Ancient Secrets
Chapter 1
" No! I will never let you use my child for such a plan! "
" You mistake me. I was not asking for permission. "
" I will die before I allow it! "
" If that is your choice, I will be happy to end your life once my child is born. Until then, You will remain here. "
A Few Days Later
" What on earth... " An older woman looked shocked as she opened her front door before a much younger woman wearing a knee length dress spoke shakily as she shivered.
" Please... Please help me... My baby... " The young groaned painfully as she put her hands on her stomach before breathing raggedly as the older woman beckoned her forward.
" Come inside dear. You'll freeze to death out here. " Once inside, The older woman continued. " Where did you come from? Who are you? "
" My name is Nyllani Vissity. I lived in the mountains with my... Well... Ex-husband... He owns the castle at the peak. But he is not who I thought. Please... My baby is coming... Please help me... I cannot let him have my baby... " Nyllani spoke shakily before crying out pain as the old woman left the house.
After several minutes, The old woman returned with a few others. One of which was carrying a large bowl and another was carrying towels. After helping Nyllani to her feet and tenderly walking her to a bed, The old woman helped Nyllani lie down before speaking calmly.
" We know of the man on the mountain. We know what he is. I pity you child. It will not be easy to run from him. Nor hide. " The old woman sighed softly before Nyllani cried out in pain before carefully removing Nyllani's underwear as she spoke softly. " That can wait. Push child. Push. "
Five Hours Later
Nyllani breathed exhaustively as the old woman handed her baby to her and spoke calmly as the baby cried.
" A beautiful little girl. What will you name her? " The old woman smiled as Nyllani held her daughter and cried happily.
" Silvina. " Nyllani smiled as she took in the sight of her daughter. Although being small, Silvina was beautiful. Her head had a layer of thick, Raven black hair and her eyes were a bright ocean blue colour. As Silvina made soft noises and reached toward Nyllani, She cried and sighed happily as Silvina gripped and held her finger tightly before the old woman spoke.
" Take a few days to rest. But you will need to leave as soon as possible. That abomination will come looking for you. Do you have somewhere to go? " The old woman had a hopeful look in her eyes as Nyllani spoke.
" My family lives on the coast. I'll start there. " Nyllani smiled as the old woman nodded before Nyllani gently rocked Silvina in her arms.
Two Weeks Later
" Oh, She is gorgeous! "
" Isn't she precious? " Nyllani smiled as her mother held Silvina while Silvina laughed happily.
" The most precious. But sweetheart, What compelled you to come without telling us? I am not complaining but it's so sudden. " Nyllani's mother made soft cooing noises as Silvina laughed and smiled happily before Nyllani sighed and spoke slowly.
" You were right mum. He was never with me for love. I was a means to an end. He wants to experiment on her. Turn her into a monster. I can't allow it. I need help. " Nyllani looked saddened as her mother smiled.
" Sweetheart, You gave birth two weeks ago. You need rest. Your body will not have fully recovered yet. Stay with us for a few weeks and then we will decide what to do. " Nyllani's mother smiled sweetly as Nyllani nodded.
Five Weeks Later
" Are you sure? " Nyllani spoke cautiously but sighed softly as her mother pulled her close and hugged her lovingly as Silvina made small noises before Nyllani's mother spoke.
" We don't use that house anyway. Go and get settled in. We will visit in a week or two to make sure you are doing okay. Just enjoy your time with Silvina. " Nyllani's mother kissed her head gently before cooing toward Silvina, Who laughed happily as Nyllani cried happily.
" Thank you so much mum. I was worried that after everything I said you would turn me away but... " Nyllani sobbed softly before her mother kissed her cheek gently.
" Never my sweet. You will always be my daughter, No matter what you do or say. Now get going. Don't miss your flight and remember to feed Silvina before you board the plane. " Nyllani's mother smiled sweetly as Nyllani leant against her for a moment before getting into the waiting airport bus as the driver loaded her baggage into the luggage compartment. As the bus pulled away, Nyllani's mother waved happily.
After an hour on the bus and checking in at airport security, Nyllani was breast feeding Silvina while looking around the airport nervously. Each time she spotted someone looking toward her, A feeling of dread and concern filled her heart and mind. As she finished feeding Silvina, Nyllani fixed her bra and shirt before hurrying toward the gate for her flight as the staff started boarding passengers.
Five Years Later
" I still don't fully understand what the other children are saying mum. It makes me feel awkward... " Silvina spoke nervously as Nyllani knelt down and brushed her hair out of the way before speaking.
" You have been studying the language every night. Just remember to speak calmly. You are doing great sweety. Just a little more practice and you will have it down. " Nyllani smiled sweetly as a young girl ran over to Silvina and spoke quickly.
" Shira-chan! Kite asonde kudasai! " The young girl giggled happily as Silvina smiled and spoke shakily.
" Watashi wa... Sugu soko ni iru Ako-chan... " Silvina smiled nervously as the young girl smiled and ran toward the playground before Nyllani spoke.
" See? You pronounced everything perfectly sweetheart. You have nothing to be nervous about. Just breathe okay? The school will call me if you need to come home. Just go to the nurse. " Nyllani held Silvina tightly for a moment before kissing her head gently and leaning down as she whispered. " You can invite your friends over on the weekend if you like. "
" Thanks mum... I might... " Silvina smiled nervously before hurrying over to the playground where a few other young girls were waving to her happily.
A Few Hours Later
Nyllani ran toward the school yard as sirens and smoke filled the air. As she arrived, She saw Silvina run down the side of the building followed by a darkened silhouette. After running toward the rear of the school, Nyllani rounded the corner to see Silvina huddled against a wall in terror as a familiar voice filled Nyllani's ears.
" She had no right to take you. You belong to me. Get up. "
" Leave me alone... Please... I didn't do anything wrong... " Silvina sobbed softly before the silhouette reached toward her before Nyllani spoke forcefully.
" Confringo! " Nyllani raised her arm as the spell erupted from the palm of her hand and slammed into the silhouette, Sending it rocketing across the schoolyard as Silvina stood and ran over to Nyllani who wrapped her arms around Silvina quickly before disapparating. As they reappeared in the house, Nyllani raised her hands before their clothes, Silvina's toys and their keepsakes filled a large suitcase while she sent a text message to her mother before disapparating again.
Two Hours Later
" I am really going to miss Japan. I liked the food. I will miss my friends too. Ako and Toya would have been so sad. " Silvina sighed sadly as she looked at a photo of herself with her two friends.
" I miss Japan too sweety. But we had to leave. It wasn't safe there anymore. I am sorry sweetheart. I will explain everything when you are older. " Nyllani smiled reassuringly before giggling softly. " At least we can eat lots of sweets here. "
" Not that I'm complaining but I just learned Japanese and now I have to learn another language? I just... " Silvina sighed irritably before humming softly as Nyllani pulled Silvina onto her lap and held her lovingly.
" It's hard for me too sweety. I want to give you a good life and a good childhood and... I am sorry... It's all my fault but I just want to keep you safe... " Nyllani sobbed softly as Silvina nuzzled against her chest gently for a few minutes before speaking as Nyllani stopped sobbing and wiped her tears away.
" Is grandma meeting us? " Silvina smiled happily as Nyllani nodded and stood before pulling the suitcase along to avoid attracting attention. After a few minutes of walking, Nyllani and Silvina smiled as Nyllani's mother waved to them before walking over and speaking.
" I was surprised to get your message. What happened? " Nyllani's mother spoke softly as Silvina hugged her legs gently before Nyllani spoke.
" He found her. Attacked her preschool. He tried to take her but I hit him with Confringo. " Nyllani sighed audibly as her mother smiled and spoke.
" You are lucky that your father and I travelled in our youth. And had money to ensure private housing. " Nyllani's mother smiled again before handing a key to Nyllani and continuing. " The house is within walking distance of a newly built school. As always, Be careful and let me know if you need anything. Oh, And use a stronger spell next time. The longer you can avoid him, The better. "
Nyllani's mother motioned to walk away before stopping and kneeling down as she spoke to Silvina. " I have something for you little cherry. Here. " Nyllani's mother held her hand out toward Silvina before Silvina looked down to see a small, Silver, Feather shaped pendant before speaking softly.
" It's so pretty. Thank you grandma. " Silvina smiled brightly as she took the charm before Nyllani's mother smiled and disapparated.
One Year Later
" You learned French faster than Japanese sweetheart. I am very proud of you. " Nyllani smiled as Silvina pouted before speaking.
" I still miss Japan. I am glad you let me send Ako letters though. But I like the friends I have here as well. " Silvina sighed before smiling as Nyllani giggled softly.
" Now now, No pouting on your birthday darling. I got you a present that will cheer you up. " Nyllani smiled happily before walking over to a cupboard and speaking. " Close your eyes. "
After sighing softly, Silvina closed her eyes and waited. As she heard the sound of something being placed on the table in front of her, Silvina resisted the urge to open her eyes before Nyllani spoke softly.
" Okay sweety... You can look. " Nyllani breathed slowly as Silvina opened her eyes and gasped loudly.
Sitting on the table was a brand new broom with a custom seat that had a soft cushion and a set of glimmering silver footrests. The handle was polished and the bristles were carefully arranged into a neat point and the handle had a wrap around it to help with gripping the broom. As Silvina stood and ran her fingers over the broom slowly, Nyllani spoke again.
" It's a Firebolt. Took a while to add the customisation's and arrange the bristles but I had hoped you would like it. You always watch me fly and I thought you would like to learn. " Nyllani smiled warmly as Silvina froze for a moment before speaking softly.
" I don't like it. " Silvina spoke coldly, Causing Nyllani to look taken aback before a saddened expression adorned her face for a moment as Silvina whirled around with a bright smile on her face as she spoke again. " I love it! Thank you so much mum! It's gorgeous... "
Nyllani breathed out slowly before hugging Silvina tightly. " You little beastie... You gave me such a fright. I put so much love into it and to hear you say you don't like it... "
" How could I not? It's beautiful! When can I fly it? " Silvina looked as if she would explode with excitement before Nyllani giggled and spoke.
" It will be best to learn on a slower broom sweetheart. The Firebolt is easily the fastest broom available and I don't want you to get hurt. I got a couple of training brooms so I can fly with you. We can start tomorrow morning since it is the weekend. You finished your homework didn't you? " Nyllani smiled as Silvina nodded and bounced up and down excitedly before picking up her broom and rushing off to her bedroom as Nyllani giggled happily.
Two Years Later
" Finished flying for today sweetheart? " Nyllani spoke calmly with a smile before Silvina shook her head with a look of terror on her face, Causing Nyllani to stand quickly and rush outside. As she looked around, She saw a silhouette walking toward her as the voice that filled the air caused her to tremble lightly.
" You have improved. It is getting harder to find you. "
" Room for improvement. Now piss off. You will never have her. " Nyllani gritted her teeth as laughter filled the air.
" You are mistaken. She is already mine. That I do not have her in my possession is a question of time. I will make her the future of my kind and you will beg for death at her hands before she remakes this world. "
" Not on your life. Says a lot for one of your kind. Now one last time, Piss off. " Nyllani growled warningly as sparks erupted from her hands for a moment.
" You do not scare me girl. "
" You forget who you are talking to. Exilium! " Nyllani spoke forcefully before a ray of shimmering silver energy exploded from the palm of her hand before splitting and forming strands around the silhouette before the silhouette disappeared in a yell of rage. As the silhouette disappeared, Nyllani ran inside and sent a message to her mother.
After helping Silvina pack and packing her own belongings, Nyllani paused as her phone rang. As she answered, Her mother spoke softly.
" Meet me where your father proposed. I will have everything arranged. " Nyllani's mother spoke calmly before hanging up as Silvina rushed over to Nyllani and they disapparated.
Four Hours Later
Nyllani sighed exhaustively as they appeared before looking around. As Silvina looked around she saw a large sign that read: Glacier National Park
" Where are we mum? " Silvina looked toward Nyllani who was struggling to catch her breathe before a familiar voice filled the air.
" America. More specifically, Montana. " Nyllani's mother spoke sweetly as Silvina smiled excitedly.
" Grandma! " Silvina ran over and hugged Nyllani's mother tightly as she giggled and spoke.
" Hello my sweet little cherry. Look how big you are getting. " Nyllani's mother petted Silvina's head gently as Silvina grinned happily before Nyllani managed to regain her breathe and spoke hoarsely.
" I am sorry to keep doing this to you mum. He is relentless. " Nyllani sighed exhaustively before her mother smiled and spoke.
" On that note, Everything has been arranged. The house is in the city of Helena. It is the capital here. " Nyllani's mother paused as she exchanged keys with Nyllani along with a piece of parchment with an address on it and a small envelope before continuing. " The Magical Congress is aware of your arrival and has given you permission to live here normally and use magic without supervision. A representative will be by tomorrow to introduce you to the local community and show you how to access the magical shopping district. Your disapparition licence has been transferred as well. All you need to do is go home and rest. Once you are settled in, Call me and let me know. "
" Thank you so much mum. I know it is a lot of work. " Nyllani smiled as she walked over and hugged her mother tightly as she spoke.
" Not at all dear. Now get going. There is a taxi waiting that will take you to your new home. The fare has already been paid. " Nyllani's mother smiled before walking behind the sign and disapparating as Nyllani and Silvina walked to the taxi and got in before giving the driver the address.
Three Hours, Thirty Minutes Later
After thanking the taxi driver, Nyllani and Silvina walked into the house and sat on the lounge before Silvina spoke calmly.
" At least I don't have to learn a new language here. If the taxi driver was any indication I mean. " Silvina smiled before yawning as Nyllani petted her head gently.
" True. For now I think, We both need some sleep. " Nyllani kissed Silvina's head gently before carrying her to a bedroom and tucking her in. After closing the door to Silvina's room, Nyllani had a cup of tea before stretching out on the lounge and falling asleep.
The Next Day
After waking up and having a cup of coffee and coughing at the cheap taste and bitterness before wishing she still had access to french coffee, Nyllani made breakfast and set the table as Silvina walked out of the bedroom and yawned softly.
" Good morning sweetheart. Big day today. We need to go shopping and the representative from congress will be here soon so eat up and go have a shower okay? " Nyllani smiled as Silvina yawned again before nodding and sitting down while Nyllani put some toast, Eggs, Bacon and glass of juice on the table in front of Silvina as she continued. " I gotta hand it to grandma. She is always ready for us. "
" She is just magic that way. " Silvina smirked playfully before eating her breakfast and walking to the bathroom to have a shower. After eating breakfast herself, Nyllani waited for Silvina to finish before showering and changing into a simple set of every day clothes. As she walked back to the living room, The doorbell rang.
Upon answering the door, Nyllani was met by a young woman, Looking to be in her late twenties, With deep purple hair and icy blue eyes, Smiling toward her before speaking politely.
" Good morning. My name is Octavia Cadence. I am here representing the Magical Congress of the United States of America. Most specifically, The Montana branch of the Wizarding Resources Department. I have been assigned as your liaison and investigator to determine the cause of your arrival here and to check the status of your daughter's magical abilities. " Octavia smiled sweetly as Nyllani reached out and shook her hand gently.
" Nyllani Vissity. My daughter, Silvina is still getting ready. Can I invite you in for a cup of coffee? Though I apologise... The coffee is... Well... Mediocre. " Nyllani giggled softly before standing aside so Octavia could enter the house. As she sat down on one of the armchairs, Octavia spoke calmly.
" Compared to your previous residence near Paris, I imagine the coffee you have on hand is quite the difference. However, We do have a lovely coffee shop in our shopping district that stocks international coffee blends. I imagine one of their selections would better suit your tastes. " Octavia smiled sweetly as Nyllani placed a plate of pastries on the table before fetching a pot of hot water, A set of cups, Sugar, Milk, A jar of coffee and a pack of teabags. After handing a cup to Octavia, Nyllani spoke softly.
" While I am eager to get started, I must ask why it is necessary to assess Silvina's magical abilities. " Nyllani spoke calmly before sipping her tea as Octavia stirred her tea slowly while speaking.
" To ensure that she is in control of any magic she may be capable of. It is a standard test that is also performed prior to entering a magical school such as Ilvermony. It helps to ascertain how developed a young witch or wizard may be prior to formal education. It also allows Congress to ensure that particularly gifted witches and wizards are documented and monitored to ensure the safety of said witch or wizard and the people around them through a liaison such as myself. " Octavia blew her tea to cool it slightly before sipping it slowly as Nyllani spoke.
" I see. It isn't invasive is it? " Nyllani spoke cautiously but smiled as Octavia giggled and spoke.
" Not at all! Our Department of Magical Research made this little device that connects to a small pad placed on the persons temple. Through small subsonic waves, It can accurately measure the magical capabilities and give a readout based on a numerical system. The higher the score, The more gifted the person is with magic. " Octavia smiled before reaching into her handbag and producing a small handheld screen, Similar to a smartphone, and a circular, Sticky pad.
" That is far less intrusive than I would have expected. " Nyllani smiled approvingly as Silvina walked out of her bedroom and sat beside Nyllani on the lounge as Nyllani spoke calmly. " Silvina, This is Octavia Cadence. She is our liaison with the Magical Congress. She will be showing us around today. But she needs to do a small test first. "
" Test? Haven't I been poked and prodded enough in the past? " Silvina pouted irritably as Nyllani giggled before Octavia smiled sweetly and spoke.
" Actually, I neither need to poke nor prod you. I only need you to place this little pad on your temple. " Octavia held the pad toward Silvina as she looked toward Nyllani, Who nodded reassuringly. After sighing softly, Silvina took the pad and pressed it against her temple before Octavia spoke.
" Okay, Just a moment... " Octavia pressed the screen of the small device, Causing it to make several beeping noises before falling silent for a few minutes. As Silvina wondered why it was taking so long, The device beeped loudly before the screen lit up bright red, Causing Octavia to gasp loudly. " My goodness... I have never seen someone get a readout like this... "
" Is that good or bad? " Nyllani spoke nervously as Silvina handed the pad back to Octavia, Who smiled brightly before speaking.
" Oh, It's magnificent! We haven't had a witch so gifted before. Seeing you grow as a witch will be particularly special to witness. The local Congress members will want to meet her at some point, But for now we can focus on shopping. I can file my report and the test results later. I don't want to stress either of you out too much given that you have only been here so short a time. Let us head to the shopping district and then I can introduce you to some key members of our community after a bit of lunch. " Octavia smiled warmly as Nyllani smiled and nodded before they all stood and left the house.
After a short walk, Octavia led them to what looked like a small office building. As they entered, The attendant at the front desk smiled and spoke.
" Miss Cadence! Off to work? " The man at the desk smiled warmly as Octavia giggled and spoke.
" Not today Blake. I am showing new arrivals to the shopping district. " Octavia smiled sweetly as Blake stepped out from behind the counter and walked over to what appeared to be a decorative, Metallic sculpture, Resembling growing tree branches that covered almost the entire wall.
" Shopping district it is. Mind your heads now. " Blake tapped on the wall several times with what appeared to be a walking stick before sitting back behind his desk as the visible wall below the sculptures branches lit up with a swirling, Eery purple glow before the glow softened and Octavia spoke.
" This is one of our better creations from the research department. It is similar to a port-key but far less physically off putting. Think of it like a big door. Step through when you are ready. " Octavia smiled as she waited patiently for a few minutes before Nyllani and Silvina walked through the frame. As they emerged from the other side, Nyllani and Silvina sighed at the sight.
The shopping district was massive. There were shops of every kind and the streets were wide and easily navigable with map boards every few hundred metres. Lining the main avenue were rows of food vendors selling treats and delicacies of every kind while leaving the footpath open for pedestrians to easily walk between the vendors and shopfronts. After looking around excitedly, Nyllani and Silvina gasped in shock as Octavia spoke from behind them.
" Allow me to show you to the coffee shop. It might be busy given it is still early but you can sit and enjoy a coffee and treat while I go to the administration building and get the documents I need you to sign. Little things I promise. For now, A caffeine fix. " Octavia smiled sweetly before leading them to a lavish looking coffee shop that was filled with cushioned chairs and long, Curved bench seats. After looking over to the counter and realising there was only a few people lined up, Octavia recommended a coffee blend before leaving the shop as Nyllani and Silvina lined up.
Once they reached the counter, The server smiled brightly and spoke calmly. " Welcome. What can I get you today? "
" I will have a Noisette please. Can you recommend anything for my daughter? " Nyllani smiled warmly before the server looked toward Silvina and smiled.
" Actually, If she would like to test our two new recipes, Designed specifically for children, She will dine at no cost. Most of our regulars aren't open to new ideas and convincing parents to let children try something new is a bit of a trick around here. " The server smiled as Nyllani nodded her approval before continuing. " Excellent. Our new recipes are a drink and a cheesecake. The drink is a tropical fruit smoothie using milk made from macadamia nuts and the cheesecake is made using coconut cream and a rather rich chocolate, Caramel blend. Does that sound good? "
As the server looked toward Silvina again, She giggled at how excited Silvina looked and that she was drooling a little before smiled and speaking again. " I'll take that as a yes. Your order comes to three Dragot's. "
" I apologise... I only have Bezant with me. We moved here from France yesterday and I haven't had a chance to visit the currency exchange. " Nyllani held out a handful of coins before the server smiled and took three before speaking.
" We accept all Wizarding currency at this shop using equal conversion rate so there is no problem with new arrivals or tourists. Please take a seat at table thirteen and I will bring your order to you shortly. " The server smiled sweetly as Nyllani thanked her before leading Silvina to the table and sitting down. After a few minutes, The server walked over carrying a tray.
" Here we are. One Noisette and a tropical smoothie with a slice of cheesecake. Enjoy your meal! " The server smiled politely as Nyllani handed her a few coins as a tip before looking toward Silvina to see her eyes all but bulging out of her head while staring at the size of the smoothie before giggling and speaking softly.
" It's okay sweety. You can enjoy your treat. " Nyllani smiled as Silvina smiled brightly before picking up the smoothie and taking a big sip. As the flavours filled her mouth, Silvina's face lit up with joy and she sighed happily as Nyllani sipped her coffee and sighed contently at the quality and flavour. " Now that's coffee. "
" This cheesecake is so good! Try a bit mum! " Silvina grinned as she held up a small spoon with a scoop of cheesecake on it. After taking the spoon, Nyllani popped the cheesecake into her mouth before handing the spoon back to Silvina, Who quickly returned her attention to her treats as Nyllani sighed softly.
" A bit sweet for my tastes but quite delicious isn't it? " Nyllani smiled softly as the server walked over and placed a plate in front of Silvina that had a small burger and some curly potato chips on it before speaking.
" A compliment from our chef as a thank you for trying the new items. Were they to your liking little one? " The server smiled as Silvina's face lit up with happiness and she nodded excitedly before speaking.
" It's my favourite! The smoothie is so yummy and I could eat the cheesecake every day! Thank you! " Silvina smiled brightly as the server petted her head gently.
" Such a lovely young lady. Please enjoy your meal! " The server smiled before walking back to the counter as Silvina picked up the burger and took a bite before sighing happily at the flavours.
" Lucky girl. You might need a nap after all this food. " Nyllani giggled happily as Silvina demolished the curly chips and hamburger before finishing her cheesecake and leaning back into her chair as she slowly sipped on her smoothie with a satisfied look on her face while Nyllani continued sipping her coffee slowly, Savouring the taste.
After about half an hour, Octavia walked into the shop and sat beside Nyllani as she spoke.
" Okay, The three forms I need you to sign is your wand permit, Your citizenship application and your residential ownership form. Then we can go shopping. " Octavia smiled before handing a quill to Nyllani, Who quickly signed all three forms before handing the quill back to Octavia as Silvina finished her smoothie and sighed happily as Octavia continued. " Excellent! You are all set. Welcome to the United States Of America. Now, Are there any shops in particular you wish to visit? "
" Thank you and yes. I would like to visit a bookstore, A gardening store and if possible, A store that might stock or know where I can get some potion supplies. I like to make my own medicine and remedies as a hobby. " Nyllani smiled as Octavia giggled and spoke.
" We have all those shops right here in Serenity Plaza. The name of our shopping district was selected based on our shopping district being a designated neutral zone. Any wizard or witch from any country is welcome here regardless of social standing, Ethnicity, Beliefs or magical capability. The governing body in the plaza is very strict about tolerance and acceptance and responds very seriously to any breach of etiquette. " Octavia smiled before they stood and walked out of the coffee shop and across the bustling street to one of the multiple bookstores in the plaza as Octavia spoke. " Is there a particular book you are looking for? "
" Actually I was hoping to find a recipe book for potions to compare to the ones I have from France and Japan. In case there are recipes I don't have in those. Also, A book on Herbology would be perfect to assist with my hobby. Growing my own potion ingredients will save time and money. " Nyllani smiled as Octavia guided her to a nearby book shelf but failed to notice her wand fall out of her pocket as she walked.
" Mum you... " Silvina sighed as she realised that Nyllani didn't hear her before looking down. " Dropped your wand. I'll just bring it to you. " Silvina leant down and picked up her mothers wand but gasped loudly as a torrent of flames shot out of it, Setting a small pile of books on fire before Nyllani whirled around and rushed over. As Silvina dropped the wand, A shop clerk ran over and doused the fire before Nyllani apologised profusely and handed the clerk a handful of coins to pay for the damaged books before turning to Silvina and speaking shakily as Silvina cried softly.
" Sweety are you hurt? Show me where it hurts. " Nyllani looked over Silvina quickly but sighed as Silvina shook her head and spoke sadly.
" I didn't mean to I swear! I just wanted to bring your wand back because it fell out of your pocket... I promise I didn't mean to... " Silvina sobbed softly as Nyllani pulled her close and held her lovingly.
" Nevermind that sweetheart . I am just glad you aren't hurt. " Nyllani sighed in relief as Silvina slowly stopped sobbing before a young woman with wine red hair, Light green eyes and tanned skin with what appeared to be tribal tattoos depicting what appeared to be several wolves howling at the full moon, Walked over and spoke.
" You are quite a special flower little one. What is your name? " The young woman smiled warmly as Silvina wiped her tears away and spoke nervously.
" Silvina... Silvina Vissity... " Silvina was clearly unsettled meeting someone new but seemed to relax as the young woman spoke soothingly.
" My name is Ayasha Wolfe. You can call me by either my first or last name. I own a wand shop here in the plaza. Why don't you come by and I can make you a wand that will match that unique personality of yours. " Ayasha smiled warmly as Silvina looked up at Nyllani who nodded calmly before Silvina looked back at Ayasha and nodded before Octavia sighed and spoke.
" Every time Ayasha... Must you make more work for me every time I have new arrivals? " Octavia pouted irritably as Ayasha stood and poked her cheek gently.
" I am not doing it to make more work for you. Silvina is special. Surely your test told you that much. A typical wand will not be suitable for her. Now stop your pouting and come along. I will need you to witness signing her wand permit. " Ayasha spoke warmly before motioning for Silvina and Nyllani to follow her. After a few minutes, They followed Ayasha into a large shop that had shelves covered in little boxes containing pre-made wands of all kinds. After following Ayasha through the rows of shelves, They walked through a back door into an obvious workshop that had several benches and several shelves that held things like wand handles, Different types of wood and several containers holding different core materials.
After Nyllani and Octavia sat on chairs to the side of the workshop, Ayasha led Silvina to the core materials as she spoke calmly.
" While many wand makers simply try out different wands that are already made, When I make a custom wand, I like to have the witch or wizard look through my core materials and select a material that su... " Ayasha froze as a large feather floated out of one of the containers and landed on the bench in front of Silvina. " Well... That's a first... "
" Materials don't do that normally? " Silvina looked confused as Ayasha looked toward her in shock.
" Uhm... No. No they do not. You really are quite special. Hmm... Thunderbird tail feather. I have never made a wand with that material before. It will need a particularly strong wood to be effective... Perhaps oak or yew... Maybe even... " Ayasha froze again as a medium sized piece of Acacia wood floated down and landed next to the tail feather. " Alright... Now you are showing off. " Ayasha smiled teasingly as Silvina giggled softly before looking toward the wand handles on the wall.
" I like that one... " Silvina pointed toward a handle that had a soft wrap for gripping the wand that was wrapped around what appeared to be black, Carefully shaped stone with a small purple crystal embedded into the bottom.
" Interesting choice. Black marble with a Thestral hair wrap and amethyst pommel. That should pair well with your wand. Now then, You can watch me work but no touching. Wand making is a delicate process. " Ayasha spoke sternly but smiled as she took the handle off the shelf and examined it. " Hmm... One inch diameter at the base. Might need to be a longer shaft... Maybe half or three quarter inch thick at the tip... " Ayasha thought for a moment before picking up the Acacia wood and fitting it onto a machine. When the machine turned on, The wood started spinning rapidly before Ayasha handed a pair of goggles to Silvina, Who promptly put them on as Ayasha put on a pair as well. After putting on the goggles, Ayasha picked up a small chisel and held it firmly before slowly pressing it against the wood, Causing shavings to fly everywhere as the wood slowly took shape.
Two Hours Later
" Alright. Lets get the handle fitted and secured." Ayasha spoke calmly as she turned off the machine and waited for the wood to stop spinning before taking the wand off the machine and dusting herself off. After sitting down at the workbench, Ayasha picked up what appeared to be a small rod with grooves in it before turning it on, Causing the grooved part to spin rapidly. As the tool spun rapidly, Ayasha turned the wand so the thicker end was facing her and pressed the tool to it, Causing it to form a hole in the wand. After the hole was deep enough, Ayasha turned off the tool and placed it on the workbench before picking up the Thunderbird tail feather and gently pushing it into the hole followed by a handful of shavings. Once the hole was full of shavings, Ayasha tipped a sticky looking resin into the hole, Filling it to the top as Silvina spoke.
" You could have done this with magic right? " Silvina looked confused as Ayasha giggled softly before speaking.
" Of-course I could. But where is the fun in that? Besides, Making wands by hand is a tradition in my family. We have always made wands this way and they always work better than those pre-made mass production wands on the shelves out there. I only sell those because not every witch or wizard needs a custom made wand. Making a wand this way makes it far more unique than most wands. " Ayasha smiled as the resin quickly solidified before putting on a glove and dipping the wand into what appeared to be black liquid. After pulling the wand out of the liquid, Ayasha spoke calmly.
" This liquid will seal the wood and protect it from damage if you drop it or get disarmed. " Ayasha smiled as she held the wand up to a light that was giving off heat, Forcing the liquid to quickly harden before she checked that the handle would fit. " You chose perfectly. It fits like a glove. "
Ayasha smiled before tipping a small amount of the resin into the handle and sliding the wand into it before waiting for the resin to solidify as she spoke again. " My family believes that making wands like this gives them more personality. That it makes them alive in a way. Imparting the maker into the wand during creation makes it strong and having that wand bond to the person it was made for bonds the maker to them in turn. Like how you might make friends and become closer over time or how a sibling will start out tormenting you and over time become very close to you. "
" I think I understand... It makes the connection between wand maker and wand user special. You aren't just a wand maker when you make custom wands. " Silvina smiled as Ayasha smiled and nodded before noticing the resin had solidified.
" Okay, Almost done. If you approve, I would like to add some carvings to the shaft. The carvings are symbolic patterns of my people that offer protection. Sound good? " Ayasha smiled as Silvina nodded happily before picking up a small knife with a finely sharpened blade and carefully carving small feather patterns into the wood of the wand shaft.
Once the carvings were done, Ayasha dipped the shaft into the black liquid again, Carefully avoiding getting any on the handle before holding the wand up to the heat light again, Solidifying the liquid once more, Causing the first layer of the liquid to appear jet black while the carvings appeared a lighter tone, Giving them definition against the darker coating. After a few moments examining the wand, Ayasha spoke calmly.
" Okay, Wand complete. One Acacia wood wand with a Thunderbird tail feather core. Eighteen inches in length with unyielding rigidity. Now the important part. Pick up your wand kiddo. " Ayasha stood and stepped back as Silvina reached toward wand. As her fingers brushed the handle, Small bolts of lightning flicker along the shaft, Filling the carvings before wand rocketed away from Silvina and floated slowly through the air as Ayasha spoke. " That's odd... Did you even touch it? "
" Barely... " Silvina trembled visibly as she looked toward Ayasha before her wand rocketed back toward her, Causing her to gasp as the wand slowed and floated in front of her. As she reached out a second time, The wand made small humming noises before Silvina's hand closed around the handle causing the tip of the wand to glow brightly as bolts of lightning encircled Silvina's hand for a moment before the glow and lightning faded, Leaving Silvina holding her wand with a look of relief on her face as she spoke. " It feels weird... My hand and arm are tingly... "
" I was worried for a second there but I am glad your wand has bonded to you. Now the boring part. Wand permit. " Ayasha sighed irritably before taking her glove off and opening a draw to retrieve the form and a quill.
After filling out the form and having Nyllani sign it, Nyllani spoke calmly. " How much is the wand? I only have Bezant right now. "
" The first wand for a young witch is important. It shapes the foundation of how their magic develops. But she is unique. I have never seen a wand react to someone the way yours and hers reacted nor have I seen someone with her potential. " Ayasha smiled as she watched Silvina's wand twirling in the air above her hand slowly before continuing. " For this special little flower, I won't ask even a single coin. "
" But you are running a business... " Nyllani spoke with a hint of guilt before gasping as Silvina's wand suddenly swished before flowers appeared in the air around Silvina before she giggled happily while Ayasha spoke.
" A business that I will be leaving with my sister soon. Monetarily speaking, Sparing one wand for one witch will not hurt anything. And honestly, It feels good. Seeing her bond with her wand so quickly. It feels good to know that she will remember me through that connection. " Ayasha smiled as Nyllani sighed softly.
" How can I ever repay such a kindness? " Nyllani spoke calmly but with a tone of gratitude as Ayasha smiled.
" If I may be so selfish... Let me see her once in a while... If only in passing. Seeing her is like seeing the sun after the rain. I don't know why but her presence fills my heart with warmth. " Ayasha smiled as Nyllani giggled softly.
" I know what you mean. Keeping her safe has been my entire purpose for existing. But once in a while won't be enough. She likes you. " Nyllani smiled as Ayasha giggled softly.
" Thank you. I know I am... Well a stranger... But... It's hard to explain. " Ayasha sighed softly before Nyllani placed a hand on her shoulder.
" You should come by for tea tomorrow. Silvina would like that. You two can geek out about wands. " Nyllani smiled as Ayasha nodded before they turned their attention to Silvina as her wand swished again, This time producing a small array of colourful sparks.
Chapter 1
End