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 18: Courtesy Call

The plane hummed steadily as it carried its passengers toward their destination; the realm of Mardi Gras & magic, New Orleans. A group of excited teenagers chattered in the middle rows about their upcoming spring break adventure. Amidst them sat Liam, and Tori, their forced smiles hiding the anxiety churning in their stomachs.

A few rows ahead, Katalaya and Lilith West, Jade's mother, sat side by side. Despite their initial awkwardness, they warmed up to each other as they discussed the challenges of escorting the upbeat group.

"So, Bourbon Street, right?" One of their friends, Andre, called out excitedly. "I heard it's pretty wild around this time of year!"

Jade forced herself to reply, leaning her head against her boyfriend's shoulder. "Yeah, totally wild," she slipped a knowing glance across the aisle with Tori and Liam.

As their friends continued to plan their escapades, Liam leaned in closer to the girls from his window seat. "We need to be prepared for anything," he whispered. "My family... they're not known for playing fair."

Tori nodded, her hand finding Liam's under the blanket they shared. "We're with you, Eshu. No matter what happens."

Jade bit her lip, conflict evident in her eyes. As if this trip alone wasn't bad enough, her mother had insisted on going as well. It didn't help Jade's case when the woman offered to sponsor the trip, earning the other's favor. "I still think this is a bad idea," she muttered just low enough to avoid catching Beck's attention."But if we're doing this, we're doing it together."

Liam looked between them, gratitude written across his face. "I couldn't do this without you two. Just... be careful. I expect... her to be manipulative. Don't let them get into your heads."

"Fat chance of that," Jade scoffed, but her tone was milder than usual.

Tori squeezed Liam's hand. "We've got your back, always."

As the plane began its descent into New Orleans, the trio spared one final meaningful glance. The city below held both promise and peril, and they knew that this "spring break" would be unlike anything they could imagine. With Katalaya and Lilith keeping an eye on things, they braced themselves for whatever lay ahead in the jazz, magic, and long-buried secrets.

In a dimly lit room adorned with ancient symbols and flickering candles, Celeste and Lucille stood before a tall, imposing figure. The coven leader, her face obscured by shadows, sat on an ornate chair that seemed more like a throne.

Celeste stepped forward, her voice low and urgent. "Madame Laveau, we've received word. Liam, my son, is returning to New Orleans."

The figure leaned forward slightly, interest piqued. "So, your prodigal son returns. And what do you intend to do about this, Celeste? Would you have me believe that you're simply revealing this just because?"

Celeste's eyes gleamed with a hint of rebellious fire. "I... humbly request your assistance to ensure he stays. He's the rightful heir to our legacy, to the throne of our coven. We can't allow him to slip away again."

Lucille shifted uncomfortably beside her mother yet remained silent.

"And what of the boy's wishes, arabinrin?" Madame Laveau simpered, her voice carrying a hint of amusement.

Celeste waved her hand dismissively, ignoring any mention of their connection. "He doesn't understand the significance of his destiny, he never did. We must make him see his role in the plans of our ancestors, by any means necessary."

The coven leader hummed thoughtfully. "You propose to keep him here against his will?"

"If I must," Celeste replied firmly. "The power that runs through his veins is too valuable to lose. Our family needs him to represent our branch of the order."

Madame Laveau sat back, considering the elder woman's words carefully. "And what of those who accompany him? You mentioned before he wouldn't be traveling alone. Correct?"

Celeste's lips curled slightly. "Mere distractions. Nothing that can't be handled."

"Very well," the leader spoke after a moment. "I grant you the order's resources. But tread carefully, arabinrin. The old ways demand balance. Force his hand too strongly, and you may lose him forever."

Celeste bowed her head. "Thank you, Madame. I won't fail."

As they turned to leave, Lucille cast a worried glance back at the shadowy figure. The weight of their plans hung heavy in the air, mingling with the scent of incense and whispers of ancient magic that permeated the room. This appeared to match her heart with every step further from their people's matriarch, her mind filled with questions that demanded answers; Answers she knew not the answers to.

Why would Madame Laveau grant them the resources necessary to replace her on the throne?

What was the name she called her mother? Not once but twice.

Why did she feel guilty after all this time?

The streets of the French Quarter were quiet under the cover of night with only a few souls wandering by. This was acceptable for Liam as he wished to avoid any unnecessary contact. With the others sound asleep, he slipped out in hopes of clearing his mind. Turning a corner, he nearly collided with a familiar figure. His heart sank once he recognized her even under the shroud of shadows.

"Liam?" she replied her voice a mix of surprise and something softer, quickly masking it.

"Lucille," he tensed. Glancing around, Liam expected to see other family members or associates of his mother's group. "Are you here to ambush me?"

To his shock, Lucille's expression flickered with hurt at his accusation before hardening. "I came here alone. Believe it or not, I just want to talk."

Liam crossed his arms, skeptical but curious. "Talk about what? I thought that woman did all the talking for you anyway."

"About you coming home," she almost sounded like she was pleading with him. "About taking your rightful place in the family, in the order."

He shook his head. "We've been over this. I'm not interested in whatever destiny you think I have here."

"But it's who you are, Liam!" she pressed. "You can't run from your heritage, your power."

"Watch me," Liam retorted, turning to leave.

Lucille seized his arm "What about your little friends? Jade and Victoria, was it? Do you believe they understand what you are, what you're capable of?"

Liam yanked his arm free, eyes blazing with demonic fury. "Leave them out of this!"

"They're holding you back," Lucille's gaze flared, matching his own. "They cannot possibly comprehend our world, our responsibilities. The burdens we carry would make them shy away the moment they find out!"

"You underestimate them, arabinrin..."Liam said, his voice simmering with rage. "They know more than you think. They've supported me for who I am, not what they want me to be. While you and our family bark about destinies and fate, they pushed me to forge my path. I've lost so much, yet they never once left me, even after all that's happened. Why would I repay their faith with doubts?"

The young boy stood in silence, observing his older sister's expression transform before his eyes. He noticed her once gentle features morphing into an intense scowl, etching lines of worry and frustration across her face. It was as if the weight of the world had settled on her shoulders, prematurely aging her despite her tender age. Unlike him, she hadn't been afforded the carefree joy of childhood, or the opportunity to escape this nightmare. Instead, she had been thrust into a role determined by forces beyond her control. From birth, she had been designated as a priestess, destined to inherit the responsibilities of ancient healing and spiritual practices, whether or not she yearned for such a burden.

In Lucille's eyes, she saw a stark contrast in their lives. While she was willing to agree to the terms of her chosen path, Liam was always resistant. Despite the training and perks afforded to him, she never believed that he would surrender to the predestined outcome of his life. Even worse, he was considered a prodigy in the arts and combat while she worked tooth and nail for her place at the table.

Needless to say, though she loved him dearly, Lucille was also envious of Liam.

"You're making a mistake, brother... There are forces at work here bigger than your little crushes."

"Is that a threat?" he asked, eyes narrowing, urging his sibling to choose her words wisely.

"It is simply a warning. Things are going to change, Liam. With or without your cooperation. I'm trying to help you."

For a moment, Liam spotted a glimpse of the sister he once knew, concern shining through her tough exterior. But he strengthened his heart against this, for what if it was only a smokescreen?

"I don't need your help," he uttered firmly with conviction. "Goodnight, Lucille."

As Liam walked away, Lucille called after him but to no avail, "This isn't over, brother. Sooner or later, you'll have to face who you are."

Liam kept walking, his mind racing. The encounter left him shaken, not just from the veiled threats, but from the realization of how much he had missed his sister, despite everything. He pushed the feeling aside for now, focusing on what challenges lay ahead and the friends he'd probably have to protect.

"Did think you'd be back here, huh?"

He nodded, noticing a figure emerge from the shadows, a ghost of a grin on her lips. "Was I that obvious?"

His aunt let out a chuckle at his poor attempt at a joke. I know the feeling. This place... it holds so many memories, doesn't it?"

Liam kicked at a loose pebble on the sidewalk.

"How did you do it, Aunt Kat? How did you leave it all behind so easily?"

Katalaya sighed, her gaze distant as they wandered to the hotel. "It wasn't easy, Liam. Our family, this city... they have a way of getting under your skin, making you believe you have no choice but to follow the path they carve out for you."

"But you found a way out," Liam raised a brow.

"I did," she confirmed. "I planned, I schemed, I took every opportunity I could to learn the skill that would help me survive on my own. And when the moment came, I ran and didn't look back."

They paused at a small park, sitting on a bench beneath a sprawling oak tree.

"There were times I thought about giving up," Katalaya continued. "The loneliness, the fear of being found... it was overwhelming. But I knew going back would mean giving up who I truly was."

Liam nodded, his countenance full of thoughts. "I felt the same way. Like... if I stay here, I'll lose myself."

Katalaya placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "You're stronger than you know, egbon. Don't let them make you doubt yourself. Your path is yours to choose."

"But what if they force me to stay?" Liam asked, finally allowing his deepest fear to emerge. His eyes were full of desperation and vulnerability the likes she'd never witnessed before in him.

"Then we fight," she announced firmly. "You're not alone in this. I won't let them trap you here like they tried to do to me."

As they continued their walk, neither noticed a figure watching from the gloom of a nearby alley. Her eyes followed their movements, a mixture of curiosity and calculation in her gaze.

Liam felt a weight lift from his shoulders as they made their way inside the hotel. Arriving on their floor, Liam figured he could smile again if only to convince himself of all they'd discussed. "Thanks, Aunt Kat. For everything."

The woman smiled, drawing him into a swift hug. "Stay strong, egbon. Never lose hope, understand? We'll get through this together."

As they disappeared to their room, the shadow of the figure melted back into the void, a plot of intrigue and amusement forming in her mind.

The next day, Liam woke up with a good stretch. Andre, Beck, and Robbie were fast asleep when he looked around the room. He turned to the clock, realizing that the sun hadn't risen yet. He managed to shower, get dressed, and sneak out of the hotel room without waking them up.

It was early morning so the air was pretty cool for the time being, a fact he noted with a solid grin adorning his lips. It didn't take long for him to find himself back on Bourbon Street where contrary to the night scene, it was relatively peaceful. Several people in the general area mirrored the previous night's scene, giving him access to a lot of the many shops that were otherwise unavailable to him due to the time. Each step he took brought with it many opportunities for him to explore and contemplate both his external surroundings and his inner thoughts.

One such thought centered around the encounter with his sister.

His mind swirled with her warning, reminding him to keep his guard up. He didn't take threats, or promises, lightly. He would do whatever was necessary to protect his friends and family if he needed to.

What are you plotting? he pondered.

"Something on your mind?"

Everything in Liam wanted to erupt in a scream from the second voice, but he bit back. Spinning on his heels, he found himself staring face to face... to face with a familiar pair. He would've conjured an excuse, Jade's pointed look shut this down immediately. Tori flanked the goth, her concern melting any remaining resistance he had left.

"Hey! What are you two doing up so early?"

"We could ask you the same thing..." Jade raised a suspicious brow. "I was off to get some coffee when I noticed you sneaking out. Sadly, Vega decided to follow me and you know how strays can be..."

Tori shot her rival a glare. "We were concerned about things. Your aunt said you came back late so I was planning on checking up on you when Jade was acting suspicious. The real question remains: Are you okay?"

Liam couldn't shake the warm sensation that settled in his stomach. While he was hoping to get some time to himself, he couldn't deny the joy he felt around their presence. While his emotions for both girls were a matter of conflict, both girls held a special place of comfort and safety.

"I was just out for some air..." he confessed. "...Got a lot on my mind."

"Then, it looks like we came right on time."

Liam looked at Jade with a cautious frown before the girls took an arm, leading him down the street. Despite his protests and questions, there was no escaping their grasp as the dawn arrived to join the trio. With promises of solace, gone was the daunting night, giving way to a fresh dawn.

The vibrant streets of New Orleans thrummed with energy as Liam, Jade, and Tori navigated through a bustling tourist area filled with colorful storefronts and the lively sounds of street musicians. The aroma of freshly beignets wafted through the air, mingling with the rich scent of Cajun spices. As they strolled, Liam's attention was momentarily captivated by a quaint antique shop nestled between a lively café and a bustling market. The shop's window displayed an array of vintage trinkets and artifacts that seemed to whisper stories of the past.

Caught up in nostalgia and the sights of his former home, Liam fell a few steps behind his friends. He could hear the laughter and chatter of the crowd around him, but his focus remained on the treasures behind the glass. Noticing his distraction but feeling his joy, Tori opted to stay quiet, not wanting to interrupt the moment. She exchanged a glance with Jade, who smiled knowingly as they both allowed Liam his brief escape into memories, the charm of New Orleans wrapping them all in its embrace.

Jade seized the opportunity, her voice low and tense. "We need to talk."

Tori glanced back at her crush before responding. "About Liam? We're here to support him, right?"

"Of course," Jade nodded with a hint of defensiveness in her tone. "But let's not pretend that's all this is about."

Tori's steps faltered slightly. "I don't know what you mean."

Jade scoffed. "Please. I've seen how you look at him since you two got back from Yerba. But need I remind you what happened the last time you two were alone together? He got captured and tortured because of you."

Tori flinched at the indictment, guilt flashing across her face. "That's not fair, Jade. That was an accident! I never meant for that to happen."

"Intentions don't change outcomes," the goth retorted. "I'd reconsider whatever you're planning for him, Vega."

Tori's eyes narrowed. "And what about you? Last I checked, you have a boyfriend. Or have you conveniently forgotten about him?"

It was Jade's turn to look awkward. "That's... complicated."

"Seems pretty simple to me," Tori pressed. "You can't have it both ways, Jade."

As they argued, neither noticed the shimmering, barely visible figure trailing behind them, listening intently to every word.

Jade's voice lowered further. "Look, the point is, Liam needs us focused on helping him deal with his family, not... whatever this is."

"You're right. His safety is what matters most right now." Tori nodded reluctantly.

"Exactly," Jade agreed, a touch of relief in her voice.

As Liam rejoined them, both girls plastered on smiles, their tension hidden behind a veneer of normalcy.

"Find anything interesting?" Tori asked; her voice over upbeat.

Liam shook his head, oblivious to the undercurrents. "Nah, just window shopping. While I hate to admit it, I'm glad you convinced me to show you around. I forgot in all the mess, there's a lot about this place that I missed. Shall we continue the tour?"

As they moved on, the phantom lingered, its invisible eyes narrowing with intrigue and jealousy before disappearing into the crowd. The information gathered would soon find its way back to its master, adding another layer to the complex web of emotions and allegiances surrounding the boy. If there were any weaknesses to be found, they would exploit them. If there were a hidden force revealed, it would be handled.

The soft amber glow of the hotel bar's lighting cast long shadows across the polished mahogany surfaces. Despite the late hour, a gentle murmur of conversation and the occasional clink of glasses provided a soothing backdrop. In a secluded corner booth, Katalaya and Lilith sat opposite each other, their drinks barely touched.

Katalaya's fingers traced the rim of her glass, her eyes distant. "I can't help but worry about him, she spoke, breaking the comfortable silence that had settled between them. "This whole situation... it brings up a lot of old wounds for both of us."

Lilith leaned forward, her brow furrowing with concern. "I can only imagine. Family dynamics can be so complicated, especially when you're seen as the odd ones out."

A wry smile tugged at Katalaya's lips. "That's putting it mildly. Liam and I, we were always the black sheep. Too rebellious, too different, too... everything, according to my sister," She took a small sip of her drink, the bitter taste matching her tone. "It's like they never saw who we truly were, you know? Just the ways we didn't fit into their perfect picture."

Lilith nodded, her eyes filled with understanding. "I know that feeling all too well. Being shunned by those who are supposed to love you unconditionally... it leaves scars that don't easily heal."

Katalaya looked up, curiosity piqued. "You've been through something similar?"

"Oh yes," Lilith mused, a sad smile playing on her lips, "My family... they had very specific ideas about who I should be, how I should live my life. When I chose a different path, one that aligned with who I truly am, they couldn't accept it. They wouldn't accept me."

"I'm so sorry," Katalaya reached out instinctively to place her hand on Lilith's arm. "I know it was painful to endure."

Lilith covered the woman's hand with her own, the touch lingering. "It was. Still is, sometimes. But it also taught me the value of chosen family, of surrounding yourself with people who love you for who you are, not who they want you to be."

Their eyes met, a spark of mutual understanding passing between them. Katalaya felt a warmth bloom in her chest, one that had nothing to do with the alcohol.

"That's what worries me about Liam," she uttered softly. "He's always felt so alone, even as a child. Though I went into exile, I would sometimes sneak back home and find him being forced to train like a dog. Aside from other training partners, he was usually isolated. His only friend was your daughter, Jade. This experience, it's not just about him overcoming fear. It's about realizing his worthiness of love and acceptance."

Lilith nodded and squeezed Katalaya's hand gently. "And what about you?" she whispered, her voice low and caring. "I doubt this experience is only something for Liam to overcome. It's a healing process for you too."

Katalaya blinked, embarrassed. "I... I hadn't thought about it that way."

"Maybe it's time you did," Lilith said, her thumb tracing small circles on the back of her hand. "You've been focused on protecting Liam, on being strong for him. But you deserve healing too, Kat."

A lump formed in Katalaya's throat, and she swallowed hard against the sudden rush of emotion. "I don't know if I know how," she begrudgingly admitted.

Lilith's smile was warm and encouraging. "That's okay. It's a journey, one you don't have to take alone. You have Liam, and..." she paused, her gaze softening. "you have me, if you'd like."

The air between them seemed to crackle with unspoken possibility. Katalaya found herself leaning in slightly, drawn by the warmth and understanding in Lilith's eyes.

After a moment, Lilith chuckled gently, breaking the tension. "Speaking of journeys, what do you make of this little... love triangle brewing between your nephew, my daughter, and their friend?"

Katalaya laughed, grateful for the shift to lighter territory. "Oh, it's quite the spectacle, isn't it? Poor egbon, he's so out of his depth and he doesn't even realize it."

"He does seem a bit overwhelmed," Lilith agreed, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "Though I must admire the girl's determination. They certainly know what they want."

"That they do," Katalaya took another sip, shaking her head fondly. "I just hope he figures out what he wants before things get too complicated. When he and Tori escaped Yerba, I was surprised at how deeply their bond was. After meeting Jade, I was impressed with the fire she possesses in her soul."

Lilith raised an eyebrow. "And what about you? What do you want, Katalaya?"

The question hung in the air between them loaded with meaning. She found herself lost in Lilith's gaze, her heart racing "I... I'm not sure," she said softly. "But I think I'm starting to figure it out."

Lilith's smile was radiant. "Well, she giggled, her voice low and intimate, "I look forward to being here while you do."

Sitting there, their hands still entwined, the gentle hum of the hotel bar faded into the distance. At that moment, it was just the two of them, bound by shared experiences and the potential of something new blossoming between them.

The restaurant's grandeur seemed to fade into insignificance as tension filled the air within the lavish scenery of the Cajun venue. Liam stood rigid, his haw clenched, with Tori and Jade flanking him on either side. Across from them, like opposing forces on a chess board, stood Celeste and Lucille, their faces masks of cold disdain. Between them was a young man about Liam's age. Adewale, a young African-American teen whose eyes burned with barely contained contempt as they fixed on Liam.

"Traitor..." Adewale sneered.

"Lapdog." Liam spat.

Celeste, her silver-streaked hair pulled back into a tight braided bun, broke the simmering hatred between the boys. "Well, well. The prodigal son sees fit to answer my summons. The ancestors have blessed me this day..." she spoke, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

Liam's fists clenched at his sides. "Mother," he cut his glare to her, her parental title sounding more like a challenge than a greeting.

Lucille's laugh was sharp and humorless. "Oh, don't strain yourself with the familial niceties, dear brother. We all know you'd rather be anywhere but here."

"Gee, what gave it away?" he shot back, his tone low and barely controlled.

Adewale stepped forward, his young face twisted with devout rage. "You abandoned them," he spat. "Left your family's will for you. For what? These..." his eyes raked over Tori and Jade with a twisted grin, "distractions?"

Tori placed a gentle hand on Liam's arm, feeling the tension thrumming through him. "Liam," she murmured, a hushed appeal for calm.

But it was Jade who spoke, her voice cutting through the air like a whip. "How dare you," she snarled, stepping between the boys. "You know nothing about Liam, about what he's been put through; What your family put him through!"

Lucille's eyebrows shot up, a mocking smile playing on her lips. "My, my. Quite the little... firecracker you've found, brother. Tell me, does she always fight your battles for you?"

"That's enough," Liam growled, but Celeste raised a hand, silencing them all.

"We're not here to squabble like toddlers," she announced, her voice cold and authoritative. "Liam, our agreement will take place in two day's time. I trust you remember the terms?"

Liam's face paled, a flicker of fear passing through his eyes before being replaced by steely resolve. "I remember."

Celeste nodded, satisfaction showing behind her cruel eyes. "Good. The outcome will be final, child. One way or another, you will be back in the fold where you belong."

With that, she stood from her seat, turning on her heel, Lucille and Adewale falling in step behind her. As they walked away, Adewale threw one last venomous glare over his shoulder at him.

The trio stood in stunned silence for a moment, the weight of what transpired settling over them like a heavy blanket. Tori was the first to break, her usual confidence crumbling as she turned to Liam with wide, frightened eyes.

"Liam," she whispered, her voice trembling, "this can't happen! That was just a joke, right?"

Jade, in contrast, was vibrating with justified fury, angry tears spilling down her cheeks. "No," she muttered, her voice a mix of determination and desperation. If anyone was petrified at the thought of losing Liam again, it was her. "No, we won't let them take you. We just got you back. I can't... We can't lose you again."

Liam looked between them, his heart breaking at the fear in Tori's eyes and the raw pain in Jade's. He pulled them both close, one arm around each of them.

"I'm so sorry," he murmured, his words rough with emotion. "I never wanted to drag either of you into this. My family, they're... Dangerous."

"We don't care," Jade spoke fiercely, even as she trembled in his embrace. "We're here for you, no matter what."

Tori nodded, swallowing hard as she found her voice. "We'll face this together. Whatever it is."

Liam shut his eyes tightly, willing himself to find solace in the warm presence of those around him. Even as a pang of gnawing guilt twisted in his gut, he felt their unwavering support grounding him. He was acutely aware of the daunting path ahead, a journey laden with shadows and uncertainties, one that he would have to traverse to protect them and finally liberate himself from the shackles of his past. Tori, with her perceptive nature, had caught a fleeting glimpse of the darker impulses lurking within him, and that knowledge weighed heavily on his heart. It only deepened his sense of unease. This side of him had been carefully locked away, buried deep beneath layers of resolve and determination. But now, as he contemplated the trials to come, he felt that precarious barrier beginning to crack, threatening to expose the darkness he had fought so hard to contain.

"Thank you," he whispers, pressing a kiss to each of their foreheads. "Both of you. I promise I'll do whatever it takes to make sure we all come back together."

As they stood in the dim light, their bodies trembling slightly as they clung to one another amid the chaotic aftermath of the confrontation, Liam felt a profound stillness settle over him. The adrenaline that had surged through him moments ago began to wane, replaced by a chilling resolve. He had fought valiantly against the shadows that haunted his past, but now he could feel the dark tendrils reaching out, beckoning him with an irresistible allure.

This time, he wouldn't resist; instead, he would embrace it. Liam's thoughts drifted to Tori, her bright spirit a stark contrast to the turmoil swirling within him. He thought of Jade, whose unwavering courage had inspired him time and again. And, most importantly, he contemplated his own yearning for freedom, a liberation he had sought for far too long.

He steeled himself, summoning every ounce of strength he possessed. It was time to transform into the very thing his family had always envisioned for him—a powerful force, unyielding and formidable. With a determined glint in his eyes, he accepted the dark path ahead. No longer would he shy away from his destiny; he would become what he was meant to be, not just for himself, but for the ones he loved.

The game was set, and in two days, Liam would make his move. Whatever the cost.