NanoSteps Brainstorming 3 - And a Step to the Right

[Bob Schroeck]

I took another sip of my coffee. (I would have preferred tea,
but coffee was what was offered, and I didn't want to impose any
more than I aleady was.)  "So that's my situation, Mrs. Stevens. 
I'm hoping you or your family can help me."

"You're serious?" Darrin asked.  "You're some kind of superhero
stuck in the wrong universe?"

I nodded.  "That's the gist of it, Mr. Stevens."  I turned my
attention back to his wife.  "I'm not sure what I can offer you
or your people in exchange for your help, but if it's within my
power, it's yours."

There was a musical chime and suddenly a third person appeared on
the couch in front of me, an older woman with a shock of bright
red hair and a green robe-like gown.  Her casual lounging position 
was in distinct contrast to the Stevens' more formal postures. 
"Don't be silly, young man," she said dismissively.  "That won't
be necessary."  Her voice was surprisingly high and girlish.

I leapt to my feet and bowed to her.  "Lady Endora," I said as I
hit the low point.  "Thank you for your time."

"What are you bowing to *her* for?" Darrin demanded as I stood up
straight again. 

I shot him a Look.  "You may get family privileges, Mr. Stevens,
but I don't.  And when facing a being of godlike power, it never
hurts to be respectful.  *Especially* if you're asking for a
favor."

"Pish-tosh."  Endora gestured broadly.  "God*like*, but hardly
gods, despite the occasional misguided cult. And even if you were
as rude as Durwood here, you would be in no danger -- we can see
the Marks left on you by the Ones who favor you.  We're not so
foolish as to offend those who are to us in power as we are to
the mortals."

"Someone who can make *her* behave?" Darrin snarked, sotto voce,
to his wife.  "I want to meet them."

"Have I turned you into anything recently?" Endora asked as she
sent a half-lidded glare in his direction.

Spoiler

Bewitched