GWA25E

**START**

**Meriak against Beruche.**

It had been a few days since the girls, at Rei's request, had met in a park in the Yuuban neighborhood. They strolled for a while at Minako's suggestion to get away from the crowd that filled it that pleasant and sunny afternoon. It was Makoto who, after walking for a few minutes, urged them to take a seat on some benches on the edge of the most crowded area. So, she wanted to know, addressing her brunette companion.

-Well, you tell me. You tell us. What has happened?

The priestess reminded them of the story she had already told them, including their mutual friend's refusal to help. Then the others could hardly look at her with their mouths open. With a mixture of disbelief, regret and even indignation.

-We talked about it, days ago. - Minako commented. - And we agree that something must be done.

-Yes, I don't like the way Usagi is handling things either. - Makoto agreed. -

           But it was Ami who took the floor next to defend the absent one.

-Listen to me girls. It's clear that appearances must be playing tricks on us. We know Usagi well enough. If she could do something, I have no doubt that she would do it. She is the one who suffers the most when she sees injustices or when innocent people are in danger.

-I don't agree with her either. - Minako agreed, although she wanted to qualify. - However, it is true that she acts in a very strange way. Those visions, dreams or whatever, she has. Those things she seems to know before they happen.

-It's the same with Mamoru. - Makoto added. - A lot of times it seems like he and Usagi are a million miles away from here.

-Yes," - Venus nodded. - Artemis also told me that he sees Luna behaving very strangely. Just like Usagi and Mamoru, she avoids any questions that have to do with these issues.

-They seem to have some sort of pact of silence. " - Rei concluded. -

-Girls, please. - Ami asked them, making a space with both hands. - Let's not blow things out of proportion. We shouldn´t jump to conclusions. They have their reasons. They have been informing us of things as soon as possible. To date, when we have had to come to the defense of our friends, we have done so. And despite the complicated and tough situation, everything ended happily.

-Not in this case, exactly. - Rei objected with visible contrariness. -

-You can't foresee everything. It was a terrible misfortune, but what could we have done? - her colleague asked her. - You told us yourself. Usagi confided in you that something was going to happen, but she didn't know exactly when and what.

Reluctantly Rei had to nod. They couldn't be watching their friends all the time either. It was Makoto who stepped in to declare, in defense for her absent companion.

-And then there's that mystery of Hokkaido. Those damned waves of objects, and those strangers our Outer companions had to deal with. It could be that Usagi and Mamoru, or, rather, Serenity and Endimion, are on to something else and that's why we can't afford to leave Japan unprotected.

- Are you suggesting that there might be an invasion underway? - Minako asked. -

-So far here we've been able to control the situation. Those demons are no longer appearing. At least for a season now. - Rei agreed, who immediately seemed to back out of the sentence. - Although they had been quiet there for quite some time until this happened. Perhaps it is not a far-fetched idea to suppose that something similar could happen.

-The question is, which of the two fronts is the important one? - Ami wondered aloud. -

Neither knew what to say to that. It could be that one of the two was simply a diversion to divide their forces. But which one?  Or what if the attackers were different enemies from each other? ...They had to admit that the question was a difficult one to answer. Makoto therefore smiled faintly to add.

-I have full confidence in Usagi and Mamoru. Perhaps it is for these reasons that they are forced to act like this.

- I hope you're right! - Rei sighed. -

-Above all, we must stick together. - Minako declared. - If there is dissension among us, our enemies will surely use it to their advantage. That's true. We must trust her.

-It would be a good idea for all of us to get together and try to get Usagi and Mamoru to tell us more. - Ami commented and immediately clarified. - As much as possible and without pressuring them. Let's offer them all our support, now more than ever, they might need it.

            Her companions nodded. After that they talked for a few more minutes and returned the way they had come, and then said goodbye, each one going back to their occupations. Meanwhile in North America, the boys' class was having sex education, Roy's favorite subject. But lately he was taking the practical classes with more tranquility because being in love with Bertie he didn't want to do anything that could bother her. Add to that the sadness over what had happened to his friend, and he had no desire to make jokes, except in very specific cases. Anyway, Miss Singleton, her teacher in this subject did not inspire much. She was thin, ugly, and at least sixty years old. She did, however, enter accompanied by a blonde, deep blue-eyed, not-too-tall beauty, whom she set about introducing to the class. Once she had silenced the murmurs of the male staff in the classroom.

- This is Miss Marlene Cain," the teacher announced. - She will be coming to class until the end of the term for exchange. I hope you will be courteous to her and help her to settle in," - there was an immediate chorus of "yes, yes! -

- It is nice to be here - the newcomer greeted shyly, bowing her head gracefully. -

The teacher pointed out a free place in the class and that girl took it, going precisely to sit next to Beruche and Roy, giving the latter a very inquisitive and interested look.

- I don't like that girl at all," - Bertie whispered to her classmate, realizing it. - Have you seen the way she looks at you?

- Are you jealous," - he smiled in amusement. -

- Me?" - she denied, twisting her face to reply in a dignified manner. - What nonsense! I'm just saying that she doesn't take her eyes off you.

- And what can I do if I'm so handsome. Ha, ha, ha! - Roy pouted, and in this case, he couldn't resist the temptation to answer that. -

            Which didn't exactly please Beruche who gave him a look of visible displeasure, crossing her arms and looking away.

- Stop acting like a child! - She admonished him. -

-Well, don't get angry, it was just a joke. - He excused himself, getting an indifferent gesture for a reply. -

However, it seemed that the young man was not very misguided. At the end of the class Marlene didn't miss the opportunity and greeted Roy. The truth is that the gaze of this young woman was very penetrating and captured his attention. It almost seemed to be bewitching....

-Pleased to meet you. - She smiled. - I'm Marlene Cain.

           Robert Malden, but my friends call me Roy. - He hastened to answer, smiling stupidly and almost stammering. - It's nice to meet you.

Bertie watched the scene with narrowed eyes. What was wrong with Roy? He looked like embarrassed teenager in the presence of this girl. But she had no choice but to overlook that and introduce herself in a dispassionate and somewhat dry tone.

-Malinde Beruche. It's a pleasure, I hope your stay here will be pleasant and profitable... in your studies.

-I hope so too. - The young woman smiled and looked inquisitiveness at her. -

           Her interlocutor felt a little strange when she met those blue eyes of fragile appearance but full of intensity, fortunately that sensation passed immediately. Meanwhile, the girl told them that she came from England and that she was preparing a postgraduate course. Bertie meanwhile noticed that the stone on her necklace was flickering but thought it must be due to some other cause, since there were no signs of demons around. Also, it did not light up completely as it usually did. She was puzzled. Why was that? That's what she was thinking as the newcomer asked her companion.

- So, you're a star here, are you?

- Well," - he replied modestly, scratching his head. - Something like that, but let's not overdo it, I'm just a little popular. And have you been here long? - he asked in turn to divert the subject. -

- Only a week ago, I have not yet adapted to the way of life around here. - She let it drop with a rather insinuating tone. - If someone would show me...

- To show you what? - Roy curiously asked her -

- The city, of course,"- Marlene smiled in a very honeyed way. - You know, long walks in the company of a local boy.

The boy couldn't hide his face of surprise and even satisfaction. That beauty had hit on him as soon as she arrived, a record! ...and those beautiful eyes, he just couldn't stop looking at her...

- Roy, we must go to the library. - Beruche, who was turning red with anger by the minute, intervened. - You know, to study, as we had agreed.

The boy looked at her now puzzled and tried to refute....

- What, but today n....- However, without letting him finish the sentence, she grabbed him by the arm and pulled him away almost dragging him away before his astonishment, without letting him add anything. - Cubito! But what the...?

- Sorry," - Beruche said to Marlene, giving her a rather cynical smile. - But we have a lot to do in private. Goodbye...

The newcomer stood watching the two of them walk away, smiling mischievously as she pondered.

-So that cutie is one of the Justicieras, she doesn't look like much, but she's pretty. And the boy, as far as I can tell, is all right. Could he be that Golden Warrior? I find it hard to believe, I was able to control him very easily. He looks more like an ordinary human. So, despite that those foolish demonesses can say later. I can seduce any male I want. Regardless of my preferences. And this one will fall under my influence. Anyway, I must inform my superiors and visit that other human first," - and picking up her books she left the classroom. -

And that girl was much more than she appeared to be. She was there, ready to succeed in her mission. She had gone ahead of her colleagues and would not allow any of them to rob her of success.

-That stupid Saila talks too much. - She thought with glee. -

She remembered how, together with her other colleagues, she had stood beside the Wiseman, indifferently witnessing how the masters were destroyed by those vigilantes called Justicieras.

-Those idiots have been easy prey. - Niam, a red-eyed, dark-haired individual, declared. -

-Or is it that these Justicieras are powerful indeed? - Iama, with her coppery brown hair and fire-colored eyes, said. -

-They don't look so strong to me. – Saila, that tall, red-haired girl who now showed blood-toned eyes, asserted. -

-We'll see. - Meriak herself, with her curly blonde hair and her incandescent eyes, remarked. -

-Speaking of visions. -Have you had any? - The Wiseman asked. -

-Not yet sir. - She answered, explaining. - I would have to be close to one of those girls. Or near the Golden Warrior to that. I should go investigate.

-You can go incognito to that place. - That hooded individual told her. -

-I have already been there, and I know that those girls hardly appear in that place. - Iama commented. -

- How do you know that" - Niam asked. -

-A human told me. The she-devil answered. -

-I know who you mean, I saw you together. - Saila smiled. -

-By the way, Meriak. - An amused Iama commented. - You and that human creature would hit it off very well. She seems to like her own kind of gender.

-That's interesting. Tell me who she is, and I'll pay her a courtesy visit. - She smiled. -

-I think you know who she is. – Do you remember the other day? - Her companion replied. -

-Unfortunately, that female won't be the golden warrior. You're going to have a hard time seducing a male like that. - Saila laughed. -

-I can control any of those stupid, primal humans. - She replied with visible discomfort. -

-I don't know if that's true. - Niam interjected, adding with amusement. - I understand you. We females are much more interesting than they are. But I have the advantage of enjoying both sexes. You on the other hand...

-I'll do anything to accomplish my mission. - The alluded one sentenced, getting irritated by the moment. -

However, she saw the game of those two. They were from a rival company. On the other hand, she and Iama were from the same company. That did not mean they were friends, far from it, such an expression was not often used among their own. Although they did have a bond of belonging to a certain faction. And, above all, Niam and Saila knew of her ability to have premonitions or visions when she was next to something or someone that would have an important role to play in the future.

-I do understand. - She smirked sarcastically. - You envy my gifts and you're trying to take my focus off me, don't waste your time, it will be useless. -

-If you say so, although I would love to see you take that mighty warrior to bed. ha, ha! - Niam replied. -

-He'd rather take any appetizing human girl to bed. - Saila laughed in turn. -

-I have no doubt that Meriak will do what she must do. I know her better than you do. - Iama pointed out, reminding her. - And you know who you should go see first, don't you? - She remarked, addressing herself precisely to her. -

The questioned woman remembered that individual who went to visit her acolyte. She smiled amused. She was about to return some of her other colleagues' compliments, but the Wiseman cut off the exchange of subtleties with an authoritative tone to order.

-This is no time for you to waste time with puerile discussions. You have a mission to accomplish. If you are so sure of your chances Meriak, go to that place and get information. Look for the missing stone in case our enemies hide it there.

-As you command, my Lord. - She nodded, bowing, and disappearing. -

She was satisfied. She got exactly what she wanted. To be sent there first. And to top it off that idiot Iama had told her a lot more than it seemed. So, reappearing in a room inside the lair they were in, she swapped her uniform composed of black bodysuit, tall red boots, and cape of the same color with shoulder pads with the emblem of a trident, and she adopted the image of that girl, an English exchange student.

-I had a vision that this young human girl would come with yet another boy. That's why I don't want to go on this mission alone. He can take care of that warrior and I'll get the sphere. - She thought. And then he invoked, raising his tone. - I beg you, Mr. Warcon, to appear.

And looking at the ground, she drew with a ray of energy from her eyes, an inverted pentacle. Soon, a dense layer of sulfurous gas was released from it covering the room. Among it appeared the tall, stocky figure of a man. At least that's what it looked like. As the mist dissipated, she saw a tall, brown-haired man with reddish eyes, wearing armor. He wore an inverted star on his shoulder pads.

- What do you want? - he asked. -

-My commander, I want us to share the glory. - She smiled, showing him some images, she conjured out of thin air. - We are to recover a Yalmutud sphere and defeat our enemies.

After briefly explaining the situation, Warcon agreed immediately. More when he saw the image of that golden warrior.

-It's very interesting... I like it... thank you for thinking of me.

-I feel very honored to have you by my side in this mission. - She replied submissively. -

- Do you have a plan? - Her superior asked. -

-Of course, commander. - The she-devil replied. -

And after updating Warcon, the two of them transported to that place, adopting the identities of the two students. Then they separated to investigate. Meriak had established contact with that boy. It was clear that it was him. The succubus was not strong enough to face that warrior, although her charms had worked.

-Although, those bitches are right about one thing. I prefer to focus my power of seduction on her irascible companion. - She said to herself with a playful chuckle. - But first, let's see that other one.

And she walked guided by an aura she sensed. Her companion Iama had given that girl a pentacle. She could feel the power emanating from it. She proceeded until she reached the door of a room. Once there, she knocked.

- Who is there? - A female voice was heard. -

-Hello. I was told to come to this room. - The she-devil replied, feigning an embarrassed tone. -

They opened the door. It was a girl with brown hair and blue eyes, about her height, who was looking at her perplexed.

- Who are you?

-My name is Marlene. - She answered. - I'm new here. A classmate told me to come see you. You're April, aren't you?

-Yes," - the young woman admitted, only to ask in surprise. – I am

Meriak immediately fixed her blue pupils on the girl's eyes, making her gesture look a little haggard. Her victim couldn't help but offer to let her in...

-Thank you. - The she-devil smiled, so, she changed her appearance, abandoning that of the English girl, to add with a growing tone of lasciviousness. - You and I have things to talk about. But first we're going to have a great time. Would you like to? - she whispered in that girl´s ear, giving her a soft nibble on her earlobe. -

April couldn't resist, her excitement growing out of control. Before she knew it, she was already hugging the woman, exchanging kisses and caresses. They undressed quickly and her lover made her lie down on the bed. There she treated her to a variety of pleasures that drew moans from her. One on top of the other they provided satisfaction. And although she clearly saw how the girl's eyes turned a bloody red color and two fangs protruded from her mouth, she didn't mind. On the contrary, it spurred her on even more.

-I want you. Please don't stop! - April gasped, filled with a lust she had never experienced before. -

Her lover smiled, totally dominating the situation.

-Come on, you must be very brave. - She whispered to her. - The future holds an interesting destiny for you...I know, I've seen it.

April could barely process those words. Her body was experiencing a strong orgasm that almost overrode her reason. All she wanted was for it to never end. Though then her lover commented, pulling away a little to get off her.

-No, I could kill you, and you must live. Or what I've seen won't come true....

- What do you mean? - April was finally able to ask, still feeling in a state close to reverie. -

        However, the sound of the door opening broke that kind of spell. Meriak immediately took the form of the girl she was impersonating as another young woman with long blonde hair entered the room, commenting casually.

-I'm sorry. I didn't know you were...

And she fell silent at the sight. Melanie's eyes were wide. The scene had shocked her, her roommate of years was naked and making love to another girl! She could never have imagined such a thing. She finally gave the impression that April was reacting when she barely managed to say.

-Mel, I, I, I... I can explain...

-No, that's not necessary. - She smiled forcibly to answer. - Everyone makes her or his own life... I don't interfere in your things. Just as you have never interfered in mine.

- Please," - her friend muttered, with a pleading gesture, as she and her lover covered themselves with sheets and got up.

-I'm sorry, I didn't know you and April. - Meriak interjected with a covert tone of glee that her interlocutors did not detect. - I hope I haven't broken any relationship...

-We are friends, nothing more. - Melanie responded, visibly upset, and then added, turning to her roommate. - Next time, please. Let me know so I don't intrude. And don't worry, your secret is safe with me. You have also covered for me many times and I won't let you down now.

And without further ado she left the room. Meanwhile Meriak watched her with evident interest and commented.

-Your friend is really very beautiful girl, haven't you slept with her, what a pity!

        However, that silly human now only buried her head in her hands and cried. The succubus realized that her sway had been broken. Although she had already enjoyed it. So, she just shrugged her shoulders and got dressed.

-Well, this was only for pleasure. Now let's get to the work part. - She stated indifferently to April's mood. - I need you to give me some information... Tell me, what do you know about these individuals? -Meriak asked, showing some pictures to the girl. -

For their part, the objects of thought of that she-devil had continued with their little polemic. Roy continued to be led down the corridor until he was fed up and Bertie couldn't move him an inch.

- What's the matter with you? - he asked in surprise. - You've never behaved so strangely before. What have you got against that girl?

- I don't like her! - His interlocutor told him dryly. - I have a hunch, she doesn't seem trustworthy.

- Oh, come on! - Roy laughed pleadingly. - She's just arrived, she doesn't know anyone and she's just trying to make friends. There's nothing strange about that.

- Well, she doesn't inspire any confidence in me, and if you want to do me a favor, don't go near her. And don't stare at her as if she were a dessert either. It's very rude!  - Bertie sentenced without much kindness. -

Her interlocutor watched her in astonishment. He had already realized that his companion could be very stubborn, so he let it go.

- Come on, let's go for a drink, I'll buy you a coffee and don't be like that, girl. - He proposed in a conciliatory tone. - Of course, Bertie was still rather surlier than Melanie herself when she got angry about girls' issues. - Thought the boy who affirmed with a lighthearted tone. - It will be something you can imagine...

And being cordial to her, he took her and put his arm around her shoulders while she gave him a long-winded spiel as they went down the corridor.

- Not that I care much, but there's something about her..." - she said, while Roy nodded mechanically without paying much attention. -

During that day Tom was in rehab. Cooan had insisted on accompanying him, although he didn't like it very much, but he had let it go. The girl tried to encourage him as he tried to cross two parallel bars using only his arms.

- Go ahead! - she exclaimed. - You can do it!

Still, he didn't like being treated this way. Even though Connie's intentions were good.

-I look like one of her practice kids. - He thought uneasily. -

Luckily, April arrived at that very moment. The young woman was still in a daze. She opened her eyes naked, on her bed and alone. She remembered now in a vague way having told some things to that girl she had slept with. And those strange words about her future that she did not understand and for which she did not get clarification.

-I don't know what I could have told her. I don't know what that meant. But I must talk to Tom and Connie. - She thought with a feeling of guilt driving her. –

       At least she was able to meet them at the gym. That poor boy was trying to exercise to overcome his tragedy. And his cheerleading partner was focused on encouraging him.

-Hi. How are you, Tom? - she greeted him. -

-Well, here, balancing. - He replied with little interest. -

The newcomer also looked at Connie and focused again on that pendant she was wearing. That red stone was very pretty, and that strange feeling returned.

-I'd swear it was the same stone that Justiciera wore. Could it be Connie? - She said to herself with that doubt in her mind. -

She'd left her own pendant in her room. And she forgot about it. In fact, it gave her a strange feeling when she had it near her. She had lost one before, so now she had tucked that other one in a drawer in her nightstand.

-That other girl whispered something to me when we were sleeping together. That she had been attracted to my pentacle. Is that what she meant?

          She was pondering what that pendant would really be when Connie snapped her out of her reverie.

- Did you want something?

-Just to have a little chat with you and Tom. - She smiled. -

-Well. -Her interlocutor replied impatiently. - What do you want to talk about?

- Anyway, some things are from the cheerleading squad. We could leave Tom alone for a moment and I'll tell you.

-I don't know. - A reluctant Cooan commented. -

Connie looked as if she didn't want to be separated from the boy. The atmosphere was getting a little tense until he intervened, even with an ironic tone, to declare.

-There is no problem for me, I have more than mastered this.

So, the two girls left him for a moment. Cooan then asked her companion now with curiosity.

-You tell me. What is it? It's been a long time since you joined the group.

-I know, Connie, and you'll see. - She sighed with a hurried expression. - I'm not feeling well.

-I do know. - Her interlocutor nodded, unveiling her. - To be honest, we're a little worried about you. You look sad.

-I've had family problems. - She told her, being at least honest about it. -

Although she didn't want to go into the nature of these problems or their implications. She tried, however, to discreetly warn her companion.

-I overheard two very strange women talking about you and your sister.

- Two strange women? Where? When? - Cooan asked. -

-It was at the entrance to the campus, a couple of days ago. - April replied. -

- What were they like? - Her interlocutor wanted to know. -

-One was blonde, and the other had longer, red hair. - Her friend told her. -

Cooan wanted to think of someone like that. Could it be that Usagi, and some other warrior had shown up there? Though she didn't consider it likely. At least in this case, it shouldn't be them. To ordinary people like April, her friends had the appearance of a Japanese woman. Their hair would range from shades of brown to auburn to black. So, she shrugged to admit with genuine surprise.

-I have no idea who they might be.

-Be very careful, they didn't seem very trustworthy. – Her companion added. - And I could have sworn I saw the blonde here. Inside the faculty. - She revealed without wanting to be more precise. -

It could be that then her companion asked her a lot of uncomfortable questions. And she didn't know how to answer. But Cooan only shrugged her shoulders, looking with bewilderment at her colleague to add.

-I don't know what they might have against us, I don't even think I know them.

April sighed then, not knowing what to do. On the one hand, she didn't dare to tell this girl anything for fear that she would scare her or that she would be taken for a madwoman. Although, on the other hand, she and her friends had been the first to talk about those strange events that affected them. So, she decided to take a chance.

-Listen, I think they're demons. - She whispered to her. -

- What? - her companion exclaimed, looking at her as if she were crazy. -

- Please! You must believe me, Connie. I saw them. - She told her with tinges that bordered on desperation. - And you..." -She wanted to add, now looking at her companion's necklace. -

Someone else was entering the training room, right near where they were. Cooan seemed to feel uncomfortable and spoke.

-I must get back to Tom.

          And April stood there, not knowing how to react. At last, she sighed with a shake of her head and walked away.

-I've done my best to warn them. - She mused to make herself feel better. -

        And yet she stopped halfway and forced herself to go back. She didn't want those two poor girls to suffer a horrible attack, they didn't deserve it. Taking advantage of the fact that Tom had paused and was on his way to the bathroom after politely refusing Cooan's offer to help him, April accosted her companion and pleaded in a pleading tone.

- You must believe me, please!... I think you could do something!

- Me? - her interlocutor exclaimed pretending to be perplexed. - What could I do against something like that?

April then dared to carefully hold Connie's necklace, directing a very revealing look at her. Her companion's countenance was demurred by surprise. However, she didn't reply by admitting anything, but only asked.

-It's all right. Tell me what you know....

Although they didn't have much time. April began.

-You see, I... I've really done more than just see that blonde girl. She...

              Meanwhile Roy and Bertie were alone in the faculty cafeteria having a milkshake. They had chatted about various topics leaving aside that incident of the morning. Beruche herself seemed calmer until she noticed the new girl approaching, but she saw her accompanied by a boy they didn't know.

- Hello, enjoy yourselves - Marlene approached them with a lot of sympathy. -

- Have you come to eat," - Beruche asked her coldly. -

- Yes, with my boyfriend," - she pointed to the tall, brown-haired, light-eyed boy she introduced. - This is Walter. He is also on exchange.

- How do you do," - the boy greeted, shaking Roy's hand. -

- Did you just get here," - he asked trying to be polite. -

- Yes, and I would like to visit the sports facilities. I'm a basketball fan, and I've heard that you're the best basketball player here. If it's not too much trouble, I'd like to see where you play.

- Of course," - Roy nodded, quite flattered by his sporting fame in addition to the other conquistador fame he already had outside the walls... - As soon as we finish eating, I'll go with you to see them.

- Great! - the boy replied visibly pleased. -

- In the meantime, we could talk. If that's okay with you. - Marlene proposed, addressing Beruche in a very friendly way. -

- I don't know if I'll have time. - Bertie objected apologetically - I must go back to my room to study.

- We can talk on the way back; my room is nearby. - Marlene insisted. - But I can walk you to yours.

And Beruche had to give in. Why would that girl want to talk to her? Perhaps she had rushed to judgment, and she was interested in clearing things up. In any case, lunch came first, and she sat down next to her companion. They both ate while being watched from a short distance by that strange couple who did the same.

- You see, little cube? - Roy whispered to her as they ate lunch. - I told you, she just wanted to make friends. She has her boyfriend here.

The questioned woman sighed. This time it seemed that her partner was right. She was not going to be too stubborn or too sullen and nodded. In fact, now she felt somewhat violent and angry. Perhaps she had let her jealousy get the better of her. She had to admit her mistake, even if it meant having to put up with Roy's teasing for a while.

-Well, in this case it serves me right. It is what I deserve. - She told herself admonishingly. -

           Although there was something she didn't like about that girl, but she couldn't quite figure out what it was. That strange look, for example. She seemed to want to eat her with her eyes.  Anyway, she let it go and, when the meal was over, Walter approached them, ready to remember the promise Roy had made to him.

- We're going to see the court," - the host said, getting up willingly. - See you later, Bertie.

As soon as the boys walked away, Marlene came up to Beruche, explaining in a conciliatory tone.

- Look, I know you and I didn't get off to a very good start. If it's about your boyfriend, don't worry, I'm already in company. He doesn't interest me in that respect. I hope you've noticed that Walter and I are going together. I really didn't mean for you to misunderstand me. I just want friends to help me adjust and a good friend like you wouldn't hurt.

Beruche thought and stood up.

- Maybe I owe you an apology. - She recognized the questioned one smiling at last to propose her more relaxed. - Come with me and we'll talk.

Bertie went to her room followed by Marlene who smiled mischievously. The Justiciera did not realize that, on this occasion, her stone was glowing brighter and brighter. At the same time, April had been chatting with Cooan, she started by telling her that she had had relations with that blonde.

-I'm... well. I'm gay. - The young woman confessed lowering her gaze. -

-Well, everyone loves who they want to love. - Cooan was able to answer, more than anything in a hurry because of the bad time her friend was having, so she immediately added with kind tones. - That doesn't make you a monster.

She certainly wasn't going to get into April's sexual preferences. And she even appreciated the fact that her partner had wanted to come out of the closet by telling her.

-It's not just that. - April sighed, confessing with a heavy sigh. - Melanie surprised us. And even though she told me the same thing you did; I know she didn't take it well. Now I'm scared.

-I'm sure Mel understands. And that she'll remain your friend just as she was before. - Cooan encouraged her. -

-I wish she would. But that's not all I wanted to tell you. - Her interlocutor admitted, returning to the initial topic. - When I saw those two, they looked dangerous. Especially one of them. Her face was horrible.

- Was she ugly? - Her interlocutor asked, not understanding what that was all about. -

-No, that's not the point. She was very pretty, but in an instant, she had a monstrous face, with red eyes and fangs. Well, I was in a cleaning room, and I saw her through the keyhole. - She had to admit. - So, I don't know if you are in danger. If one was here, maybe the other is with her. Maybe it's that new girl I slept with who's possessed. And the one with the monstrous face is forcing her to help her.

         Cooan watched her skeptically, though she promised to let her sister know.

-As soon as Tom finishes his exercises, we'll go see if we can find her. Thank you, April. For warning us and for trusting me.

-I know you're an amazing girl. - Her friend mused. - If you want to go look for her now, I can stay with Tom for a while. - The second captain of the cheerleaders offered. -

-I wouldn't want to leave him. - Her interlocutor objected. - Besides, it won't be long before it's over.

-As you wish. - The girl resigned herself. -

          In the meantime, Bertie was walking with Marlene. As fate would have it, they crossed paths with Hank, who was on his way to the chess club.

-Hello. - The boy greeted her. -

- How do you do? - Bertie answered, introducing him. - Hank, this is Marlene, she's here on exchange.

-Nice to meet you. - He said. -

The girl gave him a cold and somewhat baleful look, although the young man was used to being ignored or even openly mocked by most of the girls. However, that kind of expression was much more disturbing. Or perhaps it was his imagination since that individual gave a faint smile and replied.

-Likewise.

- Are you going to the chess club today? - he asked, turning to his companion. -

-I don't know. I have some things to do. - Bertie answered hesitantly. -

-In any case, I'll be there. - Hank replied, able to articulate a faint smile. -

And he continued his way, when he had walked away, Marlene smiled mockingly, muttering in Bertie's ear.

-That poor fool likes you, and for that at least I can't reproach him.

-He's a good boy. - Her interlocutor replied, feeling even a little bad for him. –

-He must be a pain in the ass. He should realize that you already have a boyfriend, right? - Marlene commented. -

-He's interested in me because we're in the same chess club. - Bertie explained. -

-So, you play chess too. You're smart as well as pretty. - Her companion praised her. -

That almost made her blush, although she wanted to believe it was a compliment as a courtesy.

-Come on, let's go, my room is not far away. - Bertie proposed to the newcomer. -

          They went on and finally arrived at the room of the hostess who invited the girl in. The latter did not make her repeat it, she closed the door, and the newcomer took a hand of her companion in a very insinuating way.

- Forgive me for misunderstanding you before," - Bertie said somewhat self-consciously. - But it's just Roy and me.

- Sure, sure, don't worry honey, I understand. - Marlene who was carelessly stroking Bertie´s right arm, smiled. -

- What are you doing? - The surprised girl asked as she gently pulled away from her. -

Her interlocutor sighed, put her hands behind her back and turned around to face Beruche again.

- Actually," - Marlene whispered, approaching her slowly. - I was just trying to get your attention. This has never happened to me before and I'm a little confused.

- Happened to you what, are you sick? - her interlocutor asked her uneasily. -

- No, it's not that. -Marlene smiled, leaning even closer to her, so that Bertie began to feel violent as her guest added in a breathy whisper. - I'm going to confess something; I don't like men. I say Walter is my boyfriend for appearances sake if you know what I mean.

          She winked at the astonished girl who could hardly believe her ears, although it wasn't that uncommon anyway. What really stuck her was to hear how the girl said to her, gently stroking her chin as she did so.

- Don't you realize how pretty you are? I like you... I like you a lot and not only that, but I also perceive something very strange in you... something that attracts me very much.

And before her shocked classmate could react Marlene tried to kiss her, but she pulled her mouth away from her stalker's lips by millimeters.

- Hey, I'm sorry," - Beruche stammered, flushed with embarrassment. - But I'm not that kind of girl....

Her companion was caressing herself with obscene gestures, approaching her interlocutor while insisting...

- I've liked you from the first moment I've seen you. Come on, don't be silly! We can have a great time together and no one would know. You can go on with your boy. You could even propose that he joins us to watch. He'd love it!

- But what do you say? - Bertie exclaimed, visibly shocked, trying to get a hold of herself. - Listen, I'm sorry, I don't know what you've imagined, but I assure you I'm not a homosexual. And I'm repulsed by the idea of sleeping with another woman. I don't want to offend you, but I think this has gone too far.

In fact, she just didn't understand why so many people, including her own sisters, had come to think that of her. She had nothing against people with those preferences, although she found it really embarrassing. But her interlocutor gave her a look that was somewhere between amused and condescending in rebuttal.

- If you've never tried it, how do you know you won't like it? You'll see, I can feel it. I assure you that one day you will have to love someone like me. - She declared with conviction. -

           Then she grabbed her prey by the arm and approached her, trying to caress her breasts and kiss her, but she slipped away, hitting her in the stomach.

- I'm sorry! - Bertie stammered apologetically at that instinctive reaction. - I didn't mean to hit you, but you understand it can't be.

Marlene fell backward, doubled over, but instead of complaining, she laughed. Her light blue dress became a tight black suit that resembled a swimsuit, with a long cape and tall red boots. On each of her shoulders she sported a trident. As she stood upright again, her face had changed, no longer that of that girl named Marlene. Moreover, her blue eyes had turned red, and two fangs protruded from her mouth. She hissed at the frightened girl who was looking at her in disbelief.

- It's a pity, you would have been able to experience the joy that a succubus can give before dying, it's unimaginable. You would have literally died of pleasure with me.

- You are a demon! - Beruche shrieked, putting herself on guard. -

- How observant you are! -  the she-devil laughed ironically, introducing herself in her identity. - I am the succubus Meriak and I am going to finish you. - And my fake boyfriend Walter, who is my commander, will kill your friend.

- That's what you thought! - her antagonist shouted, invoking her other identity - Pure heart of ice, give me the power! Make up! - Bertie shouted transforming herself to the bewilderment of her opponent, who was not expecting such a light show. - You're going to pay for it...

Meriak recovered from the surprise, muttering in amusement.

-So, you're one of those Justicieras. My informant was right.

- Informant? - her rival repeated. - Who told you that? No one here knows our identities but us.

-It's a pity, you'll die without knowing. - Meriak scoffed. -

-We'll see about that. - The Ice Lady attacked. -

               They exchanged a succession of blows, Bertie threw all kinds of kicks and punches, but the she-devil was stronger. Meriak was able to block her in the confined space they were in and grabbed her enemy by the neck. She was going to strangle her, but first she asked her.

- Where is the stone?

Her adversary denied between gasps and spat with defiance.

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

Her enemy stabbed her long, sharp nails into her arm, and she couldn't help a groan of pain as she saw her own blood gushing out.

- Don't play with me, human. Where is the Yalmutud sphere?  - the she-devil insisted in a much worse way. -

- I will never tell you! You'd kill me if you knew. - Bertie challenged her, trying to gain a few precious moments to think of a counterattack... - Don't think I'm that stupid.

- My dear. - Meriak smiled falsely at her, showing her fearsome fangs between her lips. - You are going to die anyway, but I assure you that I can make it sweet or terrible. That's up to you.

- And if I tell you where it is, what will you do to me? - Beruche asked her with prevention. -

- For example, this. - The she-devil replied, taking her rival's face, and joining her lips to hers in a prolonged kiss. -

The she-devil was enjoying it. She remembered how after being appointed by the great Wiseman and summoning her commander, the two of them planned this. The succubus was already in the university with her human appearance and then the Wiseman called her again.

-Succubus Meriak. Come. - He ordered her. -

She appeared, in her battle uniform. She was ready to fulfill her mission.

-At your orders. - She replied somewhat surprised. - Have I forgotten something?

Perhaps one of her companions would have reacted by convincing the hooded man to relieve her. Fortunately, this did not seem to be the case when her interlocutor commented.

-As you know, you must take care of one of the Justicieras and find out if she has the Yalmutud stone in her possession. I see you have adopted the identity of a human to go unnoticed. That's clever. Still, beware, you could be detected.

-Yes Sir, I was already there, I will return immediately. I must inquire to confirm their identities. - She replied, ready to transport. -

-Wait a moment. I have another assignment for you. - Her boss indicated to her. -

- Which one? - She asked without understanding. -

-Before you take care of this matter, you must do me a small favor. - He asked her. - Go to another address. Do not intervene in what happens there. Just concentrate on the future and tell me what you see?

He gave her the coordinates. The she-devil was surprised, but soon understood. The aura of evil was powerful there. It was in an old building on the outskirts of the city. In a slum. Many humans were lying on the ground.

-Wow, drug users. A waste of time. There's nothing I could have done to them that wouldn't be worse than what they already suffer. - She thought. -

She did indeed sense something, one of her premonitions. She saw a scene of violence. She heard screams; it was a woman arguing with a man. She kept looking at that image, now she could see the half-open door of a dilapidated apartment.

- You're a common whore! Give me my money. - A man demanded to a woman with straight brown hair. -

-I don't have any. - She replied with obvious signs of being emaciated. -

-You've taken it all, you're a junkie whore! - He insulted her. -

That dispute between mortals was not very interesting for her, she could move around as if she were a specter, without being able to interfere in anything that was happening.

-It is the near future, perhaps five or six years from now. - She estimated. -

As she passed into that ramshackle den, she saw a small, dark-haired, blue-eyed girl huddled behind a door. The adult human went to her. But that guy stepped forward, grabbing the girl by the neck, and holding a sharp knife to her throat.

- Mommy! - the child shrieked, visibly frightened. –

-Don't be afraid, Marla, honey. - The woman asked in a trembling voice. -

- The dough, bitch! Or I'll kill this brat. - That guy threatened. -

Hearing that, Meriak smiled. Not that she cared much, that was typical of humans of that ilk.

-I like this kind of situation. They are fun. - She thought with glee. -

         That individual, whom she recognized as one of her acolytes, tried to free her daughter and that man hit her, knocking her down. Apparently, with the force of the punch he gave her, he knocked her unconscious.

-Now, baby girl, you and I are going to have fun. - He whispered in a panting voice to the terrified pup. - I'll show you what they do to your mommy.

-You better have fun with me. - Then a female voice intervened. - If you're capable of...

Without the guy even being able to react to those words, a woman jumped on him. With great speed and pulling out a dagger, she stabbed him in the neck. All before the little girl's glazed look. When the lifeless body of that idiot fell as if it were a bundle, that brown-haired woman bent down to look at the little girl and, between gasps of exhaustion and nervousness, she commented, trying to sound affectionate.

- Did you see that? You must never let yourself be overpowered by any man. You must be strong and protect your mother, always. Don't ever forget that Marla, I was told that once. You only have yourself. - She smiled tremulously despite everything. -

Meriak was shocked. That girl was!...

- Well, well! - She smiled to herself. - This is very strange. I don't understand anything at all. But then...this vision can't be accurate. Somehow, I must have gotten into her head.

      And in the meantime, she could see that the individual jumped out of one of the windows that were open, leaving the brat there next to the corpse of the guy, although her mother was not there. She did not understand why the Wiseman had ordered her to go and see that... Since when did he care about human life? What use could that girl or her junkie mother be to him? Then, as she investigated the face of that weeping infant, another vision assailed her mind. She saw her as an adult and...

- Wow, so that's it... unbelievable! - She was able to mumble genuinely impressed, still dazed by those powerful premonitions that almost prevented her from uttering a word. - I understand... I understand... her mother is a... and that child will be...

-You don't have to understand anything. Just carry out my orders. - She was telepathically interrupted by the Wiseman, who then instructed her. - Now, devote yourself to carrying out your original task. And not a word about this, or it will be the end of you.

-Whatever you command, sir. - She answered submissively when she finally cleared her mind of it. -

               And everything had gone swimmingly. Now, returning to the present, she was enjoying kissing that human. She felt very excited, thinking about the success of her mission. For her part, Bertie felt very strange, it was as if a great uneasiness was running through her body. What neither she nor her attacker expected, though, was....

- What? - Meriak exclaimed, suddenly turning away from the perplexed Justiciera. -

The she-devil's mind was a kaleidoscope of images. She could see another woman, with long brown hair styled in a braid just like her enemy's. She wore a demonic uniform very similar to her own and wielded a trident. Her red eyes glowed and her mouth twisted into a sadistic grimace. Then, she saw that same woman, but with green eyes and a furious expression, grabbing precisely that brown girl, the girl from her other vision, being now an adult, they seemed to be in a kind of cell...then that woman escaped helped by a tremendously powerful and terrible energy...and then the vision of that hooded being, holding open a large maroon book, on which he seemed to be writing something...

- No, I don't understand what this means! - Meriak was able to say with astonishment presiding over her features. - The future! The remote future? How is it possible? That girl is...? Who is that Wiseman? What's going on?

          Unfortunately for her, her enemy recovered sooner from the surprise than Meriak herself. The Ice Lady then materialized her sword and thrust it into her back. The succubus shrieked in pain and let her go, stumbling backwards, mortally wounded.

- Damn bitch! - she hissed between gasps, trying to recover while clearing her mind in her final moments. - Remember what a she-devil with the gift of prophecy tells you and remember it well. Someday you will have to love someone like me! It will be something you cannot avoid. It will be very painful for you. She will look like me. You may have to kill her. And it will break your heart...

Her adversary looked at her incredulously only to answer with conviction.

- I don't think so, I already told you that women are not my type.

-It's a very strong feeling...you...her...a bond...of blood...her, the other...girl...her destiny, is....

At the stupor of the Justiciera, Meriak was about to say something else, but she could not. She fell limp to the ground and exploded. Beruche, who had expected something like this from previous experiences, covered herself as best she could from the explosion and regained her normal identity.

- What did she mean by that? - She wondered as he struggled to her feet. - Who does she mean...loving someone like her...I don't understand. I'm not a lesbian. Of that, I am sure. That she-devil must be crazy.

      And while she was thinking about it, she bandaged her wounds. Finally, she put aside those strange and cryptic words of her enemy and focused on the most urgent thing.

- Roy may be in danger! -she exclaimed. -

So, she ran off in search of him to make sure that there was no other demon attacking his companion. The latter in the meantime had shown the facilities to Walter who, however, now did not seem to be too interested in them. In fact, this guy was looking at him strangely and he began to get uneasy. They reached a secluded area of the campus and Roy heard the boy's voice behind him, but it was deeper and more guttural.

- Die Sun warrior! - he shouted, launching a bolt of energy that hit Roy and slammed him into a fence that shattered from the blow, burying him under it. - Ha, ha, ha, ha! - The boy who transformed into a black armor with a star on it laughed - Ha, ha, ha, ha! I am Warcon, commander of the fifth circle and now that I have killed the Sun warrior, I am sure I will get a promotion. It's a pity, though. He was very attractive. I would have liked to possess him just as Meriak will do with that human.

But his joy was short-lived, to his horror Roy came out of the rubble putting on his tattered sweater and swearing.

- What I'm going to give you is a beating to death, you filthy demon! Look what you've done to my sweater, do you know how much it cost? It was chain stitch. - The boy replied, transforming himself into a golden warrior. –

- It can't be! - his rival exclaimed, looking at him in astonishment. - Take that! - He howled emitting another energy attack that his opponent deflected smoothly into the sky. -

Warcon flew to escape, but before he could advance more than a few meters Roy intercepted him with his great speed.

- You'll see now, I'm going to cut you into so many pieces that you won't be able to be put back together even with a magnifying glass, you cretin! What did you mean by possessing me like a human? - he asked with an angry face. -

- That my partner, who is a succubus, will be delighted to enjoy with her. -He replied, visibly amused, adding. - And you and I could have had a great time, what a pity!

And as he finished the sentence, he launched another powerful ray that hit Roy making him fall. But the latter got up immediately and levitated, shouting furiously.

- I'm going to beat you to a pulp, you damned fa...!

And without giving him a chance to reply, he punched his enemy and sent him crashing to the ground. Warcon rose again, drawing a long sword.

- I will kill you! - the demon howled out of his mind. -

However, despite his numerous swift thrusts at high speed against the plot of land, the latter dodged him with such speed that the demon could not hit him.

- All bets are off. Or rather. Now I'm the only one who's going to hit..." declared Roy declared and snatched his sword with a lightning bolt. Warcon stepped back exhausted and frightened, his enemy with a malicious smile asked him - Haven't you seen "The Highlanders"? - His astonished rival shook his head - of course - the Golden Warrior said with a mocking tone - you must not have television in hell. Well, don't you know what my favorite part is?

- No," - the bewildered demon with a stutter answered, so he wanted to know. - What is it?

- When they say that... "there can only be one"! - He exclaimed, decapitating Warcon with the sword and throwing it at his body where it stuck, causing it to explode. - This is cool! – Roy smiled. -

           And after some bushes hidden from possible looks, he returned to his normal state and headed towards the university worried about Beruche. As the boy was reaching his room, he ran into her who was running to meet him and looked scared about something.

- Have you been with that boy? - she asked worriedly between gasps of tiredness. -

- Yes, and it wasn't what I intended. - Roy confessed, adding without further explanation. - Fortunately, I was able to get rid of him. Have you had problems with that girl? - He wanted to know with a hint of uneasiness. Especially, when he saw the torn pieces of her clothes. -

- The same as you, but she won't come back either. - She answered him without wanting to go into details, noticing, among other things, the mess of her partner's sweater. -

- It seems we've got the hang of those wretches. - He breathed a sigh of relief. -

- Yes, thank goodness because what a pain in the ass, she almost raped me!  - Beruche sighed. -

- You were saying? - Roy asked, not believing he had understood her correctly. -

- Nothing, nothing, don't pay any attention, it's my stuff, ji, ji, ji, ji, ji! - Bertie hurried to answer with a stupid smile. -

- Oh, that Marlene! No wonder you didn't get on too well with her. You've got a sixth sense, I must say.

- She wanted to go a little overboard, but I set her straight. - His companion responded with a bit of a twinkle in her eye. -

The boy smiled, putting an arm around her shoulders. Both referred to the identity of these newcomers.

- How did you get rid of her? - Roy wanted to know. -

-Well, I kept some holy water around. - His companion, who also wanted to know, was able to improvise. - And you? What did you do to get rid of the other one?

-This... you don't see how handy wooden stakes are. When you're lucky enough to find one handy. - he said. -

          None of them wanted to continue with that subject. In fact, they had finished off some demons before by resorting to those tricks and they didn't feel like going into details. The two of them walked away to their classroom. Later, the real Marlene and Walter arrived, two exchange students who had been usurped by the demons. Although identical in appearance, they were quite serious and had nothing to do with the ease of speech of the others. After seeing them, Roy and Bertie were walking down the hallway, and both commented.

- Well, I don't know who I preferred - Roy smiled jocularly affirming. - The other girl, even if she was a she-devil, seemed more ready to go.

But that comment, made on purpose to make his companion a little angry, did not have the desired effect. What's more, she laughed mockingly to sentence.

- You would have been disappointed!

- Why? - Roy asked her without understanding (or at least that's what he implied).

- My thing - she smiled. -

- Well, the new one isn't bad either. - Her partner added, looking at the newcomer scrutinizingly. -

- What are you looking at? – Bertie asked him, now frowning. -

- Hey, why are you looking at me like that? - Roy wanted to know with a silly grin. -

Bertie approached him brandishing one of the singing books in a mock (or maybe not so mock) threatening gesture.

- I'll give you peek-a-boo! - she exclaimed, chasing him through the corridors. -

After playing "chasing you" and having some fun, they rested for a while, sitting on a bench on campus. It was she who started another conversation by asking seriously.

- Have you heard from Tom and my sister?

-Nothing so far. I hope they haven't had any mishaps. - The boy wished with a more uneasy gesture. -

Bertie looked at him with a realization, he looked back at her, and his companion confessed...

- You know, I'm worried about them. Both.

-Yes, I know what you mean. - He admitted. -

-I know my sister loves him, Roy. -I know she does. I know it's been hard for her, but I don't know how much she doesn't feel obligated to be with him. - The girl sighed. -

-It's something like that with Tommy. He's always been in love with Connie. I could have sworn that from the first moment he saw her. But things are different for him now. He doesn't want to be a burden. He needs time to meditate.

-He's not. He would never be a burden, but perhaps my sister is trying to overcompensate too much. - Beruche was able to reply with concern when she heard that. - To show him that she still loves him.

-You and I know that, but he's very stubborn. And maybe he thinks like you. That your sister is with him out of commitment. You know he's a great guy, but he's got that redneck pride. And now I don't mean that as a joke, nor in a pejorative way. - Roy said, speaking seriously, of course. - He has a traditional upbringing. It's not that he's a macho man, but he believes that the man's duty is to protect his girl and not the other way around.

-Of course, you men still have a long way to go in that respect. - His interlocutor replied, affirming, " We don't need a man to protect us. We know how to do it on our own. That's what happens to us as to the Sailors. We even want to protect the man we love. - She smiled now as she shook hands with the boy.

             Her interlocutor held her and smiled back. Bertie had certainly given him ample proof of that by risking her own life for him. After a few moments of silence, the young man commented in softer tones.

-I don't mean exactly that. - He wanted to clarify. - What Tommy can't stand is being so dependent now. You understand. It's been a very hard blow for someone like him. As it would be for anyone.

-Yes, I can understand that. - Bertie sighed in a sorrowful tone. - It's very unfair and a big change for him to take in slowly.

-That's why perhaps it would be wise for Connie to give him some space for now. - The boy said. -

-I've talked to Petz and Kalie about this. And they agree with you. - His interlocutor confessed, adding with concern. - The question is, how do I tell her without hurting her?

-I'm afraid you won't be able to avoid it. - His partner sighed affirming. - I've tried to talk to Tom about it, but he gets defensive every time I speak about the subject. I don't know...I think it's a matter for them alone to resolve...even if it hurts them. Don't you think so too?

The girl nodded slowly. So, after a while more conversation, they each went back to their rooms. Beruche, on returning to her room, found her sister there. She had returned and was getting ready and was looking at the chaos in the room with astonishment.

- Hello Bertie - Cooan greeted her and immediately asked with concern - hey, can you tell me what happened here, everything is upside down. Are you all, right?

- Yes, don't worry, I'm perfectly fine. I'll tell you later – her sister said without giving him more importance, asking in turn - Where are you going that you look so beautiful?

Cooan was going to comment on what April told her but seeing that her sister did not give the impression of being hurt or worried, she judged that this threat was no longer important and answered her question.

- I'm going to tell Tom if he wants to come to the movies, he hasn't been out since he was hurt, he needs to have some fun.

             Bertie looked at the wall. She had to be honest and speak her opinion. She prepared for it by approaching her sister.

- Cooan, there's something I must tell you. - Bertie declared with a serious expression. -

- Yes. What is it? - She wanted to know carelessly as she looked at herself in the mirror. - Tell me soon, I'm in a hurry.

- I think you're being...- her companion tried to find the right words to avoid hurting her sister, but, as Roy warned her, she had no choice but to be clear. - I don't know how to tell you this without upsetting you, but. You should leave Tom alone for a while," - she added at last. - I don't think he'll like your constant pestering of him.

- That's where you're wrong," - Cooan replied without seeming to be bothered. - He loves me, and I love him, there is nothing wrong with that, besides, I owe him.

- No Cooan – Her interlocutor rebutted shaking her head. - Can't you see that all you do is pity him, he doesn't like that.

- That's a lie! - she responded, looking at her sister, now visibly angry. –

- That may be, but that's what you make him see. - Bertie explained, trying to maintain a conciliatory tone - don't do it out of false obligation.

- How dare you say that? - The alluded one shrieked quite angry now. - I was dating him before anything happened to him, he put his life on the line trying to protect me! It's my fault that he's like this, don't you understand?

- Calm down - A more than worried Beruche asked to her sister, gesturing with her hands. - You know that deep down I'm right, this way you'll only make him suffer and you'll suffer too.

- Shut up! - the questioned one burst out of herself - what do you know about loyalty, first you couldn't even see Roy and now you're going out with him. You took him away from me and yet I didn't come between you. Why do you want to come between Tom and me now? What have I done to you to make you treat me like this...?

- B-but Cooan," - Bertie stammered, not knowing what to do, frightened by her sister's aggressiveness and hurt by that remark which she knew was the fruit of a hitherto unreleased resentment towards her. - Don't you see that you're only driven by remorse and guilt, that's not true love.

- You have no idea what true love is, if it weren't for me, you would be frozen! - the questioned woman reproached her. - In case you have forgotten, I saved your life when you wanted to commit suicide and take us all with you. When you said that love was a useless feeling, and now you thank me like this? You dare to give me lessons on what it is to love and what it is not? You are nothing but a hypocrite! Let me go! - She shouted at her, leaving the room with a quick step. -

Beruche was shocked and hurt by that answer, but above all she was also very worried. As soon as she pulled herself together, she ran after her sister and managed to catch up with her, holding her by the arm.

- Please wait, I didn't want to hurt you, but understand....

But Cooan, without listening to reason, shook her off and threw her to the ground.

- Leave me alone, I don't want to see you anymore, do you hear me? - She shouted at her with her eyes bathed in tears and rage and without letting her reply she ran away. -

Bertie also cried, the boys who were crossing the corridor were watching the scene with an astonished gesture. Only a girl, a classmate of hers, helped her up.

-Are you all, right? - The young woman asked kindly. -

-Yes, thank you, Betty. - The girl smiled, trying hard to control her sadness. -

- Is there anything I can do for you? - Her friend wanted to know, with a worried look on her face. -

-It's okay, I'm fine. It's nothing. - Bertie assured her. -

The other girl nodded, leaving her after saying goodbye. Beruche headed for her room. On the way she passed Melanie, who was in her cheerleading uniform. The young woman asked her.

-Hi Bertie, do you know where your sister is? We have a rehearsal. And there was no one in your room.

- Cooan is in a bad way, Melanie! - The girl sobbed, unable to stop herself from breaking down. -

- What happened? - She wanted to know with obvious concern. -

She helped her companion to sit on a bench in the corridor and watched her with an uneasy gesture. Beruche was able to pull herself together a little and tried to explain what had happened without being too explicit?

-She blames herself for Tom. I've tried to reason with her, but she's been very angry with me. And she's partly right...but me, I'm very worried. If she keeps this up, she's going to hurt herself. They'll both get hurt.

-Calm down. - Her interlocutor asked her in a kindly tone. - Sometimes we must check these things for ourselves. I understand her very well...

           Now Beruche looked at her friend with a guilty expression. Melanie, however, smiled, shaking her head.

-No, that's not what I mean. Don't be silly. I thought I was in love with Roy, but now I'm not sure. Maybe my own ego and pride reacted when he noticed you. That's why I was so aggressive with you. I'm not stupid and I knew perfectly well that during the years we were together he had been involved with other girls. And I did with other guys. However, since he met you, I haven't seen him look at another girl in the same way he looked at you...

Bertie was tempted to tell her about the episode with that she-devil. But it was much better to leave her classmate out of it. Although now she understood. It could be that Roy was under some suggestion. Then, she was a fool dominated by jealousy...It was clear that love was a beautiful thing, but if one knew how to channel it. Otherwise, it could become very dangerous. At that moment she remembered the Duchess Emerald. That girl had been a good person, very devoted to Queen Amethyst. However, she fell madly in love with Prince Diamond and as he did not reciprocate, she gradually became bitter. That, together with the influence of dark energy, ended up corrupting her soul.

-I am very lucky and I am sorry that my sister and Tom are in this situation. But to love is also to trust each other. And to have faith no matter what. And that is precisely what Cooan, and Tom should have now. - Bertie mused and replied to her interlocutor. - Thanks Mel.

-Now that I'm with Malcolm I can see that he loves me and looks at me in that special way. And I feel the same way. - The young woman affirmed. -

-I'm so happy for you. Yes, you're right. - Her companion granted her. -

-I'll give you some advice, as I promised. - The head cheerleader added, taking Beruche's hands in hers. - When your sister suffers the heartbreak you fear, don't leave her side. She will need a shoulder to cry on. Do for her what Malcolm did for me when he showed me that he really loved me. In Connie's case, though, you have nothing to fear. I am convinced that she and Tom are made for each other. And that they just need time to heal their wounds.

-That's true. - Her interlocutor smiled. - That's what I think. Thanks for being a good friend...

-You're welcome, you're one of us. - Melanie smiled and then checked her watch. - "I have to leave you. I'll be late. Oh, when it's all settled, tell Connie she's excused. She doesn't have to come to rehearsal. In fact, she's the best dancer of all of us, if she stays focused....

And she thought of April, too. That girl was going from bad to worse. After catching her in bed with that other girl, Melanie was shocked. Although, at the end of the day if her friend had those preferences, she was free to feel that way. Melanie wasn't going to censor it. What really bothered her was that her roommate was wandering around pale, as if she had seen a ghost. The cheerleading captain wanted to talk to her to try to help her, although she hadn't had a chance. It was as if this girl was in another world.

- Hopefully everything will work out! - Melanie wished after saying goodbye to Bertie and walking away to the training camp.

In fact, April had been trying to avoid crossing paths with Melanie, she knew that sooner or later the two of them would meet in her room and that it would be very embarrassing. Maybe she could think of something, related to those strange events that had happened.

-I'm sure they possessed me somehow. -She said to herself, trying to believe it so that she could persuade her friend. –

          And that's what she was thinking about when she crossed paths with that girl. That blonde who slept with her. She smiled at her when she saw her. However, she was holding hands with a handsome young man, and they seemed very fond of each other. Nevertheless, April greeted her as if nothing had happened between them.

- Are you all, right? - she asked with interest. -

However, the young woman and her male companion gave her a surprised look and she asked April.

-Excuse me, do I know you?

-No, well, I'm April Sinclair. I think you were new. I just wanted to say hello and tell you I'm here for you if you need any help. - She was able to improvise. -

-Not right now, thank you, April. My name is Marlene Cain, this is Walter Barston. - The young lady answered, introducing her companion. -

That boy offered her a hand which she shook. Then, both he and Marlene said goodbye, walking away once again holding hands.

-We'll see each other again. - That blonde girl promised her before leaving. -

April nodded and stood watching them. At last, she sighed.

-I'll go back to my room and try to explain what happened to Mel.

        For her part, Bertie thanked Melanie once again for her words and waved goodbye as she walked away. At last, she entered her room. Once there, she telephoned her sisters to tell them what had happened. In the meantime, Cooan, standing in a corner, was trying to calm herself to go and see Tom. She did not know that she had been watched from the Crystal ball of the Great Wiseman in his new headquarters. After a few moments in which he seemed to meditate on the situation, he went to one of those she-devils whom he had previously sent to appear before him.

- Meriak has failed, despite having the ability to see the future, that idiot did not see this coming. I hope you will be more successful, Saila.

- You can take it for granted sir. She let her passions for the females blind her. I, however, won't be so careless and I'll take down that other fool. - She pointed to Cooan who had finally recovered enough to go to Tom's room. - Now that she is weakened by anger and sadness it will be very easy for me to defeat her. At least being able to observe Meriak from your ball has been most useful. I've been able to get all the information that that weak and pathetic human she had sex with revealed to her. And I will use it to finish with that traitor.

- Out of curiosity - The Great Wiseman asked her. - How do you plan to do it?

Saila whispered the plan and the thunderous laughter of his superior echoed all over the place as he praised her with approval...

- You are devious, I congratulate you, I think I will enjoy this a lot.

-I assure you, not as much as me. First, I'll plunge her into absolute misery, then I'll get the information I want out of her and then I'll kill her, ha, ha! - The she-devil declared, she smiled maliciously, recreating herself in Cooan's image to gleefully spit out. - You are lost, pathetic Justiciera. Pray what you know if you have any deity willing to listen to you, for your minutes of life are numbered.

               And without further ado the succubus disappeared to begin her task and in the headquarters of the Sect only the diabolical laughter of the Great Wiseman was heard.

**START**