Chapter 1

Wednesday strode across the quad, eyes remaining fixed on the doorway leading to Ophelia Hall. She kept to the edge, shoulders bumping into every dimple and dent in the dark stone, ignoring the ever persistent shouts coming from the central table. Not even three weeks into the second semester and she was questioning why she'd allowed her mother to sway her into returning to the noisy, crowded, angsty halls of Nevermore.
She revelled and thrived in the face of adversity, enjoyed the opportunity to prove herself above the common crowds of her peers, the satisfaction of being correct. So much so she'd made uncovering a serial killing monster her mission, and succeeded. This was not a challenge. This was torture, and not in a good way.

"Wednesday!"

Her shoulders bristled and tensed at the proximity of the call, making her grit her teeth, sigh and stop. "Bianca."

The siren frowned, stepping around the petite goth so she could see her face. "Did you not hear Enid and the others?"

Wednesday turned her gaze to the floor for a fleeting moment, then back to Bianca's face. 'I was thinking. What is it you want?"

"WE…" Bianca nodded her head towards the group. "We're inviting you to sit with us for lunch…speaking of which…" she frowned at the absence of a lunch tray, making Wednesday press her lips together in a firm line.

"My appetite eludes me today, Bianca. I fail to understand why this concerns you." Wednesday's grip tightened on the book she was holding.

Bianca folded her arms, cocking her hip. "You won't have a chance against me in fencing class. Not on an empty stomach."

Wednesday tilted her head. "Since when have you cared about level playing fields?" She paused, stepping around Bianca before she could stop her. "I'm not interested in a rematch today. And I have a novel to work on."

She was gone before Bianca turned around. Shaking her head, the siren returned to the table, reclaiming her spot as Xavier, Enid, and Ajax all leaned closer to her. "OK, something's up. She turned down a fencing match. With me."

Everyone's eyes widened. All of them glanced at the empty doorway, some frowning, some shaking their heads. Enid was the first to speak out.
"Since when does Wednesday Addams turn down a challenge?"

Xavier glanced at his ex. "Especially a Bianca challenge?"

Ajax shrugged his shoulders, fiddling with his beanie. "Maybe she's just busy."

"Too busy to have a stab at beating Bianca? No way…" At the siren's raised eyebrows, Enid shrunk back. "I said having a stab, not that she would."

"Can't you talk to her…hand friend?" Bianca leaned towards Enid. "Surely he…it knows what's up?"

Enid sighed, shaking her head. "I tried, so did Xavier. Even he's being kept in the dark. What if she's in trouble? Tracking another killer or something?"

"The only killer around here is locked up, and I'm pretty sure if she was on another brush-with-death quest she'd be questioning her suspects…" Xavier sighed, running a hand through his hair.

"Or dragging Enid out on her late night investigations." Ajax chimed, wrapping an arm around his girlfriend.

Enid pursed her lips. "What if something happened when she went home? Like, maybe someone died?"

Bianca scoffed. "The goth queen being sad about death? She'd have shared every gory detail."

"I still can't believe she turned down my weekend invite, I even guaranteed rain and drizzle." Enid sighed, resting her cheek on her hand. "She never texted me again after that…"

"Yeah, she cut me off too…" Xavier froze the moment the words tumbled out his mouth, flicking his gaze back and forth between the wide eyed flares of his friends. "Is it really that surprising that she texted me?"

Ajax blinked. "It's Wednesday Addams we're talking about, you know, the one who's dragged you for the better part of last year, accused you of being a serial killer, and got you thrown in jail."

Xavier huffed. "I think she redeemed herself when she took an arrow for me. Believe me, I wasn't expecting it."

"What did you talk about?" Bianca tilted her head, folding her arms and raising her eyebrows.

"Lot of things, point is she went radio silent a couple weeks before the start of semester." Xavier shot a side eye towards Bianca before turning back to Enid. "When did she stop texting you?"

Enid hummed. "Same as you, couple weeks ago…oh my god, something must've happened, that can't be a coincidence, right?"

Xavier shook his head. "No clue, but I think it's time we found out, don't you?"

"Question is how. If she's not talking, or Thing? Who else can we-" Ajax leaned across the table, tapping his fingers.

"I have a couple ideas, but we need Thing on side. Enid?" Xavier raised his eyebrows, nodding to his werewolf friend.

"I'll corner him later, bribe him with extra manicures. That always works." Enid clenched her fists. "What should I say?"

Xavier pressed his lips together. "Tell him we need to borrow the crystal ball, and her phone."

Bianca blinked, smirking. "Dangerous game, stealing from her. What's your plan?"

"An investigation, Addams style." Xavier raised his eyebrows, opening his hands. "Well, you guys in or not?"

Ajax, Enid and Bianca stared, each sitting with a lopsided smile on their faces as they listened to the rest of the plan. This was going to be interesting to say the least.


Wednesday sat at her desk, fingers tapping away against the typewriter keys. Seeing the small stack of paper accumulated to the side of her assured her that her decision of silent solitude was a productive decision. Vipers next adventure was over halfway done.
Seeing the time on her clock out the corner of her eye, she stepped away from the desk and ducked out the window, where Thing was waiting with her sheet music. As she settled into a proficient position with her cello, Thing signed non stop at her, earning a sharp scowl from the pig tailed girl.

"Why are you bringing this up again? I said I'm fine." Wednesday spat, picking up her bow while Thing signed erratically, rocking the music stand. "I'm busy, I don't have time for idle socialising." Thing jumped onto her lap, then scurrying onto her shoulder and signing again. "Do you want me to break your fingers? Or shall I lock you in the draw for the rest of the year?" Her eyes glared a hole through her companion, gritting her teeth.

Thing flinched, slowly creeping back down her arm and slumping onto the top of the music stand. As his guardian began to play, the creature took note of the slump in her posture, her sagging shoulders, and the misty glaze over her eyes.


Enid flickered her eyes back and forth over the magazine page in her hands, tapping her toes on the blanket beneath her. Her lungs felt like lead balloons as she lifted her eyes to Thing, who signed and gestured to the clock. Wednesday would be leaving for the beehives in 5 minutes, but each deafening sound of the typewriter keys across the room seemed to drag. She was pretty sure she was going to end up ripping the magazine apart if this wait went on much longer. In an attempt to distract herself, she called out across the room. "What time were you going to head to the hives again?"

A brief pause, then a sigh. "I'm going once I finish this page."

"Right…" and idea sprang to mind. "…could you do me a favour?" Enid sat up, pushing herself off the bed.

Wednesday inhaled, then let out a ragged breath. "What would that be?"

Enid fidgeted with her fingers. "Would you bring some honey back with you?" She watched as Wednesday turned, looking her up and down. "It's for Ajax…He asked me to ask you…"

"Will 2 jars be enough?" Wednesday raised her eyebrows.

"Perfect!" She glanced back at Thing, raising her eyebrows and nodding. "Also, Thing wants to hang with me and Ajax. That cool?"

Wednesday pressed her lips together. "Another manicure? You really are ridiculous sometimes." She watched as Thing shrugged, then sign further. She frowned at his question. "There aren't any games on my phone, what are you talking about?"

Biting the inside of her cheek, Enid sucked in a breath. "I showed him one on my phone, but since you don't use yours that much and I need mine with me, can I borrow it so I can download it for home to play?"

Wednesday sighed, opening her drawer and handing the phone to Enid. "One. Game. Got it?"

"Promise. Don't let us make you late for beekeeping!" Enid smiled, backing and flopping onto her bed, Thing scuttling over

Wednesday gazed for a moment, then nodded and strode out the door.


Enid waited, tapping her foot as she stared at the clock on her own phone. Who knew five minutes could take so long?!

The moment the timer ran down, she leapt from her bed to open the window pane and ushered Bianca, Xavier, and Bianca into the room. Thing hopped off the bed, scuttling up Wednesday's desk and yanking the cloth off the crystal ball. Xavier sat down in the seat, Ajax, Bianca and Enid crowding behind him.

"Go ahead, we don't have much time." Xavier glanced over his shoulder. "Lock the door."

Enid scurried behind her, while the rest of her friends stared on as Thing made a series of precise movements, ending with his fingers tapping the crystal ball. The sphere filled with mist, which whirled and spread across the glass like spilt paint. Once the mist cleared, a familiar figure appeared in the reflection, a wide smirk spread across her pale face.

"Hello Xavier." Morticia Addams voice echoed through the room.

Xavier, along with the rest of the group, blinked and frowned. "I'm surprised you remember me. How'd you know it-"

Morticia chuckled, tilting her head. "I had an inkling, and I never forget a face. But I'm sure your call isn't to wander down memory lane…"

"It's Wednesday. I-We are worried about her…she's not…herself." Xavier rubbed the back of his neck, shoot a side eye at Bianca's smirk and Ajax's snort.

"As am I. My little scorpion is troubled. I tried asking her, but alas, the treacherous waters of our mother-daughter bond has kept me in the dark about her troubles…" Morticia glanced at each of the group, a soft sigh escaping her. "…it gives me such joy to see she has found friends at Nevermore. I can tell how much you mean to her, even if it's hard to see."

Bianca huffed. "Did Wednesday have any visions while she was home? We think she's-"

Morticia interrupted with a head tilt. "Tracking another killer? She'd be filling your ears with every scrap of evidence she'd found, you know that yourself Enid."

Enid nodded, a small smile gracing her lips. "She still has the smelling salts in her draws…"

"But she was having visions. In the middle of the break. What she saw I cannot tell you." Mortician's eyes glazed over, and Xavier swore a faint tear brimmed in her eye.

Ajax called out. "I thought you were a psychic too? Can't you see into her visions or something?"

Morticia straightened up, drawing in a long breath. "As I told my daughter, our psychic power resides on the spectrum of who we are. As a dove, my premonitions are more positive in nature, thus I do not experience the type of visions a raven does. Nor can I help one to understand and harness their abilities."

Enid stepped forward. "When I looked at Wednesday's phone, before we called you, I found a bunch of things talking about 'controlling visions' and 'training the subconscious…"

"Oh, my poor viper…" Morticia rubbed her hands over her eyes, before turning her attention back to the teenagers. "Did Wednesday tell you how she survived that stab would in the crypt?"

Xavier nodded. "Something about a…Goody Addams?"

Morticia nodded back. "When one has psychic ability, someone in their bloodline reaches out from beyond the grave to provide guidance. Wednesday is the raven in Goody Addams' bloodline, thus when she needed guidance, Goody came to her…when Wednesday was injured, Goody used the talisman I gave my scorpion to pass through her body and heal her. Essentially, Goody sacrificed her spirit so that Wednesday could save Nevermore."

The group glanced at each other. Each asked the other, the question lurking in their eyes. All of them answered with a soft head shake.

Bianca breached the silence. "So when Goody saved her life…"

"…Wednesday lost her mentor." Xavier mumbled, a dull ache sitting in his chest.

"Is that why she's been googling this weird stuff? Trying to teach herself?" Ajax's question earned a smack to the back of the head from Enid.

"Trying is the operative word, little gorgon. It's one thing to learn to interpret what we see, to extract information. Controlling the visions themselves…impossible, not matter what one does…" Morticia shook her head slowly, a tear running down her slightly flushed cheek. "Wednesday's always been one to defy expectations, but I fear what will become of her…"

"What do you mean?" Bianca replied.

Morticia dabbed her cheeks with a black satin handkerchief. "The journey ravens take are paved with solitude and darkness, without proper guidance they can lead to madness. As I told my daughter, her former mentor was a powerful witch…but her vengeance pushed her too far. Not even she could save herself in the end…"

Thing scurried into Morticia's view, signing so fast his fingers wobbled, causing him to almost topple over. Morticia gasped, putting a hand over her mouth. "She's still not sleeping?"

"Yeah, I remember now! She woke me up at like 3 in morning, like two days ago." Enid cried out, then jumped as her phone buzzed in her hand. "Shit, she's on her way back! Everyone move!"

Bianca bolted out the window ducking around the side of the balcony, followed closely by Ajax and Thing. Enid grabbed her manicure bag, tossing Wednesday's phone into it before following her boyfriend.

Xavier moved to grab the cloth and throw it over the crystal ball, but stopped to smile and nod at Morticia. "Thank you, Mrs Addams-"

"Call me Morticia, dear. And one last thing before you go…" She paused, clasping her hands together and raising her eyebrows. "…Wednesday enjoys a cold water swim whenever something is bothering her. She once told me it clears her mind.

"…Got it." Xavier nodded again, throwing the cloth over the crystal ball as its murky mist blurred Morticia's face, then leapt out the chair to follow the group.


Xavier crouched behind the rock, peeping out across the edge of woodland that lay beside the now black lake. The crescent grin of the moon cast brilliant white rays all along the water's surface, making it glow and shimmer with each lazy ripple. No wind blew through the trees, but the clear sky left a mild chill in the air, sending a small shiver up his back and making him tug his hoodie tighter around his body.
Once he was somewhat comfortable, he opened his phone, ensuring the brightness was dimmed as he scrolled through his messages. His phone buzzed at he gazed at the screen.

She's just left! Good luck…
E

He let a long sigh rush out of his mouth. His heart was thumping and his stomach twisted into a knot. This was necessary, that much was clear. Wise? No. Dangerous? Possibly. But this was Wednesday Addams.
Adjusting his posture, he clicked on the text thread labelled "W", scrolling all the way to the top and scrolling through the best memories of the break.

W: Hello, Xavier

X: Wednesday Addams, to what do I owe this honour?

W: I need a distraction. Mother is driving me insane. And not in a good way.
Don't gloat.

X: That makes two of us. My father is making me want to scream and rip my hair out…perhaps we should be each other's distraction?

W: That seems reasonable. What distraction would you suggest?

X: Just talk to me, whenever you can and want to.

W: The last time I talked was with Enid. She bombarded me with a bunch of…memes, she called them? Apparently they were meant to make me laugh.

X: Did they?

W: I've never wanted to throw up more than when I looked at those pictures. And I live with my parents.

X: Haha, well I solemnly swear to never send you a meme.

W: I will hold you to that vow.

X: I'd expect nothing less. Aside from enduring Enid's antics, what else have you been doing with all your free time?

W: I've been working on the sequel to my novel. Avoiding my parents infuriating gushing over each other.

X: How far along is this sequel?

W: Almost half way done. Thing asked me to say hello by the way.

X: I'm glad. Tell Thing I say hello, and I hope he's doing okay.

W: I will. My father is calling me for dinner. Goodbye.

X: Until next time, Addams

~o~

X: Hi Wednesday, free to talk?

W: For a while. How are you, Xavier?

X: Praying for a miracle so I can get out of dinner with my father. I'd rather gouge my own eyes out than spend time with him.

W: You do know there's no such higher power, so praying is obsolete. I can suggest optimal methods for eye gouging if you need them.

X: Hahaha, when I become desperate, you will be my first point of call. How goes avoiding your parents?

W: I persuaded Pugsley to engage in a fishing competition. His defeat was satisfying to witness. Now he's sulking because I pointed out his terrible aim.

X: Didn't know you could fish. You'll have to teach me next year.

W: As long as you're comfortable handling grenades, I can educate you.

X: What the hell do you need grenades for in fishing?!

W: Efficiency sustaining a large catch, of course.

X: Wish I could say I'm shocked, but it's you.

W: I'll take that as a compliment. Why is your father forcing you to attend dinner?

X: Making sure the press believes I'm the perfect son of his he's always wanted. Nothing unusual.

W: I'd teach him a lesson if I was in your shoes. Embarrass him so much he can't stomach showing his face in front of a camera for the foreseeable future.

X: And how would the great Wednesday Addams take down my father? :)

W: The most discreet, effective, and efficient way to hand. In this case, Laxatives. Given in his drink right before the meal just in time for the cameras…

X: Holy shit, that is genius. Can you buy them over the counter?

W: Easily. I recommend something in liquid form. Pay in cash. Make him a drink right before you leave. Watch the magic happen.

X: You are evil and I love it :D

W: Thank you.

X: I better go, I have to get ready for this evening.

W: Enjoy yourself, Xavier

X: I think I will, see ya Wednesday

~o~

W: My parents are being insufferable. I require your distraction.

X: Hello to you too, Addams. What did they do this time?

W: Serenading each other at the dinner table. I left before my sanity was completely obliterated. How did your dinner with your father go the other night?

X: It was…eventful…in the most hilarious way. He still hasn't fully recovered and is ripping his hair out trying to figure out what happened XD

W: Successful revenge the first go around. There's hope for you yet, Xavier Thorpe :)

X: My god, was I just complimented by the mighty Wednesday Addams?!

W: Don't let it go to your head. Where is your father now?

X: Nursing his ego and stomach in his room. I've never felt more peaceful in all my years :)

W: Glad I could help.

X: Well, what have you been doing? How's Thing and Pugsley?

W: Thing has been video chatting with Enid non-stop for manicures and 'catching up' as they call it. Pugsley has been tinkering and building for the most part. He still has yet to top my steam powered guillotine, but I admire his enthusiasm.

X: A steam powered guillotine?! Where did you buy something like that?

W: I built it when I was ten. Made it easier to decapitate my dolls.

X: Of course you did XD.
Is there any death inducing machine that you don't have?

W: I will have to take inventory and get back to you.
Thing wants to know how you're doing, he won't stop pestering me until he has an answer.

X: Haha, tell him I'm fine, and that I still owe him one for getting me out of those chains back in Jericho.

W: He says to tell you he takes payment in hand lotion. His vanity is repulsive at times, I swear.

X: I'll make a note :)
How is the novel coming along?

W: I only have a quarter left to write. Viper's adventure is about to reach the pinnacle.

X: Intriguing, I'd like to read it when it's done.

W: I suppose it would be acceptable to send you the finished first novel. Some first hand feedback would be useful.

X: Hasn't Enid read any of it?

W: She cannot stomach the gruesome and macabre. The amount of times I had to use smelling salts during my investigation last year is astronomical.

X: So I'll be the first? I'm flattered :)

W: Don't gloat.
I'm curious about something.

X: What's that?

W: What have you been drawing? Or rather, have you been drawing anything since last year's events?

X: I have been drawing. Mostly things I see when I'm outside. Why, would you like to see some?

W: Consider it a quid pro quo. But yes, I would like to see some of your art.
I have to go now. I'll send Lurch with my novel tomorrow. He'll collect your art from you then.

X: OK, I'll be ready.
Good night, Wednesday

~o~

X: I finished your novel, Addams. I can honestly say it's incredible.

W: You only got it yesterday. Impressive.

X: Once I started I couldn't put it down. I knew you were talented but…you created something special, Wednesday.

W: I appreciate your praise. Did you have any thoughts or feedback aside from that?

X: Truthfully? I wish it was a longer adventure. I wanted to see more. Aside from that, it was brilliant :)

W: The landscapes you sent are impressive. The one of the well above the city encapsulates solitude quite satisfactorily.

X: I drew that with you in mind. All of them came out when I was thinking about you.

W: Like what you painted after the RaveN?

X: Yeah. That's still one of my favourite paintings I've ever done.

W: Do you enjoy music?

X: Depends on which artist you're talking about. As long as it's not rapping, I have pretty open tastes.

W: I share the sentiment that rapping is an assault on the ears, should be banned, and punishable by death. I was referring to classical and orchestra.

X: Well I enjoyed your rooftop cello solos, though I can't say I'd recognise the songs if I heard them.

W: Would it be acceptable to send you some pieces I play, so you can make an informed judgement?

X: Yes, Wednesday. I'd love to hear you play more.

W: Very well, I will send them to you at the earliest convenience.

X: I look forward to it, Addams.

W: Then if you'll excuse me, I should start right away.

X: Certainly. Good night :)

~o~

W: File sent; Cello 1: Sound of Silence
W: File sent; Cello 2: Orphan
W: File sent; Cello 3: The Nightmare in C Minor
W: File sent; Cello 4: Nocturne in C sharp Minor
W: File sent; Cello 5: Caprice No.24

X: OK, these sound insane! How do you even play at that speed, Addams?

W: Years of practice, I suppose. The children growing up around me pursued typical normie interests. Immersing myself in my cello allowed me to block out their mediocre conversations and irritating habits.
I'm interested to know which one is your favourite.

X: Sound of Silence sounds unreal on the cello, and it's one of my favourite songs regardless. But I especially enjoyed Nocturne. Very Wednesday Addams ;)

W: Chopin was known for composing from personal experiences, including when he expressed the melancholy of all his Nocturnes. Are you saying I'm melancholy?

X: Only sometimes ;). But seriously, when you're playing, it's like I can feel everything that's going through your mind. It's complex, intriguing. Like you.

W: I hope you're not expecting such flattery in return.

X: Never XD.
If it's alright, may I sit with you one day, while you play?

W: I'll think about it. Thing wants me to ask you to paint him one day. I swear he's the most pampered, egotistical creature on this planet.

X: I can do that, but he'll have to promise he can stay still for up to an hour.

W: Would it take you that long to paint him?

X: Probably not, but it'd be interesting to see how long I could make him stay still, since he's always scuttling about whenever I see him with you :)

W: How devious and cruel. I'll let him know your conditions.

X: Can I take that as a compliment? ;)

W: I suppose so. Is your father still wallowing in embarrassment and self loathing?

X: He seems to have got over it, though he's avoiding the press like the plague whenever possible XD

W: Shame. That means he'll be dragging you around like a lapdog before long.

X: Don't tell me Wednesday Addams is going soft.

W: Not a chance. As I told Enid, I'm evolving.

X: One day at a time, right Addams?
Father's calling, better go. Night :)

W: Good night

~o~

X: How goes your day, Addams?

W: I've just completed my daily fencing and fitness with my uncle. He asked about you.

X: I remember that guy! Uncle Fester, was it?And what did you say about me?

W: That you were doing fine based on our contact and that I would likely be speaking with you later.

X: Yeah? What did he think about that?

W: Something along the lines of if you decide to cause me any harm he'd personally send as many volts through your body as possible for as long as possible. Or that he'd slice you into sashimi with his favourite sword. Whichever I'd prefer.

X: Right, noted. You did tell him I'd never intentionally hurt you, didn't you?

W: I told him I could take you in a fight any day of the week and win easily. And that I know you're not my enemy.

X: I'm relieved to know I'm not on your hit list, Addams. Was your uncle the one who taught you fencing?

W: And fighting. He was a prisoner in a Tibetan monastery for four years, learnt martial arts from them. He's the reason for my…unique fighting style.

X: You leapt upside down through the air in your match with Bianca, I'd call that more than unique :)

W: I've not had the pleasure of defeating you in a fencing match yet. I hope to rectify that next semester.

X: So you're coming back?! That's the best news I've heard in a while. And I gladly accept your challenge, but I won't go down without a fight ;)

W: Good. It's more fun when the opponent squirms and resists.
What was the last good news you got?

X: Hearing you survived your fight with Crackstone.

W: You doubted I would?

X: No, but seeing you alive after that arrow hit you was a relief.

W: Even after I got you locked up due to misinformation and plunged your entire existence into destructive chaos?

X: I've forgave you for that a long time ago. Everyone makes mistakes, even you.

W: Mistakes on my part are a rare occurrence, but your sentiment is appreciated.
I should go, before my mother sends out a search party.

X: Fair enough, where are you anyway?

W: Graveyard. I couldn't stomach my parents gazing longingly at each other another second. That was four hours ago.

X: Well if you need me, I'm always here to distract you :)

W: Have a good day, Xavier

X: You too, Addams

~o~

W: Are you awake?

X: I am now. Is everything OK?

W: I worked on my novel longer than usual, now my brain is refusing to slow down.

X: Been there before. I used to stay awake painting the walls around Nevermore when I couldn't sleep. I was painting the first time you played your cello on the rooftop.

W: How do you navigate restlessness?

X: By doing something that relaxes me. Play a game, listen to music. What relaxes you?

W: I don't know how to relax myself.

X: Tell me about your day. What did you do?

W: I watched the thunderstorm earlier. The lightning was bright and vivid and split the sky into jagged mismatched segments. It was incredible.

X: The way you talk about it, I can picture it so clearly. Like I can picture every scene in your novel.

W: Thunderstorms are heart stopping, sometimes literally. You should watch them.

X: I will. If we get one next semester, watch it with me?

W: I'll think about it.

X: What else did you do?

W: My mother strong armed me into a shopping trip. Her repeated efforts to try and make me a mirror image of her becomes more tiresome every day. I was only able to appease her by agreeing to buy one new dress.

X: I take it you're not a fan of this typical teenage pastime?

W: The concept of dressing to impress, combined with the endless drawls and girlish cackles makes me want to gouge my own ears off with a rusty knife.

X: No wonder Enid had to drag you out to find a dress for the Rave'N XD.
I will say this, you looked wonderful in that dress. And I'm sure whatever dress you bought will look great as well :)

W: I prefer the comfort of clothing over aesthetic appeal, but lucky for my sanity, the dress I settled on fell into both categories.

X: I'm sure you'll sell it, Addams. Did you buy anything else?

W: Three new shirts, some jeans, and a new school bag. The other one broke last year. I did see some stuff that brought you and the others to mind.

X: Oh? Like what?

W: I walked past a shop that had a variety of Lunar related products and books. It brought back memories of my fight with Enid, and when she came to my aid after the hyde attacked me.

W: The ornament and antiques store brought Ajax and Enid to mind, how I traded assignments with Enid so I could gather more evidence and give her the option to spend time with Ajax. And how that led to their failure of a first date because the dunse managed to stone himself.

X: He told me about that, and mentioned how he kept looking over his shoulder for weeks after waiting for your revenge against him.

W: I considered it, but concluded no malice was intended and thus chose to spare him. I have warned him I'll nail gun his heart to the wall if he hurts Enid.

X: Haha, of course. What place made you think of me?

W: You came to mind when I saw the library. It made me think of the night I was brought to the Nightshade library and you suggested I be invited to pledge. You went against every other nightshade, including Bianca.

X: I wanted you to know I had your back, regardless of what the others thought. It did bum me out when you refused.

W: I had my reasons. I'll tell you about them another day.

W: I also thought of you when I saw a horrific conglomerate of graffiti around the town. It reminded me of the story you told me about the normies who vandalised your mural, and how I'd rather see actual art painted across town than the stupid words that are there.

X: It's nice to hear someone appreciates my talents. Thank you.

X: It means a lot.

W: You need to sleep. I've kept you awake long enough. Good night.

X: Sleep well, Wednesday :)

Aside from his reaching out, the message thread was barren after that. He'd wished for a simple explanation, an apology maybe, but the moment they walked through the Nevermore gates, he'd seen the Wednesday who first arrived. The one whose aura exuded coldness, indifference. Loneliness.
Even crossing paths in the school hall, she marched on without so much as eye contact. What had happened?
He was yanked of that train of thought by a snapping sound. Coming from his left side and getting closer. Shutting his phone off, he scrambled to the other side of the rock, avoiding all the twigs he could see and pressing his back against the rough surface. The snapping sound was now deafening in his ears as he crouched down and peeled around the curve of his hiding spot.
The pig tailed goth girl strode out of the tree line, her face paler than usual and lips pressed together into a firm line. She was carrying a black duffel bag and staring out at the endless rippling water. Her head swivelled to scan her surroundings, then turned back to the water.
Xavier swallowed as he watched Wednesday pull her braids loose, letting her hair fall in obsidian waves down her back. His conscious screamed at him to avert his gaze, but his body kept him in place at he watched each piece of clothing hit the top of the duffel bag, swallowing at the sight of her in nothing but boy shorts underwear and a lacy black bra. Her skin was brilliant white under the eyes of the moon, and Xavier could feel the heat rising in his body as he looked on. Screwing his eyes shut, he clamped a hand over his mouth

Focus, you idiot.

He then watched with wide eyes and a boyish smirk as Wednesday ran down the shoreline before diving into the water with a graceful splash.
Knocking his knuckles against the stone thirty times, he assured himself that he was justified in coming out of the shadows. He kept his back against the rock, noting which ways were a clearer path than others.
When she resurfaced the first time, he caught how her hair floated atop the water, making it look as though she could melt into the lake and disappear at any moment. He could already see the goosebumps rippling up her arms, yet no change to her vacant gaze.
The moment she slid beneath the water, he wandered forward a couple of steps.
Tapping his fingers against the pockets of his jacket, he counted until he saw her body emerge once more. She allowed herself to float, staring up at the cloudless sky, the same stoic look adorning her porcelain features. Her eyes could pierce anything and anyone with that gaze, yet now the seemed…softer.
The slosh of treading water echoed around him. Her slender arms ploughed through the water as she made her way back to the shoreline. With every moment that passed, Xavier felt his back straighten and his legs tense. He took a deep breath as her ebony eyes finally landed on him and met his gaze.

"Hey, Addams."

She scowled, pulling herself onto the grassy shore. "What are you doing here?"

Xavier tilted his head, shoving his hands into his pockets. "I could ask you the same. Bit late for a swim, isn't it?"

"Did you follow me here?" She glared through him.

"Educated guess." Xavier raised his eyebrows. "You didn't answer my question."

"I go where I want, when I want, with who I want." She stood up, folding her arms in front of her. "Did Enid tell you I was sneaking out?"

Xavier mirrored her stance. "She's worried about you. All of us are-"

Wednesday lowered her gaze to his chest. "I'm fine."

"Avoiding your friends, sneaking out in the middle of the night, going radio silent on all of us…is that what you call fine?" Xavier narrowed his eyes, leaning forward. He hummed when she took a large step back. "So there is something wrong…"

"I've been busy. I fail to understand your problem-"

Xavier scoffed. "Bullshit. Don't think I don't know you rejected the chance to visit Enid. You're telling me you stopping texting me was a pure coincidence?"

Wednesday shut her eyes, gritting her teeth and sighing. "You need to go. NOW."

"No."

"What?"

"I said no. Not until I get the truth." Xavier took another step toward her.

Wednesday flinched, stepping around him and ruffling around in her duffel bag. "Then I'll leave."

Xavier shook his head. The stubbornness of this girl…"This is about your visions, isn't it?"

She froze, keeping her gaze fixed to the ground and ignoring the rising heartbeat inside her.

"That's why you stopped texting me, isn't it? And Enid? You saw something."

Her eyes clamped shut, straining to keep her breathing even and the glossy news over her eyes hidden. She gripped her bag, her knuckles turning even whiter than normal.
Xavier took a deep breath, reaching for her arm. "Look whatever is happening-"

"DON'T!" She swivelled to her feet as his hand wrapped around her upper arm. Her eyes turned wild and her chest heaved.

"Wednesday?" Xavier froze, his hold on the goth girl's arm staying firm. He scanned her every feature, blinking at the single tear rolling down her left cheek. "Please, talk to me-"

She shook her head. "I don't have the answers…"

Xavier frowned. "What answers?"

"To everything!" Her cry sent a twisting pain through the boys chest. "Everything I've tried hasn't worked. I don't know what to do. I don't have the answers, Xavier. I can't…I don't know how to do any of this…"

He pulled her into his chest, burying his face in her hair and keeping a hand on the back of her head. She froze for an instant, the collapsed against him, gripping his hoodie and pressing her ear to his chest. She was silent, save for the deep breaths heaving in and out of her chest, but he felt his shirt dampening with each exhale. "I'm here, Wednesday. We'll figure this out."

She pulled away to look up at him, tears still flowing. "I can't put anyone in danger. Not again."

"Why would your visions put us at risk?" He ran his thumbs over her cheeks, wiping away every tear that fell.

"The phone you gave me before I left…on my way back I got a message from an unknown number…pictures of me with you, and others. Someone is watching me…" She paused, shaking her head and folding her arms. "I don't know who, or why, but everything I've seen is telling me that they're going to use you all to get to me. I got enough people killed last year-"

Xavier grabbed her shoulders. "No, The Hyde killed those people. That would've happened whether you saw it or not-"

"I could've stopped him sooner-"

"You did everything you could-"

Wednesday clutched her head. "I won't risk any of you again! I can't lose you!"

Xavier stopped, releasing her shoulders and grasping her hands in his. Pulling her to him, he leaned down until he was at eye level. "You're not going to lose me, or any of us." He flashed her a playful smirk, running a finger down her jawline. "You are Wednesday fucking Addams. This bastard doesn't know who he's messing with. Don't you dare forget that."

The edge of her lips curled up ever so slightly as she ran her own hand along the side of his face. She marvelled at the way he leaned into her touch, eyes half closed and glazing over. "If I have a vision when I do this, I apologise in advance."

"Do what-"

She silenced him by crashing her lips into his. Her hands gripped his arms through the hoodie, while his hands settled on her cheeks, cupping her face and keeping her close. She dragged her teeth along his bottom lip, drawing a stuttered gasp out of him that sent sparks straight through her whole body.
Xavier allowed his hands to drift lower, wrapping them around her waist and hoisting her up. He smirked when he heard her whimper, walking them over to the rock until her back was flush against it.
He pulled away to take in air, swallowing at her now soft pink cheeks and heaving chest. Her half open eyes foggy and alive all at once, her damp skin bared to him with that obsidian pendent resting between her cleavage . He couldn't help but smile. "Any sign of a vision?"
Seeing her shake her head, he nodded. "Thank God."
Wednesday gripped the back of his neck as he returned to her lips, pulling the loose bun his hair was tied in out and running her fingers along his scalp and the nape of his neck. It wasn't long before he found his way to her neck, nibbling every inch of skin he could reach before soothing it with his tongue. Every gasp, whimper and moan he committed to memory, how she moved against his body and the way her slender arms were clinging to him.

"X-Xavier…" Wednesday pressed her nails into his shoulders, her head lolling back against the coarse stone.

He pulled back, scanning her face for anything amiss. "You OK?

Wednesday's nod was just visible in the dim light. "I…I don't want to go back to my room…can I…can I stay with you?"

Xavier gazed into her eyes, seeing how vacant and glazes they were. It was more than the effects of their current position behind them. A more concerning fog lingered there. How many nights had she snuck out since she'd been back?

Offering a soft smile and a kiss at the corner of her lips, he lowered her down, keeping one arm curled around her waist. "Only if you promise to rest."


The trek back to Nevermore was not long enough for Wednesday. Each step back made her want to bolt to the lake. Freeze the moment she was pressed between that boulder and the boy walking beside her. Feel the way her skin tingled when his lips touched hers. The shadow of the building in front of her, along with the gentle warmth of Xavier's hand on her back was reminder of the stakes. She had to get this right.
Xavier directed her through the halls, allowing the silence to float around them. There would be time for questions later, what mattered right now was taking care of Wednesday.
She yanked her shoes off the moment they cross the threshold of his room, dropping them by the door and leaning back against it. Xavier dropped her bag by the door, then riffled through his draws until he found an old oversized grey t-shirt.

"Here, holler if you need me." He smiled, tossing the shirt to her before picking his own pajamas up and strolling into the bathroom.

She waited until she heard the door click before shrugging her clothes off her body and pulling the t-shirt on. The fabric fell just above her knees, the scent of chemicals and oils drifting up her nose. The corner of her lips curled ever so slightly.

Very Xavier Thorpe.

"All good?" Xavier's hand felt warm on her shoulder.

She threaded her fingers between his, taking a step back to lean against him "Thank you…"

Turning her to face him, he tugged her arm and lead her to the bed, shuffling across and patting the mattress. She let out the breath she was holding as she laid her head on his chest, her whole form falling into blissful darkness.


Xavier rubbed his eyes, grimacing at the morning light peeking through the curtains. The foreign warmth beside him brought a soft smile to his face. The flyaway hairs, her partly open mouth, her soft fingers gripping his shirt painted her the picture of peace.
Planting a feather kiss on her forehead, he stretched behind him and grabbed his phone, smirking at the pile of messages from their friends.

E: Is everything OK? What happened? Where's Wednesday?

B: Mind letting us know you're both alive?

A: Hey man, hope all's good. Let us know you're both OK.

Xavier shook his head, typing out and copying a reply to each of the threads.

X: Everything's fine. Wednesday crashed at mine last night and she's still sleeping. She's pretty beat, so I'm gonna stay with her until she perks up a bit.
Thanks for checking in :)

Tossing the phone back on his bedside table, he inched himself away from the sleeping girl and tiptoed into the bathroom. The lukewarm water was welcome as it ran along his skin and hair, relieving the tension lingering in his shoulders from last night.
Everything that was said, done, replayed like a tape through his mind while the sharp scent of his shampoo and soap floated around him. It sent a rush through him that settled in his groin, and he turned the shower cooler with his now unsteady hand.
After a good few minutes under the cold flow, he stepped out, ringing his hair out over the sink and wrapping a towel around himself before brushing his teeth. His ears soon caught the sound of his bed creaking, followed by a sleepy grumble and a long sigh.

"Xavier?"

Xavier smiled to himself, dragging a comb through his hair. "Bathroom. Gimme a second…" He pulled the door open, his smile widening at Wednesday's form sat on his bed, legs curled into her chest with her chin resting on top of her knees. "Morning…"

"Morning…" Wednesday scanned him over with his eyes. "When did you get up?"

"Not long ago…I didn't wake you, did I?" Xavier tilted his head, meandering over to his dresser and grabbing what he needed and then perching at the end of his bed.

Wednesday shook her head. "Waking up early is part of my routine."

Xavier nodded. "And how are you feeling?"

"Less tired. Less like someone chloroformed me without the proper technique and knowledge. And somewhat more focused." Wednesday lowered her gaze, squeezing her legs tighter. "I still saw those dreams…"

"Come here…" He opened his arm, enclosing it around her when she shuffled herself into his hold. "I'm guessing Enid's going to drop some more clothes off for you. Unless you want to go back to Ophelia Hall and freshen up there?"

Wednesday pursed her lips. "I'm fine here. She'll only bombard me with questions up there."

Xavier sighed. "Speaking of, I think it would be a wise idea to clue everyone in sooner rather than later…" He felt her tense up, and squeezed her shoulders in return. "Look, I get it. You want to keep us safe, but we can't watch our own backs unless we know what we're up against." He ran his index finger and thumb along her pendent. "Let us take some of the load…"

Wednesday pulled back, gazing up at him through her eyelashes, offering a single nod. "Tell them we'll meet in the Nightshade library tonight."

"Alright. I'm gonna get dressed."

She nodded once more, turning around and facing the top of the bed. The rustling of clothing rang in her ears and she found herself peeking over her shoulder to watch how the muscles in his back flexed with each movement. She stopped when the heat in her cheeks began to rise too high, letting out a quiet breathy sigh. Her whole body tensed when she felt a tapping on her shoulder. And found herself blinking at a shirtless Xavier. She raised her eyebrows at the tiny smirk on his face. "Do you require help finding a shirt?"

Xavier chuckled. "I know where they are, just figured this way we're even." He reached out, fiddling with a lock of her hair.

"…If you aim to be on equal footing with me…" She paused, looking between his hand and his face, then pushing herself to stand before him. "…wouldn't it make more sense to be like this?"

Before he could open his mouth, he was pushed to sit on the bed, Wednesday seated in his lap with her hands resting against on the side of his neck. His hands clamped onto her waist, tugging her closer and resting his forehead against hers. "Is this more to your liking, Addams?"

One of her hands glided along his shoulder, down his chest and back up, skirting over his collarbone. Her gaze followed where her hand lead. "Every time I touch something, there's a chance I'll ruin something like…this…or see something that drags my life, yours, and everyone else's into my chaotic orbit…"

"I'll hold you until it passes…" Xavier breathed, letting his eyes close. "…As for that chaotic orbit…you wouldn't be you without it."

He pulled in for a kiss, cupping the back of her head with one hand and tightening his grasp on her waist. Hearing her sigh, he pushed his hand under the back of the shirt and deepened their embrace.
Wednesday's hands cupped his face, opening her mouth and sucking Xavier's bottom lip between her teeth. She shivered at the moan that echoed in his throat, letting her fingers slide up into his hair and tug it at the roots.
Xavier inhaled sharply, mirroring her movements as he dragged his lips down the side of her neck, earning a high pitched gasp from Wednesday when he nibbled the curve between her shoulder and neck.
He drew back, smiling at the red and purple blemish adorning her skin. Only to be stopped when the petite girl yanked his head back and pressed a hard kiss to his lips. "Christ, Addams…"

She offered a tiny smirk, loosening her grip. "What did I tell you about higher powers?"

Xavier grinned, a laugh falling out of his mouth. He clocked the way her stare softened. "What?"

"I've never heard you laugh like that. I find it a…satisfying sound to listen to." She broke eye contact, fiddling with the pendent.

"You've had that pendent a long time. What is it?" Xavier tilted his head.

Wednesday held it up, flipping it upside down, then the right way up. "Mother gifted it to me. Our initials. According to her, Aztec priests used obsidian to help conjure visions."

Xavier took the pendent in his hand, examining it. "It's very you." Seeing her frown, he continued. "Mysterious, unpredictable, unique."

"Ironic that my visions started before I came here, and it was her mothering instinct that drove her to give this to me rather than her psychic ability." Wednesday sighed. "She's infuriatingly wise…sometimes."

"She's your mother. They have a knack for that sort of thing." Xavier held her against him. "Letting family love you isn't a weakness."

Wednesday nodded, then straightened up. "This stays between us, or I will rip your tongue out and feed it to one of my pets."

Xavier chuckled. "Understood."


How do you cure writer's block on one story? BEGIN ANOTHER :D

So...until the next chapter, friends.

The music mentioned in this chapter can be found in the links below;

watch?v=E3xYcNUWC2M&list=LL&index=8

watch?v=ABxpQOA-V-E&list=LL&index=7

watch?v=rlP5o1yNCXQ&list=LL&index=6

watch?v=WGDqjxfkQjU&list=LL&index=5

watch?v=7mO23ooI4rw