She shook her head in resignation and went back to the bar.

“If it is Leila, then how is she getting to us?” Wyrdrune asked.

“We’re not faced with an ordinary adept, ” said Merlin. “We’ve

used our powers against her before. If she’s survived, as seems very

likely, she’s become sensitized to us. I should have thought of that

myself. I fear I’m starting to manifest Billy’s slovenly habits.”

“Ey! You don’t like it, you can bloody well leave, y’know!”

“Is there some problem here?” said Morticia, coming back with

the second pitcher.

“No problem, my dear, everything’s just fine, ” said Makepeace.

She glanced at Billy dubiously. “This isn’t one of your punk bars,

kid. Don’t go getting rowdy in here.”

“Sure thing, Mum. Give us a kiss.”

“Billy… ” Wyrdrune said, shaking his head.

Morticia leaned down suddenly and planted her mouth right on

Billy’s, her hand cupping the back of his head. After about ten

seconds, she straightened up and smiled. “Now you behave yourself,

okay?”

She moved away.

Billy simply sat there, stunned, his eyes glazed, his jaw hanging

open.

“Billy?” Wyrdrune said.

No answer.

“Professor? Merlin?”

He passed his hand in front of his eyes. Nothing.

Wyrdrune gave a low whistle.

Makepeace chuckled. “Morticia’s a bit of a spellbinder herself, ”

he said. He poured a glass for Wyrdrune. “Drink up, Melvin. This

could take a while.”

CHAPTER Three