Game On.

The game begins

Luke was the first to react. "Library of shadows? What the hell do you mean? Where's Pete?"
Taltha's smile widened. "Your brother is quite safe. You can have him back, if you like." She paused dramatically "Well, if you win the game. Are you going to play the game?"
Cat could see that Luke was about to argue and grabbed his arm. "Luke, don't. Don't you see? They're not human. They're Shadowmen."
Talitha eyed Cat, her face still a beaming smile, but her eyes filled with disgust. The feeling was mutual.
"Very good!" Talitha simpered. "And from that I can tell that you probably know the only way to get him back is to play. So, will you play?"
"Yes" answered Luke automatically.
"Wait one minute!" Burst out Moira. "This could be dangerous! You can't just jump in without knowing what your setting yourself up for!"
Julian stepped forwards.
"Magic. Mystery. Adventure. Secrets revealed. Desires unlocked. Challenge." His eyes never left Cat.

Cat held his gaze, feeling something stir within her. Something fierce and fiery, a spark deep in her soul.
"I'll play."
Julian's smile widened, his eyes glinting.

"Me too." Harry spoke up, suddenly brave.
"Well, I already agreed." Said Luke.
Moira was next to agree. "I'll play. Petey's my brother too."
"I guess it would look really bad if I said no, wouldn't it?" Lindsay spoke up, shrugging her shoulders. "Ah, well, yeah, whatever. I like Pete, I'll play."

"Excellent!" Chimed Talitha "This is gonna be so much fun!" She clapped her hands.
Suddenly, Cat was alone with Julian and Talitha. She turned around, checking behind her. Nothing. "Wha... where did everyone go?"
Talitha hopped of the desk, stalking towards her. "Ah, I forgot to mention. You start alone. Don't worry, you may find the others later. Unless you loose."
"But, why me? Why am I starting alone? Where are the others? Tell me!"
"Well, we had to have a main player, and Julian suggested you. Aren't you lucky? Aww, but don't worry, it isn't that hard. All you have to do is solve the riddles, end the stories and reach the top, all before dawn tomorrow. I suggest you start up the stairs."
And with that both she and Julian faded into the shadows.