Casters of Oblivion
Disclaimer: I do not own Twilight or other media for this story.
A/N: Hello, fellow readers! I was wondering if you could leave a review to let me know if the story is good or if you have any suggestions. I'm trying not to be one hundred percent accurate to the book. If you have any ideas, that would be great!
Chapter 14: Hiking
Ginger's POV
It was Saturday, and I was excited and nervous on the hiking trail. I know it will probably take a few tries until Eleanor and I reach the Meadow. But the thought of going there made me giddy. I remembered some landmarks and knew the Meadow was. One way to get there was to take Highway 101 North and Highway 110 until the pavement ends. Then, it would be a hike.
He would always go straight. I took a deep breath, feeling the hole in my chest clenched.
I took out the map and set it on the bed with a crystal pendant. I was going to use scrying to get a better idea of where to go instead of going straight. I empty my mind, focusing on the Meadow. Slowly making small circles, I imagined the wildflowers blooming and the stream off in the distance. The crystal spun around until an unknown force yanked it down, locating a spot on the map.
I couldn't help but grin, glad that it worked. Taking a pen, I placed a star on where the crystal landed. Also, doing the scrying again on an expanded map of the area. The Meadow wasn't there, but it can give me a better idea for the future.
Once done, I ensured I had my gear ready and went downstairs. Eleanor was in the kitchen preparing sandwiches and other snacks for us. Zelena was there, too, getting ready for work. She took a sip of her coffee and raised a brow.
"You look awfully excited," Zelena noted.
"It's nice to get out of the house," I said.
"We've been out of the house," Eleanor reminded.
"But we got so used to our woods," I said and stole an apple from the fruit bowl.
"Well, you girls, be careful," Zelena warned. "Charlie let me know there was another attack at a nearby resort. They only found blood at the scene."
"Isn't that like the sixth attack?" Eleanor asked.
Zelena nodded.
"You don't think it's another Cold One?" Eleanor asked.
I tensed slightly when Cold One was mentioned and rubbed my left wrist along the scars.
"I'm not sure. These attacks include sightings of large bears," Zelena said. "But if it is, Eleanor, use your Telekinesis to tear him apart and set him ablaze."
"That is…if they don't attack us," I mumbled.
Zelena remained silent as she stared at me. I stopped rubbing my scar and looked at her. Putting up the mask to ensure her I was alright. She sighed, setting her mug down.
"Or maybe you should bring a jar of honey, just in case." Zelena jokes to lighten the mood.
Eleanor snorted when she heard that, while I gave a small smile. Zelena was trying to make things better for us. From what I heard, most mentors are strict with their pupils. Zelena was different. She made sure we enjoyed our youth before reaching the age of adulthood.
Zelena was the first to leave. Once she was gone, I came over to Eleanor to grab my sandwich and decided to lighten the mood.
"You didn't lick your fingers while making my sandwich?" I teased.
Eleanor groaned, "Seriously!"
I couldn't help but laugh. Maybe I am being mean about the whole Mono situation, but I find it funny. Eleanor especially has to drink a potion to prevent symptoms. Although I wonder how on earth Jacob got Mono. Last, I checked…. You get it from kissing. So, if Jacob did, in fact, kissed another girl while hanging out with Eleanor, I'm gonna hex him to oblivion.
"Sorry, couldn't resist," I chuckled, putting my portion in the bag. "I trust ya. "
Eleanor rolled her eyes.
"Say, since the local trails are no longer safe…I thought maybe we could go to a new place," I said.
"As in?" she asked.
"Well, I found this place in the forest once. A little meadow," I murmured. "I used scrying, and I think I found it. It would definitely take a few tries…."
"A meadow, you say," She replied while cleaning up.
"Yep. It's beautiful, especially when the wildflowers bloom along with a stream. I felt really connected to nature." I listed to hold interest. "I think you might like it."
"I doubt the flowers would bloom at this time," she recalled, taking the dishes into the dishwasher.
"I know, but it wouldn't hurt to find it. We can enjoy it in April or May," I said. "And maybe you know some of the flowers could be useful in potions."
Eleanor chuckled, "Fine, we can go."
I couldn't help but grin.
We got ready and locked up the Cabin before getting in the Wagoneer. I took over the driver's seat and drove to the end of the highway. The weather was nice. There were a few scattered clouds but no signs of rain. We secured the Wagoneer and gathered our things when we reached our destination.
I felt excitement and nervousness roll into one. I know finding this place wasn't going to be easy. It had been a long time since I'd been to the Meadow. I tried not to dwell on my last trip through this forest with a different companion. It wasn't hard to keep focused on the present. Not with my Coven Sister along.
Eleanor came over to me, "Lead the way."
I smiled, taking her hand as we made our way through the forest. I pulled out a compass and a map to better understand where we were. After a few tries, we started our journey. Unlike the local trail, the trail was not set in stone. We were starting our own. We wrapped yellow reflective tape on every tenth tree to avoid getting lost.
As we traveled, I felt so much stress leaving my shoulders. Nature has a thing for us, Casters. It welcomes you and absorbs all your troubles away. You just need to separate yourself from manmade things to connect.
We continued our journey, climbing over fallen trees and branches. Eleanor seemed interested as she stopped us to show me the different types of plants and herbs. She pointed out a gathering of plants that had vibrant green leaves in the shape of hearts and little flowers that were oddly shaped.
"Aristolochiaceae," Eleanor said.
"Bless you," I teased.
"It's wild ginger. Also known as birthwort," Eleanor explained. "Used in ancient medicine and other healing properties… like cancer."
"Doesn't look like ginger," I said.
"No, the aroma is similar to ginger," she explained.
"How do you know this?" I asked.
Eleanor had a sad expression, "My mother would make these potions for my Grandmother Edith when she was going through cancer."
"Oh," I gaped, rubbing the back of my neck.
"Casters know how to extract it probably better than modern medicine. Since they keep getting the poisonous toxins."
Eleanor continued to educate me about the plants. Telling me the different types of ferns, the difference between Lady-fern and Grand firs. I didn't realize there were so many types of plants and flowers in the state of Washington, along with mushrooms and moss. I was pretty intrigued. We even took some samples to restock for Zelena's potions cabinet.
Time seemed to vanish, and we heard some thunder. I paused, realizing we spent our hike mainly on plants instead of following the original plan of finding the Meadow.
Knowing it was unsafe to hike in the rain, we had no choice but to turn back. We probably made three miles in the forest, and hiking back, we had gone six miles when we got back to the Wagoneer.
"We'll find it next time," Eleanor said. "I actually had a good time. Thank you."
As much as I was disappointed in not finding the Meadow…the look on Eleanor's face was worth it.
We got in the Wagoneer and headed back to the Cabin. And just in time, might I add, since it started to rain. It was afternoon when we got back, and it was pouring. We kicked off our muddy boots on the porch before going inside.
"Let's change into comfortable clothing," Eleanor suggested. "I'll make some hot chocolate and warm some cookies."
Cookies and Hot chocolate! Eleanor, you are a saint, I thought.
Eleanor has magical hands when it comes to cooking. She even made a giant tub of cookie dough for emergency sweet tooth.
"Yes, please," I sang.
Eleanor chuckled as we went upstairs.
I changed into comfortable clothes and stared at my laptop. A part of me wanted to email Alice to give an update on what's happening. Yet, the moment I sent the email…it would be automatically declined. I sighed, wondering if Alice kept tabs on me now and then. Is she aware of what I have gone through and what I am trying to do?
Shaking my head, I went downstairs and to the kitchen to see Eleanor putting cookie dough in the oven.
"Need help?" I asked.
"I'm good," Eleanor answered. "Why don't you pick out a movie for us?"
I nodded, headed back to the living room, turned on the TV, and set up the DVD player. I went over to the DVD cabinet to see what options there were. Zelena has collected a variety of movies since the creation of DVDs. I scroll through, avoiding romance movies. After watching Face Punch, there's got to be something else. I chose a classic for my generation and put it in Harry Potter. Rainy day, hot chocolate, and Harry Potter. Sounds like a good combination.
As I set the movie up, I could smell the cookies baking, followed by popcorn popping. Man, Eleanor is a saint. We hadn't had movie time together in a long time…Just us. We would watch movies, talk, get to know one another, or bash about anything.
After some time, Eleanor came out with a tray with popcorn, warm chocolate chip cookies, two bottles of water, and her hot chocolate. Once she was settled, I hit play and watched her reaction.
Eleanor raised a brow when the opening credits played with a slight chuckle, "Seriously?"
"What?" I teased, grabbing my cup. "It's Harry Potter."
Eleanor chuckled, shaking her head as she grabbed a cookie.
I smiled, taking a sip of my hot chocolate, but stopped. I tilted the teacup, only to find it pouring very slowly. The chocolaty beverage was thick, almost like pudding.
"Why is it thick?" I asked.
"It's Italian hot chocolate," Eleanor answered, handing me a spoon. "Something Grandfather Horatio would make for me on the regular."
I nodded, "You and your Granddad were close?"
Eleanor nodded, "Yeah."
There were many emotions in her eyes. Zelena mentioned that Eleanor was going through a lot. Oh shit, it was nearing the one-year anniversary of his death. Damn, and the timing sucks with Jacob on sick leave. From what I heard…Eleanor was the one who found Horatio dead. Constance mentioned it when Mr. Gideon took Eleanor to visit Horatio's grave.
Anyway, we focus on the movie.
.o0o.
Eleanor's POV
Jacob still hasn't responded. Sometimes, I wanted to call him, even if it was Billy, to get an update, but I didn't. From the last call, he sounded terrible, and reading about Mono, one of the symptoms is swollen tonsils. So, I send Jacob emails now and then just to give him an update. If anything amusing happens at school or the Cabin, I just want to put a slight smile on his face.
Yet Jacob does not respond.
"I'm sure he is exhausted and most likely asleep," Zelena assured me.
Zelena was restocking supplies for her store, so Ginger, Zelena, and I made soaps and other hygiene products. The Cabin smelled heavenly as the ingredients were melted and blended together.
"I know. I just wish I could get one response," I sighed, working on a potion. "Even a simple text."
Zelena chuckled as she rubbed my back, "I know, but give him time."
I sighed, carefully pouring melted soap into molds.
"I plan to cook a few dishes for Charlie and the Blacks. Also, drop off some herbal remedies to Harry Clearwater. His heart's not doing well, and it seems modern medicine is not helping." Zelena informed. "Would you like to drop them off for me?"
I looked up at her, surprised, "Really?"
Zelena nodded as she tapped the molds, "Now listen. You will not be going inside their house. It's up to Billy to decide if you can come in or not."
I nodded with a small smile. Even if I can't go see Jacob, just to get an update is more than enough.
"And they say I was obsessive," Ginger muttered as she chopped up herbs.
I clicked my tongue, resulting in Ginger cutting her fingernail's tip. She cursed, retracting her hand from the shocking pain, and glared at me.
"Really?" Ginger scowled.
"You started it," Zelena said. "Now, no more bickering, and get back to work."
We nodded.
Zelena and I started meal prepping for our friends the next day after school. We made a lot of food for Chief Swan and the Blacks. I did some research in search of a meal that can help those infected with Mono. I made a large batch of my Grandmother Edith's recipe for Chicken Soup. You can eat it in many ways, either with noodles, rice, or by itself. Still, I ensured the veggies and chicken were in small cuts to be easy to consume.
After dividing the foods into portions, we put them in the fridge and freezer and call it a day.
The following day, I attended school as usual. Everyone was getting excited for Spring Break, which was coming around the corner. Apparently, many are going out of town or have plans. For example, Jessica and her family were going on a cruise. Mike got drafted to work full-time at his parents' store. Eric and Angela were going to spend half the time together while the other half of the time, they both had family trips. Tyler was occupied with Lauren, and those who occasionally hung out were busy with Spring Break.
"What are you going to do?" Angela asked.
"Well, we might have to do some spring cleaning and work in Zelena's store," Ginger answered.
That and training, I thought.
"Man, it's like you two barely get to have fun," Jessica said.
"We do," I assured her. "Ginger and I are doing some hiking."
"Is that wise with all the bear sightings?" Mike asked. "Customers keep talking about seeing mutant-sized bears."
"Well, we haven't seen any," Ginger said with a scoff. "Not even a squirrel."
I snorted at that.
The day continued until I returned home. There was a ton of food in the fridge and freezer. Ginger helped me load the items into the Wagoneer.
"Do you want to come or chill?" I asked.
"I'm gonna chill and get a headstart on a project that's due in two weeks," She answered.
"Right," I chuckled, doubting it.
Anyway, I ensured I had directions from the Black's house to the Clearwater residence. Making sure the tank was good, I started driving, stopping at Chief Swan's place. Zelena mentioned that Charlie might not be home and put the food on the porch and cover it with a towel.
When I got to Charlie's, I grabbed some of the bags and rang the doorbell. I waited a minute and rang the doorbell again. Nothing. So I placed the food on the porch and set a towel over it before returning to the Wagoneer.
It would be thirty minutes to drive to the Black Residence. The weather seemed nice; it was still light rain but nothing severe. My thoughts linger on Jacob, wondering how he is feeling. Hopefully, he is feeling a bit better enough for a small chat. It wasn't long before I saw the Black's home. It is a small wooden place with narrow windows, and the dull red paint makes it resemble a tiny barn. Billy's Chevy truck was parked in the front, though I did not see the Rabbit, and I assumed it was in the garage. I parked in the front and took a deep breath.
I got out of the Wagoneer and grabbed some of the bags with the dishes and containers. Quickly, I made my way over to the front door and knocked on it. The bags started slipping, and I promptly tried to readjust my grip. A moment later, the door opened, revealing Billy, who seemed baffled.
"Eleanor, what are you doing here?" Billy asked.
"Hey Billy, just dropping off some food Zelena and I made," I answered, raising the bags. "Zelena said she called."
"Oh, yes, must have slipped my mind," he said, still cautious.
"Um, don't worry, I'm just the delivery girl," I assured him. "I have a few errands to run."
Billy nodded as I sensed some relief in him.
"Mind if I bring these into the kitchen?" I asked.
Billy blinked a few times and nodded, "Yes."
He rolled himself out of the way as I walked towards the kitchen. As I walked through the hall, I noticed Jacob's bedroom door still closed. Remembering that Billy was in charge, I made it straight towards the kitchen. I started putting the containers in the fridge.
"You don't have to do that," Billy said.
"I insist," I assured. "Your hands are busy."
Billy only nodded.
"I take it Jacob is still not feeling well?" I asked, putting the lasagna in the freezer.
"The aches have stopped, but the fever is still there." He answered. "He just went back to sleep after a trip to the hospital."
I nodded, "Dang, it would be nice to talk to him. Maybe next time."
Billy nodded, still watching me like a hawk.
Once I had the containers put away, I faced him, "I just need to bring in a pot of chicken soup, and I'll be off."
"Much appreciated." He said.
I rushed out to grab the pot and made my way to the kitchen.
"Why don't you put that on the stove," Billy instructed. "I'm sure Jacob would appreciate some homemade soup tonight."
I nodded, setting the pot on the stove.
"Hopefully, some homemade soup can help," I murmured. "You can add rice or noodles to it. I didn't know what you two prefer."
"It's the thought that counts," he said.
I nodded and checked the clock on the kitchen wall, "Well, I better get going. Gotta stop by the Clearwater's. Tell Jake I said hi and to get well soon."
"I will," Billy promised, following behind me as I made my way out.
Once outside, I waved to Billy and got in the Wagoneer. As I put my keys in the ignition, I looked up to see one of the window curtains moving. It was as if someone was peeking out and quickly closing it. Maybe Jacob was looking out. Billy was still by the door, watching me. I gave another wave before leaving the property.
Pulling out the MapQuest that Zelena printed, I followed the instructions heading towards Clearwater's Residence. I turned on the radio, changing to the local station on the Reservation that Jacob listens to. Everything seemed so calm until I sensed that I was being followed.
I stared at my side-view mirrors, seeing no other cars on the road. Yet, I can't shake this feeling of being followed and watched. I glanced out the passenger side to see nothing along the forest line. Nothing. I then turned to the driver's side, careful to see if something was there. That was when I saw movement. Something was running along the forest. It appeared to be an animal…maybe an elk or a bear. There have been talks about a bear. It was hard to tell from the trees blocking it.
Still, it's not something I want to find out.
I made a turn, and continued following instructions to get to the Clearwater's. Yet the sense of being followed continues. I bit my lip, wondering why I kept sensing this. Taking a few deep breaths, I made my way to the destination.
The Clearwater Residence was similar to the Blacks, though it was a two-story building with washout green and exposed wood. A house nearing the border of the forest and a view of the coast. I got out of the Wagoneer, grabbing a carved box that held tea for Harry. Zelena did mention that Harry was dealing with some heart problems. This tea is probably a potion to help his cholesterol and blood pressure.
Closing the door, the sense of being watched was there. I turned toward where it was coming from…the forest. I closed my eyes and tried to sense what was following me. A wild aura filled with protection…almost like the guardians. However, this guardian…was not like the other three I have encountered. Then again, I am on sacred ground. Maybe this spirit resides on the reservation, and that's why I haven't sensed it before.
Not wanting to waste more time, I went to the front door and rang the doorbell. I stood there, looking at the surroundings while trying to avoid the presence of being watched. It wasn't long before the door opened. I turn only to be face to face…well, face to chest. A muscular…naked chest was in my view. I looked up to see none other than Sam Uley.
The last time I was this close to Sam was back in September. Sam had long, rounded muscles, copper skin, cropped black hair, and brown eyes. He seemed taller than I last remember, being over six feet tall. On his right upper arm was a large tattoo. There appeared to be two wolves in the Quileute design. The same design as my pendant.
"Eleanor," Sam greeted with a deep voice.
"Sam…right?" I asked, flustered from the sudden encounter.
Doesn't he own a shirt? I thought.
This is the third time I have seen him without one.
Sam nodded, his brown eyes staring at me in question, "Can I help you with something?"
"Oh…um…I thought this was the Clearwater residence?" I started.
"It is," Sam confirmed.
"Uh, is Mr. Clearwater here?" I asked, a bit intimidated by Sam.
Something about him felt familiar…the dominating presence as the Alpha Guardian in the forest.
Sam nodded as he turned slightly, "Harry, you have company!"
A moment later, Harry Clearwater came over, "Eleanor."
"Hello, Mr. Clearwater," I greeted. "I came by to drop this off for you. Zelena made a blend that…."
I wasn't sure how to explain it with Sam standing there watching us. His dark eyes looked between Harry and me, along with glances at the forest. However, when his eyes linger on Harry, they hold concern. No doubt Sam cared about Harry and his health, especially when a man has some health problems involving his heart.
"Ah yes," Harry confirmed as he accepted the small box. "Thank you."
I nodded, "I better get going."
Harry nodded, "I'll let Zelena know I got the tea."
I nodded again.
"Let me walk you to your car," Sam offered.
"That's not necessary," I declined.
"I insist," Sam said, in a tone that led to no argument.
I bit my tongue. Despite the fact that Sam is the one who found Ginger in the forest… Jacob's words were still bothering me. Jacob stated Sam was taking young men forming some sort of gang. How is this the man who ruined the friendship between Jacob and Embry? But not wanting to appear rude in front of Harry, I nodded.
Harry wished me goodbye as Sam walked me back to the Wagoneer.
"How is Ginger doing?" Sam asked.
"She's doing fine," I answered. "Much better, actually."
Sam nodded, "That's good to hear."
I nodded, pulling my key out and unlocking the door.
"Say, do you know if the Cullens are back in town?"
I stopped and stared at him strangely.
"As if I would know. I wasn't really friends with them," I answered bitterly.
Sam stared at me as if trying to read my expression until his eyes lingered on my chest. More specifically, the Quileute vervain pendant. Even with the Cold Ones no longer here, the pendant was a gift from the Blacks. One I have cherished since coming to Forks.
"Anyway, I gotta go." I declared, opening the door.
Sam took hold of the door, opening it for me.
"Um…thanks," I said and got inside.
Sam only nodded, "Better get home. It's getting late."
I nodded again, for I didn't know how to talk to him.
Sam closed the door and stepped away. Finding him strange, I buckled up and headed out of the parking lot. As I did this, I noticed Sam running toward the forest from the rear-view mirror. Shaking my head, I drove back to Forks, trying not to think about how strange the men on the reservation were.
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