• It was silent. Nithie went up and out the door, only to see Kari in the grip of a wicked sorcerer, commanded by Catherine. All Nithie could do was listen to what breathing sounds Kari made.
    "Kari..." Nithie whispered.
    "So, that's this weakling's name? Fits perfectly." The sorcerer concluded. "Now, you. With the pink cape."
    "What?" Nithie replied.
    "The boss wants to see you,"
    "Put Kari down first."
    "Not until you agree to go."
    "I will."
    "What!?! Are you insane!?!" Akira said in disbelief. Nithie slightly turned her head and winked at Akira.
    "I will go if you put Kari down and spare her." Nithie said.
    "Fine." The sorcerer dropped Kari. She fell to the ground, with a little gasp of pain when she landed. Kari slowly got up and limped her way to Akira and Nithie.
    "Ok. I'll go... away now!" Nithie said with a grin. She grabbed Akira and Kari, then ran to the hideout.
    "Rrrrrr... You twisted little..." The sorcerer cursed. He muttered a little bit, then left.

    "So you had it planned all along?" Akira questioned.
    "Uh huh. Is Kari going to be Ok?" Nithie worried.
    "Yeah, she'll be fine. So, while she's not gonna get up and leave, I'd better explain this whole thing to you." Akira was about to start, when...
    "No need. I already know. I don't know how I know, though."
    "Cleverness and Knowledge. You know what that means?" Akira asked, brightening up.
    "Yup. I'm a true Soul Reader." Nithie replied excitedly.

    (Yeah, it's almost bedtime. I gotta go brush mah teethies.)