Fractured Fates & Silent Vows

Rating: T/M for some themes

Summary:

In another timeline, Liam triumphantly returns to his hometown for a fresh start. His time at Hollywood Arts is a whirlwind of success and new friendships. Despite keeping a few secrets, he's on top of the world. But just when he thought everything was going smoothly, an old friend reemerges, hellbent on reigniting the past.

Author's Notes:

Foreign languages spoken

*Liam- Yoruba

*Tori- Yucatan Maya

*Katalaya- Yoruba

*Celeste & Lucille- Yoruba

*Jade- ?

Chapter 17: Courtesy Call

With fall break nearing its end, the second quarter was set to begin in a few days. With only a little time left away from classes and homework, it was a lucky break that Tori & Liam hadn't missed much. After the events of Yerba, her parents were adamant about getting her examined for any injuries. Thankfully, she was able to leave the hospital with a clean bill of health, provided she went to counseling for mental trauma.

Liam wasn't so fortunate, having to be held for a couple of weeks while his aunt moved in. The injuries he sustained baffled the doctors, especially when he waltzed in without so much as a wince. If not for the doctor demanding he remain for further testing, and Katalaya's insistence, he would've left the same way he arrived.

When news got out of their return, Tori insisted they wait until he was discharged, a suggestion they each took to heart. However, there was one who refused to accept these terms.

Unknown to them, day after day for the entire duration of his stay, a certain goth found some way to keep the injured boy company but, today was different.

Today was the day Liam was being released.

Finally cleared of any immediate danger, Jade was elated and couldn't wait for him to arrive home. After secretly talking with his newly revealed aunt, she volunteered to pick him up while Tori and the others were distracted with preparing for the upcoming semester; the less said about that, the better. Despite all of that, she was more than eager to reunite with the boy and prepare for the second part of the fall semester. Nothing could ruin her mood!

Nothing except her intrusive thoughts.

With each step taken, Jade West found her movements grow slower and heavier. Her stomach dropped at what she might find. After Tori's brief explanation of things, she knew something was being withheld. Was Liam hurt worse than previously mentioned? If so, how bad was the damage?

Against her worries, her strong desire to see him led her to enter his room. Liam appeared to be resting comfortably, although he was still quite wrapped up in medical bandages. The steady sound of his heartbeat reassured Jade, and upon closer examination, she noticed that most of the bandages were removed from his head, except for those around the bridge of his nose. A blush crept up her cheeks as she couldn't help but find him adorable while he was sleeping.

Then it hit her...

The full impact of his wounds, while far lesser now told a tale that made Tori's description pale in effect. Torture. Bloody battles. Even his afflicted arm was decorated in scars from the sadistic game he and her rival endured; All to protect Vega...

She let out a sharp breath and grabbed a chair to sit next to him.

"You know," she chuckled bitterly. "I went to a lot of trouble to get here before the others. Vega said you're supposed to be released today, yet here you are sleeping like a log. I have to admit that even though I get a kick out of pain well... the good kind anyway, it crushes me to see you like this."

With a swift peek at the cracked door, Jade smirked softly knowing that nobody was around to see or hear her like this. Worried. Sorrowful. Angry. These feelings and more mixed in her like a bubbling cauldron that only seemed to make her feel worse.

"Why did you have to get hurt?" Once that first tear slipped out, the rest followed in an unbroken stream. Jade leaned towards the comatose boy, taking in every detail of his facial features. She was never one to break down in a sob without a serious enough reason. This was one of those rare moments; one that he truly deserved. Hot streaks flowed, trailing down ivory cheeks and causing her vision to become blurred.

Her heart was heavy knowing, to an extent, what put him here.

"I wish you didn't have to fight that butcher monster. I... I wish it was me you were fighting for back there. None of this was supposed to happen!"

Silence.

"We were supposed to escape Yerba together without anyone getting hurt!" her eyes bled with pain as she chewed her lip. "I never wanted to see you hurt and..." she paused. A tightening in her throat, followed by a short intake of air forced Jade to consider her next words wisely. "When you're better, I promise you we're going to spend more time together, even if that's just as friends. Vega can't have you all to herself, hehe."

As Jade continued to pour out her most intimate thoughts, she failed to notice that someone was listening.

Outside, Tori heard the goth's confession, a small bouquet in hand. Had she followed through, Jade would've certainly shifted back to her old stubborn way of acting. So she waited until Jade's familiar tone was heard once more.

"I was so worried about you," Jade whimpered.

Tori felt her heart tighten as she debated whether to give Jade more time alone. Her intention of respecting Jade's privacy was fleeting as she overheard Liam's response to a comment about an "evil stepsister," followed by laughter.

"How much of that did you hear?" Tori heard her sniffle.

Taking a deep breath, she carefully timed her entrance to make it seem like she hadn't already known who was in the room.

"I, um... Tori!" he exclaimed, grateful for her arrival. "Perfect timing."

Jade stepped back, her expression flickering between guilt and suspicion. "I was just here to make sure he was okay," she crossed her arms, shifting on the balls of her feet.

Tori forced a smile. "That's... thoughtful of you, Jade."

The awkward air would be broken when one of the doctors arrived to do a final check-up, leaving the girls to wait in the hall. Neither said a word for what felt like ages until the doctor stepped out, giving him a favorable report. They entered, finding their crush on his feet and shirtless. As Liam continued changing, both girls found their gazes drawn to him momentarily, a mix of emotions playing across their faces.

Deeper their minds drifted into their thoughts, images of the young man on full display. Thoughts that would make a nun blush began to surface.

Jade found herself walking into a dimly lit bedroom with candlelight strewn about. A path of rose petals led her to the king-sized bed, which was also dressed with soft ruby petals. There was no music, only the sounds of nature capturing her attention till she looked in the mirror. Her eyes were drawn to her, clad in a blue and black negligee. She bends over a little, only to freeze in her tracks when the presence of another seems to overwhelm her. Though hesitant, there was a familiar sensation about the aura emanating from it. She turned slowly, amazed at the soft lights that showed his shape.

They both knew what the other was thinking, each eager to oblige the other.

In a matter of seconds, Jade was beneath Liam's massive figure, with his wolf-like gaze. Jade could feel that unmistakable tingle welling up inside as he ripped away at the few remaining articles of clothing. He ran his hands down her curvy body and peered into her deep blue eyes. Before she could tell him what she wanted, her throat let out a sharp whine as his teeth clamped down on her neck, hard enough to leave a mark.

The level of frustration combined with pleasure was greater than she had expected. She pushed her claws deep into his flesh, penetrating the muscle. Small amounts of blood coated her sharp fingernails as her loins erupted with excitement. She needed him. She wanted him right then and there, but he had other ideas. His lips slid from her throat to her collar before kissing her breasts. She then felt something press against her now-wet slit, smearing his two fingers with her moisture.

"This is what you wanted, right?" his voice was gentle, yet rumbled with a thunderous roar within her.

Jade could only give a whimper and a nod as a response.

"I asked you a question," he licked the spot where he had bitten her just moments before. "Is this what you desired?"

Looking into his gaze, she could feel herself sinking deeper into his spell. His fingers teased her. His stare probed the most profound parts of her soul. She could feel her first, and hopefully many, orgasms ripping through her like paper.

"Yes..." she whined again.

"Yes, what?"

"Yes, Liam!"

"Whoa!" she heard his tone shift from in control to perplexed. "Somebody's eager to hang out. Huh?"

Wait, what?!

Jade blinked several times to find Tori standing next to a fully clothed Liam. The latter tilted his head as Tori giggled at the goth's embarrassing position.

"I don't know, Liam. I think she might have something else on her mind."

"We should go," Jade spoke abruptly. "I'll be outside when you're ready."

As she turned to leave, their eyes met in a silent moment of understanding. When she met Tori's amused gaze, ice and earth understood that their challenge was far from over, though a truce would remain for now.

Liam, still smiling, looked between them. "Let me grab my paperwork and we'll be right out. I can't wait to sleep in my bed again. What about you, Tori?"

Tori nodded, pushing aside her mischievous thoughts and feelings. "Of course, I'll be waiting in the hallway."

Liam rushed to collect his things while Tori took a deep exhale. While she found fun in Jade's chagrin, she couldn't help but feel like a hypocrite. A fantasy culminating from both her ideas and their experience in both Yerba and Belize had captured her senses as she closed her eyes.

"I was so close..." she groaned just out of earshot of a passing nurse.

Tori's thoughts were dominated by visions of her and Liam on a private beach. He approaches her with bedroom eyes, covered in cool water beads with the sun kissing his skin. While he followed her down the shoreline, nudging her with the plush towel close by, her thoughts persisted. Between their laughs, their gazes locked, her countenance moving from joyful to desirous.

He would emulate Tori's expression, his hand coming up to stroke her cheek and then planting a kiss. She puts her arms around his neck, kissing him more deeply and enjoying the feel of his smooth lips on her own. She'd feel his lips move south, resting just to caress her firm tummy as her right leg crossed over his. With each kiss, a surge of delicious delight coursed through her body, and her thoughts started to wander.

Even though Tori was far more reserved than her rival, she understood what would happen next.

"Binrin..." she shuddered when he called her princess. "Are you ready?"

"Yes."

"Tori?"

"Yes, Liam."

"...ready to go?"

Her vision seemed to return the brunette to reality only to find Liam waving his hand in front of her.

"Huh?" she shook her head, trying desperately to rid herself of the bright pink resting along her face.

"Jade's waiting for us, and I'm ready to eat some real food."

He took her hand and the pair were on their way. Teenage attractions were no joke, but Tori felt there was more to things than that. For now, she was happy that Liam was so excited to leave behind the hospital and lead the conversation as they left the building. This allowed her to regain her senses, and it couldn't have come any sooner as Jade pulled up with a smirk, showing she was fully aware of Tori's thoughts.

While she enjoyed nothing more than getting back at the goody-two-shoes, Jade had more important things to concern herself with for the time being. After weeks of missing her best friend, Jade was eager to enjoy some quality time with him.

This is not what I had in mind...

As Liam approached his home with Jade and Tori behind him, raised voices could be heard from inside. Jade and Tori exchanged a worried glance while Liam opened the front door.

The scene that greeted them was tense. His aunt, Katalaya stood with her arms crossed, facing off against Celeste and Lucille. Their spat would momentarily pause once they turned, finally noticing their arrival.

"Liam," Celeste spoke evenly, her gaze softening slightly. "You're home. I see you've healed nicely."

Katalaya moved towards the trio. "I'm sorry, egbon. They showed up demanding to see you. I didn't want the police to be called for 'disturbing the peace'."

Lucille scoffed. "We're his family. We have every right to be here."

Liam's jaw clenched. "What are you doing here? What's going on?"

Celeste stepped forward, her braided locs swaying as if carried by an imaginary breeze. "We're taking you back to New Orleans. It's time to come home."

"What?!" He exclaimed, eyes ablaze with fury at the audacious announcement. "You're kidding me! I'm not going anywhere!"

Katalaya stepped in. "He's old enough to make his own decisions, Celeste. You can't force him to go."

"He needs his family," Celeste insisted. "Real family, idaji ẹjẹ "

Half-blood.

Liam understood all too well how much his mother cared about pure-bloodedness. He hated how much worth she put into one's genealogy, let alone how little she thought of those who didn't meet her standards. Katalaya was his aunt, their family. How could she treat her as if she was nothing more than a common stranger?

He watched as the normally composed woman jumped into a shouting match over him.

As anger and empathy crashed into his chest, Liam, wanting to end this conflict, finally raised his voice. "Enough! I'll... I'll make you a deal."

"Liam, no," Tori started, but he held up his hand.

"I'll come to New Orleans. But only to visit," he announced, addressing his mother and sister. "After the semester ends, I'll return home for two weeks but on two conditions."

"Speak, child..."

"For starters, I'm only staying for two weeks. Then, I'm coming back here to prepare for summer vacation."

"...and the other one?" Lucille shot him a challenging glare only to be matched by his own.

"Tori and Jade come with me. Spring break is just around the corner and I wouldn't feel comfortable leaving them alone, especially after reuniting."

While the girls shared questionable looks, Lucille smirked.

"Awww, is baby brother too afraid to leave his little girlfriends? It's a wonder how you manage to get anything done being so distracted. I'm not surprised at how easily Darius used you for his ends."

"Enough, Lucille!" Celeste scolded before nodding slowly to the young man. "Are you certain of these conditions?"

"That's my first and final offer. Take it or leave us alone."

"Very well. Two weeks..."

"Liam, you can't be serious!" Jade protested. "You just got released from the hospital and I'm... We're not letting you be reckless!"

Tori added, "You don't have to do this!"

Liam glanced at them both, his expression resolute but weary. "It's just a couple of weeks. Maybe... maybe it's time to face things."

Katalaya sighed. Though she only knew Liam for a short amount of time, the love she felt for her nephew was certain. She wanted nothing to do with family squabbles, nor did she wish this for the boy. Between risking his life in a death game and recovering, he deserved to rest and enjoy his life, not be a pawn in another game.

But, even she knew that trying to stop him was a futile effort.

"If that's what you want, Liam. But, you won't be going alone either. This is your home; Our home, egbon."

As the details were reluctantly hammered out, Tori and Jade shared a concerned look. They knew that this visit could change everything, and neither of them was happy about it. Liam also felt the weight of his decision settle on his shoulders. The timing and duration set weren't by accident. He proposed this knowing the consequences. He hoped he was making the right choice, but the worried faces of the girls made him question his resolve.

At least I bought some time...

After the deliberations were complete, Celeste and Lucille left the home but not without a warning to Liam and Katalaya if they broke their end of the arrangement. Tori had to return home, promising to return the next day to check up on her friend. Meanwhile, Jade stuck around and found Liam on the balcony, staring out at the setting sun. She approached hesitantly, her frustration evident in her tense posture.

"How could you agree to go back there?" she asked; her voice tight with emotion.

Liam turned to face her, his expression weary but observant. "I have to face them sometime, Jade. I can't keep running from this."

"But... after everything they put you through? We both know they can't be trusted! What if this is a trap?"

He stepped closer, leaning against the railing. "I'll be okay. I promise. Don't forget, I've survived attacks from the living and the departed."

Jade's eyes searched his face. "You don't know that! Why did you come back to L.A. if you're going to leave again?"

Liam's gaze softened. "I... I came back for you, Jade. I know I wanted answers, but I wanted to make things right between us. I couldn't leave things the way they were. So, when I had the chance to choose my destination, I... lied about coming here for Darius or Aeshma... or whatever. Once I found out L.A. I couldn't resist the urge to find you."

Her breath caught. "Liam, I..."

Rather than open her mouth, Jade grabbed him by his collar, pulling him back inside. She didn't stop though as she stomped downstairs, ignoring his protests. When they arrived at the living room, Katalaya was waiting at the front door.

"And where do you think you're taking my nephew?"

"I need to have a private conversation with him," she announced in a challenging tone. "Are you going to stop me?"

The woman spared a moment, crossing her arms and studying the situation. While Liam shot her a pleading look, Jade held her resolve. Ultimately, she stepped aside, allowing passage, much to his objections. Jade continued until they were both in her car. She was grateful that he was too tired to put up a strong enough fight.

Various lights and sounds passed the duo as they traveled in silence. Liam's eyes were fixated on the road ahead while Jade continued to cut her gaze between the streets and her restless friend. This wasn't the first time she had witnessed him in shutdown mode but it never got any easier either. It was something that only she and Tori had seen consistently when they were trapped together.

Somehow, despite him exceeding the speed limit occasionally, they managed to arrive at a secluded peak on the outskirts of town. There was one streetlight along the road behind them, but no other source of light was available except the moon itself. Watching in awe, Jade took in the breathtaking view of the city below while her still-silent friend stepped out of the car. Pulling herself from her inner musing, Jade followed suit but was careful not to trigger him. She may be known for antagonizing oftentimes, but even she had enough sense not to poke the beast.

"So..." he caught her off guard, his tone much lower than before. "...What is it that you want to say, Jade?"

She blinked a few times, no doubt trying to process this unknown voice, but approached him slowly.

The city lights twinkled below, a tapestry of goals against the darkening sky. Her car sat parked at the edge of the overlook, its occupants stepping around it as they gazed at the view. Jade fidgeted with the hem of her jacket, stealing glances at the boy's profile.

Finally, she broke the silence. "I still can't believe you agreed to go back there."

Liam turned to her, his expression a mix of determination and apprehension. "I have to do this, Jade. It's time to face my past."

"But why now?" she asked, her voice carrying a hint of desperation. "You just got back! You're not even half a day removed from leaving the hospital! From what Tori said, you nearly died trying to protect her from a fucking psychopath with a love for sadism! After everything you've been through, why now?"

Liam sighed, running a hand through his locs. "I can't keep running forever. Maybe... maybe things can be different this time."

Jade bit her lip, wrestling with the words she wanted to say. Deep down, she wanted to scream at him, punch him to knock some sense into him. Instead, she continued to stare at the scenery below.

"I'm just worried about you," she managed, her tone softer than intended.

The touch of Liam's hand was gentle as he reached out to gently squeeze hers. Their impending trip seemed to hold a significance beyond its surface, and both of them were keenly aware of it. When they finally reunited, her emotions were a mixture of joy and guilt, creating a complex and bittersweet atmosphere. Their reunion was marred by inner demons and the sting of an unexpected betrayal. As they were forced apart in Yerba, he could sense the turmoil within her, as if her very soul was on the verge of bursting at the seams.

"I'll be okay. I promise."

His touch sent a jolt through her, and she found herself leaning closer. "Liam, I..." she started, her heart racing.

For a moment, the air between them crackled with unspoken emotions. Jade's gaze flicked to Liam's lips, then back to his eyes. She could feel herself teetering on the edge of revealing everything - her feelings, her fears, her hopes.

But the image of her boyfriend, Beck, flashed in her mind, and she pulled back, forcing her emotions behind a mask of friendly concern.

"Just... be careful, okay?" she whispered, her voice slightly strained. "I know you want me and... Tori to come with you, but promise me you'll come back."

Liam nodded, a flicker of something - disappointment? Relief? - crossing his face. "I will. This is my home now. I won't let them change that."

As they sat there, the city lights reflecting in their eyes, both Liam and Jade felt the weight of words unsaid and feelings unexpressed. The night air carried the whisper of possibilities, of paths not taken, as they remained side by side, close but separated by the choices they'd made.

Jade was with Beck; Being in a relationship did wonders to destroy any possibility of other romances, barring exceptional options.

On the other hand, Liam had a budding connection with Tori. Though not as solid as Jade's relationship, there was something worth exploring. He never wanted to pit them against one another, so he'd keep this hidden for now. It wasn't like they did anything wrong, yet, despite this knowledge, neither could shake off this feeling of guilt.

"Jade?" his voice was so tender and loving. He lifted her chin softly, permitting her to meet his gaze. "When we get back, I promise we'll hang out. Don't forget, your mom mentioned something about a trip overseas. Maybe I'll scrape up some cash and join you."

"I... I'll see..." she averted her gaze but never turned away from him. "You know how I feel about my family."

"What better role for me than the distraction then?" he burst out laughing, earning a shove for his efforts. Thankfully, Jade wasn't angry, instead pulling him in a tight embrace. "I... uh?"

"Shut up, Asta-Loki..." she gasped at the name she called him, uncertain of why or how it came to pass her lips. "I... I mean, Liam! Your name!"

He chuckled softly, careful not to further provoke her anger. Then, catching her by surprise, he leaned in and planted a gentle kiss on her forehead. This simple act momentarily eased her worries. As he held her close, the chilly breeze reminded Jade that something deeper was at play in this supposed family conflict.

The women who professed to be his family appeared to be much more than what they let on, and Jade saw right through their facade. Putting faith in them felt equivalent to expecting a rattlesnake not to strike. They were cunning, waiting for an opportunity to unleash their harm when no one was looking. Jade was resolute in her determination to protect herself from their poisonous intentions, even if it meant fighting for her life.

They were cunning, just like her if not moreso.

For the time being, she'd settle for the comfort of this moment. Liam promised a safe return and that would suffice as she closed her eyes, savoring the coming night air. She was so lost in thought that Jade barely caught the name he called her. His voice was like the passing breeze, but she managed to hear a single word, one that would light a spark in her chest.

"...Revna?"

Unknown to them, a pair of amethyst orbs watched all of this unfold from a safe distance. The figure kept a close eye on things until the pair finally departed, driving back to the bustling city.

Back home, the soft glow of stars above and the scattered lights bathed the adjoining backyards in a gentle light. Liam slipped out of the house and sat on the stone wall separating his residence from the Vega family, his legs dangling on his side. Behind him, a pajama-clad Tori approached, her steps hesitant.

"Hey," she said softly, joining him on the wall.

Liam peered over his shoulder. "Hey, you."

They sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the air growing heavy with thoughts of the inevitable. Neither was willing to deny the dreaded conversation that was coming.

Finally, Tori spoke up. "So... New Orleans, huh?"

Liam begrudgingly nodded, his face turning serious. "Yeah. I know it's not the ideal choice, but-"

"It's dangerous," Tori interrupted, her voice tight with apprehension. "Your... family, they... I just don't want you to get hurt again."

Liam understood her tone. It was just like with Jade earlier. Rather than explain his reasoning right away, he instead reached out, gently taking her hand. "I'll be okay, Tori. They can't do anything worse than Yerba..."

Tori gaped at their intertwined fingers, struggling to find the right words. "Liam, I... there's something I want to tell you..."

Her voice trailed off, the weight of her emotions making it abruptly difficult to articulate. Rather, she squeezed his hand, managing a tiny grin.

"Just... be careful, okay? I still plan on making up for that horrible trip, you know? I couldn't live with myself if things ended with... Yerba. You have people here who care deeply about you... Eshu."

Liam's eyebrows raised at the name, a lopsided grin spreading across his lips. "Eshu? The trickster Orisha?"

Tori nodded with a hint of mischief in her eyes that briefly outshined her previous apprehension. "I think it suits you. He was also known for being the one responsible for destiny and choice?"

He chuckled at her insight, allowing his face to soften. "In that case, I'll remember, Awi."

This time, Tori's heart skipped at the nickname - Awilix, the moon goddess. A name connected to their week of reprieve that bonded them forever. She leaned her head on his shoulder, taking comfort in his presence. How could one such as he, with all he'd done before her, have this type of impact? With the darkness that'd been exhibited previously, no one would blame her for keeping her distance.

Yet, the girl thought to be sent from heaven itself found solace with the boy considered a demon.

"Promise me that you'll come back... We'll come back together," she whispered.

"I already said I..."

"I want you to promise me, Eshu. A'al ti' teen, in yaabilaj?"

Liam froze in place after hearing her plea; She only used that language when serious. He couldn't deny her, even if he doubted himself. He hopped off the stone wall, aiding Tori to her side before taking her hands into his own. He made eye contact with the girl, allowing her access to his soul.

"Tori Vega, I promise you that I will overcome this. I will come back home with you and the others, Awi! I promise on my soul."

She watched as he sealed his oath by kissing her hands, never removing eye contact. She smiled while fighting back tears. A fool she was not, but she was satisfied with this. A warrior had declared a bond with a princess; The visual taking her aback initially. His confidence blazing like wildfire yet, she didn't mistake the shrouds of shadow that swirled around him.

Tori could've remained there, but, sadly, life didn't always work out.

"Tori? Are you in the kitchen?"

"I have to go..."

Liam understood, and the two parted, albeit hesitantly. Their touch lingered long past their separation. He watched until she stepped inside her home, mouthing a 'goodnight' before departing for the night.

"It's nice to know my nephew is strong-willed..."

"Aunt Kat?!" he spun on his heel, nearly falling over the divider. "How... long have you been around?"

"Long enough to know that you're juggling two girls, egbon. I must say, I thought you were a noble warrior..."

"Wait! It's not what you think...! I can-"

The older woman suddenly burst into laughter at his panicked state, especially when he finally caught on. His face deadpanned while he rubbed his sore bottom.

"Relax. I know all too well that matters of the heart are anything but simple, especially when dealing with connected souls. You are an honest young man, one who seeks a place where he belongs, a place to call home. It's why I chose to stick around and retire."

"You mean-?"

"Yes, Liam. While I've been absent from our family for many years, I never forgot the ways of our ancestors."

"So why does my..." Liam hesitated to call the woman his mother. "Why does she hate you so much? As far as I know, you were never mentioned. I only picked up on things when we were at the airport."

The former soldier approached the curious boy, leaning against the wall and looking up to the sky. "Memories, dear nephew, are like the stars above us. Alone, each one carries with it a shining beacon for those lost in the darkness seeking refuge and guidance. But, together they can be connected, forming something far bigger than anyone could imagine. Our family is no different..."

Liam was confused but didn't interrupt.

"I'm sure you've picked up on the use of language ever since your time in Yerba. I noticed the way you jerked when she called me idaji-ajọbi."

"Half-breed..." he replied, contempt and malice coating that wretched word. "She was always going on about preserving our bloodline and heritage. But I don't care about any of that stuff. As far as I'm concerned, you've been more like family in the few weeks than she's been my entire life."

"Well, let's just say that my existence was nothing short of a blight in her eyes. From as far as I can remember, Celeste treated me like I was disease-ridden. I was nothing in her eyes due to our mother. Your grandmother remarried after my father's death and had me. Celeste and our sister, Cecilia had differing opinions, but the former despised me for my father's bloodline being different. He was from the tribe of Aganju hence my eye color."

"But, shouldn't that be something to praise? You'd have a connection to two Orisha based on the teachings, right?"

"That's not how things are taught, egbon. All you need to know is two things: 1. Celeste is plotting to keep you in New Orleans, by any means. As a head of our people, she wants what you possess. You house a great power and destiny within your spirit."

The Faustian Burn... Liam flexed the fingers on his left hand, staring closely at the markings that resembled tattoos now. "I shouldn't be surprised. What's the second thing?"

"You're not facing your demons alone, Liam," the woman smirked confidently, slapping a hand on his back. "I spoke with that girl, Jade's mother, while you were gone and asked her to keep an eye on the house while we're gone in exchange for keeping her daughter safe. I'll be your shield so that you can wield your sword with pride!"

"Thanks, Auntie Kat!" Liam rushed to her and hugged the woman affectionately. Surprised by his sudden display, she eventually gave in and mirrored his gesture, rubbing his back. "Love you..."

Liam soon broke away and jogged into the house, wishing the woman a goodnight. Katalaya shook her head, smirking at the spot where he was seconds before with amusement. How did she come to adore such a soul in a short amount of time? Maybe Garou rubbed off on me? She quickly rolled her eyes, picturing the bald man laughing at her vulnerability before heading inside herself.

She spared a final glance at the Vega residence before locking up for the night.

Heading up the stairs, she checked the rooms as a security measure taught to her during her time in the military ranks. Usually, nothing would be found and she'd retire to her room, but a chill pointed her to Liam's bedroom, where she quietly opened the door. Her eyes adjusted quickly to the umbra setting, finding only her nephew resting soundly.

This did little to deter her from the suspicious air surrounding her. Her instincts told her that someone, or something, was here. Closing her eyes, the amber hue morphed into an amethyst hue before parting her lips.

"Shadows of wickedness, depart from this soul and return to your master..." she whispered, careful not to wake the boy. "...and give her this message. Ọna ọmọ rẹ jẹ tirẹ."

As expected, the iniquitous presence left quickly, allowing peace to return to the homestead. Katalaya gazed at the unconscious youth, grateful that he was unharmed. There was much to catch up on, but she would make the most of the time afforded to them. She was done with fighting battles for her country, but it seemed that she was content with stepping on the battlefield for Liam.

"Sinmi dada, egbon," she wished him goodnight before shutting the door. "...and I love you as well. Never forget."

[Hotel near LAX Airport]

The shadow entity floated through the night sky scouring the land below with anxious energy. When it found its owner, it swiftly merged into the body of a young woman, no older than her early twenties. Amethysts glowed for a moment before settling into their normal shade before she turned to enter the room.

Inside, an older woman sat on the edge of the bed, her multi-colored eyes demanded answers upon seeing her protege.

"What of the spell?"

"It seems my dear aunt arrived before it could be placed. She left a message as well: Ọna ọmọ rẹ jẹ tirẹ. It appears that she's serious about keeping him from us... and his destiny, mother. If we don't act soon, we could lose everything!"

Celeste waved off the concern from her daughter, tying her braided locs into a high bun.

"Save your energy, child. Liam has already agreed to come and he will. That's all we need for him to complete his purpose for our family and our clan. Sending your familiar was simply to test his soul. I never imagined she would've held onto our practices after all these years, but it matters not. In the end, Liam will see things our way; Whether it's by the olive branch or the blade, I'm certain of the outcome."

"So, what do we do?"

"I've left his protector the consequences if they decide against fulfilling their end of the agreement. For now, we head home and prepare."

"Prepare? For what, mother?"

Celeste finished wrapping her hair before turning to smile at her offspring. "The return of the prince! We have to arrange for the celebration."