GWA28E

**START**

**Petz versus Niam.**

Petz was in her flat preparing dinner. Usually that relaxed her after a long day's work, but that evening she felt uneasy. If only her sister's plan would work! Even though she knew it could be very risky and even dangerous, she wasn't scared because she trusted her. However, she did feel the uneasiness of uncertainty and regretted not having accompanied her to lend a hand. But as Kalie explained it had to be that way for the enemy to be discovered. She sighed, her sister was incorrigible, they were always arguing, but deep down they both loved each other very much. Besides, she was a smart and resourceful girl. Like that time, she remembered the way she went to the sailors for help in adapting to life on Earth. Both Artemis and Luna got them all the documentation and history they could find. When their smiling sister handed it over, anyone would have sworn they were born and raised in Japan.  Petz, like the rest of them, was overjoyed. They even celebrated with their friends. The truth is that every time she recalled her conversion into an ordinary woman, she felt a pang of conscience. Those girls were wonderful, and thank heaven they changed her life and those of her sisters.

-They were always wonderful friends. We have so much to thank them for. - She said to herself, regretting it now. - And to think that once I wanted to kill them all... I will never forgive myself, I die of shame every time I remember.

Looking back, she remembered when she had undertaken that last mission with her sister Calaverite. Petzite felt invigorated as never before by the energy of that staff. Now everything seemed possible. She could feel her power growing in a limitless way. She thought, with exhilaration, that she would accomplish her task, kill the traitors, and even be more powerful than Rubeus. She could return to Nemesis as a heroine and even win the love of the infant Sapphire. Perhaps even overthrow Prince Diamond. Then she and her beloved would rule their world. Why not? The Wiseman doesn´t care whoever was willing to pursue the plans to conquer the Earth. And at first everything went very well. She managed to capture her younger sisters and even taught the Moon warriors a lesson. Eventually she attacked her own sister Calaverite because she didn't trust her. She was always manipulative and devious. If in her fatuity she thought she could betray her, she was going to learn once and for all who was the smartest and most powerful in the family. In fact, she brought her down along with Kermesite and Bertierite. These two were saved by the sailors, which didn't surprise her. What did surprise her was that Sailor Moon herself took care of her other sister. She immediately decided to switch sides when it suited her, she was another traitor!

-I knew I was right to try to kill you! - Petzite said with a tinge of contempt. -

- How could you do such a thing? - One of the sailors reproached her. -

-No human would even think of killing his own flesh and blood. - Another one of the warriors replied. -

-What a load of nonsense. Sisters must sacrifice themselves if it is convenient to accomplish their mission. - She replied haughtily. -

She was about to launch another bolt of lightning, but as she was about to do so, one of the warriors caused a dense mist to blind her. She could not see her enemies. Before she knew it, another attack, a kind of energy chain, snatched the sceptre from her hand. Then she suffered a barrage of electric sparks that knocked her down, making her scream in pain. By the time she was able to recover she was on the floor of the suspension bridge. Her sisters gathered at her side.

- Are you all right, Petzite," - Kermesite, who looked really worried asked her. -

But she wasn't buying it. Surely it was some trick. They must believe that she still possessed the staff. In any case, she seemed strange. All that desire to kill and destroy was fading. Still, she felt humiliated and confused. Her pride was very hurt. She slapped her younger sister away as she bitterly shouted.

- Don't touch me! I can't bear to be pitied by any of you.

The women looked at her with sorrow and great concern, but said nothing. Then, above them all, the voice of her boss was heard, seeming to be sifted with sarcasm as he declared,

-Well said Petzite.

-Rubeus... I, I didn't mean to..." - She was able to reply, trying to apologise. -

However, her superior didn't let her continue, commenting smugly in turn.

-You've done a good job, bringing the warriors and the traitors together in one place. I really didn't expect you to be able to defeat them. I'll be the one to do it.

- And what are you going to do with me? - She was able to ask. -

-Since I don't need you anymore, you'll be sacrificed. You are no longer of any use to me. I'll kill you all together. - Her boss said with mockery. -

Petz opened her mouth in disbelief. So it was true what she had been told about that scoundrel. Her sisters had been right, they had wanted to warn her and Calaverite! She could barely muster a breath when she saw a reddish gleam in Rubeus' eyes, and then he declared with visible glee.

          This is the secret power of the staff - it opens a door to the void dimension!

And before anyone could react a huge black hole opened up in the bridge and began to suck in everything within its reach. Everyone held on to whatever they could to avoid being sucked in. Satisfied, Rubeus vanished with a sadistic smile of triumph. Petz heard the warriors trying to decide what they could do. Even a black she-cat with them said desperately.

- There's no way we can close the door to the void dimension!

Then she had an idea, gathering all the strength she still had left, she stood up and refuted it.

- Yes, of course there is! If I throw all the power left in my body against the staff and blow it up, the hole will close. The hole will eventually close.

-You can't, it's too dangerous. - One of the warriors warned her. She was holding on to a bar of the bridge as she grabbed one of her companions to try not to be dragged down. - You could lose your life.

But Petzite wasn't about to give up on her plan. Besides, it was all her fault. Her duty should have been to protect her sisters. Instead, driven by that unnatural lust for glory and revenge, she almost killed them. She was truly ashamed of her actions. She remembered the promise she had made to her mother before she left for court. She was to be the one to fill that role with the others. She tried for years, but little by little they were corrupted by that evil Wiseman and his intrigues. The same as the rest. She recalled with great sadness that time she visited her mother. The last time...

- Mother! - She sighed, letting a couple of tears fall. - I have failed you. Forgive me.

          When she arrived home, some service droids opened the door. The girl passed by and asked in a hesitant tone.

- Mummy? It's Petzite... Are you here...?

Then a rather gaunt figure with straight hair emerged from a room. To her horror the girl recognised her mother. She came almost staggering in, and when she saw the young woman she stopped short, pointing an accusing finger at her.

-You... are...

-I'm Petzite, Mom. - The girl asserted, trying to smile in spite of that impression. -

- You're one of them! - her interlocutor exclaimed. - Get away from me, you're not my daughter.

-But mum. - The frightened girl responded. - It's me... I've come to see you.

But the crazed woman was shaking her head with a rictus of fear and almost despair, muttering in a disjointed way....

-All corrupted. The Black Moon! ...my daughters, my children... Where are they? What have you done with them? - she shrieked now. -

- But mamma! - Petzite could sob, really shocked by this dantesque scene. - It's me!

Although the woman seemed to react by looking at her then with a different expression, she was crying now and rushed to embrace the frightened girl.

-Petzite darling... don't let them capture you too. Don't believe them...

- Capture me? who? what happened to you? where is daddy? - the girl who was totally overwhelmed by it all wanted to know. -

- Dad? –Her mother added in a helpless and tearful tone, now looking around and talking as if to someone else, completely unrelated to her daughter. - "Dad was here, wasn't he? Grandmother...tell me more about the Earth....

The girl could not help crying at the sight of her poor mother's pitiful state. No matter how hard she tried, she could not bring her out of the reverie that possessed her. Finally, she left, mumbling between sobs.

-Goodbye, mother...I love you.

           Then she understood. Perhaps her mother had discovered something. It could be that the plans of that wicked Wiseman...and he might have driven her mad.

-Now I won't fail you any more, mother..." - She thought, rising from the ground with determination after recalling all that, in that terrible gale near the vortex. - I'll fix it!

        And she was ready for anything. She would make amends for her mistakes. She would repay her debt, and even if it meant her death, she would save her beloved sisters and the White Moon warriors. So she pointed one of her hands towards that hole and exclaimed, releasing most of her remaining energy.

- Inner powers!

Unfortunately, she failed. Her energy was sucked into that void and then she herself followed it. Just when she thought she was going to disappear, something grabbed her by the wrist. It was the whip of her sister Calaverite. With astonishment she saw that it was the same girl she had been about to kill, who was trying to save her.

- You? - she exclaimed in astonishment. -

-I won't let you be the only heroine in this story. - Kalie replied with her usual sarcasm. -

-We've always quarrelled, but we're sisters for a reason. - Kermesite added, crawling to the mouth of the hole to grab Petz's hand. -

-Without you we wouldn't be the four sisters of the Ayakashi-Kurozuki family. - Bertierite finished off by grabbing her hand as well as he could. -

- You too! - She exclaimed excitedly. -

However, in spite of all this demonstration of sisterly love and fortitude on the part of the girls, the suction force was getting stronger and stronger. Soon her sisters would not be able to stand it any longer. Petz resigned herself to her fate.

-I deserve it. - She thought bitterly and sadly. - But they do not.

              She wasn't sure how much time passed, but she saw a multi-coloured glow and then there was a huge explosion. When it dissipated, she found herself on the ground with her sisters. The hole and the void had disappeared as if they had never existed. Kermesite was the first to react, asking Sailor Moon.

-Sailor Moon. Please, help my sisters.

And before she knew it, that warrior summoned the power of the Silver Crystal and both she and her sister Calaverite were enveloped in a pink glow that spun them around giving them a great feeling of joy and relief. All the negative energy that remained within her was swept away. When that happened, she found herself on her feet, dressed in normal human clothes and full of bewilderment. However, it was a wonderful feeling, especially when she embraced her other sisters. As the warriors approached, she could only stammer excitedly.

-Thank you, thank you so much!

- This is love, Petzite. - A joyful Bertie declared. -

-And now we're together again, just like when we were children. - Cooan added with patent happiness. -

-They were right. We should have listened to them. - Kalie admitted, excited in turn. -

-But luckily it all ended well. - Bertie encouraged her. -

-And now we are free. - Cooan added. -

-That's true. We'll have to start all over again, though. On this planet. - The eldest of the sisters sighed, smiling now. -

-Don't worry about that. We'll help you. - Minako affirmed. -

-Yes, count us in. - Makoto added, offering her hand to Petz. -

The young woman looked at the gesture with visible surprise, still hesitatingly shook it and could hardly say, completely overwhelmed by it.

-I'm so sorry. I tried to kill you all. I said terrible things to you. I don't deserve you to be so generous to me...in fact, I don't deserve anything. - She sighed in dismay. -

-But then you tried to save us. - Sailor Moon declared. -

-I don't expect you to forgive me. I can't forgive myself for what I've done. - The girl mused, lowering her head in visible shame. - Nor do I think I ever can.

-It's a new life, Petz. - Bertie encouraged her. -

-Yes, you have to leave the past behind. From now on we can be happy living here and helping others. Who knows? Maybe the rest of our people can be saved too. - An optimistic Cooan asserted. -

But it was Calaverite who placed her hands on her younger sister's shoulders and replied in a sad tone.

-Not all of them. I know Rubeus well and he will not give up his mission. Less now than he did before. Well, he's running out of time.

And looking at the warriors as well, she warned them with her best will.

-Be very careful of him. He is very dangerous. And he will be more furious than ever when he discovers that his plan has failed. He will be desperate and capable of any madness.  I wish we could help you, but we are of no use to you now. - she remarked regretfully.

The other sisters looked at each other with regret and concern. Petzite herself admitted.

-Nothing will stop him from carrying out his mission. He was already like that in Nemesis. And he's gotten worse over the years. I fear for you.

-You are our friends now. You don't have to worry about that anymore. - Rei answered to add with perhaps a little more trepidation. - What I don't know is where we can put you up.

-Don't worry. – Cooan intervened, who cheerfully declared. - Bertie and I have seen some flats for rent. Mako-chan was right. There's a big, well-priced one near where she lives.

-The only problem is that we don't have any money. - Bertie sighed. -

-That's true. - Her little sister admitted with a sheepish gesture. - I forgot. We don't get paid for a few days.

-Well, maybe we can lend you something together. - Ami said. -

-Well, I don't have much. - Usagi sighed, reaching into her pockets and pulling out an empty fund. - More like nothing really.

-Neither do I. - Minako said in a hurry. - It's just that I bought a really cute bag the other day...

-I have a few yen left. - Makoto was able to say a bit embarrassed. -

-I don't have hardly anything left at this point in the month either. - Rei mused. - Maybe my grandfather can lend me some.

But it was Calaverite who, in a good-natured way, put them all at ease.

-That won't be necessary, girls. You see. Before leaving on this mission, as I didn't have it all together and I didn't trust Rubeus, I decided to take a small insurance policy with me.

And to the surprise of her sisters and the warriors, the girl touched the ribbon she was wearing. It was the only thing that had not disappeared after her purification. Indeed, she smiled as she checked something and declared as she let down her hair and a few small stones fell out of the ribbon's fabric.

-They are our ancient droid jewels. They lost their evil power when they were purified, but they are still gems of great value. I took a few of them. As severance pay for wrongful dismissal. I'm afraid I forgot to tell our former master Rubeus. Do you think he'll be angry? - She asked in a falsely mawkish and somewhat childish tone. -

The sisters laughed with amused complicity. They would have loved to see the look on their ex-boss's face when he discovered that, in addition to having failed in his mission, all those stones had disappeared. There would have been five or six in all.

-It's not like it's a fortune. - Petz said, adding good-naturedly in return. - But it will certainly help us to start a new life. You've been very clever, sis. - She smiled at Kalie, who smiled back as she winked. -

The sailors congratulated them in turn and after a while they said goodbye. The four sisters made their way to the apartment building after passing a jewellery shop. There they had the stones appraised and were offered a good sum for them. They accepted and were able to rent a flat. A few days later they bought some beauty products and set up a small shop. Then Calaverite asked the sailors for help and they gave them new identities. They were then able to buy their flat and move into Otafukuya's tenancy. The landlady, Sayaka, was eager to leave the business and relied on Cooan and her sisters. Petz remembered that with a great sense of happiness.

-Wonderful years. Living here as ordinary women is hard, but it has many, many rewards. No twisted schemes to get ahead at court, no longing to destroy. On the contrary. I have found peace and joy..." - She thought gratefully. -

               And, what's more, whenever they could, they met up with their friends. They were all really great girls. She noticed that Cooan had become close friends with Rei, the Guardian Warrior of the planet Mars and priestess of Hikawa Shrine. The two shared an interest in the divinatory arts. Bertie with Ami Mizuno, the Warrior of the planet Mercury, a highly intelligent girl with whom one could spend entire afternoons studying or playing chess. As for Karaberasu, as her sister wanted to be called, she made good friends with Minako Aino, civilian name of the Warrior of the planet Venus. The two of them had a lot in common and used to meet up for shopping and even flirting, discussing fashions, going to karaoke, in short. Later, Petz became good friends with the Guardian Warrior from the planet Jupiter. They would chat about topics they both found interesting. Gradually, she started to meet this girl, named Makoto Kino. They both liked flowers and, why not say it, they didn't dislike going into the kitchen. The girl was certainly an expert. And Petz was delighted when she tasted some of the cakes her friend made. Now she remembered an evening when Mako- chan invited her to her house for the first time.

-Please come in. - The sailor asked as soon as she saw her arrive. -

-Good afternoon. - She smiled at her. - Thank you very much for inviting me. - She bowed slightly. -

- Not at all, it's a pleasure. How are your sisters? - Makoto asked as her guest entered and followed her into the living room.

- Well, thank you for asking. I think Cooan and Bertie were meeting Rei and Ami at the shrine. And my sister Kalie with Minako, to go shopping.

- That way we have time to chat ourselves. - Her interlocutor said with a smile of interest. - How are you doing?

- Well... I can't complain," - Petz smiled shyly as her hostess gently gestured for her to take a seat on the sofa in her living room. -

The guest couldn't help but look at some photos her friend had on a nearby shelf. There she stood with the other warrior girls in their civilian identities. She was also in one of them with a boy she didn't know and two other adults, though in the latter Makoto appeared to be just a child.

-My friend Kenjino. - The sailor explained when she realised that her friend was looking at those pictures. - And my parents.

-I guess you don't get to see them very often. With your work as a Planetary warrior. -Her interlocutor replied. -

- I see Kenjino very occasionally, he's a very good boy. We've been friends since we were little. He's like a big brother to me. And my parents died a long time ago in a plane crash when I was little. - Jupiter explained, her tone and expression saddening. -

-I'm so sorry. I didn't know. - Petz apologised apologetically, cursing herself for being so inopportune. - I... I shouldn't have asked.

-No, please... you have nothing to apologise for. That's life. - Makoto sighed and cheered up her gesture by commenting in a more jovial manner. - I've got some rose tea and some strawberry and cream cake. Would you like some?

- Yes, thank you very much. - Her companion nodded, relieved to put the awkward moment to rest. -

The hostess went to the kitchen to prepare tea while her guest reflected. Petz could understand her very well, she had lost Sapphire and her parents, they didn't really die like the love of her life, but they were left behind in Nemesis. She knew she would never see them again. In a way, she realised that this girl and the rest of the Moon warriors were quite similar to herself and her sisters. It was as if there was a curious relationship. They shared common tastes and hobbies. Just as once upon a time the powers of some were the reverse of those of the others. Fortunately, they were on the same side now. She was glad to be able to count them as friends. They were very good girls. Not to mention the cats and Mamoru. That was what she was thinking when her friend returned with a tray holding a teapot, cups, saucers, sugar and a couple of generous servings of cake.

-I haven't had time to thank you properly for all that you and the others have done for me and my sisters. I am the eldest and it is my duty to look after them. And it is a great joy for me to count you all as friends. In spite of what we did to you, you have welcomed us into this world and each other with enormous generosity, and that is something we can never repay you for. - Petz commented in a quiet and acknowledged voice. -

-We are friends. That's all that matters. -" Makoto answered with a knowing wink. - And you can always count on us. - But now the sailor sighed, adding with regret. - The only thing I regret is that we couldn't help the rest of your clan members...

-You did what you could. We know that. - Her companion hastened to reassure her. -

-Sapphire was a good boy. - Makoto commented in a saddened tone. - He loved you. His last words were for you.

Petz knew, Usagi had already told her that that terrible time, when they went to see them to give them the news of the poor boy's death. Now, however, she was as emotional as then, so much so that a few tears fell as her friend immediately handed her a handkerchief with a gesture between uneasy and sorrowful.

-Sorry, I shouldn't have brought that up. - Makoto apologised. -

-You don't have to apologise at all. - She smiled at her, wiping away her tears in reply. - I knew what was going to happen to him, and I resigned myself to it. At least I keep his gaze in my heart. Now I want to live in this world with my sisters and you and be happy. I am succeeding so far.

- Of course you are. And one day you will meet someone special, I'm sure you will. - Her friend cheered her up, also adding in a more jovial way, to take the edge off the melancholy atmosphere they had created. - And so will I! Let's see when I find the ideal guy who's like my old boyfriend.

They could both smile in a better mood, even more so when Petz added.

-And your cakes are also a wonderful incentive to cheer up. You must give me the recipe for this one you make with strawberries and cream, it's my favourite.

- I'll make something better. - Her friend promised her encouragingly- One day I'll come to your flat and we'll make one....

- As long as my sisters don't eat all of it. You don't know what they're like with sweets! Especially Kalie. - Petz could laugh now. -

            Her hostess joined her in laughter to affirm.

- You haven't seen Usagi devouring pastries!

               And her companion laughed even more. In fact, the two of them did so with pleasure and spent a very pleasant afternoon talking about cooking, plants, fashion and make-up. Of course, they agreed to go out and they arranged a day for the sailor to come and visit them and put her baking classes into practice. Petz was smiling now as she remembered it all. Makoto had become a very good confidant and friend. Perhaps the best friend she had if you excluded her own sisters. In fact, she never had that kind of relationship with anyone. She was always the oldest and was absorbed in her duties. And she was not unaware that the rest of her sisters were concerned to see her so lonely and focused on her work. But thanks to Sailor Jupiter she was able to open up more to the rest of the world and go out from time to time, just like her other sisters did with their respective sailor friends. This way she could relax and get a change of scenery, be more independent from the family and enjoy herself more when she got back together with Kalie, Bertie and Cooan. She was smiling to herself at these memories when a sound she thought was coming from the phone brought her out of her thoughts. When she went to the living room to answer it, she didn't hear it, although she did hear noises coming from her bedroom. She crept over there and opened the door, calming herself with a sigh of relief when she saw her sister Karaberasu opening one of the dresser drawers.

- What are you doing in my bedroom? - she asked, recovered from her fright and showing her usual strangeness and even brusqueness. -

- You see, I wanted to find something to wear, I don't have anything available, you don't mind, do you? - She answered her with a slight caution. -

- No, of course, of course, choose whatever you want, but next time ask me first, OK? - Petz warned her in a better mood. -

- Yes, of course, sorry. - Her sister immediately apologised. -

             And she did it too submissively for her interlocutor to find it normal coming from her. She let it go, though, she didn't feel much like getting into an argument over such nonsense. And she did want to know.

- Did everything go well?

- Everything? - her interlocutor repeated. -

-You know. -Did you get rid of that she-devil? - she asked. -

- Of course I did. - She smiled faintly and then added more casually. - Or I wouldn't be here right now. By the way," Karaberasu asked with an interested expression, "where did you hide it?

- Hiding what? - her older sister asked in surprise. But it soon dawned on her what her interlocutor was referring to. - Ah, the stone! Come, I'll show you," - she opened the cupboard and showed her sister the double bottom where it was hidden. - Here it will be safe from those devils. - She said, satisfied. -

-You're very clever, little sister! - Karaberasu smiled broadly to assure, (with total and ironic sincerity) - I would never have thought to look for it there.

- You have to use your grey matter," - the alluded one smiled in turn, pointing to her temples and wanting to know for her part. - But tell me a bit more about how it went for you.

- Quite well. I've already told you. - She hastened to affirm her interlocutor with complete confidence. -

- So none of those she-devils gave you any trouble? - Petz insisted, relieved that this was the case. - Thank goodness. From what the girls told us, they must be very dangerous and cunning.

- But not as dangerous as me. Don't worry, I managed. In the end I didn't have any problems. Everything was under control. - Her companion assured her tersely and emphatically. -

The phone rang and the eldest sister interrupted the conversation by coming out of her room to answer it.

- Who is it? - She wanted to know and her heart skipped a beat when she heard Karaberasu's voice. -

- Petz, are you all right," – Kalie asked in a voice that was both concerned and reproachful. - Why did you hang up on me before? Did some she-devil attack you?

- I beg your pardon? - The alluded one answered, incredulous. - But I was talking to you just now," she whispered and smiled perceptively past her initial surprise, asking in turn. - I haven't hung up on anyone, aren't you some kind of she-devil?

- How can I be a she-devil, are you stupid or what," –Her sister responded, irritated and frightened at the same time as she told her. - I've just met one, and it wasn't exactly a walk in the park.

- Well, explain to me how it is that there is another Karaberasu here who looks exactly like the one I've always seen, and she was searching my wardrobe, looking for a dress to wear. - She informed her companion, feeling rather puzzled now despite maintaining her distrust. -

- And how long have I been interested in that old-fashioned wardrobe of yours? I wouldn't wear those old-fashioned clothes of yours even if I had to walk around naked! - Her interlocutor cried. -

                 That girl certainly sounded very convincing from the other end of the phone line. It was typical of Karaberasu when they talked about such matters, to use that tone of insolent disdain towards her clothes, combined on this occasion with uneasiness. That made Petz no longer have any doubts about who her real sister was.

- So, if this isn't you, then... - She whispered to make sure the impostor couldn't hear her. -

- It's a trick, you've got to get out of there," - Kalie warned her in a voice that was too frightened for words. - She's one of them! Be very careful. And above all, don't let her see that you've noticed.

Her older sister didn't know what to do. Now she was really worried, and confessed to her friend with great trepidation.

- I just told her where I hid the stone! Wait, I'll go and see if it's still there.

She put down the phone and hurried back to the bedroom, but neither the woman who claimed to be Karaberasu nor the stone were there. Petz then burst into desperate cries cursing her mistake. She calmed down enough to pick up the phone and tell her sister.

- They've stolen it, damn it! I'm sorry, I thought it was you. She looked just like you! - She apologized out of her mind. -

- Calm down - her interlocutor tried to calm her down, now more relieved in spite of everything. - That rock is the least of it. The important thing is that she didn't do anything to you. Listen to me. I've already alerted Cooan and Beruche. They're on their way, I'll join you right away, don't move from the flat. I was afraid of something like that, but I didn't have time to get there. I even tried to contact you, but you didn't answer. The connection was cut off. Thank goodness I called you again. Be very attentive. When I get there, I'll give you a signal so you'll know it's me.

- What sign?

-Something only we know about. - Her sister told her. - In the meantime, don't trust anyone...

Petz nodded even though she couldn't be seen and then replied with an "OK," before hanging up the phone and kicking the couch in frustration. ....

- I let myself be fooled like a fool! - she mumbled, really angry with herself - Damn it!

Meanwhile, the triumphant succubus appeared before the Wiseman with the stone under her arm. Smiling and bowing, she placed it on a pedestal to his great satisfaction, declaring in a triumphant tone.

-I told you I'd get it.

- Excellent," exclaimed the Great Wiseman. - The Great Wiseman exclaimed. - "I am very pleased. You have accomplished your mission very well. It's about time someone was efficient for a change. I will recommend you for a decoration immediately. Be assured that I will inform Colonel Karnoalk to report this to your superiors.

- Thank you, sir, to a colonel no less! - Niam smiled adding with visible contentment, but in a professional manner. -  "I appreciate your praise, but I have not completed my task. I came with the stone as soon as I had the chance to secure the main objective, though I have not yet killed the Justiciera. With your permission I will return and eliminate her, so that I may even be promoted.

The succubus smiled, explaining to her interlocutor how she heard a telephone ringing in the human's house, and when she picked it up, she heard a woman's voice. It was precisely the girl she was pretending to be.

- Petzite? is that you? - She heard that tone of concern and fear that made her rejoice. -

And without answering she hung up immediately. Then she went towards the room of that other woman who surprised her there. But she did not suspect anything when she saw her in the appearance of this other human. The Wiseman nodded slightly in approval.

- You did very well, it was a wise decision to bring the sphere first. I am glad to see that you put cunning before rashness. Go then, and if you succeed, take your promotion for granted. I will see to it personally. - Her superior affirmed with a kindness uncharacteristic of him. - We need competent succubus like you. Perhaps then I shouldn't have to do another summoning to call another of your companions to handle this. A horde captain who has been recommended to me... A certain ILaya... Do you know her?

The she-devil's face became haggard. Of course she knew her well enough, she remembered a few centuries ago, back in the underworld, when she was just a young girl ready to make it big. Even then, she had a long-standing reputation for cruelty and a desire to thrive. Niam was together with Meriak, Iama and Saila, who formed that group of newcomers. Their leader in that squad for admission to Lilith's brigades was precisely ILaya, a tall she-devil with flame-coloured hair and eyes.

- All right, you stupid bitches! - She scolded them with zero politeness. - To be a succubus worthy of our great Mistress Lilith, you will have to learn to fight and manipulate. Because of your special genetics you are able to excite males easily. Both demons and humans, particularly the latter.

-And females too. - An enthusiastic Meriak added. -

This elicited laughter from her companions. The aspirant who had spoken glared at some of them, though she was immediately met with a retort from her superior officer.

-If you like that, I don't see why not. Anyone who serves our purposes.

-But humans are very easy prey for us. - A succubus among the aspirants objected. - I see no need to seduce them.

ILaya allowed herself to look at her with disdain before replying.

-Most of them do, but some might give you a nasty surprise.

And with a gloved hand she took a dagger of sorts and used it to wound the individual in the arm. She let out a high-pitched squeal of pain, bringing a hand to her injured arm and trying to heal it to no avail.

- Why can't I cut off the bleeding? – The succubus exclaimed in disbelief and fear. -

-Easy. Because I used a silver dagger. - ILaya smiled, explaining with glee. - A trophy I took from a human, the one you said was such easy prey, before I finished him off. Silver is infectious to some of us and can be deadly to others. As I'm afraid it is for you, what bad luck, ha, ha, ha!

The rest of the she-devils looked at their unfortunate companion with unconcern.  All except Niam herself who had known this individual since they were small and both abandoned by their parents. That was not uncommon in their infernal circle. In fact, the few friendships between their kind usually came from alliances for survival.

- Kurah! - She mused, trying to help her. -

- Where are you going? - her superior shouted at her. -

Niam couldn't even pretend to answer. ILaya hit her hard, knocking her down. Then she smashed her face with one of her boots, making her scream as she raised her tone at the others.

- This happens to the weak and stupid! We don't need one or the other.

And just as she looked lost, as did her companion, another energetic woman's voice made her superior turn away.

- That's enough! ILaya, leave them alone.

-Captain Mireya. - The woman who was being questioned responded. - I was just teaching them a lesson.

-Well, try not to wipe out your entire group before they learn your lessons. You've already destroyed four succubus so far this month. - Her superior reminded her admonishingly, and then added. -  "It's one thing to set an example, and another to set ten. - It's one thing to set an example and another to decimate our forces. We need to raise a large army.

-As you command. - She had to concede with obvious discomfort. -

It was that other one, with blonde hair and blood-coloured eyes, who emitted a faint aura that healed Kurah's arm. At the same time, she helped Niam herself to her feet. However, when both she and her friend looked at each other relieved by this unexpected rescue, they were both grabbed by the neck with tremendous force by this captain who shouted at them in anger.

- Listen to me, you stupid whores! This is the last mistake you make.

And so she let go of them, dropping them to the ground. They were still trying to recover when Mireya walked away and it was ILaya who, smiling with a mixture of contempt and threatening tone, sentenced.

-Next time I won't be so kind. Nor will the captain be there to save you. Do you understand?

              And they both nodded in dread. In fact, Niam still trembled at the thought of that bitch. She hoped she'd never have to see her around again, since she would rob her of any chance to make a point.

-That is, if she doesn't finish me off first. - She thought with growing fear, then turned to the Wiseman. - Sire. I assure you, I can handle these stupid humans on my own. - She declared confidently. -

-Very well. I'll leave it up to you. - Her interlocutor replied. -

The she-devil bowed to the Great Wiseman with a triumphant smile and disappeared, reappearing again, looking like Karaberasu, in the bathroom of the girls' flat.

- I'll make it! - she said to encourage herself - and I will be the new captain of the horde to recommend.

She walked out of the bathroom quite naturally and headed towards the naïve human who was sitting quietly in the dining room.

- Who was that? - Niam asked, feigning little interest. -

- Nothing important, they wanted to do a telephone survey of me," - the questioner, who did not seem to be in a good mood said. - They're a pain in the ass. By the way," - she asked with a suspicious look. - Where were you?

- I went to the toilet," - the succubus answered quickly, approaching the girl from behind. -

- What are you doing? - Petz asked her suspiciously. -

- I just want to give you a massage" - Niam, smiled and feigned concern in her tone when she asked her. - You're so tense, sis, is something wrong?

- Leave it," - she asked trying not to show her fear, "don't bother. -

        But her hands were already around her neck, although they didn't squeeze at first. The girl was massaging her shoulders and back, which pleasantly surprised Petz. The she-devil was using her energy which made her prey feel comforted. Niam thought that this would not make her suspicious. It couldn't be that an enemy was giving her a massage. Besides, she would take her time. She was going to enjoy this human to celebrate her triumph. For her part, Petz believed that if she were a she-devil, she would have tried to strangle her by now. She even began to doubt it. However, whether she was the real Kalie or not, she had to remain calm so as not to betray her doubts.

- I've moved the stone," - her sister whispered in a reassuring tone. - Don't panic if you don't see it.

- And where did you put it? - Petz asked softly, letting herself be carried away by the situation and also by the growing drowsiness that the warm massage was giving her, confessing almost without realising it. - Somewhere you agreed with the others when you talked to them? Because Beruche and Cooan are on their way here.

- It's in a safe place yes, when the others come I'll tell you. - The she-devil smiled and then sentenced with a slight dose of glee. - So that you never forget...

               Thanks to her restorative energy that provided that pleasant sensation, that silly human had given herself away. So a telephone survey, eh? That meant she'd finally spoken to the real Justiciera she was impersonating, and the others had been tipped off. So much the better. In that she had to admit that ILaya was right. It was often better to seduce and deceive than to use brute force. That had been her companions' mistake. This way she had accomplished what none of the others had been able to accomplish, and now she would finish off her mission.

-Yes, Kurah. - She thought with satisfaction. - You fell by the wayside. But I have succeeded.

            And that "friend" of hers was destroyed a couple of centuries ago on one of her missions. She was never good enough anyway to thrive. But she was different. Everything was going to be perfect for her, she could kill them all on the spot as soon as they arrived. She would be promoted and rewarded, she could even enjoy Karnoalk herself and leave that competitor in Hell. The thought excited her, and her hands began to roam almost involuntarily over the human's hard, perky breasts.

- What are you doing? – Petz was surprised, struggling to come out of the numbing sensation. -

- I've lost my mind, I'm sorry. - Her interlocutor whispered to her in a soft voice, trusting her with amusement. - "It's just that I think about what's going to happen and I get excited, you know?

- What? - Petz then regained the perspective of reality, coming out of that kind of suggestion. - What are you saying?

             But then the she-devil, leering at her, pressed her lips to hers.

- Don't you like it, sweetheart? You've never had it off with your little sister? - Niam finished mockingly and then she really tightened her hands around Petz's neck who was trying to escape from her grip without succeeding. - I'm sorry for you, but you have to die, I'll take your place and wait for your little sisters to join you one by one. - She hissed, regaining her demonic appearance with dark, curly hair and blood-red eyes. - Come on, die!

Her victim struggled desperately to evade this deadly prey. She had to react and stop it or it would be the end of them all. This monster would kill her first and then murder her sisters, who could not even suspect the danger they would face if this impostor took her form.

- Damn you! - she managed to say in a choked voice, struggling for breath. -I won't let you...I won't let you....

- Ha, ha! You're finished! - The succubus howled in exultation. - There's nothing you can do to stop it. You're already dead, my dear.

            But her intended victim was not going to give up so easily. Using all her strength, she managed to move enough to grab a heavy glass ashtray resting on a nearby table and smash it over her enemy's head. The latter, however, did not let go, even if she was stunned for a few moments. Her adversary took advantage of this and was able to move and hit her with a silver cross that was on a sideboard. The she-devil shrieked in pain and let go, her wound smoking.

- Damn it, not silver! - She was able to hiss in pain. -

           Petz used that precious time to transform by summoning her power.

- Pure Heart of Lightning, give me the power! Make up! -She tried to scream at the top of her lungs, though she barely got out a hoarse whimper. -

            However, it was enough to do the trick. Her enemy had recovered enough to reply, and was visibly furious.

- You're going to die! - the she-devil shrieked, hurling a bolt of lightning that the Justiciera dodged not without difficulty. - No more easiness. I will reduce you to dust...

The energy shattered part of the room, and Petz stood upright, meeting the succubus' gaze, which she challenged with determination and countered with another bolt of lightning.

- We'll see about that! - You'll be the one to go back to hell on the fast track.

                 Niam also evaded her and summoned a long black scimitar. The Lightning Lady materialised her own javelin and stood guard, brandishing it.

- Well, it should be an interesting fight. - The she-devil smiled, studying her opponent. -

       Petz did the same and the two attacked each other and began to wrestle, the fight was indeed close, but, little by little, Niam was gaining the upper hand because of her superior strength and agility. At last she snatched the javelin out of the Justiciera's hands with a commanding blow. The stunned girl fell to the ground and the she-devil took aim at her heart with her scimitar.

- I must say you have been a tough opponent, I congratulate you, but your life has come to an end. - The succubus declared with a respectful but merciless gleam in her eye, adding with satisfaction. - Fear not, your dear little sisters will soon be reunited with you.

She was about to deliver the final blow when the door burst open. The surprised she-devil stared for a moment, distracted from her enemy. Petz took the opportunity to roll away from her grasp and retrieved her javelin, which she hurled at point-blank range at the stunned Niam, skewering her in the belly.

- Nooo," - the succubus howled in pain and frustration. - "I was so close, so close...to making it.

- Too bad," - her rival declared ironically, finishing her off with a bolt of energy and then immediately retreating behind the now rickety couch. -

The she-devil exploded and just then the girls came in and discovered their older sister in the cover of the explosion, gasping for breath and with one knee on the ground.

- Are you all right, Petz? - Beruche asked her, running to meet her with visible fear. -

- Yes," - she replied, getting up slowly, leaning on her sister. She felt her body, fortunately without any symptoms of serious injuries, although she immediately remembered angrily. - "But they stole my stone! I'm sorry girls, I let myself be fooled like a fool. I've ruined everything, the advantage we had over them is gone... damn it," - she spat, hitting the already battered dining room table to vent her helplessness. -

- Don't worry, the main thing is that you're all right," - Cooan encouraged her. -

- You saved my life with your arrival. - Petz added a little calmer. - "Thank you very much," - and as soon as she had calmed down a little, she told them what had happened in the fight. -

- Now we must find out where they have the stones. - Karaberasu, who had also just arrived behind her younger sisters intervened. -

- And to tidy this up a bit. - Cooan sighed with a despondent glance around the hall. - How awful you've wrecked the dining room!

             Petz gave her an irritated look and her little sister apologised with a shrug. The state of the room didn't really matter, they had more serious things to worry about.

- It has to be the same place where they were last time. - Beruche surmised, not really paying much attention to Cooan's last comment. -

- The same lair you mean? - Karaberasu questioningly termed. -

Her sister nodded slowly, giving herself a few moments to think. The others followed suit. It was clear that they had to strike back at the enemy before he reworked his strategy with those stones. But they would have to be very careful....

-That's why we have to measure our steps carefully," - Petz commented. - If we can surprise them, hopefully we'll be able to strike a final blow....

And without any of them noticing Roy had followed them and was levitating near the window where he had been able to hear the conversation. He would go before them to that place. The problem was that he didn't know where it might be. Fortunately, Cooan remembered the address in her next intervention. And while the Justicieras agreed on a plan, he memorised the area and prepared to intervene.

-All right, I'll be there. - He thought as he left. -

            The next night before orchestrating a plan of attack, the two older sisters went out on patrol in the vicinity of what they believed to be the enemy's base. They wanted to reconnoitre the surroundings. Once they had done so, they were on their way back when they heard shouting.

- What is it, Petz? - her sister asked her. -

-It's coming from that alley. -Her interlocutor pointed out to her. -

         They quickly went down from the rooftop they were on to an adjoining street. A guy was running and screaming as if the devil himself was chasing him. Considering the area, they were in, he might as well be. When they both got down and cut him off to see what was going on, the bastard threw himself to the ground, pleading again and again at Petz's feet, who was looking at him in astonishment....

- No, please don't kill me, please don't kill me, please!" - He pleaded with obvious horror and agitation. -

-Calm down. - She asked him, trying to calm him down, and after looking around her, she added, turning again to the wretch who was trembling with fear. - You are safe. I am the Lady of Lightning. What has happened to you?

- That girl, that girl! ...- Her interlocutor was able to repeat without being able to say anything else. -

- What girl? – Petz wanted to know who was looking at her other companion without understanding. - There is nobody here.

- My stone is flickering. - One of them is close by. – Her sister told her. -

-Lady of Thunder, stay with this man. I will go and look. - Petz indicated to her sister. -

- Wait! - She asked her sister cautiously. - If it's a she-devil or a demon, you shouldn't go alone. We've had enough.

- My friends! - the guy who was almost in shock muttered. -

-Don't worry, we'll help them. - The Thunder Lady told him. -

               The two Justicieras looked at each other in astonishment. It would be best not to separate, and if, besides, two more victims needed their help, they would have to leave the matter at hand for later. The man sat at the entrance to the alley. They entered the one that crossed it. In fact, there they found two more guys. One of them was practically dead, his neck was broken. And the other one, well, his male part had been ripped off. After overcoming their shock and retching, they both called an ambulance.

- Who could have done this? - Petz muttered with obvious revulsion and horror. -

A sinister, woman-like cackle answered that question. Both Justicieras looked towards the source of the sound, but saw no one... However, their stones glowed brightly. They were unable to determine where their enemy was, though.

- Show your face, damn you! - Karaberasu demanded indignantly. -

-This is not the time for us to meet...yet. - A guttural, feminine voice mockingly replied in effect. - I have other work to do now...so I won't bother to give the remaining mangy human his comeuppance.

-You are very brave against defenceless humans, but you dare not stand up to us, eh? - the Thunder Lady challenged her, cracking her whip. - Come here if you dare!

Another laugh full of glee and disdain answered this challenge. Then her anonymous interlocutor sentenced.

- You fool! You are no match for me... And those humans were not innocent... they thought I was a poor, helpless girl and wanted to make a pass at me. Big mistake, trying that with a succubus. But look at it this way. You should thank me for standing up for women's dignity. Of course they won't be bothering any more humans... Ha, ha, ha, ha!

             After those words a muffled noise was heard, something had fallen from an indeterminate position. Looking at it from a distance it looked like a piece of meat. The Lady of Lightning approached it only to discover with revulsion what it was. The amputated limb of the wretch....

-A gift for you. In case you don't have much company. Ha, ha! - the she-devil mocked. - I'll be seeing you...

- Damn monster! - Petz could say. -

- Watch out! - Her sister warned her. -

As a parting shot, a bolt of energy from an adjacent alley crashed to the ground. Both Justicieras had just enough time to avoid it by throwing themselves to the ground.

- Are you alright? - Karaberasu wanted to know, approaching her sister once she had recovered. -

-Yes, don't worry. - She replied, rising quickly into a guard position. -

That caution was unnecessary, however. The stones had extinguished their glow.

-She is gone. - the Lady of Lightning mumbled. - I can't sense her...

-Much better, she seemed to be quite powerful. - Her companion sighed, adding cautiously. - And we should do the same. Before it comes back with worse intentions...

                Just then the ambulance arrived. The orderlies took care of the two bastards, the other one went with them to a police station. As soon as they left him safe there, they decided to leave. They had to stick to their plan. They would catch the demon, or rather, judging by the revelations of this poor guy and the voice of their enemy, the she-devil responsible for this....

- Why didn't she want to attack us? It's clear that the energy beam didn't hit us because she didn't want to. - Kalie was surprised. -

-I have no idea. She had a clear advantage, we didn't even know where she was hiding. - Her sister replied, so puzzled was she. -

-We were lucky. - Her interlocutor sighed. -

          Petz nodded as the two returned home, their civilian identities restored. Meanwhile, at the Sect headquarters, the red-haired, red-eyed she-devil appeared before the meditating Great Wiseman.

-I am here. It has been fun. - The succubus replied. -

- Why didn't you take the opportunity to finish them off? - He admonished her in a stern tone. -

-That was not my doing. - The questioned woman responded with a nonchalant impudence. - I have another task...

-Well, I don't see you taking care of him right now. - Her angry boss said. -

-A girl's got to have fun too. - She smiled mischievously and then added more seriously. - Didn't you summon four of mine to defeat them...?

-Unfortunately those humans defeated them. - The Wiseman had to admit, not without indignation. -

- Wow! - ILaya smiled. - Now that's interesting. Well... if you want me to take care of them, all you have to do is ask...

-That won't be necessary. I've summoned Karnoalk, he'll put an end to those stupid girls and the sun warrior. - His interlocutor replied with a more confident tone. -

- Karnoalk? You summoned a sixth circle demon here? - the she-devil was surprised, adding with obvious disenchantment. - In that case anything I do won't do me any good. He would appropriate it. He'll want to take all the credit. I'm not going to work for him.

Of course, at over two thousand years old, she was not naïve. Besides, it was good for her that those Justicieras, or whatever they were, were distracting that cretinously Wiseman and Karnoalk. It would give her a longer window to make progress on her mission. And ILaya hated to admit it, but she was a little lost in her task. It wasn't going as smoothly as she'd assumed.

-I need more time to see how I can succeed. - She mused. -

And she was also thinking about those eliminated she-devils. That Niam girl was always a sentimental idiot, the others overconfident or self-serving, and that Meriak girl, a disturbing fool.

-I didn't like the look on her face. - I thought. -

And it's just that, training her with the rest of them, once when they practised wrestling something happened. She, of course, defeated that fool blonde hollow head with ease.

- Stop staring at my tits and fight! - ILaya said in amusement after punishing her with repeated blows. -

               She enjoyed embarrassing that lesbian. Not so much because she liked her own sex, succubus was not averse to that, but because of her refusal to copulate with males. That was absurd. To give up such an instrument of control. To her surprise, though, she smiled faintly to affirm.

-I haven't seen your tits, but a glimpse of your destiny.

- What did you mean by that? - she snapped, grabbing her by the throat and pulling her down unceremoniously, ready to thrust her sword into her. -

-Something awaits you on Earth. - The blonde succubus gasped. - Something or someone that will change you. If you kill me, I won't be able to see anymore.

And that made her decide to let go. Meriak gave her a puzzled look, though. ILaya, however, shook her head with a disdainful smile and sentenced.

- You are mad! It would be better for you to learn from me, instead of talking nonsense, or next time I will be the one to prophesy your end.

Her interlocutor dared not utter a word. And she certainly never spoke to her about it again. Now she was indeed on Earth, after at least a century of absence since the last time.

-If you take care of the human you frequent and the mission you have been assigned, that will be more than enough. - The Wiseman snapped her out of her musings. -

-I will do so, my Lord. - She agreed and, after a slight bow, added in a somewhat sarcastic tone. - Now with your permission I will go on with my task....

And after a slight bow from her hood by the Wiseman, the succubus disappeared. He stood watching his ball as he remarked with glee.

-It seems this ILaya lives up to her reputation. Ambitious, selfish and calculating. Well, I think I'll save that she-devil for something more important. She has that other mission to accomplish, and she must not stray from it. I will summon others to confront these Justicieras and finish our unfinished business.

                And after that decision he summoned two new demons to finally place the stones in their proper places. Both introduced themselves as Wuir and Freas of the fourth infernal circle and humanoid appearance, albeit with bulbous, horned heads and olive-green bodies. After mutating into a less conspicuous appearance as humans they headed for the area accompanied by some cultists. Indeed, their destination was close to their previous lair. The Justicieras had stood guard at a nearby location for the next few nights, alarmed by the strange happenings. Petz and Karaberasu told their horrified sisters what had happened to the poor fellows.

-You were lucky that monster didn't attack you more viciously," - Bertie sighed. -

-Yes, we think so. - Kalie admitted, trying to sound more optimistic. - It could be one of those she-devils who hasn't shown herself yet, seeing what we've done to her companions.

-We'll be on guard in case she returns. But we must stick to our plan. - Petz said. -

- Let us hope that they in turn have not realised that we have discovered them. - Cooan wished. -

         They all agreed on that. They should be very cautious and patrol more discreetly. So they did, and eventually the girls discovered the enemy thanks to their stones. Now it was time to be extra cautious so as not to be detected, and so they waited until nightfall. When night came, they were ready to carry out their mission, but then the Justicieras appeared. Taking them by surprise.

- Stop there, you scoundrels! - The Lady of Fire commanded. - We will not let you perpetrate any eviller.

- No more of your acts of terror! - The Ice Lady added. -

- For peace and justice! - The Lady of Thunder exclaimed. -

- We Justicieras will stop you! - The Lady of Thunder finished off. -

The cultists, recovered from their initial astonishment, attacked them with sticks and knives. The girls easily disposed of them, knocking them out. They were careful not to kill them for as evil as they were, they were human. Meanwhile the demons took advantage of the confusion of the scuffle to place the stones in their place. When they did so, the stones vanished, protected by a magical spell, to the bewilderment and horror of the fighters. Although during the Justicieras' fight against the hitmen, none of them was aware that Roy had seen it all from the air and had transformed himself into the Golden Warrior ready to intervene on the girls' behalf. However, something prevented him from doing so by hitting him from behind and throwing him several metres away. He stopped in mid-air and heard a guttural voice.

- Not this time, sun warrior! - The voice that belonged to Karnoalk cried. - Now you will die at my hands! - He sentenced, beginning to emit a powerful aura of energy. -

- Who are you," - The boy asked with a shout, feeling in awe at the tremendous strength that far surpassed that of previous demons. -

- I am Karnoalk, Colonel of the Sixth Circle of Avernus. - He introduced himself and without pause struck his enemy again to throw him against a wall which he pulverised on impact as the terrible demon added. - Lord of the Citadel of Dite, Baron of the Darkness of Hazel and your executioner.

               Roy emerged as best he could from the rubble and counterattacked with an energy beam, his rival dodged it and the two began an exchange of blows in mid-air. Meanwhile, oblivious to what was happening to their friend, the Justicieras faced the other demons. Both were Horde captains and had superior power to them, so the girls had to attack them in pairs. Beruche and Cooan faced Wuir, while Petz and Karaberasu faced Freas. Roy in turn was fighting with all his might, but this enemy was faster and had the upper hand. With one blow Karnoalk threw him to the ground and as he looked down following his opponent's fall the demon spotted the Justicieras.

- Freaks," - Karnoalk ordered telepathically to the demon fighting them as he locked his lascivious gaze on Karaberasu. - Capture the Thunder Justiciera and take her to my lair, you can eliminate the others.

The demon nodded slightly at the instruction, knocked Petz senseless after launching a bolt of energy that exploded on the ground knocking the Lightning Lady to the ground and with great speed struck a blow that knocked Karaberasu out and carried her over his shoulder. Cooan and Beruche didn't even notice this as they were in trouble themselves. Roy realised this and launched a bolt of energy at Wuir, blasting him and rushing back to his own combat, getting away before either of them could see him. Karnoalk realised it too late, for in watching the girls he had lost his attention to his adversary. Furious, he attacked him again, and the latter was able to evade him by soaring into the sky. But the demon insisted on his offensive and the boy suffered another blow that knocked him off his feet. However, just as Karnoalk, smiling a wicked smile of triumph, was about to finish him off, he received a telepathic message from Freaks.

- My lord, I have the human you wanted, I am transporting with her to the base.

-Well done, I'll join you in a moment,"-  the demon chuckled in anticipation, but then objected more seriously. - But I have some business to finish first.

Nevertheless, Roy recovered enough during this time to launch a powerful energy barrage at the demon. Karnoalk, not expecting that, covered himself as best he could with an energy shield. This required him to use up a lot of his reserves. So, he opted to escape after that attack, while declaring.

- Sun warrior, it will be my pleasure to conclude this fight later, as soon as I finish something I have pending.

             And without giving his astonished opponent time to reply, he disappeared just as he was about to be hit by another bolt of lightning that pierced the void.

- Don't run away, you bloody coward! - Roy shouted angrily and frustrated, but there was no one to tell him. -

In the meantime, the girls gathered around. Beruche and Cooan ran to revive the battered Petz. Roy descended a hundred metres away, regaining his normal identity, and ran towards them.

- Girls, are you all right? - he shouted, calling their attention with a brace. -

They all followed like Justicieras and were surprised to see him. They had gotten their sister back on her feet and didn't know what to do. What the hell was Roy doing there? Besides, he was bruised and had some bruise marks on his face.

- What are you doing here? - Cooan asked him, trying to hide his nerves. -

- Don't bother with theatrics Connie, I know the truth. - He interrupted her. -

They all looked at each other dumbfounded and even the now recovered Lady of Lightning still tried to hide.

- I don't know what you're talking about.

- Don't be silly, Petz! - he insisted with less patience, revealing himself in turn. - I know who you are and I came as fast as I could to help you. So stop pretending with me.

- How could you find us? -Bertie then asked. -

             She was thus agreeing to reveal her identity, not wanting anything like that to happen to Roy for trying to protect them. Even if he already knew, that was precisely why she had to come clean, and she decided to take off her mask.

- Tom told me," - he admitted. -

- How could he? - Cooan replied in disgust, taking off her mask as well. - It was a secret, he promised me he'd keep it!

- And he tried, I assure you, Connie. I found out and he had no choice but to confirm it to me. He meant to keep the word he gave you. But he gave in when he realised that your life was more important, although it was hard to get him to talk and that's why it took me so long to get there. - Roy explained. - Please don't be angry with him. He's had a hard time keeping quiet.

-That's true. - The girl sighed - I asked too much of him. The poor guy must have had a hard time keeping it from you.

-You shouldn't be here anyway. - Beruche scolded him. - Now that you're just a normal man, you can't risk it. Leave it to us.

Roy looked down, giving the impression that he was about to answer something when Petz stepped forward, more focused after the fight, and said.

- Well, Bertie is right, but now that you know, we'll tell you everything. Bertie's right, but now that you know, we'll tell you everything.

- Yes, but we have to find Karaberasu. - Beruche warned, realising that her sister had so far failed to intervene or even show herself. - Where is she?

- I haven't seen her, she must have fallen behind the bushes," - Cooan surmised who asked the eldest of her sisters. - "She was fighting by your side, wasn´t she?

- Let's go and look for her! - Petz urged, admitting. - She was with me when that demon threw that bolt of lightning at me and I blacked out in the blast, yes, but I don't remember anything else until you revived me.

They all scrambled around for almost two hours, but found nothing.

- Maybe she's gone home. - Roy ventured, trying to reassure the others. -

- I don't think so, she wouldn't leave us alone," - Bertie countered, trying to control her growing panic. - Something must have happened to her!

- But where could she have gone? – The also frightened Cooan asked. -

- There's a possibility we haven't thought of until now, that she's been captured. - Roy conjectured with concern. -

- It can't be! - Petz exclaimed in alarm. - God forbid it's true! Those monsters have no mercy; they could do anything to her.

- Then we have no time to lose! - Cooan intervened, trying to overcome the fear that gripped them all. - We must find out where they're keeping her and fast!

- I'm going to find Tom; he might be able to locate her with the occult techniques he's learned. - Roy said. -

- We can track her with the stones. If we concentrate, we can surely locate the energy of hers. - Petz proposed. -

- Yes, that's a good idea," - Beruche nodded, also trying hard to keep her cool. – Yes, Roy, please go and look for Tom. If you find our sister location, let us know right away. We'll take care of her rescue.

He nodded, it was unwise to protest, or even try to dissuade them from doing so. Besides, unbeknownst to the girls, he would help as a golden warrior. So he ran off in search of his friend, wishing the distressed girls luck. As soon as he had located his companion (actually getting him out of bed, as it was already quite late), they both set about looking for some means of detecting the cult's lair.

-So, that's what happened? - Tom asked. -

-Yes, my friend, that demon was very strong, he was on a par with me, perhaps even superior. - His colleague admitted. -

-I'll have to investigate and see if I can find out who he is.

-A certain Karnoalk, he said he was a baron or a lord of something, I can't remember. - Roy tried to tell him by memory. However, he dismissed that to plead. - We'll deal with him later. Now we have to track down Kalie.

-It's going to be tricky, those bastards hide their tracks well. - The boy assessed. -

                The three sisters, meanwhile, concentrated with their stones on Karaberasu's energy and finally managed to pick up a small trail. They set off without delay in search of it. Tom, using all the knowledge he now had, also managed to trace the diabolical energy coming from the sect, and told Roy about it, who immediately set off on his way.

-What I didn't want to tell him was that the trail started here, at the college. -Tom thought as he turned the wheels of his chair to leave his room. -

And from far down the corridor, April saw him leave. The girl hesitated. Should she tell him? She was no stranger to the commotion among the cultists. One of the idiots recently enrolled by the cultists was a student at Golden and came to the same university with an ecstatic gesture. He said something to the effect that one of the Justicieras had been captured and was going to be taken care of by a real high-ranking demon. Unfortunately for April, that idiot knew her well and also knew that she was Paige's sister.

-If I talk, we'll be lost. - She thought in dismay. - I just hope Tom and the others don't get into trouble, I hope he doesn't mean Bertie or Connie!

                  For April was no longer in any doubt as to the identity of her companions. She and her sister Paige had been gathering information and it all added up. For her part, she feared that her companions would discover her, but with the recent events, those boys had forgotten her. At least for now. It was only a matter of time, however, before they tied up the loose ends. In the meantime, the Great Wiseman, who imagined they would come looking for her, ordered the sect moved, leaving only Karnoalk with a few faithful acolytes in the old lair, keeping Karaberasu there as bait.

**START**