If you are still reading this, you are amazing and spectacular, and just incredibly patient to the point of virtue. Thank you. I'm sure you all just wanna go straight into the story, but I just want to say that I'm gonna try to get Chp 10 out by May, so if you desire to continue along, thank you.
Oh... and I haven't decided about the ending... of this chapter... so let me know if you like it, or if you are against it, I think you'll know what I mean when you get there...
Many thanks and hearts,
-gladsss
PS: yes this was supposed to be my valentines day chapter. I am like almost two months behind my writing *facepalm*
Chapter 9:
Robin was returning from the Merryweather Manor. His step was light, his scarf seemed to merrily flutter with the breeze, and his hands were snugged comfortably within his pockets to keep the frigid night air from numbing fingers.
"Where were you? We've been looking all over for you."
Robin looked up. Richard was by the gates, ready to mount a saddled horse. Robin shrugged and responded, "Just took a walk."
"Huh, is that so?" Richard moved to stand in front of Robin with his arms crossed. "Henry said you spent all morning collecting our old clothes. Then you left to the forest lugging a trunk. Didn't happen to stumble upon the Merryweather Manor, did you?"
The corners of Robin's mouth twitched.
"Perhaps," was his only response, but Richard didn't miss Robin's sly grin.
"You rogue, you've gone out and kissed her again, haven't you?" Richard wrapped his arm around Robin's head and brought him in, almost knocking off his bowler hat.
Robin laughed and pushed Richard away. "No, no, I didn't. I was only there to make peace with her uncle and resume our fighting lessons." Robin readjusted his hat back on his head.
Richard was watching Robin with a brow raised in suspicion. "You don't think I'm daft enough to believe that nonsense?"
"It's true, I swear on my life. Today, I, Robin De Noir did not kiss Maria Merryweather—" Robin threw his hands up in resignation "—I kissed her last night."
Richard laughed and knocked into Robin's shoulder.
"Well aren't you two the merry fools," Henry remarked coming upon his friends. He was on his horse and looked both weary and annoyed. "You better have a good reason for disappearing. David and I missed dinner looking for you."
Robin sheepishly smiled and averted his eyes. Richard was about to answer when Henry raised his hand to the air and said "save it" as he continued to ride past them. He wasn't in the mood to listen to them.
"Oy Henry! Where's David?" Robin called out behind them.
"He went home, did you expect him to be waiting all night for you? Also, your father needs you. He wants to finalize our plan before leaving."
Robin blew out a puff of air. His father could wait some more. After reassuring his friends he'd meet them in the dining hall, Robin turned and headed towards the castle grounds.
He approached the small cottage and stopped just before reaching its door. David did a good job with it. Unlike the black castle stone, the cottage stood out amongst the green with its brown and cream-colored cob-stone walls. It was quaint little home, more welcoming than the castle could ever dream to be. He raised his fist to knock and hesitated. They were still not on speaking terms. Would he want to see him? Robin considered turning back but remembered Richard's words. He owed David and apology. If David wasn't ready to accept it, well, he had every right. Gritting his teeth, Robin tapped the door lightly. He didn't have to wait long before Cecile swung it open.
Her eyes widened. She brought her night robes closer to herself as she bent down in a curtsy.
"Master Robin! what brings you here?"
"Please Cecile, we've talked about this, don't call me that. Is David here?"
"Oh—erm yes, please excuse me, Mas—er Robin. He's right inside, come on in."
Robin politely shook his head. "It's well past visiting hours and I don't want to bother. I'll be quick, could you please ask him to come outside?"
With another quick curtesy, Cecile left to bring her brother.
"What are you doing here?" David asked. He paid no attention to Cecille scowling at his attitude.
"Can I️ talk to you?"
David scrutinized him. After a few seconds, he closed the door behind him and leaned against it, motioning for Robin to continue.
"David, erm—" Robin paused. He was beginning to feel nervous. He sat on the door step and looked out into the forest. "I came here to say…I️ want to say—what I mean is that I'm sorry for the things I️ said."
David shrugged, his eyes downcast. "Doesn't matter, it's true anyways—"
"No!" Robin interrupted him, turning around to face David. "You did exactly what a friend should do! You defended Maria and tried to talk some sense to me. I️ was an arse. I️'ve been an arse. I know how much you like Cat and I️ was angry. I️ wanted to piss you and everyone off."
"Well you sure did a good job at that," David muttered.
Robin sighed, "I know. I didn't trust the lot of you."
"Things would've been easier if you tried listening to us from the beginning."
"It was too much, too unbelievable." He didn't know what else to say. Robin looked back to the forest, wishing its darkness could envelope him.
"Trust me I know." David sat down beside him. "I was against Maria at the beginning. None of you listened to me, told me I was off my rocker. I'm sure you avoided talking about her around me. It only made things worst. I was sure she brainwashed the lot of you."
Robin grimaced, a spark of recollection hinted at those fights he had with David years ago.
"Have I always been such a arse?"
David laughed. "No, not an arse. Just a stubborn git, and it went both ways if you ask me. Once I got to know her, realized she wasn't half bad at all."
"I'm sorry. I regret what I said. I meant none of it. If it's any consolation, you missed the bloody good slap Cat gave me."
"She struck you?"
"…yeah didn't hold back either." Robin laughed. "Teach her how to throw a punch and she'll knock out all your offenders."
David smiled fondly thinking of Cat.
"You're my mate," Robin continued. "I️ know for a fact throughout our friendship you've never been afraid to keep me a check. I'm sorry for not trusting you, or any of the others."
"Three times..."
"What?" Robin asked confused.
"Three times the great Robin De Noir has apologized. What a day, my sister won't believe it."
"Really?" Robin asked incredulously. David simply shrugged his shoulders, earning a laugh from his friend.
"Maria, did Robin really give you his clothes?" Cat asked. She was standing in front of the mirror inspecting herself. She stuck out her leg and bent at the waist. She touched the floor and then swung herself up to the sky, stretching her arms outwards. She sighed contently.
"Yes, I'll make sure to thank him on your behalf next time I see him. You seem to be enjoying yourself."
Cat looked over her shoulder and tossed Maria a wink. "It's not every day you have such freedom of movement." Cat turned back to the mirror and twirled in front of it. "When will you see him again?"
Maria shook her head, "Not anytime soon, doubt I'll hear a word from him though. We never had a chance to establish a written correspondence. His birthday is approaching, he will be 21."
"Same age as Henry," Lizzy observed. "You should write him a letter."
"Yes you must!" Cat chimed. "Especially if you'll thank him for our clothes on Lizzy's and my behalf." Turning back to the mirror, Cat continued inspecting herself. "This leather makes me feel like a pirate! I'll be called the 'Black-leathered Cat, Terror of Men's hearts and Queen of the sea!' Has a great ring to it, don't you think?"
"Cat, the only terrifying thing about you is your morning hair and talkative tongue," Lizzy teased.
Cat patted down her Auburn curls and stuck out her tongue. "I'd bring more terror than you. What would you do to a pirate? Read them to death?"
Maria snickered at Lizzy's stunned reaction.
"Cat, I believe you are mistaken." Maria now joined in the taunting, "Lizzy wouldn't be a lone pirate. With Henry at her side, his deadpanned stare would frighten even the most hardened of pirates."
Though Lizzy's cheeks turned pink, she smiled impishly, "Now, that's where you are wrong Maria. No one scares people more than Robin. His broodiness is enough to suck all joy and hope from our hearts."
Maria rolled her eyes and shook his head. "He can't help it, he's had a troubled life."
"Oh darling, they've all had," Cat called over her shoulder.
"Wait, Cat—did you pay attention? This is the second mention of Robin without an insult to his name. In fact, it practically sounds like Maria's defending him! Did something happen over the holidays to cause this shift in her heart?"
Maria felt her face grow warm under the inspection of her friends. She vehemently shook her head in denial.
"Hmm…. I seem to recall Maria said she would attempt to break his curse this winter," Cat mused as she walked towards Maria with one hand on her hip and the other tapping her chin. She belly-flopped on her bed and rested her chin between her clasped hands.
"And yet," Lizzy began to add, "she has failed to mention of any occurrences with Robin. Cat, what could explain the sudden change from his cold demeanor, to one who cares enough to give us his old clothes? I believe there is something Maria's not telling us."
"Oh, hush. You girls are my best friends, I tell you everything."
"Then please, dearest friend Maria, the savior of Moonacre Valley, holder of magical pearls she once casually forgot to mention for three years; please tell us why your cheeks are red and you are fidgeting on your toes," Cat taunted.
Maria huffed. "Well, you girls will be disappointed to know that Cat's idea did no more than infuriate that birdboy! He chased me all throughout the mansion! And with my dress it was impossible to run away— which reminds me, presents from Loveday! Jane's been sent hers through the mail."
Maria tactfully dodged their interrogation as she brought out a pink box for Cat and a purple one for Lizzy. The girls excitedly opened them. Maria groaned when she saw that each of the girls received a high collared blouse to go with a matching gown. Im going to have a word with Loveday.
Maria's return to London from the holidays was no different than the previous years. Well, aside from Maria's growing desire to return home for the Easter Holiday. She couldn't go a day without thinking of him. And though she tried to remain proper, to restrict her thoughts, she couldn't. On the contrary, her own restrictions seemed to bring about Robin. The more she thought about Robin, the more his kisses came to mind. Soon, Maria came to believe her three-year rift with Robin was a blessing. At least while they were fighting she didn't have to be reminded so frequently of how much she missed him.
It was during one late January night, that she decided to write him a letter. His birthday was in a few days, and she did need to respond to Loveday's and Mrs. Heliotrope's letters. When the girls began to tease her, Maria defended herself, coming up with all sorts of excuses for why this was nothing more than a cordial letter between two friends.
Much like before, the girls carried on with their busy schedules. Cat and Lizzy continued sharing responsibilities over guiding the younger girls, and Maria was now teaching once a week. She still wasn't sure why she was made an instructor, and she didn't like working with Charlotte, but at least the two were now cordial with one another.
Aside from teaching, Maria's tasks varied. Even though she was not supposed to leave school according to her uncle's orders, Mrs. Watson sometimes sent her along with an unoccupied teacher to run errands in the city. One afternoon when all the teachers were busy, Mrs. Watson sent Maria to pick up the postage with her friends.
The weather was warming, and the air no longer stung their cheeks. The girls were merrily strolling along the street when Lizzy came to an abrupt stop. It was so sudden, her intertwined arms pulled on Cat's and Maria's, almost toppling them over. She loosened herself and ran to the newsstand.
Freshly printed newsprint was laid all across the stand. A headline in large black letters read 'MURDERS ON THE RISE, SUSPECT STILL UNKNOWN.'
Lizzy paid for the paper and burrowed her eyes into the print. She scanned the lines of ink and ignored questions from her friends. It wasn't long before Cat's impatience got the best of her. She grabbed her sister's hands and forced her to lower the newspaper from her face.
"Lizzy what has gotten into you? What is the matter?"
"Don't you see? People have been murdered! Their bodies torn apart! All across England and France!" She pointed to the illustrated map on the front cover. It was dotted where bodies had been found. "Don't you see the implications?"
"What implications?" Maria asked now sounding frustrated as well. She could not guess Lizzy's thoughts.
Lizzy's mouth fell open. She remembered that neither Maria or Cat knew of Althea's escape. Henry made her promise not to tell. Her mouth opened and closed, struggling to find a response.
"Those—it's just— poor victims! Imagine what their families are going through!"
"That is dreadful," Maria conceded.
Cat narrowed her eyes. She couldn't help but wonder if this was related to her secret outings at night. In fact, now that she thought of it, they must be related. It may also explain why the De Noir gang was following the girls to Bristol. Was there someone else after Maria? Perhaps Michael and John, Charles' friends seeking revenge. Maria seemed to know as much as she did, but would Jane know more? Cat decided she would write to Jane that very night and confess her thoughts.
"Cat, are you coming along?"
"Yes, yes, of course." Cat hurried and linked her arms back between her sister and friend.
...oOo...
Dearest Cat,
Thank you for your letter, it feels as though it's been ages since I last saw you. Oh if you only understood how much I missed you all! My brothers' teasing has been relentless. My younger brothers continue to hide my things and, even worst, my older brothers seem to think I have feelings for Richard, can you believe that? It's not my fault I haven't found any of the courters my parents present to my fancy. They are all dull fools.
After my visit to Moonacre, I just can't seem to find a suitor with a heart for adventure. If only my parents understood. My mother continues to remind me that I'm 20 and if I don't act fast, I'll end up a bitter spinster. I don't believe that, do you? If Loveday could marry late, why can't I? Perhaps I'll join Lizzy in the academic life… though from what you write, it seems a bachelorette life of study won't be one for her. Do you really think she's meeting Henry in secret? That's just simply not like her!
You must forgive me though Cat, I just can't do what you ask of me. Though I am as curious as you, I can't write to Richard. Not only is it improper for a young lady to write to a man she can barely call an acquaintance, but just imagine what Richard would think? Oh, it just boils my blood thinking of it! No doubt it would fuel his arrogance. Even worst, he may go about parading my letter for all to see. I would be so ashamed. What if you write to David instead? You two have definitely gotten closer and I'm sure he'd respect your privacy, definitely more than Richard would.
I truly am sorry Cat, I hope you'll understand. Until then, I eagerly anticipate your letter.
Your friend,
Jane Williams
Jane set her pen down and bit her lip. She looked off to the side where there laid scattered pieces of crumpled paper. Various greetings and introductions were scratched and scribbled off. She was almost out of ink.
...Richard...
...Dear Ricard...
...Hello Richard, I hope you understand that my letter stems from nothing more than a desire to help my friend. Cat has a few suspicious she would like you to confirm or deny…
Jane knew she had to dispose of these before her brothers could get a hand on them. Jane groaned thinking of how much worst their teasing would be. It didn't help her own mother found Richard charming.
Jane sighed and rested her chin on her hand. She couldn't do it. She couldn't write to Richard. She couldn't bear the thought of Richard thinking she sought him. He would never let it down. Richard would need to write to her first. Jane scoffed, as if he ever would. She was nothing more than a short-term infatuation for him. She hoped Cat would understand.
"Miss Maria!"
"Yes, Mrs. Watson?"
"The Postman has once again failed to deliver the post. No doubt he's been too busy delivering letters for St. Valentine's Day." Mrs. Watson scoffed, indignant that such a holiday would detain her from her business. "I am expecting plans regarding the Spring Ball. I need you to retrieve them."
"I would love too, but I teach in an hour."
"I'll have Charlotte teach your class today. Take the Thomas sisters with you, I believe the rest of the teachers are preoccupied."
Maria dropped a polite curtsy and rushed to her room.
"Where's Lizzy?" She asked Cat who was on her bed writing a letter.
"She's tutoring, she won't be back until supper."
"That's unfortunate, I'm heading to the postage to pick up the mail, can you come with me?"
Cat eagerly agreed and soon the girls found themselves at the post office with a very confused clerk.
"I'm sorry miss," the Clerk said wiping his brow with his handkerchief. No doubt exhausted from the busy day dealing with disgruntled lovers. "The postage was sent out a few hours ago as always. We have nothing."
"That can't be right, are you sure there are no letters in the back."
The clerk raised his hands in defeat and shook his head. He was already dreading having the same conversation with the long line of customers behind Maria.
"Very well, thank you, sir, I'll let my headmistress know."
Cat and Maria stepped out, reluctant to go back to school. "How upset do you think she'll be?"
Cat shrugged her shoulders and sighed, "I think we'll live, though the clerk may be in for an earful next time she's back in town."
They began their walk back to school when a familiar figure called out to them, "Good day ladies, looking for these?"
Bast stood leaning against a pole. He wore a smug smile and held up a stack of letters.
"Bast how dare you! Poor Maria's been worried sick she'll have to feel your mother's scorn!"
"Ahh don't worry about my dear old mum. Besides—" Bast said hopping down onto the road and walking towards the girls. "We have more pressing matters to discuss." A large grin decorated his freckled face as he intertwined his arms between the two young ladies.
"What do you mean?" Maria asked.
"I am on an important mission!" Bast pulled the girls, leading them down the street.
"What luck you brought Cat as well. Here I thought I'd be forced off to the side all by myself. And on such a day as this!"
Cat looked around. Couples walked past them arm-in-arm. Her cheeks grew pink from Bast's compliment. "Bast, though I appreciate your compliment, what do you mean? We need to return to school. Maria has her lessons and I have to check on my second years."
"Didn't you say you and Lizzy worked together on that? She's a bright girl, let her take care of them." Before the girls could further protest, Bast pulled them along until they landed at a café in the heart of London.
"What are we doing here, Bast?"
Bast simply tossed them a sly smile and strolled to the hostess. He whispered something in her ear, pointing at Cat. The hostess eagerly nodded, and the girls were ushered inside.
Out by a large open window facing the park was a nicely decorated table and a seated person.
"William?" Maria asked with disbelief.
He promptly stood up and bowed to her, "good day Maria, looking as beautiful as ever."
Maria silenced her giggle but could not stop smiling at seeing her friend. She walked over and gave him a hug.
"Goodness, what's all this about?" Maria asked as she sat beside William. Cat was seated next to Bast.
"I wasn't able to see you before your trip to Bristol, and well today is St. Valentine's—"
"Oh, this isn't necessary William!" Maria interjected. "Your friendship is more than enough!"
"Please, with how little I see you it's the least I can do to show you how much you mean to me."
A small gasped escaped Cat followed by a chuckle from Bast. Maria blushed red. She wanted to respond, but she didn't know what to say. Not knowing what to do, she forced an embarrassed smile and averted her eyes.
"What a sweet gesture William," Cat said, coming to Maria's rescue. "but we will be in trouble with Mrs. Watson if she notices we're gone. Maria could even be expelled!"
"Don't worry about my mother, I've arranged a busy day for her," Bast answered.
Cat raised her brow in question. Bast took out his pocket watch and checked the time, "in about… 5 minutes, she should receive a visit from a couple of very persistent builders. I may have let slip she's considering making new additions to the school's dormitories. Enrollment has increased at Porter's."
"Bast, just how many tricks do you have up your sleeves? Here I thought you were the nice one of the lot."
Bast shrugged his shoulders, "I may have learned a thing from the De Noirs. Which by the way, Maria how's Robin?"
Maria felt William tensed beside her.
"He's—he's doing well. We um spoke for the first time. He was very cordial. It seems he's grown to trust us since Bristol."
"Hmph—about time," Cat muttered under her breath as she rolled her eyes.
Despite growing worried Mrs. Watson would catch on to their absence, the girls' managed to enjoy their impromptu lunch with William and Bast. They learned each went home to their families. William's family obtained a new ship to replace the one wrecked by Althea. Bast went to France to visit his grandparents. In turn, the girls told them of their own trip to Bristol to visit Jane.
Cat struggled to hold her laughter as she observed William grow tenser with every mention of Robin. She knew Maria was doing her best to remain strictly platonic, but she was sure, now more than ever, that William had other intentions behind his friendship with Maria. That wasn't the only curious observation Cat noted. From the corner of her eye, she caught Bast studying her as she spoke of David. Cat was so caught off guard, she stumbled over her words, something she'd never done before.
Meanwhile, Maria was kept preoccupied with trying to keep a small distance between her and William. Throughout lunch, she noticed him inching closer. She still wasn't sure she wanted that kind of attention, at least maybe not from him. He was handsome, there was no question about that, but any thought of him was squashed by one of Robin. Maria took a large gulp of water, wishing her mind would stop with so many conflicting thoughts.
As their lunch came to an end, the boys paid for the girl's meals and ignored their protests. Then they escorted them home, agreeing that Bast would enter with them to further distract his mother.
"Well ladies, I believe these are yours?" Bast handed over their captive letters to Cat.
"A letter from Jane! And what's this? Maria, I believe you are receiving books again."
Perplexed, Maria took the package. Like before, it lacked a return address, and this one had splotches of ink threatening to blot out her own address. Maria opened it to reveal a book. Aside from its creases filled with the dust, the book looked brand new.
William cocked his head, "who's that from?"
"I don't know."
"Could be dangerous."
"Or perhaps, it's from a secret admirer," Cat said wiggling her brows.
"No, I'm sure they're from my uncle. He has a hard time showing affection."
William stepped closer and gestured for her book, which she happily handed over. William inspected it, flipping through its pages. Satisfied, he handed it back to her.
"Best be careful, you never know if there are sinister intentions from the sender."
Maria laughed, "No that's just not possible. What evil person would have time to send me books? I am sure they're from my uncle."
William frowned and inspected her face. He stepped closer. His hand brushed down her arm before softly covering Maria's hands. As if on cue, Bast and Cat turned to head inside the school.
Williams' eyes scanned the trace of her face, stopping at the string of pink pearls around her neck. Maria's breathing stalled, she felt her heart quicken. Maria's eyes scanned the streets which were, thankfully, empty.
William bent close, his cheek just a hair's breadth from hers.
"Please be careful," William whispered into her ear. His lips traced down to her cheek where he placed a soft kiss, sending chills down through Maria's body.
Maria released a breath. She looked up. William's eyes were focused on her, beseechingly. He certainly was handsome. Any girl would be lucky to have his attention, but she wasn't sure she was that girl. She felt her face grew hot.
"Thank you, William, I—I'll do my best."
She gently pulled her hands from his and rushed to school. Mrs. Watson was occupied by Bast and Cat, Maria didn't bother to stop. She was certain Cat gave Mrs. Watson an excuse for her absence. Maria's breathing was staggered as she ran into their room and jumped onto her bed. She muffled her groan with a pillow, letting the guilty feeling sink in.
Lizzy looked up from her green journal, clearly confused. She was about to ask Maria what happened, when Maria cried out through her pillow, "I don't want to talk right now!"
Lizzy scowled and left the room in search for Cat. As soon as found Cat, she pulled her into an empty corridor.
"Where have you girls been?"
"Mrs. Watson sent us to pick up the post. We ran into Bast and William, and had lunch with them," Cat responded nonchalantly.
Lizzy exasperatedly raised her hands. "Cat, why would you do that? It's dangerous. Murders have been occurring all throughout England."
"Lizzy, nothing's happened here in London. I'm sure we're safe. Besides, who would come after a couple of school girls in broad daylight."
Lizzy shook her head. "No, no, you don't understand. You're not just a couple of school girls. You're one girl and one Moon Princess! It's more dangerous than ever!"
"Why is it more dangerous, Lizzy? Althea and Charles are imprisoned, correct? There's nothing to worry about. Or, do you know something we don't?"
Lizzy looked flustered and sputtered, "It just is, you could be kidnapped. What if Charles' friends come after you? The streets are too dangerous right now."
"That hasn't stopped you."
Lizzy froze. "What are you talking about?"
Cat prodded a finger into the center of Lizzy's chest. "It hasn't stopped you from sneaking out at night."
"I don't know what you mean."
"Lizzy, you honestly think I'm stupid? You don't think I've noticed you dozing off during class. Or that green journal that you religiously keep by your side?" Cat said grabbing Lizzy's wrist.
"Where did you even get that from?—Hang on," Cat said noticing something else as well. She raised Lizzy's arm. In her hand held fast was the green journal and now, a green fountain pen she'd never seen before.
"Lizzy, is that pen made of Mother-of-Pearl? When did you get this?"
"Yesterday…" Lizzy responded, wincing.
Cat groaned. "You don't think I've seen you leave in the dead of night to God knows where, dressed as a man? You can't be keeping secrets from us!"
Lizzy's face morphed to shame and regret. She moved to lean against the corridor wall. "How long have you known?"
"Well before Christmas."
Lizzy gasped, "why didn't you tell me sooner?"
"I was giving you the benefit of the doubt. You're my sister, I wanted you to tell me first."
Lizzy rested her head on her hand and rubbed her temple.
"They're from Henry, the journal and the pen—"
"—What's going on Lizzy?"
"—Althea and Charles, they've escaped."
Cat stopped. She muttered a curse under her breath. "We must tell Maria."
"Cat no!" Lizzy grabbed her hand to stop her from going back to their room. "Henry said Sir Benjamin does not want her to know."
"But she must, she's the Moon Princess. If anyone could stop her, it's her!"
"That's the problem, don't you see? She'll go after them herself. She'll put herself in danger. It's been almost 6 months and she's nowhere near understanding her magic or how to use it. She might get herself killed!"
"Lizzy, this isn't right."
"I know Cat. My own guilt makes sleep impossible. But we must wait, just a bit longer. This book here—" Lizzy raised her green journal to her sister's face "—contains all of mine and Henry's notes. We've compiled different training regiments for Maria, to harness her power."
"When were you planning on telling us?"
Lizzy's eyes lit up, "Tonight!"
...oOo...
"Lizzy, is his absolutely necessary?" Maria asked trailing behind Lizzy. They were climbing the hidden staircase into the school's attic.
"Yes Maria, we could get caught in our room."
"Caught doing what?" Though Maria pressed for answers, Lizzy remained silent. Maria turned back to look at Cat.
"Cat what is your sister going on about?"
The flickering lamplight faintly illuminated Cat who only flashed a rogue smile and beckoned she lower her voice with her finger. They were, after all, at risk of being overheard through the walls.
As soon as they reached the attic, she surveyed the room filled with confiscated and long-forgotten items. Lizzy cleared a small table and set the lamp down. She turned up the lamps fire, expanding the circular ring of light to embrace her friends. The crescent moon streaming through the steeple window aided the lamp in illuminating cobwebs littered across the dusty items. The girls quickly cleared a circle around the table and waited for Lizzy's explanation.
"Maria, we are here to help you learn to control your magic."
Maria felt herself grow lightheaded. She wasn't sure just how they were going to do that, but at least now she understood why Lizzy took them to the seclusion of the school's abandoned attic.
"With every day that you don't know your own powers, is another day Althea has to wreak havoc. I've been working with Henry, and we've come up with a series of activities that may help you access the Moon Pearls' magic. Do you want to try?"
She wasn't going to deny an opportunity like this, though she was sure there wasn't much of a choice. "It does seem I've waited long enough," Maria replied, her voice felt dry, she was nervous. "What if something goes wrong? What if I don't have the ability to wield magic? What if it's only bestowed on me when I need it the most?"
Lizzy smiled, "well Maria, that is just what we're going to find out!"
The only times Maria used magic so far was when they were under attack. Lizzy believed it was due to Maria's desire to protect her family and friends. This helped her focus her energy on magic which was inside of her and the pearls. Henry however, worried the magic was only inside of the pearls and a tool to use strictly for emergencies. This would make it impossible for Maria to train with.
They needed to determine if the magic was an extension of the pearls for Maria to use, or if the magic was strictly limited to the pearls and only active when she was in danger.
To begin, Lizzy guided Maria and Cat through meditation exercises. Lizzy needed Maria to focus and distance herself from any pressing matters. She also made Cat participate to accompany Maria.
After meditation, Lizzy had Maria sit in front of the lantern and concentrate on it. So far, her magic seemed to manifest itself in the form of light. Lizzy believed Maria could channel her magic to increase the fire's brightness. Lizzy had many other theories to test, but her readings all shared one common warning: they needed to use extreme caution or risk the user's life.
Lizzy learned many believed all magic to be an extension of a person's energy. Even with the use of a magical object, such as a wand, or in this case, Maria's pearls, the object was still channeling the wielder's energy into magic. Therefore, the moon pearl's magic will always be limited by Maria's own ability and endurance. Lizzy couldn't push Maria too much, doing so could put her life at risk.
While Cat watched and encouraged Maria, Lizzy took down detailed notes. She noted Maria's stance, ability to focus, what distracted her, and her growing exhaustion. She had Cat keep an eye on the flame, noting any flickering or growth for Lizzy to write down. They were barely into an hour of practice when Maria fell back onto her hands. She was sweating and shivering.
Lizzy and Cat rushed to Maria. Lizzy checked Maria's pulse and wrote it down, while Cat used her handkerchief to wipe Maria's face.
"How do you feel Maria?"
Maria scowled and furrowed her brow. "Weak. I couldn't even make the flame flicker."
Lizzy smiled and helped Maria stand up. "That's a good sign then. If you were simply staring at the fire, then you wouldn't be so exhausted. If you're tired, it must mean you were working hard to use your magic."
"When I used it on Althea or the highwaymen, I didn't get this tired," Maria whined.
"Perhaps initially you were too distracted trying to save us to feel exhausted. But, don't forget, you did sleep for a week after your battle with Althea."
"Yes, and I'm sure Mother Nature or the first Moon Princess were helping you as well!" Cat added.
Maria pursed her lips, thinking carefully.
"You did great Maria," Lizzy continued. "It's well into the late night and we have loads of other things to do. But for this week this is more than enough."
"Is that it?" Maria weakly asked.
"Yes, we can't do this too much, at least not yet. You don't have the energy."
Maria shook her head. "I've waited long enough. I want to come back tomorrow."
"No, Maria! You can barely stand!" Cat retorted.
"How about this. We will come back in three days, if you can last as long as you did today, we'll start off twice a week and go from there."
Maria sighed and nodded her head. She wrapped her arms around herself, trying to stop her shivering. Her pearls felt cold as well.
"Are you sure?" Henry asked the tavern man.
"Saw him myself, hard to miss that scar. Been wondering how he got it."
"Somethings are best left a mystery." Thanking the man, Henry folded his paper and tucked it into his jacket's pocket.
"Anything good?" Robin asked Henry as he stepped outside the tavern.
Rounding up his friends, Henry informed them the tavern man was sure he spotted John, or at least a young man with a similar scar as him. They left a few hours ago, heading south.
"South, why south?" Asked David.
"I don't know. Their sightings have been random. I'll have to talk to Lizzy about this."
"She knows?—"
"Yes, don't fret Robin. She promised not to tell. I had to come clean after she was mugged trying to meet me—"
"Hang on, you've been meeting with her?"
Henry rolled his eyes. "How else were we supposed to know what's going on? You couldn't expect us to wait around until you finally decided to talk to Maria. That's beside the point, the streets are dangerous, more so for them now.
"Robin, you said you started training Maria to fight correct?"
"Yes, but only once, then she had to go back to school."
"Good, Lizzy will be training her to use her magic. You'll need to find a way to continue her lessons."
"Yes, like I can just waltz right in and ask her headmistress to let me teach the art of defense," Robin snapped sarcastically.
David laughed. "Like rules ever stopped you Robin."
Though Henry was glad his friends were back on friendly terms, they still had business to attend to. "Robin you have the entire ride to think of a way, but you can't deny she needs it. Let's head off, the longer we wait, the farther they get— Bloody hell Richard, have you been paying attention?" Henry asked exasperatedly. It was bad enough he first had to deal with a turbulent Robin, but now, even Richard seemed off lately. When he thought no one was looking, he would grow quiet, sometimes even going to sleep earlier than them all. At night, David would wake up and hear hi mumbling, whispering incoherent things, though more than once, he did catch the name 'Jane'. Richard's friends figured he was missing Jane.
"Huh? Oh yeah, sorry." Richard mounted his horse and gestured for the boys to carry on.
Henry shook his head. Figuring this was a discussion for another night, they set off. While Henry and Robin planned their ambush, David trailed behind to fall alongside Richard who was once again lost in his thoughts.
"Richard, you alright?" David asked. When Richard didn't seem to notice, David flicked Richard's shoulder, startling him to attention. Realizing it was just David, Richard sheepishly smiled and scratched his neck.
"Yes. Sorry about that, haven't been feeling myself. Did you realize St. Valentine's was a few days ago?"
David scrunched his face. He was confused. "…Sort of? Why does that matter?"
"Oy Robin!" Richard called out. "Did you send Maria something? For Valentine's?"
Robin stalled, even his horse seemed to slow down. "Erm, I sent her a book?"
"Did you actually add your name to the address?"
"…No," Robin muttered.
"Really Robin, after everything she's done for you?"
Robin shook his head and muttered something about being too busy chasing monsters and sending her letters when they got back.
"What about you, Henry? Don't tell me you're daft like Robin."
Though Henry's cheeks warmed from embarrassment, he made a face, annoyed Richard would think he'd forget about Lizzy. "Don't get your knickers in a twist, I sent her a new pen. And what's that got to do with anything? We got more pressing matters."
Shaking their heads, Robin and Henry went back to planning their attack.
Richard nodded his approval. "What about you David, when will you pull a move on Cat?"
David laughed, "Sorry to disappoint mate, but I can't compete."
Richard groaned, "Another idiot. You can't quit before beginning!"
"She's better off with someone else."
Richard leaned over the gap between his and David's horse to punch David in the arm. "Don't you dare say that again!"
David scowled, "You're one to talk, bet you haven't spoken a word to Jane since Bristol. You didn't even bother with the tavern girls, and you know how easy they are during Valentine's."
Richard glowered. "I just want to make sure you're all taken care of."
"What are you even going on about?"
Richard looked downcast. He shrugged his shoulders and turned away. "Nothing's wrong. Nothing's happened. I…it's just… I've had a bad feeling, is all."
"Bad feeling? We can't have you being like this."
Richard groaned, "Yes a bad feeling. See, this is why I haven't said anything. Can't go around saying I have a bad feeling without rhyme or reason, can I? And knowing how foolish you lot can be with the opposite sex, I can't help but feel the need to make sure my mates will be fine should something happen to me."
David scrunched his nose, "You're speaking nonsense. First, we can talk to ladies just perfectly fine and don't need your help—" Richard snorted, but David ignored him and continued, "—Secondly, nothing's going to happen, so stop speaking like that, you sound like a fool."
Richard grimaced. Though Richard wanted to believe David, he couldn't. Not when he felt a coldness gripping his heart. Not when a feeling of despair clawed at the pit of his stomach. He was growing frustrated. "I know it sounds like nonsense. But—but I can't help it. Every damn morning, I wake up feeling dread. Like something bad's about to happen."
"Maybe you just finally realized how much you miss Jane and that there's some suitor out there trying to marry her hand."
Richard's frown deepened. He stayed silent, thinking about the last time he saw her in Bristol. Richard looked up at the stars and sighed. That wasn't it, he was sure, but it didn't make things any better.
The De Noir gang continued their hunt late into the moonless night. They passed sleeping villages and traveling merchants. They passed a town that was still up, celebrating their mayor's birthday. Then, they caught up to a lone caravan
"Could that be them?" Robin asked.
"Only one way to find out!"
The galloping horses drew nearer and caught the coachman's attention. He turned back and his eyes widened. He whipped the horses into a gallop.
"It's him!" Henry shouted. "It's John! I think Michael's there too!"
Robin gritted his teeth and quickened his horse, overtaking Henry. The caravan grew closer with each second. He could make out the darkened silhouettes of the travelers within. The men spotted Robin, and shouted warnings. They drew their guns and took aim.
Robin and Richard steered their horses to one side of the caravan. Henry and David to the other. They narrowly missed the bullets. Robin readied himself to mount the caravan and take John on, when a soaring figure high above cast a dark shadow down over them. A jolt of pain shot from the scar on his back up to this head. Robin paled. He didn't need to remember to know who it was.
It was Althea. She came down from above, flying side to side, and used her wings and talons to swipe at the gang as though they were mere flies. The boys were narrowly thrown off to the side of the road. Robin's eyes widened. So this was the monstrous Althea, it was no wonder everyone feared her. Robin gritted his teeth and narrowed his eyes, couraged filled his heart as he thought of Maria. To think Maria took her down all on her own. He shook his head, ignoring the pain, and grew determined to help her in any way that he could.
"Take care of Althea!" Robin commanded. He and Henry continued their chase, fighting the bandits and dodging bullets.
David and Richard fell behind and shot their guns. Althea expertly dodged their bullets.
"It's no use! Blasted bird is too quick!" Richard shouted.
"We've got to bring her to the ground!" David shouted back.
Richard looked around them. Althea was flying circles around them, trying to claw anything within reach. The only thing they could do was keep galloping and shoot her when she got too close. They were running out of bullets. There was nothing they could use. Richard cursed.
"I have a plan. Keep her away for as long as you can!"
David rounded up on Althea and shot a bullet that did no more damage than tear out few feathers. She shot a spell which David evaded.
Richard was trying to stand on his moving horse.
Althea was moving once more towards Richard. David needed to get her away, he took aim and pulled the trigger. Nothing happened. He was out of ammunition. Thinking quick, David shouted at Althea. Drawing her attention. He threw his gun with all his might and smacked her in the beak. She released a screech and flew down to get him. David yelled and kicked his horse into action. Running side to side across the road, he narrowly avoided her deadly grasp.
Though slightly shaky, Richard was now standing on top of his horse's saddle.
"David! I'm ready! Get her over here!"
David yanked on his horse's rein and galloped back towards Richard. Althea soared up to the sky and turned midair. With another battle cry she came back down, her focus solely on David.
David was riding closer, heading straight towards Richard, Althea a mere foot behind David. Just before he could crash into Richard, David swerved his horse to the side, not sparing a second too soon as Althea was about to latch her talons onto his back.
In that split second, Richard unsheathed his sword. He aimed for her underside, but his horse, frightened by the creature, moved and skewed his strike. Richard's sword sliced off a talon and pierced into her thigh, right as her claws sunk into his shoulders. They both cried out in pain, Richard fighting the wave of blackness threatening to consume him.
Now raging with fury, and Richard pinned on to her remaining talons, Althea took off to the sky, ready to make an example of him.
David tossed his knives at her, but he wasn't quick enough. Althea cackled. She swung her legs forwards, tossing Richard into the air like a mere ragdoll. She jutted forwards, her beak aiming for his neck, when, with his last remaining energy, Richard swung his curved dagger, slicing across her face. Althea's face snapped to the side and she missed, her beak clasping tightly onto Richard's arm instead of his neck.
Richard screamed in pain and the two came tumbling downwards. Althea struggled to keep them in the air, but Richard's flailing body and her injuries made it impossible. Before they could hit the ground, Althea released him, escaping to safety. Richard's body landed with a sickly crack.
"RICHARD!" David yelled, running towards him.
Robin and Henry stopped their chase and turned back. They spotted two black stallions, riderless, fearfully running in circles. Dread gripped their hearts and they raced back to their friends.
They found David with tears in his eyes and holding Richard's bleeding body to his chest. Robin and Harry paled.
"Don't just stand there! Let's go!" David barked.
Robin and Henry snapped out of their stupor and immediately worked to gather their horses and weapons. Richard was in and out of conscious. He groaned and withered with pain but fought against his friends' hold. He could feel Althea's poison tearing his body apart, to think Jane once dealt with this poison as well. Richard released a frantic moan.
Richard continued to fight against his friends. He was sputtering and moaning, "Paper—I need paper."
"You git! A doctor is what you need!" David cried out. The boys desperately tried to stop his bleeding as they carried him on to Henry's horse.
By the time they arrived at the nearest town, he was limp, no longer moving.
And as always, thank you to my incredibly awesome followers and people who favorite, as well as the wonderful, lovely, and amazing reviewers Kasia24, WhenPigsFly2018, canaryinacoalmine, SilverScarlet626, dustbinlyd, and Unknown. Its crazy to hear that you all like the OCs and that this story could even inspire someone to write their own. Your reviews help me through the horrors of exams and team projects o.o
-gladsss
