their skepticism. “There are certain writings, ancient writings,

known only to a very few, that make mention of an immortal race

known as the Old Ones. They were said to be powerful

necromancers who ruled the world when it was young, making

humans serve them. But, according to the legend, they warred

amongst themselves and their power destroyed them. The few

survivors scattered, to hide amongst the humans and to prey on

them as vampires and shapechangers, practicing their witchcraft

and summoning up demons___I had always believed it was an

ancient legend from which many other myths had been derived, but

now I see that it was based in fact.”

“So you actually believe that we’re faced with one of these

creatures, Sensei?” asked Akiro.

“Lt. Fugisawa appears to be convinced. And the evidence here is

overpowering. The trace emanations in this place indicate enormous

power, far greater than my own, and if we are to discount the

bearers of the runestones, I am one of the three most powerful

adepts on earth.”

“Four, ” said Fugisawa, correcting him. “Ambrosius still lives.”

Yohaku stared at him with astonishment. “Merlin is alive? You

have seen him?”

“And spoken with him, ” Fugisawa said. “But you would not

recognize him now. He is… much changed.”

He explained about the possession of Billy Slade.

“Amazing. Do you know where he is? Can you take me to him?”

asked Yohaku, his old eyes dancing with excitement.

“At this moment he and the others are all at my apartment, ”

Fugisawa said. “I had hoped to take Inspector Katayama there to

discuss this with them, but under the circumstances, I think it

would be best if we were all to go.”

“What should we do about this place?” asked Akiro.

“For now, I think it would be best if it were to remain sealed and

warded, ” Yohaku said. “Lt. Fugisawa is absolutely right. If news of

this were to get out, it would cause a worldwide panic. And I think

it would be best if this knowledge were to go no further than the