Of Fire and Blood

by Lemonbite

In this tale, Bella won’t be the only new arrival to Forks, Washington. A mysterious young woman with secrets and strange gifts awaken among the pale strange residents known as the Cullens. Follow this peculiar foreigner navigate her way through this misfortunate whimsical Odyssey of horrors and gospel.

93. Fates Toils

As my feet scurried. The massive load of blood rushing to my head deafened my hearing. My eyesight blurred as I almost tripped along the aged Axminster carpet. Despite that. I was able to rely on sight and intuition as I raced toward the once piercing shriek down below. The myriad of thoughts buzzing in the back of my mind, pelted my heart as I assumed it was a death. I had missed the ending of another's life. Why do I blame myself for these things? Well. As someone that has dominion over this act. It's my direct responsibility to help them. Whether that be to pass over safely or rebirth them. This is my curse. As my feet touched the ground level. I found that it wasn't the situation I had assumed. There was a death, but not one of someone alive. My eyes passed the souls lingering. There was more inside than we had ever thought. They were just swaying about. Some were pacing. Attempting to leave. While others. Well. Several spirits were morphing. This phenomenon is essentially death. As close to death as a lost spirit can have. They sort of. Just go. Poof. My heart rate slowed and I relaxed my shoulders. The tight knots there wouldn't let up. For good reason, as another screech abounded from the direction of the barricaded ballroom. This one was familiar though. This one was from a member of my family. I knew exactly who made the sound. Yet I was too afraid to venture inside to see. Deliberate even paced steps slowed behind me. I stood completely still. Staring off down the hall that leads to the sound. Frankie- Jane took a position of defensive boredom next to me. I could barely see her out of the corner of my eye. I inched forward. Yet still didn't head down the hallway. I allowed my head to drift toward the sound of a dull banging. It almost reminds me of a shutter. Opening. Closing. The noise was coming from outside the castle. The villagers are coming. They will find a weak point in my witch mother's carefully crafted wards.

"Well. What are we waiting for?"

An impetuous tone slipped from Frankie-Jane. Almost as if she had heard my thoughts. I wasn't sure if she had. Mostly because I was shocked by how different she sounded. I recall her voice was always deep for a child's. However. Now it's more...It's more, fluid, soft, and rounded. Almost as if she was speaking in cursive. I ignored her. I turned my head from the front door and continued toward the ballroom. The sounds of my sister's voice continued to rise as I inched closer. I was careful to not jostle the dead lingering outside. They mostly ignored me now. As they were more curious about Frankie. Once the massive entryway was directly in front of us. I carefully undid the lock and let myself inside to find Rosalie being held down by a spell, as she screeched bloody murder. Calling out to ghosts from her past. The sight was horrific, especially if you knew her story. Her ex-husband's name gurgled in her throat. I clenched my fist as I resisted the urge to free her. The treatment was necessary as she had contracted ghost sickness. Red tears of terror poured from her eyes as she bucked against the pressure forcing her down. Her manicure was ruined as she kept smacking against the ground in protest. Hitting her fists into the delicate tile. Shards had cracked and flown like shrapnel. To ease her soul. I forced her under stasis. It takes a moment to settle. Once it does she'll sleep right through it. If the spell let up. Even for a second. She'd be up and attacking. You see. Ghosts. They can turn even the kindest soul into a maniac if they feed on them long enough. Knowing my sister's temper. It doesn't take much to set her ass off. Thankfully, A few potions, and some bed rest. She'll be alright. I think. I hope. Ghost sickness... it's almost like.

Well. It affects everyone differently. However, the main symptoms are. Nightmares and subtle signs of irrational fear. By irrational. I mean it can be as simple as a nudge of. Eh. I don't like how this pimple looks. I'll get it checked out. Soon that pimple, is a cancerous boil. The fear gets greater and greater as the illness progresses. Soon after, wounds mirroring those of the infected ghost received while dying appear on the victim without cause; basically, the victim will soon experience the ghost's death in slow progression. As the ghost sickness furthers. The victim will soon start hallucinating and feel a queasiness that morphs into vomit. Toward the end. The stages of the vomiting moves further into projecting blood. At the final climax of the illness, the victim will experience intense terror that will cause a fatal heart attack. However. In a vampire. A dead but yet. Undead? They soon become a vessel. Their soul withers away. While their body remains intact. Empty. Ready for possession. I'm all too familiar with that. As I cringed. Frankie casually questioned.

"How are you to fix this issue? Princess."

I rolled my eyes at Frankie- Jane's sarcastic drawl and pushed past the mob. I kept watching her as I neared my sister. I'm not sure of her motives. She hasn't harmed me yet. Keyword. Is yet! There she stood still. Just leaning against the entryway. Watching me. I took my eyes off Frankie for a moment to assess the damage. I saw just how many were touched. All the people nearest to Rose, will need to be quarantined. I now stand a foot away from Rose. I strained down to stare at her frozen corpse. Her crazed eyes expressed awareness. They were pinned to my boots. A muffled growl exited in protest of my conjuring of a muzzle. Drool leaked from the corners of her lips as I magicked it on. As she struggled against sleep. Red dripped from her crusty nose. A final hiss then her eyes closed. I loudly called out to the other occupants.

"Alright. Looks like we got a case of ghost flu. Everyone file into lines. Anyone with symptoms will be quarantined. You four. If you can carry her downstairs. That would be lovely. I'll be down once finished. Do not. I repeat. Do not! Leave."

A person was shoving through the looky-loos. I found that it was a student from Blackbriar. I hadn't spoken to them before but I'm pretty sure we were in the same house. He offered to help move her. The others followed out behind her. I ordered my volunteer to make sure everyone stays put in the dungeon. I cautioned him of spirits lingering. As Rose neared Frankie. I was intrigued to notice a fearful light in those pools. If Jane is afraid? This strain. Is advanced. That doesn't bode well. In my distraction. A pair of amber eyes took notice of our strange new guest. The owner didn't dare to move. They were hunkered in a far corner. Pretending to be slumped in a chair. Pretending to be consumed by the movie projected on the wall. Yet. Their eyes watched as Jane took a seat against the wall. Their eyes continued to notice the differences of her. Counting them. Taking them in. Adjusting for a later attack. Despite having ordered everyone up. I didn't fuss. I'd rather Kate and Jane stay on completely opposite sides of the room anyhow. Tanya was first in line. As she stood in front of me. Jittery and questioning. I noticed that Irina wasn't. She quietly stood behind her sister. Her eyes never lifted to meet mine. Another soul that has been damaged by my fate. At least Laurent deserved his. Since my last viewing of his character. I've felt less inclined to mourn. In my distraction, Tanya grew curious.

"Is that Jane?"

"I'm not at liberty to discuss that."

"So it is. She's awfully tall."

I took a quick breath in and nodded in agreement. She is. Frankie is taller. The difference isn't surprising. Supposedly. The bones of their father were kept by the church to be studied. Lots of. It's difficult to think about the cruelty bestowed upon my people. Jane's father was hung and then experimented on, he was approximately around 6'3. I'd say Frankie's around 5'11 now. Same as their mother. Whose remains went missing the night of the hanging. It was speculated she was stolen and buried somewhere on the land. I shivered at the idea of those spirits outside. The dead isn't just coming for me. But our guest. I was taken by surprise as Tanya grinned hungrily. I was reminded of the creature she truly is. I ignored my discomfort and checked her over for symptoms. She continued to question me about Frankie. Mostly wanting to know when she can obtain a dose of whatever the hell Carlisle made. I rolled my eyes. The doctor should be helping. I quickly sent her on her way without much information given in return. Irina stepped forward. Her head angled downward. Her fangs barely hidden behind her taut lips. As I waved a flashlight in her eyes. She complained. I held my breath. I get it. Vampire's eyes are sensitive to light but I'm not hurting her. Although. I did notice that she was ill. A nasty red crust was edging up her nose.

"Are you experiencing any nervousness?"

"Of course! I'm here. With you."

"Irina. He's dead. Get over it."

Her nose tipped high and snot dribbled.

"It must hurt more than anything to know yours is still alive. Yet. Hates you."

I nodded my head in agreement.

"Yes. Isabella's betrayal stings worse. However. I'm not chasing the dead. "

She tipped her head toward the door. Her eyes pinned on Frankie. A malicious smile curled as she mockingly reminded me.

"That may be true. But it's after you."

The nervousness was gone. She's nearing stage two. Rather than allow her to snap. She was immediately contained under stasis. Tanya was the first to fret. I calmly informed her that she would be alright. Rather than allow anyone else to carry her out. Tanya cradled Irina to her breasts and disappeared to the dungeon. Two vampires down... I don't like where this is going. As I continued to check the others. I noticed in attendance to help me was Aiden. I'm grateful. He was going down the line much quicker than I. I was growing worried with how many were being sent out. I felt a tap on my shoulder. The slender hand belonged to Frankie. Who had appeared at my side in a matter of seconds. I see the vampiric speed is still there. I acknowledged her by turning my ear. She leaned down to speak clearly.

"I'm starving."

"People aren't food here."

She snickered. It dawned on me. She's not looking to feed on them. I was sort of perplexed. Does she need? Well, I could go for a sandwich... this is just. Weird.

"I'll get you something in a second."

"Just trick them. The ones that faint are sick. The ones that don't. Are fine."

I was sort of pissed that I didn't think of that first. I awkwardly nodded my head in understanding and then called out some fake symptoms. Immediately. The ones that panicked were escorted out the room.

"Thanks."

She stood there awkwardly. Her hands draped down in front of her. Clasped. As I studied her hands. I noticed the length of her arms was the most apparent change. The pale noodles were sort of goofy looking compared to the rest of her upper body. She's statuesque. But not like a model. I couldn't place why it didn't look bad. She just looks sort of stretched. Which. She was. Oh. Food. I reached down to grab her hand and she flinched.

"I'm sorry."

"I don't like to be touched."

"Understandable. Is there anything you'd like in particular?"

We stood there. It took a long time. I noticed a blush build on her cheeks. They were more rounded with a purple bruise.

"I don't remember what foods I like."

The sound of someone calling my name forced us both to jump. I awkwardly excused myself. She just followed me. It was almost like having a shadow. She never complained about how long it was taking. She just followed. In my mind. I began to understand why. She's never been alone before. Even in birth...I almost shed a tear but kept it hidden. Once everyone was once again. Safe. I was finally able to sneak off to the kitchen. Her light steps ticked behind. As we neared. A delicious smell drifted in the hall. She quickened her pace and passed me. As she entered. The sounds of chatter quieted. It didn't bother her. She just snooped around for a bowl and made herself some soup. She was poised as she sat on a stool and devoured her meal.

I felt it prudent for me to join. As there's no telling when I'll get another chance. The soup was thick and hearty with meat and potatoes. The flavor was robust. Esme always outdoes herself. I think she enjoys being in here. It's quiet and Elizabeth never comes into the kitchen. The occupants this time were she and Willow. I felt a throb in my forehead and bit my tongue. The overall air she held spoke of unhappiness. You'd think with a kiddo and them trying to work things out. Everything would be smiles. She was curious about my shadow. While Esme. Kept her distance. She was wary of Jane. I drug my eyes to my right. I noticed that she's left-handed too. I was shocked to see pale pink nail polish. It sparkled with a silvery sheen. The luminosity of her skin was gone. As I trailed my eyes further. I gently spoke. "I see your robes aren't fitting. We can go find something."

"I'd like to keep them." She snapped.

"Why did you bring him to me?"

She was grateful. I could tell she's been dying to bring up her brother. Her shoulders tensed. Then relaxed immediately. A deep breath exited.

"My mother told me to."

"I don't understand."

"I was told a story. A vision. It was. It doesn't matter. Just. Please help him. I know that I don't deserve it. He's all I have left and technically. You owe me."

"I owe you?"

"Mhm. I could have killed you that day. I was impressed by your flames. I wanted to keep seeing them. Despite orders. You weren't strong enough to hold them. Your core had almost burnt to a crisp... "

"Well then. Thanks."

"You're welcome."

She dipped her bread into her empty bowl and swirled it around to get every last drop. Then plucked in her mouth with a moan. It was barely audible. I slid my bowl over and she immediately dug in.

"Thanks. I'm ravenous!"

"I see that. There is more."

"I'll take some to go."

"Where are you going?"

"Home."

"The village?"

Her spine strained and she laxed as she remembered. Her home is gone. She shook her head and just continued to eat. I took this time to examine them. The roundness of their features reminded me of the moon. Those soft purplish cheeks and small but plump lips. They held a rosy tinge that looked like a bloodstain. A button nose. Frankie was beautiful but it was hidden by a stoic mask of indifference. Shrouded in endless pain.

"You can stay."

"Sure. You say that now. What happens when your words get twisted by the opinions of another? There are several here who would love nothing more than to see my insides. I'll take my brother and a meal to go... unless I am a prisoner?"

I had nothing to say.

"I'll get started on that for you," Esme said. Jane nodded her head in thanks. In my dumbstruck. Word vomit poured freely. I simply asked what happened here. Why all those ghosts were clawing? Frankie sat thoughtfully, then explained.

"I fell in love."

"Really?"

"Mhm."

"Care to tell the story?"

"You know what? For you? I will."

As she prepared herself. Her spoon spun the edge of her bowl. She took a deep breath and then closed her eyes. Her voice took on a faraway sound. Almost as if she was unsure of the words leaving her lips.

"His name. I'm trying to remember but it's so. Distant. Ah. Yes. Kenneth...Gambit? No. Graham. He was a smart boy. Brilliant actually. Sweet too. At first. He was shy though. Incredibly so, but then so was I. He was tall. Not too tall. But taller than me, well, at that age. I seem to be. Older now? More my age? I'm not sure. But back then. I was a small fry as I'm sure you remember. Oh, I loved everything about him... especially his big brown eyes. They were so dark. Almost like deep wells. Lord knows I fell deep into them. He betrayed me...he paid a heavy price but then. So did I."

A tear slid down her cheek. She didn't wipe it. It just sat there. As I peered into it. My mind began to paint a picture of the story she whispered. An image of a small provincial village built. The greenery is lush. As are the clouds. The sound of rain thumps. A drifting of wind. I closed my eyes to see it more clearly and got lost.

——————————-

Jaspers pov.

The choice I made wasn't made lightly. I was warned. Well warned. Of the possibility that I may not make it out of here alive. Hell. I just barely made it out the last time. Dealing with Isabella will be more like a walk in the park compared to this. But I refuse to let my honey do what I have done. There's no coming back from killin a loved one, especially a parent. Brutus... he had it coming but it cored my soul right out. Made me ripe pluckings for my devils. Alex don't need no help in that department. She's burnt through it and hanging on her last thread. So regardless of fear. I gotta do what she can't. After drinking that swill Bella made. I immediately conked out into blackness. It's been pretty quiet. No demons insight. Just the solemn sound of my own mind.This normally would be torture for me. I don't do so well with quiet. Too many memories. Too much time. To drown everything out. Music helps, so does art, I use my craft as a way to purge the pain. Strangely enough. So did my father. He was a wonderful artist. He could draw anything. It was the only thing we had in common. That and his taste for liquor. Back in the day, before I was bitten. I was known to get rowdy with the boys. It didn't matter much back then but once Alice was around. Well, she wasn't fond of my drunken stupors. So I got straight. Listen to me. I finally have peace and I'm dredging up all the ugly I usually run from. I knew why the gates had opened.To distract myself from thinking of my maker. I thought back to earlier, before Alex and I roasted up some newborns. Just holding her in my arms. Eh, I'm a simple man. All I need is my baby. It was nice to just rest for a moment to just picture that angelic face and her sinful body. Mm. Scrumptious. My silence was disturbed by what sounded like children. A twinkling of giggles and chortles. They must be at play. I rousted my old bones and chased after the sound.

I was dumped deep inside a forested land. A meadow was present. Not unlike the one from home. Lush with life. Wildflowers abundant. Sun shining. About twenty feet out? I found the twins. At least I think that's them. I've never seen them smile before. In my day, I've run across them a few times. It was never fun. They looked. Content. Just running around all free. It's a damn shame to know what they become. I called out. Yet they continued to play as if I wasn't there.

Rather than poke and prod, I took a seat and plucked a flower. I played with the petals and basked under the sunshine. Its yellow rays glistened and touched every inch of grass the eye could see. A distant bell rang and the kiddos took off screaming. -Coming mother!- they pushed and shoved as they dashed off into a thicket. I allowed them a headstart before I followed after them. Their footsteps led me to a warm and cozy stone cottage. I pressed my face against a window with a glow from a candle. Inside there was a mother and a father, the twins and a babe. I was intrigued to find out that Alec got his dark tresses from their mother. He and she were the only ones, as everyone else had tufts of straw. She was tall and thin. A bit too thin for that round belly of hers. I wonder...the twins don't look much younger than when they were bitten. If they were the only ones to survive. That means the rest. I shook my head free of those thoughts and focused more on her. She was standing proud over a fireplace. Whisking a ladle around a pot. I tried to sniff and found it must be some type of stew. Her husband came up behind her and embraced her as he shouted for the kids to wash up. They swayed happily in peace. Damn. These kids had a good life... Well as good as one could get for what they are. In this era. I'm sure they were shunned. Forbidden from interacting with the townsfolk. It's probably why they live so deep in these woods. With meager meals. Working the land. Just trying to get by. The twins came back with their bowls ready to be filled. They all sat around a hand-carved table and bowed to say grace.

To my surprise. It was the Lord's Prayer. I know about the cult or whatever but it still shocks me to know. There are spells in the Bible. Magic. All of it is too. Dangerous. In my upset. I missed the change of scenery and memories. It's odd. The environment hadn't changed like with Alex and those crazy glitches. I was still standing in front of the window looking in. But it was dark inside. The candle was gone. So were they. It was cold and snow was falling. In the distance, I could hear the chopping of wood. So I followed the sound to find Alec and his father hacking away. Smoke billowed from a pipe hung between the tired old man's yellow teeth.

-Watch your grip. There you go.-

-After this, can we go hunt?-

-It's getting too dark. Maybe tomorrow.-

-You said that yesterday.-

-Boy, now I said not tonight.-

I hate that word. Boy. For as long as I can remember I thought that was my name. My father only called me Jasper once. That was right before the lights went out. I remember holding his hand as he choked up blood and said it...Alec grumbled but didn't say nothing else. Once all the wood was ready, it was stored inside a barn to keep from getting wet. They carried some logs inside, this time I was able to sneak behind them. I slunk against a wall to watch. To snoop at a home, I wish I grew. It was chilly inside. The logs were added to the fireplace immediately. Alec was told to go on upstairs. He clunked up some rustic steps. While the old man tossed himself into a chair. A grim look etched plainly. It must have hurt to tell him no. He looked gaunt and crusted with dirt. A cold winter with no good food.The mother came in from a small room off the kitchen. A little girl trotting behind her. She ran to her daddy and he perked up. She requested that he read to her. So he tugged her into his lap and did so. As he hushedly told a tale of a castle and a princess. My thoughts drifted. Something new on my mind is kids of my own. It could be possible now... at least I hope, a baby might settle her ass down. Who am I kidding? Alastronìa ain't ready. She's still a baby herself in a lot of ways. I just. I want her to calm down. To relax. It's hard when damn near the whole world is at her neck. That and this damn war. I never thought I'd get back on the battlefield. I already did that once for her. But this time. This is for her homeland. Despite how timid she is. I know she's homesick. The way she lit up at showing me that damn rat. It breaks my heart to know how far she must fight to get there. How much she has lost to bring it back. The little girl was sound asleep. The fire cracking. The mother sat close as she knitted what must be a blanket. She was quiet. So was he. Her back was to him. From the angle of the glow hitting her face I could see a tear shed. He coughed. She froze. Her back was straight. He leaned forward and drug out a hanky to spit blood. He must be dying. She bitterly called out to him. He refused her help.

-I don't understand.- she huffed.

-We can't afford to waste any money on herbs. We can barely feed our children. JorJette. I am fine. It's just a cough.-

-August. I have seen the blood.-

It was quiet once more. After a while, he rose and carried the little girl upstairs. All while she fell to pieces. Sobbing silently so as to not roust the hungry children. If I had to guess it's probably lung cancer. He never returned. She stayed up knitting away. With each loop, she said a prayer. Knotting her blessings and magic into it. Footsteps crept downstairs. It was Jane. She snuck past her mother into the night. I chose to follow after. I wasn't surprised to find that this was a secret love meeting. We were at the edge of the property. A round-faced boy with pink cheeks was holding a lantern as Jane ran to his side. Their embrace was warm and innocent. They walked hand and hand to the barn. I didn't need to follow to know what happened. They emerged with messy clothes and flushed faces. He waited until she was out of sight to leave the land. This time I was able to witness the sun rise over that witch hovel. The chill was rough. I trudged back to the cottage to press my face against the cold window to find Jane and her mother huddled close. JorJette was nursing a red welt on Jane's cheek. While her father shouted in a language I didn't understand. Items were flying around the room as he raged about another mouth to feed. Blood spewed from his cheeks as he cursed and fell holding his chest. Jane shouted out to her brother who was standing in the corner out of sight. I heard him shout to his father. - You dare raise your hand. She's a lady. Remember your lessons? You told me no man shall ever hit a lady.- The father was finally able to breathe. He coughed up more blood as he rolled around on the floor and called to the lord. Begging for forgiveness for his daughter's sins. Begging for forgiveness of his.

Alec and Jane were ordered to take the little ones outside. They didn't waste time. I couldn't decide whether to stay or if I should follow the twins. I found myself being caught up in my memories. She collected her husband and placed him in a chair. He pleaded for her forgiveness. She held his head to her womb and told him she understood he didn't mean it. That it's the sickness. That it's reaching his mind. She begged him to let her help. Finally. He agreed. That witch did something that made my hair stand on end. He collapsed to the floor with a broken neck and was levitated to the empty table. I didn't want to see anymore. I dashed after the twins and found Alec alone with the two little girls. They were chasing after him with sticks as if he were a beast they were meant to slay. I understood this boy more than anyone. It was rough tearing myself away to go after the girl. I found myself glancing back to watch Alec be a big brother and shed a tear. I never did see my ma or my sister again. I thought about it.

Running away from my newfound 'family', more like my slaver. I was captive to Maria. My gifts made me the most important. Which meant the most prized, watched, and kept toy. When I was first made. The attraction was intense. Yet I was never truly loved by her. I was manipulated into slaughtering entire... I did anything for her and when push came to shove. As I said before. Letting Peter and Charlotte go free was the beginning of the end for her and me. It was the first sign of weakness. The first sign that I wasn't man enough for her. If I wasn't her beast. Then I would be nothing. I was demoted from her right hand to simply being her errand boy all while she fucked and bled many men dry. Some women too. My heart was ripped to pieces until I didn't feel a damn thing. Peter coming back for me. It saved her. I was this close, oh buddy, I mean this close! To ripping her head clean off her pretty shoulders. I had grown mad with envy and thirst for power. I wanted the army for my own ends and I was fucking willing to take it.

I shook my head and raced. Trying to outrun the pictures flashing in my mind. I wasn't prepared to find Jane crying in that meadow she once played so joyfully. She was shouting at the retreating figure of the boy that knocked her up. Calling after him. Demanding that he marry her. That he do right by his child. He raced away as a set of flames coursed his trail. They stopped just before engulfing him. She collapsed to her knees and begged. Yet he was gone. Leaving her alone. She lay there in the snow. Shivering near to death. Until her brother came to collect. He carried her home. Where their mother was waiting for them. The small children weren't in sight. They must be in bed. I followed them back inside and saw that their father was still dead on the table. Jane was laid down on the floor. Her head cradled by the hands of her brother. He wept and glanced at his father's corpse.

-Mother. Is there truly no other way?-

She didn't answer him. She just prepared several herbs in a pot. One I knew well. It was always hanging about in brothels. Queen Anne's Lace. Alec forced his eyes towards the ceiling as Jane woke from her sleep and struggled against his tight grip.

-Child, you have given us a way to help your father. You must understand.-

-I can change his mind! I love him, this is our child! Please, mother! Don't do this. I beg of you to just give me another chance. -

-I can give you until sundown tomorrow but you know as well as I do. That boy is not meant for you. You'd be trapped in a loveless marriage. With a child, you'd grow to hate as it's the chain that bonds you to him. Your lover hasn't been born.-

-I don't care for your fortunes. I care for... how long does Papa have?-

-I've given you until sundown. Your sisters are with auntie Mary. Rest up.-

Alec helped his sister up from the floor. For a moment there they just stared each other down. There was no animosity but understanding. If Jane couldn't bring her lover to their side. She'd have to sacrifice. She's unwed and they can't afford to feed the new babe. They both limped away. All while their mother spoke words over a simmering pot. Churning and praying. I inched upstairs to find the children all slept in the same area. Cots were separated and their clothes were hung up along the wall. Jane and Alec were lying next to each other. He held her as she wept. He promised her he'd help her. That he'd speak with the boy's father. Technically since August was belly up. Alec has now become the man of the house. It's his duty to protect his family. She begged him not to. She didn't want him to be forced. She said it was her duty to do this herself. He agreed to her plea. The dawn came. The cottage was quiet as a mouse. Both Alec and Jane rose with fear in their hearts. They shuffled around. Alec snagged his clothes and left out of the room to allow Jane space to bathe. I noticed how frail she was as she stripped her nightgown from her body and stood in front of a fogged mirror to gaze at her belly. There's no telling how much time went from that night to this day but from the size of her bump. I'd say a few weeks. Possibly a month. It's still early, it's possible that she's just... she burst into tears and the mirror cracked from how distraught her magic had become.

A shout from downstairs sprung her into gear. She quickly scrubbed grime and dirt from her body and then proceeded to place the nicest dress she had on. It was handmade and dyed a pretty cerulean blue. It complements her eyes wonderfully. She adorned herself in beaded jewelry and tied her hair back from her face. The last touch was a pair of handmade leather slippers. They matched the Sunday best dress. She's a beautiful girl but still a child. Carrying a child. Going to a child to request that he do right by his seed. Each step she took to that door made my heart rise to my throat.

For a moment. She stopped. Her hand caresses a glass doorknob. There was something scratched on the surface. A protection rune of some sort. She turned her head directly to where I was standing. Her tear-stained eyes bore through my soul but reacted as if she couldn't see. As if she were staring right through my body. As if I were a ghost. She left in a hurry. It took me longer to bring myself to leave. With each clunk, I made down those rickety steps my heart ached for Jane. I collapsed to my knees at the bottom of them as the memory changed once again. I hadn't expected to see the sight I saw. Jane was laid out on the floor, in her dress, covered in blood and debris. JorJette was screeching after her son as she coddled her beaten and bruised baby girl. What happened to her? Who would? I didn't need to ask. Her lover beat her until that babe in her belly ruptured. My eyes trailed the evidence. He couldn't have done this himself. He had help. Alec... I took off after him like a lightning bolt. I didn't need to run far. We were in the meadow. I could see him off in the distance. I called out to him. My words died in my throat. The memories are flickering at higher speeds. My head was throbbing as I watched him dragging something past me. It wasn't moving and was in the shape of a teenage boy. He struggled with the dead weight of Jane's now soon-to-be deceased lover. I followed behind him until we reached the cottage. I was too afraid to go inside. To watch what I know will come next. To know that because Jane's child was brutally murdered by its father. He will now serve as the offering. As it is a life for a life.

I stood out in the cold all night while screeching and chanting echoed. Strange lights flickered and burst from those windows. Till morning when the sun rays touched down on the thatched roof. The front door peaked open and August exited. He was as naked as he had entered this world. His knees fell into the snow. His head touched down and he called on the lord in forgiveness for his wife's sin. She had taken the Lord's will away from him. Their son had taken his first life. Their daughter had bed without wedlock. He knew they were destined to be sent straight to hell. For they had forsaken him. They had brought evil onto them by utilizing the darkest art known as necromancy. As he wallowed in his pity. I could see Jane staring out that same window I had once looked in on. That innocence. That light. That joy. Is gone. A pounding in my ears thumped like a drum. It forced a jump out of me at every thunk. It was the sound of war. The sound of vengeance. The sound of death marching to the door of the Campbells. Behind me, a glow emanated. The glow of torches flickering. The shouts of an angry mob beckoned the blood of the Campbells to run freely as the boys did on their floor. I stood as a statue as they raided that cottage. Dragging them kicking and screaming. Pleading and begging. Before they were strung up in the trees August and JorJette sang a song that made the sky cry. Her last words gurgled in her throat while her lovers didn't. You see. Her spell worked a little too well and he couldn't die. He twitched and kicked and shouted. No matter how many rocks they tossed at his flailing body. No matter how many attempted to set him ablaze. He just wouldn't die. It struck such fear in their hearts that they didn't bother to hang the twins. Oh no. They spun up a pyre of wood. The same wood chopped up by August and Alec. Hoisted them up high and cursed them as witches that must be sacrificed in the lord's name. That they did. But just as the fire began to kiss the bottoms of their feet. A gust of wind blew and all those villagers were broken toys. A scream bellowed out and flames ate the land. Turning everything in its path to ash. I was whisked away right back to that meadow where they were playing freely.

————————————

Alex's pov.

It was silent in the kitchen. The only sound heard was Jane as she finished up the last spoon full of soup and burped nonchalantly. I tore my eyes from her profile and glanced around the room. Esme was perfectly still. Holding a chilling canister filled to the brim. Her eyes were wide and filled with red tears. As for Willow. She refused to even look her way. Her hand was clutching her lower belly as she shook. Overwhelmed by her emotions. What did I feel after hearing such a tale? A sense of kinship. As I too had been bitten by a lover.

"Is that mine?"

"Oh. Um. Yes, dear."

Esme rushed around looking for a lid. Jane was perplexed as to why she was acting so weird but didn't say anything. Willow excused herself from the room. I was tempted to follow her but thought it better to stay near Frankie. I pulled out my phone to check the time and felt anxious. I should go check on Rosalie.

"Hey, do you mind coming with me downstairs? I'd rather keep an eye on you." Jane amusedly giggled at me.

"What makes you think I'd harm you?"

"You shot an arrow at my head."

"I was under orders. I'm not anymore."

"So if we can't save your brother. You'll just waltz right out of here?"

"I have no doubt in my mind. You'll be able to save Alec. My mother said so."

"You said that already..."

She hopped off the stool and held her hand out for me to take. I eyed it suspiciously. Yet placed mine in hers. She brought it to her mouth and spit into it.

"I hereby submit that I won't harm you."

The spit began to pop and sizzle until it dried. I lifted my eyes to meet hers. I found nothing but sincerity in those pools. A peep from Esme broke our hands-free. I absentmindedly wiped my hand on my clothes and turned to exit the room with a deep blush beginning to peak in my cheeks. Light footsteps followed me out. We walked in tandem. The electricity went out. I took a deep breath and knew the bullshit was pushing me to the edge.

"The exorcism has begun."

"How can you tell?"

Jane pulled me along. She seemed to be able to see just fine in the pitch darkness. Her unattended hand lit up. I thanked her.

"You're welcome, Princess."

No one was around. It was just us two walking the halls. Occasionally I'd feel a cold chill signaling a spirit nearby. We made it to the entrance of the dungeon without anything happening. As I attempted to take the first step down below. Jane barred me. She sent down several tendrils of flames and a wail burst.

"Stay behind me."

A tone exited that could only be taken as an order. I was taken aback but didn't argue. We descended. Once the coast was clear of any more harmful spirits lingering I was allowed to take the lead once more. The cells were filled to the brim with sick people moaning and groaning. Willow had relocated here as well as Carlisle. They were bustling around helping to keep people calm while the medication was being brewed by several witches. My first action was to find my sister. Emmet and she were in the same cell as Irina and Tanya. It was awkward with Frankie being so close to my side. I immediately checked her vitals and informed Emmet of the progression of the ghost sickness.

"Is there anything you can do?"

"I can slow it down but until the potions are complete. No. I'm so sorry Emmet."

"Don't say you're sorry! Fix her! You're supposed to be some..." he huffed and puffed but settled down. I wasn't sure why until I turned to see Jane upset. Her piercing gaze was daring him to act out.

"It's alright brother. I'll do all I can."

I said without removing my eyes from her. She understood my need for her to back down and scooted further away. Tanya relaxed and timidly asked me to check Irina. I did as requested. She's running a high temperature. I ordered Jane to assist me in retrieving some ice. She nodded and quickly left my side. Tanya immediately grabbed my hand in a vice. I winced but didn't complain.

"I don't know when more will be ready!"

"Watch out for her. Do you hear me?"

The urgency and fear in her voice shook me to my core. I simply nodded in agreement and Tanya released me. I gave a second glance at Irina and felt guilty.

"I never intended to hurt her."

"Oh please. Laurent was a beast and had it coming. My sister is better off without."

"No love lost I see."

"She was the one that loved him. We merely tolerated him. Unfortunately, I knew it wouldn't last. He wasn't ready."

"If they were mates, would that matter?"

"Fate has a funny way of coming around when you're least prepared for it too."

"I'm sorry for my attitude sissy, I just need her to be okay. You know?"

"I know man. I swear I'll do all I can. I'll be right back. I'm gonna check on some others and I'll make sure they both get the first dose as soon as it's ready."

"Thank you."

Tanya continued to look at me strangely, while Emmet had his eyes pinned on Rosalie's face. My heart aches for him. In all honesty. There isn't much I can do. It's an illness deriving from necromancy. Any spells I may try. Could make it worse. The best bet is to simply wait. I regretfully left their cell and wandered off to find Carlisle. He was rushing around like a chicken with its head snapped off. He's been avoiding going down to see them. I made sure to inform him that Rosalie was in dire need and so was Irina. He tensed.

"I'm doing all I can. Um. I'll."

"I know. Emmet needs you right now. He's not ok and dad. He's scared."

"Alright."

Um. Tanya wants to know when more of whatever that stuff is will be made?"

"I'm aware. She's made it well known. I just. Oh alright. I'll. You take care of this and I'll go take care of Emmet. Oh. Alice needs you. She's been fretting about somewhere around here."

He rushed off without so much as a goodbye. Before I left to find my other sister. I just stood there. Eyeing all the cells. The scent of body odor was heavy. Fear permeates from every pore. Pale fluorescent lights flickered. A distant rumble snagged my attention. I didn't like the sound. It reminded me of the spirits outside clambering to feast on our souls.

"Here's the ice you wanted."

The sound of Frankie made me jump out my skin. I was immediately being checked over for sickness. I brushed her hands away and told her I was alright.

"Are you sure?"

"How long do you think it will take for them to penetrate the wards?"

"Do you want the truth or a lie?"

I walked off. My pace began to pick up as I dashed upstairs to find Alice. There's a reason she needs to see me. Jane was quickly on my tail. I pounded up the stairs, my heart thumping loudly. As I burst through the door I found that candles were floating about to light the way. I was instantly reminded of the orbs at Blackbriar and felt a sense of relief.

I imagine there's something in the air to induce that sensation. I released a breath that I had been holding and stumbled off to the ballroom. All was well. A movie was playing. The people that hadn't been sick were inside a bubble of protection. I couldn't figure out what the issue was. Until I heard the sound of hushed bickering. I immediately spotted Alice and Kate. They were near the barricaded windows. I sent Jane off to place up some more runes and sigils of protection. She understood that she was meant to stay as far away from Kate as she possibly could. Rather than immediately interrupting. I found it prudent to watch their body language. I noticed how close they were. Alice was more aggressive than Kate was in the argument. I could see that Kate wanted nothing more than to leave. Someone has an avoidant attachment. I carefully stepped on over. They immediately quieted down as if they hadn't just been deep in a lover's spat.

"Yo, what's up? Dad said you needed me?"

Kate took this time to slink off. I politely asked that she stay on this side of the room. She chuckled to herself.

"I won't touch her. Yet."

"I mean it."

"Yes, Princess." I didn't miss the grumbles under her breath.

"I just wanted to see how you were feeling. Um. How is everything upstairs? I haven't been able to check on Jasper."

"I wouldn't know. I'm not exactly allowed to be upstairs helping. I can run up there and go see. How is? Everything?"

"Oh that. Um. It's. I just don't understand." Alice burst into tears. I collected my sister into a tight hug.

"I'm sure she's just nervous."

"I've seen us together! She just refuses."

"Have you ever thought that it's fear? If you think about it. Kate has lost people she loves before. It could be why."

"I've never thought of it that way."

I'm aware. Once my sister has a vision. She tends to be one-track-minded. From my understanding. They are to be mates.

"I'd give her some space, allow her time to understand what you are to her. "

"I should be telling you that."

"What do you mean?"

"How are you feeling?"

"Alice I don't have time for riddles."

"Go check on Jasper."

I was squeezed extra tight and told that everything would work itself out. I rolled my eyes and went on about my business. Although now that she set my mind on my husband. I was starting to worry. I didn't waste time and headed on up. The third floor was deathly cold and filled me with dread. I was surprised to find that Frankie was already up here waiting.

"I figured this would be the next stop."

"Have you been inside?"

She shook her head no. Probably just as scared as me. Welp. No time like the present. We both entered together. Edward was still hanging out upstairs. He was most intrigued to see Jane with me.

"I've sworn to not harm her."

"I see that." He called down to her.

I left her looming protection and cautioned near the circle. Inside it was Jasper and Alec but also Magnus. His eyes were closed as he continuously recited some words I didn't understand. While Elizabeth standing nearby and was watching them like a hawk. I dared to move away and inched closer to Frost.

"Where's Clara?"

"We got into an argument."

"Is this about the baby?"

She frazzled and things lifted into the air. I'll take that as a yes. They went down.

"I apologize. I'm tense."

"It's pretty quiet in here."

"He's in a trance."

"I see that."

"The worst hasn't begun yet."

"Is my mate ok?"

"I'm checking his vitals kitty. He's fine. His thoughts are disjointed but he's not being harmed. Alec is, he's stuck."

"Thank you," Jane called out to Eddie.

"Does that mean Jasper is stuck too?"

"He's not being harmed."

"Yet you mean."

Edward kept quiet but his eyes lingered on Jane. Who was inching closer to me. Why is everyone acting so strange? She's being surprisingly helpful, oh, well I can see how that would ring up as suspect. Elizabeth didn't make a fuss about Jane standing on the other side of her.

"Have you seen him?"

"He's around. So is her father."

"I told Clara he wouldn't stay away."

"Eric can handle your mother."

We each fell under silence. The seriousness of that wasn't taken lightly. She's right. My father can handle himself. So can hers... I'd hate for them to cross paths. Especially with my mother under the same roof. A wave of nausea hit me. Jasper, you better be alright! Momma. I pray to any god that can hear me. Get recked! Edward chuckled to himself.

———————————

Eric's pov.

I felt like an idiot standing here left behind by my lovesick child. I shook my head as I recalled when I left my home. Running from the safety of childhood right into the cold hard world. I had nothing but a few changes of clothes, some cash, and a belly full of Ma's cookin. As I snuck into the night. I hopped on my bike and disappeared...a ding on my phone snagged my attention. I didn't need to dig it out to know the text was from Alex. She told me where she ran off to. Not like I needed to be told. I remember. Oh, I remember what love felt like. The rush of the heat in your cheeks. The thump in your chest. It hurts like nothing else. Ambrose appeared at my side in disappointment. I wasn't fazed by his sour. I knew a lecture was coming.

"You keep allowing her to disappear."

"Brother, how do you suggest I handle this? Hmm? With a heavy hand? Or should I allow her to come to me."

"Point taken."

"Shouldn't you be after her?"

"Ha. No. I'm right where I'm needed. So are you." He pointed off to the distance. A raggedy car was trudging up to us. Music bumped through some decent speakers. It stopped and two individuals got out.

"Fuckin aye."

"I do believe our luck is turning."

The individuals making haste were none other than my beloved and missing sister-in-law and who I presume is her brother, Adrian. He's a mean-looking fella. His blind eyes were pinned on me as they passed. Ambrose and I followed behind them. With each step toward the front door. The energy pooling around Clara was noxious. I let out a small chuckle.

"Shut up... where is she?"

"Upstairs."

"Why am I surprised."

"I'd answer that but I'll be respectful."

"How bad is it?"

"She isn't happy your wife is here."

It got quiet. Adrian and I both laughed. We both were given the evil eye.

"It's Magnus."

"My bad man."

"It's all good. I didn't expect you to be so."

"Dead. Me either."

"Who dug you up?" Clara cut in.

"My child."

"That little girl."

"She ain't so little anymore."

"You're right. She's not!"

"It don't matter now. I lifted the contract."

"Do you know the...Thank you." She hissed.

"You're the one that signed." Ambrose taunted with glee. Simply because of a mistake of words that shouldn't be said to a fae. Clara never learned the rules.

"Who was speaking to the help?" Magnus defended. This was a threat. As I'm sure my new found sibling knew them well.

"Do you have it? Or not?!"

Whatever Ambrose was barking over must be in the briefcase held tightly in Magnus's hand. He moved it closer to his body. I didn't have long to ponder as we were transported inside and dumped into Elizabeth's laboratory. The fight begins.

"Well look who decided to show up."

"Elizabeth. I'm not in the mood."

"I don't care. Where have you been?!"

I dispersed and found a seat to watch. The sounds of them bickering was music to my ears as it reminded me of the good ol days. They drifted into the background as I spied my brother-in-law perched at a desk. I noticed some nice jewelry hanging off his wrists as he set up shop.

"How kind. I crafted them myself. It would be ill-advised to steal one."

The resident klepto inched near me. He tossed a handmade booklet onto my workstation. It's some homework Ambrose has been putting together for Alex. It made me nostalgic for my old man's lessons. Let's see what she's meant to be learning instead of doing... well, Isabella. Ah. Seelie and Unseelie. I'm fond of this teaching. It's the two courts of the otherworld. Not only that, but the classification of the two types of fae. Which generally just means are they malevolent or benevolent in nature. I decided to lean back in my chair to read.

"Learning something new?"

"Just keeping busy."

"How much do you know?"

"Enough to do your job."

Ambrose chuckled in disagreement. He's probably right. I didn't listen all that well to Seamus and his stories. Let's see. Ambrose described, The Seelie fae, as fae that live in peace with humans, warn those who have accidentally offended them, and return human kindness with favors. Still, any fae belonging to this court would avenge insults and could be prone to mischief. While the Unseelie? Are described as the darkly-inclined fae. Unlike the Seelie Court, no offense is deemed necessary to bring down their assaults upon humans. As they have a general disdain for them. I smirked. If we're honest, both courts can't stand humans. They destroyed our lands with a disrespect toward the natural order of life.

"They are integral to our way."

"You mean their souls are integral."

"That too. But you have to admit they are crafty creatures. So entertaining."

In my current state. I am no longer considered Seelie. My child is on her way to my sentence as well. Ambrose bristled. I ignored him and turned the page. Ah. I see the young Alice has illustrated wonderfully. As my eyes passed a drawing, I mentally inquired of which were among the Seelie. To name a few we have the Daoine of course, as well as, Hobgoblins, Brownies, and Bannicks. Leprechauns, Dwarves, Changelings, and Elves ... can go either way but typically are Seelie. Selkies, Kelpies, Pixies, Fairies, Dryads, Nymphs and Naiads, Satyrs, Hinds, Fauns, and Huldras. Spriggans, Unicorns, and Merfolk. There are more Unseelie than Seelie, to start? Well, the most known would be Demons.

"They aren't Fae!"

"I was taught they are Unseelie."

"That old man didn't see what they did."

"What Lilith has done, doesn't negate blood. They are Unseelie and formidable. It would be best. If She knew that."

"Then you teach her about them."

"I will."

He huffed but didn't argue any further. Along with demons, there are Banshee, Cat Sídhe, and Cu Sídhe. Then you've got the Dullahan, Lamia Cyclops, Glaistig, Ghosts and Ghouls, Trolls, Giants, Gargoyles, Centaurs... some are Seelie, most are not. Boggarts, Treants, Goblins and Gremlins, Orcs and Ogres. Nixies, Sirens, and Sprites. Manticores, Phookas, Dragons, Drakes, Wyverns, and Salamanders. Werewolves and Vampires and beasts created by the hands of Fomorians and that bitch Lilith.

"You missed quite a few Seelie and Unseelie."

"Do you know how many fae there actually are?"

"Fuck no."

"Then shut up."

"What are you two squabbling about?"

Magnus called over to us. As I turned my head to eye him. I saw the briefcase out in the open. Whatever was inside was heavily protected from us by iron and silver. Curious. I gruffly replied to him.

"I'd rather know what's in that case."

"I'm sure you would."

"How come I've never heard of you?"

"Ask your wife."

Now. Normally. I'd discipline anyone who has the gal to disrespect my late mate. However from his tone. He was being sincere. With all she's done I didn't have the strength to defend her name.

"It's a stick." He revealed in apology.

"A stick?"

"Yep. Something he needed."

Magnus nodded to Ambrose. When I swiveled to confront my brother. He was absent. That's typical of him lately. Hopefully, he's gone to protect my child.

"Alastronìa will come to no harm."

As I slowly swiveled my chair to view this. Magnus. He was admiring said stick. It was strange. It most definitely was a stick but not one of this world. The longer I held it in my view. I desired to hold it. To caress its dead veins. To possess it!

"No fae can resist the charm."

Magnus carefully placed it away. As the lid was shut tight. The call dissipated.

"Where did you get that... stick?"

"We stole it from some of your kin. Damn demons bout stopped my heart. Too bad it's broken... I believe you know it as."

"The spear of Lugh," Clara called out.

"You stole the staff of Moses?!" Frost said appalled." And brought it. Here?!"

She devolved into shouting in Latin. Clara and Magnus got cursed out so bad she was blue in the face. I just cackled.

"Are you finished?" Magnus said boredly.

"Boy, do I look like I'm done?!"

"Clara, get your wife before I do."

"Will you both quiet down, you'll wake the dead."

"You'll do more than that?!"

"Elizabeth. Please lower your voice."

"Fine!"

She tossed herself in a chair and muttered under her breath. Clara mocked her silently. They act like children at times.

"Man my sister acts like that all the time!"

"Magnus. I will turn you into a gnat."

"Let's get back on track. So that stick is one of the keys to the otherworld, but it's broken. Any idea where the other is?"

Both Clara and Magnus were quiet but their body language was loud as can be. They both were angled towards Frost.

"Elizabeth, do you know where it is?"

"There was a rumor, that my father uncovered a genuine artifact of Christ. I don't know what it was and I don't know if it's true. But I won't help you look."

"Lizzie."

"No. I won't. This land has been peaceful. You go waking him. You'll wake it!"

"You don't have a choice. Fate does as she does and she's coming tonight!"

As the seer in the room spoke his tale. A ghastly scream burst from the floor below. Clara and Elizabeth were the first to react with a frightened jump. While Magnus stood proudly with a cane in hand. His nail tapped against the golden figurehead. While I. My heart thumped for the first time since I've risen from my grave. There's only one reason that would be.

"Make sure you tell her you love her. You'll want to fight the urge. Don't."

Magnus waved his hand and I was sent elsewhere. Where I landed was somewhere underneath the earth. It was dark and dank. I presume the catacombs. I was up from the stone floors but trapped. In my panic to be near her. I smashed and thrashed about clumsily. The room had no doors or exits. Yet again. Here I am. Imprisoned. There's only one way I'll see her. I laid back down and prepared for rest. My eyelids wouldn't close. I'd try but eventually, I'd burst them open. My gut was churning in knots. Damn. I'm scared. I'm real scared and I can't shake it. Come on now. I'm not a damn pansy. Tears dribbled out. Whew. It's weighing heavy.

Alright. I can do this. I closed them and tried to picture her how she was just before it all went to shit. It was the Fourth of July and we were out on the terrace. The grill was smoking. Ice-cold beers. Elizabeth was happy and Clara was quiet. Alex, well, my sweet lil girl was in her playpen. Taunting that damn ugly cat. Claire. She was sitting in my lap. Her head leaned against my chest. It was cool with a breeze blowing. It was gonna rain later. But at that moment. All was good. Except for one thing. Claire was spacey that day. She was normally but excessively so that day. I think she knew... she knew before any of us did that my time was almost up. When my heart began to fail. She didn't take it well. She was somber. Less bright. But there was one moment. Right near the end, I couldn't quite shake. As I was dying, I was less lucid. But I think I knew when that thing she is now began to take hold. One night. I woke from my fog of drugs and found her sitting next to me.

She was rocking Alex to sleep. Singing her a lullaby. It's one I ain't ever heard her sing before. One I never wanted to hear again. It was dark and dreary sounding. I didn't think she should be singing like that over our child's head. I never did get to ask where it came from. As I tried to remember the melody my soul detached from my rotting corpse. I said a prayer. It was one my momma taught. There's nothing quite like calling on the Lord's name after being silent for years. Alrighty then. Let's fuck up some shit. Escaping this time was easy peasy. I was indeed down in the catacombs. Much further than I had ever been before. It stank down here. I don't want to know why. I'm sure it's some experiment or dead bodies...hmm. No time for a snack. I ascended myself to the floor above. Here it was obvious I wasn't the only soul wandering. Hosts of the dead were awake. A few were frantic, while others. I was sent away for a reason. I imagine it's to find that damn stick. My best bet? Is to interrogate the residents of the castle. If only I knew which spirit to converse with. I mean. Most of them don't seem aware. Ow. Did something just hit me? A red ball had smacked into the back of my head. The culprit? Some goofy buck tooth kid.

-Where are your parents?-

-Where ever yours are.-

-You gotta smart mouth kid. I was like that too. I'm looking for a stick. Have you seen one? It's ugly and sort of special."

He ran off. For a moment I believed I was meant to follow. However, I saw why he ran. Big daddy Odd had waltzed downstairs. I've heard stories about him. The spirits around vanished as he neared. He was panicked and violently attacked anyone that was too gone to move away. I slunk behind to follow him. Ah. He's trying to leave. His child's wards are too strong even for him to break through. As he paced the front hall. I spied spirits outside. They were not happy and coming in droves moaning and screeching a name. Campbell. I'm familiar with it. The bloodline is ancient. I believe if I remember my old man's stories right. They were the ones that stole from us.

-You there, muscle man. Where did you come from? I know every soul here.-

I couldn't help but hold back a laugh, Elizabeth's father sounded like what I imagined how the founding fathers spoke. All prim and proper for no damn reason. Just stuffy. His threads didn't help him. I knew better than to show my hand. I doubt he'd just tell me where the stick is.

-I'm looking for my kid. I was just upstairs and then. I'm not sure.-

He chuckled to himself.

-Ah, yes. The curse has struck again. Well, sorry to break it to you lad. You're dead. Now come help me with this.-

-You sure you want to leave out that way?-

-Scared of a tussle? Bollocks, you're right. Come with me. I could use a man with your stature... I'll help you find your child. But first, we must kill one of mine.-

I'm not shocked he wants to off Lizzie. I mean she did kind of fuck up his face. What the hell? I can knock out two birds with one stone. Kill him and get the stick. Just as he neared me with his hand stuck out to shake. I felt it. The pull of the magic coursing through that ugly stick. Our cold hands clasped tightly in greeting. He spoke his name. I glared right into his dead eyes and lied to him.

-Philip. I had a boy with that name. I drowned him. Despite how many children have come from my loins. My last is certainly my favorite. Such a shame. Well, this shall be fun. Let's get on with it.-

Before I had a chance to formulate a plan. I caught sight of another soul lingering. One that definitely shouldn't be here. Instead of allowing them to stay hidden. I called out to her. Poor Isabella was pissed. Archibald was curious and brought her near. I explained that she was my child. Which technically, that lie is sort of true. - Dad. Do you know who this is?- Isabella wasn't happy about being so close to Archibald. She physically kept her distance. Preferring to stand behind me.

-We shook on a deal, you have found her, now let's get on with beheading mine.-

-How do you plan on getting near her?-

Archibald Odd grinned. He moved much closer and glared me down with glee. Just before he disappeared from sight. He requested to know my name once more. When I didn't respond. I was left standing there knowing I had fucked up. He never told me about his kid being a woman. I exposed my loyalty and my hand. Shit.

-What just happened?-

-I fucked up and Elizabeth is in danger. That means I'm gonna need your help.-

-What do you need me to do?-

-His spirit is carrying a... stick. It's from the fae realm. It's incredibly powerful and it will attempt to tempt you to use it. I trust that you love her enough to fight that demon in your head and hand it to her.-

-You found another key, haven't you? I've heard of the sword... I have been ordered to obtain it before Alastronìa can.-

-We know where it is. Do you?-

-I just know to find Merlin.-

I didn't react at hearing how far along she is. I simply walked away from the girl.

-Where are you going?!-

-To say goodbye. You must find his corpse and steal the stick. I hope you prove me right Isabella, if not, I'll see you on the other side. So shall Alexandra.-

-Tell her...I'll be seeing you then.-

My eyes were filled with tears as I stared down the staircase that leads up to my demon. Each step towards it sent acid to my mouth. It curdled and thickened against my tongue. No matter how much I tried to swallow. It made the nausea worse so I didn't fight the urge to upchuck just as I placed one foot on the creaky bottom step. The bile was filled with blood and pooled into a clumpy mess of whatever I ate. I think it's a liver? I wiped my mouth and kept on pushing. A gradient of temperature changed until I could see my ragged breath in wispy curls. Chills ran down my spine. I was shaking in my boots. I had to stop and collect my nerves. So I slunk against the wall of that narrow hall. That song. It was dancing around my head. Clunking into memories of her and poisoning them of the goodness she held.

My teeth chattered as I whispered the lyrics. I couldn't place why it scared me. Yet it felt familiar, more than me hearing it that one time, it felt almost like a calling. A chant. A spell of some sort. I swam in my pity as I recalled that my child has been doomed to my legacy. We both chose partners with less than credentials to stand in that position. It seems to be a curse of our kind. It was magical while it lasted yet in the end. It is Lilith that wins. Her story is complicated. Whether you believe the Abrahamic iteration or the more ancient scrolls. Lilith wasn't always a demon but a beautiful woman. It wasn't until she refused to bow to another that a creature found her tantalizing and felt the need to take her as his wife. He promised the world at her feet. Riches upon riches. A kingdom. All it would take is the purging of her soul. Then she could rule by his side as queen. It took her nothing but a kiss to decide. I bet old Lucy was surprised when she played him and took the castle. He hadn't learned. Just as Adam. She bows to none.

I thumped my head against the wall in frustration, then crawled to the entrance of the library. As I passed through the wards. My eyes were pinned on the skin she was wearing. Some little boy. He was ashen and blue-lipped. An empty vessel. To his left sat my brother-in-law. Deeply in trance. A whimsical smile curled freely. His lids peeled open. His mouth moved and what exited was that damn lullaby. Hearing it in his lower register reminded me of the rumor that Lilith's king was a talented musician. No instrument was a match to him and his wailings of love. There were many a poet that were inspired but couldn't yet match his lyrics. I continued closer and the song got louder as if she were greeting me. Summoning me. By the time I was close enough to touch, I couldn't breathe without wheezing and coughing up blood. Its mouth opened in wait. I took the invitation and disappeared into the darkness awaiting. I emerged in a forest.

I was familiar with it. It's the one standing right outside the castle. I was mesmerized by the amount of yew hanging around. That tree specifically was hunted down just as much as the witches that utilized its branches. You see. This tree holds magic in its veins and was used to create wands. A conduit that amplifies the magic wielded. They were once abundant. A wand hasn't been seen or used since the banning of magical objects in Camelot. I was timid as I neared one to touch. I caressed its trunk and stole a berry. There were other trees used for this purpose but none were as strong as yew. Which made the wands rare and prized. The wood of yew was rumored to endow its wielder with the power of life and death, this of course could be said of all wands but yew retained a particularly dark and fearsome reputation of corruption of exceptional witches. I placed the berry between my lips and swallowed before continuing on my walk. I was made breathless as I took in how the sky was lit up with the brightest stars. I was standing at the edge of a meadow and I was reminded of why I must do this. To put my mate to rest.

A wafting of smoke billowed up high in the distance. I knew that's where she was. With each step towards it, my heart thumped loudly in my ears drowning out any sound. Past the meadow and deeper hidden in a thicket was a meager cottage. I was surprised to find Jasper alright standing at a window peaking inside. I didn't disturb him. I decided to simply watch. A time slip occurred and snowflakes dusted. He moved to wander around the back. I took this time to enter. I found her sitting in a chair rocking. She was disguised as a pretty dark-haired woman that held a resemblance to the blonde I saw eyeing my child back in that library. I took a seat on a stool near the fire. The lullaby was distantly drifting in a voice unlike hers. It was warm but too high. Almost like a twinkling bell.

-I didn't expect to see you.-

-You sold her soul.-

It got quiet. The flickering of the flames died out and a chill permeated.

-I had no choice.-

I refused to look at her. At the fake mask, she's choosing to wear in this game. A hand reached out to touch me and I recoiled. She respected my wishes.

-You must understand. I... I couldn't live without you. You did this to me! Yet you're unhappy with the result.-

A tear fell against my will. She's right. I bound her to me. In my passing... she would have felt an emptiness that nothing but I could settle. It's why I pray Isabella does what is needed instead of what's easy. I cut my eyes to see Claire instead of the lie. My nostrils flared in contempt.

-You sold our little girl to Lilith! Do you know the damage you have done?! You didn't see her. She's so broken I... you sold her. I trusted you. I trusted that you would be able to withstand the call. I am sorry for what I have done but that's nothing to what you did to our daughter.-

She fell from the chair onto her knees. Her arms were wrapped around me. Her head pressed against me. Pleading. My hand caressed her hair and I could hear the words, Magnus, entrusted to me.

-I'm sorry. - she kept repeating. I resisted the urge to yank her hair and banish her. I brushed my fingers through her pressed tresses as I once did in her times of need.

-I don't believe you. How can I? You have no true desire to even make it up to her. You only feel this way because you've hurt me. What you must understand is I will never choose you over my child. No matter how much I need you too. I will always love her more than I love you. As you were meant to. She needed you. You betrayed not just her but me too my love.-

I gripped her head as tight as I could while she sobbed and begged for me to take my words back. I refused to let up. She kept swearing her love to me. Swearing that she's sorry. Swearing that she will make it up to me. It wasn't working so she attempted to tempt me. To unzip my pants. She was sadly disappointed. I refused to look down into those eyes. The same ones that once got me to do anything she desired. The same ones that once held nothing but love and innocence. She screamed. I mean that type of scream that burns the back of your throat. Her nails clawed against my chest. Trails of blood poured from the scratches. Spit spewed as she cursed my name in vain. Cursing me for not choosing her. For ever loving me in the first place. It was soon silent. I finally expressed myself by collapsing into her. I finally saw the damage to her crushed skull. Her features were distorted. Blood profusely leaked and soaked my sweater. I caressed her deformed head and let out a gurgling moan. I rocked and wept with remorse. Through chattering teeth, I spoke a spell that would ignite her remains. I stayed until she was nothing but a pile of ash.

-I loved you, baby, I loved you so much...- I caressed the blackened ash and banished them from my sight. The second she was gone. Things began to change. It was expected. She was holding the poor boy together by threads. His subconscious is now his once again and he didn't look too well, to begin with. I gravely prepared to defend myself to escape. Once I opened the door. I was confronted with a scene that made my blood boil. Two bodies were swinging in the wind. One expressing the same grief I was. While the other? A perfect image of the woman my darling was impersonating. Two children bucked and screeched for her. Yet she couldn't save them. They were hoisted up on a pyre. The men beneath them shouting expletives weren't prepared for what came next. I was more than able to spot six vampires ripping them limb from limb. All while the seventh was mesmerized by the two children. He took it upon himself to save them with his kiss.

-Is it done?-

I couldn't speak so I simply nodded. Jasper took a spot next to me. We watched as the fire engulfed the land. He woke before I did, leaving me alone there. I was standing on dead land. The only thing left standing with me was a yew tree and a swinging body. I felt a sense of serenity that could only come as a storm brews overhead. I blinked and then suddenly I was back in that dank dark room with no way out. A scream exited that ripped my vocal cords to shreds. I lay there silently screaming her cursed name into the ether.

———————————

Jaspers pov.

This time waking up from the land of memories and dreams was much easier. Though it wasn't without its issues. For one. I completely forgot my mission, without the help of... I had hoped to spare my darlin the pain of hurting her mother and in the end, a fate much worse occurred. I couldn't bare to watch the crumbling of Eric. I felt it wrong of me to stay, but honestly, I was running from witnessing the crumble of myself. In my wallowing. I noticed that my mouth was awfully dry and I felt the need to drain anything in sight but I just lay there with my tongue pressed against the roof. The sound of chanting was loud enough to make me wince. My head pounding. I wasn't ready to sit up but I figured I best soothe the fear rumbling. When I attempted to I immediately felt dizzy and black spots appeared. A sturdy hand grasped my shoulder and the room settled.

-You alright old timer?-

-Heh, yeah I'm good. Where's Eric?-

-Mourning.-

-So he got out alive. That's good.-

-Just barely but yes he made it back. I'm glad to see you did too. -

-Was there ever a chance I wouldn't?-

-You should learn to not ask questions, you don't want to know.-

I was bemused by his very true advice and I would have laughed but as soon as I opened my trap a deep yawn exploded out. You'd think I'd be rested. I stretched and marveled at the surreality of what I was doing. This damn girl has made me human! I humbly spied my lady conversing with who I can only assume is Jane. She's all grown up now. I watched her soul get ripped out on a loop. It was the most gruesome part about my trip. Watching her curled up on the floor with nothing but hatred and regret in her eyes. It was torturous and unpleasant. Yet even then. I still timidly glanced over at Alec.

-What's taking so long? She's dead and gone. He should be alright now. Right?-

Magnus either hadn't heard me or he's refusing to answer. My foot began to shake in anticipation and nervousness. Come on. Come on, kid. He was still gaunt and frail. The deep dark sockets of grief under his eyes could pop the top of a bottle. His nose was crooked unlike in the dream. That must have happened during his struggle with those villagers. He fought the most. Kicking and screaming. Yet when it came time to be hoisted up. His fear died. His eyes were pinned on the remains of his mother and his father. His lips were blue. His cheeks sunk in. Even for a vampire, he looked particularly dead. I'm pretty sure Alec ain't waking up. I didn't like the implications of that.

-Neither do I.-

I couldn't help but huff and roll my eyes at my brother deciding to invade my mind. I tipped my head back and rest with my arms straight and my palms digging into the floor. He was looking down at me. He tossed a peanut right into my mouth and ordered I check over Jane.

-Huh.-

-So you see what I see.-

-How did that happen?-

-Not sure but she's been all over Alex.-

Jane and Alex were pressed against a bookshelf. A few tomes surrounded their feet. They were deep in conversation as if there wasn't a problem in the world. A grumbling above me sounded like jealousy, or is that some possession?

-I don't know what to make of it.-

-She's making friends.-

-With the devil!-

I pushed down the urge to argue about calling her that. He's right. That gentle girl died and what was reborn in her place could be called a devil. A ragged cough made my heart jump. It was Alec. Jane immediately left Alex's side and was pressed near her brother. She helped him sit up as he spewed and coughed up blood on his robe. Her hand was rubbing his back soothingly. Tears fell like raindrops as she thanked the lord. Magnus chuckled.

-You're welcome.-

He drug himself up from the circle and left us behind to consult with Elizabeth. It took only five steps. Five measly steps outside the circle of protection for things to get ugly. Magnus yelped as if he had been struck by the hand of god himself. I was up to catch him. His nails dug into my shoulders while he was trapped under a vision. His teeth clanked as he muttered the same words over and over. The yellow lights hanging above our heads went out. The room got chilly. The screams and shouts from the villagers below were silent. No one dared to move except for Alex. She braved up the stairs at the sound of an order. The voice was unfamiliar but it called out to my love.

"Mother has woken."

The words spoken weren't from Alex but from Alec. His frail frame shivered as he croaked. By that I mean he just went lax. His body was pressed against Jane's. She just rocked him and whispered words against his hair. A kiss was gently laid on his forehead before he burst into blue flames and was nothing but ashes. Jane trembled as she stood with her head high. She marched up the steps to stand with Alex as if she hadn't just lost her brother.

"He's at rest. No need to bask. But he was right. That is my mother and she's not happy. I suggest we get ahold of my family's book. It was hidden on the land. It may still be here. "

"Where might that be?"

"Outside. Near the tree where my mother died."

"That's just fucking great."

"Hush princess, I'll keep you safe."

That was smooth. Huh. I think this girl is trying to muscle in on my wife. I was perplexed about what to do with that.

———————————

Bella's pov.

I wasn't sure where to look. Eric said I have to find this stick. But where the fuck would it be? I mean if it's with that dude's body. That would mean I'm supposed to be searching for a place of rest. I think I remember seeing a graveyard out by the conservatory on my first night here. But there's no way out of the castle. At least not one that is present to the eyes. There must be another way out of here... I decided my best bet is to follow my gut and ran as fast as I possibly could to the dungeon. The catacombs must have a secondary entrance. Frost wouldn't have just one way out of this place. It's a damn death trap. As I found myself in the same area with several sick people I wasn't expecting to come across some of my family. I was watching Willow with interest. As she was consumed with a need to slave over a screeching woman.

I was reminded of our parallels. We both are in love with women that don't love us anymore. I'm not fooled by that glimmer of hope in her eyes that she has conned Clara into staying. I don't think to believe she does either. I mean what's the probability of them working things out? If Clara stays she will remain unhappy and with a child, she'd feel trapped but Willow is desperate. She's placed years of herself on a shelf all while trying to fill the shoes of Elizabeth Frost. How disappointing.

My feet moved on their own until I was standing outside a cell housing Rosalie. I couldn't hide my sorrow any longer. I wasted my time with them. Instead of fucking around with... Tara, I should have, it doesn't matter now. I giggled. She got what she deserved. During my moment upstairs when that thing that will no doubt take my place, set all those spirits ablaze? I pushed Tara into them. She wanted out and well that's exactly what she got. She was quite surprised. As she burned I could see just how hurt she was. I pressed tight against the bars to get a better view of my sick sister. Her skin was waxy and translucent from blood loss. An Iv was hooked up to replace what was lost. Her hair was stringy and lacked that shine it always has. She looked positively dead.

I felt cold and angered by the sight but knew if I didn't keep calm I'd experience those flickers again. It took me a moment to leave her and continue deeper into the catacombs. As I wandered in the darkness. I was hit with incessant intrusive thoughts about how I had betrayed myself by hurting the ones I love. How could Eric entrust that I wouldn't do it again? He's pretty much handing me the next key. Unless. There's something wrong with it. There has to be. He's not that trusting of me. I wonder how well Jane will do when it comes to his approval. She can't do much worse than me. In my sulking, I wandered up on Archibald. He was chipping away at some crack in the stone. He's just as desperate as Willow and I. He says he wants to kill his precious child but in the end. Once she's gone. What's holding him to this plane? Who's to say he could survive her death? He at least managed to blast a hole big enough to step through and it happened to lead right outside. I waited just long enough to not be noticed as I followed him into the night and in the arms of the great unknown. We were dumped out somewhere in the forest. I wasn't sure which direction the graveyard was and I for damn sure didn't want to stay near him. I so figured the opposite direction is the correct one.

Mind you. I truly have no desire to be here anymore. Before I was spotted and sent on this mission. I was trying to, but I can't seem to wake up from this dream. I'm stuck here until I guess Nergal pulls me out. I don't know. I can't feel him. He must be really drained from all his killing. I also sort of regret pushing Tara. I at least had someone to keep me company. Something else that's annoying is I can't seem to move as fast in this form. I'm just clunking around, where the hell am I?!

-Oy. You' s over there?!-

I about jumped out of my skin. It was some ghost. For a second I thought it was Elizabeth's dad. He's genuinely pretty gruesome. I mean the jaw and the slobber are enough but he just has this look in his eyes. They reminded me of James. I kept on moving and ignored the annoying. It caught up with me. I tried to outpace it.

-What do you want?!-

-You haven't seen a little girl around here have you? There's supposed to be a hanging. I even made some pies to sell. Is it over this way? I seem to have gotten lost. Poor me, oh, so sorry for being crass. I'm Millicent. What's your name?-

I stared at the puffy-faced woman. She was plump and dressed from a period that had long gone. As I realized what she said I felt the need to laugh. Did she say she made pies? To sell at the hanging?! But I'm a villain! Ugh. I just turned around and kept walking. She continued with me.

-There's no hanging!-

-You're a rude young lady.-

-You're the one stalking me.-

-I am lost!-

-Newsflash lady, so am I!-

-Well, maybe we could help each other. I remember my husband being. Hmm. We were with a group...are you sure you haven't seen my little girl? She's got a little green hood. I've been worried sick.-

-Lady. You're dead. There is no hanging!-

She stood there plain-faced and dumb. It took only a moment for her to flicker and disappear. I felt bad. It's not her fault. It's obvious she's stuck. I waited to see if she'd reappear but I think she's gone now. I continued on my journey to who knows where. I mean I could have at least been given a map or something. I wasn't aware that as I complained and stomped through the rubble. More ghosts had caught sight. You see. The first one sent my way was merely a distraction. These others were meant to capture me as bait. I was grateful that even while I was distracted. I had help. Ambrose whisked me off just as I was about to fall into a trap lain out.

-Well look who decided to show up!-

"Isabella. I am not in the mood. I have been lost all over this damn castle!" He was holding my wrist extra tight. I yanked free and he turned with fury. His chest was puffed out and his hair was all wild.

-What's going on?-

"The end."

-No shit! I mean how are we to...- I felt the need to keep what I knew to myself.

"Let's go!"

He didn't waste time marching off. I was glad that he had the sense to move us closer. We were heading towards a graveyard. I turned my head to the right to find that several spirits were on our tail. They were gaining speed. I attempted to bypass Ambrose and he nudged me back.

"Relax. They can't cross the hallowed ground."

-Well that's reassuring.-

"How are you feeling?"

-Do you honestly care?-

"Isabella I know how much you love her."

I stopped moving. I stopped breathing. I just stood there as if my legs had been filled with cement. I choked out a scream that sent several sleeping birds flying. Ambrose stood still. Refusing to look at me. Refusing to comfort me. Refusing to help. Yet it was him that placed me here.

"I would take it back if I could but I can't. It will pain you to watch her heal. To see her learn what love should be. I tried to warn you that you'd lose her but, of course, you believed that it wasn't possible. That she was just as in love as you were but you misunderstood desire and control for freedom and passion. I am sorry Bella. But you must let her go!"

-Let's just find the stupid stick.-

"It's in there. I can't go with you."

-You know I could just run off with it .-

"You won't get far if you do."

Ambrose didn't waste time vanishing into thin air. I could hear him off in the distance battling amongst the hungry dead. His grunts of victory and vengeance filled me with the strength to rise. Thick clouds were overhead. A light trickle of rain began to tumble into hysterics. I missed the rain. I missed the blue tint of a lost land once known as Forks. Yet I knew there was no point in reminiscing and kept moving towards a large colosseum. He's right. I had mistaken my possessive nature for love. I had trapped my queen in a cage and expected her to be content. This is my doing. This is my punishment.

I found that as I passed headstones. I saw that there were several families housed here. The Grimms. The Magdalenes. The Fultons. The Odds. Even a Morningstar. I stood at the headstone placed. This must be symbolic. Or maybe it's not. Here lies Chloe Morningstar. The young aunt that passed because her mother was murdered by love. That's a more poetic way of putting the tragedy such as what happened. The point is. All these that are buried, are necromancers. How quaint. As I stood still and stared. I felt a rumbling beneath my feet that set my heart a flutter. A skeletal hand poked up and snagged my ankle. I screeched and kicked myself free as more began to rise. I ran with all my muster through slippery mud as a witch chanted her beasts after me. I just barely made it to the Colosseum door. A horde was clambering after, while I attempted to open the rusted lock. During my panic, spiders as big as coins began to appear and climb over my body. I screeched in terror just as I was almost snatched and burst inside. Arms were stuck in the entrance as I slammed that heavy door shut. Even severed they moved and inched to grab hold of me. I stepped on them until they were dusted.

It was quiet now. Besides my heart thumping in my head and my heavy breathing. I was alone and in the dark. It smelt weird in here. Like a basement. Mold and mildew. So... I mean I'm looking for. Do I need to search all these? I blindly moved about just trying to find the light. The best I had to work with was a cobweb-covered lantern with no oil. That's fantastic, looks like I will be staying close to the walls and hoping for the best. That's exactly what I did until I tripped down a set of steps and fell into a pool of water. Coins were sitting in it. I could feel them and they gave off that wet penny smell. As I attempted to get out my foot scraped against a stone fixture. I used it as leverage. Once I was standing. I found that it was a sarcophagus. I ran my hands along the cold stone statue on top.

If I squinted I could just barely make out a name plaque. I ran my fingers over it and discovered Archibald Henbane Odd. Gotcha. Hmm. I wonder if Elizabeth is the one that set all this up for him. It's certainly elaborate housing for the dead.

I guess I better crack this open… no matter how hard I tried. The damn thing wouldn't budge. What made things worse was my feet kept slipping and I about conked my head. I'm sort of ashamed for thinking this but where the hell is Nergal? I could really use his help but I knew that it was awake. It would make this ten times harder. It would also allow me to not have to choose to do the right thing. I have a genuine problem with taking accountability for my actions. I'll work on it…probably not but at least I can admit it. In my frustration, I plopped down in the musty water. My fingers toyed with a coin as I pouted and pretended I didn't hear the skeletons climbing the roof of this hellhole. There's gotta be a way to do this. I was almost ashamed. I was staring at the coin attempting to see its face when an idea came to me. I snagged another and stood. It was simple really. I mean coins and death sort of go hand in hand if you know your history . I gently placed them on the eyes of the statue and then sunk in. The top popped with a moan and an abundance of dust burst out. It was still tough to move but the top thunked into the water with a crash and snapped. I hope Elizabeth won't be too upset. Ugh. What is that smell?! Oh, he reeked! Along with, are those, I was too afraid to touch them but they were flowers or herbs of some kind stuffed all around his rotting corpse… shouldn't he be. I won't pretend to understand magic. It was frightening to see that Archibald hadn't aged a day… his crispy arms were folded along his chest like a mummies. Sticking out of his knarly fingers was what I could only call. A wand. I could barely see it but it was ashen white and carved to perfection. On the hilt was gold. The longer I stared at it. The more I began to realize that I was inching my hand toward it. That I was going to grasp hold. I immediately yanked back and refused to lay sight. I can't touch it! I won't hurt her any more than I already have! Why would they send me of all people?! Come on! We don't have a choice! Think! Alright. I began to feel up old Archibald until I was able to grasp hold of his aged white blouse and ripped a piece off. It would be a flimsy separation between my flesh and the wand but it was enough. The only problem. Archibald was refusing to let go. I wrestled the dead man until he sat up. I mean quite literally. I had the wand but he wasn't happy about it! He hissed and moaned and coughed as he attempted to crawl from his resting place all while I was clambering and slipping around.

He wasn't the only one to rise from sleep. The other skeletons tucked safely away in the colosseum decided that I was to be a meal. I was surrounded and frankly, I was tired of fighting. So I just sat there. If this is the way I go. Fuck it. Of course, my desire to lie down and die would be ignored. I was saved. By whom? The wand. Did it just turned on? I don't know how but I was transported safely to the forest. I was just. Thanks, I guess? Magic is weird. I mean it's strange. For a while now all I wanted was to be able to wield it and now that I have it. Now that I have stolen it. I finally see why Alex hates it so much. All it's done is make me into someone I don't recognize. Someone I tried so hard not to be. Someone that hurts others for their ends. Someone that has turned their backs on all they believe in. For what?! Power. Control. These are façades. Farces. There is no such thing as it's clear we all are subject to fate and her fucking. I can't. No. Alex can't have this. No one can. I couldn't shake this feeling that the stick. The wand. It's not meant to be held by anyone. It's meant to be destroyed. Before I could snap it.

I was zapped and tossed into a nearby tree. The culprit? The one that has been behind the chaos that made all of this possible? Ambrose. He picked it up with a heavy heart and pointed that wand towards the sky. I knew that he had dominion over time. That he had some sway over its will. That he could push its limits. But what he was attempting was more than a few minutes or even a few years. I was mesmerized as he ripped through time and space. It spilled out of him in ripples and waves until the ground beneath him began to split and crack. My breath caught as I witnessed what must be akin to nebulas forming. Atoms colliding. Stars exploding. The sheer energy it took zapped him right out of this existence and took him into another. One deep in the past. One where I must face my love. One where she will either become what I must slay or she'll become the queen meant to slay me. I had a moment alone with that information before I began to flicker. I didn't fight it this time and found myself back in Volterra. The crown heavy.

"She's gone isn't she?"

Rather than answer Lillian. I ordered that I was to be left alone. That I needed time to prepare myself before we head to Camelot. Before we go to war. Before I kill my sweet Alastronia and her slut. Lillian didn't listen and instead chose to hold me as I wept and sobbed from the death of my cold black heart. I see. This is her purpose. She'll never take her place but I'm sure she'll try much like Willow. Much like I did. I knew. I saw a drawing. I just refused to believe Jane was meant to take the place I fought tooth and nail for. I may not be ready to kill Alex but by golly, I am ready to watch that blonde bleed. A light kiss was placed on my temple and my eyes closed and sleep found me. Even here I couldn't run from my heartache as my dreams were filled with memories of my one true love.