While separated from the others in the confusion, Copperfox and Lady Inkling found what seemed like graffiti on the walls--graffitti which was not obscene, but which was filled with subtle, tricky grammatical errors. Inkling explained that this was the trail a wounded Verbivore would leave while fleeing. So, since they were better equipped than the others to deal with this particular foe, they followed the trail...and found the secret lair of ALL the Verbivores!
The huge nest was lined with ripped-up dictionaries and English textbooks. In it were at least fifty of the mind-muddling monsters. As soon as they saw the two friends, they launched a furious attack, using sloppy poetry full of cliches, rhythmic inconsistencies and clashing metaphors.
Handing the magic pen back to his blue-kirtled friend so that she at least would be safe whatever happened, Copperfox tried a daring stratagem, shouting to the Verbivores: "If you think ENGLISH has a complex grammar that's easy to mix up, try RUSSIAN!" And he began reciting Russian poetry, full of declensions and perfective-imperfective distinctions with verbs.
The monsters tried to get their minds around Russian compexities....and exploded from the overload!
"That was amazing!" cried Inkling with delight, as the dust of the evil creatures settled.
"It wouldn't have worked without the power of your magic pen upholding me," replied Copperfox. Always remembering the marital status of this inexpressibly gorgeous lady, he shook hands with her at extreme arm's reach. Then they went in search of the others. / / / / / / /
Now caught up in time, with Inkling's pen put away and her Glock sidearm in hand again while I carry my battleaxe, we locate the other characters and tell them the threat of the Verbivores is eliminated.
