WONDER ( Twisted Forbidden Tales ) Book Three

Tantric Flower Trap Part Three

Alissa’s body slightly trembled with rage. Her response triggered me to grip the handle of my sword wanting to slice this woman into pieces. I had my suspicions about what her words meant, but the fact that the Tweedles called themselves Alissa’s friends made me want to vomit. How more twisted could things get at this point? I didn’t need to know what they had done nor the cause of the deep animosity between these three, all I knew was the strong need to protect Alissa from them and never let them touch her again.

“Forgiveness is for those who deserve it. The three of you never will earn that in any lifetime for all you’ve done, keep away from me, or suffer the consequences. Out of respect for Elder Shitake let’s leave things here and abide by the rules set for this season’s festival. Since all judges are present let's focus on the events before us tonight, shall we.” Alissa’s tone left no ground for rebuttal from Rabia. I watched as her fist now balled up at her sides. Walking up to Elder Shitake and Alissa my presence drew away the tense atmosphere bringing forth intrigue and interest in both the Tweedle’s once again and also Rabia D’ Angel.

“Oh my, what a fine specimen you are indeed. I’ve got quite the eye don’t I Zo, Zo?” Zuri’s grainy tone filtered over between Alissa and the D’ Angel posse.

“He definitely makes for a tasteful delight dear sister, but I haven't seen someone like him around before, we can’t just dabble recklessly. However, I’m intrigued and deeply craving to get to know him better,” said Enzo as his eyes landed on me giving a probing deep seductive perusal.

“Don’t even think about it Tweed! Keep your disgusting intentions and twisted thoughts elsewhere! He is not someone you can covet!” Alissa yelled out before I could speak. My eyes darted over to her in surprise and amusement at her quick retort toward the Tweedle and I wasn’t the only one looking. Elder Shitake kept his hands entwined across his stomach as he glanced at Alissa for a second then returned his attention to the D’Angel woman.

“How interesting!” Rabia said looking at me more deeply.

“Enough of this! We have some tester batches tonight for the judges to try since our recipe has been scratched and we are on limited time to make a winner. Based on our knowledge thus far I think we came up with something you’ll like. With a few more tweaks and pinches to it you just may be surprised old man. How about it?” Mr. Fly the the head of the MuDeath Family spoke up to diffuse the brewing situation this time.

“Oh, goodie! You don’t say, Mr. Fly. Why my taste buds have been humming for some good stew? Let’s go, everyone! That means you judges let’s get a move on. No one likes a sour puss.” Elder Shitake’s change of pace was so sudden, that it bordered on a bipolar flare. It didn’t escape his light hold on Alissa’s arm as he ushered her along with him and I followed close behind. My hair still stood on end with the Tweedles and that woman closed behind us.

The scent of sizzling delicacies wafts through the air again, drawing villagers and our lot to tables laden with a feast fit for kings. The sense of magic played a part in the vast change from Rabia’s arrival. Roasted mushrooms stuffed with herbs and cheese, skewers of succulent meats dripping with savory sauces, and pies overflowing with sweet, sticky berries—all tempt the senses and tantalize the taste buds.

Everyone here was on the same page as Elder Shitake. Their obvious protection toward Alissa brought a warm feeling to my heart at how much they cared for her as I did. However, it was the latter when it came to the D’Angels’s my senses became attuned to a familiar fishy type scent that wafted from Rabia, I caught her glance, and Enzo and Zuri Tweedle right before they arrived in front of the dishes displayed for the tester batches.

At that moment I suddenly realized something. Rabia D’Angel was here to serve as a distraction. While the contestants worked on the dishes at least one of those dishes had been tampered with. Testers or not made accidents perfect to happen. The final improved dishes would be served on the day of the main event. Alissa and Elder Shitake were on the other end of the long table starting on that end to try the different stews. There were twenty entrees from what I could count, with the Tweedle twins following behind them and giving pointers just like Alissa and Elder Shitake had done. But the closer they got to this end, the more concerned I became for Alissa.

“So, are you from around here, I swear I have never seen you before, how about I give you a special tour of MuDeath Village later, I promise you won't be disappointed.” Rabia D’Angel said in a flirtatious tone. I scoffed at her in disgust as she spoke. My eyes did not leave the two bowls before the last one on the table. My senses picked up that something was wrong with them.

“Piss off old woman!” I said, hearing her gasp beside me and then chuckle.

“You know what they say about fine wine young one. Don’t be spicy with me, that only makes me want to take a bite of you even more. I advise you not to pass up on my offer, you would be in for a real treat, I’m quite experienced when it comes to unique beings.” she said her voice turning to that of a purr. My stomach began to churn at the sound.

My skin crawled to the max now, she better not touch me, or else. I couldn’t take my eyes off those bowls let alone let Elder Shitake or Alissa taste what was in them. I had to think of something and fast. Though I pretended not to watch the two bowls of stew, my guard was up against this D’Angel woman in case she made a move too. She stood next to me for a reason. The closer she got to this end the more her aura surged triggering the runes on her suit. It seemed my ability to feel magic had been enhanced with the potion.

“And these two bowls are the ones you need to look out for,” said Mr. Fly as they finally reached this end.

“Yes, Elder Shitake, I’m sure you’ll enjoy the Enoki’s stew too Elder Shitake. Our bowl is the one on the left of theirs,” said Ms. Enoki, the head of the MuMedi Family as she approached us with a smile.

“Good, Good, so far I’ve tasted some pretty promising stews. You guys are giving it your best this season. Now with our pointers given to each of you thus far, the result will be a tough decision for who the winner will be. Alissa, you try this one and I’ll try this one. Let’s see as it is what you say.” Elder Shitake spoke, just as the revelry reached its peak, the sky above erupted in a dazzling display of color and light. Fireworks of every shape and size burst overhead, painting the night sky with streaks of crimson, emerald, and sapphire. The villagers gasped and cheered in delight, their faces aglow with wonder, but for me, I found myself rushing toward Alissa before the bowl could touch her lips.

Snatching the bowl from her I downed the contents in on one gulp. Leaving Alissa staring at me in shock right along with Rabia, the Tweedle twins, and Elder Shitake.

“You i***t! What did you do!” Zuri yelled out before Enzo could stop her.

“Imbeciles!” Rabia growled at Zuri making her cower behind Enzo in fear.

“What did you do to my stew D’ Angel? I knew the Mu Death Family was up to no good.” Mocked Ms. Enoki as she accused the guilty party outright.

“What was in the stew Rabia? Tell us now or I won’t let you go!” yelled Elder Shitake his rage was evident but his tone was an icy calm.

“Are you okay?” Alissa whispered as she looked at me full of concern.

“Yeah, I’m…” darkness surrounded me, and felt myself falling to the ground. The strange feeling of change washed over me. But at least I protected Alissa. If this was the way I was going out I would go out bravely. I wouldn’t let her fall into their hands again. Pain shot through me, followed by a flowing warmth and then peaceful silence. Was I in Alissa’s arms again? What had happened to me? Had I changed back to a normal cat? Then I couldn’t die just yet leaving her identity as the Mad Bandit to be exposed. I had to live through this fight by her side and complete my mission of helping my niece Snow and my best friend Talia.