning the inside of the cave, she said, "There we are," and started toward a small circle of amber light.

Following Celes' advice, Danica only looked at the crystals in her peripheral vision. As her eyes scanned over those within sight while walking, she could feel just the briefest tickle in the back of her head.

Celes walked up to the yellow-gold aura of light and asked, "Ready?"

"Go ahead."

A few seconds later, Celes hummed a quiet, "Hmm."

"What do you see?"

"It's just a farm. I can see why the girls sounded a little bored. Why don't you see if you can see it, or if you see something different?"

Danica moved in beside her friend, trusting the witch's judgment, and let her eyes focus on the crystal. The light seemed to expand, and she could suddenly see a middle-aged man and two boys herding hogs toward a rough-hewn log structure.

"A man and two boys herding pigs?" Danica asked.

"That's what I see. Do you feel like you're sort of hovering somewhere near them? I can almost smell the pig pen. Not that I want to, mind you."

Danica giggled. "Yeah. It's odd. I can sense you beside me, but it's different. It feels like we're both there instead of here."

"I'm going to look away and see what happens."

"Okay," Danica acknowledged, and almost immediately exclaimed, "Oh," when the scene shifted.

"You okay?" Celes asked, her voice sounding somewhat distant.

"I'm okay," Danica answered. "It just surprised me when what I was seeing changed so suddenly. It's not much different, really. It's a woman who looks like she's on her last nerve, trying to cook and keep two girls from fighting at the same time."

She could feel Celes joining her in the vision. "I can see it now," the witch declared.

"So, we can see different things, or see what the other is seeing. That's interesting. I'm going to look away."

"Me too."

The light receded back into a small circle around the crystal, and Celes revealed, "Just as I looked away, I caught a glimpse of somewhere else. All I really noticed was a tree." She then pointed off to the side and said, "Let's try a green one. The girls say that those always show somewhere with lots of trees."

Once again, Celes took the lead, with Danica joining the scene after a few seconds. When the emerald light expanded, Danica saw a dryad standing near a circle of mushrooms. The graceful creature of nature had an uncharacteristically concerned look on her face, and appeared to be conversing with two fairies that flittered about nervously within the circle. Danica's magical earrings, which had never failed her before, couldn't translate the language to offer any insight into what the three were speaking of.

"Gods, that's boring straight into my head," Celes muttered.

Danica understood the sentiment, as the language of the forest creatures was painfully high-pitched, and so rapid paced that it was nearly white noise.

"Enough of that," Celes declared, and Danica felt her leave the odd connection with the scene.

Danica pulled away as well and a thought occurred to her. "Maybe the girls are feeling a bit of cabin fever. That could be what drew them here. We could take them to Blackhawk. They wouldn't stand out too much there, if we kept an eye on them."

Celes chuckled. "May be, but I think it's something else that kept them sneaking in here." She pointed to a pink crystal near the entrance. "That's the one Danielle was so interested in."

Danica already knew what sort of things the pink crystals showed, but followed her friend to the blushing spot of light.

"Oh my," Celes moaned as she focused her eyes.

Danica moaned as well when she fell into the scene. Several dusky-skinned women of the desert kingdom writhed upon a pile of pillows and cushions, pleasuring each other with wild abandon. Cries of ecstasy and whimpers leading toward the same filled the room.

The Awakening surged within Danica with such rapid power that she couldn't resist it. She felt Celes' hand caressing her thigh long before the magic could have affected the witch, though.

"You kept me company, so why don't I return the favor for you in the bath," Celes whispered, her voice full of husky desire.

Danica's answer was to pull back from the window to another place and seek her friend's lips.

The mists swirled up to carry them to the bath in the manor mere moments after the first needy kiss.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Andrea led her beau to the stairs in Blackhawk, her nipples stiff against her blouse. Turner seemed more than a little nervous, so she gave his hand a reassuring squeeze as they ascended the steps, and let him see just a little of the desire she felt in her eyes.

She'd already decided hours ago that the time was right, but her connection to her sister witches only increased her anticipation. Back home, Celes and Danica shared a passionate embrace. Upon reaching the upper floor, Ashley's pleasure was actually audible, singing out from the Ducal chambers down the hall. A moment later, Marlena's voice joined the sensual serenade from her own room.

Andrea continued toward her room as if she heard nothing, but she could see Turner's incredulous grin as he listened to the sounds of sex emerging from all along the hall.

She opened her door and tugged him inside, closing the portal behind them. "It can get a bit loud around here some evenings," she said with a coy grin.

"So I noticed."

A chill swept through Andrea's body from the sound of his voice. So not in keeping with one who made his living around the smoke of a forge, Turner's voice was smooth, deep, and sensual.

She'd purposely kept her reason for asking him to come to the Hall vague. The look in his eyes suggested that the subtle clues of her arousal had spoken far louder than any words she could have uttered. He moved closer, and Andrea's lips parted of their own volition.

She erased any doubt that he might have harbored as they kissed. The feeling of his hardness when her hand slipped between his legs likewise chased away the last of her inhibitions.

Andrea moaned into the kiss and squeezed his manhood. His hand snaked beneath her blouse to the bare skin of her back. The kiss quickly transformed from one of the soft pecks that they'd shared so far into something far more ardent. Her tongue slipped over his as her passion took control, and her fingers twined into his hair.

She whimpered when his hands both moved to bunch up her blouse. The fit was far too tight to pull over her head, so she reluctantly released his cock and pulled away from the kiss.

Despite the heat of the moment, her cheeks still warmed as she opened the buttons of her blouse, starting from the bottom. His eyes followed the movement of her fingers, his breathing deep and slow. The parted cloth revealed her tummy, and then the swell of her breasts when she popped open the button straining to hold them contained. He stepped forward as she finished with the button at her neck.

His hands moved into the part of the cloth, gliding along her sides and fully exposing her breasts. One hand remained at the small of her back, while the other moved to her shoulder. Then he leaned in and kissed the pink point of her right nipple.

Her head lolled backward from the feeling of his lips on her, and she moaned, "Oh, Turner."

"You're so beautiful," he whispered as he moved to her other nipple and kissed it as well.

His tongue swirled over the stiff points, and he kissed the firm globes, causing her to pant. She tugged the tail of his shirt free of his pants, and bunched the linen between her fingers. His lips caressed her once more, and then his hot breath kissed the moist point as he stood up straight.

Andrea reached out to trace the defined muscles of his torso even before he managed to remove his shirt. She drank in the sight of him, his body made hard by the daily swinging of his heavy smith's hammer. When he dropped his shirt to the floor, she smiled and took a step back, her legs bumping into the bed.

He followed, and kissed her again — even harder this time. Andrea pulled him close, her breasts pressing against his chest, which was decorated only by a sparse triangle of hair.

His lips moved to her neck, causing her to gasp. "I want you, Andrea. I can't stop thinking about you, and you haunt my dreams," he whispered into her ear before planting a kiss behind it.

Andrea gasped. The demands of her body and the sheer sexual energy swirling about them erased her daydreams of a soft, sweet first encounter. She needed him as badly as he needed her.

"Then take me," she responded in a rush of breath.

She whimpered in surprise when he unhooked the top button of her skirt and pulled down hard on the pleated cloth. His other hand joined the first, and the skirt slipped past her hips to pool at her ankles.

His fingers curled around her rounded bottom as she stepped out of both the skirt and her shoes at the same time. She sat down on the bed as soon as her ankles were free, his hands sliding up her hips and side. As she started to recline, he jerked down his pants.

Andrea's eyes widened as his cock caught in the cloth on the way down, causing it to spring free and bounce before her eyes. She couldn't resist curling her fingers around his naked manhood, and he rewarded her with a deep, quavering groan.

He was incredibly hard, and throbbed as she stroked her hand over his shaft. Though hardly the biggest she'd ever seen, her fingers barely touched around his girth. A drop of pre-cum welled up from the swollen head, making her mouth water.

Before she could indulge the urge to taste him, he leaned over her, a hungry kiss pushing her back down to the bed. His lips didn't leave hers as he pressed two fingers against the damp cloth of her panties, causing her to start, and then shiver.

"Oh yes," she sighed as he traced kisses down her cheek and neck, then took one of her nipples between his lips again. Her pulse quickened when he pulled down her panties and cool air washed over her hot, wet need.

His lips continued their journey down to her tummy, where his tongue swirled in her naval while he caught her gaze and smiled. Andrea giggled and twitched from the delightful tickle of his tongue. Another kiss landed lower, just above the patch of short, light blonde curls on her mound, and he sank to his knees next to the bed.

His strong hands pushed her knees up and out, revealing her moist pink folds. Andrea whimpered when his fingertips traced the lines of her labia while he leaned in, closed his eyes, and drank in the scent of her need.

"Please," she begged, the aching need almost unbearable with him so close.

A quiet moan escaped him in response to her plea, and his fingers curled around her thighs. The seconds seemed as hours to her while he lowered his lips into the valley between her legs.

With the first touch of his tongue, Andrea's back arched up from the mattress and a sharp yelp burst from her lips. She tried to lift her hips, desperate for more, but he held her in place, the tip of his tongue tickling her folds. She couldn't contain the stream of high-pitched, needy moans as he teased her.

"Oh yes, Turner. Yes!" she cried out when he at last relented, a broad stroke of his tongue pushing tight against her folds and ending at her bud.

"So sweet," he moaned while she trembled in his grasp.

She squealed when his tongue began a rapid, flickering dance over her.

"Oh yes. Like that. Like that. Oh yes," she encouraged him while squeezing her breasts and teasing her nipples.

He lapped and suckled her folds, ever seeking new pleasure points to make her moan. She never knew when his lips or tongue were going to dart to her clit, and she cried out with each unexpected shock of bliss that those touches sent through her. All the while, he stayed in control, never letting the involuntary lurches of her hips impede placing the next swipe of his tongue exactly where he wanted it.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 16



The tickle behind her mound grew stronger, the first tease of the orgasm he was driving her toward with enthusiastic diligence. Though the glimpses of him looking up into her eyes as he gave her such pleasure made her heart soar, she found it difficult to keep her eyes open as her climax drew ever closer. He found her clit more frequently as she soared toward the heights, his tongue pushing back the bud's protective hood to make her scream from the sudden, sharp sensation.

One of Andrea's hands slapped to the bed, scrunching up the sheets in her clawed fingers. Her toes curled as well, and her head lashed as she teetered on the cusp of sweet oblivion. Then, he was gone.

She forced her eyes open and begged, "Please don't stop," but then gasped when she saw him standing and taking his cock in hand. She barely had time to realize what he was doing — and no time to react — before the whole of his stiff manhood sank into her depths with a measured push.

Andrea's head lifted from the mattress. Her eyes pinched closed and her mouth dropped open. The scream caught in her throat escaped when he withdrew to the tip, and buried his thick cock inside her again. One of his hands gripped her right thigh tight, while the other flashed over her clit.

She could barely hear her own screams over the sound of her heartbeat pounding in her ears. He took her hard and fast, filling her so full and shooting electric pulses all through her body.

The room warmed as what little awareness she had beyond that of her impending orgasm struggled to control her powers. Sweat beaded up on every inch of her skin as her breasts bounced from the power of his thrusts. The pressure grew, taunting her as climax remained just out of reach. Just as the thought flashed through her mind that she would surely black out if she didn't come soon, the shockwave of beautiful agony ripped through her.

She was barely aware of her thrashing and screaming as she came. Every thrust of his cock drove her to a new peak of ecstasy. Over and over again, her muscles tightened, squeezing him even harder and increasing the hot friction of his hardness driving into her. The world vanished, and there was nothing more to her existence than the relentless orgasm that refused to let her go.

She had no idea how long she'd remained caught in the web of her climax when her eyes shot open and she sucked in a noisy gasp to fill her starving lungs with air. Turner stood in front of her, dripping with sweat, his cock still nestled in her depths. She panicked, glancing around the room with eyes that refused to focus, praying that she would find nothing that had caught fire from losing control of her powers.

"Wow," Turner groaned. He wiped sweat out of his eyes, and grinned at her.

Andrea shuddered from a throb of his cock inside her and nodded in agreement, because her voice refused to obey her.

He growled, his glistening muscles tightening as another contraction of her canal squeezed him. "You feel so good," he said from between clenched teeth.

It was only then that she realized that he was still rock hard, and hadn't reached his peak.

Though her body protested, she lifted one foot from the bed and moved it behind him, pulling against his back.

"Oh yeah," he groaned, and dug his fingers into her thighs.

"C-come for me. Come for m-m-me," she cried out as he rocked her body again.

Their bodies collided with loud slaps. Turner growled and panted from exertion, driving his cock into her at a relentless pace. Andrea's screams quavered both from the power of his thrusts and the sensitivity of her still lingering orgasm. His face tightened and the rhythm of his hips turned jerky, and she knew he was there.

The scream that burst from her when he jerked free kept her from telling him to come inside her, but the sight of his semen arching through the air to spatter on her breasts made her gasp in delighted surprise. He slapped his cock against her moist skin and damp curls with a loud, inarticulate cry, and spurted more of his cream on her belly.

"Oh yes. Oh yes," Andrea moaned as cum continued to pulse from the purple head, further decorating her body and pooling in her naval.

He fell forward onto his free hand, the other still holding his throbbing cock against her. His breathing was fast and loud, and the ample evidence of how hard he had come made Andrea moan yet again. She massaged his cream into her breasts and brought her fingers to her lips, shivering when the bittersweet treat awakened her taste buds.

He looked up into her eyes, his expression one of both wonder and bliss. She smiled at him and wrapped her arms around his neck, never wanting the moment to end.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"What have we here?" Ebonar said as he leaned in closer to the mirror to better see Andrea's cum-spattered body and her panting lover. "How interesting. How interesting indeed."

He chuckled, the sound holding everything of malice, and nothing of mirth. "You make it far too easy, little witch."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Hope you enjoyed the new chapter, and sorry it took so long to get out. My editor is back in action, so no worries about that any longer. I have one more complete, and I'll put it out some time within the next month. After that, we're entirely at the mercy of my muse again. I'm working on Ch. 18 at the moment.

Feedback is the fuel that gets my fingers twitching toward the keyboard, so feel free to leave some for encouragement. As a free author, that's the only payment I get for my stories, so won't you drop a few 'coins' in my hat? Be sure to vote, too.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 17



Author's Notes:

This story is erotic fantasy, set in a world of magic. I reserve the right to be listed as the author of this work wherever it is posted. If found anywhere except Literotica.com with this note attached, this story is posted without my permission. © Darkniciad 2011

The villains in this story are truly evil, and their actions prove it. Some scenes may be disturbing for some readers.

I make use of modern weights and measures quite often in my work, because those are the weights and measures of my fantasy world. I know many fantasy readers prefer more archaic terms, and I hope those readers can overlook my use of miles, feet, and other such measures.

Please note that the form of witchcraft in my world is not meant to be true Wicca. Nor is it supposed to follow "Charmed" exactly. No offence or confusion is intended.

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

He emerged from the long shadows of the trees, his black-robed form darker than the moonlit night.

He crossed the graves at a determined pace, thoughtless of the peace of those who rested beneath the earth. His eyes that glowed red with the fires of hell fixated upon a mausoleum ahead — his goal.

A few gestures and words in the spidery language of magic dissolved the wards protecting the crypt as he approached. The lock on the door snapped as if a twig from a single twist of Thanatos' wrist. The demon cast aside the lock, chipping a nearby tombstone, and pulled open the heavy iron-bound door.

Stale air tinged with the perfume of death rushed from inside, and light violated the dark resting place of the dead for the first time in many years. Twin stone sarcophagi nearly filled the small space, the fine lines and detailed carvings bespeaking great wealth.

Thanatos approached and swept aside the dry, brittle remnants of flowers that decorated the lid of one sarcophagus, revealing the inscription, and confirming what the demon already knew.

The runes of warding were no match for his magic, their angry red glow impotent to prevent the desecration to come. Nor was the weight of the great stone lid any impediment, though it had taken six men to set it in place. Thanatos grasped one of the handles at the base of the arched stone cover in a long-fingered hand and lifted. The lead seals broke free and the lip slipped from its groove, allowing the demon to push the lid over the edge, where it hit with a resounding crack upon the polished stone floor.

The stained wood of the coffin within looked as if it might have been placed there only days before, rather than years. Only a thin layer of dust marred the beauty of its surface, which the demon completely ignored as his nails elongated into claws, giving him purchase into the thin seam of the coffin lid.

The body of the woman had not endured the years so well. Dull, dry blonde hair formed a halo around the darkened, desiccated flesh clinging to her skull. A voluminous gown of now yellowed white could not hide the bony protrusions of the body it shrouded. A single deadly touch of the demon's claw caused the garment to dissolve, completing the work of decades in seconds, while leaving the body untouched.

Thanatos laid his hand upon the body's shriveled breasts, and once again called upon his hellish powers. Even as his touch could cause corruption and death, so too could it reverse the ravages of decay and give a semblance of life to the shell of a mortal's remains.

The woman's skin lightened and plumped, the flesh undulating as it regained elasticity. Features emerged in her face, replacing the horrifying visage of a leering skull. Eyelids grew to cover the empty eye cavities, sprouting long, luxurious lashes. The breasts beneath his hands swelled many times over, rising firm and proud.

The demon lifted his hand and admired his handiwork. The woman within the coffin little resembled the husk that had resided there only moments before. Instead, a blonde woman of stunning beauty and ample curves appeared to sleep within.

Thanatos reached into a pocket of his robes, seeking the tools of the Art. The mere semblance of life was not enough to complete the task given him. He would have to reach into the very realm of death and the echoes of the past with necromantic magic to finish his masterpiece.

Then, he would have his reward.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Andrea let out a little moan as her lips parted from Turner's. "Hope to see you soon."

"Kronk'll see ya out," The big half-orc standing nearby declared, and then gestured toward the stairs.

Turner said, "Really soon, I hope."

"Me too," Andrea responded, color rising in her cheeks.

She watched him walking with Kronk toward the stairs, and her heart soared when he turned around for one last look at her before descending.

Kronk paused as well and said, "Bath's all ready."

The door to the Ducal chambers opened just as the pair vanished into the stairwell, and Christi emerged wearing nothing but a light shift and a satisfied smile. Right behind her came Ashley, similarly dressed, sleepy-looking, and with her hair completely disheveled.

Andrea bit her lip to hold back a giggle when she noticed the streak of dried cum that decorated her sister witch's leg from the shift down to her knee.

"Have a good..." The Duchess paused and twitched her eyebrows before finishing, "Night?"

"Mmm hmm," Andrea answered. "Guess you did too."

Ashley laughed and rubbed her eyes. "Oh, I need a bath."

"Fun making the mess though, wasn't it?" the sultry Duchess teased. "Kronk will have the bath ready. He's good about that when things get loud at night around here."

Christi started toward the door to the bath, and the two witches fell into step with her. Just before they reached their destination, Marlena emerged with Brandon from her room, caught his hand before he could walk away, and kissed him.

The Duchess gestured toward the door, and led the two witches inside. Marlena and Brandon were still kissing the whole while. As soon as they were all within the room, Christi tugged on the sleeve of Andrea's robe and said, "I hope you can sew bridesmaid's dresses, because I think you'll be needing them before long."

"I think so too," Andrea agreed as she untied the belt of her robe.

Marlena finally walked in as the other three women settled into the bath. She looked absolutely radiant and greeted everyone with a cheerful, "Good morning," as she untied her robe and let it fall to the floor.

Everyone greeted her as she ascended the steps and then sat down with a relieved sigh in the warm water. "How's everything at home?" She asked after leaning back to wet her hair.

"Going well," Ashley answered while she washed. "Danica told us that you both finished your spells."

The illusionist nodded. "I'm excited about going and putting them to use, but I think that I could use another day to relax."

"Brandon probably wouldn't be worth a damn for a week, after another day of relaxing with you," Christi suggested with a sly smile.

"I'm not sure that I would be either," Marlena responded with laughter in her voice.

"You know that you're all welcome any time," The Duchess said. "Hate to be rude, but I've got to get washed up, dressed up, and go be Duchess. Cerebus was stuck with it yesterday, so it's my turn."

Ashley shrugged and sighed. "We probably shouldn't linger either. We still have a lot to do."

Andrea and Marlena made small sounds of grudging agreement and turned to the task of washing away the evidence of the previous night's bliss.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica was still tingling from a wonderful morning orgasm on Celes' fingers in the bath when she walked toward the kitchen at the witch's side. She grabbed her friend's bottom, offered a sexy growl, and then laughed when Celes twitched her eyebrows in response.

The pair put aside their playful antics upon entering the kitchen, as the last thing that the girls needed was any encouragement in that direction. Two of the copies of Danica — Danila and Denise — stood at the sinks washing dishes, and said hello upon noticing that they weren't alone.

Denise said, "Breakfast is over there on the stove," while scrubbing an iron skillet with a wire brush.

"Thank you, Denise," Danica responded, and then asked the other clone, "Still doing okay?"

Zoraster had manipulated the clone through both an aborted pregnancy and magic to lactate in abundance. Edna had fortunately discovered a spell in her book that helped to counter the magic. It had taken some time to convince the other girls that suckling their clone sister was making her uncomfortable by keeping the milk flowing, no matter how much she enjoyed it at the time. That part of the magic still lingered, making Danila experience powerful orgasms whenever anyone was drinking from her springs of mother's milk.

"Okay," Danila answered. "They only leak when I..." Her cheeks turned bright red, and she finished in a rush, "When I get really excited."

"Just remember how heavy they were and how much they ached. That should help avoid temptation," Danica suggested.

Still embarrassed, the auburn-haired clone nodded her head and returned to the dishwashing.

"Come along, now," Celes said. She already stood in the doorway, holding the two plates left for them. "I'm famished, and you still need to give me my copy of your new spell."

Her stomach rumbling, Danica walked over and took her plate.

A quiet mental chime and a flash of light from within the room alerted the pair that someone had teleported into the manor. Since the numerous wards and runic defenses hadn't activated, they were fairly confident about who had just popped in.

"Welcome home," Celes said upon seeing Andrea, Marlena, and Ashley reorienting their senses after the translocation. "Not sure if the girls saved any more of breakfast."

"I'll just have some fruit later," Andrea said, and pointed toward the center of the manor. "I want to go check on the Dragon Tongue."

"Pears sound good," Ashley agreed. "I'm going to go fetch some. You?" she asked Marlena.

The illusionist answered, "I'm actually craving celery for some reason."

Andrea called back from the hallway just outside the door. "I'll bring some back from the garden. Bring me some of the golden apples, Ashley?"

"Okay," Ashley answered as she followed the blonde out of the study.

Danica took her seat and asked, "Craving celery? You're not pregnant are you?"

Marlena laughed and answered, "Oh gods no! I cast my spell every time. I'm not ready for that."

"I was only teasing," Danica said as she pulled the cloth off her plate and picked up a fork.

"Well, I'm not teasing when I say I'm going to tweak your ears if you don't hand over my copy of your new spell," Celes warned while uncovering her breakfast.

"Okay. Okay." Danica laughed, put down her fork, and pulled the rolled page from a pocket of her robe.

Celes sat the page off to the side of her plate, weighed down the edges with a large chunk of white crystal and an empty inkpot, and then proceeded to read while she ate.

Once Danica put aside her plate a few minutes later, she asked Marlena, "So, are you ready for a long walk through a strange land?"

"I'm actually sort of excited. I haven't really traveled much, let alone to anywhere so different from what I know."

"I've done my fair share of seeing the world, even if it wasn't my own idea," Danica remarked.

"Ye can say that again, Dearie," Celes agreed.

Danica stood up and said, "I just need some time to put a few things together. Leave in a couple of hours?"

Celes tapped her copy of Danica's spell. "This is going to keep things like the farspeak spell from getting through to you, isn't it?"

"As it is right now — yes. I'll probably perfect a version of it that lets some things like that work eventually, but I just thought it was too much to try on a brand new spell."

"Hmm... I don't know about this."

Danica smiled and offered, "How about if we give a call home every night and every morning, just to say that we're fine, if nothing else? The spell won't block our magic from reaching out, but it should still keep anyone from following the spell back to us."

"Fair enough. We don't hear from you, and I'm going to come find you somehow."

"Fair enough," Danica echoed with a wink. "I'm going to go get ready. Meet me in my room when you're ready, Marlena?"

"I'll be there in a bit," the illusionist acknowledged as she stood up.

Ashley had finished her breakfast as well, and tapped a spoon on the edge of her potion brewing pot. "Back to work, girls."

Andrea and Celes groaned in perfect unison.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Pebbles cascaded down the rock face as Danica and Marlena appeared in a burst of brimstone smoke several turns higher on the switchback trail than where they had stood only moments before.

Marlena instinctively took a step away from the abyss, despite Danica's magic depositing them a safe distance away from the long drop. She then waved a hand in front of her and made a face. "Phew!"

Danica nodded, still holding her breath. Unfortunately, the stench still lingered when she relented. "Believe me, I know." She closed her eyes for a moment and then said, "My spell is still working."

The illusionist nodded her head. "Mine too. How much walking do you think we just saved?"

"Two hours, at least. I guess the trail meandering back and forth like it does makes sense if you're actually trying to climb the mountain, but walking so far out of my way isn't my idea of fun."

"I'll just be glad when we're on the other side," Marlena remarked after leaning forward a little to peek over the edge.

"The view will be better on the other side. That should make it a little more bearable. Besides, you have feather falling enchantments. It's not as if you're going to do more than drift down to the last bend in the trail."

Marlena laughed. "Doesn't help."

Danica's eyes followed the trail to find that it passed out of her sight and into what looked like a crevasse. A look upward revealed no more switchbacks. "Looks like we're walking for a while. I really don't want to risk flying unless we have to. The winds are too unpredictable."

Marlena nodded emphatically in approval of that decision, as she wasn't all that comfortable with the height even with her feet on solid ground. The prospect of sailing above that emptiness made her stomach clench. A sudden burst of hot wind sweeping up from the desert below to whip her hair and robes didn't help the feeling any.

"If that crack is deep enough, we might be across sooner than I thought. No way of knowing until we take a look, though." Danica nodded toward the bend in the trail and started walking.

As soon as the pair turned the corner, Marlena let out a sigh of relief. The trail followed a cleft between two sheer walls of rock stretching upward into a V shape. Though boulders that had tumbled down littered the floor of the valley, indicating a need for caution, the illusionist felt a great deal more at ease without any visual point of reference telling her how high up she was.

Most of the conversation during the climb had revolved around the goal and destination, but to help calm her friend's nerves, Danica changed the subject. "So, how's Brandon? Getting along okay at Blackhawk?"

Marlena smiled at the mention of his name. "He loves it there. He just fits in with everyone."

"I haven't been there that often, but I can guess why." Danica chuckled, and the intensity of the echo from the sound startled her a bit. She lowered her voice and said, "Maybe we should keep it quiet. I've heard of loud sounds setting off avalanches, and I'm not in the mood to test whether it works on rocks, too."

Marlena nodded. "I feel torn. There's so much going on, but all I want to do is spend time with him. I haven't felt this way..." Her cheeks reddened. "Well, in a long time."

Danica had a flash of something from Marlena's thoughts come to her unbidden, but it was indistinct. The only impression that she derived was of a man in robes before she snapped shut the connection, not wanting to pry.

She stroked Marlena's back for a moment. "There's time. We certainly need you, but we don't need you to be unhappy, either. Besides, making him pine for you every once in a while will keep him from taking you for granted."

"You're right, of course."

"I'd imagine that he's rather enthusiastic when you've been away for a while, too."

Marlena twitched her eyebrows. "So am I."

The crevasse curved to the left, making it obvious to Danica that they weren't going to emerge on the other side of the range. The switchbacks were simply moving to a different face of the mountain. She unconsciously slowed as an odd sensation swept over her.

"Wait," Danica abruptly whispered, and then grabbed the sleeve of her friend's robe. Marlena froze in her tracks.

Danica slipped into the second sight, and immediately saw what had caused her to feel uneasy. "Wards on the trail," she whispered.

"I see them," the illusionist agreed. "What do you think it means?"

"I don't know, but I'm not going to find out the hard way by setting them off. Keep your eyes open while I try something."

The discipline of spell weaving originated in the creation — and unraveling — of magical wards, and was uniquely suited to what Danica wanted to attempt. First, she examined the magic and determined that it had only one purpose, which was to detect living things of a certain size crossing its boundary.

With no threat present in the ward itself, Danica gathered up strands of the world's magical energy, spinning it into a thread of her own. This she carefully slipped into the weave of the ward, feeding it back to its source. Within seconds, she knew where the magic originated.

"There's something alien about this pattern," Danica observed while glancing in the direction where she could sense Marlena. She was too deep in the second sight to actually see her friend, but she could feel the illusionist at her side. "Make us invisible."

Marlena began her spell chant, and Danica went to work on the strands of magical energy that stretched from wall to wall of the crevasse. Breaking the ward would have been simple, but Danica knew from experience that the person who had created the magic would feel that. Instead, she carefully moved the threads of magic, manipulating them until she formed a door just large enough to pass through.

Once the gap in the magic was wide enough, Danica snatched up another errant strand of magic and outlined the doorway in a thin band of pinkish light.

Marlena said, "I see it. I used my most powerful cloaking spell."

Danica let her vision slip back into reality. She wasn't at all surprised that she could see Marlena. The illusionist had such a command of the magic that she could overcome the usual limitations where a person using invisibility magic couldn't even see themselves.

"We may as well check this out. The source of the magic is along the way." Danica drew a little circle in the air in front of the glowing pink outline. "Just don't touch the circle."

Marlena nodded and went through first, without incident. Danica followed, and then pinched a tail she'd left exposed on her pink doorway. A little tug started the slow unraveling, which would close the opening, leaving the ward as it was when she found it.

After only a few steps beyond the ward, Marlena slowed and held out an arm to block Danica's path. "Someone is using powerful illusion magic ahead. I can sense it."




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 17



"Do you think they could sense yours?"

"Probably. Should I dismiss my spell?"

Danica shook her head and continued the conversation with telepathy. 'No. Just because someone can sense it doesn't mean that they can penetrate it. Let's hide as best we can, though.'

'There's something strange about the magic I'm sensing too.'

'Inhuman?'

'Yes.'

After passing by an outcropping a little farther down the trail, Danica spied a ramshackle cottage butted up against the mountain. The trail continued upward in more switchbacks beyond the cottage. 'Why would anyone live up here?'

'They're probing my magic — whoever it is,' Marlena answered.

The door of the cottage opened with a creak, and an old man peeked out. He looked around, but gave no indication that he'd penetrated Marlena's spell.

Danica winced as a wall of emotion hit her. Somewhere beyond the cottage door, people reacted with both fear and longing to the beam of light intruding on the darkness.

A mental gasp accompanied Marlena's warning. 'It's an illusion. All of it.'

'There are prisoners — slaves — inside,' Danica added. 'I can't see through the illusion.'

'Me either. It's powerful. I think I have a spell that can break it, but we'll lose the cloaking magic.'

The old man wandered outside the door, closing it behind him as he continued to sweep his eyes over the trail.

'Let me get something ready first,' Danica cautioned, then began chanting a spell.

Marlena spoke her own words of magic, and Danica heard the illusionist pause before completing the spell. As she was ready to say the last word of her own spell, Danica sent a mental signal to her friend. 'Now.'

The old man instantly turned toward the two women when they appeared before him. Marlena's spell made a sound like the roaring of flame and sent a column of ripples speeding toward the old man and the cottage. When it hit him, the magic erupted with a loud, low frequency hum and rapidly expanded, destroying the illusions. Where once there was a cottage, a cave entrance loomed. The door proved to be a large stone.

Danica's spell of entrapment closed around a monster rather than a man. The creature hulked nine feet tall, with red skin, horns, and a horrible visage. It roared and flexed its muscles, easily tearing apart Danica's spell.

"Oni!" Marlena called out, then snapped her wrists. Her new magical bracelets produced two wands.

The monster let out a roar and charged toward Danica. Initiatively, she lashed out with her telekinetic power, but the Oni did little more than flinch, not even slowing.

Marlena aimed one of her wands and shouted a command word. A cone of wind slammed into the approaching creature, toppling it from its feet and sending it rolling backwards.

"Wind magic! They're creatures of earth," Marlena explained. Her wand discharged again, keeping the monster from rising and slamming it into the cold stone of the mountain.

Danica cast the first spell that came to mind, peppering the Oni with wind missiles. The monster roared in pain as the magical darts pierced its flesh.

Yet another blast of Marlena's wand pinned the Oni to the wall. "We have to break its contact with the earth. That will weaken it. Don't kill it."

Though she wondered why Marlena was concerned about killing the raging creature, she concentrated on the first instruction. Her hands flying through the gestures, Danica spoke the words of a spell. When she finished, the creature's feet lifted from the ground.

Marlena's voice rang out in another command word and she pulled back on the wand as if fishing and setting the hook. The Oni flew toward them to hover a few feet away, about twenty feet up. "Now bind it, or put it to sleep."

Trusting her friend, Danica cast a sleep spell, and the monster's head slumped down to its chin.

Marlena breathed a sigh of relief and lowered her wands. "The spell will work as long as it isn't in contact with the earth."

"What do we do with it now, though? Is it a demon?"

A shake of Marlena's head answered no. "They're related to ogres, but they're not evil."

"Uhm — it has people caged up in there, and it didn't stop to ask questions before it attacked us."

"Oni use their power of illusion and other magical abilities to capture and enslave evil beings." Marlena paused and shrugged, looking a little embarrassed. "They have been known to be corrupted by capturing something so evil that they couldn't deal with it, though."

"I can feel the fear from the people in there," Danica cautioned, "Fear of the Oni."

"They could still be evil."

"But if not..."

"I know."

Danica nodded and conjured up a ball of light that hovered over her head. "My spells will hold up long enough for us to find out who's in here."

Marlena let out a resigned sigh and led the way into the cave.

A short distance down the passage they found the den of the Oni. Once, it might have been a strangely human dwelling beneath the earth — save for the size of the furniture — but no more. Everything was scattered around the room in disarray, and the remains of the Oni's last meal remained in one corner — human bones.

Marlena covered her mouth and made a choking sound.

"Marlena, I think it's obvious that this one has been corrupted."

"I know but... I just..." The illusionist trembled, her voice carrying a profound note of sadness.

"I'll do it. Go help them." Danica gestured to a side passage, from where the weeping of the slaves echoed off the stone walls. "Take my bag. I've started keeping lots of spare clothes, food, and bandages in there."

"Airburst," Marlena said in a small voice. "The spell will destroy it instantly."

Though she didn't know why, Danica understood that something beyond the necessity to destroy a once good creature corrupted by evil was bothering Marlena. "I won't wake it up first."

Marlena nodded and walked into the side passage as Danica turned to do what had to be done.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"It's about time," Celes said as the transparent image of Danica appeared a few feet away in the center of the study.

"I know. Sorry," Danica apologized. "We were a little busy. Still are."

"Everything okay?" Ashley asked, turning from where she stood rinsing her potion pot in the small study sink.

"I'll let you know this evening." Seeing Celes' eyes narrow, Danica quickly added, "We just ran into something unexpected along the way, and Marlena's having a bit of a hard time with what we had to do. She'll be okay."

Celes nodded, accepting that Danica knew what she was doing. "We just finished with the last batch for today. We're going to start popping around dropping off the potions and recipes."

Andrea piped up, "We all need to get out of this room for a while, before we go crazy."

"Be home by evening?" Danica asked.

Celes answered, "We'll be here when you call, and you might actually be able to see the tables when you do."

"They'll be covered again by lunch tomorrow, though."

Andrea and Celes both groaned when Ashley said that.

Danica laughed. "Okay. I'm going to get back to Marlena. I'll fill you in more this evening."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica dismissed her spell and looked down one more time at the Oni horn lying on the ground. For some reason, it had remained when she'd cast the Airburst spell, though the rest of the creature had simply disintegrated. Thankfully, it had landed behind a rock, and Marlena had not yet seen it.

The pain in the illusionist's face had doubled, brought on by the pitiful state of the slaves within the cave. Seeing that Danica had completed her spell, she said, "They won't even come out of their cells. They're terrified."

"It is done."

Danica spun on the deep, growling voice emerging from behind her, the words of the Airburst spell on her lips the moment she recognized another Oni.

"Danica! Don't!" Marlena cried out as she grabbed Danica's hand, spoiling the gestures of the spell.

The creature gave a slight bow of its head, and Danica felt a chill run up her spine. She could see the creature's eyes, and immediately knew that this one was not like the other. Despite the Oni's brutish, demonic face, its eyes held intelligence and compassion.

"This one hasn't been corrupted."

The Oni moved to the horn lying on the ground and picked it up. "Long have we mourned the loss of our brother. You have given him peace."

Even more so than the Oni's eyes, its urbane manner of speaking clashed with the harsh voice to such an extent that Danica was completely unsettled. Marlena seemed not to notice, and stood with a sad smile on her face.

"We thank you," the Oni continued. "Fear not for those within. Our magic will erase both pain and memory, and return them to their homes."

Marlena approached the creature and spoke, the words full of hard consonants and her tone throaty. Whatever language she spoke, it was one that Danica's earrings were unable to translate.

The Oni's face split into a toothy grin. "We accept your condolences with a glad heart. How is it that you know of us, one of fire hair?"

Marlena answered, "The master who taught me the art of illusion was well acquainted with one of your brothers. He visited frequently, so I knew him from the time when I was a little girl. He was far from home, and grew lonely for conversation from time to time."

Offering a sagely nod, the Oni said, "It is difficult when one of us is called away from this land by the swelling of darkness." The monstrous-looking creature stiffened, its eyes growing distant for a moment. When the Oni's eyes focused again, it cupped the horn of its fallen brother in its hands and held it out to Marlena. "Take this. Even in one corrupted, there remains the light of our purpose. In this, our brother's light remains. Should darkness descend upon you, it will light your way."

A single tear rolled down Marlena's cheek as she accepted the horn. "When the need arises, your brother's light will once again serve the purpose, scattering the shadows of evil."

The Oni bowed its head, and then lumbered toward the entrance of the cave. 

Marlena met Danica's eye and nodded toward the path that continued on through the mountains. As she walked, she reverently placed the Oni horn in her bag of holding and said, "They're uncomfortable around people, and they can do far more for the prisoners than we ever could. They'll be home, safe, and happy tonight."

Danica remained silent until a bend in the path took them out of sight of the cave, as Marlena seemed to need some time to reflect. Part of her felt as if leaving the prisoners was wrong, but she trusted Marlena enough to accept that the Oni would keep its word.

Marlena broke the silence first. "Sorry about taking over that way."

"You understood what was going on — I didn't. It's a good thing that you took charge. Sorry about..." She made a few obscure gestures miming spellcasting. Ahead, she could see the trail continuing up the mountain.

Marlena smiled and took Danica's hand. "That is why the Oni remain hidden from most people. How could you not suspect them of being evil? I was more scared than you can imagine when he first came to visit my master. I think I was nine at the time."

Danica couldn't quite shake the memory of the hulking creatures. "I'd have screamed loud enough to wake the dead and wet myself if I'd seen one of them when I was nine."

"Oh, I screamed. I ran and crawled into the smallest place I could find to hide."

Coming out of the shaded rock valley, Danica flinched upon stepping into a wall of hot humidity. "So how did you get over it?"

"Kapallen could convince me of anything." Marlena laughed, her eyes a little distant.

"Your master?"

She nodded. "I'd have never learned magic if it weren't for him. I looked forward to him performing at the harvest festival almost as much as I looked forward to Yule. When I was seven, I perfectly duplicated one of his illusions, and he saw it."

They had started up the next switchback as they walked and talked, and Marlena barely seemed to notice. Considering the illusionist's fear of heights, Danica thought it would be a good idea to keep this conversation going as long as possible.

"So he invited you to his school?"

"Oh, there was no magic school close to where I lived. Kapallen went straight to my parents and asked them to let me apprentice with him. He was well liked and respected, so they jumped at the chance. They were both laborers, and knew that they could never give me an opportunity like that to do something different with my life."

Danica nudged Marlena with her elbow. "It's no wonder you're so good, considering you had one-on-one instruction from such a young age. I didn't even start until I was twelve."

"He was a wonderful teacher." Her smile turned a little sad, and her voice quavered a little when she added, "I miss him."

Wincing inwardly, Danica remembered that it was the death of her master that had set Marlena on the path of revenge against Zoraster, and eventually into the madman's clutches. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to bring up painful memories."

Marlena shrugged one shoulder. "I've never really talked about it with anyone since it happened. Maybe I should." "If you want to. You know I'm here for you."

Marlena looked up at the sky and let out a wistful sigh. "There was just something about him. He made me feel confident — talented." She glanced over at Danica and smiled. "I've been feeling that way again, recently."

Danica smiled back. "You do seem a lot more comfortable in your own skin."

A snap of her right wrist summoned up one of the beautiful — and powerful — wands Danica had made for her. She held it up and admitted, "These help," before quietly laughing and slipping the wand back into the magical bracelet.

"I think Brandon has something to do with that too," Danica suggested, twitching her eyebrows as she turned to climb the next ascending section of the trail.

The illusionist's cheeks reddened a bit, and she nodded in agreement. "He just makes me feel so pretty — sexy. I haven't felt that way very often. A lot of boys used me when I was younger. I was the only redhead for miles around, and blessed up top." She cupped her breast for a moment. "They looked at me as a trophy. Kapallen tried to protect me from all the wealthy boys trying to be the first to..."

"I understand," Danica offered when Marlena trailed off, knowing that the illusionist was speaking of her virginity.

"I still had my heart broken more than once, but at least I never went that far. After a while, word spread that I was frigid, and nobody tried."

From somewhere overhead, a hawk loosed its lonely, keening cry.

Danica didn't know what to say. The tale explained much about Marlena's lack of confidence in herself and her abilities.

"I'm glad I saved myself, though."

"So, your first time was special?"

Marlena took a deep breath and nodded. "Very." Her eyes welled up with tears.

Danica stopped and clasped her friend's hand. "It's okay. You don't have to."

Wiping her eyes and sniffling, Marlena said, "I think I need to. I've never told anyone." Her eyes darted toward the emptiness beyond the edge of the trail. "It's better than thinking about that."

"That's why I was keeping you talking," Danica admitted.

Still holding Danica's hand in hers, Marlena started walking up the trail again. "It just sort of happened. Nobody would have understood, and even though we never actually talked about it, we kept it a secret." A wide grin spread across her face. "He looked so dumbfounded and frightened the first time I kissed him."

A little shocked by where she suspected Marlena's story was leading, Danica instinctively interjected a little lightness, more for her own sake than Marlena's. "Don't they all?"

The illusionist laughed, nodding her head, and then continued. "It was just after my parents died. He'd spent days trying to make me feel at home and consoling me. We were sitting in front of the fire, and he had his arm around me. I just felt so warm, safe, and loved that I couldn't help myself. He tried to pretend that it was nothing, and to go on as we always had, but I knew that everything had changed."

There was no denying the wave of need that Danica felt coming from her friend. Marlena desperately wanted to say what Danica now knew for certain through her empathic powers, but she was afraid to. Dozens of snippets of memories traveled along the psychic pathways between them, and Danica knew that there was nothing improper in the relationship between them. He had resisted, fearing that she mistook respect for love, but Marlena had worn him down. When he finally surrendered to his own love for her, they were both deliriously happy.

"Kapallen was your first, wasn't he?"

Marlena nodded, looking relieved. "And only until..." She left his murder at the hands of one of Zoraster's minions unspoken. "I've kept that secret for so long, when all I wanted to do was sing from the highest rooftops about how much I loved him."

"It must have been hard."

"Only when we weren't alone. I never thought I'd love again when I lost him, until Brandon. They're so different on the outside, but Brandon's heart is so much like his."

Danica chuckled. "He puts on a good show of being boisterous, but he has the soul of a poet."

Squeezing Danica's hand, Marlena said, "Thanks for listening to me blubber, and for not judging me."

"You're welcome, and I would never judge you. Neither would Celes, or Andrea."

"Or Ashley or Edna," Marlena agreed. "Sometimes, even when you know something deep in your heart, it's still hard to believe."

Danica glanced at the trail snaking back and forth above. "You know, I think that highest trail looks like it's curling toward the other side of the mountain. Let's save some walking and see if we can't start walking downhill instead of up."

Marlena nodded, then took a deep breath and pinched her nose as Danica neared the end of the spell chant.

The pair vanished in a puff of brimstone smoke.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Celes stepped out of the mists, Andrea and Ashley immediately behind her. Evelyn awaited them on the front porch of the home she now shared with one of her sister witches.

"Not a bad day's work," Celes remarked, clapping her hands together as if dusting them off.

Spreading the potions out had proved even easier than anticipated. Using Evelyn's descriptions of other witches she knew, Celes had called up the mists and unerringly found herself near who she sought. Those witches in turn provided their own contacts. Fortunately, the prophecy of the Sisters of the Mists was quite widespread, and they rarely had to explain their arrival before instructing the witches in the use of the potions.

A package arriving in the message bowl had added one more item to each of the potion drop-offs — a small charm that would connect with the magic of the mirrors Darkniciad was creating. When those mirrors were complete, they would seek out the charms and find their way to the widely scattered witches.

"You don't even look winded," Evelyn said with a bit of wonder in her voice as she approached.

Celes shrugged. "Calling up the mists is effortless. Its coming from somewhere outside me."

"We should get home. Danica will be calling soon," Andrea suggested.

Ashley added, "And we need to get some rest before we start to work on more potions tomorrow."

Celes' brow furrowed and she frowned. "I swear sometimes that you purposely take all the joy out of life, Ashley."

The redheaded witch offered a sheepish smile. "Sorry."

"So, you'll be back in a couple of days?" Evelyn inquired.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 17



"Yes, we'll fan out in another direction to the witches you know and spread more of the potions," Ashley answered.

Evelyn smiled and nodded. "There's no way we can thank you enough — any of us. See you then, and blessed be."

"Blessed be," the three witches agreed in perfect harmony, their voices blending as one chorus. Celes rolled her eyes and Andrea giggled at the evidence of the bond they shared asserting itself. Waving her hand in a graceful, rising motion, palm upward, Celes summoned up the mists that would take them home.

Her brow furrowed for a moment when the rising cloud shone with a sooty orange glow, then she saw the Jihark emerge from a column of flame, roaring a challenge as it passed through the mists. As soon as the magical vapors curled around its form, the roar changed to one of pain. The demon dropped a knife it held and contorted horribly.

Celes lashed out with her telekinetic power, but the demon had obviously come prepared for her this time. A frigid gale swept across the hellspawn from Andrea's outstretched hands, but the creature seemed to take no note of it until the wind pushed back the mists.

The Jihark's eyes focused on Andrea as its pained yowl suddenly ceased, and it dived for the dropped knife. Celes gestured again, focusing her power not on the demon, but upon the blade.

Once again the demon roared when the knife hurtled away, cutting the creature's palm in the process. Lightning joined the wind as Andrea called upon her other elemental powers, but the demon leapt toward her with claws outstretched.

"Your other power. It hasn't seen it," Ashley shouted.

Her heart pounding with fear for Andrea, Celes squinted and called up her power of teleportation. The Jihark's claws were less than a foot from the wide-eyed blonde witch when it vanished.

Ashley's eyes darted to and fro. "Where is it? Where did you send it?"

Celes shrugged. "I'm not sure. All I was thinking was that I wanted it gone — far away."

A few tense minutes passed, but the demon did not return. Finally, Ashley said, "Did you see how it reacted to the mists?"

Celes nodded. "It acted like it was in pain." A thought occurred to her and she looked in the direction where she'd sent the knife flying. "Does anybody see that knife it had? I think I cut the critter."

Ashley's eyes lit up. "If any blood remains, we may be able to make a vanquishing potion."

Celes stalked off. "Let's find it."

The witches fanned out in the general vicinity of where Celes had hurled the knife with her power. Andrea found it lying in the roots of a tree. "Here it is. There's something black on it."

Ashley took one look and smiled. "We have to get this home now."

Evelyn ran her fingers through her close-cropped hair. "I hope you can manage to vanquish it, and I think you should be careful. It didn't even look at me when it appeared."

Celes considered it and shrugged. "Maybe we irritated it enough to turn its attention to us."

Holding the demon's knife with the blade flat so the drop of black blood couldn't drip away, Ashley said, "Let's show it that was a bad idea."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The wind howled across the frozen wastes.

At the very top of the world, a Jihark demon raged on the ice, pained by both a cut of its own knife and something that chilled the creature to its hellish bones. Whatever magic the witch had conjured up had caused it pain — tremendous pain. The drifting vapors had burned like acid, knotting muscles, and cutting it off from its powers.

Once again it tried to summon the fiery gate that would allow it to take revenge upon the witch, and once again it failed. Dropping to all fours with a snarl, the Jihark loped south across the blinding white, claws tearing into ice frozen almost as hard as stone.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica slowed, the sun hanging low in the west and the surroundings prompting her to change her mind. "Marlena, why don't we stop here for the night?"

"We're nearly down," Marlena observed, obviously glad that the trip over the mountains was nearly behind her. Then she looked around at the pine-sheltered plateau on which they stood. "It is sort of pretty here, and we're not that high any more."

"We could be in hostile territory as soon as we're out of the mountains," Danica added.

Waving toward the uphill slope, Marlena said, "As long as we put up the tent on that side, so I can't see the edge."

Danica smiled. "That's deeper into the trees and out of the wind anyhow." She reached into her bag of holding for the sculpture that would summon up the magical tent.

Tugging at her robe as the tent sprang into being, Marlena said, "I feel disgusting. I've been sweating so much."

"Go ahead and take a bath. I'll check in with home."

After an enthusiastic nod, Marlena said, "Give them my love," and walked into the tent.

A few words and gestures later, Danica could see the transparent image of her friends — including Edna — gathered around a single table, poring over their four family books. "Busy?"

Celes looked up and nodded. "It's about time. We were starting to get a little worried." A wide grin spread across her face. "The Jihark attacked again, but we got a piece of the critter this time — a drop of blood. We're working on a vanquishing potion and a spell to survive using it."

Shaking her head for a moment, Danica said, "That went by a little fast for me."

"Sorry," Celes apologized. "We have to put a bit of a hop into it, because the potion has to be brewed within a certain amount of time after drawing the blood."

"What do you mean — survive it?" Danica asked with no small amount of concern.

"Only a couple of witches have ever survived vanquishing a Jihark. It was a near thing last time, and it's supposed to be worse when you get rid of one for good, so we're taking steps to make sure that the damn critter is the only one blowing up."

Edna chimed in, "They can write a spell to contain it. Together, they have the power."

Celes snapped her fingers. "Oh, and we found out that the mists hurt demons."

Ashley held up a piece of paper. "I think I have it. Will you take a look at this, Edna?"

"Maybe I should just call back in the morning," Danica suggested in light of how distracted everyone obviously was.

"Are the two of you okay?" Celes asked.

"We're fine. We're over the mountains, and Marlena's taking a bath. She sends her love."

Celes grinned. "Good. Give her ours, and have a bit for yourself." She winked, and then gestured at the table. "Sorry we're a bit frazzled."

"It's okay. I'll call back in the morning. Just don't go after the Jihark without letting us know first. Please?"

"Aye, dearie. Go have your turn in the bath."

Danica waved goodbye and let the magic lapse. Everyone seemed more excited than concerned, but she didn't know if that worried her more or less. Trusting her friends wouldn't do anything rash, she turned toward the tent.

When Danica pulled back the tent flap, Marlena was lying in the tub, lathering her breasts. "So, what did Celes have to say?" the illusionist asked.

Definitely more comfortable in her own skin, Danica thought with equal parts amusement and arousal. "The Jihark attacked again."

Marlena sat up in the tub. "Are they okay?"

"She couldn't talk long, because they managed to get a drop of blood, and they're working on a vanquishing potion."

Marlena breathed a sigh of relief and returned to her washing. "I'm glad they're all right."

Danica turned away from the tub and set her mind to work on the task ahead. They needed to learn more about the people here, and come up with some way to reach the Emperor. More importantly, she had to keep her wandering eyes — and the Awakening — under control. Within the confines of the tent, the effects of the Awakening would take hold quickly.

The second met with a fair degree of success, because Marlena had already stepped out of the tub and wrapped a towel around her before Danica noticed.

"Your turn," Marlena declared as she picked up her bag of holding to find clean clothing.

Danica nodded, and kept her mind turning over possibilities. Taking a bath was always a bit of a sensual experience for her, and the proximity of the beautiful illusionist would only increase that. She undressed, mechanically washed away the grime of the day, and toweled dry. Feeling rather proud of herself, she tucked in the towel wrapped around her, and went to retrieve her clothes.

The sight of Marlena broke the spell.

The illusionist was dressed in a silken shift that barely covered her thighs and clung to her breasts to eye-catching effect. Marlena's nipples tented the cloth, and Danica felt her own stiffening in response.

Taking the couple of steps to her bag, she said, "I think I'll go out and get a little air."

Marlena surprised her by asking, "The Awakening?"

Nodding her head, Danica said, "Sorry."

"Don't be sorry. I think you worry about that too much. It's not as if it can force someone into bed with you. They already have to feel attracted to you for it to work."

Still digging through her bag and keeping her eyes averted, Danica countered, "But it tears down inhibitions."

"Maybe that's necessary sometimes."

In the process of letting the nightgown she'd selected settle into place, Danica caught Marlena's eye. The illusionist was admiring her body, and making no effort to hide it. Clenching her intimate muscles tight, Danica fought against surging arousal.

Marlena's voice was tinged with desire when she said, "Stay. Please?"

"Marlena..."

"Were you aroused just before we stumbled across the Oni's cave?"

Danica shook her head.

"Well, I was."

Turning to face her friend again, Danica could see the desire in Marlena's eyes. She sucked in a sharp breath as a chill raced up and down her spine.

"I've been feeling that way a lot lately," Marlena explained, "And even more since I stayed with Brandon." She moaned and let her fingers glide over her tummy, patting the bed next to her.

Wetness surging between her legs, Danica sat down and moaned when Marlena immediately sought her lips. The kiss was brief, but hungry, and one of Marlena's hands slipped beneath the hem of Danica's gown as well.

Her voice husky with desire, Marlena continued. "I was telling him about how torturous it was to be turned on all the time, and he started talking about you and me together." She gasped. "I felt like I was on fire. The way he talked about it... How hungry he sounded to see it..."

Danica couldn't hold back any longer, she kissed the illusionist, her hands exploring Marlena's body.

"I wish he was here to watch," Marlena whispered when their lips parted.

"He doesn't have to be here to watch." With that, Danica spoke the first words of a spell.

Recognizing the chant and gestures of the spell, Marlena licked her lips and moaned. When the image of Brandon sitting on his bed appeared, he was staring off into space, wearing a smile, and absently stroking a finger and thumb over a necklace hanging from his neck.

"Oh, you're so sweet," Marlena cooed.

"He can't see us yet."

Marlena grinned and nodded toward Brandon. "I gave him that necklace. I love that he's thinking about me."

"Well, why don't you tell him?" Danica gestured, directing the magic to let him see and hear them.

With a bit of amusement in her voice, Marlena said, "Hello, you dear sweet man."

Brandon jumped up, his gaze snapping to the transparent image of the two redheads. "Marlena? Danica?" He let out a long, slow breath. "I damn ta near pissed myself."

Both women laughed. Danica said, "Sorry. Marlena was feeling a little lonely for you, so I thought I'd help her out."

"You look beautiful," Brandon remarked.

"Is that for me, or both of us?" Marlena asked, running her hand up Danica's thigh at the same time.

Brandon's eyes lit up. "Is that a trick question?"

Marlena shook her head and lifted her eyebrows, the hand on Danica's thigh moving higher.

Danica let out a sharp moan and spoke a few words, using a facet of the spell that she didn't bother with often. The image of Brandon lost its transparency, and it looked as if he was sitting in the tent with them.

The hand creeping up Danica's thigh grabbed the hem of her gown and tugged upward. Letting out a whimper, she lifted her arms, surprised and excited by Marlena's boldness. As soon as her gown dropped to the floor, Danica slid her fingers beneath the hem of Marlena's shift, hooking her thumbs on the outside of the cloth. She let her fingers slide over Marlena's body as she undressed her, and then leaned in for a kiss.

Marlena's hands explored Danica's back and sides as their tongues danced together. Danica ran her fingers through the illusionist's hair, her other hand kneading Marlena's bottom.

Glancing over when she heard a grunt, Danica saw Brandon shift his cock, his eyes intent upon the pair seemingly sitting in front of him.

"Aren't you a little over dressed?" Marlena suggested, her tone more than a little breathless.

Brandon grunted, his grin broadening, and went to work removing his clothes.

Nodding toward the image of her man undressing, Marlena watched with moans of anticipation, tracing kisses over Danica's shoulders and neck at the same time. Danica watched as well, and by the time Brandon was nude, she was writhing from her friend's kisses and caressing hands.

When Brandon reclined on the bed with his cock in hand, Danica looked over at Marlena and said, "You lucky girl."

"Mmm hmm," Marlena responded, and then kissed her hard. She leaned as her tongue explored Danica's mouth, guiding her friend down to the bed.

Having the usually reticent illusionist take charge excited Danica beyond words. Brandon watching added even more spice to her arousal, making her ache to be touched. She lay back, surrendering completely to Marlena's whims.

Marlena kissed her twice more once Danica's back settled to the mattress — quick pecks that spoke strongly of need. The illusionist's tongue next traced the curve of Danica's right ear. Letting out a long moan, Danica swirled her tongue over Marlena's neck and slipped a hand across the illusionist's back.

"No coming until I say so," Marlena said while casting her gaze to Brandon.

Brandon growled. His hand sliding slowly up and down his thick organ, he nodded to indicate that he understood. When Danica tried to slip a hand between her legs, Marlena quickly straddled her and grabbed her arm. "That goes for you, too."

A sharp moan escaped Danica and she whispered, "Meanie."

A crooked grin spread across Marlena's face as she turned her head, leaned down, and kissed Danica's throat. Their breasts pressed together, and the curls on their mounds intermingled. Danica writhed on the bed, seeking closer contact, her fingers kneading the sheets.

Marlena's lips moved to Danica's shoulders — a feather-light touch on each. She then sat up over her knees, wearing a sultry smile, and let her fingertips glide over Danica's tummy in tantalizing little swirls. The caress never quite reached Danica's breasts or mound, though the illusionist's fingers came close enough to make her excited lover ache.

"Mmm. Where's this coming from?" Danica moaned.

Marlena didn't answer, but instead dropped back down onto her hands for another passionate, tongue-wrangling kiss. When their lips parted, the illusionist straightened her arms and rocked back. Looking up into Danica's eyes, she pursed her lips and blew little puffs of air against her friend's nipples. After the second teasing breath, she swooped in with her lips parted, only to veer at the last second from Danica's aching nipples to kiss the swell of her breast instead.

Danica let out a plaintive moan and tried to guide the illusionist toward her nipples. Marlena resisted at first, tickling the firm globes with her tongue, but finally relented with a sweet little moan.

"Damn me," the image of Brandon muttered as he pumped his fist slowly over his hard member.

Shuddering, Danica twined her fingers into Marlena's hair. The gentle suckles and laps of Marlena's tongue sent chills up Danica's spine. To have such a beautiful woman worshiping her breasts was exciting enough, but the unexpected desire Marlena exhibited made it doubly so.

"Oh, Marlena — yes," Danica moaned.

Marlena chuckled, and then released the nipple between her lips to flick her tongue over it in a rapid dance. She didn't neglect its twin, moving to the other breast after a second of Danica panting from the stimulation.

After an aggressive suck of Danica's stiff nipple, Marlena let it pop from her lips and looked at Brandon. "Is it like you imagined?"

"Better," he answered in a husky voice just this side of a whisper.

Still looking at the image of her lover, Marlena began to kiss her way down Danica's body. She paused at the navel to swirl her tongue around the little valley, making Danica writhe in anticipation, and then looked up into her eyes again. Two more kisses brought her to the little patch of auburn curls.

Danica bent her knees, parting her legs in invitation. She was soaking wet, and fully in the grip of the Awakening. The deep, intoxicating scent of her arousal made Marlena gasp. After pushing Danica's knee down to the bed and making sure Brandon had a clear view, Marlena leaned into the fragrant valley of Danica's legs.

A broad swipe of her lover's tongue wetted Danica's nether lips, causing her to arch her back and let out an ah of delight. Several more laps left Danica's folds glistening, each one drawing out a quiet vocalization.

Marlena sucked on her fingers, casting a coquettish glance at Brandon as she did so, and then centered the moistened digits over Danica's folds. She wiggled them back and forth, sliding the redhead's large inner lips over each other and rolling her clit beneath its protective hood at the same time. The moist, squishy sound mingled with Marlena's aroused moan and the slither of Danica undulating on the sheets.

Danica squeezed her breasts, the tips still moist from Marlena's mouth. "Oh, that feels so good."

Marlena increased the pace of her fingers for a moment, drawing a gasp from her lover, and then let the slippery digits glide downward, replacing them with her tongue. After a few wriggling licks, she said, "You taste so sweet."

Two fingers slid into Danica's canal and she whimpered. Marlena's tongue danced over her as the fingers inside her alternately stroked and wiggled back and forth. Danica caressed her breasts and ran her fingers through her hair, enraptured by Marlena's soft, slow attention.

For long blissful minutes, Danica's whole world was Marlena's loving caress. The sensation was ever changing, slowly building Danica's fires. Marlena's slippery tongue, nimble fingers, and suckling lips showed a passion and desire that Danica had never felt from her friend before.

Her passion swelled, and Danica moaned, "Oh, please make me come."

For a few moments, it seemed to her that Marlena would continue to tease, drawing out the need for release that was becoming more desperate by the second. Then, a third finger slipped into her velvety soft canal, and Marlena's lips centered over her clit.

Danica cried out, and then panted loudly for breath as Marlena's fingers built up speed. She suckled Danica's clit, washing her tongue over the swollen bud, making Danica twitch and writhe uncontrollably. Marlena moaned as she felt Danica's canal squeezing tight around her fingers, a prelude of what was to come.

"Oh yes. Make me come. So good," Danica whimpered, and then began to cry out as she neared the edge of sweet oblivion. The sheets pulled free of the bed, caught fast in her clenched fists, and her cries grew louder. The chilly itch in her loins intensified, and then finally coalesced in her clit.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 17



Danica screamed as orgasm claimed her, her body thrashing on the bed from the sudden, beautiful agony that seemed to permeate every pore. Marlena continued to lap, drinking up the flow of her lover's juices, drawing out Danica's climax. When Marlena at last sat up over her knees to tickle Danica's quivering folds, Danica went limp and let out a long, satisfied moan.

"Damn, Baby," Brandon muttered.

Having completely forgotten about their audience, Danica burst out in a silvery little laugh and smiled, though she did hide her eyes as her cheeks warmed.

Marlena licked her lips and joined in the laughter, her fingers still gliding over Danica's folds.

Danica looked over at the image of Brandon, his big cock still in hand and the tip glistening with smeared pre-cum. "Thanks for letting me borrow her."

"Any time. Really. Any time," he responded.

The two redheads laughed again, and then Danica levered up onto her elbows to better watch Marlena stroking her folds. Though her words mimicked those she'd said to Brandon, they were truly for Marlena when she said, "Now I want to borrow something else."

Marlena gasped and shivered from the desire smoldering in Danica's eyes.

Danica sat up and drew the illusionist into a kiss, moaning from the taste of her juices on Marlena's lips and tongue. Looking deep into each other's eyes, their lips met in repeated soft pecks, and then finally in a lingering, passionate kiss that gave them both chills.

As Marlena had before her, Danica made sure that Brandon had a good view when she guided her friend down to the bed and parted her legs. She stroked her fingertips over Marlena's thighs, briefly considering teasing her for a time. The sight of Marlena's folds and the sparkling evidence of wetness between them was too much to resist.

Danica leaned over one of Marlena's outstretched legs and sought out her first taste, a kissing suckle of the illusionist's hood. She looked up into Marlena's eyes after the brief tease, smiling as her friend stroked her hair.

Hungry for a deeper taste, Danica restrained the desire and let her fingertips glide over Marlena's folds. Her friend was quite wet, and the slightest penetration made her finger slippery. Taking advantage of that wetness, Danica teased Marlena's folds, occasionally giving a soft lap of her tongue over the hood at the apex.

Marlena had anticipated this moment for far too long, and she rocked her hips against Danica's fingers. Danica surrendered, pushing two fingers deep into the warm, wet heat she was teasing. The fingers of her other hand moved to Marlena's hood, rolling the bud beneath in slow circles.

"Ah. Ah. Ah, yes," Marlena cooed, her hand finding Danica's and encouraging her friend to rub faster.

Responding to that touch and the flushed look of arousal on Marlena's face, Danica stroked both sets of fingers faster. Marlena's moans and sighs grew louder, and she pinched her nipples. Whimpers mixed with the other sounds of pleasure as Danica's knowing fingers worked their magic.

Marlena cried out, "Yes, Danica," when her lover could no longer resist the arousing scent filling her lungs and leaned in with her lips parted.

Danica half-sucked, half-caressed Marlena's folds with her lips, her tongue flickering all the while. Marlena whimpered and moaned, her hand twining into Danica's auburn tresses and tightening around her neck at the same time. Danica lapped faster, pulling back her friend's hood to expose the sensitive nub below to her tongue.

Marlena came with a shocked-sounding scream, her whole body trembling. Danica drank up her juices, lapping her still probing fingers for the even tangier cream coating them as well. When the illusionist's inner quake subsided, she let out a long, languid moan and caressed Danica's cheek.

"Oh, that felt so good," Marlena moaned. Then she looked up at Brandon. "Was that a little like you imagined?"

"Yeah," he growled, now only squeezing his cock.

A moaning chuckle escaped Marlena. "Wish you were here to share. Are you ready to come, Baby?"

He nodded his head emphatically.

Danica pulled her fingers from Marlena's canal, drawing a whimper, and then licked them clean. "Hang on," she requested, and then turned to find her bag of holding.

Marlena stroked her bottom as Danica sifted through her bag until she found what she was seeking. Pulling out the two silken gloves with abnormally long fingers, she leaned in and whispered in Marlena's ear.

Following those quiet instructions, the two women sat side by side, propped up against the headboard so they had a clear view of Brandon. Their near legs entwined, and then Danica began speaking the words of a spell.

When she finished the chant, Danica tossed the two gloves into the air, and they instantly changed into mystical energy, though retaining the shape of the gloves.

"When I tell you," Marlena told Brandon. "Let us get close first."

"This is downright evil, you know?" Brandon muttered.

"Mmm hmm." Danica responded, and then sought out Marlena's lips while mentally taking control of her magical hands.

The kiss broke immediately when the long-fingered vessels of Danica's spell slipped past moist pink folds and into both women's depths. The two redheads gasped simultaneously, smiled at each other, and then turned their attention to Brandon.

The muscled warrior stroked his purple-tipped cock, the color evidencing just how hard he was. His eyes were fixed on the two women before him, and sweat beaded on his skin.

"I've never watched before. Mmm... I like it," Marlena moaned as Danica's magical hand tickled her depths.

"Me too," Danica agreed. Even though she had created the spell, the way her slightest, nearly unconscious thoughts controlled the hands to pleasure her was still amazing. Two proved no more difficult, and she was soon writhing.

Grunts and moans from Brandon joined the building sounds of pleasure from the two women. Danica could see in his face that he was struggling with all his might to keep his hand and his seed under control. A mental flicker caused the magical hands to probe harder — faster, making her cry out. She reached down between Marlena's legs to rub the tip of her finger over the illusionist's clit.

Marlena yelped, then moaned and mimicked her friend's action. The pair panted hard as magical, silky smooth fingers pushed in deep. Reaching where no mortal fingers could, but curving to find sensitive spots in a way that a cock couldn't manage, the fingers soon had both women soaring toward a peak. Crossed arms vibrated against each other as building arousal caused Danica to increase the pace of her flashing fingers over Marlena's clit.

"Oh gods," Danica whimpered, her fingers faltering as she neared climax.

"Now, Brandon. Do it now," Marlena cried out, her voice tight with pleasure and her face flushed.

The muscled warrior pumped his fist fast, growling all the while, and then released an explosive battle cry.

Twin gasps sounded from the redheads as thick ropes of cum arched high into the air, coming down to spatter over Brandon's rock-hard abs, hand, and cock. By the time a second creamy fountain spurted from the head of his cock, Danica was there.

She screamed to the canvas above, her juices squirting out around the magical hand. A second later, Marlena's hand left Danica's clit, and nails dug into her hip.

She barely noticed.

The two women bucked and writhed, still locked together by their intertwined legs. The magical hands continued to execute their last instruction, rubbing both women's g-spots while plunging hard and fast into their depths. Caught up in an intense orgasm, it took Danica some time to focus her mind enough to dismiss the spell.

When Danica could at last catch her breath, she looked up to see Brandon laying back on the bed, both hands flat against the mattress and his legs dangling nerveless over the side. His half-hard cock was covered in cum, and still twitching.

On impulse, Danica rose up on an elbow and sought Marlena's lips. The redhead responded with a soft, sweet kiss that made her shiver.

"Gods and demons," Brandon muttered.

Both women laughed and looked back to the magical window into his room. He was rising to a seated position, trembling arms showing that it required more than a little effort.

"Did you enjoy that, Baby?" Marlena asked.

"Oh yeah, Love," he answered, his face decorated with a silly, almost surprised smile.

Marlena's eyes lit up. "I like that. Say it again."

"Love?"

She nodded.

When he hesitated, Danica rolled her eyes and said, "Oh, quit trying to be the manly warrior."

Brandon smoothed back his disheveled hair, took a deep breath, and — looking for all the world like a teenager expressing his first crush — said, "I love you, Marlena."

The illusionist positively swooned. "I love you, too."

Danica's spell was beginning to lose substance anyway, so she waved to Brandon and said, "Good boy. Night night." Another wave of her hand dismissed the magic completely.

Marlena took the initiative and kissed Danica this time. "Thank you."

"Thank you," Danica disagreed, and then rubbed noses with her friend.

They both giggled, and then settled down onto the mattress once more. Thoughtless that both they and the bed were soaked in girl-cum, the two friends drifted off into sweet slumber in each other's arms.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Halfway across the world, a space not much larger than the tent where Danica and Marlena slumbered was a far harsher reality.

The chamber reeked of stale sweat — and even more unsavory things. Books, bottles, and scrolls lay strewn everywhere, the shelves where they had once resided in meticulous order nearly empty. Only one lonely circle of the floor remained uncluttered, outlined by candles and sigils drawn in blood.

Tearing at his greasy, disheveled hair, the man kneeling before that circle loosed a roar of rage and pain. Tears left new trails down his dirt and smoke-blackened face, mingling with those caused by sweat as he'd worked his magic.

Once more, he'd failed. Again, the gods had denied him the chance to see his love — his life. Nothing had any meaning without her.

A sensation similar to someone strumming a tightly stretched string in his head caused the distraught wizard to sit up straight. Something outside had stumbled into his warding magic. He knit his brow, turning toward the hallway beyond the steel-banded door behind him. The wards seemed confused, signaling both a known person and danger.

Rising on trembling legs made weak by lack of sleep, hunger, and expenditure of magical power, the wizard stumbled to his door, sliding back a small window once used by the servants of his household before he sent them all away. At first, he saw nothing out of the ordinary. The hall was dark, lit only by a few short, guttering candles, and littered with dust and debris.

Then, someone appeared at the end of the hall.

Finding reserves of strength from some hidden wellspring, he tore down the wards guarding the door and threw all his weight against the portal to force its creaking, rusty hinges.

His eyes now unhindered by the narrow view of the window, tears once again flowed down his filthy cheeks — this time of joy. Somehow, by some unfathomable miracle, he had succeeded. Standing at the end of the hall, as beautiful in her nudity as the night of their wedding, stood his lost blonde bride.

Stumbling and bouncing painfully off the stone walls, he ran to her. Once he fell, and crawled on bleeding knees until he could regain his feet. She looked confused — frightened — but he knew the spells to help her overcome the shock of returning from beyond the veil of death. He would work his magic, and they would be together again.

She held her arms wide as he approached, his vision growing dark at the edges as the burst of adrenaline faded. Lifting his emaciated arms, he wrapped them around her — and then fell amidst a brilliant flash of light and a crackle of electricity.

The darkness coalesced, taking shape, and Thanatos loosed a throaty chuckle. His beautiful pawn now stood immobile, as still as a statue, her purpose served. The wards were broken, giving unfettered access to the house, and the magical secrets within.

A flash of light heralded the arrival of Ebonar. The wizard kicked aside a decomposing bat lying at his feet and approached, examining both woman and unconscious wizard.

"He lives. Well done, Thanatos."

"It is as you asked," the demon sneered.

"You should be honored," Ebonar said to the senseless man on the floor. "I admire your work, and I have already delivered your woman to you — albeit with the unfortunate lack of a soul. Soon enough remedied, if your studies have borne the rumored fruit."

"What value could this pitiful excuse for a man have?"

"Inestimable value to me, if little to any other. You have done well, and your reward awaits."

A toothy grin sprouted from within the demon's hood, and it once more vanished into a swirl of living darkness.

"And Zoraster awaits," Ebonar said, his voice lacking in passion — even tinged with doubt. Light rose up about him, the woman, and the bony man on the floor, then faded.

The halls once more belonged to the darkness, the dust, and the dead.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Hope you've enjoyed this chapter. Please remember to vote, and comments are always welcome. Public comments are especially nice, because those serve as an advertisement for the story, which brings in more readers, which brings in more feedback. That's the fuel that keeps me writing, and the only real payment I get as a free author. So, drop a few coins in my tin cup, won't you?

With this chapter, all the ones I had finished prior to releasing new chapters again are done. We are once again completely at the mercy of my muse. I'm working on Ch. 18, and I'll release it as soon as it's complete. I can't say that this story will be done quickly, but I have too much invested in this story not to bring it to a conclusion.



Sisters of the Mists Ch. 18



Let's dispense with the rest of the author's notes, shall we? Anyone here has likely read them in previous chapters, so I don't know why I kept posting them on every one *laugh*

You should read the preceding chapters of this story in order to know the characters and what is going on. You will find that reading Book I of this story, Danica, will give you a lot of insight into the characters and the continuing storyline.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica awakened, warm beneath the covers and snuggled up against Marlena's nude body. A smile spread across her face, as her dreams had continued where she and her friend had left off, bringing Brandon into the bed with them for real.

The feeling lasted right up until she shifted position and her leg landed in a cold, damp, sticky part of the mattress.

Crinkling her nose, she snatched her leg back out of the wet spot, and the movement roused Marlena. The illusionist groaned and rolled onto her side, at which point her eyes popped open and she scrunched up her nose as well. The shock of the sudden awakening was enough for her thoughts to project to Danica, revealing that she too had discovered the state of the bed in an unpleasant way.

"Fun making the mess. Not so fun waking up in it," Danica whispered.

"Mmm hmm. I need a bath, but I don't want to get up."

"Me either." After waiting a few seconds, Danica asked, "You okay?"

Marlena nodded, the surge of emotion she felt matching the gesture. "Wonderful, actually."

"Mmm... Good. I'll start us a bath for a kiss."

The illusionist grinned and lifted an arm in invitation.

After a languid kiss, Danica summoned up the effort to rise and walk to the tub. She started the water flowing, and then turned back to the bed. "We should probably renew our spells and let everyone know we're all right."

Marlena pushed back the covers and looked down at her nude body. "Spells now. Call home once we're dressed?"

"Suppose you're right."

The magical tub had filled during the brief conversation, so Danica stopped the flow, longing to sink into the steaming water. Marlena was already digging into her bag of holding for needed spell components, and after taking a moment to admire the illusionist's beautiful behind, Danica did the same.

With both masking spells renewed to full strength a couple of minutes later, Danica nodded toward the tub. "We may as well share. The tub's big enough for two, as long as you're friendly."

Marlena gave her friend a put-upon look of suspicion that struck Danica as so sexy it set off a full-body shiver. "What are you trying to do?"

Answering with only a shrug and a smile, Marlena walked to the tub and climbed in. As Danica had suggested, the tub was large enough for both women to share, facing each other with only a little intertwining of their legs. It worked out fine until Danica went to dunk her head to wet her hair and found things a little constricting.

A flash of inspiration caused her to call upon her telekinetic powers. A quivering sphere of water lifted from the surface to hover in the air. Marlena chuckled, her eyes betraying curiosity as Danica's powers brought the water toward her. She leaned her head back and slowly released the water, solving the problem of wetting her hair.

Marlena leaned over and looked at the spreading puddle on the canvas behind Danica. "Clever, but you're soaking the floor."

Danica blew a raspberry as the last of the water trickled down over her. "Once I send the tent away, it'll be like it never happened. Lean your head back and I'll do you too."

Once finished washing, both women settled in, simply enjoying the luxury of a magical bath that stayed at the perfect temperature. Tickles from Marlena's toes prompted Danica to stroke the illusionist's legs, and once again, inspiration struck.

The stir cantrip was one of the first Danica had learned so long ago when she began studying magic. Moving her fingers through the gestures and whispering the words brought back memories of the excitement she'd felt the first time she'd worked the magic. A whole different excitement arose when the water dipped into a whirlpool in the center of the diamond formed by her legs and Marlena's.

Having scooted their bottoms close together while relaxing in the bath, the whirlpool was able to tickle both of their folds at the same time. Marlena let out a coo of pleasure and opened her eyes. Danica licked her lips, a mental flicker increasing the speed of the whirlpool.

Danica writhed, finding the whirling water just as easy to control as the silken hands the night before. Her hands roved over Marlena's legs, while her friend did the same. Water lapped over the edge of the tub as both women crept every so slowly toward a peak.

Marlena came first, a long, quiet moan passing her lips as her arching back thrust her breasts up above the surface of the water. Danica was only seconds behind, her body shivering as the soft, sweet climax rippled through her body. Her right leg continued to quiver long after the rest of her, and Marlena grabbed it, pulling it against her hip. Both women laughed, and then Danica dismissed her magic as they sat up to share a kiss.

In unspoken agreement, the pair climbed out of the tub, toweled dry, and dressed for the day. Outside of the tent, now in the full light of day, the view from their perch on the side of the mountain was breathtaking. A narrow river meandered through the foothills, pouring into a lake reflecting the bright blue of the sky above and decorated with twins of the puffy clouds. In the distance, a few small structures dotted the horizon, surrounded by patches of cultivated land carved out from the forest.

The view was enough to leave Marlena awestruck, despite her fear of heights. Unfortunately, Danica knew they couldn't enjoy it for long. She sighed and said, "Suppose we'd best call home and get going."

Marlena nodded, still looking out over the landscape. Danica let her enjoy the moment of peace while she prepared her spell.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

As the images of Danica and Marlena hovering over the table faded, Celes clapped her hands, rubbed them together, and turned to her sister witches.

"Shall we give this a try?" She nodded toward the mirror sitting on a nearby table in a spot cleared of bottles, books, and notes. One of the first half dozen completed, it would serve to test the magic of the items. The mirrors were scattered in order to test their capabilities. One remained on Darkni's isle with the master wizard. Danica's sister Devan had another within her tower in Egoria. Ashtar had plans to take one to Blackhawk Hall. Celes had used the mists to deliver the remaining pair to Evelyn and another witch from a coven nearby.

Everyone gathered around, and Celes touched the tiger's eye gemstone in the lower part of the polished brass frame to activate the magic. The mirrors harmonized with those who possessed them, so a thought was all that was necessary to direct the enchantment.

"Evelyn, can you hear me?"

An image of the short-haired witch formed in the mirror. She was smiling, and replied, "Perfectly."

The image expanded, revealing the blonde witch from Evelyn's neighboring coven. "I can see and hear you as well."

Evelyn shook her head and chuckled. "I hadn't really even thought about Veronica yet."

"The magic is fairly sensitive," Celes explained. "The mirrors should sense anxiety as well, and open channels to us, Darkni, and Devan."

"Speak of the devil," The newly congealed image of Devan interjected.

"I figure these things will get more than their fair share of that, Dearie," Celes said to Danica's fire-topped sister.

Darkniciad's voice rang out as the image of the silver-bearded wizard joined the rest. "Splendid. Splendid. Everything appears to be as expected."

"Mine's working fine, even though I'm walking around outside with it," Evelyn said.

Darkniciad said, "We'll return to our work on the primary mirror immediately. Once the rift enchantment is complete upon it, it will connect to all the others, granting them the magic."

"I don't know how to thank you -- any of you," Evelyn said.

"No need. I will return to my work." Darkni bowed his head, and vanished from the mirror.

"Same goes for us, Dearie," Celes said.

"And we have a lot of potions to make," Evelyn agreed.

"Here's to hoping we don't need these any time soon," Celes finished, and winked before touching the gem a final time.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

From its perch in a tree some miles away, the Jihark watched Evelyn walk back into her new residence and let out a hiss of satisfaction.

Its former prey might very well serve as bait to lure its new prey.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica looked out over the landscape, a lush contrast to the desert that lay just on the other side of the mountains. Not far away, a small farming village offered the first opportunity to experience the local culture. Magic allowed the pair to see across the miles, giving Marlena the visual references she needed to cloak them in the guise of locals.

The illusionist completed her spell, and Danica was surprised to see the effect. One moment, Marlena was standing in front of her, in the midst of weaving her magic. The next, a woman with darker skin, a thinner frame, raven-dark hair, and almond eyes stood in the redhead's place. Gone were her robes, replaced by what appeared to be the plain linen, belted garment women wore in these lands.

"I thought we should probably be able to see the illusion this time," Marlena explained.

Danica shook her head and chuckled. "Your voice sounds so strange coming out of that body."

"You too."

Pulling a lock of hair in front of her eyes, Danica saw that her auburn hair appeared as dark as Marlena's, far longer, and without the faintest hint of curl. One thing that didn't seem to match was her bosom. It was certainly smaller, but hardly in keeping with the average Danica had observed while magically spying on the village. Marlena's breasts were likewise larger than the handful most of the local women seemed to have.

Cupping her breasts, Danica could feel their true weight, but the illusion was so complete that her eyes told her she was holding the smaller globes in her hands. "Aren't these going to attract a bit more attention than we're looking for?"

"I don't think it can be helped. The magic can follow conscious actions flawlessly, but there are a lot of subtle things about posture and the way we move that could give us away. We're both used to having more up here, so I had to find a medium."

"Makes sense. I think we should have lighter skin and slightly rounder eyes. Maybe a little more color in our clothing, too. From what Venaru said, that's the norm the closer you get to the coast, and the larger cities. Looking like we're from farther east might help cover any mistakes we make."

Marlena nodded and spoke a few words of magic. She ended with a gesture where she held up two fingers in front of her face and swept her hand in front of her body. Once again, her mastery of illusion magic came to the fore when her appearance changed in a heartbeat. Danica would have never bothered trying to change an existing illusion, knowing how difficult it was. Marlena made it look easy.

"Perfect," Danica said, upon seeing the results. She then looked over toward the village and said, "Shall we go pay a visit?"

Marlena nodded, and the two friends began walking toward the village, taking a path leading that way from the mountains. Though the intrusion made Danica uncomfortable, she actively probed the thoughts of a pair of men working in the field outside the village. They were here for information, and her powers were the most expedient and accurate way to gather it.

The farmer's thoughts revealed a major flaw in their disguise.

'Uh oh,' Danica sent her thoughts to Marlena. 'We're standing out because women don't travel alone.'

'Why didn't Venaru say anything about that?'

'He probably didn't think about it because it was normal to him, and it's not all that different anywhere else.'

'What should we do?'

Another thought from one of the men provided a solution. 'There's a shrine somewhere nearby in the mountains. They think that maybe we came from there. They're still almost appalled to see us traveling alone, but that seems to give them some reason to understand why. They're trying not to think about it, though. It's strange. I think we go ahead for now, and just take it into account next time.'

The same sort of reaction continued as Danica cast her mental net around those she passed. The women of the village had much the same thoughts, though they were tinged with respect and longing. Those encounters also provided more information about the shrine, and the sort of people who made pilgrimages there.

An elder woman near a well seemed to be a center of attention, and had her gaze fixed on Danica and Marlena as they approached. The way the other women deferred to her marked her as someone important. Danica decided that if there was information to be found here, the best place to find it was in the elder.

'Mind playing the servant and me taking the lead? I can react to their thoughts more quickly, and that seems to be the norm for women making pilgrimages to the shrine.'

'Of course,' Marlena thought back, her mental voice sounding a little relieved.

The first thought Danica picked up from the woman was irritation. Tradition apparently demanded that pilgrims to the shrine be given food and shelter, and both were lacking in the poor farming village.

"Greetings, Wise One," Danica said as she approached, her words translated by the magic of her earrings.

The woman's disposition warmed a little. A polite greeting seemed to be a rarity amongst those visiting the shrine. "Welcome to our village. May we offer you comfort in your travel to the shrine?"

"We will not remain long, and do not wish to take from you that which you cannot afford to give. I seek only news about the rumors of war."

"These are no rumors. There will be war against the people of the sand." The gray-haired woman's emotions surged, a mixture of anger and resignation. She was torn between believing that the horrors visited upon the nearby village must be answered, and the knowledge that war would bring only more poverty and despair to her own community.

The thoughts of other people nearby assaulted Danica. The emotions were simply too strong for her to block out without making a conscious effort. Somewhere amidst the chaos, she picked up wisps of thought that told her messengers had gone throughout the nation to inform and inflame the population.

Regaining control to block out the psychic overload, Danica found Marlena supporting her and the frail elder looking at her with concern.

"You should sit," the local woman suggested.

Danica shook her head. One final thought had provided a crucial piece of information. "It is but a moment of weakness. I must continue my journey. I thank you, Wise One, for confirming these ill tidings."

The elder woman's demeanor had completely changed, reverting to her natural concern for community, and another woman. "Should you change your mind, my home is open to you."

"Blessings be upon you for your kindness and your wisdom," Danica said by way of thanks. She then nodded to first the local, and then Marlena before walking toward the edge of the village again.

'Danica?'

'We won't have a chance to take this slowly. Someone heard that the Emperor himself is coming to the village of his birth -- tomorrow. We're going straight to the root of the problem while we have the chance."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Celes pushed a cork into the delicate glass bottle, more than a little disconcerted by the black liquid within. The potion seemed to be in constant motion -- seeking escape -- as if it was just as alive and chaotic as the demon it was meant to destroy.

She sat it down on the work table. "Well, the potion's finally done."

"Only one?" Andrea asked. "The pot was so full."

"That's all that's left after brewing it all this time."

Ashley put down her pen, and ran her fingers through her dark, red locks. She paused and scrunched up her nose upon noticing how stiff and greasy her hair felt. "It was the same with my potion. You have to brew it that long for it to be strong enough to work on a demon so powerful. That's why I only have one."

"How's the spell coming?" Celes asked while gesturing toward the paper in front of her red-haired sister witch.

"It's getting there," she answered, without much conviction.

"Hmm... I think you need to get some rest. We could all probably use a break."

Andrea immediately perked up at that suggestion, and Celes could guess exactly why.

"I am having trouble thinking straight," Ashley agreed.

"Go have a long soak in the bath, and get some sleep, then." She turned to Andrea and twitched her eyebrows. "And off to Blackhawk with you."

The blonde blushed, but also laughed and nodded her head.

"What about you?" Ashley asked as she pushed her chair back and stood up.

"I'm too restless to lay about just yet. I could use some fresh air, though. I think I'll go have another look at that cave. The girls won't leave us alone about going back, so I'm going to see once and for all if I think it's safe."

"Can I go?"

Celes turned to see the youngest clone of Danica standing in the doorway.

Andrea said, "Danielle, Celes is trying to find out if it's safe. She can hardly do that with you there."

Danielle's shoulders slumped, but in contrast to Andrea's words, Celes' eyebrows lifted as an idea occurred to her. "Actually, maybe that's not such a bad idea after all."

Everyone stopped what they were doing and turned toward her in surprise.

"Why don't you go get the rest of the girls, and we'll all go. Other than the red ones, I'm not all that concerned about the rest, and I want to try something anyway."

Danielle didn't even wait for her to finish before scurrying off to the other side of the manor. Celes chuckled at the perplexed looks on the faces of her friends.

"I'm going to take a few magical precautions, and I can always mist us all out of there if I need to. I want to see if I can find out how far Danica's girls have come with their mental powers. I think that's something we all might like to know."

"Sure you wouldn't like to come with me?" Andrea asked, having apparently joined Danica's conspiracy to encourage Celes to mingle outside their small circle. "You're just taking a break from work with different work."

"I can't just sit around and wait for things to happen, Dearie. It just isn't me." She winked, waving her sister witches off to their rest.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

The waiting was the hardest part.

Ever impatient -- and often having the power to make it unnecessary -- Zoraster paced the cold stone floor of his abode. His black silk robes swished in the silence, though his mind was anything but quiet.

So many things were in place, ready to weave the strands of his grand design into a magnificent tapestry of power. Still, there were a few crucial elements awaiting the fullness of time to unfold.

It was the current wait that tried his patience more than any of the rest, however. Though only a few short hours had passed since Ebonar had delivered the frail, filthy shell of a man and the walking corpse of his wife, probes of the unstable wizard's mind revealed that his research had indeed borne fruit.

Fruit that could help return to Zoraster what he had lost so long ago to the selfish whims of those who presumed godhood.

In this task, he would trust none other than Ebonar. His cloned servant was the only other being with the knowledge necessary to avoid missing something crucial while gathering up the wizard's research.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 18



A tingling itch in the runes adorning his forehead prompted him to step quickly across the room. He could feel his new weapon -- Camilla -- stalking a black witch to increase her power. The runes tattooed upon her flesh provided her with protection and deadly magic, but more importantly, a window into her every moment. Likewise, the runes adorning Ebonar's skin allowed Zoraster to stand within inches of where his servant would appear within the lab.

Stacks of books, scrolls, and apparatus appeared when Ebonar's teleportation spell deposited him in the room, but only a single item mattered to Zoraster. Holding out a hand, he demanded, "The locket."

Having been given explicit instructions as soon as his master learned of the item from its creator's mind, Ebonar was ready, and held out the locket by its silver chain.

The moment the chain pooled in his palm, Zoraster could feel Godsbane thrumming within his robes.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica opened her eyes and started. She'd been so deep into the use of her mental powers, gleaning the thoughts of the farmers outside the village, that seeing Marlena still wrapped in her disguise as a local had shocked her at first.

"I have a general idea where the village is, but it's not clear enough that I want to risk it. We need to be there when he arrives tomorrow."

Marlena shrugged her shoulders. "I guess we'll have to find someone who knows."

"We'll head north, because I know it's that way. We definitely don't want to attract much attention, though. That means you'll have to do something about the disguise." She gestured back and forth between them. "One of us is going to have to be a man."

"Hmm. There would be the same problem as with our breasts. The illusion will waver a little where it doesn't match reality. Neither of us moves like a man."

"Well, we're missing certain things that..." Danica trailed off as an idea occurred to her. "But maybe I don't have to be."

Marlena tilted her head to the side and lifted her eyebrows in confusion.

"You can make your illusions real now. Do you think you could make certain parts of one over me solid enough to make me aware of them?"

Marlena blushed bright red, the color rising in the cheeks of the illusion wrapped around her. "You mean..?"

Danica nodded, her lips curling up into a smile. "With all those things knocking around down there, I think it would make me walk a little more like a man."

"I could try, I guess. Let me start with just the illusion, first."

Danica cast out a mental net, seeking anyone who might be observing them. She had chosen the spot for the final probe of the village carefully, and didn't pick up anything. "Go ahead. Nobody's watching."

She felt a tingle of magic, and noticed the skin tone of her hands had shifted back to normal.

Marlena then pursed her lips. "I think you'll need to change clothes. The illusion will have to work harder to disguise your robes to look like the clothes men wear here."

"Pants and a top, then?" She started to pull her bag off her shoulder and another thought occurred to her. "And no panties. I don't think that's going to work too well with all the dangling bits."

Marlena let out a little chuckle. "I suppose you're right. You'll want to keep your brassiere, though."

Danica nodded and took off her bag.

"Just a second. I may as well practice a little." The illusionist spoke the words of a spell, conjuring up a wooden bench next to Danica. She nodded toward it.

Danica sat her bag down, finding the bench as solid as if it had been waiting for them all along in the little depression where they stood. "Thanks," she said, and then went to work removing her robes.

The bench was a welcome convenience. The aroused look on Marlena's face as clothing fell away was even better.

Though most comfortable in her robes, which also provided the best access to the tools of her magic, Danica had packed away a wider variety of clothing for this trip, trying to anticipate any need on what she expected to be an extended journey. She located a pair of pants and a loose, button-down shirt.

Feeling more than a little frumpy and ridiculous once dressed, she nevertheless stood up and said, "Okay."

Marlena waved her hand, causing the bench to vanish, then closed her eyes and began her spell. Danica could feel little chilly pinpoints swirling along every inch of her skin. She couldn't help but jump a little when her hand changed. It was far larger, most certainly manly, and once again darker in tone, matching the average of the local people. With it, she pulled out on the front of her pants and saw something that made her break out into a chuckle. Pulling the pants down, she exposed the perfect illusion of a cock and balls between muscular legs. There was only one problem. The new, alien organ was standing at full -- and impressive -- erection.

She gave it a flick of her finger, feeling no sensation through the illusionary organ other than a dim sense of attachment that was a testament to Marlena's power over illusion. It did bob and twitch in a realistic manner, though. "This may be a bit more awkward than what we were aiming for."

Marlena covered her eyes for a moment and laughed. "Sorry."

"What could you have been thinking of?"

"Behave," the blushing illusionist admonished before working her magic to modify the illusion.

Danica looked down just as the transition happened, and it made her feel a moment of dizziness. Once that passed, she saw a no less impressive, but flaccid member hanging between her illusionary legs.

"Let me take a look before you try the next part." When Marlena nodded, Danica pulled up her pants and reached into her bag. The spell she wanted to cast wasn't one she practiced often, and so required her to use the material components to focus the magic.

Even reaching into the pouch to retrieve the glass dust proved difficult. She knew that her fingers were the exact same size as always, but the illusion confounded her efforts anyway. Once she managed to gather up a pinch, she fumbled the spell when she saw the unnatural fingers moving through the gestures. Closing her eyes helped a lot, and she was able to complete the spell the second time with a sprinkling of glass dust into the air.

The air shimmered, creating what was essentially a full length mirror in front of her. It was all Danica could do not to look behind her for the strange person she saw reflected in the magic mirror. Her facial features were similar to Brandon's, but with hints of Venaru. Her body was likewise a mixture of the two men, and quite an attractive one. The clothing of the illusion was much like that of the farmers they had already encountered, though cleaner and less worn. She couldn't suppress the tingle between her legs the sight caused, even though she knew that she was looking at herself.

After moving and turning to see the full picture, she let her magic lapse and the mirrored air lost its reflectivity. "I think that will do, if we can keep every woman we run into from drooling all over me. Go ahead and make it real with your gift."

"I've never tried anything like this before. I don't know how well it's going to work," Marlena warned.

"Never know until you try. If it doesn't work, we'll figure something else out."

Marlena took a deep breath and closed her eyes. In what looked to be an unconscious gesture, she reached up and laid her hand over the pendant around her neck -- the artifact that enhanced the power of her illusions. As Danica watched, the illusionist slowed her breathing and bowed her head.

Danica sucked in a shocked gasp when the magic took hold. In an instant, she felt an uncomfortable pinch and snapped her thighs apart. In almost the same moment, she had to reach down and adjust the not-so-illusionary manhood, which was sitting uncomfortably in the crotch of her pants.

"Did it work?"

Still in shock, Danica felt her tummy, which was now hard with muscle. As she lifted her hands higher, she was alarmed to realize that she couldn't feel her breasts at all through the broad chest. "Y-yes," she answered in a wavering voice.

"Are you okay?"

Her rapidly pattering heart beginning to slow, Danica blew out a long breath. "Give me a minute. This is too weird. I barely feel like I'm inside this..." She swept both hands up in front of her, and then pointed her fingers at her chest. "This."

Concern evident in her expression, Marlena walked up to her friend and asked, "Should I let the illusion go?"

"I'm not sure. Can you feel my boobs at all?"

Marlena reached out and ran her fingertips across Danica's chest. "No. All I feel is muscle."

Despite the strange feeling of the magic, Marlena's touch triggered a surge of desire. Again, she gasped when a new sensation joined all the others assaulting her.

The tingling she was accustomed to whenever arousal made her wet was there, but along with it was something else. She reached down with her overlarge hands and pulled her pants down to see the cock there swelling and straightening.

"Is that supposed to happen?"

Marlena stared at the hardening member, her mouth and eyes both wide. "I... The illusion is supposed to respond to things so it looks more real, but..."

The feeling was like nothing Danica had ever experienced. The cock that she knew was nothing more than a powerful illusion stiffened, demanding every ounce of her attention. She could feel it throbbing, and had a nearly uncontrollable urge to touch it to relieve the intense pressure.

"Gods, this thing is... I can barely think about anything else. It's no wonder they're the way they are." Her arousal had melted away in shock, but the organ had yet to respond to that. Unable to ignore the urge any longer, she reached down and pressed it against her body. For a moment, the insistent feeling vanished, only to return almost as fast.

Marlena was still staring at it, her expression somewhere between fascination and fear.

Danica pulled up her pants, again dulling the call for attention from the thing between her legs for a moment, and breaking Marlena from her hypnotized stare.

"Why won't it go away?" Danica asked as she looked down to see it tenting her pants.

Marlena could only shrug and shake her head.

An idea occurred to her. "I'm going to turn around. Don't say anything for a minute or two."

Marlena nodded, and Danica quickly spun to look in the opposite direction. She turned her concentration to the complicated formula of the permanency spell, hoping that as her studies sometimes distracted her from her desire, it might also work for her current problem.

It took her what felt like an eternity, but she managed to focus on the inflections and gestures of the spell, running them over and over in her head. The tightness of her pants lessened, and the nagging throb between her legs waned. Finally, she turned around, relieved to not have the sight of Marlena set the thing off again.

"So..."

"I think I'll be okay, but try not to do anything that might turn me on."

"You could feel it?"

Danica quickly shook her head. "Not a good idea. I swear that thing is looking for any excuse. Let's just start walking, and concentrate on whether I'm doing that right."

From the first step, everything jostling around in her pants nearly drove her crazy. A choked off chuckle at the bowlegged way she was walking made her blush, but at least the embarrassment completely precluded arousal, and the disconcerting reaction it caused in Marlena's too-perfect illusion.

This was not going to be easy.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Celes sat on a rock, well away from any of the crystals so they couldn't draw her in. Though more or less convinced that only the red crystals were dangerous after experimenting with Danica, she still made sure all the girls were close by, so she could gather them up in the mists if necessary.

After an hour of watching the girls explore the world beyond the valley in the crystals, she was moving beyond convinced to certain. Of course, the girls were all avoiding the pink crystals that homed in on sexual encounters, which she strongly suspected had been the primary focus of their attention previously. Created as little more than sexual toys by Zoraster, they still had a long way to go before sex wasn't first and foremost amongst their thoughts when left to their own devices.

Ready to move on to the next phase of her experiment, which would be the deciding factor on whether the girls would be allowed to return in private, she first took a moment to step outside the cave. A few wiggles of her fingers and quiet words conjured up a hovering ball of light, allowing her to examine the contents of a silken pouch.

The shards of red crystal within no longer glowed, and she had little doubt that there were many more pieces scattered around the cave. It was enough to perform a few experiments on, and so would do for now. The memory of the image she'd seen before the crystal shattered sent a chill up her spine, and prompted her to put the pouch away.

Back inside the cave entrance, she sought out Danielle. Though she had no proof, she believed that the youngest clone of Danica had been the first to come into her telepathic powers, and had probably advanced more than the others. Dominant and quick to attempt to assert authority over the other girls -- the polar opposite of Danica -- she'd probably kept much of what she discovered to herself.

Danielle was facing a blue crystal, her face bathed in the glow. She didn't look particularly interested in whatever she was watching, so Celes thought it was as good a time as any to move forward. She knelt down next to the young clone and laid a hand on her shoulder.

"Dearie, can I talk to you?"

The glow from the crystal dimmed as Danielle's concentration lapsed. She blinked a couple of times, and then looked up. "Hmm?"

"I want to talk to you outside for a minute."

"Am I in trouble?"

Celes chuckled. "No, Dearie. I think you may be able to help me decide if you girls can come back here." Danielle pulled her legs under her and replied with a bubbly, "Okay."

Outside, Celes found a reasonably comfortable looking spot and sat down, gesturing for Danielle to do the same. Once the redhead settled onto the grass, Celes clapped both hands on her knees.

"All right. How much can you hear of what people are thinking?"

Danielle's eyes betrayed her worry. "I... Uhm..."

"Dearie, I already told you that you're not in trouble. Just tell me."

Danielle started twirling a lock of red hair and answered, "A lot."

"I need a bit more than that, Danielle."

"Except for you, Danica, and Edna, I can hear about anything if I think about it really hard."

"What about the others? Can they do it? Damika? Denise?"

She shrugged. "They can sort of do it, but I'm better."

"So, you were the one hiding this from Edna, weren't you." She didn't even need an answer when she saw Danielle stiffen. "I thought so. What about thinking things to your sisters? Can you do that?"

"Mmm hmm."

Celes made a gathering gesture, and then pointed at her forehead.

'I'm good at it.'

'So you are,' Celes thought back. "I want you to try something for me," she then said aloud.

"What?"

"I want you to try to hear your sisters -- one at a time. Then, I want you to try to let me hear it too."

Celes could see confusion and wariness in Danielle's face.

"It's not a trick, Dearie. I think the things you can do can make it safer for you girls to come here. I want to see how much you can really do."

That was enough to push her over the edge. Danielle smiled and said, "Okay." She then closed her eyes and her brow furrowed in concentration.

One by one, Danielle peered into the thoughts of her sisters, and after a couple of false starts, managed to connect to Celes as well. It was more difficult with the clones of Danica, due to the natural resistance of their own powers, but she was able to do it. Upon coming to Martina, one of Marlena's clones, they discovered that enough time had passed for her to feel safe in seeking out a pink crystal.

"That's enough," Celes said as Martina's aroused thoughts flowed into her head.

"Did I do good?"

"Very good. You need to stop hiding things like this. The things you can do can hurt you or your sisters, if you don't know what you're doing. You need to let us teach you, and you need to share with each other, too."

"Yes, Ma'am. So, we can come back here?"

Celes wasn't fooled by the show of polite obedience, but she didn't say anything. She'd learned most of what she needed to know. Danica's girls -- especially Danielle -- were developing their powers rapidly. It was high time to increase the amount of time spent on study and control.

"Not just yet. I want us all to have a chat with Edna first. There are going to be rules."

What she left unsaid was that the strong draw the girls all seemed to feel to the cave would provide the perfect reward to encourage them to follow those rules, and to learn things that could help them protect themselves.

The red crystal and the vision she had seen within proved that no place -- even here -- was truly and completely safe.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

A chill ran up Andrea's spine as she saw Turner walking toward the front gate of the Hall. Their eyes met as the guards waved him through, and she hurried toward him wearing a grin so wide that it made her cheeks hurt.

"Hey," he said as they met just inside the gate.

Andrea laughed at his cautious greeting and took matters into her own hands. She wrapped her arms around him and kissed him soundly. When their lips parted, she responded, "Hey," and giggled.

"I missed you."

"I missed you too. A lot." She kissed him again. "So, what do you want to..."

The sound of a commotion from somewhere nearby in the city brought her up short, and caused both of them to turn toward the gate. The men there tensed, looking toward the right. Shouts and the ringing of metal on metal emerged from the general din, pointing toward a battle.

"Maybe we should go inside," Andrea suggested.

The front door of the keep burst open, and a handsome young man Andrea recognized as the Duke's oldest son emerged.

Andrea asked, "What's going on?"

He paused to grin and rest his hand on the hilt of his sword -- obviously trying to strike a grand pose. "Nothing of any great importance. A bit of a spirited argument spilling out from a pair of taverns down the street."

Turner shook his head and said, "Sounds like a war to me."

"You should spend some time on the south side of town after a high holiday. I should be going to see whether the guardsmen need any assistance in keeping it contained. If not, I might make a few wagers on the outcome." He winked at Andrea and said, "Farewell, Milady," before hurrying toward the gate, where soldiers appeared as if by magic to accompany him.

Andrea rolled her eyes at the young man putting on airs and flirting with her. When she looked at Turner, she saw him scowling at the noble's retreating back.

"Maybe you should be careful. Staring daggers at him might be considered some kind of capital offense."

A slight blush arose in Turner's cheeks. "I don't like the way he was looking at you."

Rolling her eyes again, she grinned and said, "Take it as a compliment, maybe?"

"You're making it hard to stay mad."

"Good." She stepped in closer, taking his hand as her thoughts strayed toward the bed set aside for her in the Hall.

For a moment, she saw what she believed were similar thoughts in his eyes. Then, his eyes shot wide open. He grabbed her arm and violently jerked her behind him. "Andrea, look out!"

She heard an odd pop and a whooshing sound as the sudden pull shocked her away from the naughty thoughts she'd been entertaining. When she regained her balance, Turner stood between her and a snarling demon that had appeared from nowhere in the middle of the flagstone courtyard.




Sisters of the Mists Ch. 18



The creature's wings snapped open and it leapt toward them, jaws agape.

"No!" Andrea cried out, thrusting her hand toward the demon. A straight-line wind rushed from her palm, sending the demon tumbling head over heels into a stone wall. When it tried to rise, she narrowed her eyes and called her powers to bear again.

The demon's red skin turned blue as the air around it dropped instantly below freezing. It made a horrible, gurgling noise, and then exploded into bits of goo.

Turner's eyes were once again as wide as saucers when he turned toward her. Fear clenched her heart like a fist as she saw the shock in his expression. Afraid of what he might think, she hadn't yet revealed that she was a witch.

"How?" He glanced back toward what was left of the demon. "What?"

"It... It was a demon."

"A demon? But what..."

"Turner, I have to tell you something. Promise me that you'll listen and try to understand."

"Uh... Okay. I promise."

"I stopped it. I used my powers."

"Powers?"

"I'm a witch. Not a bad one. I use my powers to stop evil things like that."

The fist around her heart tightened as he stared, not speaking. Tears welling up in her eyes, she said, "Say something. Please."

"I... I don't know what to say." A smile broke out on his face. "That was amazing."

It felt as if someone had lifted a mountain off her shoulders. "So, you're okay?"

"It beats getting eaten by that thing." He gestured behind him and laughed. "I think I should have hid behind you."

A shout sounded from behind them. "The bloody hells?"

The couple turned toward the Duke, who had emerged from the keep with a massive sword in hand and several soldiers behind him.

"It was a demon," Andrea explained.

"Looks like was is the important word." The Duke lowered his sword and scowled at the demon goo spattered all over the walls and door of the keep. He then looked at Andrea, smiled, and snorted. "Don't suppose you can magic this demon snot off my walls?"

Andrea shrugged apologetically.

"Oh well. Get somebody out here with some buckets," he instructed one of the soldiers. "Gonna have to find some way to talk you into hanging around here. Whatever you did is damn quicker than carving those things up."

She squeezed Turner's hand and said, "I think I might have a reason to spend time here."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

"Interesting..." Ebonar muttered as he watched Andrea and her beau wander off to a more sheltered portion of the grounds. A touch of the mirror allowed him to see the weave of magical energy in the scene, confirming his suspicions.

"Very interesting indeed."

The only question now was how to seek greater advantage in the blonde witch's little love affair. At least in this, he had a choice. In the more concerning matter of his Master's distraction, no such option was available.

The mirror darkened as Ebonar stepped away, caressing his chin in thought. He risked much by shielding his thoughts from Zoraster -- if the Archmage was even interested, which was doubtful at this point. It was a necessity, however. His course was clear, and established well before Zoraster's current distraction.

This small disobedience served the greater goal of Zoraster's design, and he would do whatever was necessary to see it come to fruition.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Edna examined the red crystal shards, her expression as intent as that of the girls when they gazed into the whole ones within the cave. Celes was beginning to get nervous when the older woman finally looked up from her inspection.

"So, what do you think?"

"The shards still resonate with a bit of the magic." She paused and pursed her lips. "The energy is dark, but not necessarily evil. It feels more like a warning than malice."

Celes snorted. "Not how I felt about it when it blew up in my face."

The old witch smiled. "I would imagine not. The girls don't seem interested in the red ones, though. They were going to the cave for pleasure, not fright."

"True. I'm of a mind to let them go. Watching them, it felt right for some reason."

"You should have Andrea and Ashley go with them. See if they feel the same as you." She pointed at the shards. "The magic in these is witchcraft. Or rather, it's the pure magic from whence our powers come."

"You're saying that those weren't enchanted by someone? That they're natural?"

"In this valley -- yes."

Celes narrowed her gaze. As usual, Edna seemed to know far more about this place than she let on.

The old witch chuckled and reached out her hand to pat Celes'. "When the time is right, I'll tell you more."

"When will that be?"

"When I know it."

Celes threw her other hand up. "I don't understand."

"There are many things that I know -- when I need to know them. It's been that way since I was a little girl." Her eyes grew distant for a moment, and she chuckled. "It drove my parents to distraction."

"Your powers?"

"No, I don't think so. When it happens, it's as if I've always known these things, and they've been waiting for the right moment to come out where I can get a hold of them. If it's any consolation, often times, I'm just as frustrated by it as the rest of you. There have been many a time when I wished these things would have come to me sooner."

Celes nodded, accepting the answer. "So, you think it's safe for the girls to go?"

"My heart tells me it's right. Have your sisters go with them, though. Between the three of you, your instincts are better than any wisdom this poor old woman has to offer."

"I don't know about that, but I will."

"The first key to unlocking your destiny is believing in the bond you share without question, Celes. Once you can do that, the three of you can work wonders. That much I know without anything hidden in here," she tapped her forehead.

Celes nodded and turned her palm upward to give the older witch's hand a squeeze. "I'll let you get back to the girls. Who knows what sort of mischief they've gotten themselves into without a minder."

Edna stood and made her way back to the other side of the manor, leaving Celes alone in the lab. It was a rare thing of late, with all the work they'd heaped upon themselves. No pots full of questionable ingredients brewing. No one with her nose buried in a book, mouthing the words of a new spell. She looked around, feeling lost and a little lonely.

It started as the slightest tingle -- barely there -- but steadily grew. As Edna had said, she was never truly alone. At Blackhawk, Andrea and her lover had gone beyond kissing, and Celes could feel the building arousal of the young blonde. Then, she could feel Ashley as well, slowly coming awake as her body reacted to her sister witches.

Knowing that the redhead wouldn't be sleeping before long anyway, Celes stood and headed toward her room. Relaxation was probably just as important as sleep, and she knew a fine way to relax her beautiful friend that neither of them could likely resist.

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Danica and Marlena walked away from the old man sitting on the edge of a creek with a line in the water. With nightfall approaching, Danica had finally mastered walking with her strange new appendage, and Marlena said that her walk was not only acceptable, but actually quite enticing.

More importantly, the old fisherman knew the exact location of the village they sought.

The fringes of the nation were poor, and people rarely traveled beyond the nearest village. The elderly man had once been part of the army, and had thus seen a great deal of territory. He was easily twenty years older than the bulk of the people they'd encountered, and considering his former occupation, he was a fortunate man indeed.

Once out of sight over a rise, Danica pointed to the north. "We should see it within a few minutes of walking. I thought we were never going to find it in time."

"I was beginning to wonder myself. It's sad how poor these people are -- how isolated."

Danica nodded. "Let's go see the village, and then find somewhere out of sight and off the beaten path to set up the tent." She paused for a moment. "I think we should probably take a few extra precautions tonight. I don't want to be this close and have something go wrong at the last minute."

"I'll watch for any good spots along the way."

Even though it wasn't necessary with nobody around, Danica maintained the swagger she'd adopted in her disguise as she walked. Any time she didn't concentrate, she slipped back into her normal, flowing gait that no doubt looked positively ridiculous with her current appearance. Sticking with it was the easiest way to avoid making a mistake when it mattered.

After a couple of minutes, Marlena asked, "How are we even going to get close to the Emperor? Never mind what we're going to say if we do."

"I'll think of something. If worst comes to worst, I'll send my thoughts straight into his head. If nothing else, that should stop him in his tracks. I'd rather figure out some way for us to speak to him in person -- and alone -- though. There just isn't time to come up with anything sophisticated. We don't know how many guards he has, or how much he isolates himself from other people, or anything."

"I suppose I shouldn't worry. You always seem to find a way."

"By the skin of my teeth, most of the time," Danica quipped. "I'm going to try to feel him out a bit with my powers before we talk to him. That may give us an idea of how to approach him."

Marlena looked off toward the horizon at the setting sun. "I hope it's not much farther. It's getting dark fast."

They neared the top of a small rise and Danica stopped before cresting the hill. "Wish granted. There it is. It looks exactly as that fisherman remembered, even though it didn't take us as long as I expected to get here. I guess he probably walks a little slower."

"It looks like every other village we've passed."

The small collection of homes was little more than a hub for several farms, and indeed looked little different from any of the other poor communities along the way. "Except for that," Danica said and pointed.

Marlena followed her gaze and saw a large statue that appeared to be made of marble near the entrance of the village. "That probably cost as much as everything in the village," she said with disgust.

"Probably more. Considering the poverty in his own Empire, it doesn't speak well of the man. I guess we'll know for sure when we talk to him. It could be functionaries taking on the daily tasks and keeping him out of the loop."

"I hope so."

"Me too. If he's that self-centered, convincing him to call off his army isn't going to be easy. We'd better find a place to set up the tent." She pointed the direction from which they'd arrived. "That way, somewhere off this path. Maybe back in those trees."

Marlena rubbed her legs, which ached from so much walking. "I'm hardly going to argue with that idea."

"I know how you feel. We're getting soft from popping back and forth everywhere we want to go with magic. Speaking of which..." She held out her hand.

Danica cast her spell, and they appeared at the edge of the trees in a puff of brimstone smoke. They held their breath and moved as quickly as possible away from the odoriferous by-product of the spell and into the rapidly darkening woods. There seemed to be no trail where they appeared, which suited Danica perfectly.

The two made their way through the trees and found a clearing just big enough for the tent a short distance inside. It wouldn't take long to leave the woods in the morning, but there was ample foliage to hide them, though Danica had no intention of leaving that to nature alone.

A single word set the camp for the night, but many more were required to weave the warding magic around the clearing. Finally satisfied, Danica said, "Let's call home so we can finally relax a little."

"Do you want me to turn you back?"

Danica grinned. "The look on their faces when they see me will probably be well worth waiting."

Marlena covered her mouth with her hand to stifle a snorting laugh. "I hadn't thought of that."

Growing used to her unnaturally large fingers, Danica was able to cast the spell without incident. However, when she saw the lab at the manor, it was empty.

"That's strange," Marlena remarked.

"Well, let's try the kitchen. Maybe they were wrapped up in things and dinner's late."

Danica shifted the focus of her spell to find the kitchen dark and abandoned. The baths were the same. Not wanting to startle the girls, she skipped that wing of the manor and tried Celes' bedroom. It was just as empty as every other room, and the bed was made. Andrea's room was the same.

Bow knitting, she shifted the focus to Ashley's cottage and sucked in a gasp. 

Celes leapt from between Ashley's legs with her hand raised in a gesture common to using her powers. She froze when she noticed that the intruders were only magical images, and that one of them was Marlena.

"The bloody hells?" Celes asked. Her face glistened from the tip of her chin to her nose with Ashley's juices. The redhead trembled and twitched, obviously still in the throes of orgasm as she tried to sit up.

"Sorry," Marlena quickly apologized.

Celes and Ashley both looked absolutely delicious -- naked and visibly aroused despite the interruption. Danica felt the alien thing in her pants growing larger. "You did tell us to call every night."

The dark-haired witch violently shook her head for a moment. "Danica?"

Danica held her hands out to her side and smiled. "We needed a disguise."

Ashley pulled her legs together and shivered. "H-how can we see an... An illusion through..." An aftershock silenced her and caused her to curl up.

"Marlena used her powers to make the illusion real," Danica explained. "I needed to walk like a man, and I thought having all the parts down there might help."

A haunted look appeared in Celes' eyes, and she glanced back toward the bed for a moment. In an uncharacteristically shy gesture, she lifted an arm and covered her breasts. Danica didn't need the benefit of her empathic powers to guess what was wrong.

Celes was almost never intimate with another woman unless Danica was present. Their relationship was a bit more complicated than just friends and lovers. So many years sharing Zoraster's prison had made them more than that.

"It's okay, Celes," Danica assured her. "I'm happy to see you doing anything that doesn't involve potions and books. Ashley certainly looks like she's enjoying the evening."

Color rose in Ashley's cheeks. "Evening?"

Realizing the time difference, Danica rolled her eyes and said, "I keep forgetting how far east we are. Sorry to interrupt. We just wanted to let you know we were okay before we bedded down for the night."

Celes still looked embarrassed and troubled, indicating that she and Danica needed to take some time out to talk in the near future. They'd both agreed some time ago that their relationship hadn't reached that level yet, but this was the first time Celes had strayed.

Hoping to lighten the mood and encourage her friend to enjoy herself, she smiled and twitched her eyebrows. Not knowing how it looked on her strange face, she added a wave of her hand toward the pair. "Pick up where you left off. I'd hate to think that I ruined the moment. We'll call in the morning -- and keep it to the lab. If we don't see you, I'll send something through the message bowl."

Celes nodded. "Take care of yourselves, and come home soon."

"I hope so. Love to you both."

"From me too," Marlena added.

With that, Danica offered a wave and dismissed the magic.

Marlena said, "That was awkward. I've never seen Celes look so bashful."

"She'll be fine. That's the last time we peek in on bedrooms, though. No matter how enticing the thought is." The awkward appendage in her pants twitched, once again trying to attract all of her attention to it.

The steadily growing level of arousal she felt from Marlena wasn't helping, either.

"Let's go inside. We need as much rest as we can get, and you never know what the night might bring."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Rexxus stiffened, feeling a magical noose tighten around his neck. Throughout the world, the demons that had poured through the portal at Meckataur's command likewise felt his control over them solidify.

The devil growled, shaking out his muscled form as the sensation faded -- though he knew the noose remained. The very air thrummed with power, even though the portal loomed deep beneath his feet in the caverns below Nightmare Castle. In a flash of thought he vanished from the castle, to appear at the entrance of the great, vaulted cave housing the rift to the hells.

Meckataur the Destroyer stood before the portal, having grown at least a foot in stature from the power gained in mastering the demons infesting the world. He turned -- hellfire flickering about his entire body -- and loosed a chuckle that echoed throughout the cavern.

"Rexxus... The time is ripe. My spawn come. Bring them before me."

{*****~~o~~0~~o~~*****}

Hope you've enjoyed this chapter, and as always, my apologies for it taking so long.

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The next chapter is underway, and I'll post it as soon as it's finished.