Subj: The Diary Of Victor North Pt.6
Date: 4/23/99 6:38:31 PM Central Daylight Time
From: marcos1

"Powerless," Nicholas said, softly. He cast his eyes downward. "That is what Angelique did to me, took away all of my magic and made me a mortal man."

Barnabas couldn't believe his eyes. The proud warlock appeared totally crest-fallen. But then something happened, Barnabas laughed...laughed loudly to scorn. "This serves you right. It's poetic justice...simply perfect."

"I understand your feelings in this," Nicholas said. "It is at least partially my fault that you are a gnome." He smiled broadly. "But I've always respected you, Mr.Collins and viewed you a most worthy adversary."

"Why are you telling us this?" Eliot Stokes asked. "I know you, Blair. There is always a purpose to your every action. You are a master of deceit."

Nicholas petted the small bulldog on his head. "Professor, you make a handsome dog." He sipped his keg of ale. "But as usual, you are correct. I seek your help. And in return I shall help you."

Barnabas and Stokes glanced at each other. Barnabas shook his head in disbelief. But then their attention was drawn to Josette, who was flying around the room, shooting fairy sparks and laughing. Her laughter had a tinny sound, like a music box, sounding like little bells. This unusual display was attracting the attention of everyone in the Mug-house.

"What is wrong with her?" Barnabas asked, raising his eyebrows.

Nicholas laughed with great gusto. It was a belly laugh that made the table shake. "Has Miss Josette been drinking springwater?"

Barnabas put his hands on his hips. "Yes, what of it?"

"One glass of springwater is fine. But more than one, can make a fairy princess, drunk as a mouse," Nicholas said. He stood up. "Come my friends. Let us leave here. We have an adventure waiting for us."

~~~

And so the four of them, left the tavern. A displaced warlock, a bulldog, gnome, and drunken fairy.

To be continued