Refreshed from their adventures in Paris, the four girls returned to their homes with a newfound sense of energy and purpose. Though their time in the City of Light had come to an end, the memories they had made together lingered in their minds, filling them with a renewed sense of excitement for the journey ahead.
As they settled back into their routines, their thoughts often drifted to the mysterious worlds that awaited them at Belial's side. Though their fear of the ancient demon remained strong, it was tempered by a growing confidence in their own abilities and the knowledge that, with Belial by their side, they would be able to achieve feats beyond their wildest imagination.
Their days were filled with preparations for the adventures that lay ahead, from honing their skills in combat and magic to studying ancient texts and lore in search of clues to their next destination. They trained tirelessly, pushing themselves to the limits of their abilities, determined to be ready for whatever challenges awaited them.
But amidst the excitement and anticipation, there was also a sense of trepidation—a nagging fear of the unknown and the dangers that lurked in the shadows. Yet, as they stood on the threshold of a new adventure, they knew that they could not let fear hold them back. For it was their courage and determination that had brought them this far, and it would be their strength that would carry them through the trials to come.
The streets of their hometown are bustling now, filled with people going about their daily lives. The girls walk shoulder-to-shoulder. As they walk along they happen to notice an unfamiliar man following them. They don't know who he is, but with their new found powers and new confidence they were not worried about being followed. Finally, Rachel stops and turns to face him squarely. Her chin raised in defiance, she declares, "Why are you following us, off with you."
"Have you forgotten me so quickly?" It was Belial, the entity they had summoned from another realm, who had bound them to him until they fulfill their his wishes.
Rachel hesitated momentarily then replied, "Don't worry, our promise still stands." The others nod in agreement, their resolve unwavering. Despite the danger and uncertainty that lies ahead, they stand together – bonded by blood and magic. "Why are you here now?"
"Excellent," he said, "In 3 weeks when the moon is full, I shall come and get you be prepared"
The girls exchange worried glances at his cryptic message. Three weeks seems like an eternity when faced with such a terrifying prospect. But they hold their ground, refusing to back down from their promise. As he vanishes into the crowd, leaving them alone once again, they huddle together for comfort and reassurance. Each knows what they must do in preparation for his arrival. It will not be easy, but they are determined to see this through to the end – no matter the cost.
As he disappeared into the crowd, he call back to them. "Do you believe in werewolves? You should."
The girls shiver involuntarily at his parting words. Suddenly, the night feels even colder and more menacing than before. They share uneasy glances, unsure if they should run or stay put. But running won't save them; they made a deal, after all. "Do you really think..." whispers Hannah, her voice trembling with fear. "Maybe we should find some books about this," suggests Ellie calmly, pulling out her phone. Clare, however, remains silent throughout the exchange, her mind somewhere else entirely.
Three weeks passed and it's the night of the full moon. Belial waves his hand and the four girls magically appear in front of me coming from wherever they may have been. "Are you ready?" he asks.
The girls are visibly shaken as they materialize before him. While it isn't their first time being summoned like this, it isn't something they will easily get use to. Their eyes were wide with fear and anticipation, their hearts thumping wildly in their chests. They stand shoulder-to-shoulder, finding strength in each other's presence. Hannah slips her hand into Rachel's, seeking comfort from her friend's steadfast resolve. Hannah swallows hard, hoping against hope that this wasn't a terrible mistake. Rachel raises her chin defiantly, ready to lead them into whatever darkness lay ahead. And Ellie? Well, Ellie just grins, seemingly oblivious to the gravity of their situation. "We're ready," they chant in unison.
"You indeed look prepared but you need the proper outfits." Belial waves my hand and their clothing is replaced by sturdy outfits with leather protecting the vital parts of their body. Good for bites and scratches.
As their attire morphs once more under your command, they can't help but marvel at the power he wields. Their new outfits are more practical than their previous ones – leather armor protecting their torsos and thighs, heavy boots shielding their feet from whatever terrain they might encounter. It feels strange yet exhilarating, like riding a rollercoaster without knowing where it will take you. They stand together, ready to face whatever challenge comes next. Even Ellie looks slightly less concerned now, her eyes wide with excitement rather than anxiety.
"Are you prepared? Do you have confidence in the others? Remember a weak link could spell your demise." Belial, looked to each of them.
The girls nod solemnly, each taking a moment to silently assess the strength of their companions. They may not always see eye-to-eye or get along perfectly, but they know that they need each other to survive this nightmare.
"We've got this," whispers Rachel, squeezing Hannah's hand reassuringly.
"Just focus on the task at hand," reminds Clare, her voice steady despite the trembling in her limbs. Ellie simply smirks, her eyes gleaming with battle-ready determination.
Belial waves his hand and they are all transported to the center of a large dark forest. "Yes, there are werewolves and wolves that we will encounter." Belial stated, "Close your eyes and picture the weapons most appropriate for you to use." As they think, Belial waves his hand and the weapons they choose begin to appear in their hands.
The girls close their eyes tight, minds spinning with images of their newfound weapons. With each passing second, they can feel the weight of these tools in their hands, feel the energy coursing through their veins as adrenaline surges through their systems. When they open their eyes again, there they are – standing armed with the most powerful weapons their thoughts believed they should use. There are swords, daggers,...even magic wands and a couple potions. It's almost too much to take in.
But one glance at each other tells them everything they need to know: they're ready. No matter how terrifying or unpredictable this journey may become, they know that they can rely on each other – and these newfound weapons – to ensure their survival. Even Ellie seems slightly subdued by the gravity of the situation, her eyes fixed intently on her newly acquired sword. Looking over to Clare, when their eyes met Clare gave her a simple nod of her head, Ellie acknowledged her back with a confirming nod.
And so, with hearts filled with courage and determination, they set out once more into the unknown, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. For they knew that no matter what trials awaited them, they would face them together, united in their quest for knowledge and power, and guided by the unwavering light of friendship and trust.