Ok. I apologize about the delay. I decided that the chapter that was initially going to be this one wasn't fitting. Instead that will be the next one. I will be releasing Chapter 3 in a few days since a few revisions are needed.
This chapter is a bit different from the first but is needed to set the foundation for what is to come.
This kind of first person point of view writing (on this scale) is quite new to me so any feedback would be invaluable to me. Happy reading!
Chapter 2
Sometimes there are moments in ones' life that measured in seconds, minutes, hours or days. In my case, or rather my brother's and I our destiny is decided in three weeks. We barely are able to comprehend the horrific destruction of our family when yet another shock is delivered to our already overwhelmed systems.
I suppose that at some point a person reaches a place where they become so desperate internally that something either shuts off or snaps.
Max had it easy. He couldn't understand the specifics and neither Justin nor I had the energy or will to explain to him. If someone else took the time to do so that was ok. Truth behold though, I sincerely believe that he is far happier not knowing.
The phrase 'ignorance is bliss' has far more meaning now to me than it ever did before. I cannot fear or be saddened over what I do not know. That does not mean I am ignorant of what is happening. After all I am also only beginning to realize the new pressures Justin is facing.
Being the oldest at eighteen he now has many responsibilities that no one at his age should ever be forced to contend with. Yet somehow he is able to stand firm, head held high throw it all. Regardless no one has the relationship with him that I do. I am able to see the strain. I see the growing cracks in his otherwise fearless façade.
We are all handling this difficult time in our own ways. For me this meant being there for Max and badly needed support for Justin. Rare moments appear of normality when one of us three reverts to our past. A past that isn't filled with the loss of three people we all love. This could mean Max confusing us once more beyond all comprehension and reason, or Justin and I returning to our forever cycle of sibling rivalry.
The problem for all of us is trying to find our new places in this life. We all have our own ways. I for one don't have a clue about mine. Frankly, I don't care either.
Fortunately our parents and even our uncle have solid wills in place. Justin given his age and maturity is the logical choice and he somehow is able to handle it all. I don't envy his job at all. And for once in a great long time I see no point, will or desire to torture him relentlessly without need or purpose.
For someone as nerdy and annoying I give Justin a lot of credit. I couldn't do what he is doing in a million years. That being what it is I still try to do what I can to encourage him and his efforts. So when Professor Crumbs called looking for him I told the good Professor that he was unavailable.
Of course naturally he doesn't believe me.
I can't say I blame him either. After all I don't have a spotless record when it comes to telling the truth. More to the fact I will do just about anything to save my ass no matter the cost. Or whoever happens to become embroiled in my scheme. He realizes this fact as well as my late parents.
Nonetheless I am not lying and after a brief debate he finally relents asking if he may speak to me since Justin is involved in other business. I relent.
Stupid choice since I right away I discover myself suddenly blinded as I am blinked – teleported into his private office. I stumble for a moment wide-eyed as the white fog dissipates behind my formerly unprepared eyes.
Teleporting with such little warning is not something that makes me happy and my scowl reflects that point quite clearly. Even more risky is that Max, Justin and I continue to reside with our parent's friends. Friends who quite frankly have as little knowledge of magic as I do pulling off straight A's in school or Max acting sane for a period longer than a week.
"Hello Ms. Russo." He apparently is not dissuaded by my dark expression because he continues to talk as I regain my site. "Take a seat please."
Professor Crumbs is as I remember him. Tall and thin his stature is one that is easy to forget just how imposing he may be. His most notable features, aside from the mostly bald head – lines of white along the sides – are his eyes and long snow beard. The man may be aged and not in his prime but whatever lack of physical prowess is more then compensated for his sharp mind, incredible array of knowledge and sheer audacity of wisdom.
Yup, I confirm. Nothings changed about him. I can tell because I hate being called Ms. Russo. "Please just call me Alex," I groan.
He looks at me for a moment before nodding. "As you wish. Please sit then Alex."
On my numerous encounters with him I have never been able to out think him. Meaning that almost every time I see him is due to some trick or joke gone wrong. What is why also on those occasions I have always seen him in one of his regal wizard robes. One in particular happens to be quite purple with a touch of gold around the weaving where it meets in the front middle.
Today's appearance happens to be quite similar but instead of the purple I find it to be black. The edging a soft white that further highlights the darkness of what I imagine is a rather comfortable material.
To me the design looks like it came from that place made up off a lot of islands, has lots of earthquakes and makes lots of high tech computers and cars. States and geography never were a strong point of mine so I give up trying to come up with the right name.
I'd probably keep trying to think of the answer purely to avoid whatever Professor Crumbs is going to lecture me on this time. Ah the joys of having a short attention span.
Carefully I sit down in the offered chair. Trying not to fidget I decide placing my hands on top of his spotless desk is the best way to keep my emotions under control. To be honest, while Professor Crumbs is a kind soul I've always been rather intimidated in front of him. Usually because I feel like I'm about to be turned into a whipping girl – not that there haven't been times I deserved it.
My thoughts are rapidly shattered back into reality as he places warm hands on top of mine.
"Alex. I heard about your parents." Instantly my heartbeat accelerates. "From the bottom of my heart I am sorry for what you and your brothers are going through. I want you to know that their sacrifice will not be forgotten. All three will be remembered upon Merlin's Wall."
A moment passes for me to recognize his words. I suppose it to be ironic that I once again I notice his apparel and the color is almost entirely black, that of mourning. Calmly I remain strong and do not let my gathering emotions to gain control. I've done more then enough crying already.
However, I cannot forget his words. Even I am awed by Merlin's Wall. The special memorial is reserved for those who have sacrificed everything for the sake of another's well being. For a wizard it is one of the highest honors. Although for mere mortals, those who do not possess magic, I've never heard of such an allowance. Then again I've never been much for rules so while I appreciate the thought the impact is far less then he probably wants.
"Thank you Professor Crumbs." I answer sincerely. Even though I may not fully grasp the implications I'm sure others will. Namely a certain brother O'mine named Justin.
Dumbly I look up at him still not sure why I am here. I can make out there is more he isn't telling me. "That," I pause to allow myself a chance to breathe, "isn't only why I'm here is it?"
"I'm afraid not Alex." The man never releases my hands and looks directly into my eyes.
Crap. That is never a good sign. I could always find out something was up by the way his brow wrinkled towards the bridge of his nose. Usually this only occurs when I'm up to no good.
Urgently I try to recall anything, anything that might have provoked him into making such an unplanned meeting. That is of course aside from a very obvious recent life-changing event that I'd rather not rehearse in my head again.
Coming up with nothing I am left with blanks and leave him to clue me in.
"As you are fully aware the Wizard Competition cannot be started until all three of you complete your training." He removes his hands from mine and crosses them on the desk as he speaks. Cautiously I nod not sure where he is heading with this line of conversation. "Therefore we have a conflict I'm afraid. One that must be rectified immediately."
By now I'm utterly puzzled and starting to feel the dread in the pit of my stomach rise again. I try to hide my nervousness and cross my legs to keep them from shaking violently underneath me.
"You're parents specified that in the event something should happen to them your training would continue under the guise of your appointed guardian, that being your uncle. He would have the option of continuing your education either by himself or off to one of the many fine Wizard Schools available. Since the accident and there passing into the Ether, bless their souls, this is not possible." Professor Crumbs voice is calm and steady, breaking down the facts slowly as I digest them one by one.
Somehow I find that more strenuous then if he was upfront. I feel headache coming on and I rub my forehead. "Just what are you saying Professor Crumbs?"
This time it is his turn to shift nervously, an act that does not go unnoticed by me. "Since you are without an appointed guardian that is legally knowledgably about magic then the family wizard automatically reverts to the next surviving line of kin."
I blink at him not sure at all comprehending what he is saying. "What does that mean?" My voice comes out a bit harsher then I intend but at this point I'm beyond caring.
I'm sure Professor Crumbs hears my tone change but makes no indication carries on. "Alex, what it means is that the new family wizard is your father's sister. Your Aunt Megan. You and your brothers may continue your education with her."
Immediately I'm on my feet. "WHAT?" I shout. "You CANNOT be serious?" I'm stunned. I'm outraged. The emotions I've been choking down explode and I don't care there is no way in Hell we're living with her. "She disowned her brothers years ago. She can't stand my brother's and me and YOU expect us to live with her" I spit the last sentence out with such loud vengeance that he flinches.
I'm pleased to see that the Professor is actually acting a bit panicky himself in reaction to my barrage. I'm also glad that I'm the one who is summoned and not Justin. I love my brother but there are times that he lacks the balls to get the right message across. And sometimes that is with brute harsh tones. Something I do tend to excel in if need be.
He holds up his hands defensively. "Peace Alex, Peace. I empathize with your situation-"
"You empathize with my situation? Bullshit!" I shout. "You're condemning what remains of MY family to fucking-"
"ALEX RUSSO!" The bellow is unexpected and silences my tirade immediately. "I WILL NOT allow such foul language in my office under any circumstances."
By now we are both standing toe-to-toe, eye-to-eye. Mine are filled with fire while his are unreadable, stern and imposing. Suddenly I feel very small and insignificant.
I feel a hand touch each of my shoulders. They push me gently away but our gaze never falters. The dangerous edge and harshness in his voice moments ago now turns sympatric and soothing.
"Alex. I too am not pleased with this turnout. In fact I strongly advocated against this course of action in front of the Wizarding Council but they disagreed. You must realize by now that our highest law above all is the prevention of magic being discovered by those who are not users themselves. Certain exceptions of course are made such as with your mother and father."
I slowly nod my head. Only now am I learning how truly diabolic the Wizard Competition may become.
According to the rules of wizardry only one full-fledged wizard is allowed per generation. My father won the Wizard Competition against his brother and sister but gave up his powers to his brother – Uncle Kelbo – so that he could marry our mother. She had no idea magic existed and was only allowed to find out after having children as our father began teaching us in preparation for the day we three – Max, Justin and I would have to compete ourselves.
"Alex, if you or your brothers were younger or less knowledgeable then this whole matter could be turned over to the appropriate normal authorities. But all of you, even Max, exceed what is allowed for memory replacement or removal. It is simply too dangerous for us to do so because we may take away more then your realization of magic. For example, your ability to eat, drink, or worse."
All of the information bombards my head painfully. I grip the sides of my head even harder rubbing my temples trying to soothe out all of the agony this new twist has placed upon my already terribly curved life.
"There is nothing else you can do? Really?" I know that my voice likely sounds similar to that of a child's but I don't care. I have to ask.
Professor Crumbs offers me a gaze I have never seen before from him. The face is full of emotion. It is a look that tells of grief and terrible sorrow. It is an expression that tells me that despite all his intelligence, all is wisdom there is no turning back. There is no appeal. The judgment is going to stand no matter what.
A long moment passes before he shakes his head no.
"Why?" My voice is nothing but a whisper but what more am I able to do? I'm still reeling, my stare now rooted at the floor. I feel as if all the energy has left my body. I don't have the strength to fight or yell like my mind so desperately desires.
In an act that I have never witnessed before he moves from behind his desk so that he is now in front of me.
Softly he places a hand underneath my chin so that once more our eyes meet. "Alex, you know that Wizard law overshadows that of mortal law. Our secret, the existence of magic must be preserved above all other priorities. The sole other option you have is you three could give up your powers forever. We would wipe your memories and completely replace your identities."
I gasp in shock and horror. "You… I… That is allowed?"
"Officially no. The knowledge of such spells is carefully preserved and designed so that no single person may perform the ritual. Given the extraordinary circumstances of what has transpired this option is being allowed." He matter-of-factly states.
This new information sinks into my brain as I think about all the outcomes. "What would that mean? My friends? My school?"
Another shake of his head indicates that I clearly missed a crucial piece of information. "When I mean completely replace your identities I mean that. You will not remember your friends, school, everything." He sighs deeply. "In all likelihood Alex, almost certainly you would not have your current siblings. Every memory, including that of your lost loved ones, even you being a wizard and magic is all going to change. Your current life and experiences as you know them would disappear."
I don't like what I am hearing and my curiosity turns from fear and now into rage.
"You would be reborn, same age, same look but with all different experiences. You may not even be aware of magic or a wizard." His voice stays steady but doesn't help me remain calm at all. "There is a good bit of random chance in this procedure. The only guarantee is that your life will be forever and irreplaceably altered. All three of you must consent to this ritual for it to be successful."
"No!" I don't need to hear anything else. "NO!" The thought of losing what family I have my friends, especially Harper. Tears prickle in the back of my eyes and I forcefully shove them away.
My parents flash in my mind. No. I won't run. I won't be a coward. I don't want to forget the people who gave me life and saved those of countless others. "I can't! I know my brother's won't agree to it either." I'm absolutely determined in my decision.
Surprisingly Professor Crumbs visibly relaxes and he removes his hands from my chin. His stare though ensures that I still am paying attention. "I assumed you would choose such a course of action and I am most thankful that you did."
Once more I nod my agreement. "What about Aunt Megan? Please don't send us there?"
"I thought we had this discussion before Alex. The matter is settled. I fear there is little more I am able to do or say on the subject." He says with a hint of finality.
Sad and angry already the passion ignites in my eyes once more. Unflinchingly Professor Crumbs doesn't seem to care and stands his ground. "You are sentencing me and my brothers to live in Hell." I don't care about his thoughts on language. She hates us. "You aren't dumb. Why can't you see that?"
Once more he amazes me by not taking offense to the harshness in my words or tone.
"The Council may be so inclined to not see or care about the consequences' but contrary to what you believe, I do."
"Then why?" I'm confused and still fuming. My body language shows this too. I am as tense as a piece of steel.
"Because you are you Alex." He moves over to one of the many bookshelves lining his office and selects a very specific one. With the wave of his hand it opens to a page. The book isn't really a book at all but a photo album. Unlike traditional ones non-magical ones this one plays back the event for a limited time span.
In this particular picture I see moments from Zombie Prom. An incident that happened awhile back that required some very interesting and creative thinking and lying on my part. While the juniors and seniors of the school had their official prom the freshman and sophomores had ours. Labeled anti-prom we, my best friend Harper and I devised a radically different idea and came up with a zombie theme.
In addition to the regular students attending Max accidentally mailed invites out to real zombies who decided to show up too. In the end they left after a rather exciting night ending with a dance off between the zombies and us.
"I did not choose that picture at random. This is one but many of an example the power your family and friends have." He places a reassuring hand on my shoulder as he stands next to me watching the scene unfold.
I smile in recollection. Despite the madness that accompanied that night I won't ever forget how much fun all the dysfunction and chaos created.
"I have watched you carefully Alex. I will admit that many a time passed when I was skeptical of your success or worthiness of being considered a wizard. I could not fathom why such a beautiful girl would warrant risking her future by consistently playing childish games and meaningless pranks."
Unsure where this conversation is leading I choose to remain quiet and stare at the moving images. While interesting my ears are much more focused on Professor Crumbs words.
"You are one of the most devious, conniving, scandalous and scheming individuals I have ever met Alex. You may not have the best attitude towards your educational habits. You consistently make mistakes but are ever learning. You challenge bounds. You rebel against that which you do not believe in. Most people I see with these habits I would consider a reckless menace.
"You are not "most people." While you are a constant pain in the backside to your older brother," my attention is further peaked as he purposely avoids mention of my parents. "You seldom go so far to cause harm. When you do you are capable of apology."
My heart is beating fast. I can't believe what he is saying to me. I almost feel like crying but for an entirely different reason. Speechlessly I am riveted on to every word, my attention now on the Professor not the book.
"If your Aunt is a horrible as you say you will find a way. For a long time Alex you have been trying to find a purpose, direction in life. This may provide you just such an avenue." The wisdom in his words is mirrored by the content determination on his wizened face. "Parents are a guiding force in a young person's life. To loose them at your tender age, I cannot imagine. Yet that does little to change the Journey of Life.
"Journey of Life?" Ok, maybe he has gone crazy. That is definitely a new term to me.
He nods in a very serious matter. "The Journey may be defined loosely as collection of situations that cumulatively shape who and what a person may become. What happened to you and your brothers is a terrible, terrible tragedy but life does not stop. A negative event, this is indisputable. Equally so you cannot have a negative without positives too."
"Then what is so positive about where I am standing now? Cause right now I don't see it." I close the book and place it on his desk before loosely hanging my arms by my side looking defeated.
"I cannot answer that question and even if I could I would not. That is for you to discover. Do not underestimate your own talents. The Council may have disagreed with my recommendations but I believe in you Alex Russo. Had I thought differently that aforementioned procedure likely would have been your sole option."
I look up at him in utter amazement as he turns to look at me in the face.
"You?" I stammer. To be honest I thought he was the last person on Earth to say that to me. Most encounters I have had with him end up with a scolding or worse.
"I am harsh on you to be true. Perhaps more so then the rest but inside," he points at the center of my chest. "I know you have a good heart. People underestimate you because they view you as a simple girl who causes trouble. True, you have pulled the wool over many people's eyes, mine included on numerous occasions."
Now I'm back on the defensive and about to open my mouth when he cuts me off right as I'm about to open my mouth.
"Alex Russo to scheme, to plan and carry out such deviance requires masterful thinking and foresight on a scale that I rarely see. These are not skills that may be learned. They are a gift. You either have them or you do not. Troubled waters ahead are inevitable but you are not alone. I am here, but more significantly then anything, united you and your brothers are a powerful force."
"I… umm…I… I…" I'm stunned. To hear my teacher, mentor and occasional enemy to give me praise like this I am speechless yet again. And I do the only thing I can think off. I hug Professor Crumbs tightly.
Chuckling the elderly man hugs back patting me on the back supportively for a moment before pushing me away. Once more he raises my chin so our eyes meet. For once, despite another curve in my life I feel completely at peace.
"Go forth Alex and discover your future. Find your destiny as your parents and uncle have always taught you to do. They will watch and guide you from beyond. They are still your source for pride, strength, determination and love just as much as when they were in the mortal world. They are emphatically as real and alive now as you, your brothers and I. Never ever forget, they are apart of you just as much as you; always."
Thank you again for reading. Please, please review! For those of you waiting on my other stories to update I'm working on both right now too.