The Shadows of Darkness: Part Two

by nanjikat

Master Techo called all of the students together.

"My dear students, something has come up. The school is closed until further notice. You must all go home. For those who are year-round students, we have found some temporary homes for you until the school reopens. I'm very sorry. I hope this can be over soon."

Many of the students were worried, especially the year-rounds. Many weren't happy about having to go to a foster home, while others were scared to leave. Many had been abandoned at the school when they were born and had never known any other home. Why would the Techo Master do this?

"Adria, Sandre, could I see you for a moment?" said a voice behind us. We both jumped. When we turned around,we saw the Techo Master. He gestured towards his consultation room, and we followed.

"I have a favor to ask of you two," the Master began. "You were there when the Mystic went into his trance. You both know that something is going on. Now, I'll tell you what has been told to me by the Mystic."

Me and Sandre looked at each other. Why was he going to tell us and not the rest of the school? We looked at the Master and waited for him to continue.

"You both remember Dr. Sloth, I assume?" he said. We nodded. "Well, he wasn't defeated by the Space Faerie, as you were told. He disappeared. He was searched for all over Neopia, but nobody could find him. He's still alive, somewhere, and the Mystic has foreseen his return. He's coming back, worse than before, and the Mystic is not sure if Neopia will win this time..."

Just then one of the teachers ran into the room. "The Mystic's recipe for Transformation potions has been stolen!" he cried. The Techo Master's eyes widened with worry. Mine did too. If Dr Sloth had that recipe, there was no telling what he'd mix up. I looked at Sandre. He didn't look very worried. It disturbed me, but I shrugged it off. He'd always been braver than me. He was never scared.

Techo Master looked at us. "I'll need to ask you that favor now. Deep in the Ice Caves there is a room which contains several magical items. They once belonged to the Faeries, but were stolen by Balthazar. If the Faeries can get these back, then they will be able to defeat Dr Sloth once and for all. The thing is, the passageways are too small for an adult to fit through. We need children to go and get the items. Will you help us?"

I hesitated. It sounded dangerous. Sandre, however, said "Of course we will! Those items are Neopia's only hope!" I shook off my fear. Sandre was right, we had to go! For Neopia!

"I'm glad to hear that," the Master said. "Follow me..."

To be continued...