The Black Heart Crypt

“They’re on the second floor,” said Malik, who was still perched at the top of the spiral staircase, counting boot clicks while Zack rummaged through Aunt Ginny’s bag.

“Okay. I think I’ve got everything we need.” He jammed the signal mirror and party horn into his back pockets. Wadded up the exorcism words into a paper ball. “Malik?”

“Yeah?”

“You’re gonna be our powder man.”

“Huh?”

Zack handed Malik a glass jar. “Extract of Newt Eye & Cow Hoof” was scribbled on its lid.

“Wait for your cue, then sidearm the whole jar at him.” Zack unscrewed the cap.

“The powder will fly out.”

“That’s the idea. Stand over there. Near those gears. Zip? You stick with me.”

The thunk of the boots became louder. Jack and Azalea were coming closer.

“Zack?” said Malik.

“Yeah?”

“What exactly are we doing here?”

Zack smiled and shot Malik a wink. “We’re about to become amateur herbologists.”