The freshmen boys of Asher College have obsessed for weeks in anticipation of Phi Lambda Phi’s annual ‘Harvest Moon Panty Raid’ but Nick Wilder has other plans. He’s got his eye on one Phi Lamb in particular and he’s not about to screw it up by being like everyone else. But plans change and so must Nick if he’s going to get the girl of his dreams.

Chapter 12

“Nick!”

Nick heard the voice but found he couldn’t move.

** SSLLAAPP **

Something hit his left cheek. “Wake up, damn you.”

He felt a pair of legs straddling his waist.“… please be okay…”

A pounding pressure struck Nick’s chest several times then moments later he felt two soft lips pressing down on his then filled his lungs with air. The process repeated several times as a tingle in his chest spread to the rest of his body.

“Mmmmmph.” Nick groaned.

“Nick?”

Nick blinked once, then again. An indistinct figure looked down on him. “Goody?”

A familiar voice repeated. “Nick?”

“Gwen?”

Gwen remained seated on Nick’s chest. “Did you call me Goody?”

“I …”‘

What you experienced in the past must remain between us. Don't make me cast a spell on your friend.’“

I…”
Nick shook his head and tried to move. Gwen pressed down on Nick’s chest, leaning forward so their faces almost touched.

“… I remember falling and then darkness.”

Gwen sighed in relief, “You scared the hell out of me. You stopped breathing.”

You were in time stasis. It is common for inexperienced witches to confuse it with death.

“I’m fine.” Nick felt his face redden as Gwen kissed his cheek.

“I’m glad.”

“You called me Goody.”

“I did?”

“Where’d you hear that name?”

Nick searched his memories. It felt like a month since he’d been in this house.. “I think Zoey mentioned it.”

Gwen smiled. “Of course. That girl can’t keep a secret.”

An uneasy silence rose as Gwen continued to straddle Nick’s body. “Is that a harvest moon?”

“Yes.” Gwen looked up. “Don’t you remember? Harvest Moon was announced on all the fliers. Are you sure you're OK?”

Nick nodded as he tried to remember. He'd spent so long in the past and his memories of this place were so fuzzy. “Yes … yes … Phi Lamb Harvest Moon Mixer … ” Thoughts of both Goody and thoughts of the party jumbled in his mind.

Nick said, “The party … it’s about witches and much, much more.”

‘Tread carefully. Some secrets remain between us.’

Gwen held out a hand to help Nick to his feet. “I'm sorry I didn't tell you earlier about the the whole witch thing.”

“It's fine.” Nick said, closing his eyes trying to bring back memories. "How long was I out?”

“I don’t know. I was working on the outside of the gazebo and when I went to check on you I saw you on the floor with a nasty bump on your forehead.”

Nick tried to stand up but his feet refused to work. “I’ve always been a klutz. I must have tripped when I entered the gazebo.”

Nothing felt familiar. How long had he lived in Goody’s body? Chores for twelve hours a day. The rest of his time was spent in church. And then the trial. Women in the Massachusetts Bay Colony had no legal standing except through their husbands or fathers. When Goody’s family left town, she had no one to stand for her.

Much in the world has changed since then.

Nick thought to himself, 'And much hasn't.' He placed on a hand on his chest. He now knew why Goody had made them so big. She'd been the same size, It was nice to feel something familiar. “I’ve spent most of my life dreaming of living inside a girl’s body. Now, I’m not so sure.”

Gwen pulled Nick close. “It’s perfectly normal to have doubts. We’ve put you through a lot tonight.”

Nick pulled Gwen tight as tears filled his eyes, “I need to apologize to you about the way I acted in class. It was creepy, it was wrong, and I’m so sorry.”

“About that…” Gwen released the hug. “… I might have cast a teensy-weensie attraction spell on you.”

“You what?” Nick stared unbelieving. “You’ve teased me all night about being a stalker.”

“I know.” Gwen said, “Right after our first class, a voice told me to make sure you came to our event. It was a voice I think you know.”

“Goody.”

Gwen nodded, “It was my job to make sure you came to our party. All I did was cast a spell to heighten your interest in the Phi Lambs.”

Nick laughed, “I almost didn’t come tonight because I was embarrassed about what happened in class on Monday.”

Gwen put her arm around Nick’s shoulder, “That would have been ironic. And bad. For both of us.”

“Why?”

Gwen said, “Because there are some things in this world you don’t want to piss off.”

Nick nodded. He remembered Goody’s anger. He’d felt it in his bones. The fact she appeared to be living in this house raised a thousand questions he knew Gwen wasn’t supposed to answer. “I wanted to talk to you in class. I couldn’t stop thinking about you.”

“I know.” Gwen said, “The other girls laughed when I told them my pick. They didn’t feel what I did when I saw you in the courtyard. They didn’t feel your strength inside. That’s when I knew.”

Nick stared at the ground. “I’m tired of the secrets. I’m tired of the lies.”

“Your torment is almost over. You’ve got one more hurdle to pass..” Gwen put her arm around Nick’s shoulder, “I’m on your side Nick. I hope you know that. Everything I’ve done is in hopes of helping you get the thing you want the most.”

Nick nodded. “What do I want the most?”

Gwen gave Nick a look of disbelief, “Now who’s lying?”

She’s got you there.

Chapter 13

Nick pulled the hem of his skirt.

“Stop doing that.”

Both Nick and Nick’s clothes were filthy after the cleaning detail in the courtyard. The shower felt nice as did changing into a new outfit.

“It’s too short.” His memories of a time when girls had to hide their beauty under layers of clothing was still fresh.

“It’s a tennis outfit.” Gwen said, as if the comment explained everything.

Thin spaghetti straps strained material meant for a girl half his size in both shoulder width and chest volume. The result left little to the imagination. The mix of cotton and lycra did little to inhibit the bounce of his step or the cold night’s effect on his nipples which pressed through the thin material.

The proportionally narrow hips of a male and his thin ass did nothing for the skirt’s lines. It was so short it required the use of the gaff to pull his offending member to places unseen.

“I look ridiculous.”

“You look amazing.”

Gwen placed her hand on Nick’s shoulder and gave his hair a toss. It’d been a half hour since he’d woken in the courtyard but Nick could tell something had changed between them. Gone was the flirty innuendo, replaced by a protective vibe of a sibling.

“My panties are showing.”

“That’s because you don’t know how a proper girl walks or sits. Do you think we pop out of the womb knowing how to cross our legs? We are taught from a young age that every move we make requires an expected mix of sexuality and chastity. Many girls' reputation has been lost by straying too far toward one or the other.”

“I understand more than you know.” Every morning Goody’s father inspected each of his children with the detail of a drill sergeant. Modesty and humility were paramount virtues and for women that meant covering every inch of skin. “I don't feel comfortable wearing clothing that shows so much.”

Gwen put her arm around Nick’s waist, pulling him close, her voice lowering to a whisper. “Don’t listen to shy Nick.”

“I’ll do my best.”

Gwen turned Nick to the mirror. “Say - I look amazing.”

Nick looked at himself. He had to admit, he did look pretty good. “I look amazing.”

“Better.” Gwen smiled and gave Nick a big hug. “Now we’ve got to go. The others have been waiting.”

She led him out the door and down the stairs, past the laundry room, and into a modern looking maze of corridors, past a workout room, a pool and a series of conference rooms.

“You’ve done great tonight, I’m really proud of how far you’ve come. I hope you remember that no matter what happens.”

Nick looked inside room after room. This house was much larger than he would ever have guessed. “This place smells earthy.”

Gwen nodded, “This is the oldest part of the Phi Lamb complex. The gazebo where you bumped your head is almost directly above us. Few are allowed to come down these halls. They were meant for people like you, especially on a night like tonight.”

In the distance, Nick could see three hooded figures under a portcullis. He whispered, “Are they waiting for us?”

Gwen shook her head. “They’re waiting for you. I wish we had more time to get you ready.” She whispered in Nick’s ear, “Remember the tenets of Asher College. They will serve you well.”

“What?”

A woman’s voice sounded in the distance. “Careful Miss . These walls carry sound quite well.”

Nick tried to remember anything about the school and tenets. During freshman orientation they taught incoming students the school’s fight song, its creed, and its alma mater but he didn’t remember anyone saying anything about tenets.The three women all wore the formal robes of Phi Lambda Phi with the hoods pulled up so Nick couldn’t see their faces. The only distinguishing feature between them was the girl on the left was several inches taller than the one in the middle. And the girl on the right was a couple inches shorter. All three spoke with one voice.

“You’re late.”

Gwen curtsied before the them, “I need time to prepare my charge for this contest. As you know, they are at a disadvantage.”

The shortest of the three answered. “Yes. We are quite aware.”

Nick could feel all three staring at him from behind their shrouds. Memories of similar stares from those at the trial caused him to step back. The cries of witch still rang in his ears.

“You have done well pledge. You are dismissed with our thanks.”

Nick turned to Gwen. “You’re leaving me?”

“SILENCE! You may speak only when addressed.”

The three voices spoke as one.Nick took another step back at their outburst finding comfort in Gwen’s steadying hand pressing against his back.

“These ladies will take care of you.” Gwen took him by both hands and squeezed them. “I have faith you will find your best path forward. I am confident the next time we meet, I will call you my sister.”

Nick wanted to say something, anything as tears came to his eyes.

Gwen pulled Nick toward her, embracing him in a tight hug and Nick hugged her back. “I want that too.”

Gwen smiled upon hearing Nick’s words but didn’t respond. She turned away and gave a slight wave before retracing her steps down the long corridor.

No one spoke as they waited for Gwen’s departure. The tallest of the three hooded ladies spoke first, ”Consider your future with care and listen when we speak. Nothing in our world is given without cost.”

The middle said, “Know that by entering this portal, there is no going back. However, if you turn around now, your body will return to normal and you will wake tomorrow with no memories of this night.”

The shortest added, “Do not underestimate the consequences. You are not alone in vying to be chosen. Moving forward means you might lose everything and everyone you know. What are you willing to risk?”

The three women spoke with one voice.

“Give us your answer.”

Nick looked at the portcullis above. The words read ‘Ex Sacrificio Unitas, Ex Unitate Potentia’.

“I wish to enter.”

The three hooded women parted. “Rise and enter, Nikki. Your destiny waits.”

Chapter 14

The cadence sounded familiar though the words were hard to make out.

Lah la lah la lah lah … lah la lah la lah

Indistinct words of a song rang in Nick’s ears as he banged into one wall and then another. The room wasn’t dark but thick choking gas made it impossible to see. The hum of Goody’s voice was impossible to ignore.

Lah la lah la lah lah … lah la lah la lah

He remembered singing with Grace and Prudence, Goody’s little sisters, along with the neighbor girls once they’d all finished evening chores. The rules were simple. One girl would stand in the middle of the others, who’d all join hands and dance around her before starting the chant.

Ashes in the barley,
Shadows on the wall,
Broomstick by the window,
Witches in the hall.
Mind the bell at sundown
Now run before she CALLS!

All hands unclasped at the word ‘CALLS’ and the dozen girls scattered until the ‘witch’ caught someone, at which point the process would start all over again. It was the village’s most popular game and girls played most nights until the town's bells did ring. It was an innocent game, or so the girls thought, never realizing the adults of the town might use it against Goody at her trial.

Was it really so bad she let the younger girls catch her in hopes of drying their tears when they couldn’t catch anyone?

Nick shouted out the rhyme.

Ashes in the barley,
Shadows on the wall,

At the first word a light appeared in the distance. He took a few steps and this time not finding any barriers blocking him, hurried his pace. He said the second verse when the light began to dim.

Broomstick by the window,
Witches in the hall.

Again the light grew bright as Nick said the words. With each word Nick sprinted even faster, not sure what would happen when he finished the third.

Mind the bell at sundown
Now run before she CALLS!

The light was close now. Nick dove as he said the word ‘CALLS!’, flying through a portal and landing on the floor nearly crashing into a table.

The voice of a 15 year old girl sounded in his ears. “Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha … nice first impression.”

When Nick rose he saw a familiar face but also different in every way as a nearly six foot blonde girl towering over him.

“Clem?”

The tall girl’s smile grew large. “Nick?”

Nick stared at Clem longer than was appropriate. His friend did the same. Clem looked like one of those Nordic warrior maidens Nick had read about in books. He struggled to find words and only two came to mind. “You look different.”

“I look different?” Clementine said, giving Nick’s body a once over, and then a second and third look. “You need to look in a mirror.”

Clem helped Nick to his feet, and that’s when he saw everyone staring. His face flushed as he turned away, finding ornate mirrors placed in all four corners of the room. In between the mirrors stood bookcases at least ten feet tall. A look towards the center of the room showed a tall support pillar, with tables and chairs lined in a circular pattern. The three hooded women he’d seen outside looked to be in deep discussion. Next to them stood a fourth person he recognized from his dreams.

“Goody?”

The spirit’s face and puritan manner of dress stood out from the others, as did her otherworldly glow. She turned and smiled at Nick for a brief moment, then pointed to a nearby mirror.

All who gain entry into my sanctum are given reprieve from their corruption.

A quick look showed six people in the room, none showing any hint of masculinity. A look down at Nick’s own chest showed the now familiar bumps complemented by wide hips, and a narrow waist.

“What the hell?”

Clem slapped Nick on the back, “This is you if you'd been born a girl. This is me.”

A quick check proved Clem’s claim, Nick knowing he should feel greater distress at the sight of a girl grabbing at her crotch in a most unladylike manner. She looked cute in her pink and blue tennis outfit, while strawberry blonde hair hung halfway down her back. The boobs on her chest looked enormous on her slighter frame while her plain looking face reminded Nick of his Mom.

“I look so … different.”

“We both do.” Clem pointed at himself in the mirror.

Nick asked, “How long have you been waiting?”

“No idea.” Clem shrugged, “Time works differently in this place. I assume you made it through Goody’s village?”

Nick nodded. “The memories are going to give me nightmares for months.”

Clem nodded back. “I think time works the same here. This place is a nexus of time and space. I’ve never seen a spell this powerful. No living being could hope to cast it.

Nick looked over at Goody. She appeared innocent as ever but hints of malfeasance emanated from all corners of the room.

Don’t assume anything - darkness is as darkness does.

Nick shook his head. “Has Goody been talking to you?”

Clem nodded, “I can’t get her to shut up. I get the impression she can only speak to one person at a time so she’s not omnipresent … lately she’s gotten real chatty.” Clem paused for a second then turned and shouted at the glimmering form on the other side of the room. “I am not being mean.”

Nick shook his head. “This is so weird… I mean like … before tonight, could you have believed magic is real?”

"It's not a surprise to me." Clem smiled. “But then I’m a Peabody.”

“What does that mean?”

Clem stared as if the name alone explained everything. Nick’s friend did look a little embarrassed by the admission. “The Peabody’s are part of the Salem triad.”

“Your entire family is witches?”

“I know you’re a normie but my family is a big deal in the witching world.” Clem said, “There’s an old saying in Salem --- ‘The Peabodys only speak to the Putnams. And the Putnams only commune with the spirits’.”

Nick stared at his friend. “Wait ... so that means you knew about Goody before we came to this party?”

Clem shrugged. “Yes.”

Nick felt his anger grow, “You let me and Gary and Stanley and Roger come to this place knowing what these girls were going to do? You should have warned us. Our friends are in the courtyard being ‘processed’.”

Clem looked taken aback, “That wasn’t possible. The witching world has a strict code of secrecy and all witches are bound to it. And by bound, I mean there’s an oath with consequences if they find out you’ve broken it. Besides, do you think anything I said would have kept Gary from coming to an event nicknamed the ‘Panty Raid?”

Nick sighed. “Probably not.”

“You should be thanking me.” Clem pointed at Nick’s chest. “I’m the one who practically carried you here. It’s clear you’ve been hiding yourself from me. I saw what happened on stage.”

“Goody did that.”

“I figured as much.” Clem shook his head. “I never sensed you had any ability but I wasn’t talking about magic.”

“I’ve always been different.” Nick couldn’t look at Clem.

“Of course.” Clem agreed. “No one gets to this room by accident. I assume you closeted yourself before coming to Asher.”

The annoyance of being questioned about this subject fueled Nick’s voice, “Are you any different? Do you expect me to believe this is the first time you’ve worn a dress or fancied yourself living inside a woman’s body?”

“Of course not.” Clem said, "As a child, my brothers and sisters scared me with nursery rhymes about Goody. My family began preparing me for tonight the day my Mom discovered I’d stolen my sister’s underwear. When my ability appeared, they sent me to the best witching academies. There was no doubt I’d attend any school other than Asher."

Nick’s anger at his friend dissipated as quickly as it rose. “My Mom never found my stash.”

“My Mom took it well … too well. I lived as a girl whenever I was home.” Clem sighed, running a hand through long blonde hair. “So to answer your question - this situation is not foreign to me at all.”

Clem appeared not to be listening and his face took a faraway look. “I’m not gossiping.” Clem nodded then turned to look at Goody.

“I understand.”

“What’s going on?”

Clem looked at Nick. “Goody wants to play a game.”

Chapter 15

The hooded figures stood alongside the 15-year-old girl dressed like a Pilgrim. The situation would seem ridiculous if Nick hadn’t lost his ability to be shocked hours ago.

“I’m not a Pilgrim.”

Goody smiled at Nick before speaking, “It has been a long night and I’m sure you both have questions you want answered.” She pointed to the bookshelves. “Your questions can be found on these walls and nowhere else.” She stared at Clem. “I’ve gone to great lengths to ensure my history is shrouded in secrecy despite the efforts of some families.”

The tallest of the hooded women stepped forward, “You have experienced Goody’s final moments but clearly her story didn’t end there. The goal of this game is to understand the rest of her story and determine the source of her power.”

The shortest of the hooded figures overturned an hourglass. “You have until the final grain of sand runs out. You can work together or apart. That is your choice.”

The library was set up chronologically with the oldest section holding books from the middle ages focused on the witch purges of medieval Europe. Next came books about groups of witches who decided to move to the New World in hopes of finding religious freedom. An entire column of books was dedicated to American witch trials era with a focus on Salem.

Nick didn’t see any book titles mentioning Purity. It was like someone had decided to erase it from history. If Nick had to guess, that someone sat on the other side of the room.

Finding information about the nuns were a different story. They had a section all to themselves with book after book with fantastical titles of these women. It didn’t seem possible to have that many books on a subject that was practically unknown outside the town of Asher.
The largest section detailed the history of the founding of the town of Asher and Asher College. The final section were books exclusively about Phi Lambda Phi.

Clem focused on the section devoted to the town of Asher, grabbing several books related to the origins of the sorority.
Nick looked up at the tall rows of books, not sure which to grab.

“Focus, Nikki. Trust your instincts.”

Nick had always loved history. It was the only class he enjoyed in high school and one of the subjects that first bonded him to Roger. The first time he saw the plaque outside the town, he’d gone to the library to find out more about the nuns, finding little more than a superficial portrait of their story and not a single article about the area before their arrival.

‘It can’t be a coincidence.’

Nick stared at the bookshelves that climbed to the ceiling, his eyes darting up and down the stacks of books. One title in particular caught his interest. A diary with the title - ‘The Women of Asher’.

The book was separated into thirteen chapters, each with a name as its heading. Nick chose to read the first of the chapters - ‘Sister Rosa Murphy’.

“June 7th 1790 - The forest seems to stretch for many miles in all directions with no signs of cultivation. We chose the tallest hill in the area as our base of operations. This spot has the advantage of a natural spring providing us with plenty of fresh water and great sight lines to help us with our search. The regrown forest has provided plenty of wood for use as temporary shelters and will be quite valuable this winter to warm our hearths.”

“

June 29th, 1790 - After several unsuccessful negotiations with nearby masons, we contracted with a man to help us procure the stone to start work on the main chamber. The masons insisted we use their men as laborers which should speed up progress but complicate other matters. We have agreed to build the structure in standard Puritan style, but we insisted on expanding both wings for the purposes of housing our members along with providing a large courtyard for those needing convalescence.”

“August 3rd, 1790 – Our dowsing party discovered remains of an old community at an intersection of two ley lines. We found the houses abandoned with valuables left untouched. Very curious. It will take weeks to document our findings and bring items of interest to our camp for further study.”

“September 24th, 1790 – We were drawn to the village just after dusk by the arcs of lightning in the woods. When we arrived we observed a ghostly visage hanging from the old gallows which disappeared just after midnight. When we returned to our camp, we found two of our masons babbling incoherently. Others masons greeted us in a most ungentlemanly state of dress. Every man remaining has made it clear they are leaving our company tomorrow.”

Goody approached, her eyes on the book as Nick read the final words.

“What do you think, Nikki?”

It was weird to see Goody up close after spending a month inside her body.

“The nuns were witches. Same as the women we met in the forest.”

Goody’s smiled, her face revealing nothing. “An interesting proposition.”

Nick noticed Clem made no secret of listening to the conversation. Nick said “The book speaks of dowsing rods and ley lines - that doesn’t sound like standard fare for the nun.”

Goody replied, “That would be out of character.”

Nick asked, “They spoke of an abandoned village.” He felt Goody’s immense pain at the mention of Purity.

Goody turned to Clem, “Have you found anything Clementine?”

“It’s common knowledge that Phi Lambda Phi was founded on this campus in 1862.” Clem held up a book. “What is not so well known is that the convent continued to administer to the locals until the start of the Civil War when they volunteered as nurses for the duration of the war. No one objected when the sorority took over the convent site.“

Clem looked at Nick before speaking, “The nuns and the sorority were witches. They’re here to keep you under control.”

“Control me?” Goody smirked, “Hardly.” A book floated off the shelf.

The tome landed on the table in front of Nick, more of a pamphlet than a book with had no illustrations or flourish of any kind. The date of publishing said the year 1710 and had a title written in red - ‘The curious case of Solomon Cotton’.

Goody explained, “The copy before you is the only one of its kind. All the others have been destroyed, the same as most of the information from this time. I’ve made sure my vault is the only place where anyone will hear details about Solomon Cotton.

The book opened up to a specific page. Nick read the words out loud:

‘Solomon Cotton was considered a moral man by all. This is to be expected of a man of the cloth, even one the gossips claimed liked women more than a married man should.”

The stories of the man’s stamina are legendary. He was known to walk a hundred miles in a week making his rounds to the countryside.
Some say a disease of the mind struck Solomon. The gossips claim his moral failings caught up with him.

Whispers started of Solomon speaking to an invisible host during his rounds. His penchant of doing so with women’s attire hidden under his clothing took several more years. The magistrate could not ignore such behavior but the man’s service to the community saved his life.
The man spent his last days as a pitiful sight, dressed in a woman’s gown and wearing a linen cap while making rounds no one wanted.”

“Some claimed he had seen the face of God. Others said he’d merely lost his mind. His conversations grew more frantic and he began speaking in a foreign sounding tongue until one day the townspeople found Solomon hanging from the gallows in the town square.”

“Solomon’s tragedy became a local legend few remembered until the next generation began to show the same weakness of mind. Neither prayer nor medicinal cures appear to have any effect and always followed the same pattern. Men hearing voices followed by a desire to wear women’s clothing. Eventually they’d begin speaking in tongues, a clear sign their end was near. Some believe a demon in the forest is behind these afflictions. Others think the source is due to foul vapors rising from the soil. People have begun to move from Purity leaving all their earthly possessions behind. If this continues, it will not be long until we will no longer have a town.”

Nick closed the pamphlet and looked at Clem. He nodded and said. “That makes sense. I think I understand.”

‘You understand nothing.’

Nick found himself falling into a waking dream. This time he watched from outside Goody’s body as she tried to keep her balance on the gallows stone. He watched as someone kicked the stone away.

Falling … falling … falling …

It seemed to take forever for Goody’s body to come to its abrupt stop. Hundreds of voices called out to him … calling him home … The need for vengeance was overwhelming as Goody’s body continued to swing.

Drip … drip … drip …

At the first drop of essence from Goody’s body, Nick felt his body fly from its resting place, thrust through the crowd towards the dark presence near the back of the proceedings.

“Do you understand now?”

Nick started to answer but Clem spoke first, “You cursed Solomon.”

Goody didn’t say a word. Nick sensed she found Clem’s answer disappointing.

Clem explained his thinking. “We have studies which show certain genetic markers yield a better chance to become your chosen. The Putnam family tends to be high in such numbers.”

Goody scoffed, “You think my power comes from DNA?”

“No.” Clem said quickly, realizing he’d made a mistake.

Goody turned to Nick, “What do you think?”

Nick shrugged, “I’m struggling with the concept of magic. I don’t pretend to know a thing about what drives your power.”

“The answer isn’t complex. Don’t overthink it.”

Nick sensed they’d both let Goody down.

Goody pointed at the hooded figures who hadn’t said a word during the entire conversation. “I need to speak to them. I will give you until the sands run out. I will be very disappointed if you don’t come up with a better answer before I return.”

Nick stared at Clem. “What do you think?”

Clem shook his head, "There's no way a 15-year-old could have cast that spell without help. I think the witches in the woods used Goody, similar to Solomon. They used her vengeance as a weapon, delving into blood magiks, using Goody as their conduit and turning her spirit into an agent of chaos.”

Nick said, “I have no idea what that means but it doesn't sound good.”

“It isn't.” Clem nodded, “I’m sure Solomon is the key somehow. The man spread his seed far and wide throughout the countryside. Imagine how many descendants the man had in Massachusetts by the time the nuns of Asher arrived.”

Nick did some quick math. “If Solomon impregnated fifty women and each following generation had five children, in a hundred years his offspring would number in the hundreds of thousands.”

Clem said, “The men of Solomon’s line are known to be prolific. Five children might be a serious undercount.”

Nick nodded, “There’d be millions today. All carrying Goody’s curse.”

Clem said, “Billions. It’s more than could ever be contained with magic. I’ve heard Goody’s ability to influence men during Harvest Moon makes her one of the most powerful entities in the world. She could literally control any man within a thousand mile if she chose to do so.”

“Damn.”

Clem added, “I’m sure you saw our classmates. Did that look normal to you?”

Nick shrugged, “Nothing has looked normal to me since I stepped into this house.” He remembered the feeling when he first stepped on campus. “Wait, does that mean you and I are cursed too?”

Clem shrugged, “Goody’s curse only works on men. We’re a special case…”

Nick opened the book of the first founders. “So that’s why someone sent nuns to ‘cleanse the land’. They were afraid of what Goody might do if they sent men.”

Clem nodded, “That’s the theory.”

Nick said, “Goddamn.”

Clem nodded. “God damned is right.”

Goody appeared out of nowhere holding an hourglass with few grains of sand remaining. “It sounds like you two are having a fun discussion but I fear you are no closer to answering my question.”

Nick asked, “What’s the question, again?”

Goody appeared annoyed, “I asked you to find the source of my power.”

Clem interrupted, “I think I know. It’s the gallows stone. You are bound to it. It is your link to this world.”

Goody gave Clem an annoyed look. So did Nick. They hadn’t discussed the gallows stone at all.

“What about you Nikki? Do you have an answer?”

Nick shrugged, “You return on the night of the Harvest Moon to punish those who’ve wronged you. You pull sexual energy from the guys who come here to fuel her magicks.”

“Incorrect, Nick.” She stared at Clem and then Nick. “Think about the thing I wanted the most in this world.”

Nick looked up to the ceiling, seeing the long at the wisps of light circling the room. Some moved in a haphazard fashion but most drew themselves into the center of the vortex where the gallows stone lay in the gazebo then dove down in a solid beam into Goody’s body, the light giving her an otherworldly appearance.

“Purity’s gallows stone isn’t a source of power.” Nick spoke each word slowly then more rapid as the idea formed. “I felt the pain of those trapped inside, unwilling to let go of their hatred at the injustice of their deaths. The beam of light isn’t a source of power. It is Goody’s prison.”

Clem’s eyes grew bright. “Yes … yes … of course. I remember the anger of the others when I fell into the stone. They wanted vengeance due to the manner of their deaths.”

Goody didn’t sound amused. “Is that your answer?”

Nick closed his eyes, trying to think back. “All in the stone were bound by their hate.” He remembered the feeling of Goody’s body swinging from above. Hundreds of innocent voices screamed for vengeance as two souls joined them. An instant later, Nick felt himself flying.

“Not all who entered the stone did so with hate in their hearts. One did not belong there.” Nick said, looking at Clem.

“Of course.” Clem nodded, “One inside the stone was too young and too innocent to know hate.”

Nick felt his confidence grew as he looked at Clem. Both seemed to read the other’s mind. They answered at the same time. “Goody’s power comes from her unborn daughter.”

As they spoke, Goody’s body lifted from the floor as power crackled through the great hall. The bright light made it impossible for Nick to watch Goody's ascension to the ceiling.

“I must go. The time of culling is at hand.”

A moment later a flash of light knocked both Nick and Clem senseless.

Chapter 16

Nick woke up with a start. Across the room Clem struggled to stand. “What’s going on?”

Clem shrugged, “I don’t know.”

“Bullshit. You’ve known about this place before we left the dorm.”

“I didn’t know about this. My sisters hid information from me.”

A dim light appeared in the ceiling as Goody floated to the floor with tether in tow. The aura about her wasn’t as bright allowing Nick to better see her haggard face and hollow eyes.

“I see you’ve woken from your naps.”

Nick couldn’t take his eyes off Goody. For him, it had only been an hour since he’d lived for a month inside her body. This did not look like the same person.

Clem asked, “What happened to you?”

Goody didn’t answer the question. “The culling is over. Only two remain.”

Nick asked, “What does that mean?”

Goody’s ghostly hand settled on Nick’s shoulder, the warmth of her energy tingled his toes. “Solomon’s progeny are drawn to this place, men most of all. The pull is strongest on the most dangerously sewn with his seed. As I cast the blood curse, only I can undo it.”

The faces of Roger, Stanley, and Gary flashed in Nick’s mind. “What did you do to our friends?”

The light surrounding Goody dimmed for a moment and she seemed lost in thought. “For years I drove anyone mad who I found tainted with the Mark of Solomon. As my powers are greatest on the night of the Harvest Moon, I waited each year before striking out like a pestilence from the Old Testament.”

Clem asked, “You drove our friends mad?”

“I have not performed such acts in a long time. It was the nuns who helped me find peace. They found me blind with rage as the lands surrounding the gallows stone lay fallow as a result of my anger. They asked me to heal not harm, and in return they promised to give me the only thing I ever wanted. They promised me a daughter.”

“A daughter?” Nick said, “How is that possible?”

“You said it yourself. My daughter is my strength. When I cast the spell on the gallows stone, her spirit joined with Solomon, driving the man insane, sending the curse down through the generations. Those strongest in her essence became afflicted in the same way as Solomon, feeling an overwhelming need to present themselves as women because, in fact, they had the soul of a woman.”

Clem nodded his understand. “We are both Goody’s children.”

Goody nodded back. “Few will remember the truth of what happened here tonight. The Phi Lambs and my chosen. The need for secrecy is part of the deal I struck with the witches of Asher as the last thing any of us need is unwanted attention. I promised to stop my annual mischief as long as they brought me candidates strong in my daughter’s seed on the night of the Harvest Moon.”

Nick looked at Clem. “We are Goody's chosen?

Clem shook his head. “Only one can become Goody’s chosen each year. The other candidates are returned to their old life and a memory charm cast so they don’t remember a thing. Isn’t that right Goody?”

“Yes.”

Nick looked at his friend, “When did you figure that out?”

Clem shrugged, “Becoming Goody’s Chosen is why I came to this school. The rest I’ve pieced together in the last hour.”

“I grow tired. I need to recharge my strength and get ready for the choosing.”

Nick’s heart sank as he looked at his friend and then to Goody. He watched as the light surrounding her body grew dimmer and dimmer until she disappeared in a flash.

The two friends sat without speaking for a long time.

Clem said, “It’s funny when you think about it, us being the last two standing.”

“I don't find it funny.”

"Think about it." Clem said, “You lived two doors down from me. What are the odds?”

“Asher College is a small school.”

Clem said, “It’s not that small. That odds would be at least one hundred to one.”

“True.”

Clem sighed. “I consider you a good friend.”

“I feel the same.”

“I’m glad to hear that.” Clem said, his eyes meeting Nick’s. Because I need you to let me win.”

“Let you win?” Nick looked in the mirror, “I can’t beat you.”

Clem nodded, sounding more confident, “I’m glad you feel that way. You’re part of our world now. Nothing can change that and the witching world is more ruthless than you can imagine. You’re going to need connections. I promise my family will protect you and make sure you Mom never has to work another day in her life.”

Nick watched remnants of magic floating around the hall, feeling the tickle as one after another entered his body. “I appreciate that. But I can’t forfeit. I don’t think Goody would like that.”

“I’m going to win. We both know it but I'd rather not take a chance.” Clem’s eyes grew dark. “I have a good memory and have unlimited resources. Do not cross me.”

Nick fell back upon seeing the change in his friend, “I’m sorry.” Nick took a deep breath. Despite the hardships, he couldn’t back out now. “I know your family is pressuring you, but I can’t drop out now.”

“Fuck you, then.” Clem spat before pausing to regain control. “You will live with that choice.”

Nick wasn’t sure how to respond. Clem was right. Nick didn't have any connections to this world. He never knew his own father and his maternal grandparents died before he was born. From the beginning it had been him and his Mom. She’d worked miracles to keep him fed and clothed but had no magical powers as far as Nick knew. She worked two jobs to stay ahead of the creditors. It would be so easy to let Clem win.

Nick closed his eyes and hugged himself tight. The problem was … nothing in his life had ever felt so right.

The short hooded figure appeared. “It’s time for the choosing.”

Chapter 17

Murmurs erupted from the crowd when Clem and Nick stepped in the shadows of the stage.

The tall hooded figure ordered, “Take your clothes off.”

Nick replied without thinking. “Why???”

The tall hooded figure replied with an annoyed tone, “I don’t see how that command needs further instruction.”

Nick sighed. The Lambs had been pushing them further and further all night. The last time Nick stood on this stage, it had taken Gwen a half an hour to convince him to stand in front of this group wearing a form fitting dress. As he stood in the shadows, he realized he hadn’t given a single thought to the short skirt and revealing top he wore. Now they wanted him to get naked?

Nick saw Clem’s top and bra already on the floor. A look in the darkened backstage mirror showed the contrast between their bodies. One fit and lean. The other … not so much of either. Even if Nick tried his best, this wouldn’t be much of a contest.

The short girl asked, “You must demonstrate complete comfort with your body to be chosen. Are you going to undress or is this going to be the shortest choosing in history?”

Nick gave the hooded figure a grim nod while consoling himself with a humorous thought. There’d be no embarrassment if he lost. He wouldn’t remember a thing.

The top pulled off easy at first, catching on both breasts, the effort pulling them up with the fabric then freed themselves with playful fall, then bouncing a few times before coming to a rest. How many nights had he dreamed of such a thing?

The skirt and panties came off next, the ease of their movement giving Nick pause. How could any man, even a cursed man, not reflect upon such a loss?

And then Nick realized was naked, standing on a stage. Clem stood nearby in parade rest position, feet slightly apart and hands behind back, assuming a relaxed posture that put both top and bottom on display for any who cared to look. A hooded figure called out before Nick had a chance to do the same.

“Contestants … to the stage.”

Clem approached the podium with steady strides and Nick attempted to do the same. A look to the crowd showed the Phi Lamb’s wearing their ceremonial robes and all had their hoods up making recognition impossible. The chairs were gone, and they all stood in four distinct groups of two lines with six in each line.

The tall hooded figure stood next to the microphone, “I know it’s been a long night for everyone, but we have one final task.”
Nick expected to hear cheers but no one made a sound.

The tall hooded figure read from an ancient looking book -

“On September 19th, 1793, after several failed attempts, the sisters of Asher successfully came to an accord with the chaotic spirit formerly known as Goody Peters.”

The tall figure stopped back allowing the second hooded figure to approach the podium and read from the ancient book -

“The sisters scoured the countryside during the summer of 1794, looking for possible candidates. Three men were chosen.”

The hooded figure stepped back allowing the shortest of the three to take her place -

“On September 9th 1794, the Sisters of Asher put each man through a series of tests and put the matter to a vote. The one chosen became a sister to all.”

As the hooded figure said the final word a brilliant light appeared at the back of the stage. Every eye in the hall turned towards Goody. Cheers rang through the crowd, for the woman at the heart of this place. She looked different than the last time Nick had seen her. Gone were the Puritan work clothes, replaced by a modern dress and a fancy hairdo that would take three hours in a salon.

Goody spoke, “Thank you for the introduction, my daughters. You may return to your proper places alongside your sisterhood.”

The three hooded figures walked off the stage, each stopping with a group, increasing the number by one, bringing each to number thirteen with the exception of one.

Goody began to speak as if giving a sermon. “As has been the case since the beginning of the year, the Phi Lambda Phi freshman pledge class is missing a member and the time has come to fill that spot. I have long watched all my children grow over the years and I’m proud of both standing before you now. It is unfortunate our agreement allows only one but I am grateful to be able to add another daughter to my flock.

Goody turned to Clem and Nick. “For your final challenge, you need to tell the assembly why you should be chosen.”

Nick continued to stare at Goody. Clem used the opportunity to speak first.

“My name is Clementine Peabody, a surname which I’m sure needs no introduction to those in this room. I have many sisters who have preceded me at this hallowed institution, one who lives among you right now. I have longed to be part of Phi Lambda Phi for most of my life. I attended Danvers Preparatory Academy, and spent my summers at magic camp. I am currently casting at level 1 though my tutors say I will be able to cast at level 2 shortly. I also lettered in three sports in high school and maintained a 3.9 grade point average…”

Clem’s voice faltered for a second. He looked in Nick’s direction for a brief second then turned away.

“I first met Nick at the beginning of the school year. I consider him a friend but he doesn’t know our world. He’s shy and passive. He’s not a good student nor has he excelled in any form of physical fitness. I’m fairly certain he’s a virgin. The truth is he didn’t want to come tonight. I literally carried him out of his dorm room. If I had not done so, another would be standing in his place…” Clem paused then added for effect, “I think the choice is obvious.”

The hall remained completely quiet as every eye in the hall turned towards Nick. Nick on the other hand, stared at his friend as tears fell from his eyes. He couldn’t dispute his friend’s words. Nothing Clem said was untrue. But to be told in front of strangers with such fervor, stirred the anger in Nick’s heart.

“My friend is right, my name is Nick Wilder. I don’t know your world. I have not gone to any fancy magic schools. I am not a good student. I am shy. I’ve never had a girlfriend, or a boyfriend for that matter. I am a virgin.” Nick laughed. “A virginal sex witch. Who has ever heard of such a thing?”

A tattering of laughs filled Nick with hope as someone called for the room to remain quiet.

I've felt lost my whole life. I’ve never fit in anywhere or with anyone. I hid in the shadows afraid to be seen. I didn’t know about Asher College until last year. I knew I belonged at this school the moment I stepped on campus but I didn’t know why.” Nick paused. “I came to Asher to run from my past. I didn’t understand the truth until I passed through your gates.

Nick fell to his knees and prostrated himself on the floor, looking through the crowd until his eyes met the hood hiding Gwen.
“I’m not sure what I want. You ladies put me through a lot tonight and my head is all jumbled. I do know I’ve spent my entire life running and tonight is the first time I wanted to stop.

I am a daughter of Goody Peters. Many who entered these halls tonight have the same claim and I am honored to be counted among the final two. As my friend said, the answer before you is obvious. Many of those who came here tonight deserve to be chosen but there can be only one. I think those in this room know which of us is worthy of that honor.”

Nick kissed the floor, then raised his head to stare into Gwen’s eyes before unleashing his final plea.

“Ex Sacrificio Unitas, Ex Unitate Potentia”

As Nick spoke the words, a flash of light knocked him senseless.