alex pov

I was sitting on the smooth stone temple floor with my pallid bruised knees pressed deeply against the ground. I grit my teeth as I pushed my weight deeper into it. It was inky black and reflective. Much like obsidian. I stared at myself with a sad drunk frown. The image wasn't one I was used to. As I don't look at myself. I avoid my visage at all costs. The image blurred as tears plopped. My cold shaky hands rested on my thighs. I tipped my pounding head back in awe of everything around me. Despite the pain in my body telling me to rest. I'm glad I came. It's certainly an experience worth having. Just hobbling in gave me chills, as there was a presence felt that clung to my chest and made it tight with emotion. I was trembling and crying seemingly for no reason and couldn't stop as I stared at the intricate handcraft of the glorious architecture. I didn't know how to describe it before, but the shape was made up of what looked to be several different triangular shapes configurated together. Some were perfect 90 degrees, others were more uneven, but together they created this beautiful structure that wasn't quite a pyramid, all along the walls and ceiling were these paintings and statues that were absolutely breathtakingly beautiful. My mouth fell open to sob. The figures & forms depicted are the divine panthea of my home. Each divine had several art forms showing them in stories where they were young or old, or pregnant or fucking, or even dead.

They were surrounding me. Everywhere I looked, there was a face looking down at my regretful actions. I could almost hear them speaking with wise words of wisdom to condemn me. I wore the sentence in my heart. Failure of faith lends to my demise. I bent forward until my head touched the ground, pressing it deep into the stone, with my arms pushed above my head, hands palm side down. I closed my eyes tight as I prayed for forgiveness, strength, and guidance. A foreign tongue. My trembling mouth moved with fervor as I accounted for every painstaking mistake I've made and spoke the names of the blood on my hands, after I finished my misdeeds, I prayed for anyone I could think the gods might show kindness to, there are so many here that need to be lifted up. The last name to cross my lips was whispered as a plea, a desperate plea. I begged that Isabella was long gone. That she's nothing but a meat suit and that dream was nothing but that, a screaming me-me.

Yet, when I lifted my head and stared directly up at what must be Dagda, I knew that was too much to ask. When had anything ever gone right for me? I just don't understand. I watched her die! She wrestled with Lilith for control until she lost! So how can this be?! How could she still be alive? What was I to do? I hadn't told anyone about my dream...but I know that was Bella, It was definitely not Lilith. Which means, what? I didn't even know. I shook my head angrily and stood, my body wavered and almost fell. It took some extra strength to stand but I managed. My feet sluggishly shuffled, and my tired eyes drooped as I wandered.

It was dead quiet out, unlike a literal hour ago, I was thankful for the brief moment of fun but I was definitely hungover and thankful for the quiet. I stood for a moment, just watching. The strange sight of two moons hung high above these funky-looking trees. Some were shredded bare of bark and were bright red. Almost as if it had bled. I wrinkled my nose as I sniffed the air. A stale scent of sweat hung heavy with a tang of smoke. We sure had a party. It was filled with a manic dance around several bonfires. Screeching held high in the air as we celebrated. Wine plenty and sloshing along the dirt floor. It was strangely beautiful out here. The surrounding area they had reminded me of an old Appalachian town. Dirt and moss covered the threadbare huts and outhouses standing in the night on their lonesome and really gave way to what little the druid elves had. They made do. But it was bare bones and hopes sown together. A beautiful one filled with love and joy but forceful laws and strict behaviors of kill.

Not like we were doing much better, I mean we lost forks, then had to run, and now the castle is gone! I don't know how I go to sleep in one place and wake up in an entirely different world but. I let out a sigh. My feet moving. I plundered around aimless and repentant. My emotions were all over the place and barely making sense. Particularly because of Izzy. I try not to think of her but of course, that's all I do. My mind obsessively pours for her. I love her still. But I hate her too. I'm not sure which is more powerful an emotion. She strikes so much. Limerance, regret, anger, remorse, grief... love. I can't imagine that I'll ever forgive her but I can't help but submit to this bond still boiling in my chest. The annoyance I feel at having once thought I'd spend eternity with the likes of her, that I could ease her pain and that we could. Make it work. The thing is with Bella. She always wants more. More than I can fucking give. She's taken not just from me but them, especially her. The other woman I'm obsessed with as of late. That reminds me of something. I was supposed to be finding my way back to them...I finally found the hut we were staying in. It was full and cramped. The unrested undead were quietly tucked away, chatting, about what? They got silent as I inched passed. Which means they are talking about me.

Not like that's new. I wonder what it is I've done to offend them now. Rosalie blames me for everything, but she's been quiet, pacified with helping Renee's baby. I stood for a moment as I watched them. She's cradled to her breast with the most adoring eyes. Rosalie barely let anyone touch the little thing. Other than Emmet and Esme. Speaking of him. Emmet seems to be taking things well, although it's not like he complains, he's the one that has the most fun running around the universe half-dead all the time. I wish I had his attitude. It would be nice to have a more positive outlook. Although if that happened, I'm pretty sure I'd be questioned about my sanity more than usual.

The others. Well. Ever since we were tossed on our asses. Carlisle and Tanya are inconsolable and toss Jane dirty envious looks whenever they get the opportunity. Don't get me started on how passive-aggressive Carlisle is. He's so catty sometimes. Which means he's been fighting with Esme. More than normal. It's pretty bad actually, She is not happy at all. She partied hard last night and they had this huge stormy argument about him leading the coven into treacherous conditions and his neglect of his other children. On the bright side, I'm pretty sure I remember a proposal. Yeah. I'm pretty sure Kate finally popped the question with a hand-carved rock ring. The love birds aren't around. Neither is Charlie. He ended up passed out drunk somewhere. I'm sure he'll be fine. If not. That's one less head I need to worry about. The other side of the cramped hut houses the remaining wolves left behind. Jacob was cuddled up with Leah. Seth wasn't too far from them snoring too. I eyed them compassionately, it really sucks that they are left stuck in my shit. Hm, The witches had the sense to sleep on higher ground, Elizabeth was levitating as she slumbered. As for Clara and Magnus. They were hanging from hammocks. Edward and Jasper were hunkered down together, sitting up against the hut, out. While Jane was given a place to rest beside them. She had their pillows under her like a bed. I carefully took my place among them and rested.

My eyes closed and my ears twitched. Listening for trouble, more than normal I mean. Like a red herring or something. Maybe I'll just get a ringing or some tune that will unfold what I'm supposed to do. My foot shaking and my heart was pounding. I couldn't shake it, It's settling in my bones and shaking my nerves. I know, shut up. I worry about everything. But just. I kept going over that dream I had. Mulling it over for any clues I missed but I couldn't move past her... like come on. She's gone. I watched it happen. Bella's dead. She's dead. She better be dead. I let out a puff of air and opened my eyes to see Jane. She was lying on her back, her arms crossed her chest, uncharacteristically of a corpse but her chest rose and fell. I looked away for a moment and within seconds she was too close. By too close. I meant she had moved until she was kneeling before me and our noses touched. Her breath ghosted my cheeks.

"...Can I help you?"

"Sleep." She blurred out. Then got sheepish about ordering at me. "You need to sleep. Would you like the pillows?"

She adjusted her posture until she was further away but still pretty close to me. Shielding me from view from others. I carefully nodded my head and took the order. We switched positions. She was close to the pillows. Her hand was near my head as if she had wanted to cradle my head in her hands to soothe my rumbling. I closed my eyes for a moment. Behind them I allowed a last tear to drip free. This one was shed for her... she's here for me and I'm over here lost in my mind... thinking about the one person I shouldn't. It's poetic in a dark way how star-crossed. Her fingers gently coiled themselves into my hair. She gently massaged my scalp for a moment. Her touch felt different than Bella's in every way. Izzy touched me rough and possessively, while Jane felt more nervous and appreciative of me.

"Where did you run off to?"

She whispered to me. Almost as if she had been expecting me to be fast asleep.

"I noticed when you had left... you didn't look happy, did you find what you needed out there? Wandering where ever you go when you search for that, girl, that harpy you seem to can't let go of... I wanted to follow you, and make sure you were safe, but. I know I have to let you come to me. So I'll wait. I have no choice but to. I just can't help but worry for your safety. There's so much that I've seen in such a short time and it's left my heart aching. You can't do this alone... I can't either. I am meant to help ensure your reign. To serve at your side. My liege you must get better. Stronger. Lord help us on this reckless oddessy."

Her hands left my hair. I didn't make a sound or movement to give way that I had heard the admittance from Frankie Jane. I choked down the need to react. Yet a few more tears fell down my cheeks. They were shed for them all but, especially her. My lovers. My betrayed lovers stand by me with loyalty as I fight to survive. If only things could be different...what would I do differently? I'd have wasted more time with them. It's selfish, yes, but a moment longer in forks with my boys on a good sunny day, out playing baseball? I'd take that in a heartbeat. It was hard to picture Jane. To see her running around with joy...it could be interesting to see that mask of porcelain crack a smile? To hear her laugh. To feel her. I'd love nothing more than to feel someone other than that cruel lover of days past. I guess everything happened for a reason. My thoughts swam further into darkness.

It honestly felt like I had just fallen asleep when Ambrose burst in to wake us. His voice boomed with his big ugly hands clapping as he yelled. It left us all in a huffing mood. He was rushing us around to get packed. We had a long day ahead of us, we're heading out to search for the cauldron. Dagda's cauldron... the last object needed to open the doors to thuatha de, just thinking his name made me remember staring up at that great big ol statue of Dagda and begging Isabella to be dead. The harpy, in Jane's words. I sighed. I wonder who it will be that I see when I get home. Izzy or Lilith.

I was the last to tidy up my things and head out. I followed a wafting scent of breakfast. It led me to a line filled with elves and creatures ready to get a full belly.

Probably the first in a while. I quietly got in line to wait. Once served I took a seat by myself. Just plopped on the ground and thought more about the situation with Bella & Lilith. Alright so. Bella being alive is not something that's expected. By me or by anyone. Which means...I need to tell someone. But how do I do that, without sounding crazy? Everyone already thinks I'm insane, but would they believe that Bella survived, hell I'm having trouble understanding. So. No.

I don't think they would and what's the point? It's not like it changes anything. I still have to kill her, unless she's willing to let my damn throne go, which from what I saw of her, is not likely. So. I'll just keep my mouth shut. Which was easy enough as I was stuffing it. The food was warm and filled me up. After I was done. I wandered around looking for Ambrose. I figured it was best I check in with him. He was avidly conversing with Ciri out by her hut. Her bodyguard wasn't too far with his sword peaking towards them. I just watched him play. He was flirting but she wasn't, she was angling for something and he knew it. Whatever it is. I hope it's worth it. My deal sure wasn't... I guess Bella's was. It didn't take long for the two to break off. She went one way and he found me. He stood over me with his purple eyes as if he needed something.

"We good to go?"

"Uh, yeah, have you eaten or taken blood?"

"Yeah... what was that about?"

"Huh?"

"You heard me. You and uh, ᚲᛚᚨᚱ"

"Look at you just causally using high elder like it's nothing. Come on. Let's get the others and head out. We're burning daylight just standing here."

"Ambrose?"

"Can I have some privacy? Not everything I do has something to do with you."

"That may be true, but she wants something, what is it? Are my people good here?" Ambrose raised an eyebrow.

"Yes, we are safe Alex. We were discussing things about you early this morning, while you were praying, she's aware of our struggles and was just concerned. As of just a moment ago, she agreed to send escorts with us, just in case we should need them today. Is that all?"

"...yeah, sorry for getting all queenly. I just. I'm just trying to do my job."

"No complaints. If you don't mind me asking. What did you pray for?"

We stood together. His body leaned close to lend comfort. I could tell he meant to hug me or something. I felt nauseous. His hand came down on my shoulder. He patted it. Then tried to say something. I didn't stay much longer. He didn't stop me. Just followed until we reached our group. The ones staying back were Eric, Charlie, and the baby. Everyone else had all been fed and was ready. Ciri did indeed give us escorts. Ambrose failed to mention, she was one. Oh. He didn't know. He was staring at her confused but was happy with the surprise. Before we left the elven camp, Ciri made sure her second in command knew what was up and we all trekked down the mountain. At the bottom. The wolves ran off immediately without care of instruction, honestly, I'm surprised they haven't run off yet. If I was Jacob id take what was left of my family and go. I guess it's in the wolf to fight. Whatever.

I was standing off to the side as Ambrose and Ciri began speaking to the rest. They were mostly talking about keeping their eyes open for any unwanted visitors. The forest is a vast home to many fae and most are not kind. Hand-drawn maps were passed around before we split off. Esme, Rosalie, Emmet, Alice, Kate, and Tanya were under Carlisle's orders and they ran off the second they could. Edward and Jasper limped behind. Frost and Merlin were with me and Frankie, while Clara, Magnus, and Ambrose lagged. Ciri was ahead of me along with her man.

She moved quickly and expected us to keep up otherwise we would fall behind. As we walked. I kept watch of the sky and I pondered about how it was Bella that lived. Where is Lilith? Is she just, dead? Bella is the new Lilith? Hm. My attitude slowed me down. Ciri noticed and called me out. I ran until I was by her side. Just to prove a point, but it ended up being a real race, she darted through the trees, and we were neck and neck but she did beat me. Fair and square. We had fallen in the mud laughing from fae joy when the others caught up. They kept going as we caught our breath. Laying out. She rolled over to look at me.

"Not bad, for a Royal." Ciri huffed.

I smirked.

"Aren't you one too? Some feral queen?"

"My people don't call me queen, I didn't even want to lead but here I am. I heard you're the same. But here you are."

"Yeah. A lot of good it's done."

I tried getting up but was stopped. Ciri had her hand tightly grasped on my arm. By tightly, I meant each digit left an imprint against my skin. We were breathing heavily and aggressively. I looked down at my hands and prayed I wouldn't have to use them. I calmly said,

"You're hurting me."

"From what I've seen in that mind of yours, this is nothing but a paper cut, you're fine, just listen to me. I don't trust anyone. I can't. Not unless I want to show weakness. You must learn this way, you show too much. Like how you're not ready. They see it. I see it too. That means Lilith sees it. As I said, I don't trust but I'm being asked to put my trust in you, for the sake of our people, I have no choice. Now, I know that I don't make it, that my people are already dead. That Ambrose has made it clear. However. I will do my part, to make sure what's left is alive. Cut the tears and stand tall on those broken feet. It's pathetic you lying down like this."

She let my arm go roughly and stood. She dusted her behind off and trotted. Before she was out of earshot, I called out.

"Lilith is gone. "

She stopped moving. I was still in the mud. Lying there. Staring up at that strange sun leaning over me with ill.

"I don't know what's going on but I know that she's not in my castle, she's not here either... when we find this cauldron and open the doors to Tuatha, it won't be her but my, ex-wife that I must slay."

"How is that possible? Ambrose said."

"Ambrose doesn't know everything... he can only see so much of what has changed with each turn of time. I swear it. It's Isabella... not Lilith that I must slay."

"That's merely a formality. I could care less who you must kill. I'm having trouble putting faith in the sad little girl."

"Too bad."

She kept moving abruptly, not waiting. I got up and walked, not ready to pick up pace after that shoddy threat. When she and I made it back with the group. We found that they had found something. A lake. A murky red body of water at that. We all had found our way to it. All of us standing on different sides of this strange lake standing here in this ever-changed landscape, this must be where we go, where we will find that horrific cauldron. In its creation. It was meant to feed. The large cauldron was enchanted that no matter how many people sat down to eat around it, they would all be fed. It's a never-ending enchantment. Whatever you put in it. Becomes an endless resource. Like if you put it inside a special waterfall that feeds an entire kingdom, no droughts. The land shall be fed. So why are we led here? To this scary-looking lake? It must be hidden inside it... I was the first to strip down and hop into the freezing water. The others followed suit. It wasn't brine shrimp that made it red. I'll tell you that. The water was putrid smelling of bile. As I swam deeper and deeper into that thick water until I reached the bottom. I wasn't surprised to find bones and bodies of animals and creatures. It was a dumping ground for something here. Something that ate. A lot. The rust-colored water was impossible to see through and it burned. It left a film against my skin that reminded me of lye. I had to keep coming up for air and wipe the acidic water off my face. Coughing up globs of liquid. I wasn't the only one choking and sputtering around.

As I floundered. Others had given up despite orders and screeching from Ambrose to keep searching. They escaped the lake with speed. Ambrose and I got into a screaming match about the laziness and the slackers but even he agreed we needed to get out as he suddenly screeched out in pain from the water. He soon skedaddled. I was the last in the lake, I was slowly making my way out. Surrounded by bones, algae, and dead fish. That's when. I felt something touch my leg. I was swimming and it barely ghosted. But it grabbed hold of me. The others weren't paying attention. I didn't say anything or do anything, I just allowed myself to float as I carefully looked around the red water. I couldn't see through it. I was trying to move when.

"Alex honey, you alright?" A familiar and motherly voice called out to me. I was surprised Esme was even willing to speak to me. She was fussing over all her kids. Checking over for wounds from the acidic blood-drenched foul-smelling lake from hell. "Alex?..." Esme turned around. "Honey, get out of the water, it's poison. "

It nipped at my ankle. Tethering me.

"I'm kinda stuck. I think it's seaweed or something."

"This isn't funny, Alex, get out."

"I'm not playing a game? I'm serious something has my leg..."

Others were taking notice of my refusal because Esme was fussing over me. By fussing. I meant full-on white woman crying and arguing. Rosalie was quick to shout explicitly. Screaming blue in the face that she would get back in and drag me out herself. Carlisle stood patiently rubbing his temples and tried speaking 'logic' to me. As if he could talk me down from the ledge...Emmet was trying to keep everyone calm, the boys were arguing, and the witches of the lovely family were already preparing a spell. They all not believing I was stuck and instead trying to hurt myself. I was kicking my feet, trying to release myself as I was literally arguing with them, when I was drug underneath. The viscosity of the water was like the shit given to patients with swallowing issues. It choked my nostrils and drowned my mouth as I was whipped around by some unknown creature trying to kill me. Spells and arrows were fired into the water. Most of them nearly sliced into me. Ambrose took control of the situation. Having forbidden anyone to help me. Occasionally I could hear the muffled shouting and screeching from the onlookers as I fought tooth and nail to unleash myself from its clutches.

—————————————

Jane.

After having stood here, wounded and listening to several of these bickering fools berate Alexandra until she was proven truthful of being trapped. I was heaving with rage and a mix of emotions as I was held against my will. Bows were aimed at us by the hands of the fae. Daring us to disobey a direct order from that Ambrose. I'm unable to do anything to help. Not as if I'd be of much use. That gangrenous lake bout dissolved my toes. Even in my state. I could still feel a full aching that sang. I ignored it and focused.

Despite efforts to break past the barrier of the fae's magic, I was still captive, along with everyone else. I just allowed myself to relax as much as possible. To pray and hold faith that she could make it. We were waiting to see who would live. Would it be whatever has Alex in a chokehold or her? Who knows. But it had all of us wound up tight. Well. As much as we could being held, hostage. Ambrose ignored any and all attempts to snag his attention. He focused only on the lake. Which pushed the others into a panic. Questioning his methods and his sanity as the queen, our only hope, is drowning. That doesn't seem quite productive.

The only one not panicked was Jasper. He was facing Ambrose with a death wish in his heart. Ambrose wasn't phased but even I could see he kept watch of him. Eyeing Jasper with keen interest. Making sure that he was still held against his will. I mean, if anyone could break the spell, I bet it would be Whitlock. Let's hope. Although, he wasn't getting out anytime soon. Which means Alex must win. We weren't allowed to help because the queen must learn. She must want to survive on her own. That's what Ambrose said. So here we are, the lost lot, stuck and keeping watch. We hadn't seen either, Alex or the thing for a while. There's just a gurgling scream and several pools of blood forming. Then nothing. No bubbles, no more blood, just a still silent lake.

"Ambrose." Carlisle stiffly yet calmly called out to the strange creature.

"She's fine."

He replied. Not moving his head to even acknowledge. He simply ignored us. I tried to catch a glimpse of the others around me. I could see a silent crying Edward nearby, his eyes peeled open and dripping yet his body ridged with fear. Alice was closest to him, she wasn't watching. Her eyes closed. Her hands covered them too afraid to see the death. The electric lady stood behind Alice with a smile awaiting to see the victor of the gruesome battle against the deadly lake.

"The water isn't moving anymore..."Someone behind me called out. It sounded as if it was another Cullen. Ah the big boulder, Emmet.

"I said, she's fine." Ambrose, yet again, ignored our suggestion of help and our struggle with what was going on here.

"How can you be sure?" This question came from Carlisle, yet again, trying to speak reasonably to that thing Ambrose.

"Has the time and space continuum fallen? Have any of the consorts keeled over? No. She's just. I don't know what she's doing but she's fine."

The last person to question him was Ciri. When he didn't respond to her. The scantily clad fae woman turned from us and scanned the water. Her bow pointed out as if she meant to shoot. Under her breath, I could hear her mutter in high elder. Speaking out of turn. Speaking in Alexandra's name. It was irritating and so I made myself known. I ordered her to speak like that once Alex finds herself free from that damn lake. The woman turned around with a grin and eyed me intrigued by my high elder. She complimented my speech but didn't apologize for saying such rude things about my queen and then pointed her bow directly at my head. Asking if I wanted to wager my life in a bet. If Alex wins. I survive. If not, well I'll die anyway so why not have her make it quicker? The purple-eyed creature dared to look down the line of bystanders until he could see me. Before he could say anything, a dead fish was tossed directly at his big head. Ambrose's spell had been broken. The culprit was indeed Queen Alexandra. She was struggling to pull herself out of the shallow waters. She didn't look good.

Queen Alexandra was half-eaten alive. A gelatinous clear skinned octopus was still wrapped around her with its suction cups making mean bruises. The thing must have hungrily sloughed off her face since a significant portion was nothing but bone, several other wounds were visible that covered over half her body. She only just got out of the water before she collapsed face-first into moist ground. I along with the other two lovers raced to help her. I was careful making sure not to step foot in the water as we tugged her.

We were down on the ground trying to carefully remove the extra limbs of the octopus. She was barely breathing as the thing sat on top of her chest. By the time we had it in our hands and free from her. She had healed. Just sat up like it had been nothing. Although I had expected that, I was still shocked. None of us got a moment with her as the girl raced right back into that damn flesh-eating lake. Edward was after. Trying to lift her and drag her away kicking and screaming. He was refusing to let her go. Even though she kept beating against his back and trying to explain her reasoning. He simply didn't care. He marched with her over his shoulder as far from that lake as possible.

Leaving Jasper and me behind with the rest. He was standing silent and thoughtful as he kept staring at the water...the sun was just setting. We had been out here, all day, and found nothing. I was just about to rejoin the group when Jasper hit my arm to catch my attention. I barked at him for daring to touch me. He laughed at my attitude and then pointed at something. I followed the direction. It couldn't be, it couldn't, but it was. A round gold bowl-looking thing was just out there, in the water, floating. I didn't even think about it. There was no point. I started walking into the water, I started paddling with all my might, ignoring the boiling pain. There it is. I had it. My aching hands held it in my clutches with such relief. I didn't have the strength to swim back, but I had what I assume is Dagda's cauldron. I called for help and received it. I was transported out of the lake. The bowl is still in my hands. It wasn't large at all. It didn't feel heavy either. Ugly carvings and high elder were all over the thing. Ambrose and Ciri appeared at my side. They both ignored my wounds and my suffering to steal the bowl from my grip. I refused to let it go and called out for Jasper.

To which he helped me up and escorted me away from them both. I limped alongside him until we found Alex and Edward. They weren't far, She was still being coddled by him but she was thankful I had found what she was after, before I could say anything back my wounds were completely gone. She eagerly took the bowl from me and left. Just walked off from us three like nothing. I'm getting quite tired of this behavior but I'm bereft of how to mitigate it. We stared at each other for a moment. Not knowing what to do about our ever-so-distant lover. We shrugged our shoulders and followed. The group was quick on our feet. The hike back to camp was quiet. No one made any noise. I wasn't sure if it was fear or anxiety of what was to come but I was alright with it. Upon arrival, we were greeted with a disheartening message, those cages filled with fae that had been captured. They were empty. By empty, I mean they had been blasted open and the captives were missing. Their shackles are gone too. A note was left on one of them.

It explained the camp was raided. The wild hunt swarmed. There was nothing left but bodies in the wake, huts destroyed, and personal items had been confiscated. Nothing was left. Nothing but dead. At least several of her men didn't leave. The elves fought valiantly against the hunt. All the men, women, and children... gone. As we stood there. Eyeing what was left. Ciri screeched out at the sight of it all. Running around like a madwoman. Trying to find anyone that had been left alive. Her screams weren't the ones that broke my heart. Alexandra called out for the dead too. Yet as she cursed, she didn't say Lilith's name, but Bella's. It echoed. The sheer sound was strong enough to blow several trees to the ground. As the two queens bellowed.

The others, including me, were confused as we stood around watching. Our eyes looked at the bodies surrounding us, how long had it been? Had this just happened? Or had it been hours? We were too afraid to ask questions. Too afraid of setting Alexandra off as she wildly cried out for Bella's blood, but we needed to understand.So. It was Edward that tried speaking to her. With his words at first, then his mind. He explained that through her hysteria, she was unresponsive, so he calmly walked away. His hands in his hair, tugging roughly, his feet kicking at dirt and curses under his breath. Jasper didn't want to interfere with her emotions while she was so delicate. So he was no use either. He quickly escaped to relieve himself of the emotional chaos.

The only other person willing to even near her was Rosalie and she only cared to find out if her baby was dead or alive. She asked calmly at first. But when told that It, along with Charlie and Eric were nowhere in sight. That they either ran off or were taken. She began screaming too. But she was screaming at Alex. I couldn't have prepared for the situation that unfolded. A full-on fistfight between the sisters broke out. Rosalie was on top, pummeling Alex. As Alex refused to hit back. After the next punch. I was about to separate them when I got attacked too. Tanya and Kate. They were strong and pissed and surrounded me. The heat of my flames didn't deter them. So let's dance. Tanya attacked ruthlessly as she tried to get at my neck. Speaking ill of Carlisle's cure being wasted on the likes of me. She even got close enough to taste. While I tried not setting her alight. Kate simply couldn't help but send tendrils of electricity my way. As I defended myself, gravity reversed polarity and we all went flying. The culprit was the frosty Odd.

Her long and lanky body moved slowly as she edged closer to where the forgotten cauldron lay. She picked it up and assessed that it hadn't been harmed in the scuffle and then tossed it high above. It floated. She dared to almost let it drop, unless, Alexandra was to explain herself. Ambrose edged close behind Elizabeth. Almost a threat in itself. She shivered in fear but didn't allow his threat to stop her. They both patiently waited for Alex to explain. She kept her mouth shut. Ciri was the one to inform us of the news. That it isn't Queen Lilith but, Queen Bella. That she had somehow survived and it was her doing that led to this moment. The expressions on everyone's faces at hearing that. You'd think someone had dropped a stink bomb. Alex was the first to drop, then me, the others were maneuvered into Carlisle's care before being released from the spell. He immediately had Emmet and Jasper escort them away, Rosalie and Esme went with them. Magnus and Merlin drifted, giving the parents a moment with Alexandra.

Clara, Elizabeth, and Carlisle. They were trying to get her to speak on what was said. Asking how it was that Bella lived. Questioning what happened on the quest. Alex had no answers. She spoke of some dreams that didn't make much sense. Even then it wasn't enough to explain how. The parents were flabbergasted and tired and filled with enough regret that they too limped away. Ambrose was around but he kept his distance. Glaring at her strangely. She was balled up on the ground where she had fallen and her fresh wounds starting to heal, I carefully sat down but kept Ambrose in my line of sight. I tried asking some more questions to understand. She was still too emotional. She was sobbing and rocking back and forth. It was breaking my cold exterior. I simply wrapped my arms around her and held them tightly. What else could I do? She almost collapsed into me. Just laid there. Ambrose eventually dared to near us. I was frightened of what he was going to do. Frightened that he'd hurt her for keeping quiet about such things as this. However. He just took a seat, his head limp. We just sat there. Among the trees, and bodies left to sour. I looked around at the carnage of the camp. Knowing it was Isabella that did this... that she ordered the death of these people. I just. I held Alex as tight as I could. I left little kisses on her temple and shushed her quietly. She eventually passed out without a fuss. It was dead silent except for a weak breeze. It drifted the scent of death. Ambrose finally spoke up by coughing up spittle. He wiped it away with his trembling arm. I dared lift my head and look at the thing. The old creature didn't cower but met my gaze. We gently started a conversation.

"What now?"

"Humph?"

"What do we do now?... I mean, we have the cauldron..."

"Ah. Yes, that is true, she did manage to find it while being fish food. Um. Well. It's a bit dark now. Too dangerous to go searching for a doorway to thuatha. So we rest until the morning and then we."

"We what?"

"We kill Bella."

"You don't sound enthusiastic about that."

"Lilith being dead significantly levels the playing field for her... if she can do it."

"She can."

"Are you sure, look at her, a mess?"

"I won't listen to any more talk like that. She's ill. Not weak. There's a difference and you best start treating her as such. How do you expect her to rule, to be a queen, If all you do is tell her she can't?"

"Just get her out of my sight. I advise you two stay away from the others, at least for tonight, just don't go too far please."

I didn't need to be told twice. It was easy enough to carry her around until I found a hut that wasn't covered in a bloody mess or burnt to a crisp. I was posted up as a guard, a weapon in hand while she slumbered. Occasionally, her boys would stop by to check in on sleeping beauty but they didn't stay. Both of them were helping to bury the bodies. I could still hear ciri's wailing. The sounds edged an attitude. One that left me nervous. We should move. It's too dangerous here, what if they come back? What if? What if? What if? I just don't know what to do other than watch over her.

She wasn't out long and soon she was trying to snag my attention. I carefully laid next to her to quiet her nerves. A thin blanket separated her from me. She shivered against my chest. I felt what must be kisses against me. I was perplexed with how to respond so I didn't react. Her head came up to look at me. Her hand moved to caress my cheek. I was face to face with a woman, a beautiful woman, one that should be mine. Yet, in those eyes, I couldn't help but wonder if when she closed them to kiss my lips. If it was the other woman she saw. It's sinful to think, especially after what she's done, but I know that Alexandra's heart is not mine. Yet. However, her lips were pressed against mine in the most loveliest of ways. Light pressure of timid hands roamed my body. Tugging my leg across her. She enjoyed being in control and willfully pushed herself to toy with my delicate heart. I simply couldn't let it go any further than that. She was generous in her efforts to convince me that she was ready. However, I politely reminded her. That I wasn't. I want to court her. It's silly, especially with what's going on. But. It's the only way. I want to do things right and when I explained. I was shocked to find that she was pleasantly surprised and in tears.

"... I'm sorry have I said something to offend you? Or, um, I'm not good with tears. Shall I get Edward?"

"It's ... it's just, maybe you're right. We should wait but."

"But what? What is making you so ready to push ahead before either of us is honestly prepared?"

"It's stupid."

"It's not, you can tell me, anything really."

"It's just. I have this feeling that if we don't bond before I must meet that woman on the battlefield... we never get the chance. Things are not going well and I guess I want to forget about her. To move on. Our bond is the first step."

"That's true."

"So you agree?"

"I'd love nothing more than to just, get on, I'm not opposed to pleasuring you. I just want us to be ready for the moment."

She got quiet and sleepy and more affectionate than she would normally be. I allowed myself to enjoy her. I didn't mind her touch so much anymore. It was even soothing. To appease the hunger in her heart. I kissed her with fear and appetite. Just as I pulled away, I lingered. Starting into her eyes. Holding her close to me. I kissed her forehead and commanded she put that desire away. She feigned innocence of her seduction but did as I asked. She drifted to rest. She tossed and turned. It kept me up but I didn't dare move. I just thought of a time after this. Where we could be together and not have this weight lingering over our shoulders. A home, a peaceful home that wouldn't be threatened by that Isabella.

--

Esme.

If this had been home. Things would be different. If this had been home. I wouldn't be waist-deep in blood. If this had been home? My darling mate wouldn't be tortured by this much pain. But this is not home. This is the land of the fae. Which means I shouldn't be surprised. I've asked myself the same question, why am I here? Am I staying for Carlisle? Who happens to be following after his son. As much as he loves Alexandra, I happen to know he's here more for Edward than anyone. He let him go once and it almost killed him. He won't leave his boy again. So I am here with my husband and my son. I'd love to call Rosalie my daughter but she's always been more of a friend than anything. She had strict rules early on, she already had a mother and I respected that notion for her. Yet since, that precious child, we grew closer in a way that I can't explain. We both bonded over having a little one around. Now that she's, poor little child. Rosalie and I still haven't decided on a name, I was staring at the hut we had left this morning, thinking of my last moments with that little girl and I hurled. I coughed up all the blood I had

consumed the night before and cried.

The moment was overshadowed by the sound of several voices overshadowing Tanya yelling in some lost language. She was desperately pacing around and still fired up over the brief moment with Jane. Kate and Alice were trying to persuade her into calming down. I sank to the floor and hit my head against the wall of the hut. What am I doing here? It's the only thought in my mind. Shouldn't we be heading after something, like that child that's been stolen from... I tossed any more thoughts about that baby. There's no use. If Isabella was involved. She's sure to be dead. If not? I'd be shocked, she didn't seem too keen on her younger sister having been born. But what of Charlie? Honestly, he'd probably be better off not being alive, I'm sure his liver was on its way to aka putting on itself. So. Why not just sit here and wait for death? I'm sure it will happen soon enough. As it follows this family like a moth to a flame ever since Alexandra. I rolled my eyes and regretfully tried thinking less of that unfortunate child.

"How could you have not seen this?"

I paid attention to the others in the room. The question came from Rosalie. I could barely tear my eyes from her. She had sauntered in with a mission. She was looming over Alice. Not threatening her. But trying to keep herself from harming her. Her hands were carefully held behind her back as she stood tall. The others were just as captured by her essence. Alice was compelled to answer.

"I didn't know. I couldn't have possibly seen that any of this would happen."

"That's obvious. Did I ask how? Alice Cullen, the useless seer. Are you not ashamed of yourself? Continuing the way you do, look at you, defending her."

"I was trying to."

"I heard what you said, telling Tanya that she shouldn't want to kill Jane. Why not? With all, she's done? She should be given a significant rude awakening in life.

Arguing down from what we honestly should all be doing. Why not? Why should we let the betrayer and her concubine live, while innocents are not?"

Alice was silent as Rosalie continued to express a desire to sacrifice Alexandra. Her head was tucked into her chest. A sorrowful frown. Rosalie finished her tirade. That's when Alice glared into Rosalie's eyes.

"Alexandra isn't the only one to have changed. You were always a bitch but you've never been this mean. If you'd like to know more about the future and its possibilities. I will be searching."

Alice escaped the room with tears pouring and Kate running behind her. The three of us were alone and silently uncomfortable. Tanya was reluctant to talk but slowly made her way to my side. Outside of Carlisle. She's the only person I tolerate. Although she was suffocating when upset.

"You've been quiet."

"What is there to say?"

"I wonder where Irina is."

"You would."

"She's my sister."

"Yes. But she left you."

"I still wonder where she is. If she's well or if she's even alive... I'd kill her if I could."

"You wouldn't survive that."

"I know..."

"I miss my sister too."

"You had a sister?"

"Oh yeah, a few nephews and nieces too. I haven't thought of her in eons but sometimes I feel a longing for her. I'm sure Irina is fine. I can't even say it. I can't lie to myself anymore. You're right. She's probably dead and we will be too."

"Just not before that little girl dies."

"Leave Jane alone."

"It makes me sick that she's, I wasn't speaking of her, but I will behave."

She stood up and left me. I closed my eyes and pretended to drift away. Thinking of times before all this. A time when it had just been Carlisle and me. The moment didn't last long. As Rosalie demanded my attention without asking.

"What are we going to do?!"

"Lower your voice, please. "

"Esme, she's gone... I just. We must do something. I can't just be expected to sit here and not do anything to save my child. What if? What if she's alive?!" I couldn't help but sigh. I opened my heavy lids to stare at the woman. It was almost like looking into a dirty mirror. I remember the death of my son Elijah. I looked just as she does right now. Lost. Confused. Angry. Hopeless. Hopeful.

"Rosalie."

She crawled to me on her knees until she could rest against me. Hm. Her arms were wrapped tight around me. Her head pressed to my breasts as she sobbed. My arms were limp noodles. I couldn't hold her and deal with my own emotions. It was easier for me to speak the truth. To rip that hope from her heart like a saint. But I didn't. I simply said nothing. What can you say to a mourning mother?

—————————————

Ambrose.

My mind is preoccupied. I find it hard to think. As if each thought moved through sludge and drug along for eternity. Mostly because I'm in shock. I never thought that I'd make it this far. That she. Lilith has been slain by the likes of Bella. Hm. It's almost laughable to think about. I've been trying to figure out how to do that for ages. Yet a bright psychopath is all it took to behead that old lady of the dark.

The sound of a roaring fire crackled hot. The kindling wasn't wood but the rotting piles of bodies sat high before me. The bodies left here by that young psychopath. There was a reason I liked her so much. She reminds me of myself. Cunning. Certainly more of a threat than I expected.

I turned away from the piles and started walking. I was tracing the steps of the hunt. Glimpses of them broke through the walls of space and glitched around. Showing me what exactly occurred here. They showed up nearly an hour after we had left and decimated the elven stronghold within twenty minutes. Then the slaves were forced to leave with them. I was unable to retrace the steps of Erík, however, it was clear he was unharmed. As for the humans missing. Charlie and the young one were escorted on horseback along with those slaves back home. Hm. I wonder if they are alive. Had the psychopath missed her family, and decided to collect the last of her bloodline? I'm surprised she left a note. I imagine it was left for her 'ill' wife Alex.

The glitches disappeared. During my distraction. I garnered some attention. Whitlock was out here busying himself. The crybaby wasn't around anymore. He ran off after setting the last of the bodies off. Probably off out to kill something. The consorts aren't my favorite responsibility but at least they are useful. I was fairly certain they would be invaluable against Lilith and her hounds but... against Isabella, they are my only hope. Im not convinced that Alex can hold her own without screwing herself over. I don't need to remind anyone that the first chance she got with that sword, she tried to off herself, she openly said she'd do it again. Which leaves me concerned.

Whitlock was just as trounced by the affairs of Isabella and Alexandra. He wore a frown. It curled across his face with malice. He was wasting what energy he had left trying to maintain control over himself. I found myself conjuring a drink. It was the remains of the elven wine that hadn't been destroyed or stolen by the hunt. Then I came round to soothe him. The wine was taken without word or acknowledgment. We were leaning against what must be the remains of a broken table from some hut or something. It was uncomfortable but we kept our rough-soled boots pressed into the ground. Whitlock kept some space between us. I angled my head to get a better look at him. I admire her taste. Alexandra does well in the physical department of her consorts. Especially with women. But Whitlock held a certain beauty that wasn't handsome but brutish. Scars cover every inch of him. I've seen his corpse enough times. He's always the last to die... I ignored the drifting thoughts to speak.

"Whitlock, you know, you're not too bad to look at." He responds with a grunt." I mean it. You're rough around the edges. But you do hold a certain beauty. I see why she chose you. The way you love her, it's admirable but does it tire you out?"

"I assume you're speaking of her attachment to the queen of England."

"That's a funny way to describe Isabella."

"She's old news, royalty, and has committed atrocities and war crimes."

"Hm."

"Sorry, I'm tired. What exactly do you want Ambrose?"

"Nothing."

"Hm."

We took turns taking swigs from the oblong blown glass jug the wine was in. It was crystalline and had a slight hint of blue. The handfast was immaculate. Nearing us both being completely shitfaced it slipped from his hand while passing to mine. The sound was positively distorted by slurring swears and a physical jump from Whitlock, he was finally able to release the emotions boiling inside him. A fist hit the side of my face. It was meaty and filled with pain from years of bottling up. I retaliated with several jabs to his gut. He laughed with a manic rage of bull seeing red. In the past. I've had moments with this kid. Where he's found himself at the end of my hands and on his ass but this time. I allowed myself to be beaten by him. I was flipped, kicked, tossed, and even bitten but I never lifted a finger. When he was finally done. I was black and blue, my nose shattered, my cheeks swollen, and arm dislocated, and limping. He was leaning over me, blood dripping from his mouth, crouched to kill but didn't, he just kneeled over me crying.

"I wanna kill you."

"Do it."

"Heh, I don't think my wife would like that."

"Not like it's stopped you from trying before."

"I'm tired." He laid out next to me." Is there an end to this? An end to suffering? Or do you just pretend to know the end?"

"Nothing is clear to me anymore. Everything I've done has only made things worse. Strangely I'm disappointed that Lilith is gone but I'm glad she's gone. Although I'm not too sure about that girl. We may need to. If she can't kill her. I will require your assistance in that matter." He grunted in accordance with my request. I whispered a spell to heal myself. He noticed and then snorted with contempt of me having used my magic. That's something I've noticed about this one. He finds magic to be unpalatable and unpleasant and mostly a nuisance to life.

"What's got you so glum?"

"I'm in mourning."

"Of what?"

"I don't want to talk about it. I'm just sad is all. I'll be alright by morning. Make sure everyone is ready by then. We won't be wasting any time. We must find a passage to use and then we will go home."

"You mean go to thuatha. That's not home."

"Maybe not for you, but it is for her."

"Don't you think I know that?"

"Then what's with the attitude?"

"This mission has been nothing but hell."

I desired to laugh at his choice of words but decided I liked having my face intact. He has no idea just how right he is. There have been many times that I've turned. Many times that I've lost. But this time. I've collected every artifact and all that's left is to hang that psychopath and then? I haven't thought about it after...that thought will have to wait until I make it there. Without a second thought. I hoisted myself up and dragged myself around to watch after the rest of my underlings.

They were spread out far and wide. Separated by the blood in their veins. Many of those vampires, were out and about. I could spy the little seer couched up in a tree. A black bird broken and mangled hanging from her hands as she uses its blood to further her sight. The big blonde that's always around her was hanging out underneath the tree. Waiting. A few others ran out to hunt. They were warned against it but you know what, they gotta eat. I eyeballed at those shifters that are here. They were in their wolf forms and pacing around the trees. Eyeing the perimeter. The leader caught my attention and spoke. Directing its thoughts at me. No sign of any threats. I was also informed that they wouldn't be attending the morning search. Jacob has finally decided to listen to his lover and they will remain here. Living amongst the forest. Jacob furthered the discussion by informing me of how lovely it is here. How he plans to build a home for them. I didn't have much to say, I just acknowledged that I have lost footmen with a regretful heart and tried to persuade him into changing his mind. I was informed Bella being alive is why. Leah and Seth are ready to call it quits and he refuses to lose his love for Bella.

There was no use in trying anymore. I wouldn't be surprised if this shall lead to others decidedly staying here indefinitely. I happen to know that Merlin has been in open discussion with Magnus about heading off to Camelot. The original plan was to persuade those still left with helping us. However now that Lilith is gone. What's to stop them from heading out to quit? Isabella isn't a great threat but she is formidable against Alexandra. She's a wild card. I'm not sure what to expect anymore. She's showing her hand, showing Alexandra that she can be just as nasty an opponent as Lilith. This new variant of time has left open holes that I can't fix. Let's hope Alex is ready. I'm aware she can swing her blade adequately but she can't be trusted with it. Doesn't help, I've lost Erík, he's more than needed to behead the hunt from ruling our nation. It's more than just killing Lilith or Bella...we must disinfect an entire kingdom of an era of evil violence. My niece is ill-equipped to handle more than what she's capable of and it's not much. I know I'm hard on her. I know I've been cruel to her but it's the only way sometimes. Fucking hell. Lilith is dead?I shook my head at the confusion and marched around looking for that girl. I found her huddled in a hut with Jane. I wasn't acknowledged by the consort. It was focused on the girl. Eyeing her with questions pouring from wet icy blue eyes.

"How long has she been resting?"

"Since we've been here, occasionally she mumbles or tosses around but she's out."

"Have you slept?"

"No."

"Come with me."

"I'm not leaving her alone."

"Whitlock will find his way to her. We have much to discuss and much to do."

She got up without much fuss. We were heading back towards the carnage. Passed the camp and towards the house of worship. It was left untouched. This should have been the first thing gone. Lilith destroyed all remnants of our gods. We were to worship her. So, why is this here? Bella must have told them not to. To leave this temple here as a sign? Or... there's so much that doesn't make sense. Just as I was about to enter. I noticed the consort began praying to her false god. She lingered behind me as we walked in. The sight affected her as it affected me. A tableau was made. It sat directly where I had last seen my young queen bend knee and contemptuous head and submit penance. It was some strange shrine to her. Cementing her identity among the rest as the goddess that she unhelpfully is. Offerings were left. A beautiful beaded necklace and a hand-stitched negligee surrounded by an assortment of flowers. The consort was quick to disintegrate the sight before anyone else took notice. We stood there, eyeing the ashes. Do you see?! This is why I will lose people! Because of the insanity that is Isabella. She's fixated on Alexandra and of course, it boils my queen but she invited the mess. She's the one that went along with loving the creature that is that psychopath. Listen to me. As if I'm not the same as her. Mourning the loss of my mess. My psychopathic rage obsessed lover. I'm disturbed that I couldn't watch the light leave those mismatched eyes of hers. Oh, Lilith... the consort spelled the ashes away. She was about to leave. I stopped her. We stood. Staring at each other. She a good distance from me but waiting here. I didn't have anything to say but I was scared that I'd quite bungled something.

"She can't know anything about that."

"Like I'd tell her." The consort rolled her eyes and expressed her discomfort." Can I go? I'd like to. Bathe or something."

"I feel just as violated. Just as confused. Just as scared. Um. I may need you to wield that sword... we discussed that prior but now it's probably for the best. I don't want Alexandra anywhere near Bella."

"Too bad. The bitch dies."

The consort and I physically jumped at the sound of Alexandra's voice. Both of us turned our heads back to where that shrine had been and silently understood. We had just intercepted something. We just stopped yet another mental breakdown from imploding Alexandra. She pushed us into the temple and ordered us out. She wanted to pray. We left her alone. Neither of us spoke as we reluctantly walked further and further from the house of worship. Too afraid that saying anything would suddenly change that outcome. That the creepy death goddess Isabella worshipped with deranged love would somehow know what we destroyed. About halfway to the elven faction. The consort stopped moving. She stood ridged. Her spine was completely stretched. Her knees locked. Her hands flexed into fists. Several trees around us caught flame. She didn't scream as Alexandra would. She was silent in her rage. The trees roared in a deep scarlet until they were nothing but charred white dust. Several more went alight but this time they sparked a violent violet like my eyes. The trees cried blood. It leaked like sap. It boiled and burst the trunks until they exploded from the heat simmering inside. I stopped her from hurting anything else. She threatened me. Stating if she didn't flame something, she might self-combust.

"I'd save this till morning, I have a feeling things are going to be different than anyone could anticipate... I suggest you go find Elizabeth and train with her."

She nodded robotically. She followed orders as a fine knight would. Without question or fuss. If only Alex could be.

—————————

Alexandra.

Honestly, I had been awake when Ambrose came in and disturbed Frankie. After they left. I sat up against the wall of the hut. An unfamiliar deerskin blanket wrapped around me. It wasn't enough to beat the chill of the night but was thoughtful. The hut was particularly cool because the clay walls were chilled from the outside. I could hear the wind beating against the roof. I could see my breath in whirls. They came out two or three at a time as I shallowly breathed. Rasping through pain and suffering. I looked around the hut with interest. It was much smaller than the other one. It could only fit a single person if honest. Maybe two people if they were small. Much of the furnishings were gone save but the kitchen. I stood up. The blanket around me. I padded to the small stone kitchenette. Beautiful holly wood cabinets were hanging above it. I searched high and low for something, anything, there was nothing to eat.

A loud stomach growl and a wave of nausea hit. I hadn't fed since earlier...I felt alright. Not like I'd have some issues with magic or some strange fit. Just starving. I decided it was best if I searched for something. Once outside the hut. I noticed how bare the town was. How silent. How cold it felt in the once charming environment. Things were just missing. Like the meat locker that held aged food. An abundance of fresh meat. My mouth watered. Where had it gone? Oh. I was reminded of the atrocities committed by Isabella and almost fainted. I held strong. Clutching at my stomach. I was reminded of that dream... that strange dream where she found me... what must it have meant? My feet were bare against the soil. I stuck my toes into the dirt and steadily started running. The blanket whipped like a cape as I dashed. The once beautiful Appalachian town was nothing but mounds of burning bodies and rubble.

I didn't stop running until I couldn't see any more flames. Although the scent of them followed me. The smell of them choked every heavy breath in the thick cool night. I looked up and around. I was outside that ethereal place where I had last felt something. The temple. After that brief moment interacting with Frankie and Ambrose. I found myself walking the perimeter of the building. Faintly trailing my hands along the walls. Touching the bodies of my kin with the intent of destroying them but I refrained from hurting them. In that dream, they had reached out to me and intervened in that conversation with Bella. But they chose not to intervene in her destruction. Hmm, interesting how they pick and choose when to play this game.

I was just about to settle down and attempt to speak to them kindly but

Ciri entered, she watched, eyeing me curiously as I looked at the portraits and statues with an artistic eye. I cautiously angled myself towards her. If only to ensure I'm not attacked. I was surprised. Her face was puffy from tears. She sluggishly moved until she was facing the other direction. Ignoring my presence. She was kneeling before a portrait of Cernunnos her back freshly cut and bleeding. Probably from having been flogged or whipped. It's a punishment that elves use on themselves when they've dishonored. The scent of the oozing flesh made my mouth water and stimulated my senses as she weepingly and belligerently prayed. I watched the scene with keen interest. With each word spoken, she would further harm herself by beating herself. The weapon chosen was a chain mail whip with nasty rusted metal nails cutting.

I was reminded of my years as an adolescent inside mental institutions and seeing the arms and legs of several others surrounding me. Cutting was never my thing. I preferred to self-harm with drugs. I was going to pray but felt like I'd rather just leave... before I could. Ciri threw her blood-caked whip at me. It skittered along the floor and cut the back of my ankle. I hissed as blood leaked in spurts of black.

"What was that for?"

The cut healed almost immediately. Yet the pain lingered around and a fresh bruise blued. Within seconds it was gone. Ciri watched the reaction with interest.

"You deserve more than just one. You deserve as many as my people received for having you here. I should have listened to my advisor when he said to just kill you. But no, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to host such royalty. The lost queen of Thuatha, what a queen she is."

"I deserve that. You're right, I'm a shit queen but I didn't exactly get to choose my life. It was inherited from my parents. Trust me. But. I see how unhappy you are. How pained at losing someone, or maybe this is all for them. For the entirety of your people. I can bring them back... raise them from their graves."

"At what expense? Hm? They wouldn't be themselves but empty shells. Just because you can raise the dead, doesn't mean you should. You think you'd learn that lesson after what you did to your father."

"You speak of fathers, yet you killed yours in cold blood all for the sake of a crown."

"I'm not a."

"That's a crown on your head, aye? That's a sign, a symbol. You wear it to show that you are in charge. That you rule. Your people believed in you as a queen. So that makes you one. Whether you want to be or not. I know more than my share of that burden. So continue beating yourself as I do for we have failed our people together. Now if you'll excuse me, I'd like to mourn and drink myself to sleep. I've got a date with the bitch on my damn throne."

"I can believe I was this stupid. Listening to that purple-eyed oaf. Thinking I could kill Lilith. I was half praising the gods when you said it was that girl you are obsessed with. But gee, I see that was a mistake too. She's got Lilith's men trampling around all because she can't let you go. She's nearly just as diabolical of an adversary. Your people have lost faith in you. You're just as stupid as me. So. I'd go out there and dig a grave and lie in it."

I left without another word and she began praying again. The sound of her manic sobbing echoed behind me as I wandered freely. It eventually faded into nothingness and the sound of wind whistling through trees was replaced. I didn't want to head back to camp. I wasn't ready to face the others. It was hard enough fumbling through a hurried explanation of how the hell Bella was alive but seeing them feel betrayed at me knowing well that was peachy keen. But oh boy, Rosalie, I'm not ready for round two. So I kept walking around the forest. It was then that I stumbled upon a river. It was chilly and filled with beautiful fish swimming upstream. I decided to take a dip. To stand in the rushing water. Occasionally I'd snag a fish and drain it. The blood was decidedly salty and fishy, much like sardine juice... fucking gross.

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Jane.

I was decidedly unwell. A swirl of emotions held just under the surface spiked my magic into distress and nearly sent me mad. However, pleasing it was to picture Isabella in place of those trees. I wasn't fond of the repercussions it caused. Being sent to Elizabeth. She's been extremely unpleasant since her castle was swindled by the ex-wife of Clara. They aren't on speaking terms.

I understand that Ambrose believes that it is I that should hold that cursed blade but honestly, it should be given to Alexandra... I remember how beastly she was with her training with the distantly forgotten Glinda Beckham. Alexandra becomes little more than an animal with that thing in her hands. She will be just fine against those creatures, but I understand Ambrose's fear of Bella. Especially after having seen such, gifts. I felt the unbridled warmth overheat and steam rolled off my body in spirals as I pictured how glamorous and intimate those offerings were. How dare she. Sending such things to Alexandra. It's disrespectful to my heart and our bond, this woman, is pushing it. She knows that Alexandra has expressed a desire to be left alone by her in such endeavors as love. She's imprudent. She would do well to learn her place. Dead.

I kept thinking of ways to shove it to that Isabella as I found my way to Elizabeth. She was up in the trees. Away from everyone and everything, the elves had a vast set of trees that were connected by bridges. They were extremely high off the ground. I felt my stomach flip as I climbed up the ladder that lead to them. The entire time I climbed. I kept my eyes up. An arrow snapped through and passed me.

"I'm friendly."

"I don't have friends."

Another arrow whizzed passed

"Hey!"

"What do you want?! Answer quickly or I won't miss the next time."

"I was sent by Ambrose." An arrow hit just between my fingers. My hand slipped off a wooden rung and I almost plummeted."okay, ok! Look, I just need the sword. He appeared to insinuate you had it. I'll be on my way. Just don't shoot." I began climbing down fastly.

"Hold up. It's up here."

I was apprehensive but I decided it best to retrieve the thing. I had come all this way. This time. She didn't shoot at me. Upon reaching the top deck of the tree house. I noticed it was more of a shooting blind. Hidden by the foliage of the tree limbs. I entered the small shack up there and saw she was sitting in a small chair, a bow in hand, it aimed directly at my face. The sword was leaning against the grubby wall.

"You needed to do that."

"I don't trust anyone and with how I'm feeling I should stay away from people, just get the thing and be on your way."

"Why was it up here anyhow?"

"Keeping it from the princess and the fae."

I nodded my head and carefully walked along the creaky floor that if fallen through would be the end of my life. It freaked me out. The mean witch snickered at my obvious discomfort with heights. I snagged the precious metal and found that I was even more uncomfortable holding it, as I'd have to carry it down.

"Oh you're ridiculous, you look perplexed. Just levitate the thing and spell it to follow you around. While you're at it. Send up something to eat."

"Or, you could get something yourself. I'm not sure why everyone thinks I'm the errand girl. I'm not."

"Whatever."

"Besides, um, could you help me practice? Ambrose has deemed me the wielder of this ghastly instrument."

"You're to kill Bella? Hm. I'm surprised Alexandra would let you near her. With what I know of them. She's more likely to turn dark and join the little bitch."

"She wouldn't."

"Supposedly, she's gone dark in the past, went nuts, and killed us all. Who's to say it won't happen again? You saw how she lost it at viewing those elves. Do you think Bella will stop killing? Each death that comes destroys Alexandra a bit more. When her soul is completely shattered and her mind is gone, Bella will just take her, then she'll be the perfect little doll for her. It's sick but I swear those two are just drawn to each other. Worse than anything I've ever seen... I'll help you if only to save my hide from extinction."

Elizabeth was quite disturbing. She calmly rose from her chair and levitated out the entrance. I was standing there alone for a second as I pondered the moment I had with Alexandra. She said she wants to move on. I best believe her. I best get a move on too... otherwise... no. They all denigrate Alexandra out of grief but they must know she'd never. Right?

"Are you coming?"

I didn't waste any time, the way down was much quicker. Although it wasn't a pleasant landing. We sort of plopped. I wasn't expecting that the second I had time to stand that I would be accosted. Elizabeth must have transfigured her bow into a sword and it slashed against my side and blood poured freely from me. I screeched out and attacked. We slashed and thrashed at each other for a good hour, by then I was filthy and funky. I was tired but I couldn't sleep like this... especially not with Alexandra. so I found myself wandering and thinking. Mostly about Alex and... seeing that negligee burned something inside me that I hadn't known was there. I do have emotions towards Alexandra but I hadn't felt desire until that moment. I pictured it on her. She would have been divine in it. This Isabella is a problem and one that will be dealt with. Especially because I don't have much of a choice...I stared at the blade in my hand. This thing looks blindingly beautiful just as she does. But is she beautiful on the inside? She's ill, so her decisions aren't clear, I don't judge her actions because well. I can't. So why can't I make love to her? That question pondered until I passed a river...

It was filled with ugly little fish. Each one with scales of a strange piss yellow. The water was clear at least. It left a distinct smell in the air of rotting wood and wet soil. The trees here were covered in moss. The sword at the edge of the river. I hobbled into it and just sat. It was freezing but I didn't care. My shabby second-hand clothes were soaking around me. The lingering odor of sweat and blood disappeared as the roaring river cleaned. My eyes were closed. Until I felt a scaly thing plop right against my lap and heard a roaring laugh. I hadn't expected it to be occupied. Nor had I expected to find her in such glory, such magnificent beauty. Alexandra was about twenty paces from me and completely nude as she stood in the river watching me bathe clothed. That explains it. I'm a prude, I can't even bathe in the nude, this is ridiculous! I awkwardly waved at the naked woman.

"Uhh, what are you doing out here?"

"Same as you I guess." She called as she raced through the water to me. Those luscious jugs of hers bounced with her.

"I just mean, um, my liege you're..." I could feel the heat rise to my cheeks despite the chill." Shouldn't you be worried about someone seeing? Or something seeing?"

"Do you know how odd you look, all wet in your clothes..."

"They were dirty too."

"Ah."

She sat next to me. The water rushed around the curvature of her body. It caressed each roll of her stomach and kissed the sides of her sweet thighs. I eyes the beautiful bounty of breast and wondered what they would feel like in my hands. What the little nubs would feel like inside my mouth. Would she moan if I bit? Would she let me explore her to my desire? I couldn't resist but cover her up with myself. Holding her against me, that foreign desire felt boiling between my thighs. She didn't stop me. She took the time she had to hold my face, gazing into my eyes and silently asking. "Kiss me," I said with a wanton groan. Her hands slipped into my sweat and water-slicked hair and gently massaged it. Our faces close together. Our breath mixed as we held our mouths too close. I couldn't take it. We smashed our lips in a passionate debate of longing and sadness. Tears poured from both our eyes as moans drifted as we finally connected.

The deep moment ended with her hands tugging at my soaked clothes. They stuck to my sleek body like tape, suctioning. She was frustrated and scratched those nails against me in the most delightful way. I finally tossed her back and kissed everything I could. Tickling her as I tried to feel every inch of her body. Finally, I

spread her thighs. I was wild at the sight of her twat. It's hidden by a tuft of wet black curls. I desired to sniff them. To capture her scent. So I did. I enjoyed every huff. I got high on the fumes until I couldn't help but drag my tongue across the little slit. Her beautiful moans and groans were worth the wait to slip my tongue inside. I slipped it in and out with a single finger. Twisting and curling inside as she mewled. Thrusting her hips for more. So I gave more. Sticking another finger inside her, then another and another, I gave and gave until she screamed. By the end, she was begging to please me but I couldn't. I wasn't ready. So I gently closed her legs. Kissed her thighs and up to her beautiful belly. Until I could suckle on a perky nipple. Then I lifted that wonderful woman in my arms. Her legs are around my waist. Her arms locked around my neck. I let her titty fall from my mouth and thanked her for the most amazing experience but it was time for bed. I carried her outof the water and towards that sword of hers and transported us back to that hut.

We laid out curled together until dawn. However, at some point, I had fallen asleep, while she snuck away with that blade of hers. The rest of the morning all you heard was the thwack of it against a tree. Thwack, slash, thwack, slash. It woke me. I was missing her next to me but I wasn't worried we each grunt she made echoed. She was enraged. Deeply enraged and full of vigor. You could hear how frustrated Isabella had made her. I couldn't help but blush at my questioning of loyalty because of Frosts suggesting. Of course she's angry. She should be. Of course she's not thinking of Isabella and that negligee. No. She didn't even see it. She doesn't care for her that way anymore. She's mine. Not hers. I must remind myself of that in times of fretting. My emotions were still all over the place.l as I remembered what I had done hours before and gently rubbed against my hand, that's right, she's mine! I rubbed and fingered until I squished and squelched and whispered her name.

By the time I was finished. The thwacking has stopped and a silence overcame the camp. A deathly ill. I was heaving and shallow breathing. Clutching at my breasts and rubbing my things together. Holding on to the last moment of bliss. Why? Today is the day. Today is the last day that we shall be celebrating as from now on. Hence forward. We will be leaving the land of the living and entering the world of the dead. How pleasant.