WITHOUT

The Mission

I kept to the country roads, tried to avoid any mayor highway. Any road that might have speed-cameras, or police cars. Basically places where we could be stopped, I was sure my driver's licence was up to date (But, I didn't want to take the risk) All I needed, was some random cop doing a routine check....And, he/she spotted Ethan, EB and Dog-boy!

Cause there would be nooo explaining them.

Ethan was pissed, I'd numbed his hands....Webbed his insides, EB looked like she been dragged hard through a forest. Clark was most unimpressed there. And, Dog-boy kept doing "dog-stuff" (Other than that, he was a model pet!)      But, no amount of "I know what this looks like!" would explain anything, at all!

So, best course of action - Drive till I can't any more...Just get home!      (I was also quietly praying the petrol held out too)

••AFTER AN HOUR OR TWO••

"I feel a light refreshment would be nice. And maybe a room for the night.."      Clark looked over at Hector (EB had her arms around him, she was gently stroking his head)     Ethan kept shifting in his seat.

"A quick bathroom-break, wouldn't go amiss either.."       Clark stared into my rear view mirror.     I had to agree in the end.    A strong need for a coffee made me focus for the nearest cafe/coffee house I could find.

Half an hour later....What we needed was found. Clark got me to "wave" a hand over EB, she was to be re-shoed...Clark tidied her hair for her. She looked over to Hector and Ethan (They couldn't be left sitting in the car) I did a quick scan of the area....A few shops (All shut now), a few small office blocks (Lights out there) Two restaurants, a bar....Some "nite" life entertainment spots. Country America - Gotta love it!

There looked to be a hotel between the bar and the shopping area buildings. We would stay there, but....To eat! I chose the less lit of the two restaurants (We would go briefly there) eat, drink - Move! Clark took hold of Ethan, EB claimed Dog-boy. I was left to lead the way, I'm guessing "wave-the-hand" at any eyes that might look too hard.

We were seated quickly.....Given a short run down on "specials" of the establishment (Served glasses of water) Clark looked around, smiled to herself...."So, this how people dine now. Casual dressing, music coming out of the ceiling! Very interesting!.."

"It's not bad. The place doesn't smell, that's gotta be a plus.." I smelt pine. This town had a fresh smell. Clark nodded.

"That dreadful smell you encountered at the last town, was "Witches Curse". Used to rid places of anything unwanted. Plus, if breathed in for too long....Makes one release their body gases! Improper behaviour, if I must say so..." Clark shook her head, her eyes automatically flicked over between EB and Ethan (They weren't doing anything. But still...)

"Our other young friend. Do you really think, there is help for him?.." We all looked to Hector. Hector was peeping at EB (She kept gently poking him and smiling)      I sat a minute, Stella and I knew of some magic.     I felt, I had the strength to definitely assist Dog-boy in some way (Does he have a name?   He needed one)       The look in EB's eyes told me, she knew some things (Would have to sit her down, and inquire)

Some of her abilities were still in Black Magic, her speciality : Curse Magic.     Stella had long ago accepted, the cursed side of things were what made EB different (And, who she really was)

"Something can be done.   If my parents are still visiting.   We will have to assure them in every way, the situation is under control.    And....Dog-boy will the least of our worries.   But.   Clark..."        My eyes looked at Ethan.