I followed the circle for quite some time, scanning and probing the dirt for anything unusual. I wasn`t a scientist from NASA, but I could tell that there weren`t any rocks or life- forms that I hadn`t seen before.
It was getting harder to inspect in the dark, so I had decided to turn on my flashlight when I heard voices coming from the opposite side of the field. I was sure Farmer Sears had spotted me nosing around. I switched off my light, doubled back, and raced into the rows of stalks.
I was ready to hightail it out of there and call off my crop circle adventure when I glanced back to see the farmer. I caught a glimpse of white hair. I immediately ducked and poked my head between the stalks.
Jagger and two burly guys with tattoos and dressed in camouflage were examining the circle.
I didn`t move. There`s been TV coverage, Jagger said. It`s been all over the news. This is good.
I thought you wanted the club to be a secret, the taller member of his crew said.
From mortals, stupid. Not us. That`s why we`re out here making sure these stay intact, Jagger said, surveying the smashed wheat. Vampires have been using crop circles for centuries to signal other vampires about areas where there`s an Underworld presence. But mortals can`t fathom our genius, so instead they think these are being made by extraterrestrials. It`s really best for both worlds.
But we are attracting others that can make trouble for us, the shaved-headed one confessed, following behind.
No one can make trouble while I`m in charge, Jagger argued.
There are others who don`t want to follow your plan, said his burly cohort. Not everyone wants you to be in charge, Jagger.
Shocked, Jagger spun back and confronted his bald supporter. Excuse me?
It`s true, the taller one said, defending his friend. We`ve heard rumors. There are others who think the club should remain as just a club. Nothing more. We just wanted you to know.
Anyone who dares to undermine me will have to deal with not only me but a gang of bloodthirsty vampires.
Just then I saw a purple head rise behind Jagger and his cohorts. They were startled as much as I was.
I didn`t hear your bike, Jagger said, bewildered.
What are you guys doing out here? Phoenix asked.
I should be asking you that. We are expanding our club--my club. And maybe it`s time we revoke your membership.
You can`t. Can you? Phoenix challenged. I have eternal membership. I thought that`s what you wanted when you started the Dungeon.
I did, but on my terms. Now out of our way; we have work to do.
Phoenix stepped before him. We don`t need more members, Phoenix argued. It`s time you and your crew stop making these circles. There are plenty of our kind already in town. If we continue increasing our size, we increase our chances--
Of infiltrating the town? Jagger asked with a sinister smile.
Of being run out of town, Phoenix said firmly.
You don`t care about the club`s direction. All you care about is seizing control of it. And then who knows what you`ll do with it?
It`s time for a new leader when the old one has undermined his followers. You`re inviting vampires to this town for the sole purpose of taking it over.
It`s time to be part of the town. I`m tired of hiding. Now that I have a strong membership, we`ll be able to roam freely amongst the mortals. We have a right to be known, and that decision is not yours to make.
Nor is it yours, Phoenix said, his arms crossed. You created a great club--a place for vampires to hang out in secret and be ourselves, without a threat to them or us. Where both worlds could live peacefully. But you let your ego get in the way. And now you are planning on destroying the very thing you created.
I`m planning on expanding it.
Not while I`m around. Don`t you realize that you are outnumbered? And that when we get more members, you won`t stand a chance?
Jagger`s gang surrounded him.
No one appointed you, Phoenix challenged. I will take you down.