The First Testament of the Altruist

Preface

I am a menial laborer.

I wrote this book in my free time, for fun, over the course of approximately 12 months. November 2017 - November 2018. I edited from November 5, 2018 to January 2, 2019.

Special Thanks to

Japan: Part 1 (1 – 11)

China: Part 2 (12)

Death: Part 3 (13)

I tried my best.

1.1

The August sun peeks through dusty windows, speckled shadows of lace curtains dance across the faces of two girls standing in a dingy kitchen with cheap plastic flooring and fading yellowed floral wallpaper. The two girls identical in dress and looks, only distinguishable by the drinking of milk and the red hairband one of them wore.

Stacy, hurry up, we might be late.

One more glass. You should drink more milk too, Stella.

Stella sighs and rolls her eyes.

Ok, let’s go. She says

The two grab their matching messenger bags, and walk through the living room towards the door.

We’re going to school, Dad. Try to get up off the couch and do something today. Says Stella

I always do something. Mumbles their father, more than half asleep

Drinking isn’t something, drinking is doing nothing. Jokes Stacy

I sleep, I smoke. I do plenty of things. We’re all still alive, last time I checked. I take pride in that, you know. Retorts their father, unsure of himself by confusion alone, grasping for something, defensive but a bit too proud to be embarrassed

Just don’t die, ok? Love you, dad! says Stacy cheerfully

Roger that. You two have fun at school, you both look real nice. He says, looking at the girls, smiling, still lying on the couch

We will! See you later! Stella says as the girls exit the house

The girls walk towards the city, the skyline in view in the distance over the tops of tired pastel colored townhouses. The green of hats of the streetside trees spaced evenly along the sidewalk sway in the slight breeze. The two catch the eye of occasional passers-by from the smiles old women to the wide eyes of grinning young men. The pretty girls politely smile back, continuing on their path.

Are you excited for your first day of high school? asks Stella cheerily

Nervous.

It will be great, aren’t your friends going to be there?

Yeah, but that’s only two people. Other than that I only know you. Says Stacy

I’m sure I will still get to see you though, it’s not like you will have any trouble making friends anyways.

Stacy laughs anxiously, I guess it’s just the jitters.

The girls completed their journey of a few blocks and become like a drop of water in a pool, two girls among a sea of girls in identical red plaid skirts, white shirts, red ties and red bows. The two girls’ matching platinum blonde hair serves as a beacon for somebody searching from them.

A girl followed by waves of long amber hair comes rushing towards the girls, her emerald eyes full of excitement as she meets the two.

She grabs Stacy by the hands, exclaiming Stacy we are in the same class!

That’s great. Stacy says softly and smiling

It’s the luck of the Irish!

See Stacy, I told you it would be great. By the way it’s good to see you too Ophelia. Says Stella

Sorry I don’t know what class you are in Stella, I didn’t see your name on ours though. Replies Ophelia.

I’ll go try and find out, I wouldn’t want to be late on the first day. I’ll see you two later says Stella.

Yay, we get to spend all day together now! says Ophelia, still giddy

If only I could be as excited as you are about going to school. Says Stacy, a bit glum

Come on, it will be awesome, Jenna is even in our class, we’re all together. Says Ophelia

That’s great, we should really head to class though, you better lead the way, since you seem to know where you’re going. Says Stacy

The girls make their way through the crowded halls towards their homeroom. The bell rings as they walk in the door, both of them waving at Jenna, a black haired girl sitting in the front of the class, before walking towards the back of the room taking up two unoccupied seats.

Please settle down. I am Ms. Appleton and I teach English. This will be your homeroom and these will be your classmates for the next year here at Southern Preparatory School. The middle aged woman continues to talk about the high expectations for the girls here and the standards of excellence that each student should aspire to achieve. As she concludes her talk she informs the girls that each student is required to join an extracurricular club and for this reason the upperclassmen will be recruiting freshman during the club day activities following school. She again sternly reminds the class that attending club day and joining a club is mandatory.

Following the introduction, the girls areeach handed their schedules for the day and the true class starts up as one would expect with paperwork and explanations of what will be read and whatnot. It is all rather unremarkable, and for the most part the standard fare of freshman. When the class is asked if they had read any of the books over the summer, Stacy avoids eye contact with the teacher, a little embarrassed, as she and Ophelia were the only ones who hadn’t read at least one of the books on the syllabus. Ophelia doesn’t seem to mind, carefree as always.

The teacher then goes down the row to ask people to stand up, introduce themselves and say something about themselves.

Stacy is too nervous to pay attention to what anyone else says, but it eventually comes time for her to speak. I am Stacy White… and… um… I have a twin? she says anxiously as she softly chuckles out of nervousness. Good to meet you Stacy. Says the teacher

Next is Ophelia My name is Ophelia Reid, and I am Irish! says Ophelia  Well then, top of the morning to ya, Ophelia. Says the teacher in a feigned Irish accent, the class laughs.

Jenna introduces herself, too softly to be heard in the back, and says something about how she wants to be a doctor.

The class is unremarkable, soon it ends and the students shuffle about towards their next class. The same silly introductions happen all day and the subject matter of the courses is briefly touched upon if at all. Ophelia happened to be in all of the same classes as Stacy. She had somehow guessed that correctly before seeing either of their schedules.

The school was set up to have club time followed by lunch, which happened quite late in the day in order to fit all of the classes in beforehand, but still the ringing of the lunch bell is a relief to all students who had grown tired of the strict and rigid atmosphere of school after only a day, looking forward to the unknown of club activities far more than the familiar torture of school

The cafeteria sprawls through the middle of the school with plenty of seats and tables for everybody. Most students line up for the school lunch, but some had packed their own. Ophelia waves down Jenna as she enters the lunchroom and the three proceeded to get their meal. There is one choice for lunch, and that is lunch. It is bean soup in a lidded plastic container, a slice of crusty bread, and a carton of milk. The friends take their trays to eat outside and enjoy the weather.

We dress plainly and we eat plainly. What a place. Sighs Ophelia

Humility is a virtue. Says Jenna

I didn’t think this was a Christian school. Laughs Ophelia

There are only so many things they can serve that provide legally adequate nutrition while accounting for common allergies and dietary preferences. Says Jenna

So the girls who won’t eat meat and are allergic to god knows what are the reason we are eating like this is a monastery. Says Ophelia

It’s pretty good. Says Jenna, after taking a bite of the thick soup

The milk is good. Says Stacy, apparently happy for the first time since school started

Of course the kitten is happy when she gets her milk. Teased Ophelia

Milk will make you big and strong. Says Stacy, smiling, flexing her arms as if she were a bodybuilder

Then why are you still such a cute little kitten and not a big strong lioness? says Ophelia, laughing

Come on, She’s not that small. Says Jenna, embarrassed for Stacy’s sake though Stacy didn’t seem to mind

Ophelia, you know I’m average height for a girl my age. Says Stacy, challenging Ophelia’s claim boldly

Did you forget about the other measurements, Stacy? says Ophelia, with a smug grin

I’d be more concerned with your academic measurements than my breasts and ass, Ophelia, but maybe I’m not attending a prestigious girl’s school for the same reasons that you are. Teases Stacy, grinning

Last time I checked those were not particular flattering, but that’s beside the point. We should be talking about what club we want to join. Says Jenna

I don’t even know what clubs are out there. Says Stacy

Same. Clubs sound lame anyways. Says Ophelia

Regardless, we still have to join one. I’m sure it’s all the normal things you would expect like sports, hobbies, and academic subjects. Says Jenna

Stacy sighs, We’ll just figure it out when we’re staring down the barrel of that gun.

Fine. Says Jenna

By the way Stacy, where’s your sister? Says Ophelia

Who knows, probably with her friends, it’s not like I keep tabs on her. says Stacy

I was thinking we could all be in the same club, it would be fun. Says Jenna

I don’t think you would want to be in whichever stoic academic club Stella ends up in anyways, Ophelia. Says Jenna

Ophelia laughs, embarrassed, You’re probably right.

The bell signaling the end of lunch rings.

Ophelia, are you going to drink your milk? asks Stacy

I’ll let you have it if you nuzzle up against me and mew, let me pet you. Teased Ophelia

Stacy clearly annoyed, stands up and walks over to Ophelia and takes her milk.

No Stacy, be my kitty. Says Ophelia, patting her lap

Stacy stares at her at her between gulps. Ophelia tries to hug Stacy into her lap, but Stacy quickly dodges the advance

You’ve got to admit, that was a great cat impression, coldhearted and only interested in you for the food. Says Jenna, giggling

Look at how nice I am Ophelia, I even gave you what you wanted. Says Stacy smiling

That’s not what I wanted. Says Ophelia disheartened

Anyways let’s go. Says Jenna

The girls head out back towards the school and make their way to the gymnasium and surrounding hallways where clubs had been setting up their displays on folding tables with poster board signs. There are large crowds in front of some of the tables, other’s ignored completely.

Wonder what is so popular over there. Say Ophelia, pointing to a large group of people completely obscuring the sign for a club

Trust me; whatever is popular here is going to be the worst time. These girls are all academic masochists; they will eat up anything that makes them work for 40 hours a week in order to look better on college applications. Let’s use a logical approach and go to some of the less popular tables. Says Stacy

They walk up to a deserted table. The sign says Wrestling Club. Two large muscular girls become very excited when they saw the three approaching

So you want to join the Wrestling Club, eh? says a stout girl with a rough deep voice dressed in a leotard with triceps the size of Stacy’s thighs and a muscular core as wide as her shoulders.

I don’t know; what do you do in the Wrestling Club? I’ve seen some pro wrestling now and then, it’s quite the spectacle, is this some kind of fan club? asks Stacy almost ashamed of the wrestlers costumes, avoiding eye contact

You’re looking for the pro wrestling club; this is just the normal kind. The answer to that question is simple. The other equally imposing wrestler responds, We lift weights and we wrestle.

I see, says Stacy It’s probably not for me, I’m not very strong and I’m pretty small, you would just have you way with me.

Oh ho ho, I would like that. Says the first wrestler, grinning But that’s not how it works; your size is to your advantage and you only wrestle people in your own weight class.

I don’t know, I’m not very athletic. Says Stacy dismissively

Come on Stacy, it would be fun. You’ve always been a little fighter on the inside. Teases Ophelia.

Stacy rolls her eyes

Sadly, I’ve got some bad news for you. Stacy here is built like an ideal wrestler, small and aerodynamic. On the other hand, those assets you’ve got would easily put you in another weight class by themselves and sadly they don’t provide any advantage when wrestling, it’s just dead weight. Says the second wrestler, grimacing

Wow Stacy, the whole time I’ve had it wrong, I thought you were underdeveloped but it turns out the whole time you were just aerodynamic. Giggles Ophelia.

Jesus, Ophelia, they really must have struck a nerve for you to try to deflect the one possible instance of corporeal rejection on to me. I guess it hurts when somebody puts your only redeeming features in the same category as your brain. Says Stacy smugly By the way, what about Jenna here, she’s quite the athlete, you don’t want her?

Well you see, Jenna here, she is more of a swimmer. She is quite tall and that is a major disadvantage in wrestling, she gets a lot of her weight from her bones and organs and all that is going to be pure muscle on a shorter girl when she goes to wrestle. Those long weak arms are going to get manhandled real easily by a little girl with a bunch of fight in her. Says the first wrestler

That’s ok; I’m not that much of an athlete anyways. I may look athletic but I’m not particularly competitive, certainly not enough to win a fight. Thanks for your time, ladies, but we’re all trying to join the same club, so I don’t think this is right for us. Says Jenna, rubbing the back of her head,

Come back to see us Stacy; sport wrestling starts in the winter! We want your body! Says the second wrestler

Looks like I’m not the one with people making envious remarks about my body today. I told you it feels weird. Jokes Ophelia as they walk away

Not in a weird way! Please do come back in the winter! Says the wrestler

The girls walk past some more clubs stopping at the sewing club.

A few pretty pieces of well-made clothes are hung up, frilly blouses and stylish dresses.

So you girls are looking to learn the skills to pay the bills, eh? says the seamstress at the table

I was a little more optimistic about my future than working in a sweatshop where nobody speaks English, but these do look like the skills to please your husband, if that’s what you mean. Says Ophelia, Jenna glares at her

The seamstress laughs nervously No, no, don’t be silly. A seamstress is a fine job; many people need to have their clothes adjusted and some of them even want you to make them some custom designed pieces. It’s loads of fun; you could even become a fashion designer. She says

That actually does sound fun; I would love to be a fashion designer. Says Jenna

Jenna, the word is housewife; you will become a housewife mending your children’s clothes and adjusting your husband’s pants as he gets fatter. I’ve seen my mom do this my whole life, and despite her endless knowledge of fixing clothes, she is clearly not a fashion designer. Pretty much every woman knows how to sew, but only one in a million actually makes it into the fashion industry. I thought you had bigger dreams than becoming a housewife, but maybe you’ve had a change of heart. Teases Ophelia

In that case this would be the perfect club for you Ophelia; becoming a housewife seems to be one of the brightest possible futures that God may have in store for you. Says Jenna, dryly

I already know how to sew, but if they had a club about how to keep men happy, I would certainly be interested in that one. Says Ophelia

You definitely don’t want to join that one; men can’t be happy, they can only be pleased, and I’m sure you’d be in endless trouble with your parents if you took up those pursuits. Jokes Stacy

The seamstress laughs nervously. Sorry, I don’t think that’s a club here today.

The three look at the seamstress a bit dumbfounded, before Stacy starts laughing boisterously.

I think your club is great, but I have to look after my foolish friends here, so we’re trying to join a club together, and I would hate to make you deal with someone so dense they cannot appreciate your work. Your clothes are beautiful and I hope you can find somebody worthy of your tutorage. Says Jenna

The seamstress blushes Wow, thanks. I’m Eloise by the way, if you free some time you can stop by and maybe get measured, we would love for you to be a model for our community functions. A tall beautiful girl like you can really compliment a dress like most of our members can’t, sadly.

I would be honored; hopefully I can find a playpen to stick these two children in so I can maybe do something fulfilling with women of elegant tastes for once rather than be a nanny. Says Jenna

I’m not a child. Gripes Stacy

You look like a child. teases Ophelia

You have the intellect of a child. retorts Stacy, as the girls walk away in pursuit of something

Jenna sighs, See what I mean? she says

It’s ok, at least you have friends; they’re silly, but that’s fine. It can be rough time for some of the new girls; I know it was for me. Anyways, our club meets in the home economics room during the club period, if you just want to say hello.

I’ll definitely come to see you if I can find the time! Take Care! says Jenna as she waves, walking back to catch up with her friends

Let’s find something we all can enjoy. Something simple. Says Jenna

A few girls surround a table with swooning over a tri-fold of pictures of animals. The three approached the table; the poster said Animal Club.

A pretty girl with a kind face, golden hair and aqua eyes greets them.

So you girls like animals? she asks, smiling

I love animals! Ophelia says excitedly

Then this is the club for you; we are all about animals, we love them. I’m Aurelia, by the way.

What does the club do exactly? asks Jenna

We are crusaders for our furry friends; we heal the sick and wounded, we feed the hungry, we give homes to the homeless, we give hope to the hopeless, and above all else, we give love to the unloved.

That sounds pretty ambitious. Jenna says nervously

Well, we mostly just volunteer at the animal shelter and raise money for charity, but I think it sounds better the way I say it. Says Aurelia

Aww, look at these cute puppies! These kittens look just like you Stacy! says Ophelia, pointing at a group of white kittens

Though we can’t really go to the shelter every day, in our club room we spend a lot of time learning about animals or just looking at pictures. Says Aurelia

Oh, I was worried for a second, I don’t know if Ophelia over there could handle the learning part, but she’s good at looking at pictures as you can tell. Teases Jenna, frustrated with the childishness of her friends

Stacy chuckles, Don’t you want to be a doctor, Jenna? Helping sick animals sounds like a start in the right direction. She says

Do you like animals though Stacy? I remember you were afraid of dogs when you were smaller. Says Jenna

Don’t worry about it, Stacy, chimes in the bored looking girl besides Aurelia Some of us just use the time to do our homework. You don’t really have to love animals.

I guess I like animals enough. Besides, I’m not scared of dogs any more, it’s just that most of them used to be way bigger than me, but I’m ok with them now. Says Stacy, defensively

If you like cats more you can work with them. All of the animals need love says Aurelia A lot of them won’t let you pet them but they will play with toys sometimes and be really glad that you feed them. Really low impact stuff. Says Aurelia

That sounds nice; I think I can handle that. Says Stacy.

Ok, Ophelia, do you want to join this club? says Jenna, Ophelia having been absorbed by the many pictures of animals lying around, flipping through magazines

Oh yes, please, please, please! she says giddily

Then it is decided. Says Jenna

Really? Yay! says Ophelia

Just sign your name on the paper and you will become official members of the Animal Club. Says Aurelia. Welcome Aboard!

Anchors away! says the bored girl, sarcastically

If you’re not going to help me recruit people just be quiet Sloan. Says Aurelia, the three sign the paper

I’m just giving the girls a second reason to join. I’m just being your backup saleswoman. Says Sloan

It sounds like you would rather be in the Homework club, Sloan. Says Aurelia, mildly put off

Sloan laughs, "No way; those girls actually like doing their homework. No way I’d want to be in a room with those weirdos; I might end up getting into other forms of masochism." Says Sloan, in dry jest

Aurelia rolls her eyes Just ignore her; we are glad you want to join us and look forward to spending time with you! Our club room is 247 a biology room on the second floor, you can’t miss it because of the sound of the bird in there. See you tomorrow afternoon! She says

See you later. The three said

1.2

The girls walk away, all of them satisfied in some way, even if Stacy is only satisfied with the feeling of having completed the school day, far earlier than scheduled thanks to their efficiency. They walk out into the courtyard.

We should do something to commemorate our first day of school! says Ophelia

Like what? asks Stacy

I don’t know. I’m not too familiar with this part of town so I don’t know what there is to do around here. Says Ophelia

We could just go exploring or something. I’m sure we’d find something to do. Says Stacy

Do you think your sister wants to come, Stacy? asks Jenna

I’ll ask. Stacy sends her sister a text message

I saw a park while I was walking; maybe we could go there. I saw tetherball and other things Says Ophelia

I think that would be great; you two need to let out some of your silly aggression somehow. Says Jenna

I’ll be sure to turn that aggression into depression once I whoop you at tetherball Ophelia.

Yeah right, bring it on! Stacy replies

Stacy receives a message. It’s Stella, she says she will be coming home late; she says she joined the student council and they have a lot of things to explain to the new recruits.

Your sister is crazy. It’s the first day of school and she decides that she needs more responsibilities than getting perfect grades. Says Ophelia

She never seems to have trouble in school; I’m sure that she just wants something to  challenge her and give her something to care about; just showing up and getting good grades is a kind of empty existence, don’t you think? says Stacy

I’m sure she just cares about the school and the students, even here it seems where she doesn’t know anybody. She has always been that way. Says Jenna

It’s true. There’s no point waiting around for her though, so let us embark. Our adventure awaits. Says Stacy. Lead the way Ophelia and prepare for the demise of your pride.

The girls laugh, walk out the gates of the school and head down the street. The late summer sun is still high in the sky as they pass by buildings full of people still toiling through the work day. The streets are fairly quiet save for the murmuring echoes of schoolgirls dispersing like water trickling out of a dam.

The girls show up at the park, small children playing with their parents and the wild school children playing in a soccer field and on basketball courts. The tetherball stands idle, a bit ragged but still functional. The Stacy and Ophelia start to playfully hit the ball back and forth, their competitive nature solely a personality trait rather than an extension of any athletic capability.

You are too big, too slow, you can never match my speed! shouts Stacy as she hits the ball which lazily swings to the other side

You are weak, like a child; you will soon learn that it is foolish to challenge your master. Replies Ophelia as she strikes the ball with a comparable lack of force

My strength comes from within; your big muscles tire easily, but my soul will never weaken! says Stacy

Jenna sits on the grass, entertained by their playful nature. A dog barks from behind them, the look over to see a large albeit friendly looking dog panting and looking at them.

A doggie! says Ophelia excitedly Let’s go pet him.

I don’t know if that’s a good idea. Says Stacy timidly

Ophelia doesn’t listen and runs over and starts to pet the dog. The other girls follow her.

What is your name Mr. Dog? says Ophelia cutely

How do you know my name? says a voice, the dog staring intently at Ophelia, mouth closed

Um.. did you just hear a voice just now? asks Stacy timidly

You can speak? asks Ophelia

The dog turns its head sideways and barks.

Not like that, silly, like how you just spoke in English, Mr. Dog. Says Ophelia playfully, completely oblivious to the surreal nature of the situation, too overwhelmed by the cuteness

That is telepathy. I am curious as to how you already knew my name, little girl. Says the voice

Um, I guess I’m a good guesser. Says Ophelia, playfully nonchalant, as the two other girls stare at her dumbfounded

Please call me Wolf, Mr. Dog was my father, I am unworthy of such a noble title. There is a reason I am here, why I speak to you, I must ask for your help, it is very important. Staring at the girls seriously

Ok Wolfie, how can we help? asks Ophelia sincerely

The dog rolls over onto its back, Rub my belly. He says, grinning expectantly

Ok! says Ophelia as she rubs his belly. I’m happy to help you.

Oh yes, this is very good. Thank you very much. Says the dog

You are such a good boy, so nice and polite. Says Ophelia

There is one more thing I must ask of you girls. That wasn’t it, I just wanted that belly rub, so badly; it’s been so long. Thank you for that much, at least. Says the dog

We’d be happy to help! says Ophelia

I am ashamed of this; my family used to be able to do this by ourselves, but the world is no longer the wild place it once was. I need you three to help me do good and fight evil. I will grant each of you a wish, to give you whatever magical powers you ask for to help you accomplish this task if you promise to help me. Just tell me what power you wish to use to help me and I shall grant it to you.

Wow really, a wish? Says Ophelia Since it was love that brought me to you, I wish for the power of love!

Wonderful says the dog.

Damn it, Ophelia. This is crazy. We’re not doing this. Says Stacy

No, Stacy, we are part of the Animal Club; it is our duty to help this very nice dog. Says Ophelia indignantly

She needs the help of both of you; she will not be able to do this all by herself. Please, help me, help your friend; you girls have the power to help the helpless, please think of those in need.

Ok… says Jenna I’m pretty sure that I’m losing my mind right here; I know magic and talking dogs don’t exist, but if she needs help, I’ll just go ahead and wish for the power to help people?

That is wonderful. Says the dog

You are the last one, give me your wish, little girl. The Dog looks at Stacy.

You are kidding me right? We’re all going crazy? This is a talking dog for crying out loud. Says Stacy, quite upset

This is no joke; these girls need you to help them in their journey, please wish for some power, anything, and it shall be granted. Says the dog

I believe I am on the brink of death to be hallucinating like this, but I’ll go ahead and wish for omnipotence, Mr. magical dog. Grant that wish. Says Stacy, rolling her eyes in disbelief

I am sorry, but I can only grant you powers that I have; I have many powers, but if I had that one I wouldn’t need your help, would I? Please think of something else.

How about omniscience, is that too big for you? I’m just trying to get some bang for my buck if we’re fantasizing about wishes. Says Stacy sarcastically

That, I can do. Thank you for choosing to help me. Says the dog

The dog winks his eye and appears to smile. Your wishes have been granted, these rings are the proof. They will glow when you are helping me and grow dim and dark when you don’t. Please remember to do good and fight evil, I expect great things from you. Says the dog

The girls looked down at their fingers. They feel them out of disbelief.

Holy shit. There is an actual ring on my finger. Says Stacy I don’t understand why you would chose us of all people to give your magical powers to. This is beyond all form of reason right here.

Well, I will be honest with you, as with your new power you could easily see through my lies. If any of you fail to keep your promise, I will eat you. It is sadly that simple; I just wanted to eat you, but I feel guilty if I eat innocent little girls, so instead I give you an opportunity to not be eaten. My family has been unable to do our job for centuries and our magic is largely wasted. We live as stray dogs while the world continues to be tortured by endless evil. Says the dog

We won’t let you down Mr. Dog! says Ophelia as she winks and salutes the dog.

Are you kidding me Ophelia, he just said he is going to eat us?!? Stacy shouts

No, he said he would eat us if we don’t use our magical powers to do good and fight evil, how hard can that possibly be? says Ophelia

Stacy stares at her, scared and stupefied by her stupidity

I don’t believe any of this, but the rings are real so we should probably believe the rest of it, just to be safe. How hard can it be to do some good and fight evil, especially with magical powers on top of that. says Jenna calmly, assured of her own profound insanity, detached as if in a dream

Remember what I said, girls. I will leave you be, however, I am going to rummage through some garbage, just looking at you made me hungry. Says the dog as it trots away

Thank you! We won’t forget you Wolfie! shouts Ophelia

Thank you? Really? You are thanking the dog right now? asks Stacy rightfully upset

He didn’t have to give us these rings you know. Says Ophelia

He did it because he wants to eat us. You realize that right? asks Stacy

Well, I mean, if this is real, he could have just used his magic to eat us right here couldn’t he? I think we were pretty lucky pretty when you think about it. I’m pretty sure I’m dead or dreaming right now, so I’m not particularly concerned either way. Says Jenna

Wow, ok, just ignore what happened, that’s reasonable. Besides, I don’t feel any magic, and all he did was give us some rings that look like mood rings. This is dumb, nope, I quit. Says Stacy as she tries to pull the ring off. It won’t come off. Shit.

Only I can take it off, and only when you die. Says Mr. Dog

Did you hear that? asks Stacy

Hear what? asks Jenna

You didn’t just hear that dog’s voice? Stacy asks

Nope. The two others say

Damn it. Says Stacy, holding her head, rattled by the voice, What the fuck did I just do?

Looks like you can’t quit Stacy, so stop being a sourpuss and let’s try to figure out what we should do. Says Ophelia

I don’t feel any magic either, so I am at a loss to be honest. It’s like he told us to put out a fire without giving us water. Says Jenna, disheartened

Wow, you two are so dumb. It’s common sense that we have to transform into our magical forms in order to use our magic; that’s how it always works. Says Ophelia condescendingly

How exactly would we do that? asks Stacy, clearly unentertained

Well, I’m pretty sure you just spin around and jump in the air and want it to happen. Says Ophelia, with a tone wavering between confidence and doubt

Well then, why don’t you give us a twirl, little girl? Asks Stacy, becoming increasingly sarcastic

I’d love to. Says Ophelia, playfully conceited, delighted with her enlightenment for once, as she spins around and jumps into the air, suddenly surrounded by a bright pink light, her silhouette enveloped by a flaming fox which swirls around her body to instantly reveal a cute flared red dress with a white bodice and pink accents flowing up from the skirt. Two doves fly overhead, one of which drops a red witch’s hat wrapped in a white bow on her head and the other a scepter crowned with a red jewel in the shape of a heart. She comes to the ground and poses with her leg curled like a cabaret dancer pointing her scepter towards Stacy with her hand holding the brim of her hat.

Told you so Stacy! says Ophelia as she winks and giggles

Stacy stares at her, mouth agape, speechless and bewildered

Now you try. Says Ophelia encouragingly

Jenna you go first; seeing that just broke my mind. I’m going to need a second. Says Stacy

Ok. Says Jenna timidly, So I just spin and jump or something?

You have to want it to happen. Reminds Ophelia

Ok… says Jenna, reluctantly, wanting answers more than anything else, as she spins slowly and jumps, she begins to float as a dark purple light surrounds her, her frame glowing as the air seems to rush around her body, a murder of crows fly around her body, scattering to reveal a dress nearly identical to Ophelia, however almost entirely black, with a black bodice and a black skirt, adorned with and white and purple accents, a raven flies over and drops a black witch’s hat with a purple ribbon on her head. She lands squarely and halfheartedly attempts to point her scepter at Stacy before realizing that she doesn’t have one, beginning to frantically wave her arms in search but to no avail.

You’re the last one Stacy, no more excuses. Says Ophelia

Fine. Says Stacy, as she spins around and jumps into the air. She lands and the girls are surprised that nothing happened. Stacy stood there still in her school uniform.

Come on Stacy, do it right. Remember you have to want it. Says Ophelia

I really didn’t want it at all though; I was just scared. Says Jenna, in shock

Well try being scared. Says Ophelia

Stacy spins around and jumps. Again, nothing happens. She looks at the two others, annoyed and a bit confused. Well maybe I don’t know how to do it yet, but I’ll learn later. Says Stacy

Wow Stacy, what a letdown; I really wanted to see yours, oh Miss Omniscience. Says Ophelia

Stacy rubs the back of her head Well, what do I do now? I still have this stupid ring.

You know what to do. The voice of the dog clearly echoed through Stacy’s mind.

Is that dog still here? I just heard him say something. Asks Stacy

No. I don’t see him. I didn’t hear anything anyways. Says Ophelia

So I guess he was just talking to me or something… Says Stacy

What did he say? asks Jenna

All he said was ‘You know what to do’, which is ironic because I don’t have the slightest clue even though I’m supposed to. Says Stacy

So much for the all-knowing Stacy. Giggles Ophelia

What a lame dog, he said he would give me omniscience and the only preternatural thought I’ve had so far has been the voice of that stupid dog. Says Stacy

You know what I said. The voice of the dog returns

He is not a stupid dog, he is a wonderful dog. Says Ophelia

Stacy, zoning out, thinking about what the dog had told her; the recollection of the conversation comes flowing back to her, clear as day.

I just remembered that conversation we had with the dog right now, plain as day, and it’s perfectly clear now even though I didn’t realize it at the time. He wasn’t granting us a wish in the sense I thought, he said he would give us a magical power to help do good and fight evil. I’m guessing that’s the only time my powers will activate or something because I still don’t even remember half my teachers’ names. Says Stacy, rubbing her neck and a little embarrassed

You’re just a late bloomer like always Stacy. Let’s go try to make Mr. Dog happy with our newfound power. Says Ophelia

I don’t want anybody to see me like this. I look like a total loser. Who even wears this kind of stuff? " Says Jenna, embarrassed by her outfit and silly hat

Well, magical girls, clearly, Jenna, duh. Anyways, she’s right that we wouldn’t want anybody to figure out who we really are or our lives could get super complicated. We have to have some sort of magical names to be called, but I can’t think of one. Says Ophelia

Yep. This is not Jenna, not at all. Just some weird loser that nobody knows. I know some girls wear outfits like this, but I am definitely not one of them. Says Jenna looking over her shoulders to see if anyone is staring at her

Stacy, you should use your magical brain to help give us awesome names. I’m expecting great things. Says Ophelia

Well, you had a fiery fox around you and have red hair and stuff, so you can be Blaze. Jenna you had a bunch of crows around you, and a raven, so we’ll just go with Raven. Says Stacy, enjoying her newfound authority, baselessly presuming her own infallible omniscience

Wow Stacy, I can tell you really worked hard to come up with those names. Says Blaze, sarcastically

I think they are nice, Ophelia. They are pretty accurate. Says Raven, smiling, relieved to no longer be Jenna

Fine, what is your name Stacy? Asks Blaze

Well, I didn’t transform or anything so I guess I’m still Stacy. She says

Lame, I’m going to call you Kitty. Says Blaze

You call her that anyways Ophelia… says Raven

Whatever, it’s still your magical name. says Blaze

Fine. I’ll let you have this one… Blaze… says Stacy, giggling a little bit

At least me and Jenna have cool, majestic, powerful names; you’re still just a cute little Kitty. Teases Blaze

Who is Jenna? I bet she’s a great girl. My name is Raven though. Says Raven, as she gestures with her eyes at a couple of people who were now looking at them, smirking

Right, Raven. Ok. Now that we have taken care of that we begin our real duties to help Mr. Dog. Says Blaze

Lead the way, Blaze… says Stacy still sarcastic even after the ordeal

Mama will teach her little Kitty everything she needs to know about being a magical girl. Says Blaze proudly

Raven would like to learn as well. Please and thank you. I don’t read the sorts of books you do. I don’t even know where to begin. Says Raven as the three embark from the tetherball court, following Blaze towards the crowds of the park

1.3

The warm sun beats down upon the grassy field with a pleasant breeze swaying the blades of grass. A baby in a stroller is crying softly, its mother standing beside it talking to a woman walking her small dog, smiling, laughing. Blaze approaches the woman with her companions in tow. You baby needs love! she says boldly, pointing her scepter at the woman

Jesus, I will feed the baby in a second; what is wrong with you? Says the confused woman

Can’t you hear it crying? Have you no heart? asks Blaze

I’m not deaf; Baby’s cry all the time, are you an idiot? asks the woman

Clearly. Remarks Stacy snidely from behind her

The power of love compels you! says Blaze as she waves her scepter menacingly

You have got to be kidding me. The woman sighs, picks up her baby and starts to nurse the child.

You can go away now, Ms. Love Witch. The baby is loved. Says the woman now annoyed and bewildered

Love conquers all yet again! says Blaze, profoundly satisfied with her good deed

Please go away. Says the woman

Sorry! says Raven as she drags Blaze away from the woman, Stacy chuckling behind them

You see, that’s how it’s done. Just use your powers to help people; it’s literally a walk in the park. Says Blaze

Now I leave the rest up to you. Go out in search of people you can help with your magic and you shall be fulfilled like I am. I shall search for more people in need of the miracle of love. Says Blaze proudly, with pompous noble airs

Ok… says Raven, trying to figure out whether Blaze was acting out of a dearth of mental health or mental capacity, as Blaze runs away

Well, we should really try to learn to do this. Says Raven I don’t want to let down Mr. Dog. I’m rather confident he thinks we’re idiots so it will just be easy for him to eat us.

Well, let’s just not be idiots then; it will be a trial by fire, but a change of pace could be nice. Anyways, I’m sure it will be easy for you to find somebody to help; isn’t your power just helping people? asks Stacy

Raven laughs nervously, I don’t know if it will be that easy, I still have no idea how to use magic. She says

Well, practice makes perfect. Says Stacy, more concerned with being entertained at the moment than doing anything to please Mr. Dog

That woman over at the picnic table under that overhang looks like she could use some help. She looks upset for some reason. Says Raven

I guess it’s worth a shot. Says Stacy as the girls walk over to a woman sitting alone with her head in her palms.

You look troubled. Can I help you somehow? asks Raven with timid politeness

Jesus, is it Halloween already? Why are you dressed up like a witch? asks the startled woman

Well, I am a helpful witch. I am here to help. Says Raven, weakly, looking away and at the ground, ashamed of herself, equally as confused as the woman

It’s just a headache and cramps. Where is your wand anyways, how are you going to use your magic? asks the woman sarcastically

I guess I have to use my hands Raven begins waving her hands around the woman’s body at some distance. Am I helping?

I’m just glad you’re not making it worse. Somehow you might actually be helping; maybe I’m just losing my mind. says the woman

I’ll just have to focus my power. She moves her hands closer to the woman, her actions looking similar to basketball defense

What the fuck? Why is that actually helping? Says the woman, in disbelief at even the mild sense of relief

I am glad I could help. Says Raven with a smile as she stops her waving

Don’t just fucking tease me with your Jesus hands. The woman, annoyed, as she grabs Raven’s hands and rubs them on her head and pelvis

Oh my God. I would never believe in this kind of shit but you made my day kid. Thank you. Good god. Says the woman, continuing to rub Raven’s hands on her body

Please do good things now. Says Raven, fairly intimidated by the woman’s actions but unwilling to resist the woman’s force

Ok, I’m just going to try to spend time with my kid. I do feel a lot better now, thank you. I’m sure that seems weird a shit for someone to believe you, but that placebo effect worked wonders for some reason. Says the woman, smiling, finally letting go of Raven’s hands

That is a very good thing to do. Says Raven, politely, distantly, struggling to find something to say

You are a weird little girl, but do you have like a card or something for your faith healing shit, in case I need somebody like you. Asks the woman in a playfully serious manner

Um, no It is my first day on the job, but if you ever see me don’t be afraid to ask; I live around here. Says Raven in mutual happiness

Ok, it would be hard to miss you in a crowd. Do you have a name by any chance Ms. Helpful Witch? asks the woman

J… Raven. My name is Raven. She says, a little embarrassed having almost told the woman her real name

The woman laughs It suits you. It was a pleasure to meet you. Who is your friend by the way? Is she a witch too?

Yes. Says Raven

No. says Stacy.

She is learning, hopefully she can become a real witch one day. Says Raven

Well, good luck; we could really use more people like you around here, Raven. You really are a miracle. I’ve seen this shit on TV all the time, but I never thought it was real. Says the woman

Do have a wonderful day; I hope I can help others the way I helped you. You were my first, so I am happy it went well. Says Raven

Don’t worry, you are a natural. You’ve got an amazing power and I can hardly believe it; hell, I can’t, but you should believe in it; it’s real. Says the woman

Thank you very much, you are very kind. Ta-ta. Says Raven, flattered, still embarrassed, yet somehow excited and proud or herself; she prances away grabbing Stacy’s hand

I am literally in awe right now. Says Stacy

I can’t believe it actually worked. Says Raven

It seems like you are the only one who ended up with real magic. Says Stacy

I’m sure we will all figure out how to do it; I’m just flying blind right now and I guess I got lucky; it feels so natural, like it’s an instinct. Says Raven

I hope I can find my instinct. I still don’t even know what I am supposed to do. Says Stacy

You know what to do. The voice of the dog already too familiar and too unnerving inside of Stacy’s mind, she brushes it off

Let’s try to get some more practice. Says Raven

Blaze had approached a young couple in their twenties sitting under a tree relaxing and nuzzling one another. The woman looks at Blaze and smiles wholesomely.

Well aren’t you cute? she says

Blaze is delighted Do my eyes deceive me? Are you two lovers? she asks

You are very intuitive. Says the man, humoring the girl

Please allow me to cast blessing of love upon you, so that your love will be strong forever! says Blaze excitedly

By all means, go right ahead. Says the woman, giggling

Love and love and be loved, oh lovers, love! says Blaze, remarkably serious as she spins around, points her scepter at the two, smiling as she winks at them. The gemstone at the top glows slightly, surprising even Blaze.

Wow, your toy even lights up, isn’t that neat? says the woman.

It is no toy; it allows me to kindle the fires of love in even the coldest places! I am the witch of love! says Blaze, confidently

There was already magic between us, says the man, squeezing his girl but you just helped make it stronger with your magic. Hopefully you can find more people to help. Says the man, lightheartedly playing along

I am glad I could help, but now I must be off to spread love to every corner of the earth! says Blaze proudly

Good luck! We won’t forget you! says the woman, still giggling as Blaze runs off, the man belts out the laughter he was holding back the entire time Blaze was talking to them once she is out of earshot

Raven and Stacy see a little boy sitting on the ground crying and approach him.

What’s wrong little boy? asks Raven sincerely

I lost my toy lion says the boy sniffing back tears I had him when I came here, but now I lost him.

Maybe my friend Stacy can help you. Says Raven

Stacy looks at her in shock, and shakes her head.

Well, what should we do Stacy? asks Raven

Umm, maybe use your magic? says Stacy with a twinge of sarcasm

Oh, ok, well.. Raven looks at her hands, clasps them, blindly expecting the problem to be resolved by doing so, and when she opens them a small glowing apparition reminiscent of a firefly appears.

This… fairy… will help you find your lion. Says Raven unsteadily, entirely unsure of what was happening and what to say

Wow, you really are a witch! Says the boy excitedly

Oh, yes, I am. Says Raven nervously as she smiles

The firefly floats in front of the boy and he starts to chase it eagerly.

Wow, Raven; what was that? asks Stacy, wholeheartedly impressed

I have no idea, I just thought to use my hands to help the child and that is what happened. I had no idea what to do so I just kind of clapped them and hoped something would happen. Hopefully it actually does what I said or I will feel stupid. Says Raven

The boy has already started to return, running as fast as he can holding onto his lion.

It really worked! Wow! He was under the slide and your fairy showed me where he was! Thank you so much! shouted the boy excitedly as he runs back towards the girls.

The boy comes and hugs Raven as tightly as he can, You are the best. Thank you so much! he says, tearing up slightly from his joy.

Stacy and Raven both look at each other and share a feeling of mildly pleasant disbelief. Blaze comes walking up to the girls with a proud look on her face.

The world is now all the more lovely and wonderful thanks to me, the witch of love! she says

Wow, that’s great. You really are a natural. Says Raven supportively

I hope you girls have been able to harness your true potential. Says Blaze

I actually did help a couple of people; I’m still not quite sure how, but it was definitely magical. Says Raven, proud but still embarrassed by her appearance

Yeah, Raven actually healed a sick woman and summoned a fairy to help a child find his toy… says Stacy

That’s amazing! says Blaze with wide eyes How about you Stacy, who did you help?

Stacy looked at her with a blank face. Well, I still don’t really know how to use my powers. She says

Then it’s our duty as your fellow magical girls to help you figure it out. I’m a bit tired, but we can sit down at that picnic table and brainstorm. Says Blaze

Ok. Says Stacy, smiling as they walk over to the table and sit down

Your power has to do with knowing stuff, so I bet you can just think of ways to help people.

I suppose I should try that. Says Stacy

Just close your eyes and think really hard. I’m sure it will work. Says Blaze

Stacy closes her eyes. Her face quickly contorts into look of sheer terror, her eyes open, full of fear.

Well… says Stacy I tried that and there were vivid images of lots of very terrible things happening to people, all very bad things. That was super scary. She says, her heart racing

If we are supposed to do good and fight evil then maybe your power is telling you to go stop them. Says Blaze genuinely

This was hundreds, thousands of people being assaulted, molested, beaten, murdered, and robbed. I don’t think I can stop these things. Says Stacy, nervously

Maybe you just need to practice to really learn to take advantage of your power. Try again and see if you can find something bad close to here. Says Raven

Ok… says Stacy as she closes her eyes for a second, once again stricken by the same fear Nope. Nope. Just more very bad things. A cold sweat beads on her face.

Well, it is what you wished for; I suppose Mr. Dog figured you would be able to do what he asked somehow with that power. Says Blaze, disheartened

Where there’s a will there’s a way. I’m sure you will figure it out, Stacy. Says Jenna, supportively

Ok… says Stacy, still shocked

Maybe instead of just thinking of helping everybody, focus on one person. Says Jenna

Stacy peers off into the distance, the summer sun slowly falling towards the horizon. She sees a man walking and closes her eyes. Opening them, this time confused, but not afraid.

Well I tried it on that guy over there; it was just a lot of minor inconveniences and things, nothing really bad or good. The most I could figure out is that he forgot his wife’s birthday and borrowed is co-worker’s stapler and forgot to return it. Says Stacy

That’s great. You can go remind him of his wife’s birthday! says Blaze excitedly

It was last week… says Stacy, disheartened.

What about the stapler? asks Jenna

Well, he knows he forgot to return it and will do it tomorrow. I wouldn’t really be accomplishing anything. Says Stacy

Oh well, at least you sort of know how to use your powers, which is cool. Maybe you can learn to transform too. Says Blaze

Stacy rolls her eyes.

Just use your magic on people and maybe you can find a way to help somebody. Says Raven

You will know if you’ve done a good job because your ring will glow white like mine! says Blaze as she shows her friends the ring, glowing with a very faint pink-white aura.

Oh yeah, I forgot about that. Says Raven as she shows her friends her ring, this one emitting a much stronger pure white light.

A disheartened look strikes Blaze How come yours is so much brighter than mine? She says

I don’t know. Beginner’s luck I guess. Says Raven, flattered

How about yours, Stacy? asks Blaze

Stacy shows them her hand, the variable band of the silver ring emitting a cloudy light grey color.

That’s ok. I’m sure you will get it to glow in now time. Says Raven, smiling

It’s getting late, we should head home. Says Blaze

Wait, says Stacy I don’t want to leave until I’ve done something to make my ring glow.

We could be here all night, Stacy. But it’s worth a shot. I don’t want to get in trouble though. Says Blaze, somewhat pessimistically, but supportive

I just figured out how to use my magic; I’m just going to search for the closest thing I can do.

Stacy scans the crowd of people littered throughout the park; she glances towards a woman in the distance talking on her cell phone and is slightly startled by her premonition.

I just felt something, let me try to figure it out. She says as she closes her eyes. I know what I have to do. You wait here I’ll be right back. Says Stacy, determined

We’ll come with you and help. Says Blaze

No, I have to do this by myself. Says Stacy

Ok. Says Blaze as she rolls her eyes

Stacy walks briskly over to the woman who had hung up her cell phone and began to walk away.

Ma’am! shouts Stacy Can I talk to you for a moment?

What do you want?

Please listen to me, says Stacy, nervous but with constitution, Don’t let your husband go out drinking tonight. He will crash his car, get into a fight with a police officer, go to jail, and lose his job. Please, I’m begging you; convince him to stay home tonight.

What? Do you know my husband? Who are you and why do you care? asks the woman, put off and confused

I’m sorry, I don’t know your husband, but I just had this sense, this vision, when I saw you that this would happen. The man who wants to fight him is already at the bar; if he goes to O’Leary’s tonight there is no doubt this will happen. Says Stacy

Shit, that is actually the bar my husband goes to… are you really psychic? I really want to believe you because that sounds exactly like something my husband would do; he is a hotheaded man. Says the woman, both impressed and concerned

So you believe me? asks Stacy

"Not really, but a part of me does. I have been a bit cold to him lately, and that might be something that helps set him off. The only reason I am willing to believe you is because the story is so believable, too believable. If you told me he would get a promotion or a raise I would have just laughed and walked away. Since you seem so genuinely concerned about it, I’ll try to make him stay in tonight; he has been good to me lately and deserves a little reward. That was creepy as shit though, I’ll be honest, coming up to me out of