Preys & Predators IV; Monster and Witches Chapter 22

 22.

 

Brown saw Victor Frankenstein take the direction towards town and chose to follow. Marcos was left there to observe the mansion. He was surprised that the man he was tailing took off from the road and into the woods.

Victor had no intention to return to the town but was in search for Mary. He knew that the only person—ironically, then he thought of the creation as a person—who may assist him in fighting off any demons or witches. He had seen it in action and gave it some thought.

His creation wanted a mate.

A unique request, but was it not what Adam asked of God then.

“I am not God,” Victor mumbled to himself. “How could I create a mate … when I am unsure how it was created?”

Victor reflected on himself. He was lonely after the death of his brothers, and Judith. He thought he found love with Elizabeth, and the child was their blessing, but he was wrong. The mother decided to leave the child and him. He thought hard on it. He left his creation without checking if it was…… alive or perished. He took to the city, and never looked back for ten years. While he was in the city, he ignored the queries on the creation or even scant words of it from the rumours. He was done with the creation as Elizabeth was with Mary Annabelle, and yet he returned.

“I must be mad.” Victor mumbled to himself while he looked at the trees and bushes. Familiar sights to him from his younger age, but during then, it was like a new scenery.

“Mary ……” Victor called out. “Meet me. Do you want a ……, Henry?”

His voice reached beyond the trees, and unexpectedly, Victor found himself meeting another.

“Hello, Mr. Frankenstein. My name is Inspector John Watson.” The figure appeared from behind the tree. “We ……”

“Have I seen you before?” Victor looked at the man. He was in the woods and a distance from the road.

“You may have. I was the constable then, Watson. I replaced Constable Brown, who went missing. Under Inspector Lestrade.”

“Oh, I cannot truly recall, but you did look familiar.” Victor smiled. “I am surprised to… see you here.”

“Oh, small town here. Not that small like when you left here ten years ago.” The Inspector smiled back. “I do take long walks in the ……. woods and heard your voice.”

“Was it Mary you were looking for?” Inspector Watson asked. “Who is Mary?”

“Oh, that was ……. Not whom I was looking for. I was singing an old song. ‘Mary had a little lamb.’ I sing it to my ……. Daughter. We …….”

“Yes, you arrived yesterday. With the young lady. I was told.” Inspector Watson smiled. “The town is still small. Words get around fast. Will you be staying long? The mansion……”

“Lots of questions, Inspector.” Victor smiled. “I……”

“A peculiar habit of my profession. My apologies. Please do wander on.” Inspector Watson smiled. He watched the man take back to the road. He then took off on his own trail; to find a member of his coven. It was not too far when the Inspector came upon the golden oak tree.

“Golden Oak, I can tell you have something to tell me.” The inspector looked at the oak tree. It was from the ground; the roots sprouted out, and then the remains came out. The inspector looked at the remains and then sighed.

“Two of them. I wondered who they are.”

“One is yours, William Katt. And the other mine.” Wiccan Agathe appeared there. She was with two others: novice witches.

“Finally, the Wiccan reveals itself.” The Inspector looked at the other. “How many years was it? Ten or more……”

“Ten years, Warlock. We were both not that ranking, but you took over my town. My coven dispersed ……”

“Why, Wiccan or ……. Was it Mildred of Eastwick then? Why the change of name?”

“Nothing unusual. As Mildred, I was not ready to battle you. I am now Wiccan, and Agathe is my maiden name. Unlike you, I reverted to my real name and not retained a …… nickname.”

“William Katt held a history here, while John Watson was a refreshing new start.”

“Like you, I was in search of others to enhance my powers.” Wiccan Agathe smiled. “The ones who bids their time, will win in time.”

“So, who is here? Besides my own.” Inspector Watson asked.

“Mine is Jae, a young aspiring witch. And yours?”

“Mine is Allen. A fool but obliging to listen to my commands.” Inspector Watson studied the remains. “Mine was killed by …….”

“A demon, I could tell.” Wiccan Agathe said. “Looks like they are back.”

“And yours was … by an Enforcer.” Inspector Watson looked at Stefan. “Not him. He does not look like he is ready.”

“Why are you, Warlock?” Wiccan Agathe moved the subject matter.

“A spell was cast near here. I… and you probably did, sensed it. If it is not ours, then another coven is here…. Or nearby.” Inspector Watson looked at the Wiccan. “It is …….”

“The event is near, Warlock. You knew of it. More covens may turn up. Whoever can harness the power then will be a Lord of the Covens.” "Wiccan," Agathe said. “I am not surprised if you had done this.”

“I do not perish the witches of the coven except it’s Wiccan, for the leaderless members can be mine.” Inspector Watson smiled. “You would have done the same.”

“Let me at him.” Stefan rushed at the Inspector but was thrown back onto the tree trunk by the latter with the spell.

“Foolish of him.” Inspector Watson looked at the Wiccan. “I do not wish to hold battles with you. We have another threat here.”

“More than that, Warlock. You tend to ignore the creature. It lurks around here.”

“The creature has been… non-existent for many years.” Inspector Watson snapped back. “I will focus on the covens that have arrived.”

“You are still narrow-minded, William Katt. It may be your downfall.” Wiccan Agathe smiled. “Your coven here is under threat too.”

“As you have killed my member? Or maybe Jeeves too?” Inspector Watson confronted the Wiccan.

“Our battle has yet to be resolved. We need to counter the new coven here.” Wiccan Agathe replied. “Conserve your energy for that. The event drew near.”

“We will leave now.” Wiccan Agathe turned to leave with her members. Inspector Watson stood there looking at them, and then back to the remains. He took on the spell that created a flame over the remains and burned it all.

“Who is there?” Inspector Watson's instinct told him that he was not alone. He looked around at the trees and felt the movements on the trees displayed signs that the spirits in the woods were protecting that one who was hidden there. He was not ready to battle the woods spirits yet.

“I will return.” Inspector Watson then turned to leave. The roots of the tree were returning to the ground with the ashes of the remains. It will be their nutrient there.

Victor at that moment stopped in his tracks when he saw the chaise pulled up next to him on the road. It was the doctor who met him at the tavern.

“Hello, Doctor Helsing. Are you meeting someone?”

“No, Master Frankenstein. I was just riding around.” Doctor Abraham smiled. “Care to join me if you are in town?”

“I …… Okay. I am to go back to the tavern.” Victor took the offer and climbed onto the chaise. “Are you familiar with the use of electricity?”

“Me? I will not deny that I am a man with scientific learning. When I spoke to you on the works of galvanising, I was ……. Should I state that as experimenting with it”? Doctor Abraham smiled. “Why do you ask?”

“I am……” Victor was struggling to find his thoughts, and Doctor Abraham cut in.

“Animal electricity, or shall I say tissues from the living, held that in it. ‘De viribus electricitatis in motu musculari,’ the provocative theory, set the world of science abuzz.” Doctor Abraham assisted there. He knew something was in the conversation. “Alessandro Volta disputed it, but it was debatable. As I debate with you on your ……. creations.”

Both men laughed.

“What if…” Victor drew on the subject. “If… assuming that I will resume my experiments, perhaps you could…”

“Assist you? Yes, I could. I am to state on the record, I am not a true inventor, but assistance could suffice here.” Doctor Abraham laughed. “Like Pinocchio to what his name … Geppeto.”

“You are not a wooden construct, and I am not …” Victor smiled.

“No, but Pinocchio was a construct and came alive soon after.” Doctor Abraham laughed. “He had a Godmother.”

“Look, Doctor. If you do not take this seriously, I may be ……” Victor sounds stern.

“No……. No……. It will be an honour to work with you, Associate Professor. How… when do we start?”

“Soon. I need to ……. Do you know how to assemble a generator?” Victor asked.

“I have some skill sets there. Perhaps I could.” Doctor Abraham smiled. He did have a hand in assembling electrical parts, a side hobby of his when needed to repair the electrical machines. “I worked with Nikola Tesla for a while.”

Abraham’s work with Tesla was on the command of the High Council, who felt that Tesla’s work was on some projects involving energy rays. He was a futurist in the view of many but troubled by his experiments. Abraham was then younger and attached himself to Nicola as an apprentice.

“What did you do then?” Victor was amused that the doctor was experienced in various fields.

“Oh, experiments and most failed but the man himself, Nicola Tesla, younger then was always looking forward.” Doctor Abraham smiled. He reported his findings to the High Council and was taken off the task.

“And how did you get into metaphysics?”

“Well, metaphysics had relevance to electrodynamics. It explores the fundamental nature of electric and magnetic fields, questioning if they are real entities or just mathematical descriptions, their relationship to reality, and how concepts like space, time, and reference frames affect them …….”

“Doctor Abraham, you are the man I am looking for.” Victor laughed. “Now, let me share with you something personal.”

“The creation?” Doctor Abraham uttered.

 

 

 

Preys & Predators IV; Monster and Witches Chapter 21

 

21.

 

Abel stood at the corner watching Lauren. She dressed in the travel clothes, the dark dress with the boots, and the hood over her head. She was trembling in fright, and her father was trying to comfort her. He looked around and saw nothing there in the chamber that could assist her. The other elderly man had taken what was left of the demon creature outside.

“Sir, may I offer …….” Abel asked and was turned down.

“No, she is fine.” Rudolf looked at his daughter. Lauren has the glazed expression on her. “Are you okay?”

“I used my power… my spells,” Lauren muttered. “I was told not to.”

“You did for me. The demon was to attack me,” Rudolf said. “My ……. Weapons are not useful.”

“Sir, can I…?” Abel looked over but was turned down by the father.

“Do be silent. I am trying to talk to my daughter.” Rudolf turned to glare at the young man. “Be silent.”

“Yes, Sir.” Abel turned to the window. He wanted to help, but he hardly knows the man and lady. He wished his father was there. He heard then the return of the other man.

“Sir, I am back. I brought weapons.” The elderly man appeared with the guns and other weapons. “Do you remember the days when you were in the army?”

The elderly man held three rifles with bayonets and a bag of bullets. Rudolf nodded. It seems like a long time ago when he was in the uniform. He recalled the first time they met the Tsar. They were a unit of soldiers under the Общий, given the special task of eliminating the special reference stated in the order by the Field Marshal, under the direct order of the Tsar.

“The Tsar have expressed concern on the development of the unnatural beliefs.” The Field Marshall met his guests in the official office of the Military Branch.

“Literature of such.” The field marshal slammed his fist on the table. The table was stacked with books and other newsletters there. “We are in the 19th century and soon the 20th century, and yet our beliefs slid to the yesteryears of ancient Slavic folklore …… and these growing influence of Western Gothic what you may termed as romanticism in literature.”

On the table were seen the volumes of Domovoy, Leshy, Bannik: Household, forest, and bathhouse spirits, long considered the "hidden people" or ancestors/the dead, connected to "unclean force"; Baba Yaga and Koschei the Deathless: Powerful, baleful figures of folklore. Baba Yaga is a witch who lives in a hut on chicken legs, while Koschei is an evil, immortal sorcerer who menaces young women, his soul hidden in an egg far away.

“All these are blasphemy of the ……. Mindless.” The Field Marshall sighed. “My own ……. Daughter is reading it.”

“Field Marshall, the ……” Общий stood to attention. “We cannot dispute that the folks are ……. uneasy. The current famine in the provinces of Nizhni-Novgorod, Riazan, Tula, Kazan, Simbirsk, Saratov, Penza….”

“The Volga basin…… I am aware. It affects all of us, but the concern here is not the famine but the mindset of the folks. Their minds are plagued by reading these.” The field marshal slammed his fist once again on the books. The senior officer is known for his orthodox views. “These activities prompted the bourgeoisie of various nationalities in the Russian Empire to develop a host of parties, both liberal and conservative. Some fuel by these unorthodox thinking.”

“Sir, we must not ……” The Общий pressed on.

“Derailed in our thoughts.” The field marshal glared at the officer. “Do you know who stands beside the Tsar now? Alexander III, our Tsar, is …… Well, he is getting ready to step down. Nicholas II will be the new Tsar.”

“I am aware, Sir. But that……”

“Nicholas II… he is not our friend.” The Field Marshall sighed. “He is focused on other matters like his confidante, the monk Rasputin. That man is mad. But the concern I hold is this.”

“Do you recall the Dark Ages, the Black Plague… It is not the work of God but of the devils and its worshippers. I am told that the dark age will once more return. We must be prepared.”

That was not a statement but an order from the Field Marshall.

“Общий, you are a member of the Order, the Order of the God’s creation.” The field marshal looked at the other. “You swore an oath to protect God and his teaching.”

“It is …….” The Общий held his belief from the oath of his duties.

“I am not asking you forsake God. I am asking you to lead the way forward. I heard of the chaos that the worshippers have inflicted on the world. You are the next best person to ……”

“I declined, Sir. I am …… personally …….”

“Personally affected? I am aware of your affection for the lady, Annabelle … her name.” The field marshal paused to remember the name. “You are aware of her……affiliation to the coven. Witches they are all. Yet you immersed yourself.”

“She is with… our child.” The Общий stated his commitment.

“And how many have you sired besides her, Общий? I am sure a man of your standing does not hold a stable but a huge corral of mares.”

“None, sir. I am ……. Faithful. My aide, Rudolf, will attest to that.” The Общий motioned to his aide, Rudolf Spielsdorf.

“He is your aide and follows you regardless of what is right or wrong. As you would now, as my officer.” Field Marshall stated his order. “You will lead a company of good soldiers; devoted men who have one thing in their heart, God. And they will be armed with the weapons that will give you an edge over the worshippers. You will hunt and terminate them who are, in the view of God, deviants.”

The company was formed, and they took their order from the field marshal. They hunted the ones identified as unorthodox, and crossed the land from the steppes to the frozen woods of Siberia. Sven Ducard, then a recruit, worked his way to be the messenger/personal valet of the Общий.

The personal lives of the Общий and Rudolf were tested when they assaulted the mansion where the coven was situated. They assaulted the mansion and killed many of the witches there till they reached the huge chamber. In the chamber was the mausoleum for the departed coven leaders. The Общий and Rudolf with Sven entered the sacred chamber. They were surprised at whom they met.

“Annabelle?” The Общий was stunned. It was his lover there. The lady was with Lissa and one other unknown.

“Yes, my love. It is me.” Annabelle stood there with Lissa, who was known to be involved with Rudolf. “We are ……”

“You promised me that you would leave the coven.” The Общий cut in. “For our family…”

“Lissa, you too?” Rudolf stared at his own love.

“We are part of the coven. We cannot leave them at their moments of need.” Annabelle said. “Let us be. You have done your part. We are ……. defeated. Let us go.”

“I ……” The Общий sighed.

“Not for me, but our children please.” Annabelle sighed. “For William, and Victor…… please.”

“Red, do it for us too.” Lissa stepped forth. “For us.”

Rudolf was stunned. He had acted on orders, but to see his love there was unexpected. The end was stated, and Sven sworn to secrecy. His loyalty was extended to the day he arrived at the Frankenstein’s mansion.

“Sir, the weapons.” Sven interrupted the other in his thoughts.

“Thank you, Sven.” Rudolf held the rifle in his hands. The Berdan II was produced in four variants: an infantry rifle issued with quadrangular socket bayonets. The bayonet used by the company was special, with the serrated edge, and the steel was mixed with silver. The metal silver is generally not something that is feared in witchcraft or by vampires to werewolves; rather, it is often considered a powerful tool against various supernatural entities.

“Where is Victor?” Rudolf asked. During the battle, the other stood by the side, unmoving and after it, he took off.

“He went back to town,” Sven said. “He was concerned about his daughter.”

Rudolf looked to his own and wished there was a way to end all the concern there

“Sir, the Общий’s sword.” Sven offered the sword once wielded by the other. “After his death, the ……. No one wanted it and I kept it. You can keep it.”

“Thanks Sven.” Rudolf took the sword. It was a gift from the Field Marshall to the Общий. It felt heavy, but that sword had served the Общий well. It will do the same for him.

“Sir,” Sven kept the rank Общий only for the other officer. “If we are under threat of attack, we must reinforce the mansion.”

“I know, but it is huge. We need to reinforce only certain chambers for ourselves,” Rudolf said. “Any news on Victor Frankenstein?”

“I can help, Sirs.” Abel offered his help. He was ignored by the two older men for some time. He tried to talk to Lauren, but she seems to be in shock.

“I could bring my brother here. Maybe even my father….”

“I do not need your entire family, son. We will do fine here.” Rudolf cut the other off. He then looked at Sven. “I think we are better off at your place. It is easier to defend.”

“What about the runes, father?” Lauren spoke up.

“Soon, after we fight off the demons,” Rudolf replied. “If one is here, the others will come.”

“As I have said, sir. I can get help.” Abel approached the man. “Let me get help.”

“No, son. You have done enough.” Rudolf looked at Abel. “You may go. We can defend ourselves.”

“I am not leaving, sir. I can ……” Abel looked towards Lauren. “I……”

“Father, let him stay. He will…….” Lauren pleaded to the father. “I am scared… of being alone.”

“Take a rifle here, son.” Sven offered one of the rifles. “You do know how to shoot them?”

“Yes, Sir.” Abel took the rifle offered. He does not use one, for there was the crossbow and the iron arrows.

“These are special. The bullets will stop a vampire or werewolf any night.” Sven handed the pack of bullets from the bag.

“Werewolves? Are there any here? I have not seen any yet.” Abel said. “Kane may……”

Abel was cut off by Rudolf.

“Stop gapping there. Stay then, son. Let us move to the cottage now.” Rudolf gave the order. Abel moved towards the lady.

“May I assist you, my lady?” Abel asked when he slung the rifle over his left shoulder.

“It is Lauren. Yes, please. I am still ……” Lauren smiled weakly.

“I will take care of her.” Rudolf stepped in. “Hold the rifle firm. Follow behind us. See if there is any … demons there. They do creep up.”

The tone taken by Rudolf was sarcastic, but Abel was complying there. Sven had taken the lead and was focused on how to accommodate them all.

 

Hello all, and Happy Easter

 Pardon me, readers. Life took on some battering of recent dyas.....work, stress, and more works......

But, as my mind still works, I am still writing. I was doing some read up, and found a couple of older unfinished tales back to 2021, and dragged them out and read them, and then re-write some. An excerpt here, may subject to more editing in the final draft.

Heroes Return IV.

“Holmes, I placed the shoes there because the rugs looked clean, and Mrs. Hudson gets all clammy when she must pick up the ashes of your tobacco. I was relaxed and fell asleep seated here; it is my old chair. And I came here because I was in London to pick up supplies… for my patients too.” Watson looked at Sherlock. “Shelly, you are getting……. Complacent if I may diagnose.”

Shelly was the nickname of Sherlock from Mycroft.

“And more to that, I came because Mrs. Hudson asked me to come up. I do pay my share of the rent here. The……"

“A convenient mode. I told Mrs. Hudson to do it for me.” Sherlock took the credit from Mrs. Hudson. “She may be a…"“So, she is now you, a part of the Baker’s Boys, or rather lady.” Watson smiled.

"Boys, or rather, I will call you, darnedest of the males. Both of you are the au pair in this world." It was the fortunate timing of the housekeeper, who had arrived with the tray of tea and scones. She had changed from her formal attire of the dark suit and boots into the drabby white frock and apron with the deep pockets.

“Mrs. Hudson, you are a delightful sight.” Watson quipped up. “And thank you for the tea.”

Watson took the tea offered and saw Sherlock had not moved from his seat despite the cup of tea served onto his side table. It was typical behavior of Sherlock when he was in sleuth mode.

Watson then decided on the matter, but Sherlock read his mind.

“An hour ago, the minister of the Exchequer country retreat was intruded on, and the household with the guards was killed; all six of them in a ghastly mode, but the personal assistant, Mindy Kewala, was not found. Perhaps kidnapped or, at worse, killed somewhere else. They are still looking after her. Do you know her?” Sherlock held the telegram he held.

-----

It was to the end of Commercial Road before the duo stopped their running. Charlie Song found his pace to do the run despite his middle-age limitations. He leaned on the wall by the corner of the shop offering daily catch seafood.

“Nayland Smith, what on earth provoked you to meet there? We could have done it at Piccadilly or at Shaftesbury.” Charlie heaved in deep breaths. “Simplicity is difficult to achieve?”

“Nay, Charlie. I wanted to be in the depth of the place. Fu Manchu is a devious man. “I never believed him to be dead. He's cruel, callous, brilliant, and the most evil and dangerous man in the world."

“Famous words of yours there, Nayland Smith, and yet you are screwing his daughter.” Charlie smiled. “He is technically your father-in-law.”

“Fa Loh Suee is…. We eloped, and technically, we are not screwing each other. We make love, and for info, she is in America to see some friends. You can call it sabbatical leave period.” Nayland explained.

“Call it what you may want, Nayland Smith. We were fucked just now.” Charlie leaned out to see if they were pursued by any. 

“I thought you were comfortable there.” Nayland Smith smiled. “I was. I do miss the mainland.”

Nayland Smith was an operative of the Foreign Ministry assigned to the Far East for some years. His role there was to do clandestine tasks on the criminals there, where he met the daughter of the Mandarin crime lord, Fu Manchu. He had a few run-ins with the man and barely escaped with his life. He did, however, win the heart of the daughter and, at his request, gave her sanctuary in London, but his works were still in the Far East.

“After dinner, who cares about the spoon?" Charlie mocked the other on having gotten the daughter; why bother with the father?

“In your society, or rather in my mind, the extended family still matters.” Nayland smiled. “Even though my father-in-law would like to serve me to his tigers.”

-------

Yes, it is one of my fav here; involving at least seven heroes, if I may term them as such, and blend them into the long tale.....hopefully long, and see the result. I am a fav of Holmes, and my own version of Watson..... 

The HEROES RETURN Series had run on three tales, and this is the fourth. In my directory, there are six of it, of which two more are unfinished. 

Why SHELLY? I am a fan of SHERLOCK HOLMES. Read (and re-read) every book I could find.

Like EASTER, you never know what the Easter eggs may have inside. Mine is turning up wonderful.

Oh, I will be away this week, and please read on.

Tally Ho.

=

Preys & Predators IV; Monster and Witches Chapter 20

 

20.

Victor stepped towards the generator looking at it outside the lab. It was covered with the wrap there. He had not looked inside but stood there.

“The great interest in electricity as well as the effects of electricity on bodies—whether electricity might be the ‘spark of being’ that animates life.”  Victor was told by numerous mentors of the works. “We need to explore it more. The electricity currents work like our blood flows; it animates other workings.”

“Mary?” Victor mumbled to himself. He then shook his head. He felt himself drawn to the creation. He had called it his creation before; no name was given. It was Henry who named it. Henry loved it.

Henry, his aide, who was a simpleton and yet displayed more humanity in his works.

“Was I ……. The innate being here? I had life brought to it.” Victor asked himself. He was trying to do God’s work, and yet he was distancing himself from the real purpose of the work. Life was created by God, and yet with life, God did not forego its creation. It gave it life, and with life, the purpose of living it, with the mind to decide its action.

“I did that?” Victor pondered his thoughts. “When I created …… Mary, did I create life? Or was it a machine to be handled with the power on and off function? God… I am a monster if it was.”

“Mary was not the creation. It is not a machine. It was the work of … God through me.” Victor was shuddering in his mind. “I was given the opportunity to do it, and yet I did not see it.”

“God, I am …… God, am I mad? I am doing what is yours. I am truly the ………. monster here. It may be why I was unable to do it again.”

“God, I am sorry. Please accept me back into your fold.” Victor fell to his knees then. “I am a ……. Monster.”

“Master Victor, what is wrong?” It was Sven who saw him his knees there. “I heard you call out. Are you alright?”

“No, Sven. I betrayed God. I was …….” Victor looked at the man who had served his father for years. “I am a …….”

The scream echoed then, and Sven looked towards the mansion.

“The girl! She may be in trouble.” Sven rushed off to the mansion, leaving Victor still on his knees.

“Wait for me, Sven. I am coming too.”  Victor pushed himself up and followed Sven. They ran into the mansion and heard the eerie shrieks. It from the chamber upstairs. They rushed up and saw a dark figure floating out in a hurry. The duo made their way into the chamber and saw Rudolf standing there holding the young lady. Sven saw the man crouched there picking up what looked like a mass of flesh. He was without his rifle, but his part training taught him to charge forth.

Sven caught hold of Abel who was crouched there by the back of the neck and swung the other across the chamber. He was elderly, but his strength was still very much in him.

“Bastard!” Sven rushed after the fallen younger man when Rudolf stepped in between them.

“Sven! He is a friend.” Rudolf called out while he restrained the man. “He saved our lives.”

Sven stopped in his tracks and looked at Rudolf.

“What happened here?” Sven asked. “Are you okay, Sir?”

Brown stood there by the trees and watched the mansion. He heard the scream and then saw the two men running to the mansion. Part of him wanted to rush there, his constabulary training told him, but he stayed back. He stood there and saw another figure had rushed out from a distance. He recognized the figure as one of the constables.

“You are well trained, Sir,” Brown hollered out. Allen, who was the one seen by Brown, stopped there. He then approached Brown.

“Who are you? Wait, I know you. You were with the ……” Allen had stepped too close towards Brown and did not have any chance to avoid the other from grabbing him at the throat. Brown, with his enhanced strength, was to crush the windpipe of the other before any sound could be called out.

Allen fought free of the hold. He stumbled back and crouched there.

“Not so fast, Enforcer. I am a witch too.” Allen looked at the other. “I am not easily defeated.”

“Pardon me. Impudent pup.” Brown kicked at Allen at the face. “Marcos, grab him. Put a spell on him.”

“Huh?” Marcos called on the one spell he recalled. “Со врските на Тора, запрете го човекот. (By the binds of Thora, stop the man.)

Allen felt the muscles in his body tighten and was unable to counter the spell when Brown stomped on his face. The stomp broke his jaw and then his air passage.

“No incantations, witch man.” Brown pressed down on his feet. Allen slumped on his frame, and then Brown dragged him into the woods. Brown felt good then. The kill gave him an elated feeling.

“Was it needed, Enforcer?” Marcos asked when he saw the other dragged the body into the woods.

“Do not question my work, Novice.” Brown cautioned the other. “I knew of your spells. Do not try to hit me from the back. I know how to counter them all. We will meet now with Jae.”

When Brown arrived at the spot where Jae was last seen, he felt the uneasiness in his mind. He smelled blood there, and looked around. He saw the specks of blood and flesh. He looked at the oak tree and sensed it.

“Jae…” Marcos called out.

“Dispose of the body here. He is not one with us.” Brown turned toward Marcos. “There is danger here.”

“How?” Marcos asked.

“The woods are haunted.” Brown had used the term that others have said. He was not like any other. He was a witch man too. The witches worked with the spirits of the woods. He looked to the oak tree.

“Pardon us, golden tree. We have tasks to do.” Brown turned to look at Marcos.

“Used your skills again, Novice.” Brown told the other. “Or covered it with the leaves. The creatures here will devour the body. The task had become……. Hazardous.”

At that moment, Elizabeth stood at the corner, watching the others chain the constable to the clamps at the wall. Lilith had done her task as required.

“Constable, I think I saw a lady hurt there.” Lilith had approached Jeeves. “Please hurry.”

“I……” Jeeves was reluctant, but his call of duty made him follow her. His training as a witch was still the learning stages. Their walk was long but soon arrived at the alley. Jeeves was getting impatient and stopped the lady.

“Where are we going? Do I know you form somewhere?” Jeeves asked. He had tried to read the lady, but something was blocking him. He was a witch by training, and much he had to learn from the Warlock.

“We are there.” Lilith turned towards the constable. “You knew me before.”

Jeeves felt the hand on the back of his neck. The pressure there caused him to black out. Next thing when he was aware, he was chained to the wall. The place was damp and smelled of blood.

“Where am I?” Jeeves asked. He saw then the lady before him. She was Ms. Muriel.  “Ms. Muriel? Let me loose, please.”

“I cannot,” Elizabeth said.

“I will ……” Jeeves tried to contact the Warlock. “I……”

Jeeves was to call on the spell to break free but nothing happened. His voice was soundless.

“Your spell, witch man? I am afraid that is not possible. The Wiccan have placed a binding spell here in the basement. You are …… all alone.”

“Why, Ms. Muriel? I am not a threat to you.” Jeeves pleaded. “The Warlock will find me. He can reward you. Please release me.”

“Where is the lady I met?” Jeeves recalled meeting the other witch.

“She is not here. And I disliked witches. And especially the Warlock, well... I do not dislike you now. Maybe soon, then it will be hell to pay then.” Elizabeth smiled. “I wondered, where is my demon?”

“Beezer!” Elizabeth called out. “Where are you?”

“Here, Mistress. I am here.” Beezer appeared with the ragged look. “The creature got me, but I have not perished yet. Not yet…”

Beezer then collapsed on the flooring.

Preys & Predators IV; Monster and Witches Chapter 19

 

19. 

 

Brown stopped in his track to the mansion. He looked at the trail that he once took, leading to the creek, and there were the girls. It was a long time ago, and lust took over his needs. What he saw then was a group of nymphs; he called them that. He knew who they were but failed his duty then as the constable and indulged in the coven’s fun. He remembered not of the ritual but it was fun. The next thing he recalled was then shots and then being discovered by the others. He could not speak nor react. He saw them kill the girls and then leave him there to die. He was saved by the Wiccan, and made as a member of the new coven.

“Brown, your life is mine now. Serve me, and you will continue living. Leave me and you will die painfully in days.” Brown was told when the lady tended to his wounds. “I have restored your health but with a spell that binds you to me. Without me, you will be dead as in ……. dead.”

“I ……. I will not.” Brown recalled then struggling to sit up, but his body was not responding.

“Do not be stupid, Brown. You intrude upon my coven and lusted after them.” The lady told him.

“You were to be sacrificed but the others intervened. My girls killed and yet you were left for the same, but I was in time to save you.”

“The forest nymphs brought you here; my personal enclave in the woods.” The lady laughed. “Why you? You may ask and I shall tell.”

“Brown, I am not a fool. Your life is …… shall be mine to save. You will serve me well.” The lady smiled. “I sensed other threats in this town. These threats are not ……. Not all could I counter. One is a ...… creation not of man, but a monster. For you, I will create mine inside you. You will not be any man but a creation of strength. An Enforcer of mine. You will match the creation of that monster, yet you will look alive.”

“However, you cannot exist without me. I hold your essence and that will be mine to renew daily.” The lady smiled. “I am the better choice for you. I am the witch of Eastwick and soon to be the Wiccan.”

Brown touched his chest; there were no heart beats, but the feel was alike. He was kept alive by the spell that the Wiccan knew; renewed daily with the incantations, and his task was to serve the Wiccan. He practiced no spells as a member of the coven.

Brown saw Sven there with the one named Rudolf. Brown recalled his brief moments with the two, and then memories of them shooting the girls. He saw them argue, and then Sven left. It was then he saw the arrival of Victor Frankenstein.

“Rudolf, may I address you by that name? Mr. Spielsdorf is ….” Victor smiled.

“I am older but so are you. Yes, you may address me as Rudolf.” The older man smiled. “You do resemble your father. He calls me Red, but stay with Rudolf, please.”

“Are you back to look for ……” Victor asked.

“Yes, we are. And Lauren wanted to stay here so we have more time to search.” Rudolf smiled. “Why are you here?”

“I was to restore the mansion but …… have not met anyone yet. I was to ask Sven to assist.”

“Victor, is Mary with you here? You called for me just now.” Rudolf looked around.

“Mary? No…… She is still at the tavern. I came looking for Sven.” Victor smiled. He then moved the subject matter. “Rudolf, do you recall the ……. Creature then? Could it be still around?”

“Creature? I have not seen it. Why do you ask?” Rudolf looked at the other.

“I ……. It was just a thought. I will see to Sven now.” Victor walked towards the cottage. He found himself walking to the grave, and saw Sven there standing by it.

“Hello, Sven.”

“Oh, Master Victor.” Sven turned to look. Victor saw the tears that was on the cheeks of the elderly man. “I was not expecting you.”

“Is that Henry’s ……” Victor approached the grave. “I never seen it till now.”

“Yes, it is Henry’s.” Sven stepped aside for the other. Victor approached the grave, and noted the stones there.

“It is pretty, the stones. Was it your idea?” Victor asked.

“Huh? Yes. I wanted …… Henry likes the stones.” Sven was unsure of the words to say. He then looked at Victor. “Are we to …….”

“What is with the glass jar?” Victor leaned forward to inspect the jar in the ground. “Is that Henry I see there?’

“Yes, it is.” Sven looked at the grave once more. “I had it placed there to see him,”

“He looked so peaceful.” Victor smiled. “After …… ten years, and still …….”

“God is kind to him.” Sven smiled. “Victor……”

Sven addressed the other directly.

“Could you ……. restore Henry?” Sven asked. “You did for the …….”

“I do not know, Sven. I have done so many experiments then and thereafter, but I have no …… conclusive results. The creation ……. Mary was my first, and since then, none.” Victor sighed. “I knew not what, but it was all done at the lab. And now, it is …….”

“Master Victor, if I could restore the generator, would it help?”

“I do not know, Sven. Maybe but you told the parts are taken away or damaged.” Victor sighed. “I do not have the funds to do that and also the mansion.”

“Master Victor, I ……. I have the parts …… hidden. We could restore the power.” Sven looked at the man. “Please try to restore Henry.”

Victor was confused.

“Mary asked me to tell you. She is lonely and needed Henry back.” Sven said. “Please try, Master Victor. Give her back her love. Her life.”

“Mary……is not a human. She is a creation.” Victor sighed. “I am not sure how I can do it again.”

“Just try, Master Victor. She needs the union. We all do.” Sven stepped away. It was then when Rudolf joined the daughter in the mansion and was told that she could not find the runes.

“It has to be somewhere.” Lauren sighed. “I can feel it, but it is not here.”

“We are.” Lauren looked towards the voice. There were two demons perched on the window rails. “I am Tareek, and that is …… what is your name, minion?”Bifor.”

Rudolf rushed to his daughter and held her behind him. He had left the cross bow at the corridor but he held his gun at the belt. It was his service revolver: the Colt Navy Revolver with the iron cartridges.

“Come any closer and I will kill you.” Rudolf warned the demons. “Leave now.”

“Kill? I doubt we can be killed.” Tareek smiled. “You tried at the road, and here I am now. The last attempt …… well, it left me with an itch on my face but I can bear with it.”

“You……. You were at the road. I saw you …….” Rudolf drew out his gun.

“Got trampled? Run over? Whatever… I am here now.” Tareek smiled. “It is not that difficult to …… kill us, but many have tried and failed.”

“Die, demon.” Rudolf levelled the gun and fired at the demon. The bullet impacted the face, leaving a hole there, but the demon was laughing.

“You cured my itch. Thank you. Shall I redo your face now?” Tareek charged at the man. Lauren screamed and held out her right hand at the demon.

“Силата на Артемида, направи ја мојата цел вистина. (The strength of Artemis, do make my aim true.),” Lauren called on the ancient spell from the books. The form of an arrow was seen, and it was hurled then at the demon. The magic arrow pierced the demon in the chest and exited from the rear before it pierced the other demon and then dissipated into nothing.

“Arghh….” Both demons cried out and retreated to the ceiling.

“Lauren!” Rudolf called out and then held his daughter. “You …….”

“It was …… I am unsure. I just did it.” Lauren cried out. “I am unsure.”

“Do nothing. I will take care of these demons.” The voice came from across the chamber. It was Abel who had arrived and had his crossbow levelled at the demons.

“Perish in Hell, demon.” Abel released the iron arrow at the demon. It was aimed at Tareek but the demon pulled Bifor onto its path. The arrow pierced the demon in the chest, and it fell to the flooring. Tareek then fled the chamber leaving Bifor writhing in pain on the flooring. Abel stepped towards the demo, and with his other arrow, he pierced the demon in both eyes.

“You need to blind it or it will hunt you again,” Abel said. “To send it back to Hell, you need to remove its soul.”

Abel proceeded to stab the arrow in the chest cavity and tore out the heart inside. He then stomped on the heart, and the demon went still on the flooring.

“Yuck!” Lauren called out.”

“I am sorry there. It is the only way.” Abel shielded the demon carcass from the lady. “I will clean it up.”   

Preys & Predators IV; Monster and Witches Chapter 18

 

18. 

 

Inspector John Watson called for a gathering of the coven the next day. The gathered was numbered six of them, and with himself, the number added to seven. They met at the Inspector’s office. The coven consists of two of his constables, Jeeves, and Allen; novice witches. The others are the admin staff, Allie, the town morgue’s administrator, Carly, the Uni’s Dean Joseph Haller, Ms. Gertrude Miller, their trusted member to get the needed information from the town folks. The number seven for the warlock signifies power, perfection, and spiritual completeness, often used in spells for success, manifestation, and aligning the physical and spiritual realms. They will meet every full moon to commit to their coven tasks.

“My near accident was unexpected.” The Warlock looked at Allen. “What did you find out?”

“I checked. The coachman said he was not aware the horse bolted. It seems that he was …….”

“Stunned or lost in his thoughts? I am now more intrigued.” The Warlock looked away. “Only some witches could do that. Let it be for now, Allen. I will take care of it.”

The warlock then looked at Gertrude. She was dressed for riding; the tailored jacket with a long skirt to match. She had on a small hat with veil half covering her face.

“It was a fine task you did, Gertrude. I was intrigued by the arrival of Doctor Helsing, and you did a fine task of reading his mind.” The warlock smiled for the lady held taste to her dressing.

“Elementary, my Warlock.” Getrude smiled form behind the veil. “He was fulfilling. When he was asleep, I did what was needed, but there is much I have yet to get from him. He …….”

“A mind block? Most interesting. He was a surprised to come here.” The Warlock looked to the Dean. “How did …… he get invited?”

“I did not invite him. He came with a letter of introduction from the Dean of Steinback University and requested I allow him a session. I was declining but the letters came on regardless; notable names and institutions, and then came the hefty contribution to the …….”

“A huge bait for you with the Uni’s, low on funding with the town’s attraction having died.” The warlock smiled. “The Theology Society have their own sources of contributions but trickles of it was to yours.”

“Yes, Warlock. We are low in funds.” The Dean sighed. “I had to …… consent.”

“And Gertrude was to assist you.” The Warlock smiled. “She was ……. Should I say alluring to the Doctor?”

“I am a woman … a very persuasive woman.” Gertrude smiled. “I did what I could, but as I mentioned, there were many parts of him that I was unable to see.”

“Most intriguing this Doctor.” The Warlock looked to the others. “I had tried to read him myself, but like Getrude, he had barred me from some memories. Dean, do a more thorough check on his background.”

“Warlock, I was informed that the doctor was joined by two others, claimed to be his sons.” Jeeves reported in. “I am monitoring them.”

“The reason I called all of you in was the arrival of a group of strangers. An elderly lady and her five companions. I could not make out their visit, but ………”

“I tailed the lady to the home of Ms. Muriel.” Jeeves cut in and it was then the Warlock glared at him. Jeeves felt the tightening on his throat. He gasped to breathe.

“Novice witch man, do not …… ever intrude on my words, I am still the Warlock.” The leader warned Jeeves. “Now back to my words. I am concerned on their visit here.”

“Getrude, do your part on the Helsing. Jeeves, and Allen. I want them always to tail the group.” The warlock then looked away. “I will see to Doctor Helsing.”

“Warlock, what about ……” Jeeves was to ask.

“Leave Ms. Muriel alone.” The Warlock cut in. “She is my concern.”

At the tavern, the doctor was with his sons enjoying their breakfast. Kane was tasting the new baked pie and complained that it was not as tasty.

“Maybe the dog died this time.” Doctor Helsing smiled.

“Huh? What has that to do with …….” Abel was to say but then choose to push away the plate of pie. “I will take my tea…… plain.”

“Back to our reason here.” Doctor Helsing looked up from his cup of tea and viewed the area. They were the only patrons there, and the tavern keeper was at the back of the café.

“I think we are in the right place. My opportunity at the Uni was fulfilling. There is something here.” Doctor Abraham smiled, recalling his stay with the lady. She was enterprising with her approach, and when he was at rest, he felt her probing his mind. It was his works on hypnosis that allowed him to block his selected memories. A task he learned from a witch some time ago. He let her see what was unimportant.
“Father, please explain the reason we are ……” Abel asked.

“This town held a history of unusual events. The High Council have been monitoring the town, and its ripe for another visit.”

“The creature? I thought it died……. Went missing years ago.” Kane looked at the father. “Maybe the High Council have erred.”

“Never question the High Council, Kane. We are all sworn to serve the High Council. Your greats and us now. Both of you knew of the creature that was here, but there were other unreported events, like the witches. Yes, it was ten years ago, and I was told to investigate the possible new events,” Doctor Helsing explained. “The return of the prodigal son, the Spielsdorf, and the ……. Witches. Something is brewing here.”

“And it’s all going to happen soon.” Doctor Helsing sighed. “We need to be ready.”

“Let us move on, Father. We were also briefed on the events. For an update, we trailed the father and daughter to the mansion, as requested,” Kane said. “We should ……”

“Visit them,” Abel cut in. “I can go alone.”

“Yes, please do.” Doctor Abraham nodded, and thus cutting off Kane’s intention to object. “Kane, I need you to keep an eye on one named Victor Frankenstein. He is staying here at the tavern. I will do my own exploration.”

Their focus was then moved onto the group of guests who walked into the café. It was the two ladies with the four men. The elderly lady stopped their approach, and decided to leave the café.

“They are not eating here?” Kane asked.

“Probably the pie was not tasty.” Abel smiled and then excused himself to leave. The doctor took the same leaving Kane seated there alone. Somehow then, his appetite for the pie waned.

Outside the tavern, Wiccan Agathe gave her orders.

“Brown, take Jae and Marcos. Watch the mansion, and if you see Victor Frankenstein, keep tab on him.” Wiccan Agathe said. “Lilith, do follow me with Stefan. We will visit the Muriel’s. There is preparation to do.”

The group split up, and then Wiccan Agathe sensed her group was followed by the other from the café. She was unsure of who he was and could not sense their mind, which was why she took the group out of the café. The smell lingered in her.

The Wiccan proceeded to walk to the nearby café and took her breakfast there. While there, she saw the two constables standing nearby. One took off after Brown’s.

“Lilith, lure the other constable to the woods. We will need to question him. Bring him near Muriel’s house.”

“Would that be a risk?” Lilith asked. “He may know me. Or he may be witch like me. He may detect me then.”

“He is a witch, and more to that, your presence may attract him to follow you We are out of time. I cannot afford delays. More to it, I will give you a spell to expose your true self. He will follow you.” Wiccan Agathe handed the amulet to Lilith.

“As you commanded, Wiccan.”

“Do it. The Warlock suspects me, but he needs to be warned off, or we need to know more. He must not be allowed to stop us.” Wiccan Agathe said. “Lure him to the rear of the house.”

During that morning, Elizabeth approached the basement and saw the man she had incarcerated there. The demon stepped out of the darkness and approached the lady.

“Beezer, I have grown tired of him. Remove him from my sight.”

“Yes, mistress.” Beezer stepped towards the chained man. Doctor Edward saw the demon there.

“Free me of my pain, please.” The man pleaded. The demon held the jaws of the man with his right hand and shafted his left fist into the throat. There were no screams from the man; if there were, it was without any voice to call out. The man writhed in pain and then lost his ability to live on.

“Leave his body in the woods. Does it as if the creature got to him.”

“The creature? I thought ……” Beezer was puzzled.

“The creature lives on. It had remained hidden, but I could tell it is still here.” Elizabeth said. “Victor told me it never left the area. Its home is here.”

“Mistress, I cannot …….” Beezer was to explain its concern.

“No excuses. Just get it done.” Elizabeth left the basement. Beezer went to work on his task. He carried the body from the rear of the house, and with the spell of his own, he was not seen moving into the woods.

The spell work on the others but not onto the witches.

“Brown, look there.” Jae motioned to the other. He was looking at the trees, and saw the body dragged by the figure. “It looked like a …….”

“Demon,” Brown said. “That is a demon. Most unusual to see it here.”

“We will stay here for now.” Brown continued looking at the figure. He had seen that demon before; once when he was with the Wiccan. It was a long time ago, and the demon was snared by the Wiccan. It pleaded for be freed, citing that it was banished by the master. The Wiccan offered it freedom to serve another named Elizabeth Muriel.

“I could handle the demon.” Marcos took a step forward. He was a young novice in the arts like Jae but his over confidence tends to get him into binds.

“Not now, Marcos. Jae, watch the demon while I look at the mansion.” Brown motioned to the other member to follow him.

At the mansion, Sven and the Spielsdorf family took to explore the mansion for the runes. The father was with his crossbow while Sven was armed with the rifle. They went through the chambers and even the library.

“Lauren, do you recall …… could you detect the runes?” Rudolf looked at the lady. “It may ……”

“I cannot use my spells… yet,” Lauren reminded the father. “We need to do it this way.”

Rudolf nodded and continued his search there. Sven who was there saw the arrival of Victor Frankenstein. He excused himself and went to meet the young master.

“Master Victor, are you here to inspect the lab?” Sven asked. “I have not …….”

“No, I am not. I have also not gotten the people to repair the generator. I am here to ask if I can come over to stay at the …….” Victor looked to the mansion. “No, I want to stay with you. For a few days.”

“My place?” Sven was surprised. “It may ……”

“Sven, I will cut the chase here. My daughter, Mary Annabelle, is ……. Frightened, and she have dreams of the creation.” Victor sighed. “My creation… Mary. The one that Henry……”

“Please, Master Victor. Please do not mention Henry’s name. He ….” Sven lowered his head. “He lives on in me.” “I am sorry, Sven. Do you ……. I was thinking that the creation may …… Is she around?”

“Who? Oh, the creation.” Sven looked at Victor. “I do not ……”

“Do not deny me, Sven. I know that you knew of it. I need to find …… Mary.” Victor saw the movement in the mansion. “Who is in the mansion?”

“Spielsdorf, Rudolf Spielsdorf. He is here…with his daughter,” Sven replied. “They are here to pick up some left-behind items.”

“Rudolf?” Victor met the former yesterday. “What ……. Let them pick what they need. Sven, I need to meet the creation. Can you tell me where it is?”

“I …… I do not know. I have not seen the creation …… since.” Sven shook his head. He then looked hard at the young master. “Please leave her out. Mary is not… what you want now.”

“Mary? You called her Mary too. It was what Henry wanted to name …… it. Sven, I need to find Mary. She may be the link to my daughter’s …… dreams.”

“I do not know!” Sven lost his composure. “Please leave us alone.”

Sven stomped off in anger back to the cottage. Victor stood there watching the man leave. For a moment, his sight was averted to the trees nearby. He felt that he was being watched from there.

“Mary, see me. I am Master …… Victor. I am here to see you.” Victor called out loudly to the woods. He saw no movement and was then interrupted by Rudolf.

“Victor, can we talk?” Rudolf had approached the other.

In the woods, Jae was impatient, and upon seeing the departure of the enforcer Brown, he crept towards the demon location. Beezer, having carried the dead Doctor Edward there, dropped the corpse onto the root of the tree. The demon then looked at the tree.

“Golden Oak, I bid you to bury the mortal here.” The demon called on the spell that invokes the tree roots to uproot and then dragged the body into the ground.

“Do not be gentle, Golden Oak. Split it and sink it in.” The roots tore into the body, splitting it into portions, and then pushed it deep into the ground.

“Now bring me the intruder here.” The roots spread out and grabbed Jae, who was standing behind another tree. Jae had the tree roots entangled onto his limbs and then was dragged to the front of Beezer.

“Intruder, you are ……. Wait, you are a witch.” Beezer stood back. “A novice but still one with the arts.”

“Release me, demon. I will …… my Wiccan will hurt you.” Jae struggled with his bonds.

“Wiccan? I …… you mean there is one other in town. How was it I missed that?” Beezer smiled. “I thought the Warlock was the only one. The last few covens were defeated by him.”

“Wait, I can sense it now. You are with the Wiccan Agathe of Eastwick. She is here. I could not detect her earlier but the sniff of her presence lies in you.”

“Demon, if you knew of my Wiccan, then release me now. I will ……”

“Your Wiccan had me enslaved to one other. If I were still with Beelzebub, she would not dare to approach me. Anyway, I hold no alliance to either. However, you are here.” Beezer smiled. “You will do for me.”

“Perish this witch for me, Golden Oak.” Beezer called out. The roots tightened on Jae but he was strong.

“I am an Enforcer, demon.” Jae fought against the roots restraints but he was not a fully qualified Enforcer. His strength was still weak. The sound of bones cracked with the sight of blood spurting out.

“Argh……” Jae screamed out. The demon leapt at the witch man and shafted his right fist into the other. “I disliked loud throes of death.”

The fist reached in deep, and then stifled the witch man. The novice was split into portions and the ground parted to swallow it.

“Messy……Oops, a broken tooth.” Beezer pulled his right hand from the throat. His fingers were seen at the chest cavity, and he wriggled them before he pulled it out.

Beezer smiled and did not see the blow to its head. It fell forward onto the exposed roots. The rear of the head had cracked. It turned to look at who had hit it.

It was the creature.

Beezer then saw the right foot stamped onto its face.