(Author's Note: Credit for this episode should go to the original author Jack deMule.)
But as Jack headed to the exit, something caught his eye.
In the center of the mall was a huge topiary. A beautiful construction of iron rods, and sphagnum moss, covered with ivy. It was a gigantic unicorn. Jack was enthralled. As he reached out to touch it, he felt his consciousness begin to disperse into every leaf. As if he was immersed in some thick, viscous, fluid, he could barely move. He tried to scream, but couldn't. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed the old man from the shop had followed him. The Wizard looked on gleefully as Jack was absorbed into the living statue.
People busy with their shopping passed all around him, but none noticed as Jack's body evaporated, leaving behind an empty pile of clothing.
The Wizard picked up the clothing. After taking the charm from a pocket, and some credit cards from Jack's wallet, he threw what remained into a trash can.
"That silly ass. He should have chosen from the album. Secretariat, or Dr. Lee Geer, weren't good enough for him?" The Wizard bristled at the thought. Then an evil grin slowly crept across his face.
He cast one last glance at the unicorn. Hmm ... Jack will be in for quite a shock when he's pulled apart this coming spring. I wonder what next year's theme will be? he thought.
