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The Society of Jacks, A Cozy Urban Fantasy Adventure
Claudia and the Christmas Cowl Epilogue

Claudia and the Christmas Cowl Epilogue

Days later, Maguire and I were somewhere much warmer, bunking in one of the many Society hideouts that I had access to. Most of the days had been filled with study, but I encouraged him to go out and explore whenever he so desired. Once he was convinced this wasn’t a test, he did so with great enthusiasm.

It was during one of his excursions that I made my way into one of the many secret rooms hidden in that place. In that room was a mural of a young boy in the middle of jumping over a candle, which was a real candle nestled into a divot in the wall. Reaching forward, I lit the candle, then waited for the magic to take hold.

So, how did your Christmas caper go? The familiar voice echoed in my ear, where only I could hear.

“It went as well as could be expected. I was worried that I would have to betray their trust, but they let me into the vault willingly when I told them that the trickster was after something within."

How lucky were you that a trickster decided now of all times to make a move on such a powerful place.

“Lucky indeed,” I scoffed. “Next time you want to use one of my pets as part of a ruse, please ask first. It’s going to take me forever to regain their trust and I think it drew some extra attention. No way it could have pulled all of that off on its own.”

I am sure they will understand why it was necessary. As will you. And you are correct, it did draw in some unexpected attention. You will need to pay close attention next year, in case this new entity strikes again. Now, were you able to find what you were looking for?

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“Yes. I found the book of stricken names in the archives and managed to copy the names. When I was in the vault, I was able to cross-reference to take a few names off the list. It’s not much, but it's a lead.”

I have seen you do much more with much less. I also see you came back with a friend.

“Yes, I did. He shows much promise, and I believe he will make a wonderful Jack. Plus, you and I both know I can’t do this on my own, even with you helping me.”

It was a good choice, and I look forward to seeing what kind of Jack he becomes. One Jack is powerful. Two can really turn the tide.

“And hopefully it won’t be much longer before we have many, many more.”

You are on the right path to find them, that I can see. That, I can see. You know what to do.

“Follow the trail and follow my gut, and always take things one step at a time.”

One step at a time.

“When can I tell him?”

In the new year it would be wise. Give both of you some time to adjust to the new normal and figure out your next steps.

“Very well. I will tell him as the clock strikes midnight.”

When the Jack said nothing else, I leaned forward and snuffed the candle. The Jack in the mural winked at me as I leaped over the door frame, just in time to dodge the flames. Not quite a candle stick, but it fit his humor.

Then I went upstairs to think through how exactly I was going to explain the situation to Maguire. It had been months since I had another Jack to talk to, but I agreed that it was best to give him time before telling him how all the others had disappeared.

Maybe a second set of hands would help me untangle the mystery.

Only time would tell.