A Twisted Halloween II: Spectral Soiree

Chapter 11: Take More Interest

Meanwhile, arriving at the Ethereal Canyon, Trey, Rook, Sebek, and Deuce are surprised to find themselves in another location.

"Wow, who'd have thought that door would lead to someplace so.. Classy," Deuce says, surprised.

"It has an entirely different style from the castle we first encountered. What fascinating architecture," Rook says, very impressed.

Sebek is surprised, "My word! Those roofs look just like Ramshackle's did after Malleus and Lilia decorated it!"

"Do they? You must have a good memory for details," Trey questions.

Then Sebek says, "Ugh, humans! Malleus and Lilia disigned that decor personally. You should take more interest in it! I studied every facet of their design, and I am certain this architecture is from the East, where tales of the long abound!"

"The long, hm? I do recall an eastern legend about a dragon that safeguarded a family for generations. Considering Diasomnia's costume theme, perhaps Malleus based the decor off those stories," Rook says.

"What's this about a dragon guarding a family?" Trey asks.

Rook answers, "As the story goes, a certain family had ancestors who watched over the prosperity of their descendants for generations. Whenever the family was in danger, the ancestors would send a long to aid them."

"Protecting a family for generations... Sounds like a sweeping tale," Deuce replies.

"Yeah, we don't really have traditions about ancestors like that in the Queendom of Roses," Trey adds.

Then turns to Sebek, "What about in Briar Valley, Sebek? I'm guessing it's pretty different from our home."

"In Briar Valley, there are tales about powerful fairies who bless newborn babies and watch over them... But I haven't heard many fables about family ancestors. I suppose it might have something to do with how long the fae live," Sebek answers.

"What a fascinating perspective," Rook replies.

Then Sebek says, "There's also the fact that my family moved to Briar Valley in my grandfather's day. So we don't have a long history there. I heard my grandfather lived in Sunset Savanna when he was a young lad. My mother married my father, and we don't live with my grandfather anymore... So I doubt my family is much different than yours. Mine is just an ordinary family running a dental clinic."

"Wait, what?" Trey asks, confused.

And is shocked, "Your family has a dental clinic?!"

"That's right," Sebek answers, "My grandfather was a gallant royal guard who served the king of Briar Valley... Yet his daughter - my mother - married a man who is, sadly, just a plain old dentist."

But Trey questions, "What? There's nothing plain about it."

And says, "Being a dentist is an incredible profession!"

"...It is?" Sebek asks.

"For sure. I'd love to hear all about -" But before Trey can finish, uninvited guests appear.

Mainly ghost guards.

One of them says, "Hey! We got some live ones!"

That catches the group by surprise.

"Goodness, there are ghosts all the way out here?" Rook says.

Deuce however grows bitter at them and says, "So you think you can just waltz right up to us, do ya? WELL THINK AGAIN!"

In fury, Deuce says, "It's payback time!"

And yup, Deuce is still mad at the ghost for possessing him and making do embarrassing stuff.