Usual disclaimers apply.
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Chapter 41
"I'm scared, Sam." Rory was sitting cross legged on my bed trying hard not to pick at her nails. "Since when do I sense the gods? Since when do I have flashbacks of a giant man handing me a cup? The same giant man whom confronted you today!"
"I don't know," I admitted. Leaning back against the wall I pulled my knees up and locked my fingers around them. "My guess is that this is something to do with you being Rhys and Rory."
"So I was someone else too?" Rory asked. "Come on, Sam. I don't need another personality."
Chuckling I nodded, "Don't I know it?" I teased laughing when she stuck her tongue out at me. "I think that as long as it isn't hurting you or causing you to do weird stuff or black out and kill chickens…"
"Your mother had to pack that book series," Rory teased. "Yeah, I get it. We shall not name it until we have to."
"Exactly. Just like he who shall not be named," I teased as Rory shoved me.
Straightening up Rory sighed, "I still don't like this, Sam. Do you think it's because the gods screwed with me before? I mean making me Rhys and then Rory?"
I shrugged and extended my legs before crossing them at the ankles, "I honestly don't know. I only know that you've never done anything goddess like since coming here. I think we're safe. I'll ask Mama and Mom to be sure but I think we should keep it quiet from others."
"My moms?"
"They need to know but nobody else." I said.
Rory nodded and then gave me a small smile, "I guess there's never a dull moment is there?"
"Nope."
Heavy footsteps proceeded Mama's arrival and I looked to the doorframe as she leaned against it. "What are you two plotting?"
"How to overthrow the British monarchy and make it an Amazon territory." I quipped as Mama shook her head.
"So what's up?" She prodded coming into the room and pulling up the rocking chair to the side of the bed.
"Rory can feel the gods," I announced.
"Damn." Mama ran her hand down her face and sighed. "How long?"
"The last couple of times they showed up out of nowhere," Rory said. "Not to mention that I had a memory or something about that tall guy handing me a cup after seeing him today."
"Anything else?"
Rory shook her head and I spoke again, "We think it might be left over from the gods messing with her. You know being Rhys and now Rory."
"Yeah," Mama agreed. "The last thing you need is another personality."
I began to laugh as Rory glared at us both. "What?" Mama asked.
"I said the same thing," I finally got out.
"Still your mother's daughter," Mama quipped.
"Oh yeah." I sat up and hugged Rory. "Don't worry," I told my best friend. "It will all work out. After all, you've got us on your side and everyone knows not to mess with Xena and Gabrielle."
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"That was fun!" Eve's blue eyes sparkled with excitement. "I wish Auntie could let us travel like her every time we needed to go someplace far away."
"Me too," I quipped as Mom and Mama narrowed their eyes at us.
"Me too!" Emily shouted.
"And me!" Zoe yelled running in circles in the large open area that Auntie had placed us in when she transported us from the village to the area in front of the cavern.
"I still don't see why we just couldn't ride here," Mama huffed.
"Because I actually wanted to spend my entire birthday here," I replied. "Not traveling for six months to reach this place."
"Six months?" Mom asked.
Rolling my eyes I sighed and looked at her, "Of course not, Mom. It's called exaggerating. You know I hate traveling here. Six hours or six months, it sucks. Auntie made the trip here and back one of my birthday gifts."
"Go Auntie, go Auntie," Eve's chant and dance put all eyes on her. "What?" She asked in a perfect imitation of Mama.
"Where did you learn that?"
"Rory," Eve grinned.
"Did she teach you anything else?" Mom asked quietly.
Noticing Nasa sniffing the edge of the grass near us, Eve nodded, "Who let the dogs out? Woof, woof!"
"I'm going to kill her," Mama muttered as I giggled.
"Oh that's great," I grabbed Eve and swung her in a circle. "Want to learn some other things, little bit?"
"From you?" Eve grinned when I put her back on the ground. "Do you really have to ask?"
"Me too! Me too!" Emily and Zoe yelled clamoring around Eve and me. "And don't forget Grace!" Emily demanded pointing to the youngest in our family.
"Don't worry," Eve said. "I'll make sure Gracie learns everything she's supposed to learn."
Zoe nodded her head seriously, "That's cause you're a great big sissy and tell us how to do stuff the best ways."
Seeing Eve's ego swell up like a balloon I shook my head and then began to laugh at the look of horror on Mom and Mama's faces. "What's the matter ladies?" I teased. "Getting too old for this?"
Mama shook her head. "Just envisioning the next eighteen years." Taking Mom's hand Mama looked down at her. "Think if we run away from home they'll find us?"
"I have no doubt," Mom nodded. "That one," Mom pointed to me. "Would find a way."
"And don't you ever forget that," I quipped. "You promised me I'd never be alone here and I'm holding you to that."
Taking Eve's hand I nodded to the twins and though she sighed, Eve took one of Zoe's hands as I grabbed Emily. "Okay sisters, I think it's time we show the moms this cavern. Everyone is going to love it." Heading towards the opening in front of us I took a deep breath before entering. The torches just inside the entrance lit upon our entrance and Eve's pronouncement 'damn' caused Mama to chuckle right before I heard Mom backhand her on the arm.
"Well Eve's right," Mama protested. "That is cool."
"Auntie told me that only those welcome by the gods would have the torches lit," I added. Stopping I looked over my shoulder and my moms and my littlest sister. "This cavern is a sacred place to those on Olympus and there are some secrets that I've uncovered…" I trailed off and turned forward again. "I can't wait to show you what's on the other side."
"The other side?" Mom asked quietly.
"Yeah, this cavern leads to someplace else. I'm still not sure how it works but from what I've gathered through my reading and my talks with my favorite goddess and Kassandra," I took a breath as the cavern deepened. "I only know that we can use it for shelter if needed. I guess on the other side there are rooms of some sort, but there is also another opening that Aunt Hestia says is amazing and Artemis tells me has wonderful hunting."
We finished the walk in silence and I stopped short as we reached the other side of the cavern. Aunt Hestia was correct in that the cavern would provide us wonderful shelter for our short visit. Letting go of my sisters' hands I turned around and whistled. The main area of the cavern had a fire pit in the center along with what looked like two very comfortable couches and three overstuffed chairs. There was also a large coffee table near the furniture.
Past the living area I noticed a large rectangular table with chairs around it. A candle lit chandler was hanging above the table and I shook my head at the now recognized dining table. Seeing openings off the main area we all headed in different directions and I shook my head at what I found. Each opening contained a very comfortable bed, small night table, and a small cupboard for our belongings. I noted that Auntie had already sent our belongings into the bedrooms and I chuckled when I heard Eve's proclamation of how nice it was to have her own bedroom here.
Finding my room I noticed a large pink box on the center of the bed. Getting closer I took the envelope from the top of the box and opened it. The scent of rose petals filled the room and I moved the box aside to sit on the bed. Opening the letter I found I began to read:
My Little Warrior Bard,
This birthday is a big one for you and I wish that I would be there to celebrate. Don't forget that we are going to have your special birthday picture the minute you get back to the village. I know your mommies think it's crazy that we still do it, but then they don't know about the pictures in the photo album do they?
The item in the box is something that I know you will enjoy and it gives me great joy to give it to you. The smaller box in the big box is a companion for your locket and I think you will understand when you see it. I know that I've never really explained why you aren't to take off your locket but I will explain all that on your eighteenth birthday. Just know that the companion to your locket needs to follow the same rules as your locket. I realize I'm being a bit cryptic and that I usually try not to be but there is a reason for this.
I know you would probably love to be having your favorite pizza and a big party with your friends in the future, but remember that you are loved by many here. Rory is here for a reason, my little warrior bard, and though it will take time before all is revealed know that she is no threat to you or your family. No matter what happens remember this.
Enjoy your gifts from me and remember that Auntie Hestia will be catering your birthday this year with a bit of help from yours truly.
Happy Birthday, Samina.
Love,
Your favorite goddess mother
Putting the letter back into the envelope I closed my eyes and felt it disappear into my locket. Turning once more I opened the box in front of me and grinned before removing the outfit inside. Auntie had given me an exact replica of my favorite pair of jeans, t-shirt, and jacket from the future. Also included were the softest pair of sweat pants, long sleeve t-shirt, and hoodie. The shirt had my quill and sword design on the front and I immediately shed my current attired to put on the sweats and t-shirt. Noticing a smaller box and more fabric I picked up the box and shook my head. Under the smaller pink box were two pairs of the most wonderful looking socks I had seen in years. Picking the dark purple pair I pulled them on and sighed in contentment. I decided right then and there that we had to find a way to recreate these socks in the village.
"Sam," Eve stopped and stared at me. "Why can't I have clothes like that?" She demanded coming up to me and stroking the soft periwinkle colored t-shirt and gray sweat pants. I have got to get Aunt Hessie on board with future clothing and comfort."
Picking Eve up I hugged her tightly. "Tell you what, little bit, I will get Auntie to give you your own sweat outfit when we get home. I think every big sister needs to have comfy clothes to relax in."
"Thanks Sam!" Eve's arms went around my neck. "Oh by the way, the moms say it's time to check out the open area outside this part of the cavern."
"I'll be right there," I placed Eve on the floor and turned back to the box. Knowing the item I saw in it now hadn't been there before I decided to let it go and pulled on the running shoes. They fit perfectly and I sighed happily. I then pulled out the smaller pink box and slowly opened it. Frowning a bit I pulled out a ceramic box in the shape of a wolf. Opening it I found a ring with the same design as my locket. Placing it on my right ring finger I saw the ring sparkle and then glow a bright blue color before it turned back to a simple gold. Looking closer though I noticed a word I hadn't seen before. The ring read simply, 'Remember.'
"Sam are you…" Mom trailed off as she saw my outfit. I had stood upon her arrival and she looked up at me. "She didn't."
I grinned, "She did. Isn't it great?" Turning around I held up my foot and wiggled it. "Look, tennis shoes. How awesome is this. Oh and check out her other clothing gifts." I pointed towards the bed and Mom merely shook her head at my jean outfit. "Aphrodite…." She trailed off once more when she turned to back to me. "Any other gifts?"
"This," I held out my hand and Mom gently took my hand into hers. "Remember? What does that mean?"
"I have no idea," I replied honestly. "So, are we going to check out this place or not?" I asked linking arms with Mom and guiding her to where everyone else was waiting just outside the cavern.
"Where's my sweat outfit?" Mama asked upon seeing me.
"I'll get Auntie to give you one when we get back to the village."
"Just like me, Mama." Eve announced. "Sam says every big sister needs comfortable clothes."
"I think Sam is right," Mama agreed handing Mom Grace and pulling me into a hug. "Happy Birthday, little one." She whispered. "We will talk later."
Saying nothing, I laid my head on her shoulder and hugged Mama tightly. Closing my eyes I allowed myself to relax and simply feel safe in her arms the same way I did when I was so much younger. "Promise me you'll never leave?" I whispered finally looking into her eyes.
"I promise you, Sam, that your mother and I will do our best to never leave you if we can help it."
I nodded my head and stepped back. Holding back the tears I moved away from my family and looked at the horizon. The sky was a wonderful shade of blue and I noticed a wooded area to our right. A high cliff with a waterfall was to our left and emptied into a large lake. The place was beautiful and I truly felt at peace. Heading towards the lake behind my now running sisters and Nasa, little did I know this place would become so much more than simply a birthday destination.
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"Sam wake up," Eve's voice was a harsh whisper and I groaned before opening my eyes.
"I want to sleep, little bit."
"You can't," Eve's voice was a little too serious and I sat up reaching over to the night table and lighting the candle there. Seeing that Eve was dressed with Nasa at her side I slid from the bed, glad that I had slept in my sweats, and slipped my tennis shoes on. Grabbing my sword I strapped it on my back making sure that dagger from Nebula was in the small of my back and my staff was in my hand. Following Eve I finally spoke when we were a good distance from the cavern.
"What in hell is going on?"
"The twins are missing," Eve looked up at me and sighed. "I'm afraid they took my story too seriously. I'm just glad there's a full moon, we can track them."
"We need to get Mama, little bit."
"No!" Eve shook her head and held onto my hands. "I wasn't supposed to tell them the story of the candy house and the witch in the forest. Mama knew they'd want to go find it."
"Damn," I muttered. "We have to get Mama, little bit. I'm sorry but we need her skills."
"Sam, please." Looking into the face of my sister I sighed heavily.
"Alright, let's go." Taking Eve's hand I went against my better judgement and headed towards the woods hoping that there were no lions, bears, or tigers in wait for us.
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Noticing the sun coming up I groaned, "Seriously, Eve, how far could two four year olds have gotten?"
"Pretty damn far," Eve replied. "Duh."
"I am going to get you for this, Eve."
"Try me, Samina." Eve stuck her tongue out at me and I found myself returning the jester.
Running my hand down my face I shook my head, "Real mature, Sam." I muttered. "I think I hear them," running in the direction of the sounds I heard Eve swearing at me in every language she knew as her shorter legs tried to keep up with mine.
I followed the noises and finally stopped at the top of a hill. Looking down the hill I sighed in relief. The twins were playing with some type of small animal near a body of water at the bottom of the hill. Running once more I reached my sisters in record time. "Hi Sam," two smiles greeted me and it was all I could do not to swat them all the way home.
"Hi? Where have you been all night?" I demanded as Eve finally caught up with us.
"Playing," Zoe began only to scream when Eve punched her on the arm before quickly punching Emily on the arm as well.
"You know not to leave the cavern," Eve panted as I pulled her back.
"You know not to punch them." I admonished.
"They deserved it," Eve put her hands on her hips and glared at me and the twins the same way that Mom did when she was angry. "They're just lucky we found them and it wasn't Mama."
"It wasn't Mama?" A deep voice said and I immediately sat on the ground and pulled my knees up. Putting my face into my knees I groaned.
"How did I not notice you following us?" I finally managed.
"I think you were a bit distracted," Mama replied sitting down next to me. "Now who is going to tell me what the hell is going on before I start tanning backsides first and asking questions later?"
"Hi, Mama."
"Don't you hi, Mama me, Samina. What is going on here and why didn't you get me?"
"Because we didn't want you to know," Eve supplied. "Not like we wanted our tail feathers tanned." Eve rolled her eyes and I ducked my head as Mama's icy blue glare landed on me.
"She has a way with words, don't you think, Mama?" I asked.
Mama merely nodded before shifting her positon so that she was crouching down in front of the twins. "Girls, what are you doing?"
"Playing with our new friend." Zoe answered as if Mama had asked the dumbest question ever.
"And who is your new friend," Mama asked noticing the not so small creature in front of them.
A deep sigh from Emily met Mama's question, "It's Aunt Hessie's lion's baby. Sheesh, Mama. Don't you see the white mark on her head? This is Laina."
"Lana?" I asked.
"No, Sam." Zoe huffed. "Lay-nuh," she said slowly. And she wanted to play with us. Her mommy said it was okay as long as we didn't go too far away."
"Her mother talked to you?" Mama asked.
Zoe and Emily nodded, "Sure, Mama. Don't animals talk to everyone?" Emily asked. The twins suddenly stood and gave the lion cub one last pat. "Bye, Laina. Tell your mommy that we had fun tonight."
Seeing movement in the brush on the other side of the water I tensed and then relaxed as the lioness slowly walked towards us. She waited for her cub and then shook her head and roared before sitting down and waiting.
"Mama?" Zoe asked.
"Yes?"
"Laina's mommy says she's sorry that we wandered so far from the cavern. It won't happen again, but she watched us all night."
Mama nodded and stood, "Thank you." Mama addressed the lioness and shrugged. "I'm sorry but I don't know your name."
A roar echoed around us and Zoe and Emily giggled. "She said her name is a secret but you can call her Mystica."
"Thank you for watching my children, Mystica." Mama smiled. "As long as we are here you and your children will be well protected."
The lioness nodded in understanding before giving Laina a swat with her paw and heading back into the underbrush and disappearing.
Kneeling again Mama looked at the twins, her hand on each of them. "We are going to have a very long talk about you going off to play with new friends in the middle of the night." Mama began. She then pulled me to my feet and looked into my eyes. "And you and I are going to have a very long talk about why you don't listen to a six year old and make sure to get me and your mom when things like this happen." Mama kneeled once more and looked into Eve's eyes, "And you and I are going to talk about everything."
"Damn," Eve muttered.
"You said it, little bit." I agreed as we made our way back to the cavern and our doom.
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