Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) (00/38) Date: Thu, 9 Jun 2005 20:22:16 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU Hi Everyone, Yes, that's right...it's me. After a long hiatus, I'm back with more goodies! Of course, I've never stopped writing. Nick, Alyce and the Tucson Community continue to appear in the Dubois second series (which has added 50 entries since my last entry here). But about a year ago, I discovered my old notebooks from high school and college with the first series in it. And part of that set had some things I wrote/revised during FK's initial run way back when. (I had completely forgotten about what was in it. Imagine that....) Well, it seems that Nick did indeed know Dave (quite well actually) before "Trouble in Toronto". They ran into each other at least 6 times that I know of so far. (I'm still hauling through the notebooks as we speak.) Anyhow, this is the second meeting between them. It's called the Hunt. It involves Dave Dubois and a certain family curse that surfaces with a vengeance at the end of freshman year in high school. (This is why the Child comes later.) He and Nick spend a weekend in the Lower Valley. Fun stuff.... So read on and enjoy. Do send comments. Thanks David __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Find restaurants, movies, travel and more fun for the weekend. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/weekend.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07) (01/38) Date: Thu, 9 Jun 2005 20:24:18 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07) David J. Duncan Originally Written March 1986; Revised January 1994; Second Revision September 2004 Rating: R (language, violence, dark magic) Notes: This is from the first Dubois series. Some scenes (i. e: Nick’s initial flashbacks) appeared in “The Book”/ “Hearts of Darkness Part I.” (Dubois Second Series). The characters from Forever Knight are from Sony Tri-Star. The characters from Xena Warrior Princess belong to StudiosUSA and MCA. All other characters are mine. Introduction [Tucson, AZ, El Gato Negro Club, August 2007 (Immediately following “Genomex: 1982 (Dubois 2.83)”] Nick Miles (aka Nicolas de Brabant) writes….. The struggle between the forces of light and darkness continues eternally. There are those of us who are caught between them. Such is my fate. Such also is David Dubois’ destiny. Even as I continue on here in Tucson for my fifth year, I think of how we both have made our lives bearable largely due to the friends surrounding us. But alas, that almost didn’t happen for him…. As I discover more about his life, I wonder how Dave survived his teenage years. The war for survival against Anne Lichtenfeld’s ghost claimed important casualties among his family and friends. Yet those who stuck by him became stronger as a result. They are all down here now—or, as in April McKenzie’s case—will be soon. I am thankful that they could watch over him when Community affairs took me elsewhere. Watching Dave’s eternal struggle saddens me. While I’m proud to be his friend, his suffering weighs heavily on me. If only LaCroix and I had killed Lichtenfeld in the Lower Valley before she could have cursed him. If so, maybe none of this would have happened and a boy could have been spared the agony. Such was not to be and the Witch saw fit to make it so. Accordingly, she kidnapped his friends and dared him to return to the darkness to save them. She knew they could turn him to the light and sought to rid herself of them. Dave also knew there was no choice….He would save his friends or die trying. That is why I defied LaCroix and returned to Rowenshire. Dave’s burden is ours too despite what my former master believed. I stood by him that weekend and it was at that time, that I saw the first signs of the Child’s emergence. If only things had been different for us both…. Chapter 1 [Rowenshire, MA—November 1720] Fresh from a successful hunt, Nicholas and LaCroix returned to an inn in the center of the small town of Rowenshire, MA. They wanted rest but they discovered something else. Some one had set the inn ablaze, consuming their possessions in the process. LaCroix deduced the cause; his senses tracing something peculiar coming from the north. “Come, Nicholas!” He ran into the forest, leading the former Crusader toward cover. Once there, he took off into the night sky. The two vampires flew through the trees using them as cover from mortal eyes. Following the dirt road, they headed north. Within minutes, they spied a sizeable clearing. Landing there, the immortals discovered a meadow with waving grasses and oak trees off to one side. In the middle of the field, a single white painted house stood watch over the property. Upon closer inspection, they discerned a small plowed area behind the structure along with a barn. “The house is quiet, LaCroix,” Nick presumed. The Elder stretched out with his senses and agreed, “Indeed. Still, she’s close by.” He turned toward the woods in front of them. “Yes. Close by indeed and not alone. Be on your guard.” From previous experience, he knew what waited for them down there: a witches’ Sabbath. More than likely the local coven. Recalling what he had overheard from Nick’s conversation with the priest in the inn, he said to himself, They skulk and worship their insignificant demon. Nicholas, you were right in what you said to the priest. If the Lichtenfeld woman is a witch and knows of our existence, then we need to silence her immediately. They made their way down the forest path, subtly closing in on the festivities. Finally, they saw three people dancing around a bonfire uttering something in an unknown tongue. [“What are they saying?” Nick asked through their link.] [“I don’t know, mon filis,” LaCroix responded.] For almost an hour, they watched the events before sensing someone approaching. “Who?” Nick inquired, reaching out and pulling the intruder toward them. It was Father Ricard LaFontaine, the town’s priest. “Father?” he whispered. “Oui,” the priest whispered. “The townspeople are on their way up here with blood in their hearts. It is as I feared. This is a Sabbath. What do we do?” At that moment, the ritual stopped. Lichtenfeld looked toward them and invited, “Are ye there, masters? Show yerselves or I’ll have to take more drastic measures!” Summoning dark energies from the air around her, she let fly with two black fiery bursts, scoring the trees beside the three intruders. “That’s it!” the Elder hissed and moved out into the clearing followed closely by Nick. Lichtenfeld smiled coldly. She had hoped that her master would send the two vampires on this night. “We have yet to be properly introduced.” “Mistress Anne Lichtenfeld, correct?” Nick guessed. “Aye, my ancient ones. And ye are?” “Lucien LaCroix and Nicolas de Brabant,” LaCroix responded, watching her carefully. “And yer friend—ah, the good priest. Do ye know who yer companions are, Ricard LaFontaine?” the sorceress taunted. “Ye travel with dark creatures as well. Vampires, as they are called.” “With that, you signed your death warrant!” the Elder stated. “Nicholas, take the other two. This one’s mine!” Nick advanced on the two cultists. Unlike their mistress, they had no dark powers, settling for simply trying to overpower him. Within minutes, he had bested them both, willing them to sleep. “Watch them!” he told LaFontaine, zipping off to help his master. They are really vampires. Amazing. The Lord does work in mysterious ways. **** In the meantime, LaCroix advanced on the witch, challenging her to do something. He detested sorceresses and priestesses—whether they were of so-called “white” or “black” persuasions. As a Roman commander, he had authorized mass killings of her kind. Now, he would deal with her himself. “Ye should not be so confident, my dear Lucien!” she chided, blasting him with dark fire. Feeling the dark energy burning him, the vampire dropped to the ground. “Blast!” >From the rear, Nick bulled into her, disrupting her concentration and allowing his master time to regain his footing. “Ye shouldn’t have done that, Nicolas,” she advised, firing an errant energy plume from her hand. Faster than the eye could follow, the two vampires flew around, evading her blasts until they managed to wrench her arms behind her. With his belt, Nick bound her hands and stuffed a handkerchief into her mouth to prevent further mystical mischief. “Now to kill her,” LaCroix urged, bearing his fangs. “No wait!” Ricard protested. “Bring her before the townsfolk for proper judgment.” “And to be judged ourselves, I’d imagine?” the General doubted. “Forgive me if I doubt your intentions.” “The knowledge of what you are will remain a secret--one that I will take to the grave with me. I and the townspeople owe you both that much. But when this is over, you will need to leave here. Agreed?” the priest proposed. “It’s a deal,” Nick accepted. “Let’s get her back to town.” Even as they concluded this arrangement, a mob of Rowenshire residents approached them. Michael stood at the head of the throng. Approaching the quartet, he asked, “What is this? Did you see?” “A witches’ sabbat,” LaCroix noted, pointing out the still burning bonfire, a bloody knife and the two others still lying beside them. The crowd surveyed the scene. Not needing much evidence in any event, the people seized the man and woman on the ground as well as Lichtenfeld, and led them back toward town. __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Get on-the-go sports scores, stock quotes, news and more. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/mobile.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) (2a/38) Date: Thu, 9 Jun 2005 20:40:26 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU The Hunt David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 The “trial” was short and quick. With the evidence in clear view of everyone as well as the local people’s accounts, the three prisoners prepared themselves for the guilty verdict, which came with lightning speed. As they were led to the great oak in the village square, the condemned walked indignantly—not giving their persecutors any satisfaction. Reaching the spot, the great oak on the southern edge of the village common, the nooses were slung over two particularly heavy branches. Father Ricard offered to give last rites, but they vehemently refused. After her cohorts were dispatched, Lichtenfeld sat on a horse under the branch with the noose hanging about her neck. She glared at her neighbors for doing this to her. “Any last words, witch?” an older gentleman with snow-white hair asked. After they removed the gag, she cackled wickedly. “Ye can kill this body, but ye won’t kill my spirit. I curse ye all, yer friends, and yer families. To the two travelers yonder, much distress will ye find. Young Nicolas will seek answers splitting him from his companion. As for you, Ricard LaFontaine, I curse ye and yer family. When next they return here, they will know sorrow, be denied the love of home and hearth, the rejection of their neighbors, and that I will be waiting for them. In that time, a father’s greed will force his family and their friends into hardship. His oldest son will hate him. And as for that special child…ah, special indeed…I’ll split his soul in two and put him against all of ye!” “Do your worst!” LaCroix challenged. “I fear nothing of so-called curses and foul air!” “All right. Enough!” the old man cut in, spurring the horse out from under her. As she dropped, Lichtenfeld stared intently at the two vampires and at the priest before her eyes finally shut. The rope’s jerk snapped her neck, ending things quickly. “Burn her body and scatter the ashes about that foul place. We all agree to leave the meadow alone. Father, will ye bless the land?” the old man continued. “I can try,” the priest agreed. In a largely Protestant land, his little Catholic flock needed protection on all sides. “Meantime Nicolas and Lucien, I believe this settles my end of the bargain?” “It does,” LaCroix concurred grimly. “And thank you for your assistance.” “Thank you,” Nick added, shaking the man’s hand. “Despite your…sins, there is good in you, Nicolas. Keep seeking the light, my friend. God hasn’t forsaken you.” “I know…thank you, father,” Nick expressed before following his companion down the path and out of the villagers’ sight. Once in the woods, they took to the air, heading east in search of other prey…. __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Have fun online with music videos, cool games, IM and more. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/online.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(2b/38) Date: Fri, 10 Jun 2005 05:07:27 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 Chapter 2 [Hotel, Boston, MA—May, 1980] Nick woke up with a start. Wiping his hand across his brow, he felt the bloody droplets there. Why am I thinking of Lichtenfeld now? She’s long dead. This is ridiculous! He stared at the ceiling, noting that this particular flashback had cycled through his head periodically for the past several weeks. It’s not like this is my first trip back to the area since then. He shrugged, heading for the shower. After getting clean and a bottle of Grade-A cow, he’d be ready to get on with the day’s business. **** [Thirty minutes later] Nick stood in front of the mirror, inspecting his outfit. While he didn’t want to look too fancy, the white button down shirt, light blue slacks and matching blazer looked all right for a vacationing detective from Chicago. “Yeah. This works.” The phone rang. “Yes?” he answered. “Hey, Nick, it’s Nikki DiCosta. How was the flight in?” New England’s Elder inquired. The former Crusader grinned, recalling some of the experiences he had with the slender blonde former Castilian princess. “It was great. Thanks. Are we set for ten?” “Oh definitely,” she replied with a slight lilt to her voice. “I’m waiting for you here at the Captain’s Hearth. Remember how to get here, Corazon?” She never quits. He chuckled, thinking of all the competition between Nikki and Janette over the centuries for him. They had met right after Janette had left him, ending their 97 year marriage. For the next twenty years, they hung out together, enjoying each other’s company. Because she made him relish being a vampire, LaCroix approved and even encouraged her to be around. Too bad Nikki’s presence had the opposite effect on Janette. Predictably, the two ladies of the night had their fights over the former knight. Some of the fights turned really nasty, disrupting the balance of Communal affairs. In the end, Nick decided to stay away from Nikki for a half century at least. However, business drew him back to her. “I do.” “And you’re still doing the…animal?” she wondered, making a face as she said it. “That’s right,” he agreed, smirking as he sensed the vibes coming from her. “And Janie lets you do it, eh?” she teased. “Janette and I haven’t spoken in some time actually,” he pointed out regretfully. I really need to get back to Toronto and see her. “Oh perdona mi! Janette and you haven’t spoken in a while? Sounds to me like someone’s finally smartening up! 10:00, my brave knight. I’ll see you then with the…low test,” she concluded, hanging up. Maybe Nikki’s stirring up the feelings? Come on, Nick, get a hold of yourself! “Maybe a drive around the city would be good for me.” Locking the room, he got into the rented Chevy convertible and pulled out into traffic, letting his thoughts wander and his mind relax. **** [Captain’s Hearth—10:00 PM] Nick walked into the dimly lit tavern perched over the water on its own dock. Smoke filled the air as humans and vampires enjoyed their drinks in their groups; neither side paying much attention to the others’ glasses. In his current role as a bookstore dealer in Chicago, he didn’t get back to the east coast as much as he would have liked. Seeing the sights of Boston made him want to do that. This, however, dampened that a bit. He felt a tap on the shoulder. Turning, he saw Nikki standing there with a quirked eyebrow and a cigarette in her right hand. “Not bad for fifty, Nick,” she remarked, inspecting every inch of him. “Glad to see you.” “And I’m glad to see you,” he agreed truthfully. “Although, I sense it’s not exactly all pleasure.” “It could be, mi Amor,” she suggested playfully. He sighed. “Nikki, remember the last time.” “Oh, Nick, Janie’s not here. Lighten up. Have some fun before we have to deal with our affair,” she urged. “Nikki, work first,” he countered, giving her a serious look. “I have some questions myself and they’re tied to here.” “Really?” she asked, feeling intrigued by his last statement. “Well then, let’s get your moo-juice and get on with it, shall we?” He rolled his eyes at the terrible pun as he followed her into the back room and watched her close the door. “Nice office.” She smiled. “It’s good for private conferences such as this one.” She took a deep breath. “As much as I wish this was for pleasure, Nick, it isn’t. We have a serious situation brewing to the west of here.” Recalling his dreams, he asked, “West? As in Springfield? Worcester? Northampton?” “You’re getting warm,” she declared, walking over to a wall map of Massachusetts. “Rowenshire. An old friend of yours makes her presence felt again.” “Lichtenfield? But she’s imprisoned on the land! She won’t be a factor until a LaFontaine moves back there. None of them would be foolish enough,” he protested. “Curses and legends are so easily dismissed by mortals, my Dear. You know that as well as I,” she pointed out. “A descendant, Stuart Dubois, did so.” Nick rubbed his head, knowing that if he were mortal, there’d be a headache right about now. “It’s a big white house,” he realized. “You know? And you did nothing? Nicolas, you should have let us know!” she lectured him, letting her eyes change. He shook his head, realizing the whole story. “I was at a colleague’s funeral two years ago in Amherst. His grandson told me a story about a glowing lady who killed him in the house.” “Si. That boy is the oldest son, David Dubois. You know what that means, Nick?” she asked. “He’s the accursed one,” Nick stated. “I told his grandmother to get him out of there.” “The family left. It didn’t work,” she informed him. “You know Gregory Milton?” He nodded, recalling the former nineteenth century English patrolman. “I didn’t see him here. Usually, he would be talking to us.” “Usually, he would. He is up in Amherst, watching the situation. Nick, the ghost has followed the boy and has appeared at several very public places including the school and at a theater in Ware,” she reported. “According to Gregory, the darkness grows in him. He fights it and is trying to develop a normal life. How long can any teenager hold out against this witch? Nick, you and LaCroix defeated her. We need you to deal with the ghost before she can cause the boy to mutate into her creature.” “He was already doing that two years ago,” he remembered. “But I’ll see what I can do. I can drive to Amherst tonight if need be.” “No. He’s coming here actually,” she noted. “It seems the boy has a flair for journalism. He won a prize in a state contest. The ceremony’s at the Boston Museum of Natural History tomorrow night. Stay close to him, Nick.” He concurred, “I’ll do that. And if the ghost strikes?” “We deal with it even if it means the Dubois boy’s life,” she ascertained. If it comes to that, Lorenzo, forgive me. He guzzled the cow blood down and mused over things for a while. They talked until dawn and then, he ended up staying with her for the day. But one thing was for sure. The dreams weren’t random. They were warnings and it seemed they were about to come true. I hope David can hold his own. I don’t know how he’d do it but I hope he does. __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Get on-the-go sports scores, stock quotes, news and more. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/mobile.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) (03A/38) Date: Fri, 10 Jun 2005 05:13:01 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 Chapter 3 [Amherst—Janet Dubois’ house 2:30 PM the next afternoon] Unaware of the planning in Boston, Dave stood in front of the mirror in his grandmother’s bedroom. Inside of his stomach, he felt the butterflies churning away. Terrific. Leave it to me to win this award. Frankly, I wish that one of the seniors had gotten it instead. Ah well, go with it. He straightened his tie, making sure it looked all right. “There!” He also worried about the ghost. It would be like her to pull something today. He had already reminded his friends to be extra careful. In addition, they agreed to check on his grandmother while he was gone. “Dave, come on!” his grandmother called. “Coming!” he replied, heading down the stairs to find Dr. Alvarez, the superintendent, Mrs. Colavitto, his journalism advisor and the former’s daughter, Karen, waiting for him. “Sorry! I wanted to make sure that I looked okay.” “You’re fine,” Dr. Alvarez assured him. “We thought you’d run away on us.” “Remember, this is a proud moment for all of us,” Mrs. C. told him. He nodded. The story about his friends in Kansas had received praise from most of the major wire services. “Karen, you should be there too.” “Someone’s got to watch the store, right? Besides, Daddy will be with you,” his best friend assured him with a warm smile and a rub on the shoulder. “I’ll want all of the details.” “Is that you, your sister or our leader there speaking?” he teased. “Maybe all three. Give yourself some credit, Chief. Knock ‘em dead!” Karen declared. “On that note, Amigo, we need to get going. Boston’s two and a half hours away. Banquet starts at 7,” Dr. Alvarez reminded him. Janet grinned warmly at him. “This is the capstone to a great first year, Dave. After everything that’s happened to us, you’re due.” “I suppose,” Dave agreed. Seeing the others’ eyes shining at him, he managed a smile. “But this is a team award. Clear?” “Fine. As long as you remember that your name’s on it, Pal,” Karen retorted. “Go on. We’ll be waiting.” Following her father’s lead, the anxious teen headed to his station wagon and they took off down Route 9, heading for Belchertown and the Mass Pike. Still, his nerves continued to eat at him. Just let everything be all right! ***** [Rowenshire, Old Dubois House] Even as Dave worried, activity several miles to the north was backing those feelings up. North of the old town of Rowenshire, his longtime adversary planned her revenge. Since their last encounter three months earlier, she had laid in wait, watching her target and his friends. Those brats give him hope! NAY! I won’t have it! As long as Dave was there to protect them, she determined to watch. With his absence came opportunity. Perhaps they give him strength but they’re also fine bait as well. She grinned. “Sunset comes and with it, I fly!” A growl came from the Lower Valley. “Yes, my Sweet, yer comin’ too! I wouldn’t want ye to miss this fer anything!” the ghost vowed. ***** [Inside of the museum] Knowing that he wouldn’t be able to get inside for the banquet prior to sunset, Nick pulled some strings to stay in the curator’s office. Willie’s a good friend. Thankfully, he didn’t ask a lot of questions. As he waited for the event to begin, he scanned some of the colonial histories to refresh his memory of previous events. As he flipped through the pages, the events from Salem Village came to his attention once more. Good thing the scholars blame everything on urgot. If they really knew there were dark witches in the area, they’d have a panic on their hands. Over the years, he had encountered several types of mystical practitioners—both of the light and dark arts. The people wouldn’t understand. But there was something else. Something about this location. The building reeked of dark magic for some reason. Then his mind seized on the reason as it flashed back….. __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Stay in touch with email, IM, photo sharing and more. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/stayintouch.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) (03B/38) Date: Fri, 10 Jun 2005 05:14:25 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 [Boston, MA—November 1720] Nick and LaCroix landed in an alley. For much of the previous three nights, they had made their way east, stopping only to feed on occasional victims in Worcester and along the post road. Now they needed a base if only for a little while. “Perhaps the inn will have accommodations,” the General suggested. “Come, Nicholas, sunrise isn’t far off.” Eager for a good bed, the former Crusader followed his master. Once inside of the two story structure, they headed for the bar. “We need lodgings. Where is the innkeeper?” LaCroix pointedly asked. “I’m he. Jacob Bartough is my name. And ye are?” Bartough requested. “Lucien LaCroix and Nicholas Chevalier,” the General replied, surveying the area. “Thank ye, Masters. Two pence gets ye a room,” the innkeeper agreed. “Thanks,” Nick expressed while taking their room key and heading upstairs. Letting them into the room, he observed, “The room is as spartan as always.” “The décor doesn’t matter, Nicholas. The room serves its purpose,” LaCroix reminded him, settling onto one of the two beds. “Rest now. After that business with the witch, I should like to take a few days here and sample the local fare.” Nick looked out the window toward the square. For some reason, the town had linked it off with a chain barricade and built an enormous cross in its center. Around the perimeter, two priests poured holy water. “LaCroix, look! What could that be?” The elder vampire sighed, wanting only to sleep but decided to indulge his son. Seeing the cross right outside the window made him stiffen and scowl. “The superstitious fools seek to protect themselves from their imagined demons and devils, I’d imagine. Close those shutters, Nicholas, and get to sleep.” **** The following night, Nick headed out to take a closer look at the curious site. As he approached, he felt repulsed by the holy water on the grass. In a curious paradox, he felt attracted by the cross. Perhaps a remembrance of before. He smiled remembering the Maid’s faith in God and him while they were in the donjon. Despite the holy trappings, the site emanated both good and evil vibrations, as if a conflict for it still went on. “What is this?” he asked aloud to nobody in particular. “Can I help ye, sir?” a voice asked. He turned to see the two priests from the night before standing there with pails of holy water. “I just had some questions.” “About this place? Feel free to ask,” the elderly priest replied, as he set about his work. Nick took a couple of steps back to avoid the effects of the holy blessing materials. “Why are there such elaborate measures being taken? Is this a shrine?” The second priest looked at him darkly. “Nay, sir! This is a wicked foul place. We seek to cleanse it with God’s holy symbols and purification!” “Foul place?” the traveler asked, recalling his recent experience with the coven. “As in demons?” “Aye! And them witches from Salem Village! Satanic rituals were held on that very spot!” the younger priest continued. “Calm yerself,” the elder clergyman commanded. “Those were in years past. The people of Boston drove them away, destroying most of the foul gathering back in ‘93. There were other incidents around the colony. Who knows what lurks in the western hills? That harlot Rebecca Lichtenfeld may have survived there!” Who knows indeed? “Did you say Lichtenfeld?” “Aye! Why?” the old man inquired. “The name’s familiar is all. Perhaps a story I heard in Springfield. Good night, my friends,” Nick declared, hustling away. As he did so, the priests eyed him suspiciously but made no further issue of their presence. **** [Room] Nick rushed back into the room and closed the door quickly. LaCroix looked up with disdain at his emotional entrance. “You must learn to control yourself, Nicholas. One might think you had just seen a ghost.” “No but I may have heard of one,” Nick told him. “I discovered what the spot was down there.” “You are always too curious. Yes I know you spoke to the good men of the cloth. Do tell,” the General taunted. “There was some sort of coven event down there. And a woman named Rebecca Lichtenfeld was involved,” the former Crusader reported. “It happened in 1693.” “Really?” LaCroix asked, fighting his amusement but yet feeling intrigued as well. “That name is familiar.” “The witch in Rowenshire, LaCroix. The one they hung a week ago. That’s her name!” Nick stated. “Really, Nicholas, calm yourself. We are fine. I keep telling you there are no such things as demons and devils. Still, with the priests blessing this area, we should move on. Thank you for the report. Now come, we head south.” “Actually, LaCroix, I’d like to head west. Can I catch up with you in Providence?” Nick requested. “Nicholas, remember what the priest said? Don’t go back there,” LaCroix reminded him. “I have to! He needs to know!” With that, Nick was gone, flying into the night. The General hissed through his teeth. Still he had warned the boy and if the latter flew into a trap, then so be it. However, if those pathetic villagers hurt Nick, they’d find the younger Lichtenfeld a walk in the park compared to him…. __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Find restaurants, movies, travel and more fun for the weekend. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/weekend.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(04/38) Date: Sat, 11 Jun 2005 07:54:50 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 [Library, Museum—1980] Nick snapped back to reality, realizing the significance of his feelings. “That old square is part of this building!” He clapped the book shut and slid it back onto the shelf. As he hustled, he saw that the writers were entering the banquet room. Willie Greenberg, the curator, approached him. “Nicholas, is there something wrong?” “There could be,” Nick replied. “I have a question concerning the layout of this building. I remember seeing pictures of a giant cross in this part of the city.” Having known Nick’s true nature since the fifties, the elderly curator nodded and leaned close to him. “Just pictures?” he whispered. Seeing the vampire shrug, he continued, “Feeling uneasy are we? You should be with all of the…umm…water on the ground under the concrete.” “Yes,” Nick declared, looking into the room. “So where was the cross?” “More importantly, where was the Spot?” the curator asked. “The podium if the records are correct. Why?” He shook his head. “Maybe nothing. Maybe a lot. Keep your eyes open, Willie.” Willie stared at his friend, knowing that look. “Who is it?” “Just keep your eyes open. That’s all I can tell you,” Nick advised, heading to his seat. Now what is going on? I wish Nick would tell me when trouble’s in my facility. With that, the curator headed for his seat. **** [In the room] Making sure to arrive an hour early, Dr. Alvarez took Dave on a tour of the museum. Knowing the freshman’s interest in history, he banked on the artifacts having a calming influence on the younger man. For his part, Dave did enjoy the exhibits and artifacts. He took careful notes in his program, hoping to get a chance to interview the curator at some point. Finally, the time came when they had to enter the banquet area. As they walked in, Dave felt really out of place, seeing all of the tuxedos and trappings. “I wish I had known,” he whispered to the superintendent. “Don’t worry about it,” the elder man replied as they put their name tags on. “We’re fine.” Dave took a long look around the area, trying to sort out who was who. For some reason, he started to feel anxious. Then he noticed that the mark on his hand was glowing. Oh great! Why here? As they moved closer to the dais, he felt as though someone was sticking pins in his back. “Dave, what is it?” Dr. Alvarez wondered. “I don’t know but it’s the You Know What,” Dave whispered, showing him his hand. “Why here?” He collapsed into a chair. “The garbage is really bad here.” “David?” Nick inquired, approaching them. He couldn’t help but feel the vibrations from across the room. The teenager glanced at him. “Dr. O’ Connor, what are you doing here?” Remembering his former identity as an archaeologist, Nick slipped into the role without missing a beat. “I was reading up on some things in the library this weekend and heard that you were winning an award tonight. I hope you don’t mind if I’m here.” “Of course not. Grandpa Alvaro would be thrilled that you could be here,” Dave concurred. “Oh by the way, Dr. Nicholas O’ Connor, this is Dr. Ricardo Alvarez, the superintendent for the Amherst Public Schools. Dr. Alvarez, Dr. O’ Connor, a friend and colleague of Grandpa Alvaro’s.” “Really? It’s an honor,” Dr. Alvarez agreed, shaking Nick’s hand. “From what Dave says, he was quite a man.” “He was that,” Nick replied. “There’s something else though. How are you holding up otherwise if you get my drift?” “It’s okay, Dr. O’ Connor. Dr. Alvarez has met her face to face,” Dave indicated, feeling another spasm coming on. “By the way, is there something about this place I should know about?” “Should there be?” Nick asked, not wanting to tell the teenager any more than he had to. Dave pulled his hand ever so slightly out of his pocket, revealing the glowing mark there. “You tell me.” “Dave, is that wise?” the superintendent asked, looking around. “We could be in big trouble if this is any sign,” Dave insisted. “This isn’t the greatest place in the world for you to be if that’s what you mean,” Nick informed him. “That’s another reason I stayed around for tonight. Yes, this place is tied to her.” “I’m more worried about what’s going on back in Amherst,” Dave mentioned, as he saw the big wigs starting to collect around the high table. “Let’s find a table. Dinner’s about to begin.” **** [A/N: Here's where a couple of Smallville refs start coming in. The show belongs to DC and the WB network....] [An hour and a half later] Dinner went very well. The chicken dish was very well done and the conversation was pleasant. Dave enjoyed listening to the others, trying to learn from them. When someone asked a question, he answered it, noting key points about the museum and the Lionel piece. Of course, he made sure to mention Karen’s name in connection with the latter. I wish she were here. Seeing the young man’s face dim a bit, Nick asked, “You should have asked for an extra ticket. The museum would have given you one.” “We didn’t want to impose,” Dr. Alvarez replied although he knew that his daughter wanted to be there too. Dr. O’ Connor has an excellent point. Besides, she could keep Dave more upbeat. “I’ll be giving her the play by play when we get back,” Dave informed them. Nick smiled. “See? The aspiring journalist gets an opportunity. You’ll be fine.” Seeing the Master of Ceremonies walk up to the podium, he indicated, “It’s time to begin.” “Good evening, everyone,” the heavy set balding man with the white beard announced. “Our thanks to the Museum of Natural History for allowing us to honor our finest college and in one case, high school, journalists tonight. These young minds are our future so let’s give them their due, shall we?” After some polite applause from the audience, he took the first envelope and started in…. Let’s just get through without a problem. Dave glanced toward the northwest, feeling as though the crap were about to hit the fan there even as he dealt with the ‘Lichtenfeld Link’ in their current location. Likewise, Nick kept carefully watch over the younger man, watching for other signs of supernatural behavior and dreading if he would have to carry out his charge. __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(05/38) Date: Sat, 11 Jun 2005 07:57:07 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 Chapter 4 [Amherst High School—White Knight newsroom] Even as everything unfolded in Boston, the White Knight’s advisor, Candace Colavitto, set up the television in the school’s “newsroom,” a converted lounge with several proofing tables, two typewriters as well as other equipment. “That should do it.” “I bet Dave’s getting really nervous right about now,” Garth Singleton presumed. “He’ll deal with it,” Steve Petersen replied. “He’s surrounded by historical stuff. Talk about a perfect place for him.” “Let’s hope he gets through his speech,” April McKenzie noted. “Dave was so nervous today. Did his grandmother get him calmed down?” Karen shook her head. “Dave wished that I could be there with him and Daddy.” “Too bad the museum didn’t give you both passes,” Frank Landers remarked. “You’re co-writers on the story. I surprised Dave went instead of you.” “He wanted me to go but Daddy and I felt receiving this award might give him an emotional boost. At least, we’ll get to see his part.” Mrs. Colavitto flipped on the TV. Seeing the ceremony starting, she told them, “Take your seats. The fun’s about to start.” She struggled to contain her pride for both the girl next to her and the young man about to step to the dais. Then the lights went out. “What happened?” April wondered. She shivered. “Why’s it so cold in here all of a sudden?” Karen looked around as she felt the hair standing up on the back of her neck. “Guys, let’s go. NOW!” At that point, the door slammed shut and things started flying around the room. “We’re trapped!” Garth realized, trying to open the door. “Aye! How right ye are!” the ghost announced, as she appeared in the darkness. “We have a date, my Pretties!” Telekinetically, she made them all float in the air. “It was time we should meet.” The teens stared incredulously at her, having heard the stories of her tactics. “Why can’t you leave him alone?” Karen demanded. “He’s done nothing to you!” The attacker retorted, “Be quiet!” She shot dark fire at the girl, making her spasm and go limp. “There! Now ye’ll sleep!” “You killed her!” Garth presumed. “Nay. Yer all too valuable as bait! She most of all. I think some time together would be good!” she told them. “Dave won’t go there!” April pointed out. “Na unless I give ‘im reason, Missie. Yer it! My darling Child has a weakness. That’s you all especially Miss Mouthy there. I have ye. He will come for ye. What else is there? Back to my home, ye all go!” With that, the teenagers vanished. “What have you done? Bring them back!” Mrs. Colavitto demanded. The Witch scowled. “I don’t need ye! Besides, ye’ll tell the message!” She grabbed the blonde woman by the neck and scalded her with a dark blue flame. “Nay. Ye’ll suffer fer a while!” Then after listening to her victim scream, she dropped her to the floor. “Make sure to get it right.” “G…go to Hell,” the injured woman hissed. “I’ve already been there, Sweet, and I’m back,” the spirit informed her. “Perhaps a sign of my presence would be good?” A spell reduced the newsroom to a disorganized mass of kindling. Pointing at the floor, she burned her mark into the linoleum. “There! Now my dear boy will know an’…” Seeing the fire demon at the window, she asked, “Aye, Sweet Thing, tell me.” The other nudged its head toward the east and bellowed something. The Witch focused and she floated around the room in ecstasy. “Can it be? My boy found it!” She cackled in delight. “F…found wh…what?” Mrs. Colavitto whispered, feeling the sick burning within her. “The place where my sire and mother met! The place where they made me! For three hundred years, I’ve wondered where that was! The fool priests blessed the spots where my sisters once met so we could na find ‘em! But his aura lights the place like a pyre!” Lichtenfeld cackled darkly. “Suffer, Insolent One! Fer on this night, I move to reclaim what’s mine!” She vanished into the night. As she did, the lights snapped back on and the temperature returned to normal. Mrs. Colavitto forced herself to sit up and gathered her strength. Reaching the wall phone, she dialed the 8 and a phone number. “Janet? This is Candace…Colavitto.” “Candace, what is it?” Janet wondered. “You sound hurt! Is everything all right? Where are the kids?” “They’re gone….The Witch was here, Janet. David was right. I need help. Can you get over here?” the advisor requested. Janet agreed, “I’ll be right there!” Grabbing her coat, she hurried out of the house and drove over to the school. __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(06/38) Date: Sat, 11 Jun 2005 07:59:27 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 [Seven minutes later] Janet rushed into the newsroom to find everything askew. She felt the familiar heaviness in the air and could almost smell the acrid odor from the old house. The burned symbol in the floor dispelled any remaining doubt. My God! “Candace!” The teacher wheezed as she tried to stand. “I…should have listened.” “Listened to what?” Janet asked. “The museum…where David is….tonight,” she gasped, collapsing onto the floor. “Is…demonic spot….It’s where her parents were…joined…and she was conceived there.” “She’s going after him then. You said she took the others?” Janet inquired. The injured woman nodded. “Y…yes, she did something to Karen and then she said something about spending time at her place….” Janet winced. “She’s going to make Dave go to her. And he’ll do it too!” “Where’d she go?” the advisor whispered. The nervous grandmother told her, “She’ll be in Rowenshire by dawn. First though, she’ll head for Boston. Poor Dave’s about to get a shock. I hope he can handle it.” Then as she helped the other woman into a seat, she noticed the scorch mark on her neck. “Candace, did she burn you with a blue flame?” “Yes. What is it?” She coughed and shuddered. Janet sighed and bowed her head. “Dave’s really going to feel guilty now.” “Why? The doctors can deal with a burn.” Janet shook her head. “It’s not just a burn. Did she say anything about making you suffer?” “That’s right, she did! Why? What is it?” Mrs. Colavitto wondered. “Her cancer touch. There’s nothing that can be done,” Janet remarked, recalling Lorenzo’s death. “Cancer touch? You mean like his grandfather?” “Exactly. She’s marked you. Well, this can’t be helped now. Let’s get you to the hospital. Dave’s going to want to see this when he gets back,” Janet assessed, shutting the door behind them. As she helped her friend, she mused, There’s going to be Hell to pay. I wouldn’t want to be in that place this weekend. Oh, Dave, be careful! __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(07/38) Date: Sun, 12 Jun 2005 04:50:54 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 Chapter 5 [Boston] Meantime, the ceremony moved along as prize after prize was handed out. People got up, accepted their awards and took their allotted three minutes to thank Mom, Dad, the family dog, etc. before returning to their places. With each speaker, Dave grew increasingly nervous. For some reason, he could hear a ticking in his head, as if a giant clock were counting down minutes of some kind. Cool it. All right? “And now, our last award: the best high school article in the state. I must say this one is the most insightful piece I’ve seen in some time. The piece is called “The Luthor Partnership: A Testament to Time and Endurance” and it was done by Amherst High’s Karen Alvarez and David Dubois. David is here to accept the award on their behalf. David?” “Go on,” Nick whispered. “Congrats, Amigo,” Dr. Alvarez expressed. Dave stepped up onto the dais. Now the weird vibrations grew really intense. Around him, he heard a strange chanting of voices and saw sparks as if from a bonfire flying around himself. Nick sensed something coming from the staging as well. It is the Spot! And I just sent him up there! Of all the stupid things! Shaking himself from the daydream, Dave said, “Thank you, sir. I know Karen would appreciate that.” “You’re welcome. Would you like to say a few words?” the Master of Ceremonies asked. “I would.” Facing the group, he smiled and collected his thoughts. “First, I would like to congratulate the other winners tonight on a super performance yourselves. Now, as for this award. It’s the first time I’ve ever won anything in my life so forgive me if I’m at a loss for how to react except to thank the judges. I also accept this award for what I feel is the best high school and the best group of friends—from the students all the way up through the administration. Dr. Ricardo Alvarez, the superintendent, in fact, is here tonight with us. Thanks, Dr. A., for a wonderful environment. Mrs. Colavitto and my close friends on the White Knight deserve thanks too for their support. And then I wanted to thank my grandmother, Janet Dubois, and my grandfather, Lorenzo Alvaro, for their inspiration in my work. Last but not least, there is my collaborator on this project, Karen Alvarez. What can I say about her except that she’s the best friend a guy could want in so many ways. She inspires me. Needless to say, it’s an honor to share this award with her. Thank you very much, everyone.” At that moment, the air turned chilly. “What?” the Master of Ceremonies wondered. Dave glanced at Nick who nodded back. “We have a party crasher. Come out, Lichtenfeld!” “Lichtenfeld?” the MC asked. “As in…?” “As in the spot you’re standing on,” Nick declared. In response, the ghost appeared, “NAY! It is YE who crashes the party! Ye who deny MY KIND!” “Look, you crazy harpy! You’re the one RUINING MY LIFE! I’m finally getting some credit and you’re screwing it up! What is your deal?” Dave demanded. “Impudent Child!” Lichtenfeld spat, firing a dark blast at him. Dave ducked, tackling the MC out of harm’s way. “Stay down!” he hissed. “Is that a witch?” “It was about 260 years ago.” “You mean as in Rowenshire?” “Yup. She’s bad news. STAY DOWN!” Dave ordered, getting back up. “What is it with you? Not even you would be brazen enough to come here!” “Answer his question!” Nick demanded. “Nicolas? Ye too?” the Witch asked, a giant grin forming on her face. “Ah! Ye should know! Tell ‘em ‘bout this place!” “What? Dr. O’ Connor, what is it? What is this place?” Dave inquired. Suddenly, the table spontaneously burned in dark fire. “My birthplace, Dear Boy! Where I entered yer world!” Lichtenfeld bragged, cackling. “And I have ye both to thank for helpin’ me to find it!” “I’ll have to remember to quote you in the write up when I get back,” the teen deadpanned. “Aye. If ye have an apparatus to use!” she taunted. “What? DAMN YOU! What have you done?” Dave countered. “Calm yerself. I just took yer friends fer a wee trip home. If ye wish to know more, meet me at the gallows tree on the edge of Salem Village at the stroke of midnight. Don’t keep me waiting, my Boy! An’ I expect ye there too, Nicolas,” she noted before disappearing in a flash of dark light, cackling wickedly in her wake. “Is she…?” the MC asked fearfully. “You can get up. She’s gone,” Dave assured him impatiently, taking the prize and stalking back down to the table. “She did something to them. I know she did something!” “Calm down,” one of the judges urged. Dave glared wickedly at him. “Calm down? CALM DOWN? I have news for you. This ain’t some woebegone spirit playing tricks. This one’s the real deal. Now, if you all don’t mind, I have a date with her. Dr. O’ Connor, I need a lift. Dr. Alvarez, you’d best stay here.” “What? No way, Dave! I’m not about to let you go traipsing off to Danvers without me at that time of night! Who knows what you’ll find there?” Dr. Alvarez countered. “Considering how she was carrying on, I’d imagine this place is just as bad,” Dave argued. Seeing the look by his grandfather’s friend, he added, “I presume I’m correct?” “The gathering she spoke of occurred here,” he agreed. “Look at the stage where you were standing.” Dave saw the scorch marks right where his shoes had been. “What the hell is that?” He jumped back up on the stage and found the spot where the table had burst into flames. There was the figure eight on its side. Her sign but the odor was slightly different. “She didn’t do this. Something or someone else is behind this,” Dave noted grimly. “We’d best get to Danvers, Dr. O’ Connor.” “I’ll drop him by your hotel when we’re done,” Nick promised. “I’ll get an update on Amherst while you’re gone,” Dr. Alvarez promised. As the two men took off, he wondered, Disappearing kids? Spontaneous combustion? Ghostly threats? Did we make the right choice the last time? At that moment, a young woman in a green vest ran into the room. “Dr. Alvarez! Mr. Dubois! Are you still here?” Seeing her about to drop dead from fright, Dr. Alvarez hurried over. Despite his growing understanding of Dave’s premonitions, he didn’t want the girl to keel over either. “I’m Dr. Alvarez. Take a deep breath and collect yourself.” She collapsed into a chair and forced herself to drink some water. “There’s…was a call for you both from home.” “The high school,” Dave guessed. __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(08/38) Date: Sun, 12 Jun 2005 04:52:52 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 “Dave, let her speak,” the elder man requested. “Go on, Miss.” “H…he’s right, sir. That th…thing struck there an hour ago,” she reported. “Mr. Dubois, call home.” Dave felt a sharp pain cut through his heart. If that bitch hurt Gram…. “Where is a pay phone?” “You can use the phone in my office,” the curator told him. “Dr. Alvarez, David, Nicholas, follow me!” They rushed to his sanctum. There he handed Dave the phone. “It’s going to be all right, Son.” “Let’s hope so,” the teen retorted, dialing the number. Hearing the ringing, he hissed, “Come on! Come on!” “Hello?” Janet asked. “Gram, it’s Dave,” he answered. “Dave! Thank heavens you called! You and Dr. Alvarez need to get back here….” she informed him before breaking down into a sobbing fit. “Gram, she didn’t touch you, did she?” he demanded. “No, she didn’t. B…but Karen and the others are gone. And there’s Mrs. Colavitto,” she continued. “What about Mrs. C? She’s not dead, is she?” he inquired, getting that sinking feeling in his stomach. “When I found her, Dave, she had the burn mark on her neck. Blue fire,” she explained. He glared at Nick and the superintendent, fighting a spasm of anger. “She marked her, didn’t she? Terrific. That explains the attitude.” “Attitude? She appeared there too? Oh, Dave, when will this end? She’ll come for us next,” his grandmother worried. “Not yet,” he noted. Taking a deep breath, he continued, “Gram, you collect yourself and get to the Alvarezes. I don’t want you alone right now. Can you do that for me? Besides, she won’t touch you yet. It’s me she wants. And I don’t think she’s alone this time either.” “There’s that thing,” she guessed. “No, Gram, there’s something else. Tonight, the platform burst into flames and it wasn’t her. She mentioned something about her parents too.” “Mrs. Colavitto said that the ghost was bragging that you found her parents’ joining place. What does that mean?” “It means we’re about to meet the things that spawned her. That’s what,” he told her. “I’m giving you to Dr. Alvarez. After that, I’m sending him back to Amherst.” “What about you? This is serious! We need you back here!” she demanded. “Dr. O’ Connor and I have to deal with her Darkness in Danvers,” he disagreed. “Dr. O’ Connor?” “Is this Janet or Beatrice?” Nick asked. “Janet. Nicholas, thank God you were there tonight!” Janet realized. “I’m glad too,” he concurred. Now I know why the Community called me back here. “I agree with David. Be with your friends. I’ll bring him right back to Amherst as soon as I can.” “Remember your condition,” she advised, recalling his phototropism. “Hopefully, we won’t be that long. If I have to, I can arrange a ride for David through other means. But I’m with him. Now, we need to go. Here’s Dr. Alvarez,” Nick assured her. “Come on, David.” “Right on your tail, Doc,” the teen agreed, as they ran for his rental car. “See you in Amherst, Dr. A!” “Janet, I’m sure Jeannie and Caroline could use your support and advice right now. What about Karen? Anything?” the anxious father wondered. “She was one of those taken. Ricardo, I agree with Dave. Come back,” she replied. “I’ll be on the road within the hour,” he agreed, hanging up. Taking the award, he shook his head. “This was to be their big night. What a night indeed!” With that, he ran out of the museum, heading for the hotel room. If he had his way, he’d be putting the Mass Pike’s asphalt under his tires as soon as possible. Chapter 6 [Cathedral of Crystal, Faerie Lands] The Faerie Empress stared in horror at the events going on in Outer Earth. Those fools should have known better than to make David go there! His aura and the site’s energies have set off a chain reaction! Worse still, the ghost has his friends. She sighed, knowing how the gambit would go down. David will return to Rowenshire and risk the dark influence to save his friends. But how will Nicholas treat him? The Community will wish the young one dead. I cannot let this happen. “Milady,” Grimwilkin interjected gravely. “There is more news from the place called Boston.” “Indeed? What else could there be? The priestesses watch the night skies for the Witch and her demon,” the Elf-Queen replied. Seeing the High Priestess frown, she asked, “Keira, what is it?” “He has been spotted by Pauline in the night sky,” Keira reported. “Who?” the Empress asked. “The demon-wizard returns after all of these years. He heads to meet Nicolas and David at the Witch’s designated spot,” Keira continued. The Empress glared at the view portal. “How could I not have seen this?” She waved her hands and focused. Suddenly, a ripple shot through the screen and the dark horse and rider came into view. “A masking spell. It’s him all right! Has the High Witch been spotted?” “Her ashes are secure in the museum,” Keira assured them. “However, a meeting between wizard, ghost and our friend endangers all,” the wizard pointed out. “Indeed. Grimwilkin, you are to head to this meeting spot. You are to observe but not to intervene unless the situation breaks down,” the Empress directed. Opening a portal to Amherst, she saw the wreckage. “Lichtenfeld seeks to destroy what the boy has created. I say it will not happen!” She wove a spell, cloaking the damage and making everything seem normal. “There! That buys us a few hours at least.” “And in that time?” the wizard wondered. “We pray the goddess intervenes on our behalf. Bad enough that the Witch challenges David’s faith. Now her sire will vex him sorely as well. Leave me,” the Empress commanded. After they had done so, she sighed. “Nicholas, watch the boy closely. Nothing must happen to him! Nothing!” **** [Ninety Minutes later—Amherst] With his fears and anxieties driving him onward, Dr. Alvarez sped all the way back from Boston. He slammed on his brakes at his house, running up the walk and into the house. “Jeannie? Caroline? Charles?” “Daddy! How did you get back here so fast?” Caroline wondered. “Never mind that,” her mother interjected. “Where’s David?” “He’ll be here as soon as he can. That glowing harpy demanded to see him and that family friend of his in Danvers. Janet, what do you know about that Nicholas O’ Connor?” Dr. Alvarez indicated. Janet commented, “I’ve only met him briefly three or four times. He worked extensively with Lorenzo on archaeological digs and they were quite close. At the funeral, he checked on Dave and consoled him for a while.” Then she looked at him curiously. “Dave mentioned Danvers too. Why there?” Caroline put her hands over her mouth and her face went white. “That’s Salem Village!” “As in the trials? That place?” Janet asked. “Lichtenfeld’s got something planned. I wish now I had insisted on going!” Dr. Alvarez realized. “Of all the stupid things!” “These are Karen and the others we’re talking about here. You know Dave, Ricardo,” Janet declared. “Especially where Sis is concerned,” Caroline concurred. “But Dave knows to keep his eyes open where she’s concerned,” Janet noted. “And Nicholas knows her as well.” Let’s hope so. Caroline looked toward the east, wondering about her friends and little sister. Let’s hope so. __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Get on-the-go sports scores, stock quotes, news and more. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/mobile.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(09/38) Date: Sun, 12 Jun 2005 04:55:35 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 Chapter 7 [Danvers—Near the Gallows Tree] After a ride up I-95, Nick and Dave drove through the countryside. As they did, the night seemed eerily still. Unlike most mid-May nights, no bugs or any other night creatures stirred. The trees rustled in the stiff breeze. “You know what we’re getting into?” Nick asked his younger friend. Dave looked at his hand, watching the mark glowing brightly in the moonlight. “I’ve never been here. But didn’t the Witch Trials take place around here? At least we aren’t in Salem.” The immortal slammed on the brakes, stopping them quickly. “Danvers is Salem Village! I hope you realize that!” Dave’s eyes went wide. “And this tree is where they…uh…hanged those people?” “You got it,” Nick explained, urging the car on again. “Stay alert. Rowenshire is Hell to you. I know that. But this is much, much worse! She’ll be at full power here.” “She seemed that way in the museum. What was all of that stuff about her parents anyhow?” Dave asked. “The museum is built on the site of the last great coven rite for the dark witches before they dispersed. At that ceremony, legend has it that the last high dark witch called on a demon lord for vengeance. A mysterious rider in black rode forth. They were joined—married in a satanic way. They eventually gave birth to Lichtenfeld. The rest of the story you already know,” Nick recounted as they headed through the town. Stopping next to a grassy area, he stated, “Here we are. Remember, eyes open.” “Yes, sir,” Dave concurred, looking around the area. The air weighed heavily on him. “This place feels like it should be haunted.” “I would bet on it,” Nick agreed. “There it is!” As they approached the tree, Dave felt a chill running up and down his spine. The massive oak had several large knots in it. The branches were permanently bent from their long ago task. “Unbelievable!” Nick’s senses brushed across something in the sky. He looked to the sky to see a silhouette cross the full moon. Dave winced, gripping his hand. “Argh! What’s going on?” He glared at the sky. “What is that?” “You felt that?” Nick wondered. “I couldn’t miss it,” the teenager groused. “And what is that thing?” “That is her father,” the vampire informed him. “She’s close as well.” “Yeah. I couldn’t miss that,” Dave retorted. “Hey, Lichtenfeld, show yourself!” “All ye have to do is ask, Boy!” the ghost agreed, appearing in front of them. “And yer early. I’m impressed.” “Many miles to go and all that crap,” the teenager hissed. “Now where are MY FRIENDS?” “Nicolas, you really should teach ‘im some manners,” she groused. “I don’t blame him,” Nick rebutted. “Answer his question.” “First, ye meet someone special! Yer Grandsire!” she declared, waving to the sky. The duo stared up to see a cloaked figure descend toward them on a white red-eyed horse. Its features lay concealed under its Puritan hat and cloak. “This is he?” “Aye, Father, tis our dear Child. Nicolas has brought ‘im home,” she declared as he dismounted. “Na yet! First, he must prove ‘imself!” the dark newcomer declared. “Give ‘im the terms!” “An old man with sense. Never thought I’d say that,” Dave scoffed. “Silence, Whelp!” The cloaked man blasted the teenager with a bolt of dark fire. “Show respect!” “For her? Get a grip!” Dave hissed, getting up from the burst. “She’s RUINING MY LIFE!” The dark man laughed wickedly. “Your life? Poor confused Child. Ye have no idea of who ye are!” Nick shook his head. “He’s not the One!” “Of course he is! Ye know he’s LaFontaine’s descendant!” the ghost retorted. “Tha’s why we set the terms and the game!” “Quit it! What the Hell is your game?” Dave bellowed angrily. “What is this?” “Ye are the Chosen One! The spirit of Vengeance itself ‘gainst these pathetic mortals and other creatures!” the Witch revealed. “I foretold it on that night they sent me away! Didn’t I, Nicolas? YE HEARD ME! TELL ‘IM!” “He was there? Lady, you’ve really lost it!” Dave denied. “Have I? Lesee….” She waved her hand at Nick. “Forces of darkness, hear my call! From the cloak of illusion, reveal ALL!” Nick spasmed, writhing under the spell’s influence. “ARRGGH!” His fangs extended. He hissed painfully. His eyes snapped open, revealing the yellow pallor there. “Dr. O’ Connor, what is this?” the teen demanded. “Quit callin’ ‘im that! That ain’t his name!” the ghost revealed. “Damn you!” Nick growled. “He wasn’t supposed to know yet!” “Secrets hurt, don’t they, Crusader?” the Dark Man added. Dave frowned. “You’re a vampire!” “Yes, I am,” Nick relented. “An eight hundred year old one in fact. And as she said, I was there on the night she mentioned.” He smirked. “I helped to stop her grand spell.” “The Lower Valley. That’s why it’s the way it is!” Dave realized. “Yes, dark energies are trapped there,” Nick continued. “Until they found a conduit in you!” “And Fire Puss, her Sour Thing!” Dave added. “What?” Nick asked. “Don’t ye talk of him like that!” she roared, firing another blast. He dodged it. “Truth hurts, don’t it? Enough games! SPELL IT OUT!” The Dark Man chuckled darkly. “For a whelp, ye are a brave one, David Dubois. Yer definitely our Intended. Very well. Spend a time on the land. Commune once again. If ye survive, ye an’ yer friends go free. Fail an’ ye are ours!” “David, don’t!” Nick urged. “And if I don’t do this?” Dave asked. The Dark One opened a portal, revealing an energy prison. Within it, the captive teenagers struggled to get out. “Watch!” He shot dark energy at them. They screamed in agony. After a minute, they could see the quartet watching them. “Dave!” Karen begged. “Don’t come after us!” “Karen, I can’t leave you in there!” he disagreed. “I’d rather die than see you hurting! Don’t!” she urged before screaming from another bolt as the image faded. Dave glared at the duo. “STOP IT!” He snarled darkly. “I…Ah wan’ somethin’ too!” “No terms!” she spat. Her sire disagreed, enjoying the rise he was getting out of the cursed teen. “Lissen! What is it?” “Either way, ya…let ‘em go,” Dave hissed low. “NAY!” she denied. “SILENCE!” he declared at her. “If ye lose an’ ye come, they go free.” “No tricks!” Dave growled. “It’s a small price to pay fer ye,” the Dark Man announced. “It starts! Two nights hence! Be at our land by sundown!” He leapt onto his mount’s back and galloped away into the sky. “Ya heard ‘im!” Dave snarled at the ghost. “Aye!” She scowled at the duo. “Two nights hence then! The old house! We’ll see ye there!” With that, she vanished from view. “’Mon!” Dave growled, stalking toward the car. “What are you doing?” Nick asked. “I’d ask ya the same thing,” the taciturn mortal retorted. “Wha’s the deal, Doc? Who are ya really?” Nick took a deep breath. “I deserve that. My real name is Nicolas de Brabant. As the Mystery Man said, I was a Crusader before I was a vampire.” “Did Grandpa know?” Dave asked. “Yes he did. David, I saved his life and asked him to keep my secret in return. He knew about me for 45 years!” Nick informed him. “I also have to tell you that if you lose this match, they’ll make you totally dark.” “I have to take that risk,” Dave told him. “For them, I’ll do it.” “You mean for her, don’t you?” the immortal supposed. “She’s my friend but so are the others!” “You should know better than to lie to a vampire about your feelings,” Nick declared. “Come on; they’re waiting in Amherst.” Meantime, you can’t tell him what you have to do afterwards. Way to go, Nick. With that, they got into the car and took off toward the Interstate. __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Stay in touch with email, IM, photo sharing and more. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/stayintouch.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(10A/38) Date: Mon, 13 Jun 2005 07:29:33 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 Chapter 8 [Amherst—3:47 AM] Following Dave’s directions, Nick made good time between Danvers and Amherst, taking the route in just over three hours. While they talked a little at times, the two remained quiet, sorting their thoughts out about each other and the situation facing them. It seemed overwhelming to them both. Nick mused about the situation, trying to reason out how he was going to deal with Nikki and the Community. Can I kill my colleague’s grandson? He didn’t ask to be like this. He’s going through with this out of love. LaCroix would tell me to quit worrying and just do it. But I’m not LaCroix. He sighed and glanced over at the young man. Seeing the other dealing with similar issues, he allowed the teenager his space. Dave stared at the road rushing up to meet them. Concern for his classmates dominated his thoughts. But there was something else. When his friends suffered, the darkness surged within him. It was icy cold and cruel. It resented the interlopers in his life. And it had almost consumed him then. What would it do with a weekend in Hell? I have to make it for them. But will they keep their word? Will they let them go? He shook his head. Don’t think like that, Dave. Don’t doubt yourself. That’s what she wants. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. “That’s it,” he hissed. “What is?” Nick asked, as they took the right onto Pleasant Street. “That harpy’s taken enough from me. Enough is enough! It stops now!” Dave asserted, glaring at him. Nick forced his eyes back to the road. Seeing his companion like that reminded him of their last encounter. The boy is still there. And he’s angry, giving the darkness a place to form. “You have to control yourself if you’re going to survive.” “I wrote the book about surviving against that bitch,” Dave replied pointedly as they stopped in front of the Alvarez home. “Follow me.” Seeing the lights were still on, he pounded on the door. Caroline opened the door and jumped at his facial expression. “Dave, you’re back! Where have you been?” “Salem Village dealing with the creepy things,” he retorted, waving Nick into the house. “This is Dr. O’ Connor. Doc, Caroline Alvarez.” “Miss Alvarez,” Nick greeted, shaking her hand. “Where’s my grandmother?” Dave insisted, trying to keep my voice down. “She’s sleeping and so are my parents. You should try to do the same,” she insisted. As he turned, she shuddered. His eyes were different somehow. Then she saw the anger smoldering there. Since she had known him, Caroline knew about his emotional issues. But this was something else. Things had come to a head and he was on the verge of exploding or worse. “Maybe a cup of coffee would be good. Want one?” “Yeah. That works for me. Thanks,” Dave agreed. “Gram’s where?” “Upstairs,” the editor-in-chief noted. “I was,” Janet interjected, entering the area. “Dave, where have you…?” Dave put his hand up, stopping her in mid-sentence. “Not tonight. Not after wha’ Ah’ve jus’ dealt with!” The women looked at Nick who concurred, “We ran into her and someone else.” “And that would be?” they asked. “Her father,” Nick declared as his mind flashed back…. ***** __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Subject: xover:The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(10B/38) Date: Mon, 13 Jun 2005 07:31:18 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 [Rowenshire—November 10, 1720] [A/N: Thanks to everyone for their assistance on the flashback.] Nick landed in the woods outside of the small town. At first glance, it seemed to be normal. However, in spite of everything, there was an underlying feeling in those woods. Her words are playing tricks on you, Nick. Then he heard a horse’s whinny but not in the area around him. Rather it was coming from the sky. He looked up to see a dark silhouette against the moon. It seemed to be of a horse and rider. For a second, he heard his friend Matthew’s voice from several years before. This is how he saw me. Is this retribution? Looking up again, he didn’t see it. Incredible. He continued the rest of the way, hurrying out of doubt. Reaching the small Catholic church on the edge of town, he rapped on the door. “Oui? Who?” Father Ricard asked wearily, opening the door. Seeing the visitor’s face, he gasped, “Nicolas? What are you doing here?” “Father, I wouldn’t have come but this is urgent,” he indicated. “It has to do with Anne Lichtenfeld.” “All right. Do come in,” the priest concurred before shutting the door. “Please take a seat.” “Thank you,” Nick agreed, doing so but keeping away from the Bible in the pew next to him. “Now what is this business?” Father Ricard wondered, taking a seat. “My companion and I left here and made our way east heading to Boston. We ended up in an inn next to a site with a giant cross,” Nick explained. “It was chained off and priests were blessing it.” “Oui. I’ve seen that place. Supposedly, something foul took place there,” the priest agreed. “What does that have to do with here?” “Everything. The high dark witch overseeing the rite was Rebecca Lichtenfeld. It was a dark fertility rite,” the immortal noted. Father Ricard stood up and walked about the church. “Then the other was a demon and Mistress Anne was the spawn of darkness.” “It seems that way,” Nick mentioned. “But the father remains unaccounted for.” “He vanished years ago and I hope he stays gone forever,” the priest indicated. “Especially with what you’re telling me. Nicolas, thank you for coming back with this insight. I know you’re worried about me betraying you to the villagers. I promised to keep your secret and I will. Once again, you’re trying to help this village and I thank you.” Then they heard the horse’s whinny from outside. They stepped out of the church to see a dark man on a white horse glaring at them from his Puritan garb. “Where did ye put ‘er? I want ‘er!” “Want whom?” Father Ricard retorted, holding the cross out in front of him. “Back to Hell with you, dark thing!” “Nay, Insolent One. I want my daughter!” the intruder demanded, firing a blast that knocked the cross out of his hands. “Stay back, Nicolas de Brabant, I’ll deal with ye later!” Seeing Nick’s reaction, he grinned. “Aye, both ye and yer companion are known to us.” “I’m not abandoning my friend to you,” Nick asserted. The Dark One hissed at the vampire. “And I won’t abandon my daughter to the likes of ye! WHERE IS SHE?” “Hanged. Burned. Her body scattered over that foul stretch that was her home. There’s where ye’ll find ‘er!” the priest spat, picking up the cross again. “Get out of here!” “NAY!” the intruder retorted, heading toward the property in a hurry. “Thank the Lord he’s gone, Nicolas,” Father Ricard expressed. “But he’ll be back. Father, perhaps I could help you to escape before he returns.” “Non, Nicolas, a shepherd’s place is tending his small flock and so is it with me. If I die doing so then our Father will grant me a place in Heaven. Until then, such is my duty,” the priest declined. Then they both heard a fierce scream echoing through the night air and knew that the stranger had discovered the town’s act. There would be vengeance. They could count on that…. **** [1980 Alvarez House] “Dr. O’ Connor?” Caroline asked, shaking him out of his reverie. “Yes? Oh sorry. I was thinking,” Nick apologized. Now calm enough to think rationally, Dave analyzed him, wondering what exactly was going through his mind. I wonder if he’s seen this thing before? But not in front of them. “This has been the night for it.” He heard more footsteps on the stairs. “Here they come.” He sighed. “This really stinks.” The two parents rushed into the room. “You’re back! Any word on them?” “They’re all right as long as I play ball,” Dave retorted, as he fixed a cup of coffee. “Or so our Mystery Man says.” “Mystery Man?” Janet asked. “You actually saw him?” Dr. Alvarez asked. “Oh yeah. A real winner all the way around,” Dave groused. “Still, when this is over, Karen and the others will be set free. I got their word on that.” “What then do they want?” Jeannie asked. “Me actually,” Dave noted grimly. “They’re going to run me through a gauntlet this weekend.” “The old house? Dave, you can’t!” his grandmother protested. “If I don’t, they’re dead,” he disagreed. “Don’t try and talk me out of it either.” “We wouldn’t dream of it,” Caroline replied sarcastically. Especially where the little sister’s concerned. “I better tell the teachers that you won’t be there for a few days,” the superintendent told him. “I’ll be there but we’re going to take a look at that room. I want to see it for myself before I see Her Obnoxiousness and Senior,” Dave indicated, refilling his coffee cup. “By the way, he’s going to need to sack out for the day while I do some errands. Is anyone heading for the hospital?” “I’m going up there. Your mother’s waiting for you there, Chief,” Janet replied. “We’ll go in a few hours. And what do you mean, Senior? Who’s this?” “The Witch’s father. Seems he’s back in town after almost 300 years,” Dave noted. “Wait! Her father?” Jeannie queried. “That’s what she said,” Nick indicated. “He didn’t seem exactly human.” “That’s putting it mildly,” Dave agreed. “He throws dark fire like she does and has the same charming personality.” He yawned. “If you all don’t mind, can I grab some winks on the couch before Gram and I go to the hospital?” “Take the guest bedroom, Dave,” his grandmother told him. “I can’t get to sleep anyway.” He nodded and tromped up the stairs. Once up there, he collapsed into an uneasy sleep. Meantime, Nick told the others. “He’s wound up so tight that he’s going to explode.” “After a lifetime of taking Hell from that ghost, this is the last straw for him, I’d imagine,” Janet assumed. “How was he in Danvers?” “He didn’t back down from them if that’s what you mean. In fact, he jumped right into this gauntlet as he put it. The part about the kids’ safety was his stipulation though,” Nick reported. And he shrugged off hell fire but I’m not telling them about that one. “I did notice something else though.” “And that is?” Dr. Alvarez wondered. “During the exchange, he started slurring his words almost taking on an accent,” the vampire noted. He took a deep breath. “He was the angry boy I remember from his grandfather’s funeral. The glare in his eye. The attitude. I’m going with him this weekend if I can. I don’t trust him down there by himself.” “There’s another factor too, Nicholas,” Janet added. “The townspeople ran him out of there on a rail. If they find out he’s there, it could get really ugly. I wouldn’t put it past the ghost to incite them. Look, I’ll drive you to my house. You can stay there for the day.” “Thank you, Janet,” he accepted. “Did someone get the award? I forgot in all of the confusion last night.” “I have it,” Dr. Alvarez indicated. “With everything else, I wasn’t going to leave that behind.” “Let’s go, Nicholas. I can lead you there. Is there anyone you needed to call or anything?” Janet asked after getting dressed and pulling her coat on. “There is a collect call I need to make. Thank you,” Nick indicated. “If there’s anything else, I’ll let you know.” After they left, the two anxious parents and their daughter worried silently to themselves, wondering how the affair would turn out. __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(11/38) Date: Mon, 13 Jun 2005 07:37:50 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 [Janet’s House] Janet let them inside and looked around at the slightly disheveled front room. “My apologies. The place is usually neater than this.” “Under the circumstances, that’s understandable,” he concurred, entering the area. “Sorry if this sounds in poor taste but I wish that Lorenzo were here.” She agreed while filling the teakettle. “I wish he were too, Dr. O’ Connor.” “Actually, Janet, I’d like it if you called me ‘Nicholas’ if that’s all right,” he requested. “If you would prefer it,” she agreed. “Nicholas, I have to admit that sometimes Dave goes downright feral when the Witch comes up. Is that the way he was?” “Not quite that bad but the pain and anger were clearly there. He’s on the razor’s edge, Janet, and those two know it,” he pointed out. “I can guess that,” she declared. “I’m just worried that once he falls, I’ll never see him again.” Once again, Nick felt guilty, knowing his appointed task should his young friend fail. “Have faith and pray hard. I’m sorry but I need to make that call.” “I’m sorry. The phone’s right here. I’ll give you some privacy. Just watch the teakettle if you would? I appreciate it,” she indicated, trying to stay composed as she headed upstairs. He sighed, dialing the “0”. “Hi. Collect call please from Nick to Nikki. Thank you.” A minute later, the female Elder asked, “What happened, Nick? You were supposed to stop it!” “You didn’t tell me the event was taking place on top of the coven ceremonial site! It triggered the very thing we’re dealing with!” he retorted. “It’s more complicated now.” “How so?” she asked. “You have a job. Now do it!” “The Witch has David’s friends as hostages. He has to go back there,” he explained. “No, Nick, absolutely not! Kill him now!” she ordered. He frowned. “No. I won’t.” With that, he hung up. He has to at least play that hand. **** [Captain’s Hearth, Boston] “I can’t believe he did that to me!” Nikki bellowed. “Argh! All right, Nick, you want to play games. Fine! And you’re going to pay for it!” She dialed a number and waited for an answer. **** [Raven—Toronto] As dawn approached, Miklosh straightened the bar and wiped the countertops down. It had been a busy night for the club as both humans and vampires mixed and partied until just fifteen minutes before. In the corner, Janette enjoyed a glass of blood wine as she inspected the ledger. “It seems we’re becoming popular.” “That is a good thing, Janette,” the bartender noted. “Yes. It is good to know what’s going on in the Community,” she concurred as the phone rang. “I’ll take it. Hello, this is the Raven. Janette speaking.” “Janie, this is Nikki diCosta in Boston. I need to speak to LaCroix,” Nikki told her. “The name’s Janette and LaCroix isn’t here at the moment. Can I give him a message?” Janette retorted, trying to keep the conversation halfway civil. “Why not? Nicolas is having another crisis of conscience!” Nikki informed her. She chuckled. “He’s refusing your charms again, is he? I’ll have to reward him when I see him.” “You wish you had the stamina to get past the foreplay. Anyhow, there’s a situation he was supposed to take care of. A mortal must be eliminated and he won’t follow through!” “You don’t expect Nicolas to do it? My Dear, you really don’t know him! Mon Cher won’t even drink their blood much less do the deed!” Janette informed her. “Is this tied to the museum incident?” “Si!” Nikki retorted. “Where is our master?” At that moment, LaCroix walked through the Raven’s front door and looked at Janette. “Who is that?” he asked placidly. “The so-called Elder of New England,” Janette replied, handing him the phone. “Yes, Nikki,” he greeted. “What is this about? It’s nearly sunrise.” “I know but it’s about Nicolas,” she replied. “Have you heard about the museum incident earlier tonight?” “Did I? I felt it here! What of it?” he retorted. “Nick was supposed to kill a teenage boy. He refuses to do it.” “How predictable,” the Roman snickered sarcastically. “Really, Nikki, you’ve missed quite a bit about Nicholas. He’s soft and weak. This boy—is he the one who the spirit attacked?” “That’s right,” she concurred. LaCroix nodded, glancing over at Janette and signaling for a drink. “Interesting. Where is he now?” “The number he called from is an Amherst, Mass number. I assume he’s somewhere in the town,” Nikki guessed. “The young man, Dubois, must die, LaCroix! He’s Lichtenfeld’s chosen one!” LaCroix laughed. “Rubbish! Lichtenfeld was insane and making threats when she died!” “Certainly if you felt the power emanating from that place tonight, you know that’s not true,” she countered. “Deal with Nick. We must kill the boy! If he doesn’t, I’ll call the Enforcers!” With that, she hung up. He growled. “I hate when people presume to give me orders. She’s going to call the Enforcers. Really now?” He gulped down a glass of blood wine. “But I must make ready to leave tonight. I will go there and deal with the situation myself. If this mortal has a tie to Lichtenfeld, he could be dangerous to us all. Excuse me. I’ll be in the back.” With that, he walked into the back room and slammed the door behind him. Janette glanced at her bartender and shrugged. Nicolas, why do you make everything so complicated because of your morals? __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(12A/38) Date: Tue, 14 Jun 2005 04:27:56 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 Chapter 8 [Northampton—Hospital; 8:00 AM] Janet and Dave walked into the building anxiously. While they had managed to snag a few hours of rest, they still felt exhausted. After a quick elevator ride to the third floor, they found Mrs. Colavitto’s room. “There it is,” Dave realized. “She wants to see you,” she told him. “Go ahead.” He looked into the room to find his teacher staring sadly at the ceiling and walls. “This is my fault,” he told her. She turned to see him. “Dave! You’re back! She didn’t hurt you, did she?” He shook his head. “I’ve seen every one of her tricks. Trust me; I have an answer for all of them. How are you?” “My neck feels like it’s burning still. Your grandmother and mother have both said there’s no cure. Is that right? Be honest with me,” she requested. “That’s right,” he admitted. “I never wanted this to happen.” “We all knew the risks,” she argued. “Especially me. But you’re a special person, Dave. Seeing you come so far this year, I’m proud of what you’re becoming.” He took her hand. “It’s because of you and the others, you know.” “I know that,” she concurred. “She’s using us to get to you.” “Yeah. Oh you know how the ghost’s father was a myth?” he asked. “He’s real, I take it? But how?” she inquired. “He showed up in Danvers last night and challenged me,” he informed her. “Weekend at the old place. I live—we all go home together. I die—they all come home and I’m stuck there.” “Dave, you can’t!” she protested. “We tried telling him that last night,” Janet indicated. “Try stopping him.” “You’re whipping up more toys, I take it?” she wondered. “I’m not fooling around,” he pointed out frankly. “And neither will they. She’s got some nasty surprises down in that place including animals and that fire demon of hers.” “You against all that? Dave, please!” the patient begged. “Reconsider this!” “I don’t do it and the others get a painful death. And knowing this latest twit, he’s likely to come after me in any event. He’s definitely sure of himself and is more smug than the Witch. He packs quite a wallop with those flame blasts too.” “They hit you with that cold fire and you’re still standing?” Janet wondered. “Dave, what’s going on?” “It’s not the first time. He said there’s something about me and that my life’s not my own. It’s got to do with the Curse,” he informed them, taking a seat. “The Witch said she prophesized my coming.” “That was 260 years ago,” Mrs. C. debated. “So they can see the future. So could the Oracle of Delphi. Big deal,” he countered, putting on a good front. “That’s why I need to be unpredictable. One thing that will be predictable: I’m finishing this. No more garbage. If I want a normal life, I gotta rip it away from those two.” “And if those townspeople get a hold of you?” Sarah asked, joining them. “They’ll kill you, Dave.” “They’ll bleed for it,” he countered. “We don’t have a choice. I don’t expect you to understand anyhow.” “Excuse me? I’m your mother! Don’t you talk to me like that!” she lectured. “Maybe if you were around more often and didn’t do the sauce, I wouldn’t have to! Look at this! If you and Dad didn’t move us there, she wouldn’t be lying in that bed! My friends wouldn’t be suffering! Grandpa would be alive! And I wouldn’t have to deal with this garbage! OPEN YOUR EYES!” he retorted harshly, getting right in her face. “It’s not like I didn’t try to get you out of there! I did!” she argued. “I tried to tell you but you didn’t believe me! You let Cybbie go! And Randy’s going in the toilet thanks to Dad! Well, you could wish me luck, you know,” he told her, turning his back and looking out the window. “You’re so stupid!” Sarah hissed, swatting the air as she stormed out of the room. “Go ahead and get yourself killed because of those kids! Be my guest!” “At least they care!” he bellowed at her down the hall. “Ah!” He stormed back in the room and put his face in his hands. “It never fails. She never cares anyhow.” The two women looked at him, seeing the tears starting to come from his face. He snarled, glaring at them. “I’m gettin’ them out! That’s it! I don’t have time to feel sorry for her! Not with Karen and the others in this fix!” “She does care. She just doesn’t know how to say it,” Mrs. C. pointed out. “She just wants to put me down. If it’s important to me, she disregards it. Look out for Number 1,” he disagreed. “Look, I have to do some things. I’ll be back before I leave tomorrow afternoon. You rest up.” She nodded. “I’ll do that. You take care.” “I’ll try,” he promised, giving her hand a squeeze. “This is one more battle in the war but it’s one I have to win.” With that, he left. “Sorry about that, Candace,” Janet apologized. “From what I’ve heard, I expected as much. While I don’t approve of Dave’s tone toward her, she should support him.” She shuddered. “Especially with that glowing witch waiting to kill him and the others. I mean—why? They’re good kids! They never did anything to her!” “Spite and revenge against our family. The problem is that the ghost ran into Dave and he’s not going to back down to her. Not with his friends there. There’s a family friend with him. He’s looking after him,” Janet explained. The teacher’s eyes watered. “This is why they drove him out of Rowenshire? Because they felt he brought the ghost down on them again?” “That’s right. And he hates them as much as they hate him,” Janet told the patient. “This has the makings of a disaster. And with Dave so focused on this, I fear for him. Will he see the dangers?” Janet shrugged. “I worry about the same things. But as he says, he wrote the book on surviving against her. He still has a few surprises of his own hidden on that land. I’ll see if Dr. Alvarez can bring him back tomorrow before he leaves.” “I’d like that. Thanks, Janet,” Mrs. C expressed as the other left. __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Get on-the-go sports scores, stock quotes, news and more. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/mobile.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07) (R) (12B/38) Date: Tue, 14 Jun 2005 04:29:05 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 **** [Amherst High—9:00] The students milled around the barricaded door leading to the White Knight’s newsroom, wondering what had happened. On the other side of the plastic tape, everything appeared normal. They couldn’t figure out what the smell was or why it was so cold around there though. Caroline and her father stood watch outside of the room. Given what had happened the night before, they had no intention of seeing a repeat. Right at 9 AM, Dave and his grandmother rushed up the hall, cutting through the crowd. “How’s Mrs. C?” Caroline asked. “She’s awake and aware of what’s going on,” Dave responded, scanning the room inside of the tape. “Yup. It looks, feels and smells of her.” Overhearing his comment, one of the other students asked, “You know what did this, Dubois?” “Oh yeah. Stay back, Peters. No telling what she’s left here,” Dave advised, entering the area. “Keep them back.” He walked through what seemed like everything being normal. Something’s wrong here. He could feel magic in the air. “Get them out of here!” “You heard him!” the superintendent told the students. “Go back to your classes. We’ll let you know if we find anything.” Another classmate yelled, “I knew you were a freak, Dubois! And now look what you’ve done!” Dave stormed back over to the door. “Who said that? Come on!” When nobody spoke up, he continued, “I didn’t ask for this! And neither did they! Back off! I’ve had the night from Hell and I can tell you this weekend’s not going to be any easier. Now GET LOST!” With that, he returned to his search. When everyone else had gone, Caroline asked, “What is it?” He held his right hand up, revealing the glowing symbol there. “I’m going to try something.” He focused, probing at the mystical energies around him. While it burned him, he could tell there were two layers. “Let’s see what really happened!” Then the illusion faded, revealing the carnage from the previous night. “How’d you do that?” she gasped. “I can smell her handiwork. Someone else didn’t want us in here. Too bad for them,” Dave replied. Then he stopped and stared at the symbol burned in the floor. “Damn her! It isn’t bad enough that she did this. Now she’s signing her work too.” He looked around again at the devastated place. This had been their safe haven. In this place, he and his friends had begun to pursue their literary and journalistic interests as well as feel comfortable being with each other. In a few minutes, his adversary had demonstrated how fragile those dreams were. He shuddered, growling under his breath. “This is the LAST TIME! Ah ain’t takin’ this—NO MORE!” He looked around the room one last time, recalling every detail and nuance and feeling his friends’ pain. After that, he rushed out of the room, replacing the tape over the door. “Seal it! Nobody gets in there!” Watching him, Janet recalled Nick’s observation from the previous night. He is that little boy! We need to get him out of here. “I’ll take him to get a coffee or something. You both go about your business.” “Just be careful, ‘kay?” Dave requested. Dr. Alvarez nodded. “You too, Amigo. You need sleep.” “Not yet. I have a few things to fix first,” Dave disagreed, leaving for the parking lot. “Watch him, Janet,” he told her. “I know,” she agreed, following her grandson. __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Stay in touch with email, IM, photo sharing and more. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/stayintouch.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(13/38) Date: Tue, 14 Jun 2005 04:30:47 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 [Cappuccino Express—ten minutes later] “Are you okay?” Janet asked him after they had ordered. “Not really,” he admitted. “But I’m surviving.” He saw the eyes looking at him. “She’s done it again. Terrific.” “You’re really intense. You know you scare people when you’re like this,” she told him. “I’m the one facing something scary. Let them deal with it,” he muttered. “So are they—maybe not to the extent that you are but they have their demons too,” she pointed out. “Yeah but their demons don’t shoot fire when they’re ticked off,” he countered taking a sip of coffee. “Or kill their relatives out of spite.” She shook her head, knowing she wasn’t going to get through to him. Not under these conditions. Not that I can blame him but if he acts like this, he’ll never have any friends. Mrs. Campbell walked over with their orders. “Here you go. It’s on the house.” “Thanks but you don’t have to do that, Mrs. Campbell,” he accepted. “After what happened last night, you need someone to do something nice. For what it’s worth, you gave a very nice acceptance speech last night. What happened with the table burning up like that?” the manager asked. “Beats me,” he lied, not wanting to tell her that it was the work of a man whose face he hadn’t seen. “They say that museum’s haunted. The ghosts had a field day last night.” His grandmother arched her brow at him for that story but said nothing. Mrs. Campbell requested, “Can you come to my office? I wanted to ask you about something, Dave. Janet, I’d like you there too.” “Sure,” he concurred, taking their cups with him. After they settled in her office and closed the door, he asked, “What’s going on?” “That’s my question to you. I was driving past the high school last night when I saw this bright light coming from the second floor. Then this huge fire monster nearly crashed into me,” Mrs. Campbell reported. “Then when I got home for your acceptance speech, I saw the table burn up on its own. Just before the feed died, I saw that woman’s ghost and she knew you.” “Keep this to yourself. Understand?” he replied. Seeing her nod, he continued, “She does. She’s behind the incidents here and in Boston. The fire demon is her pet. As to how she knows me, it’s a really long story but it’s nothing I did. She found me.” “I see. And the others? You know where they are, I gather?” she asked. “I have a fair idea. I’m going after them tomorrow night,” he admitted. “With what I’m up against, it should be quite a weekend.” “You should get help! Certainly there’s someone?” she queried. “Dave, this is insane!” “I don’t have a choice. I may have someone with me though. A family friend was there. He’s at home right now. Trust me; these two creeps are beyond anything the police or National Guard can deal with,” he noted. “And you can?” she wondered. “How would that be?” “Experience and motivation,” he informed her while standing. “If you’ll excuse us, I need to get to work on some things. Tomorrow’s going to be here before we know it.” “All right. Stop by for a mocha for the trip there. At least it’ll brighten the trip over there a bit,” she declared. “That it will. I’d appreciate that,” he replied. “Thanks.” With that, they left. Mrs. Campbell shook her head. There’s definitely more to that boy than meets the eye. Between those demons and his family, how does he stay sane? __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Get on-the-go sports scores, stock quotes, news and more. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/mobile.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(14/38) Date: Wed, 15 Jun 2005 06:12:16 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 Chapter 9 [Faerie Realm, Cathedral of Crystal] The Faerie Empress fumed at the view portal. How did David undo the spell? HOW? Things were going from bad to worse in the realm beyond. Despite her best efforts, darkness spread over the scene. And that was only accounting for the ghost. The dark sire’s presence intensified that situation. “I would have expected you to intervene before he could accept the challenge!” she railed at Grimwilkin. “If I had the chance, I would have. However, the situation was unstable in itself. I decided to listen. The question is, however, what Nicolas will do,” he responded. “Yes, yes…this threat to kill him,” she retorted. “I’m betting that our knight’s morals won’t let him do it. If he tries, I will need to deal with him. Meanwhile, I feel Lichtenfeld’s ghost and another of his race to be close at hand. Given her growing influence on our young friend, I won’t allow her to sway Nicolas.” With a wave of her hand, she vanished into thin air. She intervenes yet again. Who knows what effect this will have? He disappeared as well, watching the situation as it developed on all fronts. **** [Rowenshire—Energy cell] Garth picked himself off of the ground and shook his arm to get the feeling back into it. Since the ghost had put them in there, he and the other teens had tried unsuccessfully to break out. They only achieved a few bruises and burns in the process. “It’s no use,” April groused, rubbing her own burns. “We have to get out,” Steve told them from where he and Frank were checking on Karen. “How’s she doing?” Garth asked. “She’s breathing but whatever they hit her with packed a serious load,” Frank noted. “And knowing Dave, he’s already seriously ticked off as it is. I hope she wakes up soon,” Steve mentioned. Seeing the Mystery Man approaching, he added, “Don’t look now but here he comes again.” “Indeed,” the cloaked man agreed. “Ye have heart. Sit still or end up like yer friend!” “Not likely,” April retorted. “What are you doing to Dave?” The man grinned at her. “Drawing out his true self, Lass. By Sabbath’s end, he’ll be ours.” “He’ll resist it,” Steve countered. “Aye. He’s strong but here—the darkness is supreme! Feel it!” April shivered. “It’s cold. But the air….” Karen moaned and opened her eyes slowly. “It’s charged with pain. Somehow…it’s Dave’s pain.” She sat up and rubbed her head. “Are you okay?” Steve asked. “I’ll live no thanks to him,” she retorted, glaring at the Mystery Man. “Karen, Dave’s not here. How can it be his pain?” Frank inquired. “Because they’ve put him through so much here,” Karen asserted, forcing herself to her feet. “You know where we are?” Frank asked. Garth and Karen looked at each other, deciding who should say it first. Finally, she replied, “Rowenshire, I’ll bet. Let them see the house.” “Ye’re very perceptive,” the Dark Man complimented. “I’d say ye’re too perceptive. Why not?” He waved his gloved hand, allowing a portion of the wall to go transparent. “Aye! There!” The teenagers saw the massive white house set in the midst of the tall grass and under the gray storm clouds. The trees were almost bare and swayed in the stiff wind. “He grew up HERE?” Steve asked. “Not exactly the Top 10 Best Homes,” April disparaged. “Tis so. I built the original structure ‘ere in 1694. Aye, tis true,” the Dark One informed them. “A trap, it was. Yer friend, it caught.” “It wasn’t his fault!” Karen protested. “His father built that stupid house!” “Aye. But the sins of the fathers are borne by the children. David is the oldest son thereby making ‘im ours as had been ordained centuries ago! Forget ‘im,” the jailor noted. Karen smirked defiantly. “You’ll have to kill me first.” “And that goes for the rest of us,” April asserted. “Ye’re a loyal group but don’t force us to kill ye ‘fore he gets here,” the Dark One advised before disappearing into the dim light. “Still I might keep ye, Little Spitfire an’ ‘im!” Karen sighed. “That guy’s a total psycho. What a headache.” Seeing that the force field was back to its previous state, she added, “Now you all see what Dave lived through here. No wonder he’s the way he is.” Leaving her friends to think on those words, she sat down on the other side of the cell to meditate. Dave, please don’t do anything stupid! __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Stay in touch with email, IM, photo sharing and more. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/stayintouch.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(15/38) Date: Wed, 15 Jun 2005 06:13:53 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 Chapter 10 [That night] [Boston—Captain’s Hearth] About 1:00 AM, LaCroix strode purposefully into the Captain’s Hearth. Between weather delays and other issues, his flight had finally made it into Logan Airport only 45 minutes earlier. Mortals and their procedures. Such nonsense! Spying his quarry, he made his way to the bar. “Nikki, we have to talk.” “Ah, LaCroix, perhaps I can offer you a drink before our discussion?” the female Elder offered. “Thank you. It’s been a long night and I would like to get down to business,” he replied. “A blood merlot, perhaps?” She signaled for his drink. A minute later, she handed a goblet to him. “Follow me.” She led him into the office and shut the door. “Thank you for coming. I don’t need to tell you how serious this could be.” “Really, Nikki, why did you call Nicholas? You must have heard about his weakness. He will not kill the boy if there’s any way he can get out of it,” he informed her before taking a draught from his glass. “It is embarrassing to admit that.” She smirked at him. “I believe that. The mighty Lucius of Pompeii, conqueror of many lands and co-conqueror of others along with his sister has to deal with a weak offspring. It is ironic to say the least. But I would never turn on you. Nor have I.” He shrugged, recalling the deal they made the night he brought her across. “You have always been a faithful daughter, Nikki. I do appreciate good information just as you’ve given me tonight. I would request that you keep the Enforcers out of this situation. Their presence would make things…messy to say the least.” “But if Nick doesn’t kill the boy then I’ll have to deal with the situation,” she pointed out. “As an Elder, you know this.” “Oui. But with your indulgence, Nikki, I will talk with him. Sometimes Nicholas needs a reminder of where his true duty lies,” LaCroix indicated flatly yet with a touch of anger. “Very well. I shall leave it to you. You will let me know how this turns out?” she requested. “I shall. Has my request been met?” he inquired. “Your car is waiting,” she told him. “Blue sedan out back gassed up and ready to go.” She handed him the keys. “Bon chance.” “Merci,” he accepted, taking the keys and giving her a slight bow. For a minute, he looked at her again. While she wasn’t Nick, Nikki was a loyal child. If only Nicholas would listen to her. With that, he left, driving off toward the highway and Amherst to the northwest. You must succeed, LaCroix, for all of our sakes. She drank again from her glass and hoped for the survival of the Community after the incident was over. **** [Amherst—Dave’s house] After returning from Cappuccino Express, Dave slept for a while at his grandmother’s. As much as he wanted to keep going, he had to admit that the others were right. Sooner or later, he would collapse without sleep even if he were running on adrenaline and purpose. Accordingly, he managed about seven hours of uneasy rest. After sunset, he headed home, managing to avoid his mother in the process. He locked himself in the lab, setting to work on his preparations. As with the encounter at the dinner theater from three months earlier, he had to be ready for anything and everything. Consequently, he started mixing and mashing herbs almost immediately. He let the water solution settle in its tubes. That’s prepping. Now to deal with these moods. Gram’s right. I need a control on it. Opening the cabinet above the herbal mixing bowl, he found a vial full of large white tablets. Let’s see if the St. John’s Wart is as good as advertised. He gulped down two tablets and chased them with water. Within minutes, his head had cleared for the most part. “That’s better.” Walking across the room, he opened the door to the small closet there. Inside, he found a large rolled up sheet of paper. Taking it out, he unfolded it on the table and studied it. Before him lay a surveyors’ map detailing the Rowenshire house as well as the entire lower valley and vicinity. Can’t be too careful. For the next three hours, he studied the blueprint in front of him, storing away every scrap of information. He also saw several red dots across it and smiled. I just hope my stashes survived two years. After a minute’s consideration, he remembered that these places were scattered in various types of terrain and one or two supply piles were buried in the woods. One right at the base of the hill had a crude bow hidden with it. “When you get down there, Dave, first scout a bit. Then set up a shelter and perimeter. You’ll need to hunt and fish for food. I’ll have to figure out a way to cook and cut the meat without drawing the animals too close to camp. Fortunately, the berries should be in bloom down there,” he reminded himself, listing the steps he would need to go through to survive. Then he rolled the map back up and returned it to the closet before going back to the herbs. Grinding at them with his pestle, he wanted to get everything ready before he went to bed that night. __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(16/38) Date: Wed, 15 Jun 2005 06:17:04 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 Chapter 11[Cemetery] [A/N: “Touch the Night” was composed by Fred Molin and sung by Lori Yates on the first Forever Knight Soundtrack. Dahak is from "Xena" and "Hercules" so I don't claim copyright there.] As soon as the sun had set, Nick left Janet’s house. In between brief catnaps, he worried about the developing situation. As the Empress had correctly deduced, he was having a moral crisis. His loyalties were caught between the Community and his longtime colleague and friend. After dressing, he went out into the darkness. Making sure that nobody saw him, he took off for the cemetery. As he entered the burial place, he looked around for Lorenzo’s grave. I should have asked Janet where it is. “Lookin’ fer something, Nicolas?” the Witch asked, appearing in front of him. “Ye jus’ missed my boy. What ye seek is there.” She pointed toward the big oak on the other side of the cemetery. “Staking out your victims now, are we? That’s low even for you, Lichtenfeld,” he assessed. “Feelin’ high an’ mighty tonight, are we? An’ how many victims do ye have, brave Crusader? Includin’ ME!” she accused. “I know of yer task. Ye won’t do it. I know ye can’t.” “And if I have to?” he inquired. “I will to keep him from the eternity of darkness you’d lock him into.” His eyes turned yellow and he let his fangs descend. “I’d rather have a mercy killing on my conscience than allow another to wander through this dark Hell.” She smiled ironically. “Can it be? A vampire with a conscience!” She cackled wickedly. “What a pair ye two make! Both defy yer natures an’ destinies. Nay, Nicolas, ye canna stop what my sire and I have planned for my Child. Jus’ like ye canna stop what Lucien has ordained for ye!” She looked around the yard and hissed, “Not them too!” In a flash of white light, the Empress appeared. “You’re wrong on both counts. Begone, foul demoness! We’ll have issue soon enough! For now, Nicolas has his issues and he certainly doesn’t need your presence. And those children had better not be harmed.” “The brats are well fer now! Their destinies are fixed. An’ na even ye can say different, Elf creature!” the ghost challenged. The Empress shrugged. “The strong of heart forge their own destinies. And David has a larger destiny than the meager one you’d lock him into. Or is your sire frightened that he’ll have to answer to his demon lord if he fails?” “Demon lord?” he asked. “Yes,” the Elf-Queen declared. “One you’ve run into in the past. Dahak.” He recalled the very scene that she referred to. “That’s where the fire came from at the museum!” “Yes,” the Witch admitted. “An’ my destiny is to create the second Destroyer. My boy will be that creature.” “I doubt that would happen,” the Empress countered. “Whether Nicolas intervenes or not.” She looked skyward. “It seems we have still further company.” Nick’s senses felt the familiar vibrations. “Him now?” LaCroix landed on the grass in the midst of this gathering. “Talking with ghosts and pixies are we, Nicholas? Really now!” “As smug as ever, ain’t ye, Lucien?” the ghost supposed. “You?” the Elder wondered. “Where did you crawl out of?” “A rock like yers. Go back to where ye came from! Ye shall not interfere w’ my Child. Control yer own boy first! If ye can!” She disappeared from view. “I agree with her but for different reasons. Leave, Lucius, before you set a terrible stream of events in motion,” the Empress concurred. “You don’t command me or Nicholas, Elf-Witch,” the General retorted. “Rest assured, I can do more than simply ‘command’, Vampire. Mighty you may be among your own kind but either myself or Lichtenfeld can more than deal with you. As for you, Nicolas, you know where your allegiance in this affair truly lies. Listen to your heart and not this butcher,” the Empress countered matter of factly. “You know where your duty lies, Nicholas,” LaCroix told the younger vampire. “Do I? I wonder. You would kill a boy who just wants a normal life? What does that make us, LaCroix? I say it makes us monsters! No, this contest will take place as he set it up. Even if I have to kill him afterwards, his friends will at least be free. Lorenzo would want it that way,” Nick indicated, stalking toward the gravesite. “Who? What foolishness is this? Nicholas, you owe nothing to mortals! You owe all to ME!” “I owe what? Loyalty? Fealty? What have you given me except pain? And what have we given the boy except hardship?” Nick wondered. “Leave me, LaCroix. I wouldn’t expect you to understand.” The Elder grabbed him. “I understand that you are MY CREATURE! MY CREATION!” “Your toy,” Nick insisted, shaking himself free. “I know what I have to do, LaCroix. Leave!” LaCroix growled, letting his eyes glow at Nick. “Very well! But I will be watching!” With that, he took off into the night. “Very well done,” the Empress complimented. There is hope for him yet. Goddess, may you grant him absolution one day if he makes it through this test successfully. “You know what to do. I will not lecture you, Nicolas de Brabant. Rather, I would remind you that the boy is not yours to kill despite your Community’s wishes. He will be your greatest ally and one day, your salvation. Help him find his way through the darkness so that he may one day do the same for you. That is my wish for both of you. Listen to your heart and go in peace, Crusader.” With that, she vanished. He sighed and walked the rest of the way to his friend’s grave. Standing before it, he bowed his head, feeling ashamed at the Community’s request. “Buona nochte, Lorenzo. I’m sure you know what’s going on down here. You’d be proud of your grandson. He struggles but he’s resisting the dark call so far. The signs are there though. He will fall. I have to tell you…the Community has ordered me to kill him. I wonder if that is not the best way rather than have him live a life of darkness like mine? I would not curse someone like this. Yet he has a destiny so the Elf-Woman says. And then, you trusted me with your affairs and family like a brother.” As his feelings came crashing out, he heard a song from a Chicago club he’d been in not too long before: In the darkest reaches of the heart You find a crossroads there Without a sign, without a mark Where only others dare You can touch the night It's only hard to understand You can touch the night Like the touching of her hand See the others seeking truth They don't know where to look We can see behind the stone And go where we must go You can touch the night It's only hard to understand We can touch the night Like the touching of her hand Like the moon that tracks the wolf We seek another light It can always pull us through Help us reach an endless night We can touch the night It's only hard to understand We can touch the night Like the touching of her hand In the darkest reaches of the heart You find a crossroads there Without a sign without a mark Where others only dare You can touch the night It's only hard to understand You can touch the night Like the touching of her hand This is a crossroads. One from which I don’t know the way. And yet, only I can guide David through the darkness. How do I do it? A bloody tear dribbled down his face. “What do I do?” “You heard her,” a familiar voice replied. To Nick’s left, a slender man in white with black hair and a gentle smile appeared. “Lorenzo?” Nick asked incredulously. “Yes, my old friend. I’ve been sent to speak with you and David both,” the angel informed him. “It’s not as hard as you’re making it out to be, Nick. Go with your plan and trust in my grandson. He’s very resourceful. Even now, he prepares for the ordeal to come.” “Prepares? How can he?” Nick wondered. “How do you think he survived all of these years?” the spirit inquired. “Yes, Nick, he knows the Witch better than anyone. And he has sworn vengeance against her.” “In that place, that alone could kill his chances,” Nick told him. “Indeed, it could,” Lorenzo concurred. “But I don’t think it will now. A new element has entered the equation in the past year. One that will keep him focused.” “His friends particularly the Alvarez girl,” Nick realized. “Exactly. They have taught him about friendship. She has taught him about love and dares to consider him worthy of it…even if those two won’t admit to each other,” Lorenzo explained. “It isn’t mercy to kill him now, Nick. If you do, David will go to Hell or worse. He has to stop the Curse and redeem himself. Not for what he has done but for what he is, as well as for those who preceded and will follow him. For better or for worse, this is the way it is. You can’t kill him. He has to travel the dark road to whatever end it holds for him and you both. Go in peace, my friend and brother. Watch over my Great Hope.” With that, he disappeared. Watch over his ‘Great Hope,’ he says. Go with your heart. Great, talk about a guilt trip. He sighed and took off, heading for Janet’s once again. __________________________________ Discover Yahoo! Get on-the-go sports scores, stock quotes, news and more. Check it out! http://discover.yahoo.com/mobile.html Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(17/38) Date: Thu, 16 Jun 2005 01:59:24 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 Chapter 12 [Dave’s house—1:00 PM on the next day] After a four hour nap, Dave went back downstairs to his lab and checked on his supplies. Sure enough, everything was ready. Accordingly, he filled the hollow bomb shells and several arrowheads with the paste. “Maybe I can get Gram or Mrs. Alvarez to drive me to the range for some shooting practice.” Packing the items into his coat pockets, he locked the door and headed upstairs. “Hopefully I’ll see this place again,” he told himself. Studying the penciled map, he assessed, “Vegas says I’m a 35 point underdog. Typical day in the life of Dave. Maybe I might get to kick ass after all.” He glanced around, feeling something in the air and grabbing an herb bomb. “All right. I know you’re there! Come out!” “Always ready for a fight, aren’t you?” his grandfather asked, appearing in front of him. “Grandpa? How?” the younger man inquired in awe. “This has to be a trick.” The spirit smiled and shook his head. “No. As I told Nicholas, I have returned to speak with you both before you head into darkness.” “But I have to go alone or else!” he protested. “I won’t risk my friends!” His grandfather shook his head. “Your jest had more truth in it than you think, Dave. She has prepared for you. Forces press in from the outside as well—their interests both in keeping you alive and seeing you dead. Going in alone is suicide.” Dave bowed his head and shrugged. “If it is, big deal. They go free. Remember your last words to me? ‘Hang onto love’?” “I also told you not to give into hate,” his grandfather reminded him. “But already, it festers inside of you like a cancer, splitting you from yourself. Whatever happens this weekend, you’ll be forever changed. You and those who care about will start down a road to somewhere I can’t see. It will be a torturous way full of pitfalls and turmoil.” “Pain. What a unique concept,” Dave joked sarcastically. “No matter what, I’m not losing anymore to that glowing horror show.” “Whatever happens today, I can tell you, she’ll still be there. The Curse will tear again and again at you. You though are the One here to stop her and her dark father. Yours is a destiny that is special,” the angel told him. He smiled warmly. “You have no idea how proud I am of you right now. Giving of yourself the way you are is the ultimate act of love.” “For my friends, I can’t do anything else,” Dave noted. “They’re the family I never had.” “Your mother loves you,” the angel affirmed. “Then why does she treat me the way she does? She belittles me! She can’t take what I say as the truth? I can accept that she’s afraid! BUT SO AM I! SO ARE WE ALL! Two nights ago, I saw what’s waiting for me in that hellhole today. Whoever this dark man is, he’s nastier than the ghost and she took you away from us! They’re not taking them away from me! And Mom won’t stop me from doing what’s right just because she and Dad don’t have the spine to clean up their damn mess! That’s why it’s me and it’s always me that has to clean up the mess!” Lorenzo said nothing. He’s right. That’s why he’s the One. Randy will never amount to much other than one task. Cybelle will be a great priestess one day but that day is not now. Nicholas, watch him during this trial. “Such is your destiny, my grandson. Go forth and make me proud.” “Even if I’m alone, I won’t do any less,” Dave vowed. “You’re never alone. I’m always with you. No matter how dark things get, hang onto love. You got Cybbie out, remember?” Seeing him nod, Lorenzo continued, “All right. Now get your friends out of there. And while we’re talking about them, I’ll need to watch that girl, Karen, I think?” “Don’t start too,” Dave retorted. “She is special, Dave. You both have a destiny that will shape everything around you. When you and she feel the time is right and believe in each other then your path will start unfolding,” the angel foretold. “I must go. Time is short. It is already past noon and your Grandmother Dubois is here.” Before he could leave, Janet entered the house and stared in disbelief. “Lorenzo?” “Hello, Janet. Sorry I can’t stay longer but I must return. Thank you for watching out for him. Tell Beatrice that I love her,” Lorenzo replied. “Dave, be strong and believe in that love.” With that, he disappeared. “Wow,” the teenager gasped. “Unbelievable. This must be something else if he came back from the Other Side.” “He loves you and wanted to see you before this whole mess started,” she agreed. “Got everything?” He nodded. “I could use a coffee. First, I would like to go by the flower shop.” “The McKenzies are meeting us at the Silver Buffet. They and the Alvarezes are treating you to dinner. Knowing what you’re up against and the fact that you’re probably not to go to be eating for a couple of days, we figured dinner would be a good thing. Then we’ll visit Mrs. Colavitto one more time before going by the Cappuccino Express on the way out.” “Dr. Alvarez drives me. I don’t want you going anywhere near there,” he directed. “You may get to risk suicide but the least I can do is see you off,” she countered; her eyes watering. “My brave boy.” She kissed his brow, wishing that his father was more like him. “Come on, you need to eat.” Looking at the house one last time, he asked, “Do you have it?” “Grandma Alvaro gave it to me this morning. She wanted you to read a few verses in it. It’s waiting in the car,” Janet informed him. “She means the Dark Wood of Error,” he explained. “I’ll read the passage when we’re heading over there.” **** [Silver Buffet—Thirty minutes later] Colin McKenzie comforted his wife as they worried about their daughter’s safety. “It’s going to be okay, Mariah.” “I want to believe that but what if something happens? That’s our daughter out there along with Karen and the others!” Mariah protested. “We have to believe that Dave knows what he’s doing,” Dr. Alvarez stated. Seeing the teenager in question enter with his grandmother, he waved him over. “Dave, are you ready?” He nodded. “As ready as I’ll ever be. They’re coming home no matter what happens to me.” “How do you know that?” Mr. McKenzie demanded. “I made a deal with those creeps. I go through with this gauntlet and they let the others go when it’s over. That’s the best I could do but at least, they should be safe,” Dave noted. “And what about you?” Mariah inquired. “I have to survive two days and three nights in Hell. I’ve done it before but I imagine she’s got a few extra surprises for me down there,” the teenager told them. “Surprises? As in what?” Caroline wondered. “She can stir up the animals and the townspeople against me. I imagine old Fire Puss will take its crack at me too,” Dave guessed. “Fire Puss?” Mr. McKenzie asked. “Her fire demon. Twenty feet tall, bad attitude. The whole nine yards,” Dave commented. “Look, I will get them out of there, all right? That’s all that matters. Now let’s eat. It’s going to be a long three days.” __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com Subject: xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R)(18/38) Date: Thu, 16 Jun 2005 02:01:33 -0700 From: "David J. Duncan" To: FKFIC-L@LISTS.PSU.EDU xover: The Hunt (Dubois Chronicles 1.07)(R) David J. Duncan 1986/2004 For notes & such, please see Part 1 [Mrs. Colavitto’s room—4:30 PM] After a fairly quiet meal, Dave walked into his teacher’s hospital room to find the latter sleeping. As he turned to leave, she called out, “Hold it, Dave. I know your footsteps anywhere.” He shrugged. “I’m one of a kind.” “You can say that again,” she concurred, giving him a warm smile. “You’re doing this?” “Do I have a choice?” he replied. “You don’t—no. That’s the way you are and that ghost knows it. I wish I had some pithy words of wisdom for you. Sorry. I can pray for you though,” she answered his question. “I’m more concerned about that burn and your husband probably wanting to kill me,” Dave worried. “I’m dealing with this burn. As for my husband, I explained to him that you’re not at fault. Besides…he was there at the banquet when she attacked you. He told me you got her out of there without any one getting hurt. He’s pulling for you too,” she mentioned. “Now to business….” “Yes?” he asked. She inquired, checking as she always did before he went out on an interview, “I trust you’ve done your research and prepared before this?” “Of course. Don’t I always?” he assured her. “You do. I wanted to make sure. Seriously, Dave, keep your head. I expect a full oral briefing when this is over,” she told him. Taking his hand, she added, “Stay focused. We don’t want to lose you.” “Not if I can help it,” he promised. “Rest. I want to see you in the newsroom when I get back.” “I’ll see what I can do,” she retorted pleasantly. “Go on. You’ve only got a couple of hours until sunset.” He kissed her forehead. “You’re something else, Mrs. C. Take care.” “That’s my line to you,” she replied pleasantly. After he left, she shook her head and wiped a tear from her eye. Come back safely, Dave, and bring the others with you. Chapter 13 [Rowenshire—Town Center 5:00 PM] Even as Dave prepared back in Amherst, rumors had circulated throughout the small town of the pariah’s return. While he and the other Duboises had been there, the ghost had run rampant, frightening the children and causing mayhem everywhere. The last few nights had seen her resuming these activities. As such, the townspeople assembled on the green just before sunset with their rifles, shotguns and torches. They had let the pariah leave once before. This time, they would deal with him once and for all. The leader, a big man with black hair and a matching beard, got up on a gnarled tree stump. “Folks, it’s time to take back what’s ours!” The crowd cheered. “To the damned house!” the man bellowed. “We go through the woods so that ghost won’t get us!” The mob followed, wanting to finish this business once and for all. **** Meantime, the town’s minister stood on his church’s front step and shook his head. Brother Andrew recalled the boy in question. While Dave had been a strange one, the clergyman had never considered him a danger to anyone. On the contrary, if the others would have left him alone, he would have been peaceable enough. I can’t let anything happen to him. If the rumors are true, he needs to know about this mob. “Where will you go?” his assistant, a red haired teenage girl, asked. “To the house,” he indicated. “Nancy, I need a favor. At last light, ring the bell twelve times. I don’t care what the mob thinks. David is not responsible for the ghost. He’s cursed.” “I know. I wish I could have done more for him before,” she lamented. “You gave him a chance to escape with his life. I know not why he returns now but it must be serious. Please, Nancy, we must give him hope against this horror.” With that, he got into his beat up pick up truck and headed up the road. Be careful, Dave. Nancy agreed with the minister despite what her father, the mob’s leader, thought of her former c