Chapter 2
He tore open the rest of the wrappings, to reveal a large book, A3 size, and with leather covering over the battered, dust-filled pages. There was a strange, golden symbol engraved on the front of the book.
It was Triquetra, yes, Alex knew that from his Maths class, but it seemed to have a special importance, as that was on the only thing on the front of the page, aside the logo.
THE BOOK OF SHADOWS
It was engraved upon the book, in the top, right-hand corner, in golden glory. But age was getting to it, and it was faded slightly.
Alex turned the page and a faint whiff of dust, as he saw the Triquetra again, with writing underneath.
Happy Birthday my dear Grandson,
Lots of Love,
Gran
xxx
Alex smiled, to acknowledge his appreciation. He turned the page, and there was an incantation, in neat, curly writing inscribed upon it.
'Hear now the hopes of my
soul,
the secrets I hide in the night,
the oldest of Gods are
envoked hear,
the great work of magic is sought,
In this night and in this
hour,
I call upon the ancient power,
return thy powers to the
choose ones,
I want the power, give me the power'
"I bought it at a pawn shop," his Gran added quickly, noticing the fascination on Alex's face. "It's a guide to the World of Magic," she told him.
Alex nodded, and turned the page, to see a colourful image of a Man, with dark purple eyes, and a tattoo on his arm, in the shape of a skull.
"The Fiend," Alex read aloud, "A being of immense telekinetic and telepathic abilities, which preys on sadness and negativity."
"It's probably fake..." his Gran said, in an afterthought.
Alex nodded, and opened his other presents, which were a lot less mysterious He got a new Camera phone from his Aunt in Austria, A Laptop from his Uncle in Germany, and a collection of books written by his favourite author, sent by his best friend; Ryan.
"Imagine if magic really existed," Alex said, as he skimmed through the books.
There was a chime.
"Oh Dear, you're late for school," his Gran said. She handed Alex her car keys. "Here you go, take my keys and drive my car. I know it's old but it'll do. Goodbye sweetheart." she kissed him.
He pocketed the keys, and his new mobile, and ran from the Living room. She heard him grab his bag from off the banister, shove his feet into his shoes, call "Goodbye" and slam the door.
Alex's words came back to Chrissie.
"Imagine if magic really existed,"
Chrissie waved her wrinkled hands and the wrapping paper neatly landed in the bin. She snapped her fingers and the trash emptied itself.
One more final wave of her hands, and the book soared over the room and in her arms.
"If you only knew," she said, leaving the room. The door snapped shut.