The two growths on either side of Francisco's identical dragon-like heads continued to develop and formed into two additional heads as he had indicated. All four heads stared hungrily at the brothers. "Now, where was I?" the four said in concert, appearing to be of one consciousness. Saliva splattered on the floor, dripping from all of the creature's mouths.
Neither brother had fully grasped the transformation the creature had forced upon them. Nevertheless, Ric and Josh in a disjointed fashion pushed their hands and feet against the basement floor, attempting to flee. Their single body was dragged along the floor until their back pressed against the wall. Fear was etched on both of their faces as they stared at the monster. Josh, using his one hand, tried to clutch his brother's shoulder for comfort. Rick did the same, grabbing his younger brother's shoulder. "Please... " Ric begged, tears flowing out of his eyes. "Please... Mr. Mendes... Don't do this."
The sudden use of its name caused the creature to pause. The four heads gazed at each other, appearing confused. "What-am-I-doing?" Each head said one word, not in the same harmony as before. "What am I doing?" the heads repeated in concert. The creature that used to be Mr. Mendez looked at the brothers clutching each other and cowering in fear. "I am sorry boys. I need to go. Before I do something." Suddenly, the four-headed creature, still holding the book of spells, sprinted for the stairs. It crawled through the debris and disappeared into the house. Soon after, screams pierced the basement walls. The dragon-like monster that was Mr. Mendes must have fled outside. The noises became fainter, indicating that the monster was getting further away.
Silence fell. The brothers continued to hold onto each other, but the pounding of their one heart slowed since the danger had passed. After a few more minutes elapsed, Ric released his death grip on his brother's shoulder. He then used his one hand to gently remove Josh's hand. They continued to sit in silence for some time, each within their own mind. Now that he and Josh were safe, Ric was beginning to process what the creature had done to them, in an attempt to make them an easier to catch snack. He held his breathe but still felt his chest rise and fall with each breathe Josh took. He stared at the two legs, outstretched in front of him. Each foot wore a different shoe, highlighting the fact that the left leg was his brother's. The whole left side of the body he shared was Josh's. Ric realized that he had no sensation, no control over it. "We need to find the book." Ric finally said out loud.