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captainseaweedbrains · 3 years

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The Dance of the Color Guard, Op. 64 Ch. 4

Katniss and Peeta used to be best friends when they were kids, but now in high school, they're barely on speaking terms. It isn't until they are forced together as the titular star-crossed lovers for their marching band's field show that they will have to face their past mistakes and try to get along if they ever hope of defeating the notorious Capitol Height's Imperial Marching Crusaders in competition.

It's all about winning and if that means pretending to be in love with Peeta Mellark, so be it.

A/N: Thank you to @rosegardeninwinter for editing and helping push me to finish! You are the best and any mistakes found are mine. :)

Start at the beginning on Ao3: X

Ch. 4 Ao3: X

June

“Peeta really isn’t that bad,” Madge said for what felt like the millionth time. Katniss rolled her eyes and flipped the page of her magazine. Ever since learning that Peeta was going to be the Romeo to Katniss’ Juliet, Madge had been defending him every chance she got. “He’s really not. And he’s so smart, Katniss. Picks up on things real quickly. So all this moping around you’ve been doing all week is stupid.”

Katniss frowned and shoved her sunglasses further up her nose, preferring the screams of the children running around them on the pool deck to Madge defending Peeta Mellark to her once again. Was she being overly dramatic about this? Maybe. Was Madge right that Peeta wasn’t as bad as she made him out to be? Perhaps. But it still sucked and she couldn’t stop complaining about it.

“I know you’re Team Peeta,” she sighed, “but would it kill you to see things from my perspective just this once? Isn’t that what girl friends are supposed to do? Side with their other girl friends?”

“Maybe if you were right about him being a bad person, I would,” Madge sniffed, picking up her own gossip magazine to flip through. “But as of right now, you’ve provided me no evidence in support of your claim.” It was times like these Katniss wished her friend wasn’t the daughter of a prestigious lawyer.

“Gale sides with me,” she argued, pointing at her tall friend standing in line between two twelve-year-old kids for their slushies. “Doesn’t that count for anything on my behalf?”

“Gale’s an idiot.”

“An idiot you’re dating.” Madge stuck her tongue out at that, unable to refute her long-standing relationship with Gale and Katniss smiled. Of all the relationships she’d seen throughout the years—and band romances had provided plenty of weird, random romances, the weirdest being Johanna Mason and Melinda “Cashmere” Hewitt—Madge and Gale’s was the only one she saw that made no sense on paper yet made complete sense in person. The spoiled rich girl with a heart of gold and the rough-around-the-edges boy from the bad part of town? She never used to buy it in the movies, thinking the concept too ridiculous, but Madge and Gale proved her wrong time and time again.

Even when they had broken up sophomore year, claiming they were just too different, Katniss was still proven wrong because they couldn’t shut up about each other—griping about how she just didn’t understand and he always has to be right and I can’t believe I lost my virginity to that, a fact Katniss could have gone her whole life not knowing. When they got back together, it was hard to say who was more thrilled about it: the happy couple or Katniss.

“Come on, Madge,” she sighed, flopping back in her lounge seat. “Why must you always be the diplomatic one?”

“Someone has to be between your impulsiveness and Gale’s anarchy attitude.

“Did someone say anarchy?” the anarchist himself joked, handing Madge her lime-flavored slushie with a kiss on the lips for a tip. He handed Katniss her watermelon one and jokingly asked where his tip was. Katniss threw her three dollars at him with a “Keep the change” rebuttal. Gale laughed and pocketed the cash, lifting Madge’s legs up and over onto his lap so he could sit.

“So what did I miss?”

Madge snorted and offered her boyfriend a sip of her slushie. “Here’s a hint: it’s Katniss’ favorite subject.”

Gale rolled his eyes and accepted the drink. “Mellark again?” He took a large sip and winced at the sudden brain freeze, handing the large cup back. “God, I’m so sick of hearing about that guy. Katniss, get over it and move on already.” Even Gale was getting sick of her talking about it? Somehow, that hit lower on the pathetic scale. Gale was her complaining companion. Her bitch buddy. The person she reserved all her annoyances for because she knew he’d have his own trivial things to complain about. Hell, their friendship was founded upon complaining, starting in 8th Grade Science when their teacher kept giving them busy work to cope with the very public scandal of his wife sleeping with their school principal. They complained about everything with each other.

And now even Gale had said enough.

Well this sucked.

“Fine,” she said, not really feeling fine about it. “I won’t talk about it anymore.” Her friends looked doubtful. “I mean it! No more talk of Peeta Mellark and how my whole summer is practically ruined because I have to have extra practices to teach him how to dance on the field. And I’m not going to talk about how that cuts into my shifts at Aunt LuLu’s store, which means my spending money is going to be next to nothing by the time school starts. So if you two ever want to do anything more fun than hanging around the school parking lot, I guess you’re shit out of luck.”

Gale smiled sweetly at Madge. “I’m so glad she’s not talking about it anymore.” Katniss scowled and gave them the middle finger, causing them both to laugh.

“I think you both are very biased over this whole thing,” Katniss said after a while. Gale and Madge didn’t say anything, too focused on tanning and summer reading homework. That didn’t seem to stop Katniss from continuing. “You’re both too friendly with him because of classes and band. He’s gotten to you.”

“One of us is biased,” Gale said, “and it’s not us. It’s you. You’ve hated him for as long as I’ve known you.”

“With good reason!” she huffed, crossing her arms. They didn’t ask her to elaborate on that, already making it clear they were done talking about Peeta Mellark and all the annoyances he brought to her life, and she hated the fact that she did want to keep talking about him. About marching band. About the whole stupid situation. But she kept her promise and kept her mouth shut.

No one said anything further until Madge declared herself starving and Gale suggested they stuff their faces with greasy burgers and fries at Sae’s.

**********

Sae’s Diner was packed with its usual lunch crowd—men and women from the factories nearby on lunch, sitting at the worn pastel-colored counter; a couple of kids they recognized from school goofing off in the corner booth, shooting straw wrappers off the straws; and a book club filled with women in their fifties discussing some brick of a book over coffee and Sae’s famous blueberry and cream pie sitting in the center of the small diner. The old woman herself smiled warmly at them when they’d walked in, asking if they were wanting the usual.

“You’re the best, Sae,” Gale thanked as they waved and headed to their booth next to the front door.

As they waited for their cheeseburgers and chocolate milkshakes, Gale chatted about some war movie he and his brothers saw that sounded god awful boring, no matter how much he tried re-explaining the plot to them. Madge and Katniss rolled their eyes and told him if he wanted to see the movie again so badly, to go see it by himself. “I’m not going to the movies by myself like some weirdo,” he scoffed, taking his hands off the table as the waitress deposited their plates of food and drinks.

“Why not?” Katniss asked, picking up a french fry to dip into her milkshake. “I do it all the time.”

“Because you hate people.”

“So do you.” He shrugged, not having much to argue there, and picked up his burger.

“So what time is Trinket summoning you tomorrow?” Gale asked, changing the subject completely, and tearing into his burger. Grease dripped down his hands and Madge tossed a pile of napkins at him. He accepted with a smile and slid his side of pickles over to her, something he purposely ordered more of because he knew how much she liked them. Madge happily bit into one, her eyes gazing at him with such adoration, Katniss rolled her eyes. Their coupling was too much for her sometimes.

“I thought you didn’t want me talking about marching band,” she said innocently enough, taking a bite into her own burger.

“I didn’t want you talking about Mellark,” he said pointedly, wagging a fry at her. “Marching band is different. Less annoying and less boy drama. So what time does Miss Cream Puff have you coming in?”

It irritated her that Gale simplified her great dislike for Peeta Mellark as mere boy drama because it was far more complicated than that, but there was no point trying to explain it to Gale. He understood a lot about her, but when it came to Peeta… Well, it was best to let him believe whatever he wanted. “Eight a.m. sharp,” she said sourly, dipping another french fry into her milkshake.

Gale winced. “That sucks. Why so early?”

“Peeta couldn’t get out of working his afternoon shifts and it was either that or not have a single weekend off until November.” She was still bitter about the change in schedule. Originally Miss Trinket wanted them twice a week outside of color guard’s normal rehearsal times, but with Peeta’s work schedule not being as flexible as Katniss’, she’d decided to make it morning rehearsals and make those shorter, which forced them to add another day of rehearsal to make up for the cut time. Now instead of having rehearsal four times a week, Katniss had five with her weekends full of shifts at Aunt LuLu’s shop for the extra cash she desperately needed. This summer was going to blow.

“I still think you should’ve been picked for Juliet,” Katniss told Madge teasingly. “You and Gale, maybe?” she cooed. “The true star-crossed lovers of Athens Ridge.”

Gale scowled. “I’d rather drop dead than have to deal with Trinket when she’s in choreographer mode. She’s a total tyrant.”

“She’s not so bad once you get used to her.”

“Tell me what you think after dealing with her for a whole season, oh captain, my captain.”

Point taken.

Much like at the pool, they talked for a bit about things going on in their lives—Madge taking some online French class because her grades last semester weren’t great; Gale’s successful find for parts with Thom in the junkyard. Katniss didn’t say much as she munched on her burger and fries, afraid Madge would lecture her again on Peeta Mellark and her inability to let things go with him. That and she promised she was done talking about him. But outside of marching band and him, not much was going on in her life. She felt a bit pathetic about that.

Conversation picked up when Sae came over, asking how things were doing. The three smiled at the old woman, happy to fill her in on all the small details of their lives. Sae was the unofficial grandmother of the Seam. Always there to show her support for her kiddos. Her small diner was covered with pictures of sports teams she’s sponsored over the years, pictures of her and kids dressed in dance gear, holding certificates.

“Did you hear the news about Katniss, Sae?” Madge asked when the topic of marching band came up. Sae was always interested in that, loving watching her talented kids play as they wove around the field. “She’s going to be our Juliet this year! Isn’t that exciting?”

Sae’s grey eyes warmed, turning to Katniss. “Is that so? Captain and the lead part?” She shook her head in astonishment, her salt and peppered colored hair coming loose from her hair tie. “You were always so talented with those flags. I’m not surprised. Who’s your Romeo?”

“Peeta Mellark.” The name felt lodged in her throat, but thankfully, it squeezed out without too much of a squeak in her voice.

Sae didn’t know all the kids on the west side, but she definitely knew Peeta. He would often tag along with her and her dad on their trips to the woods, stopping at the diner after for hot chocolate and pie. In fact, his picture was one of the first ones you saw coming in—Sae and six-year-old Peeta smiling at the camera, her arm around him as he proudly held up his lost baby tooth. Her dad had taken the picture, she remembered, and if the camera’s lens had shifted a little more to the right, it would have also captured five-year-old Katniss pouting on the side, upset that he kept losing his baby teeth when she’d lost none. It was a picture her gaze avoided whenever they visited Sae’s, unable to stomach the sight of an old friend turned asshole, the memory of her dad’s laughter as he took the photo.

“Oh, Peeta,” Sae chuckled, the familiar twinkle she always got in her eyes when he was around. The old woman doted on him when they were kids and he ate up her attention like there was no tomorrow. “How is that boy? Staying out of mischief, I hope?”

Gale and Madge looked to her with knowing smiles, wondering what she would say. Katniss cleared her throat and looked down at her half-eaten plate for a moment. “Fine, I guess. We don’t hang out anymore. You know that, Sae.”

She did know that, but it never stopped her from asking whenever he came up. “Aye, girl, I do. I suppose you aren’t happy with Effie Trinket’s choice, then?”

Gale snorted. “Happy? More like obsessively pissed. She hasn’t shut up about it since May.” She glared at her friend and he shrugged, popping a fry in his mouth. “What? You haven’t.”

Sae gave one of her warm, crooked teeth smiles. “Maybe this is the push you kiddos need to kiss and make up.” Katniss’ cheeks warmed at the mention of kisses, remembering Leevy’s comment how they were so going to have sex by the end of the year. She still hadn’t fully forgiven her friend for that suggestion.

“I’m afraid that’s impossible, Sae,” she said, her voice still a little strained. “We’re just too different.”

“Ah, well. I suppose we grow in different directions sometimes,” the woman sighed with a shake of her head. A woman from the book club table called for her and Sae gave them a parting wave and smile. “Tell Peeta ol’ Sae misses her boy and that he needs to come in more. I haven’t seen him in ages.”

Katniss pointedly avoided Gale and Madge’s amused smirks, focusing on the burger in front of her. “I’ll be sure to pass the message along,” she muttered, taking a big bite of her food to avoid continuing this conversation. She loved Sae. Thought of her like a grandmother. But there was no way in hell was she telling Peeta that. No way. Then he’d think she was gushing about him to anyone who would listen, thrilled to be his Juliet, a role many girls at school would kill for (Probably. Maybe. She thinks.), and then his stupid ego would just get bigger and he’d be even more obnoxious to deal with. No, best not to mention anything and lie next time she saw Sae.

A small part felt guilty at that, though, because Sae was like a grandma who wanted the best for her, and Peeta too, she guessed, but again, Sae didn’t know what happened between them. And Katniss wasn’t going to fill her in on their broken history six years too late.

Her phone next to her plate vibrated, signifying a text message just came in. Wiping her greasy hands, Katniss frowned, picking up her phone. Who was texting her? Everyone who’d text her was either sitting right across from her or were busy at work or camp. The little text message lit up at her touch, showing it was from an unknown number, and her frown turned into a scowl as she read it.

Hey!!!!!!!!!1!1111!!!!!!! the message read with a thousand typo-filled exclamation marks. God, who text like that? Trinket gave me ur ######## Hope thats cool. Thought Id give mine!!!!!!!111111 🤗 Ill see u Mon dearest Juliet ❤️❤️❤️❤️!!!!!!!!!!!!111!😘😘😘😘!!!111!!!!!!

For the briefest of seconds, Katniss swore her vision blacked out. One moment she was staring at her phone. The next, darkness. Like her brain couldn’t process the simple text on her phone and chose to shut down instead. When her vision cleared, the message was still there, glaring brightly at her with those thousand exclamation/number marks.

Peeta Mellark texted her. He had her number.

Her stomach churned and now she feared that what her mother always warned about Sae’s greasy food would come true now and she’d throw it all up.

Peeta Mellark texted her. It was truly official. He had her number and she had his and they were partners now. If she had any doubts about this whole thing before—as if she had dreamt the last four weeks of her life—they were wiped clean now. Replaced with this typo-filled text message from the very boy who hurt her.

“You okay?” Madge asked.

Katniss nodded and clicked out of the message, tossing the phone into her bag. She’d deal with it later.

#Everlark #Everlark Fanfiction #The Hunger Games #The Hunger Games fanfiction #Everlark fanfic #The hunger Games fanfic #THG #It's been a while and I'm sorry #Life amirite?#My writing #The Dance of the Color Guard #The Dance of the Color Guard Op. 64

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surveys-at-your-service · 3 years

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Survey #400

“it’s an age-old story: the first will be last, and the last will be kings / the small will be great, and the great will be weak”

Who was the last person you sincerely thanked? My mom; I thank her every time she cooks for me/us, and I really do mean it. What’s the longest you’ve ever stayed as a guest at someone’s house? Somewhere around a month. What was the last thing to really surprise you? My brother has a fiancee and is having another son! :') Have you ever found out that you have been sleep walking? No. Have you ever tried making something from one of those short cooking videos? How did it turn out? No. Have you ever written a review for a product you bought online? No. What was the last thing you had the urge to do? Idk about anything notable. Is there anyone you feel that takes you for granted? No. What is the last thing you had a craving for? A donut. Do you ever read the comments on social media posts? Sometimes. What was the last thing you felt like you wasted money on? It's so rare that I buy things with my own cash that I really don't know. What was the last thing you wanted to buy, but couldn’t afford? Venus' terrarium on my own. Mom has to help me with buying it. What is a recipe you’d like to try to make for yourself? I don’t cook, so. What goes through your mind when you look back at old photographs of yourself? More than anything, I get sad over how much weight I've gained. I was so healthy once upon a time. It also just makes me miss my childhood. What was the subject matter of the last email you sent? I believe it was about setting up an appointment with my therapist. How do you get your news? Facebook articles, really. What do you think about lizards? I love them! I was that kid that always tried to catch them when I saw 'em. Now I just observe because I don't want to terrify them by trying to pick them up. Have you ever done consumer testing (testing products before they come out on the market)? If not, would you ever want to? No, but sure, I'd do it. Have you ever received anesthesia or morphine? Both. The time I received morphine, it did jack-all for me. If you had to choose which video game to be in, which would it be? Hmmm... I would say Azeroth from World of Warcraft, but too much shit goes down, ha ha. Perhaps the top of the temple in Shadow of the Colossus? So long as I could have someone I love with me, I'd be in Heaven. Although... I doubt there's WiFi there, so I might drop that answer, lmfao. I really don't know. Between the two, would you rather live in a place where it’s only night or where it’s only day? Day. I need the natural light of day sometimes, and if I wanted to sleep, I could just find shade. If you had to be an actor/actress in a movie, what genre of the movie would you be best at? Fantasy. Out of fire, earth, water, wind, light, and dark, which element appeals the most to you? Dark. What’s one thing that you wish was real? Friendly dragons, haha. Is there anything (show, comedian, etc.) that you constantly quote or make references to? No. What’s your favorite Disney Channel movie? I have absolutely no idea. I don't even remember almost any of them. What’s your favorite holiday? Christmas. Do you ever have to do yard work? No. Do you have any live versions of songs in your music software? Yes. Did/do you listen to Britney Spears songs? Yeah, sometimes. I genuinely don't mind her. Do you still make Christmas lists? Yeah, because I'm asked to. Do you watch the show Dexter? Never seen it. Which musical instrument do you think sounds the prettiest? I'm torn between the violin, harp, and piano. Is your mom or dad the older parent? Mom, by a year. Do you and your parents like any of the same bands/singers? A lot, actually. Is there any food in your bedroom? What? I have these tictacs I keep in my purse in case of a dry mouth. Medication makes me have that severely, and my psychiatrist recommended me to always have a hard candy available to suck on since it forces salivation. Do you know anyone who has road rage? Who? My younger sister, badly. How far away do your grandparents live from you? They're all dead, but they lived in far away states. Do you know anyone who wants to be the president one day? No. What kinds of chips are in the cupboards? None. It's a bad idea to keep chips in this house, haha. Do you have your mom's or dad's hair? Well, I was born with dirty blonde hair like my dad, but my hair is thick and more similar in color now to my mom's before the cancer completely drained the color. If you were going out with your celebrity crush, what would you wear? OH MY GOD LA;KSDJFAKLWJE I DON'T KNOW I LOOK AWFUL IN EVERYTHING. Have you ever cried when a teacher retired? Teared up, yes, multiple times. Do you swear and yell while playing video games? I might swear under my breath, but that's the extent of it. If you were adopted, would you want to know? At this point in my life, I don't really know. I kinda find myself leaning towards no. Has a best friend ever ditched you for a girlfriend/boyfriend? Pretty much. Do your pets chase after bugs? Roman sure does. When’s the last time you were so excited you couldn’t sleep? Why? I want to say that was the night before I was getting my tattoo redone. Do you own any flip-flops? Yeah, considering they're like... all I wear, ever. Did you ever really believe that the stork brought babies? I don't believe so, no. Have you ever had a dream about sleeping with a celebrity? (You don’t have to give details.) It was the only lucid dream I've ever had and I'm not complaining about it lmao. Have you ever had a dream that upset you or made you cry? Oh I'm sure. Has anyone ever told you that they needed you? Do you think they meant it? Not to my recollection, no, and I don't believe you should ever adopt that mentality and say that to someone. Do you own a laser? No. Is there anything you like to put on a sandwich, that some might find odd? Nah. I do enjoy a layer of potato chips on some sandwiches, like ham and cheese, but I know that's like an actual thing some people just like. What colour are the shoes you wear most often? They're black flip-flops. When was the last time you were required to put on a mask? In the morning when I go to the TMS office. And what colour was the last mask you wore? It's one of those normal blue and white medical ones. The last time you were in a queue, what were you waiting for? To see the woman who would give me my APAP mask. Have you had your Covid vaccine yet? Which one, if you have? Yes, Moderna. If you've had your vaccine, did you experience any side effects? None for the first shot, but my second shot bruised badly and I felt seriously shitty the following day. I was perfectly fine afterwards, though. Can any of your friends sing well? Which one has the nicest singing voice? Sara has an AMAAAAAAAAAAAZING voice. When was the last time you wore make-up, if ever? What shades/colours? I don't even remember, but I'm sure it would've been black. What is something that seems popular, but doesn't interest you personally? Fashion, various TV shows, etc... Are you clumsy or graceful? I am STUPID clumsy. Like it's just ridiculous. Do you like gloves? I like fingerless gloves. Does your sibling(s) have braces? My older sister did as a kid. Do you ever say "OMG" in person? No; it's a random pet peeve of mine, "Internet talk" irl. What was the last thing your parents got mad at you for? Dad, no idea. Mom, uhhhh. Not "mad," but "annoyed" probably better fits how she felt about me leaving the heating pad I use for my cramps on the floor. Do your pets have favorites? I'm definitely Roman's favorite seeing as he is my literal shadow, and I'd assume Venus trusts me more than anyone else, but realistically, she's in contact with almost no one else, so. Who was your first boyfriend/girlfriend? Why did you break up? The first guy to have the title of "boyfriend" was Aaron, and I broke up with him 'cuz I just wasn't as romantically into him as I thought I might be. It was puppy-dog love, and I feel I knew that. My first *real* boyfriend was Jason, who broke up with me because my mental illnesses began to affect his wellbeing. Which I now accept is fine, but he seriously coulda gone about things differently... When was the last time you got a new bed? Is your bed comfy? Late into my teenage years; idk the exact age and don't feel like doing the math. Teddy kept peeing on the bed to where it was just unrecoverable and needed to be thrown away. My current bed is comfy enough. What kind of games did you play on the playground when you were younger? My absolute favorite was digging tunnels in the sandbox, pretending to be a meerkat. The only trend I ever created, haha, seeing as my classmates got into it with me, allowing us to make huge tunnel systems. It was really cool. I also liked playing 4 Square (which I now don't even remember the details of) on the basketball court. Do you remember the first time you ever drove a car? Who were you with? Yeah, my driver's ed instructor and the guy who was on the same route as me. What’s your favorite thing to do when drunk? Would you do this sober? N/A Are you a fan of dogs? Do you have any as pets? I'm picky with dogs. I like interacting with any dog, but I don't plan on ever owning another. I don't like how hyper they can be, and I prefer more independent pets, like cats. Basically, I'll be hyped to meet a random dog on the street and give it some loving, but I don't want to take it home to be my own. Are you an elitist (even a little bit) when it comes to anything? What? No. I cannot stand elitists. Is just being fond of something enough, or does it take more than that to be a ‘real fan’? And I hate gatekeeping in fandoms even more. There are varying intensities of "being a fan," but regardless, if you like something, congratulations, you're a valid, "real" fan. What type of fabric is most comfortable for clothing? I don't pay attention to this, honestly. If you wear one – bras with or without a wire? I'll wear either, but without is way more comfortable. If you wear one – are you able to find cute bras in your size? God no. What length do you like your shorts to be? I don’t wear shorts. What was the last disappointing movie you saw? Warcraft, but not because it was bad. I've talked before how in the theater, the orcs' voices were just so fucking baritone that I couldn't understand almost ANYTHING they said. Kinda ruined the experience for me. What was the last disappointing book you read? Don't recall. Do you ever watch compilation videos? Of what? Very rarely. If I do, they're mostly of animals being silly. Favorite Disney character who isn’t royalty? Probably Dory, but idk. There's WAY too many options to fish through.

#survey #surveys #random questions #lyrics: ''this is the kingdom'' by skillet

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windpeakofficial · 3 years

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CAMELIA WINDPEAK || INTO THE WILDWOODS

- in which camelia goes on a planned expedition to open up the secrets beyond rovar's gap.

(i wrote this at 2 last night and i am REALLY rusty im sorry lol)

| ❆ | [ 11 / 11 / 2020 || 10:30 AM || DUNDULL, JORVIK ] | ❆ |

The sun struggled to shine through the thick, frosted over window panes of Dundull Stables.

Last night had marked one of the first harsh frosts to come this season. Sure, southwestern Jorvik had pretty simple winters, especially compared to the northeastern territories, or Camelia's hometown of Beauvista. Still, however, a chill managed to creep its way through a loose board in the barn - accompanying the sounds of mucking, horses making conversation, and the looming echo of the kitchen's radio playing "Walking in a Winter Wonderland."

As Camelia adjusted the girth of her treeless saddle, she received a calm nudge in her side from Pepper. Turning to face her, she received a face full of mare stare and a snort - causing her to giggle. "Don't you ever like anything on your back?" She chuckled, slipping a light brown bosal over Pepper's ears and mounting.

Before the team knew it, they were already on the way to Mistfall's Ranger camp.

Cam knew that it would only be fair if she brought this specific mount out for the trip into the Wildwoods. Being a retired Jorvik Ranger horse from right here in Dundull, she knew that Pepper would not only appreciate the gesture, but also guide her from years of taking the trails. She had received an invite from Alonso about a month ago, asking if she wanted to come and help out. Happy to oblige, and possibly find a few secrets, she agreed and booked a stall to board in.

| ❆ | [ 11 / 11 / 2020 || 11:00 AM || MISTFALL RANGER STATION, JORVIK ] | ❆ |

Coming up the hill to the station, she could already see 4-5 rangers come into view, one of them being a happy, waving Alonso. Though excited to meet everyone, she couldn't help but be apprehensive. How couldn't she be, really, considering that they were going into an area that hadn't been explored for years and she was doing it with none other than a bunch of strangers.

Waving happily, she dismounted and led her mare to the newly-lit campfire. Breathing in the scent of marshmallows, she grinned and introduced herself. Everyone seemed fairly sweet ( except for that Nova chick, no clue what her problem was ) yet something just felt... off. Rowan Allaway - but what really bugged her was the fact that she couldn't figure out why. They were just different, mysterious, confusing.. too much that could be feared, she supposed. They said that they'd "heard things about her" and that if they're true, she'd be useful... Regardless, she dropped the topic once she saw a familiar haflinger and its' rider approaching them.

Rania. That put her at ease. She smiled at her warm greeting, replied happily, and before they knew it they were off.

Cam heard everyone chatter amongst themselves and eachother until she became fairly certain that she was being ignored. She didn't know why, really, but it didn't matter. She had already zoned out - the only thing her subconscious picked up was the rambunctious stories that Rowan was telling and the occasional remark from Alonso, Rania or Yousef. She felt magic teeming stronger and stronger as they got closer to the passage.

"Camelia?" A voice called out, shaking her from her thoughts. "Can you join us for a group picture before we head in?" Rowan beams and her stomach churns uncomfortably. Her mouth twists into a smile.

"Sure, I'd be happy to."

| ❆ | [ 11 / 11 / 2020 || 11:30 AM || ROVAR'S GAP, JORVIK ] | ❆ |

Pepper nervously stepped up the hill, ears partially pinned in an uncomfortable listening position. She spooked when Astrid let out a loud gasp, stepping aside a few hoofbeats.

"Sorry everyone, she's a little on edge." Cam apologized "Astrid, is everything okay?"

"It grabbed me! It reached out and GRABBED me!" The ranger practically screamed. Cam's gut did flip-flops. There is definitely magic here. She sensed it.

The rest bickered back and forth, forcing Cam to try and focus back into reality even though her soul was trying to comprehend the magic. "Not now, Cam. Not now" she mumbled, sighing as she watched Yousef gallop away with Astrid and her steed in tow. Rania looked at her quizzically.

"What do you make of all this?" She asked softly, causing Cam to gulp.

"I- think there's a lot more to this place than what meets the eye." She blinked, urging Pepper up the mountain, still bothered by the underlying power.

As the team of two headed near the top of the hill, they fell back. This gave Cam some time to pull out her camera and sneak some photos of the beautiful landscape. Despite the fear factor, it was gorgeous nonetheless. Beauty carved out by the hand of Aideen herself and- what was that Enitan was saying up ahead?

"Enitan, what were you saying?" She trotted up to the group, slipping her camera back into her saddlebag. "Sorry, I was lost in the landscape."

This caused the man to chuckle "The deer, Camelia, it's very special. It watches over the woods." This also caused Tiera to laugh. What was up with awkward laughter today?

"It's a genetic effect called leicism, though sometimes certain environmental elements come into play - like radiation! Enitan, where do you come up with these stories?" She bickered, causing Enitan to sigh and look toward the gap that Rowan was standing in.

Woah.

Cam and Pepper were speechless. Their hearts pounded in an almost perfect sync. This was a large valley with trees that touched the skies. They went on for miles, fresh breeze flowing through with hints of magic. It was stunning. The grasses grew wild, yet kept a manageable length. This place was truly a wonder.

And then it started to pour.

| ❆ | [ 11 / 11 / 2020 || 12:30 PM || WILDER’S VERGE, JORVIK ] | ❆ |

Pepper was almost eye to eye with Dellingr, keeping it together only through the bond they shared. One thing she had to say about that horse, he wouldn't leave Rania if his life depended on it. He pranced through the mud, huffing and puffing through the lowering temperatures.

CRACK!

Pepper leapt back what could've been called a foot. She exhaled heavily, watching Shay gallop away without his rider.

Cam blinked, exhaling with the same volume of her horse. She held Pepper's reins tightly and walked carefully toward a dazed Rowan.

"Someone's gotta go after Shay before he hurts himself!" And as soon as you both made eye contact, you knew who it was going to be.

Thunder boomed as Pepper tried her best to find her footing, huffing and puffing, snorting for the horse to calm down. Camelia's eyes blurred from the bitter wind hitting her face. As they neared the steed, the girl stood out of her saddle, leaning toward Shay until she managed to catch his headstall between her fingers, pulling back and letting out a pronounced "HO! EASY!"

The bridle slipped out of her hands, forcing her to find her seat again before Shay came to a sliding stop about twenty-five feet in front of them. Without hesitation, the tattered woman dismounted and began to step toward the panicked horse, humming softly. All of a sudden it was just her, this horse, and the world. She silently thanked Rhiannon for training her in the gift of wind whispering and soul riding in the back of her mind.

She loved the way the magic felt. It coursed through her veins like life blood, and everything felt so loud. Colors were brighter, feelings were stronger, and every sense she had was awake and vibrant. Before she knew it, her hand instinctually stroked his muzzle. She turned around and walked back to the gang, Irish cob in tow.

"Thanks for bringing him back to me, Camelia. He's a real beaut, but he's still learning the ropes." Rowan smiled. Cam felt an exhausted smile bubble to the surface of her mind, tired from the power she used in front of this unknowing, motley crew, but still being careful. Maybe they weren't so bad.

Enitan mumbled to himself "I think this forest doesn't want us here. It seems.. angry." A visible chill ran down his spine, either from the low temperatures or the fact that he was just.. scared.

"Stop getting yourselves all worked up." Rowan sighs "Nature holds no grudges, it only acts on its' own behalf."

Cam performed the most overly exaggerated eyeroll ever, stifling a laugh when she heard Tiera giggle. Nobody said a word and they continued on their hack, though Cam reached over and tapped Enitan on the leg, nodding understandingly at him.

She hadn't really realized this, but the rain had stopped completely. All that she recalled was that she felt the sun beaming on her skin when she was calming Shay. Who knows what happened, really. Magical properties were a fairly large gray area in Jorvik.

| ❆ | [ 11 / 11 / 2020 || 1:00 PM || REDWOOD POINT RANGER STATION, JORVIK ] | ❆ |

Cam smiled fondly as they reached the abandoned lodge. She could tell this was a really cozy place at one point, though quite frankly, she also figured that there was a 99% chance that there were 1-3 dead people inside. Who knows, though!

Everyone was given their individual tasks, and Cam quickly volunteered to fix the paddock. She had done it several other times when working at other places, and it was quite easy as long as you had a couple nails on hand.

One fence, three fence, brown fence ... brown fence. She was done! She quickly slid her helmet back and wiped some sweat off of her brow. Hearing a twig snap and, assuming it was Pepper, she turned with a friendly greeting.

"Hey, Pepper, I'm done a-"

Oh.

It was Enitan's deer.

That had to be what it was.

It had a sleek build covered in vines and glowing blue flowers. At the base of its neck emerged a proud, bright white coat with shiny, hollow looking baby blue eyes that strikingly resembled Rania's. Was it blind? You know what, that doesn't matter right now.

Cam reached out and slid her hand down its wet nose. The creature sniffed curiously, making her giggle, and galloped off. She let out a delayed flinch and looked over to her mare, as if to confirm "Did that just happen?"

Yes, that just happened. She guessed she would just- go back to the station, then. Wordlessly, she slid onto Pepper's back and trotted back to Rowan and the cabin. As she approached them, they gave her a peculiar look.

"Is everything okay? You look like you've seen a ghost." They squinted. Cam internally argued with herself, trying to figure out if she should tell them or not - or rather, if they'd believe her.

"Nope, it's all good. The fence is in tip top shape." She smiled, putting on a facade. This is a discussion to have with Enitan, she decided.

"Alright, well, you should get some rest. You look dog tired." Rowan chuckles warmly. She grimaced internally at the thought of napping at the cabin. Hopefully someone brought something a bit more comfortable than the old sleeping bag she used in her junior year of high school. Nevertheless, she nodded and left to untack Pepper.

| ❆ | [ 11 / 11 / 2020 || 3:45 PM || REDWOOD POINT RANGER STATION, JORVIK ] | ❆ |

Sighing to herself, Camelia turns Pepper out to pasture with the other horses. Grinning wildly, she watches them bounce and play with each other. The sun is already setting due to the season, so she seeks shelter inside the stable and begins to prepare a stall for her trusty mare. She feels her expression soften and, out of habit, begins to hum the same tune she did earlier.

A stall door closes and she doesn't bother to look, until she hears a familiar voice that could light up a room.

"Cam?" Rania questions "I recognize your humming. Is that you?"

Cam nods instinctually before snapping into reality and correcting herself "Oh! Yes, Rania, it's me. Do you need any help?"

"No," the dark haired girl grins softly "I just had a feeling, you know-"

"A feeling?" Cam blinks. "What kind of feeling?"

"Well, the rangers' exploration is over, but... I've a feeling yours isn't?" Her grin turns into a smile. "I felt what you did with that horse. I might not have been able to see it, but Aideen willing I felt it."

Cam trails off, just saying that the "humming" was merely something she's tried with other wild horses and it seemed to calm them. Rania clearly didn't buy it, but she knew that she could grill Cam on it later.

"Regardless," Rania taps the door of Dellingr's stall "what do you say you and I do a little exploring?"

Cam's face explodes from Rania's contagious grin.

And that's exactly what those two girls did, too. They wandered all over the woodlands with their mounts, taking pictures and describing landmarks.

FIN. 2161 WORDS.

| ❆ | [ 11 / 11 / 2020 || 6:30 PM || WILDWOODS, JORVIK ] | ❆ |

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violetsmoak · 4 years

Text

Pieces of April [4/?]

AO3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21099044/chapters/50202530

Summary: On the anniversary of his death, Jason’s second life takes an abrupt new turn and he’s faced with a challenge that neither Batman nor the All-Caste prepared him for.

Rating: PG-13 (rating may change later)

Warning(s): Past Jason/Isabel, kidfic, minor canon character death (pretty sure you can guess who, not either of our boys!), I’ll add more warnings/tags as I think of them.

Canon-Compliance: Takes place in between the two RHATO series, so after Roy and Kori and before Artemis and Bizarro.

Author’s Note: In which panicking Jason needs someone to help ground him...

First Chapter

________________________________________________________________

Jason only just makes it to the nearest bathroom and upchucks everything he’s consumed in the past five and a half hours.

He is left with only the same sweaty, stomach-warbling panic he remembers from the most frightening moments in his life.

Finding his mother’s limp body in a piss-stained back alley. Making a run from Batman and being unable to escape that heavy, gauntleted hand clamping down on his shoulder. The first time he jumped off Wayne Tower with only a reinforced grapple line to hold him up. The first time he got shot. The first time he watched Bruce break down in front of him.

His first and last moments looking at a too-wide smile and the gleam of a bloodied crowbar. A timer ticking down to zero.

It doesn’t make sense.

In the vast procession of frightening and dangerous screw-ups that litter his life, the news that he has a kid shouldn’t fill him with so much dread. But right now, he feels paralyzed and can’t even sort through his spinning thoughts long enough to figure out why.

Jason wipes his mouth with the back of his hand and stumbles out of the bathroom, ignoring wary looks sent his way by several hospital staff. His stomach is still flip-flopping, but he doesn’t think he’s doing to puke again, so now…he just needs to move.

Once he escapes the maternity ward, he has no idea where he’s supposed to do next. The largest part of himself wants to leave the hospital—and the situation—as fast as possible and not look back.

It’s what he does, isn’t it? Get into a jam, leave a trail of fire and debris, and then move on to the next job so as the avoid the consequences as long as possible.

But that’s just it, isn’t it? Can’t avoid consequences forever.

He planned an entire vengeful crusade around that premise and as for himself, he’s never been one to try to avoid what’s coming to him. It’s just usually when he throws himself headlong into complicated situations, he has a pretty accurate idea of what the outcome will look like.

Not this time, though.

This time, his wandering is as aimless as he thoughts, having no direction and no destination in mind. Doors and stairwells and different hospital wards pass him but he barely registers.

“I’ll be back with your daughter.”

Daughter.

This—now—a daughter—a baby: it’s too much. Too much information or implication or whatever it is blocking the part of his brain that thinks ahead. There’s just too much.

Sometimes when things get to be too much, you need to take a step back, chum.

Bruce’s voice echoes in his head somewhere, rising above the gibbering panic.

Most of the time you’ll have too little information to go on—but very occasionally, you’ll have too much. In either case, there are drawbacks, but you still take the same approach. Focus on one aspect at a time. Move through your process as slowly, methodically as possible. You must have all the facts before you can formulate a cohesive plan of attack.

Jason snorts, shaking his head and the thought away with it.

Because Bruce was clearly slow and methodical when the demon brat appeared on the scene. The way Jason’s heard, the kid shows up and the same night he’s living at the manor.

B’s biggest problem has always been how quick he is to go down the accidental-kid-acquisition route.

Which makes him about the last person Jason wants to be thinking about right now. Even just thinking about what his reaction would be if he found out about Jason’s situation makes his skin crawl. All he needs on top of things is judgement and disappointment the way only Batman can get just right, especially when it comes to Jason.

(Not least of all because Bruce was the one to make him sit through a painful and—what Jason believed, up until now, to be—completely unnecessary talk about safe sex back when Jason met his first girlfriend.)

Except.

As messed up as Bruce and his methods sometimes were, more often than not it’s those early lessons that kept Jason alive. Especially after he died.

So…okay.

Facts.

Isabel is dead.

That’s a fact.

Something solid, something he can deal with, as shitty as it feels to do so.

Jason knows how to deal with the dead—hell, he was the dead. It doesn’t get any closer than that. There’s a routine to it, expectations and procedure—

He can start with that.

Destination finally in mind, he sets off.

Hospitals are the same everywhere, really. If you look like you know where you’re going and walk with enough confidence in your stride, people don’t question you or your presence.

Jason finds the hospital mortuary with relative ease, orchestrates a distraction for the morgue attendant with the same, and heads inside. A cold chill creeps up his spine at the familiar, ever-present lingering stench of formaldehyde. He’s had nightmares of that smell ever since he woke up from his coma, and he doesn’t know why since he was stone-dead before he went anywhere near a morgue.

He snags the attendant’s discarded tablet on his way past the empty desk and scans down the list of names, teeth clenching when he recognizes what he’s looking for.

Maria Isabela Ardila, 25. Preliminary cause of death, contingent on full postmortem: pulmonary abruption.

So she hasn’t been autopsied yet, which means she’s not in a drawer. It’s only been about two hours…

Jason ducks into the adjacent lab, glancing at several gurneys with body bags on them. He doesn’t even need to check the identifying tags; only one of them contains a body of Isabel’s height and build.

He approaches the body bag slowly, is barely aware of his arm reaching out, of carefully unzipping it over her face.

And there she is.

Pale now, no more color in her cheeks, hair limp with dried sweat. Her jaw is slack, expression devoid of the light and spark that drew her to him in the first place.

He’ll never see it again.

Jason swallows.

It’s not like he was in love with her or anything, but it was a close thing—if given the chance, he might have one day felt for her the way he felt for Essence. The knowledge that he’s lost yet another potential human connection is another blow he wasn’t expecting today.

“What the hell were you thinking?” he murmurs, fists balling.

He’s angry, but not at her for being dead. Well, okay, he is a little. Not completely because from what he understands, what killed her is something that could happen to anyone.

No, what he’s angry about is the fact she was pregnant and didn’t tell him. That she both kept and kept secret the fact she was having his kid, never gave him a chance to know about it or to try to convince her why it would be a bad idea.

And now she’s dead and if it hadn’t been for him—if he hadn’t met her—she’d still be alive right now.

The skin over his knuckles is pulled painfully tight now, and he forces himself to loosen his fist and shake it off. Slowly, he reaches out and lays his palm across Isabel’s forehead.

“I’m sorry,” he murmurs. “This is all my fault.”

He backs away, threading his fingers through his hair in an effort to keep himself from lashing out with fists.

This is so messed up. This is so…too much.

And sitting in the morgue is probably not helping.

He paces back and forth a minute longer, before digging into his pocket for his phone. It’s time to contact the one person who can usually knock him out of his own head.

Roy has gone through this. Hell, Jason watched him go through it, he was there when Jade told him that he was a father. Roy knows what it’s like to have something like this dropped on you out of the blue.

It takes longer than normal to get through, but Roy answers all the same.

“…Jaybird?”

He sounds rough, but not strained in the way Jason would associate with imminent explosions. He can only hope his own voice is a little stronger. It takes a bit, mouth opening and closing soundlessly as he tries to figure out what to say.

“I’m in a mess,” he manages. “And I don’t know what the hell I’m supposed to do.”

“Gotham style mess, or alien mess?” Roy asks warily.

“I…have a kid.”

There’s nothing but the sound of static for several breaths, and then, “…Say again?”

“A kid. A…baby, technically. She’s…I just…found out. An hour ago? Seems like longer—”

He’s pacing again.

“Whoa, hold on, slow the hell down, what do you mean you have a kid? How—?”

“Do I really need to paint a picture?” Jason hisses.

“Nah, I’m good—but shit, Jay, this is—whoa.” Pause. “Are you okay?”

It’s the first time anyone’s out and out asked him. Drake sort of did, but that was buried under the guise of assessing if he was injured.

“Not really,” he admits. Then, “Isabel’s dead.”

“What? No—how is that related to—?”

“She’s the mother. Was the mother. She bled out delivering the…”

The baby.

His daughter.

“Shit.” Roy groans, exhaling harshly. And again, “Shit. Jay. I’m sorry, man. I know things didn’t work out, but…she was cool.”

“Yeah…” Jason swallows. “Roy, I have no fucking clue what I’m supposed to do.”

“No kidding. Okay. I hear ya buddy. First of all, take a breath. Or five hundred.” Somehow it’s less irksome being told to breathe by Roy than his replacement. “This is big. You’re allowed to freak out, but not so much where you lose your head, okay? And look at it this way, at least Isabel wasn’t an internationally renowned assassin that more often than not wanted to kill you.”

Jason coughs out an unexpected, manic chuckle at that.

“Where are you right now?”

“Hospital. Technically, the morgue.”

A pained exhale at that. “Isabel, right?”

“Right.”

“And the kid?”

“Up in the maternity ward still.” Jason pauses. “Drake’s keeping an eye on her.”

“Drake? As in Tim Drake?”

“Don’t sound so surprised, you’re the one who picked up the damn phone and sent him to babysit me.”

“Yeah, but that was before...”

“Before it turned out there was actual babysitting involved?”

“Right.”

Jason swallows back another wave of mounting hysteria.

“He’s as weirded out by this as I am, and I don’t know how long it’s going to be before he tattles to the Bat cavalry. Could really use someone in my corner on this one.”

“It sounds to me like you already do,” Roy points out, “at least in the short term.”

“Yeah, well, he’s never been in this situation, unless Wayne’s PR-team is a lot better at their jobs than I thought.”

Roy sighs heavily, in a way that immediately has Jason’s shoulders tense.

“You know I’d be there in a second if I could. But right now, I’m kinda…tied up.”

Jason frowns. “Literally or metaphorically?”

“Little bit of both?”

“Do you need me to—?”

“No! No, you have your own issues to deal with right now. The kind that trump mine, and your first instinct can’t be to leave Gotham in your rear-view instead of dealing with this.”

Why not? Jason wants to ask but doesn’t.

“Look, Jay…” Roy sighs, weary. “This sort of thing…there’s nothing I can tell you that to give you an easy answer here. Kids…every kid is different. It’s always different, so…you gotta go with your gut. Ain’t nothing anyone else can tell you to do. And as messed up as you are right now, it’s not about you. It’s about what’s best for her.”

Jason nods at this even though Roy can’t see him. Maybe if he focusses on that—distances himself from the situation, thinks about the baby like it belongs to someone else. Needs to think about it like some Crime Alley orphan he’s rescued and needs to take care of.

Temporarily.

Until he figures it all out.

“Listen, whatever you decide, I’m with you man. Ride or die, even if I’m not there right this second. Soon as I can, I’m there,” Roy goes on. “Until then, whatever you do, don’t try to go it alone. I know from experience trying to deal with a tiny human on your own is asking for trouble.”

Jason inhales slowly, scowling at the sharp smell in the air and forces an exhale. “So don’t run Drake off.”

“Or try to kill him.”

“Again.”

Jason glances back to Isabel’s body on the gurney, stares at the lifeless face that will never smile again. Thinks of the infant upstairs who may or may not look like her, but who is definitely his.

“I have to get back upstairs,” he says. “Got some decisions to make.”

And that’s putting it lightly…

He starts to hang up, but then Roy speaks again. “Hey, Jaybird?”

“Yeah?”

“Bouncing baby girl, that’s…” his best friend swallows so heavily it’s audible across the line. “That’s something.”

Jason knows he’s thinking about Lian.

“Yeah, man, it’s…it’s definitely something.”

________________________________________________________________

Hm, I think next chapter we'll check in with Tim's POV, just to switch things up...

Your feedback matters! I want to know what you think of my story, so feel free to leave kudos, a comment or as many of these emojis as you want and let me know how you feel!

❤️️ = I love this story! 😳 = this was hot! 💐 = thank you for sharing this 🍵 = tea spilled 🍬 = so sweet and fluffy! 🚔 = you’re under arrest! the writing’s too good! 😲 = I NEED THE NEXT CHAPTER 😢 = you got me right in the feels

Next Chapter

#violetsmoak #Violet writes #jaytim #jaytim fanfiction #babyfic #accidental baby acquisition #enemies to lovers #eventual slash #jason todd #roy harper #coping with big news

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raptorginger · 5 years

Text

In the Land of Gods & Monsters: chapter 8 - Dottie

chapter 1, chapter 2, chapter 3, chapter 4, chapter 5, chapter 6, chapter 7

Rey was slack jawed as Ben led her from his suite and down a long hallway. She looked right and left and up and down, her eyes never lingering more than a few seconds in any one spot before something else drew her gaze. This part of the manor gave off a very private feel, with gauzy curtains drawn over floor to ceiling windows and sconces only faintly lit. A thick carpet runner in a Persian motif ran the length of the hallway floor, warm cherrywood beneath it. Several large paintings were hung on the walls, and Rey recognized the hallmarks of Rembrandt and VerMeer in many of them. Stands of intricately carved wood stood in the spaces between the windows, each crowned with a delicate painted porcelain vase or bowl heaped with fresh flowers and foliage. They passed by several closed doors, and Rey couldn’t help but wonder what was behind each one. She intended to find out.

As they came to the end of the hallway, Rey and Ben alighted on to a broad landing. Rey’s eyes boggled. Above them was a massive crystal chandelier, its arms gracefully curved upward and dripping with crystal baubles and ropes. The crystals shimmered fiercely in the light from the large picture window behind them, the heavy curtains elegantly swagged. Glancing out, Rey was able to glean just a hint of the grounds. A paved patio stood below them, tables and chairs of finely wrought metal placed here and there. Two men were busy cleaning the metal, diligently rubbing and polishing with different rags and cleaners.

Ben tugged on her arm gently, drawing her attention away from the window and to the large wide marble staircase before her. The marble was a light honey color, the bannister a warm bronze. Each spindle was finely turned, twisting and scrolling almost like vines. Rey reached out with her fingers and lightly touched the polished metal, surprised to find it as warm to the touch as it looked. At the bottom of the stairs stood a man and a woman, both dressed simply but elegantly, the man in black and the woman in white and blue. The man was tall and thin with warm golden skin and a shock of white hair. The woman was much shorter and plumper, her hair a silvery blue and wild beneath a mop cap. The woman smiled warmly up at the both of them while the man made a nervous bow. He seemed possessed of a number of nervous tics and twitches, but his golden eyes were kind.

“My Lord, it is good to see you!” the woman said cheerfully as she clapped her hands together.

“Indeed it is, My Lord! I trust the journey was pleasant,” the man said, his voice clipped and polished.

The corner of Ben’s mouth twitched upward and Rey ducked her head to hide her blush. “Most pleasant, Cyril. I see you’ve kept things ship shape, Artemis?”

“Of course, My Lord! I wanted everything just perfect should, well,” Artemis said, gesturing to Rey.

Rey shivered slightly as she felt Ben’s fingers rest lightly on the small of her back. She took a small step forward and nodded to Artemis and Cyril.

“Rey, this is Artemis Deeton, my housekeeper and Cyril Cyrus Cowperthweit, my valet. Cyril, Artemis, this is Rey Jinn, soon to be Lady Ky’loren. I trust you’ll treat her with the same amount of respect you would treat any Lady.”

They responded simultaneously, “Of course, My Lord!”

Ben turned to Rey and leaned in, brushing her cheek with his lips. “I have some business to attend to with my estate manager, Dopheld Mitaka. I’ll leave you in Ms. Deeton’s very capable hands.”

Rey felt panic rising in her chest, but she managed to remain outwardly calm as she nodded in acknowledgment. She watched him walk away towards a different end of the manor, his stride long and purposeful.

Artemis clapped her hands together and exclaimed, “Where to start, My Lady?”

“I’m sure her ladyship would appreciate being shown to her chambers,” Cyril answered sarcastically.

In response, Artemis waved her hands in a dismissive motion. “Oh bother you. Go find something to polish.”

Cyril rolled his eyes lovingly and strode off. Rey looked at the older woman, a bemused expression on her face.

“He can be such a bother, but I love him,” Artemis said affectionately.

“Are you and he,” Rey began to say, gesturing with her hands.

“Mated? Yes,” Artemis replied. Taking her ample skirts in one hand, the woman began to ascend the stairs again. “Come now my dear lady. Cyril’s right. Let’s see your rooms.”

Rey scurried up the stairs after Artemis, following her as she turned down the opposite hallway from Ben’s. It appeared her and Ben’s rooms were on different ends of the manor. Rey couldn’t decide if that was odd or not.

Artemis seemed to sense her confusion and provided an answer. “Lord Ky’loren’s grandmother Lady Padme had her rooms moved to this end of the manor. They overlook the gardens.”

As they reached the end of the hallway, Artemis pushed open a door of pale colored wood, and Rey had to take a step back. The door opened into a bright sitting room of cream, pale green, indigo, and gold. Frothy silk and gauze curtains of cream and pale green were open to let in as much light as possible from the large windows. Chairs upholstered in a deep indigo silk sat at a delicately carved dark wood table accented with gold leaf. A lovely matched writing desk was placed between two of the windows, and Rey saw her books placed on the polished top. Above the pale stone fireplace was a large painting of a garden scene, soft colors and shapes swirling and dancing together. The signature in the corner was one Rey didn’t recognize. She stood on her toes to examine the rough scrawled signature more closely, squinting to try and make out the letters.

“One of the previous lords, Lord Anakin Skywalker, painted that for Lady Padme,” Artemis said softly, a hint of sadness in her voice. “Never was there a couple more besotted with each other who suffered so much.”

Rey looked at Artemis confused. The names were familiar, but she couldn’t recall any details. Artemis sighed sadly and continued on to the bedroom. It was decorated in a similar manner to the sitting room, the furniture made of the same dark wood with gold leaf accents. Pale green silk curtains with a gold exotic peacock print hung from the bedposts, and Rey reached out to touch them. The silk rippled beneath her fingers, soft and airy. Peeking behind a smaller door, Rey saw a bathing room similar to Ben’s, again decorated in cream, pale green, and gold.

Rey made a sound of acknowledgment when she heard Artemis call out, “Be sure to let me know what scents you like for your bath, My Lady.”

French doors of paned glass stood closed on one wall, and Rey approached them cautiously, looking over her shoulder at Artemis. The friendly woman gave her an encouraging smile, and Rey threw them open, revealing a stone balcony with a wrought iron railing. The rooms did indeed look out over the gardens, and Rey clapped her hands to her mouth at the beautiful sight. This part of the gardens were allowed to grow wild, with little to no sculpting or manicuring. It was a riot of greens and colors, lush blooms and heavily scented vines. Delicate tendrils of honeysuckle were creeping up the railing, and Rey knelt to take in their delicate fragrance. A small table and a single chair were tucked in the corner of the balcony, a small hurricane lamp in the middle. A gentle breeze was blowing, and Rey inhaled deeply, taking a moment to sit in the chair. Artemis approached slowly and pulled something from her apron pocket. Looking up, Rey saw she was holding a handkerchief out to her. She took the cloth gratefully, dabbing her eyes.

“I’ve never seen anything like this,” Rey whispered, looking out over the gardens and back at the bedroom. Her bedroom. “I could sit here forever.”

Artemis patted her shoulder before she said teasingly, “I don’t think you’d like to in the winter, Dearie.”

Rey laughed and pushed herself out of the chair, taking Artemis’ outstretched arm gratefully. They toured most of the rest of the house arm in arm, laughing all the while. Artemis introduced the staff as they passed them, each servant bowing respectfully to Rey before resuming their various tasks.

“Lord Ky’loren has asked that I escort you to the library to join him for tea. He should be finished with Mr. Mitaka by now,” Artemis said conversationally as they reached the bottom of the grand staircase again after touring the downstairs areas.

Rey furrowed her brow. Something was bothering her. “Ms. Deeton, who is Mr. Mitaka?”

“He’s the estate manager. He helps Lord Ky’loren with things like finances, tenant matters, and the like.”

Rey hummed. Something still bothered her. “His name is Dopheld?”

“Yes. Why do you ask, My Lady?”

“I feel like I’ve heard that name before, but I can’t remember,” Rey grumbled.

“It’s a strange one, I’ll give you that,” Artemis laughed.

Artemis led her down another hallway, this one shorter and darker as there were no windows. At the end of the hall a large set of double doors stood open, and once again Rey was left dumbstruck. The room was a good two stories in height with a metal spiral staircase on either side leading up to a floor that ran around the entire room. Burgundy leather armchairs and warm wood tables were scattered around the floor, some piled with books and papers. Book shelves of different heights lined the walls, different sculptures and busts perched haphazardly at different heights. A fire glowed dimly in the large fieldstone fireplace, the broad hearth flanked by large stone lions. Beneath a window there was a large map desk, and Rey felt her heart give a strange flip flop sensation as her eyes alighted on Ben. He was focused intently on something, his dark hair flopping in front of his face. He was listening intently as another man spoke and pointed to something. She saw the moment Ben caught her scent in the air. His eye twitched and his back straightened. He turned and smiled at her, his hand held out. Rey began to stride towards him eagerly, her own hands outstretched, when she caught sight of the other man with him.

She stopped dead in her tracks, her eyes wide with disbelief. He was a pleasant looking fellow, with dark, neatly trimmed hair. He was pale, and a good deal smaller than Ben. His polite smile faded as he too caught sight of her, transforming into a similar look of disbelief.

Rey began to sing softly, her voice tremulous:

There shall I gaze on the mountains again

On the fields and the woods and the burns and the glens

And Dopheld finished:

Away ‘mong the corries beyond human ken

In the haunts of the deer will I roam

They sang the chorus together, rushing towards each other.

“Sonnenschein!” Dopheld cried, enveloping Rey in a fierce embrace and swinging her off her feet.

“Dottie! I can’t believe it!” Rey exclaimed, her smile as bright as her tears of joy.

#reylo #reylo fanfiction #fanfiction #historical au #regency au #reylo au #Alpha/Beta/Omega dynamics #reylo a/b/o #alpha ben solo #omega rey

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the-jade-cross · 3 years

Text

A Thousand Years - Chapter 4

Kamber was seated on her bed, cross-legged. She had dimmed the lights so that it wouldn’t wake up her siblings across the hallway. She had a black kitten stuffed animal cuddled in her lap and she was flipping through a book she had obtained from the library about bites, scars and other such things.

She flopped back against her pillows and sighed, hugging the stuffed animal to her chest, “Now I know why Glynn decided to not study law! Why is everything so complicated!” Just then, she heard the slightest of thuds by her window but with her enhanced hearing, she heard it. Sitting up straight and getting into a defense pose on her knees, her eyes widened. Squatting on her sill was Edward. He had a backpack on his back which was something new and he had a smirk on his face.

“Sorry if I startled you,” he said, “Please don’t jump me.” Kamber chuckled softly and sat back down on her feet, suddenly relieved he wasn’t a burglar but also slightly embarrassed for she wasn’t expecting him and she happened to wear a blush pink sleeping shirt and pale blue pants… and pink and black polka dot socks. It wasn’t that Kamber was one for fashion or looking nice all the time, but her outfit didn’t match and clashed with her red hair.

Edward smirked at how the girl’s cheeks enflamed at her slight embarrassment and she ducked her face behind her hair.

“Sorry to barge in but I got the photos of the corpse from my dad.” “Oh goodie!” Kamber said, perking up, “I was just looking over different wounds and scars.” Edward sat down on the end of Kamber’s bed and sat cross-legged just like she was. He held out a yellow envelope to her and Kamber opened it, spilling the photos on the bed between them.

She shifted through them till she came upon the photo of the major wound. She grimaced at the sight and looked away a moment.

“Okay…. That doesn’t look like anything that I saw in here….”

Edward noticed how the blood drained from her face. He was puzzled at first, wondering how a vampire was affected by gore but then he remembered that Kamber was more human than him, eating human food and besides that, her morph was a deer… a vegetarian!

“Does it make you uncomfortable?” he asked.

The girl nodded and Edward quickly flipped the photo over, so she didn’t have to look at it. Kamber let out a sigh and smiled at Edward as a thank you, the color reappearing to her face.

“See anything else that could help?” he asked.

The girl scanned slowly over the photos before her hands fell upon one which was a picture of the man’s left and right arms.

“That’s weird,” she muttered.

“What?” Edward asked, leaning over to look at the photo, “The blood on his hand? Couldn’t he have just touched the wound?” The girl shook her head, “I didn’t need to look at that wound long to know that it would have killed him instantly. Besides… there is blood going up his arm too... but what is even weirder is his creases.”

“Huh?”

“The creases on his fingers. For normal humans, their creases go perpendicular to their fingers… but his go parallel… almost like his fingers were stretched then pushed back in,” Kamber explained. “That is so weird.” Edward frowned, “Anything else?” the girl nodded and held up the photo, pointing to a small name embroidered onto the man’s shirt: Winston’s.

“A company?” Edward asked.

Kamber peeked over the top of the photo and smiled, “From the look of it, he was killed on his way back or to work. He was dressed nicely, and time of death was 7 in the morning. In that case, we can locate more information on him through the company.” “We already have his address though,” Edward pointed out.

Kamber smiled, “Who says that is his only address?” Before Edward could ask her what she was up to, she had jumped up and grabbed her cell phone. She quickly looked something up before holding out the phone to him. Edward took it and saw she had pulled up the Winston company’s website, had located employees and had pulled up Jason Bounds!

“That was fast!” Edward pointed out.

“That’s what you get for having a dad as a lawyer. Now, look at the address.” Edward nodded, “Same address your dad obtained. What about?” “Now look at the secondary address.” Edward looked at it and frowned, “Wisconsin?”

Kamber nodded, “And according to dad, the only family he has are his parents who live in Florida, a sister who lives in Kentucky and a few cousins who live in Texas. All of them way out of their way from Wisconsin.” “Strange,” Edward whispered. “We should probably go investigate this address.” Kamber jumped slightly on her knees and clapped her hands like a little kid. Smiling, Edward left her with his phone number so they could decide a time to journey to Wisconsin. As Edward headed back to the window, Kamber followed him.

“I’ll give you a heads up before I barge in next time,” Edward told her, smirking down at her.

Kamber smiled and jumped to give him a hug but this resulted in the photos being knocked out of his hands and falling to the floor. Kamber went to grab them but Edward beat her to it. Just as Edward was rising back to his full height, he realized that their faces were inches apart. Kamber was looking slightly down at him with her eyes wide and cheeks tinted red.

Edward slowly rose to his height but kept his eyes fixed on Kamber’s not letting his intense gaze waver. The girl was looking up at him with startled, confused and rather shocked eyes. Edward’s instincts were telling him to hug her or kiss her… but something deep in his gut told him to cherish the girl before him and not make her uncomfortable too fast.

Reaching forward, the boy brushed his ice-cold fingertips across her cheek, earning a soft gasp from her before retracting his hand slowly and smiling at her.

“See you later.”

And with that, he was gone. About three minutes later, Calliope was walking down the hallway on her way to get a glass of water when she heard a noise in her older sister’s room. Pressing her ear to the door, she heard the bed creak loudly as Kamber jumped on it and she heard a muffled squeal of joy. Sisters!

**************

“So, you’re going to need at least a pair of heels,” Alice muttered to herself.

“Alice,” Kamber pointed out, chuckling softly, “it’s just a day trip! We won’t even need to stay anywhere! I don’t even need to pack a suitcase.” Alice looked up from the list she was writing of the things Kamber needed to pack for her Wisconsin trip, “Says who? I might just have Jasper ‘accidently’ lose your plane tickets back so you two have to spend the night!” Rose’s head perked up right away at that. She was seated at the counter with Hermione and Nevaeh sitting on either side of her, drawing with crayons (which she had forced Emmett to run to the store and get) while Vanessa sat on her lap. The little girl’s long hair was half braided into pigtails and Rose was halfway through braiding the second one when she looked up.

“As much as I second the vote for ensuring Kamber’s future as our sister-in-law, I think that is a little much Alice.” Kamber looked between the two girls in puzzlement. She wasn’t quite sure what was going on and didn’t really understand what they were talking about until Eustace spoke up from where he was playing chess with Jasper.

“You’re getting married to Edward sis?” Kamber’s face at once turned a beet red and she began to sweat, “What? When did you… I never… what?” There was the sound of chuckling and everyone turned to see that Emmett, Vince and Glynn had appeared in the doorway, all three of them looking like they had been thrown against a few things but all three of them laughing.

“Just a joke sis,” Vince told the girl, wrapping his arms around his sister, “Just a joke.” “That might be a joke,” Jasper spoke up from his spot on the floor, “But are Edward’s eyes black?” Everyone spun around to see that Edward had descended the stairs. He was standing on the bottom step, one hand on the rail with a perplexed look on his face. However, it was clear as day what Jasper was talking about. Rather than the golden or pale brown color, his eyes were jet black.

“Edward, you need to feed!” Emmett said, closing the front door, “You cannot go to Wisconsin without feeding!” “We’re leaving in an hour for the airport Emmett,” Edward pointed out. “It’s fine. If I try to feed before we leave, I won’t have time.” “Then just cancel the trip to Wisconsin and go in a few days,” Alice suggested. I’ll refund the tickets and schedule another flight in three days!” Edward shook his head, “the only hotel within fifty miles of the address won’t have another opening for a week.”

“Then I’ll go alone,” Kamber remarked aloud, “I don’t have to feed.” Edward was across the room in a manner of milliseconds and had grabbed Kamber by the arms and was looking into her face intensely.

“NO!” he cried, “Kamber you can’t!” “Why not?” the girl asked, completely puzzled at his outburst, “We’ll refund one of the tickets and….”

“No!” Edward replied again, almost urgently, “You cannot go alone.” Kamber at first thought that his reasons were because he didn’t want to be left out but then she realized that he was merely concerned about her going to a strange place alone. Smiling sweetly, she nodded and Edward at once relaxed.

“Well,” Esme said, clapping her hands and announcing her and Carlisle’s appearance, “Now that is all cleared up, since you two will not be traveling this week, Mr. and Mrs. Vicasi invited us on a double date tomorrow night.” A smirk appeared on Rose’s face and placing Vanessa on a chair, rose to her feet and stood next to Emmett, “Jasper, Alice. We have a surprise for you.” The two exchanged knowing looks before Rose held out an envelope. Alice opened it and gasped.

“Tickets to Alaska!” Rose cheered, “It’s you and Jasper’s anniversary this weekend! We’re leaving in the morning! WE invited Vince and Glynn to come along!” “NO WAY!” Alice chirped, rushing over to hug her two adopted siblings.

Just then, Zayne’s eyes widened, “But… tomorrow we’re going over for a sleepover with Jacob.”

“That do….” Rose started but Emmett cut her off with a peck on the cheek.

“Who does ‘we’ imply?” Kamber inquired.

“Me, Calliope and Antigone,” Zayne replied.

Everyone present began to do the calculations before Rose’s eyes fell on Edward and Kamber.

“So!” she chirped, “You two will be on babysitting duty!” Edward looked over at Kamber, not sure what to say at that moment but the girl smiled, “That works with me. That will give us time to work on investigating Harrison Gerasimov anyway.” Edward stared at the girl in wonder. Tomorrow, they would be alone for at least four hours together. Not like they didn’t spend time together but since Edward’s first excursion into her room, they hadn’t been alone together at all….

***************

The next evening, Edward was standing on the stairs in stunned amazement. The parents had been gone for about an hour, Rose, Emmett, Alice, Jasper, Vince and Glynn had left that morning and the other three teens had been at the Black’s since noon. Now however, the Vicasi kids were drooping off to sleep one by one like dead leaves falling from the trees. Whenever Kamber finished getting one comfortable on the couch or in one of the bedrooms upstairs, another one was falling asleep.

Edward had meant to help but even if he could move, he wouldn’t know what to do. However, he was frozen to the spot in wonderment and astonishment. Kamber came flying down the stairs on silent feet but instead of going down the last eight steps, she jumped over the railing and landed lightly on the ground next to it, grabbing Kenelm who had come out of the bathroom but was nodding off to bed where he stood.

The boy let out a soft purring sound as he cuddled up to his sister’s chest and threw his arms around her neck.

Kamber smiled sweetly at him before trotting over to the only empty couch and placing him there so he didn’t wake up. She covered him with a blanket and fondled his wavy hair.

The girl let out a sigh and plopped down on the kitchen counter.

“That’s everyone,” she sighed.

Edward chuckled softly and approached her, finally out of his trance.

“You’re used to that?” he asked, leaning his elbows on the counter next to her.

Kamber nodded, “Usually though the others are here to help but there have been times I’ve had to do it alone. When the others are here, we make it a game to see who can put how many of the little ones to bed.”

Edward chuckled, “You’re a natural.”

Kamber smiled, “I’ve always had a love for family. Before we moved here, I would babysit our werewolf cousins. One day I wish to have a family of my own.” Edward looked up at this and frowned, “But… as a vampire, cannot you not have kids?”

“That is what I thought for a while,” Kamber pointed out. “I was afraid that I hadn’t inherited my mother’s ability to bear children. But I still have my cycle.”

Edward felt his ears go red from hearing that. He had learnt what a woman’s cycle was before he got turned into a vampire and honestly, when a woman was on a cycle it was sometimes hard.

“So… you’re able to bear… children…” Edward whispered.

Kamber smiled and nodded, not quite sure why Edward’s eyes seemed to be shining. “Yeah.”

Edward swallowed, not realizing his mouth had gone dry. Kamber let out a sigh and hopped off the counter. However, Edward spun around the moment he sensed her stumble.

Reaching forward, he grabbed her around the shoulders to stop her fall.

“Sorry,” the girl sighed, her eyes closed and pressing her face against his chest, “I didn’t get enough sleep this week apparently.” Edward smiled, “well rest then. I’ll keep watch.” Kamber nodded and letting out a content sigh and smile, she nestled against Edward’s shoulder and neck and closed her eyes. Edward’s heart jumped as she clutched her hands to her chest like an innocent little child.

Smiling, Edward sat down on the floor and leant against the couch since all the couches were occupied with sleeping kids. Kamber shifted slightly and sighed as she resituated herself against Edward’s side. He ran his fingers through her hair and marveled at how silky yet fluffy it felt. The girl smiled in her sleep and cuddled closer to his chest. Edward felt his heart pound when her cheek pressed against his chest and her breath hit his neck.

“What are you doing to me?” he whispered in a barely audible voice.

Kamber didn’t move but what Edward didn’t know was that the girl’s heart was pounding a mile a minute.

“Kambi?” a soft voice whispered.

Kamber was up in an instant, pushing Edward away, “Oh… Vanessa.” The little girl stood on the bottom step, her eyes blurry from sleep and dressed in a pair of PJ’s she had obtained from Alice’s room which pooled at her feet because they were so long. “I had a weird dream,” the girl whispered, rubbing her fist against her eyes sleepily. “I saw mommy and daddy.” Smiling, Kamber held out her arms to the girl and Vanessa waddled into her sister’s lap, resting against Vanessa’s chest just like Vanessa had been to Edward not moments before.

“Want to talk about it?” Kamber asked her little sister.

Vanessa nodded and leant her back against Vanessa’s chest, “I saw mommy and daddy at their wedding.” “Who’s wedding?”

“Mommy and daddy’s,” Vanessa replied, puzzled as to why her sister wasn’t understanding.

“Huh?” both Edward and Kamber asked at the same time. “But you weren’t even born then…”

“Then I saw Glynn’s birthday…”

Kamber slowly glanced over at Edward then back at her sister, “Which one?” “His fifth…. He was so chubby!” Kamber slowly lifted her eyes to Edward’s and all the color drained from her face, “Vanessa… were you really asleep….” The little girl pressed her finger to her chin thoughtfully, “No… I was in the bathroom getting a drink when it happened. It was like a daydream.” Edward was still trying to comprehend what was going on when Kamber got up from the floor, placing the half asleep Vanessa in Edward’s lap. The girl was across the room in seconds and had grabbed her cell phone and quickly dialed a number. Soon the girl’s face showed complete relief when a voice came on from the other side.

“Hi dad…. No everything’s fine… but something weird is happening with Nessa.”

Edward looked down at the girl who was now half asleep in his lap while Kamber continued to talk to her dad over the phone.

“Well she came down and said she said she had a daydream…. No I know but…. This was weird... Dad, she said she said she saw you and mom’s wedding day…. Yeah and Glynn’s fifth birthday…. I know! I wasn’t even born….Yeah…. she’s asleep right now…. Okay…. See you later. Bye.” The girl hung up and placed her phone in her back pocket. She walked back over to Edward and lifting Vanessa off his lap, she placed the girl on the couch and covered her with a blanket.

“Can you help me out? Dad wants everyone out of the living room except Vanessa. He doesn’t want to startle the others. He said they’ll be back pronto.” Edward nodded and soon, the two were silently running up and down the stairs, carrying the still sleeping kids to Alice, Rose, Emmett and Jasper’s bedrooms. Soon, every bed in the house had either one or two kids asleep except Vanessa who was still asleep on the couch.

Kamber was just sitting down when she shot back up again with a cry of pain and clutched her head.

“Kamber?” Edward cried, rushing to her side, “What’s wrong?” “I don’t know…” the girl gasped, “But my head is pounding…. It hurts… so bad!” The front door of the house flew open and the rest of the Cullens and the Vicasi parents charged in. Edward took quick note that Emmett and Jasper were both supporting Vince and Glynn who were both clutching their heads just like Kamber was and seemed weak. Rose, Alice and Esme were carrying Antigone, Zayne and Calliope who looked like they were writhing in their sleep, all three sweating and whimpering in pain.

“When did this happen?” Carlisle asked, rushing to Kamber’s side.

“Just a moment ago,” Edward replied, “We just finished putting the kids upstairs when…”

Without letting the boy finish, Mr. Vicasi flew upstairs and the sound of doors slamming could be heard before he rushed back down.

“That will only hold them for a few minutes…” he explained.

“What?” everyone but Mrs. Vicasi asked in confusion.

MR. Vicasi didn’t have to explain for at that moment, Vince, Glynn, Calliope, Antigone and Zayne woke up. At the same time, Kamber lifted her head and all of them opened their eyes…. They were white!

“Hold them still!” Mr. Vicasi warned.

Edward wrapped his arms around Kamber to pin her down while everyone else rushed to restrain the other kids.

“What is going on?” Rose demanded, helping Alice hold Antigone still.

“We need moonlight,” Zayne hissed in a voice that was not his own.

“What is wrong with them!?” Jasper cried.

Suddenly, just when everyone thought they couldn’t hold the kids anymore, they all crumbled to the ground. Edward grabbed Kamber before she fell and scooped her up into his arms bridal style.

“What happened?” the girl whispered, looking up at Edward with exhausted and confused blue eyes.

“IT’s the pre apocalypse,” Mr. Vicasi sighed, “It’s my fault that I forgot it was today.” “The apocalypse?” Everyone asked.

Mr. Vicasi nodded, “The day the two of us got engaged,” he said, motioning to himself and Mrs. Vicasi, “In one week will be the day the two of us were wed… and will be the day when the kids almost die.”

*************

“Here you go,” Carlisle said, handing each of the Vicasi kids an Ibuprofen and Tylenol. HE sat down next to Esme across from Mr. and Mrs. Vicasi. Mrs. Vicasi had Vanessa on her lap and Mr. Vicasi had Calliope’s sleeping head on his lap and he was stroking her hair.

Edward and Alice were both sitting on either side of Kamber while Emmett and Jasper were helping Vince and Glynn who felt ready to puke at any moment. Rose came down the stairs, having just put Antigone to bed for she had passed out.

“So… what is exactly is the apocalypse?” Edward asked. “That it would cause this kind of pain and reaction? And why didn’t it affect us?” “It is because Mrs. Vicasi and I defied all forms of formality and family tradition. We went against our people’s wishes and trusted our hearts. The Volturi were furious when they found out.”

“So, the Volturi are behind the Apocalypse?” Alice inquired. “That is why I keep seeing them in the dreams when I look into the kids’ futures.” Mr. Vicasi nodded, “They wanted to ensure that our children wouldn’t become like the wolves but inherit more from the vampire side. That is the only way they will let us live in peace if we comply with their wishes and allow the apocalypse.” “But what is it exactly?” Esme asked.

Mrs. Vicasi sighed, “It is the day the two of us went full out against our people and fell for our love for each other. The day we were wed. That day, the Volturi will send out a shock to our children which will basically ensure that they will be considered ‘more vampire than wolf’ by giving them a gift.” “a gift?” Jasper inquired.

“A vampire gift,” MR. Vicasi confirmed, “Just as I am a shield and can mess with time, each of the kids will be gifted a specific vampire gift each. We do not know what kind of gifts they will be. All we know is that the pain the kids will experience will be ten times worse then what they encountered tonight. It will be so great that there might be a possibility that it will throw them into a coma... or worse.” “But they were on the verge of passing out!” Rose cried, “How will they handle it!” “Anesthesia,” Carlisle muttered, “We could put them to sleep till the pain is over. That way they don’t have to feel anything.” Mr. Vicasi nodded, “That was what I was thinking too. But it would have to be for twelve hours.” “It takes twelve hours?” All the Cullen kids cried.

The two Vicasi parents nodded. Kamber let out a soft whimper and slumped. Edward grabbed her around the shoulders to support her.

“It will be fine,” She muttered, her eyes closed.

“I don’t know…” Edward muttered.

The girl smiled up at him, “There is no avoiding it, so there is no point on worrying.” “I’m gonna worry anyway!” The boy protested.

“There is one thing,” Mr. Vicasi said, interrupting, “It also happens to be the day when the court will be discussing the death of Jason Bounds.” Kamber was sitting up straight in an instant, “Then we should finish our investigation before then right!?” “OH NO YOU DON’T!” Edward and Alice said in unison, pushing the girl back, “You are not doing anything till after the apocalypse.” Kamber stuck out her lower lip in a pout, “But…”

“Nope!” Alice said firmly, crossing her arms, “Nothing doing sister!”

Kamber turned her gaze to Edward and gave him big blue puppy eyes. Edward bit the inside of his cheek to keep from falling for those eyes and tried to look away.

“I don’t….”

“Please?” Kamber asked in a pleading voice, “It’s not like I’m doing manual labor! I’ll be your guy in the chair.”

Edward buried his face in his hands and let out a deep breath. He lifted his eyes to look at everyone to see that they were all waiting patiently for his reply. Sighing he looked over at Kamber who was still waiting and finally he smiled.

“Okay fine.”

Without a second’s hesitation the girl threw her arms around Edward’s neck and planted a kiss on his cheek, earning a great deal of whooping from Jasper and Emmett and a muffled squeal from Alice.

*****************

“Do I have to go?” Kamber whimpered.

Alice stared at Kamber in the reflection of the mirror as if Kamber had grown three heads, “Naturally! Jasper and I are going! Don’t know if Esme will convince Emmett and Rose to go. Besides that, it will give you and Edward a chance to take a break. You have been breaking your back the past few days on that case.” Kamber sighed and pouted, “It’s kind of depressing. There is no possible explanation for how Jason Bounds could be killed, and Harrison has a definite alibi.” “Oh he has an alibi?” Alice asked, grabbing a bottle of hairspray.

The girl nodded, “He was in the car with his sister driving to Seattle to visit their parents. We checked security cameras for sign of their car and found they stopped at a gas station on the way. The cameras on the station confirmed that Harrison was there as was his sister so it couldn’t have been them.” Alice grunted in agreement as she finished Kamber’s hair, “There! Now turn around and let me see!” Kamber rose to her feet and twirled around for Alice. The girl clapped her hands together and grinned gleefully, “It’s perfect! That dress does wonders to your hair! By the way, the silver eyeliner is just right to bring out your eye color.” Kamber smiled and glanced at her outfit. She wore a pretty silver dress with high silver heels that Alice had given her. Her hair was pulled up into a curly pinned bun with a few wavy locks falling about her face and ears.

dress, shoes, hair, makeup!

“You’re gorgeous!” Alice chirped.

Kamber giggled and hugged the girl, careful to not mess up Alice’s purple dress and makeup and mostly down hair do.

“Come on!” Alice cried, grabbing the girl’s hand and sprinting down the stairs.

When they reached the bottom of the stairs, the Cullen family turned at their arrival. Rosalie was wearing a cute deep maroon cocktail dress and wore matching makeup and a similar hairstyle to Kamber.

“You look lovely dear!” Esme said, coming to hug Kamber.

Kamber smiled at the woman and tried to escape Rosalie who was joining Alice in fangirling over her makeup and hair.

Just then, everyone stepped back and Kamber found herself looking at Edward who had entered the living room. He looked rather smart in his clean suit and his hair brushed but still perfect. His amber eyes were wide as he stared at the girl who smiled shyly at him.

Alice gave her a gentle shove towards Edward who had been shoved in a similar manner by Jasper.

Edward slowly reached out and touched Kamber’s cheek with his finger and let out a shaky breath, “You look beautiful.” He whispered.

Kamber smiled and ducked her head to hide the deep blush that spread across her face, “Thank you…. You look nice yourself.” Edward held out his hand for the girl and she took it, suddenly realizing that even though his hand was cold, she felt warm inside.

AT THE PARTY

“IT’S SO CUTE!” Alice squealed, grabbing Jasper by the hand and sprinting into the party.

The party was being hosted by the mayor and was being held in the huge grassy soccer field of the school, but white tents had been set up all over the place, making it look almost like a wedding reception. There was a large square space in between all the tents where a dance floor had been set up.

“Come on!” Rosalie cried, grabbing Emmett’s hand and rushing off towards the food table.

Kamber chuckled at their almost childish antics but she had to admit, it had been forever since she had been to a party. In fact, she had never been to a party before. She had always made sure that she never got asked to prom and other than that, there had never been any party to attend.

“Nervous?” Edward asked.

The girl turned her head to look up at him and smiled, “No…. just not sure what to do now.” Edward smiled down at the girl and took her hand into his, “Follow me.” With that, he led the girl onto the dance floor. Before the dance even began Edward knew that Kamber was a great dancer just with how light her feet were and how calm she was. Edward felt his body freeze when Kamber placed her hand on his shoulder and took his hand with her other one. Slowly he slid his hand around her slim waist and felt his throat clench. Why did she have to be so perfect?

Staring down at her, the moonlight reflected off of her blue eyes and her fair face. Before he knew what had happened, he had been staring intensely at the girl for a long time.

Kamber tilted to the side thoughtfully, “What’s wrong? You’ve been staring at me for a long time.” Edward smiled, “Nothing….”

Kamber grinned evilly, “You’re keeping something from me, aren’t you?” “Maybe,” Edward replied. “I just don’t know how to tell you.” The girl smiled, “Just say it. Don’t think to much about it.”

Edward sighed and twirled Kamber around before slowing their dancing, “What would you say if I told you I found my mate?”

Kamber stopped dancing and stared up at Edward a moment. She hoped that her face didn’t show her disappointment and pain. Her heart was pounding and beating so fast she thought she was going to pass out. Did she just lose him? True she had first thought as Edward as like a friend but over the past few weeks she had grown to care about him…. Only to find out that he will never be hers.

“I’d say good for you!” The girl said, playfully punching his arm, forcing a smile onto her face, “When will I get to meet her?”

Edward smiled, “I was actually hoping to introduce the two of you tonight.” Kamber swallowed. Gosh was she glad that Edward couldn’t read her mind! She was going to meet the love of Edward’s life. She was hoping she would have a few days…. More like centuries to get over her feelings before she met her!

“Awesome!” The girl said, hoping that she sounded enthusiastic, “Where is she?” Edward’s smile disappeared, and he took a step closer to Kamber. For a moment she thought that he was going to either dare her to a race or tell her to turn around. However, his hand returned to her waist and pulled her flush against him. His other hand slipped behind her head and into her hair, pulling her face close to his. For what seemed like forever he just stared into her blue eyes before bending his head down and placing his mouth next to her ear.

“She’s you.”

*****************

For once in her life, Kamber hated the fact that she had a beating heart. She knew that with Edward’s enhanced hearing, he could easily hear her heartbeat which was so loud that Kamber was sure a person across the room could hear it. Edward had slowly bowed his head more so that his forehead was resting on Kamber’s shoulder. He hadn’t lifted his head to look at her and was just standing there, his arms around her waist and his nose buried in her neck, inhaling her scent.

“b…. but I thought you said I would m…. meet her tonight….” Kamber whispered, finding herself blushing beyond comprehension.

Edward chuckled and his breath against her neck made her flush even more, “I was hoping you would guess.”

Kamber gently but firmly pushed him away, “Like I would! The way you were going about it sounded like you were telling me as a friend!” A soft smile crossed Edward’s face, “I would never do that. Why would I tell you as a friend when I could live without a friend but living without you would be like hell?”

Kamber gasped softly at the intensity in Edward’s eyes. His bright amber eyes seemed to darken slightly but Kamber knew it wasn’t from hunger.

Before Kamber could even take this into consideration, Edward had leant forward again but this time he pressed his forehead against Kamber’s. He took in a deep breath and let it out shakily. Kamber felt her face heat up at their close proximity and instinctively placed her hands-on Edward’s chest but she froze… he was shaking!

Slowly Kamber pushed him away but kept her hands on his chest, looking up at him, startled. Edward looked like a person who had just woken up from sleep. His eyes were blurry and half open, he was breathing shakily.

“Edward?”

Slowly, Edward glided his hand across Kamber’s cheek till it was cupped at the crook of her neck. Gradually he pulled her head up to look at him as he dipped his head towards hers.

‘I’m dreaming right?’ Kamber thought to herself. ‘This is too perfect to be real. Is he going to kiss me? It’s not like I have anything against him kissing me but… is this even real? Will I wake up the moment I believe it?’

Kamber was snapped out of her thoughts by a pair of soft, ice cold lips that pressed against hers. For a moment, she stared wide eyed at Edward who was cupping her face in both hands, eyes closed and his body shaking. Why was he shaking? Was he nervous…. Upset…. Anxious… or happy?

Edward’s lips slowly left hers but just by a hair. His amber eyes fluttered open to look at Kamber a moment, blue meeting gold. ‘Oh, what the heck! Who cares if this isn’t real!?’ Kamber thought to herself.

Reaching up, she gripped Edward’s shoulders as Edward brought his lips back down onto hers, a little stronger this time. Kamber felt her knees go weak when Edward snaked a hand around her waist and pulled her flush against him. She could feel his rock-hard chest beneath her hands and his hair felt like down.

When the two pulled apart to give Kamber a chance to breathe (Edward didn’t need to but he knew she was partially mortal), Kamber was flushed and her eyes glossy just like Edward’s had been a moment ago.

Edward took a sharp intake of breath at the sight before him and would have kissed her again if a familiar, annoying voice hadn’t come into his hearing. Ugh that woman!

“Edward’s here too!?”

Rolling his eyes mentally, Edward kept one arm around Kamber’s waist but took her hand with his other, so it looked like they were dancing. Kamber seemed slightly puzzled by his change in mood but soon realized the source. Bella had appeared and was trotting over to them in heels that were so high that it was a miracle she hadn’t fallen over. She wore a skirt that barely covered her rear and her lacy blouse that barely covered half her stomach was almost see-through and Kamber could clearly make out her lacy black bra beneath it.

“Edward! There you are!” Bella squealed, having not noticed Edward’s partner yet. “I saw Alice and finally she told me that you were here too!” However, Bella’s brown eyes finally caught sight of Edward’s arm which was wrapped possessively around his dancing partner’s waist. She also took note that his other hand which gripped the girl’s free hand was clutching it close to his heart and she didn’t fail to notice that they were dancing closer together than just friends.

Bella’s eyes darkened in fury but plastered a fake smile on her face which honestly didn’t look different from the smile she had on a moment ago. Kamber could easily sense the girl’s contempt towards her just from the way her hands clenched and the vibe she was giving off. However, Kamber wondered if the girl’s enthusiasm at seeing Edward was really genuine because other than her eyes, nothing about the girl’s expression changed.

“What do you want Bella?” Edward demanded.

Bella rolled her eyes, “Oh don’t be so cold! I just wanted to tell you that Emmett was looking for you.” Edward frowned, “He knows where I am. What does he want?” “I don’t know,” Bella replied.

Edward didn’t budge for a while. He felt like there was something sketchy going on. If Emmett had been looking for him, he would have made sure either his thoughts were so loud that Edward would hear, or he would have found him personally. Why would Emmett send Bella of all people?

Bella crossed her arms and began to tap her foot impatiently, “If you don’t go to him, I’ll start a riot.” Edward sighed. Now he was sure that Bella was up to something but the last thing he wanted was a riot and Bella knew about his being a vampire. Who knows, she could go and spout it to everyone present! He glanced over at Kamber who seemed completely calm. She didn’t look nervous, upset or scared. He smiled to himself. She would no doubt handle herself against Bella.

“I’ll be right back,” he said, whispering it against Kamber’s ear.

The girl smiled shyly at him and nodded as Edward hurried off (as fast as he could without looking inhuman).

The moment he was gone, Bella walked onto the dance floor and approached Kamber. She looked the girl up and down. She had to admit, Kamber was gorgeous. However, there was something inhuman about her, making Bella think she was a vampire… except the fact that her eyes were blue, she was breathing and had color in her cheeks. Was she a werewolf? No, too fair for that and Edward would steer clear of wolves anyway.

“So, you and Edward are a thing huh?” she asked, brushing a lock of hair off her shoulders in a flaunty manner.

Kamber flushed pink and ducked her head. Bella glared but named to keep the growl muted. Of course, Edward found an innocent, sweet girl who got shy when talking about guys! Geez! Is he that attracted to weak women?

“I’m guessing you probably did it then,” Bella remarked, turning around and waving her hips. For a moment, Kamber thought she was just either doing it to be lazy, but the truth was that Bella caught sight of a rather attractive boy nearby.

“Did what?” Kamber asked, slightly lost.

Bella snorted, “Seriously? You haven’t? You would know what I meant if you did.” Kamber frowned, “You mean…. Consummation?”

Bella stifled a laugh, but it came out as a rather rude snort, “Consummation? That’s what you call it?” “That is what it is called after all,” Kamber replied, sensing that this wasn’t meant to be a pleasant conversation, “Or you could call it intercourse…or coitus…. Anatomy of reproduction….”

“Are you a school nerd or something?” Bella interrupted, frowning.

Kamber shook her head, “No. That’s what you were referring to right?”

“Just say it,” Bella remarked, getting rather fed up with Kamber’s form of avoiding the question, “You have no sex appeal.” Right away, something snapped in Kamber’s mind. It wasn’t the fact that Bella said she had no sex appeal but rather the matter of what Bella was referring to. Kamber had always been rather touchy on the subject especially since she was still a virgin and had promised herself (and her brothers) that she would remain so until after marriage. Now, the first thing that this girl asked about her and Edward’s relationship was whether or not they had been intimate!

“That has nothing to do with it,” Kamber replied.

“Of course, it does!” Bella snorted. “If you have no sex appeal, the chance of the person marrying you is really low and the chance of you … as you put it “consummating” your relationship is even lower.” Kamber chuckled, “For the record, I have no interest in consummating our relationship.” That seemed to get all of Bella’s attention. The girl spun around and stared wide eyed at her, “What? Have you lost your brains? That is the point of dating.” “First off,” Kamber objected, “It is not. The goal of dating is getting to know your partner better and possibly if he turns out to be the right one, end up marrying said partner. Secondly, I have no interest in consummating our relationship because the only consummation I’m interested in is marriage.” “Oh marriage again!” Bella groaned, “why does everyone think that marriage is so wonderful! What happens when you get tired of your spouse hm? You have to go through the whole thing of divorce and then if you get pregnant, you have to worry about the kids and raising them. Besides that, when you divorce, people find you less enticing because you’ve been married already.” Kamber raised her eyebrows and smirked, “And I wondered why Edward broke up with you.” “WHAT!?” Bella yelled, half hearing the girl and half thinking she misheard.

“I’m going to find Edward,” Kamber replied, “Excuse me.” With that, Kamber left the dance floor, rather pleased in how the conversation had ended.

******************

“She what!?” Edward cried.

Kamber had refused to tell him what Bella had talked to her about until they got home. That way, if Edward reacted the way she expected, then Bella would be a good distance away. Kamber preferred to not be the reason that Edward went and mauled someone.

“Yeah?” Kamber remarked.

They had returned from the party and after taking a nice long shower to free her hair of hair spray and her face of makeup, Kamber had dressed in a pair of pale blue pajamas and was seated cross-legged on the couch in Edward’s room, pulling on fluffy white socks.

Edward began pacing back and forth, running his fingers through his hair. Occasionally he would punch a nearby wall but because the house was built to house a houseful of vampires, it didn’t do any damage.

“I don’t even understand why I dated her in the first place!” Edward huffed angrily.

Kamber finished pulling her other sock on and began to brush her damp hair, “It’s called not knowing the real person. Everyone has two sides and until you get to know the person really well, you won’t know some things about the person. There was a girl I met several decades ago who I thought was kind of harsh and cruel… but after I got to know her, I realized the real her was really a good person… you just had to get to know her first.” “Well that’s the complete opposite of Bella,” Edward huffed angrily, “I thought she was a nice girl and she turned out to be someone seeking popularity and pleasure. The moment I refused to become overly intimate, she lost interest in me and began to cheat behind my back. I just don’t understand why people cheat in the first place. It’s just so wrong.”

Kamber smiled and as Edward paced past her again, she reached out and grabbed his hand. Edward stopped and looked down at her. She smiled up at him with love shining in her eyes.

“I don’t understand it either, especially when the person who got cheated on was you.” Edward didn’t stop for a second and knelt down on the floor in front of Kamber. He laid his head in her lap and wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her stomach against his cheek.

“What did I do to deserve you?” he whispered into her lap.

Kamber chuckled softly as she ran her fingers through his hair, “You saved me from a fall.” Edward snorted, “Like that would be enough.” The girl reached down and lifted Edward’s head, so he was looking up at her. Bending down, she placed a soft kiss on his forehead, “You were just you.”

Edward placed his hands over the girl’s which were still holding his face and turning his head, he planted a soft kiss on her palm. He got to his feet and plopped down on the couch behind Kamber before taking the brush from her hand.

“Let me do it.” Kamber sat still as Edward began to brush her hair. She was surprised at how well he did it. Even with untangling the tangles, he didn’t break any of her hair. Kamber smiled, he probably got lessons from Alice.

When he finished, Edward wrapped his arms around Kamber from behind and nuzzled his nose into her damp hair, breathing in her fresh scent. It filled his breathing and swallowed him in.

“Honestly, I’m glad you told Bella what you did,” he whispered.

Kamber tilted her head, “What do you mean?” “How you said that you preferred to wait till marriage,” Edward whispered, “I would never touch you till then anyway.” “Because if we ever got married, it would be the duty of a married couple?” Kamber asked, suddenly wondering if Bella had been right about Edward having no attraction towards Kamber in that way.

Edward chuckled and hugged her tighter till she was seated in his lap, “No. because I want to cherish you. You are the kindest, sweetest, most pure person I have ever met. You have lived for hundreds of years and have never done it. I promise to show that kind of restraint toward you until we are married.” “Well for the record, I have never found anyone attractive…… wait…. Did you say ‘until we are married?’ Why are you saying it like it’s possible?”

“It’s not possible?” Edward asked, turning the girl around so she could face him.

Kamber began to nervously mess with the hem of her pajama shirt, “Well…. It’s possible but…. I mean…. Well…. We’re not even…. I mean…. I don’t know….” The girl never got the chance to finish for Edward had pushed her back onto her back and had smashed his lips against hers. When he pulled away, the girl was staring at him shocked.

“I know what you’re trying to say,” he whispered. “We haven’t even talked about where we are at now. In that case, I’ll take it slow… and in order.”

“Huh?”

Edward got back up and taking Kamber’s hands, pulled her to her feet. The girl looked up at the young vampire quizzically, not sure what was going on. Edward smiled down at her and gently placed both his hands behind her ears, drawing her head up to look at him, pressing his forehead to hers.

“Kamber Vicasi… will you be my girlfriend?”

************

“Do you need anything else?” Alice asked.

Kamber stared at the pixie girl in disbelief, “Alice, we’re going to be lying on the floor, shoulder to shoulder (cuz there’s so many of us) and practically in a coma. No, I don’t need a toothbrush, paste, hairbrush, makeup and a clean outfit!” “But what about when you wake up!?” Alice whined, “It’s almost like when you wake up from your human to vampire transformation!” “I wouldn’t know because I never had a transformation,” Kamber replied, “But Glynn requested we all wear these.” Alice considered the outfit Kamber was wearing. She wore jean shorts and a white jersey with the number 3 on the back and the name: Vicasi between her shoulder blades. Each of the Vicasi kids had one, with their number on it.

“Fine but let me see that jersey,” Alice said.

“What are you doing?”

“Giving it a makeover.” When Alice stepped back, she had tied the front hem of the long jersey into a knot so that it wasn’t so long and it revealed a small sliver of Kamber’s stomach, “So you don’t overheat!”

Kamber sighed, “Fine. But that’s it!” Alice giggled and clapped her hands, “Great. Now go to Edward’s. He wants to give you a personal goodbye before my dad puts you all to sleep.”

“Don’t say it like that,” Kamber groaned, “It sounds like he’s going to euthanize us!”

Alice chuckled and shooed the girl out of the room. Kamber skipped up the stairs and headed to Edward’s room. When she stepped inside, she found Edward standing by his window, hands in his pockets and his back to Kamber.

“Edward? What’s wrong?” “Do you think everything will go according to plan?” he asked.

The girl chuckled and walked into the room, “Nah. There is always something that doesn’t go exact but that doesn’t mean it will be something bad.” “Are you scared?” he asked next, his back still to her.

Kamber shook her head, “No.” Sighing, Edward turned around and the girl realized that his face was even paler than usual. Was he scared?

“Then I’ll try not to be.”

Kamber crossed the room in four strides and wrapped her arms around Edward’s neck, burrowing her face in his neck. Edward immediately hugged her back, clutching her head to his chest.

“Kam, if you had something to look forward to while you’re asleep, do you think it would go better?” he whispered.

Kamber chuckled, “I doubt that I’ll even dream while I’m asleep, but I have a feeling it would help. Why?” “Cuz I was going to give you something to look forward to…. But I’m not sure if you would find it something to look forward to or dread.”

“Whatever it is, I’m sure it’s great,” Kamber said, smiling up at him.

Edward sighed, “Okay then…. I’ll just say it….”

He took Kamber’s hand into his before dropping something into her palm and then closing her fingers over it. Kamber slowly retracted her hand and opened it to look at what Edward had given her. There, in her palm was a ring!

“Kamber Vicasi,” Edward whispered, “Will you marry me?”

______________

Kamber was sure either she died and went to heaven… or she was dreaming. Edward Cullen, the boy she had grown to love, was asking her to marry him!?!!?!?!?!?!?!?!?! WHAT!??!?!?!?!

Kamber was snapped out of her words when she felt Edward’s hands shift from the back of her neck to her cheeks where his thumbs began to slowly caress her cheeks. The girl’s blue eyes flitted up to Edward’s golden ones. Geez. She wasn’t dreaming!

Suddenly, as reality began to dawn on the girl, she lifted her hands and held them over her mouth. One thing she hated about being a hybrid was that she developed the ability to cry and blush from her mother. Of all times, why did she have to start crying now. Edward took a step back in shock at the sight of tears streaming down her cheeks before grasping her upper arms. “Kamber? No no no. Kam, I didn’t mean to make you upset… please don’t cry!” he cried desperately.

Kamber slowly shook her head and lifted her eyes to look at the boy who had grown so desperate that he was biting his lip to the point where it was bleeding, “I’m not upset…. I’m happy!” For a moment, it took Edward’s brain to catch up with reality before his eyes widened and a huge grin spread across his face.

“Did you really mean it?” Kamber whispered, not meeting his eyes.

“Of course, I did,” Edward whispered, running his fingers through her loose red hair, “I wouldn’t joke about something like that.” “Then…” Kamber whispered, slowly looking up at Edward, “I guess I have something to look forward to when I wake up.” Edward froze for a moment, trying to read between the lines when finally Kamber chuckled at him and wrapping her arms around his neck, kissed him.

The vampire didn’t waste a second and wrapped his arms around her waist, lifting her off her feet. Kamber wrapped her legs around his waist and buried her fingers in his hair, pulling his face impossibly closer to hers. She felt her back make contact with the wall as Edward pressed her hard against the wall, pushing their bodies flush against each other.

Kamber began to moan as Edward pushed all the air out of her body and didn’t let her breathe. Finally, they parted and Kamber took in a deep breath, trying to catch up with her heartbeat.

“Sorry,” Edward whispered, “I’m just so happy.” Kamber smiled and pecked his lips softly as he set her down on her feet, “It’s okay… but I kinda need to get downstairs. Your dad wants to give us the drug before noon.” Edward nodded and planted a kiss on her forehead before heading downstairs with her. Neither of them said a word about the conversation that had just taken place, and no one seemed to suspect anything so they didn’t say a word. Better to let them find out after the apocalypse.

One by one, the Vicasi kids laid down on either a blanket that had been laid on the floor or (in the little kids’ case) on the couch. As each of them laid down, Carlisle gave them the drug as either a pill or a liquid and almost immediately they fell asleep. Finally, it was Kamber’s turn.

She laid down on her folded blanket which was between Vince and Glynn who were both halfway asleep. She was about to lay down when Edward hugged her from behind and planted a soft kiss on her neck.

“I love you,” he whispered.

Kamber smiled and hugged his arms to her chest, “I love you too.” With that, the girl got down and laid on her back between her brothers. Carlisle handed her the pill and she drank it. Laying back, she looked up at the ceiling and took both Vince and Glynn’s hands in hers, gripping them tightly. With that, she fell asleep.

***********

“They’re fine,” Carlisle whispered.

Edward nodded but didn’t lift his head. After the kids had all been given the pill, they had been moved to more comfortable areas. The little kids had been placed in the bedrooms while the older kids were placed on the couches. Edward was presently sitting on the end of the couch where Kamber lay.

The girl lay on her side, her legs slightly drawn up close to her, her head resting against the arm of the couch. A peaceful but blank look was on her face and every so often her eyelashes would flutter, and she would let out a sigh, a gasp or sometimes a moan of pain.

“Can she feel the pain?” Edward whispered.

Carlisle smiled as he checked Vince and Glynn’s pulses, “No, but they might dream it.”

“They’ll have dreams of pain?” Edward asked.

Carlisle nodded, “We can only do so much. At least they aren’t feeling it.” Edward nodded, knowing that his father was doing everything he could.

He glanced up away from Kamber to see Jasper and Alice sitting on the stone slab in front of the fireplace. Alice was reading while Jasper was rubbing her arm, reading over her shoulder.

Rose and Emmett were playing cards at the kitchen counter while Esme sat on the couch next to Antigone.

Mr. and Mrs. Vicasi were seated on a couch next to each other. Mrs. Vicasi was holding the baby in her arms, leaning her head against her husband’s shoulder, her eyes closed in relaxing sleep.

Edward looked back at Kamber when the girl twitched and let out a soft groan of pain, her forehead wrinkling in pain. Edward bit his lip and ran his knuckles across her hand. It felt so lifeless…. Empty.

Letting out a groan of frustration, he got up from the couch and rushed across the room to the piano. Lifting the lid, he sat down and began to press a few keys, trying to think of what to play.

Suddenly, a thought jumped into his mind and smiling softly, he began to play A Thousand Years by Christina Perri.

Edward’s mind was drawn back to almost a week ago… a few days after the party.

Flashback start

Edward was laying on his bed, one hand behind his head. Kamber was laying with him, her head resting on his stomach, both of them looking up at the ceiling. Kamber had one hand nestled in Edward’s thick hair, gently stroking it while her other was gripping his free hand.

Classical music was playing from Edward’s speaker and the sounds of Alice, Emmett, Jasper and Rose playing with the kids outside could be heard.

“Edward?” Kamber whispered. “Do you play an instrument?”

Edward smiled, “Yeah, piano. Why?”

Kamber sat up and turned to look at him, “Really? Could you play for me?”

Edward chuckled and shook his head, “No chance. I don’t play for an audience.” “But it’s just me,” Kamber pointed out, putting on a pouting look.

“That’s even more embarrassing,” Edward pointed out. “I would die if I mess up.” Kamber raised an eyebrow, “That is over exaggeration considering that vampires cannot get sick! Come on!”

Edward didn’t budge and finally, Kamber rested her chin on Edward’s chest, placing her folded hands under her chin and giving him her best puppy eyes. Edward groaned. Why did this girl have to be so cute!?

“FINE!” he huffed.

Kamber’s face lit up in a smile and she jumped off the bed, “Yay! Come on!” Kamber practically dragged Edward downstairs to where the piano was. When he finally sat down and pulled back the lid, he looked at her, “What do you want me to play?”

Kamber grabbed the stack of music which was precisely organized in a folder thanks to Esme. The girl scanned over the titles before she grabbed one and pulled it out. Placing it on the piano. A Thousand Years.

“I’ll play it, only if you sing,” Edward remarked.

The girl smiled, “Okay.” The boy was half expecting her to object but instead, Kamber smiled at him and leant her arms on the piano, watching his face steadily.

Edward began to play and when the intro was over, Kamber joined in. It was a miracle that Edward was able to keep playing for the sound of the girl’s voice that filled the house was so soft and light it made his head swim. It was like a toxin!

Heart beats fast Colors and promises How to be brave? How can I love when I'm afraid to fall? But watching you stand alone All of my doubt suddenly goes away somehow One step closer I have died every day waiting for you Darling, don't be afraid I have loved you For a thousand years I'll love you for a thousand more Time stands still

Beauty in all she is

I will be brave I will not let anything take away What's standing in front of me Every breath Every hour has come to this One step closer I have died every day waiting for you

Darling, don't be afraid I have loved you For a thousand years I'll love you for a thousand more And all along I believed I would find you Time has brought your heart to me I have loved you for a thousand years I'll love you for a thousand more One step closer

One step closer

I have died every day waiting for you Darling don't be afraid I have loved you For a thousand years I'll love you for a thousand more And all along I believed I would find you Time has brought your heart to me I have loved you for a thousand years I'll love you for a thousand more

When she finished, the two realized that the rest of the Cullens and Vicasi’s had appeared in the doorway and were listening in. After giving the two a round of applause, they all rushed back outside to their games and what not, leaving the two alone again.

Kamber let out a deep breath and stood up straight, looking at Edward. The boy was staring at her with wide eyes, his mouth slightly agape… his eyes had turned a slightly darker shade of amber.

“Was…. There a particular reason you chose that song?” He asked, his voice barely in a whisper and his voice threatening to break.

Kamber smiled and slowly slid the lid back onto the piano, “Maybe…. maybe I chose it because it’s what I feel like… what I feel like whenever I see you…. hear your voice…. Feel you…..whenever my heart starts beating fast whenever you enter the room…” The girl would have said more but didn’t get a chance to for Edward rushed around the piano and grabbing the girl by the waist, slammed her against the nearest wall, crushing her body between his and the wall.

His lips were on hers even before Kamber hit the wall. She moaned when Edward grabbed her waist and pressed his hips hard against hers. She felt like her head was going to melt with how fervently and desperately he kissed her… as if he was preparing to die…. Or as if she had just said the best thing in the world.

Finally, Edward let her lips go and Kamber gasped, not from lack of breath (that was part of it) but also from how flushed her face had become and how hot her body was feeling. Edward looked into her eyes for only a second before he latched his lips onto her neck and dragged them across her jaw and towards her collar bone.

Kamber let out a whimper when his cold lips touched her sweet spot and Edward froze. Kamber could feel him smile against her skin before he gently placed a kiss there before touching it with his icy cold tongue.

“Edward,” Kamber gasped, tangling her hands into his hair. “I….”

“Sh baby,” Edward whispered, planting another kiss on her neck before lifting his face to look at her. Kamber’s eyes had glazed over and were darkening just like his were. Her face was still flushed, and her eyes were half lidded, her mouth open as she panted to catch her breath. She had never looked more beautiful.

Edward reached down and grabbing one of her thighs, lifted it up to wrap around his waist and he firmly pressed his leg between her thighs, earning a gasp from the girl. He grasped her face gently between his hands, running his cold fingers over her warm, smooth cheeks.

“Why do you have to be so beautiful?” he whispered before gently placing his lips on her in a chaste, loving kiss.

That kiss was cut short by the return of Emmett and Rose. Edward and Kamber separated hastily but they couldn’t cover up their darkened eyes and flushed faces. Emmett gave the two the smuggest ‘I told you so and so ship it’ look while Rose discreetly gave her brother a thumbs up.

When the two were gone, Edward looked over at Kamber who had managed to calm herself down and was smoothing her hair out of her eyes. The girl looked over at him and her cheeks tinted pink.

“Next time you ask me to play a song, remind me to do it when no one is home,” he replied, his voice deep and husky.

End of Flashback

Edward sighed as he reached the last note. He opened his eyes only to realize that everyone (who wasn’t in a drugged sleep) was staring at him. Edward frowned, not sure what was going on when he suddenly guessed what he couldn’t see. His eyes had darkened while he was playing, his face getting slightly flushed and his hands had begun to shake… but not in the anxious, nervous kind of shaking.

“You okay bro?” Jasper asked.

Emmett just smirked, “Oh believe me, he was in heaven!”

Edward lowered his eyebrows at his brother which caused Emmett to squirm uncomfortably. The others were just about to ask what Emmett was referring to when the phone rang. Carlisle got up and picked it up, answering. There was a long silence during which no one spoke out of respect to whoever was on the phone…. But soon Carlisle’s face went even more pale than pale and he set the phone down.

“What’s wrong Carlisle?” Mr. Vicasi inquired.

The man slowly lifted his eyes and looked over at his family before landing on Edward, “We solved you and Kamber’s mystery. Jason Bounds was found.” “What do you mean?” Edward asked, “He was murdered. They found his body, it’s at the lab right now.” Carlisle shook his head, “No it’s not. The scientists were going to test his body, but they found the container busted and destroyed…. two hours later there were reports of someone seeing Jason Bounds walking down the streets of Forks… still dressed in the white hospital gown.” “Who was that on the phone then?” Jasper inquired.

“Charlie Swan. He says that he just got a call from the Blacks. One of the pack was attacked by Jason Bounds in the woods…. The wolf who got hurt said that he wasn’t acting human.” “Something happened to him,” Mr. Vicasi whispered, “That must explain his death. Something inhuman got to him.”

“But what?” Rose demanded.

“We’ll find out soon enough,” Alice said, her face going pale, “Jason Bounds is coming here…. He’s here for Edward.”

#Edward Cullen x oc #Edward cullen #twilight

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8Chan - Moving the Goalposts and the Streisand Effect

The objective is "division,"deflection, distraction. Know this. Moving the goalposts: A common metaphor for moving the focus of an argument to another position (usually after being found out). I contend that MSM and their digital arms are no longer reporters, are not sources of truth, neither are they impartial observers. Those who use media channels to beat them to "real" information" are an existential threat to them. The Streisand Effect: "The Streisand effect is a phenomenon whereby an attempt to hide, remove, or censor a piece of information has the unintended consequence of publicizing the information more widely, usually facilitated by the Internet. It is an example of psychological reactance, wherein once people are aware that some information is being kept from them, their motivation to access and spread it is increased."https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Streisand_effect Reactance is an unpleasant motivational arousal (reaction) to offers, persons, rules, or regulations that threaten or eliminate specific behavioral freedoms. Reactance occurs when a person feels that someone or something is taking away their choices or limiting the range of alternatives. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reactance_(psychology) They want to control the outcomes. They need time to "setup" their bullshit. That is their key vulnerability. They are slow and cannot react to events as they occur. that is why they have talking points (to regroup around). That is why you see the mismatch in what they say and what is actually occurring in real time. The only way to stop this is to ban "free speech"or close access to those you want to hide. This has happened and is happening, ...deplatforming, censorship, shadowbanning, check Project Veritas for more ...https://twitter.com/JamesOKeefeIII

A couple of important things, MSM wants to keep the charade moving along: paper of record, "reporter,"source, editor, publisher, story, news, etc., are all important terms. Ever heard of operation mockingbird? What is it, why does it exist? In recent days they started with the idea that Orange Man (a person of color) was "responsible" for the two public mass shootings through his "racist" speech. Without proof these entities labelled this Orange Man a "white" supremacist moving the goalpost into the KKK zone (and we all know who they are, you clowns). No proof of anything, just rollin along with their nonsense. Take a look Mr. Lemon giving a stellar rendition below... Or Mr. Best here in high falsetto... Let's begin a short walk through recent events. I published this a few days ago: "Every media outlet jumping up and down pointing the finger at one man. Orange man bad." I alleged that if we dug deeper than the headline we'd find out things are quite different to the headline. 180° different, but that when this information would come to light, they'd hide it and shift focus. They did, moving away as quickly as possible from the people killed in Dayton, keeping it political and divisive, constantly shape-shifting, blaming and labeling. Initial post - http://www.ad360.co/we-knew Topics covered: more than 3-4 shooters (El Paso) - still to be effectively denied? Antifa meetup to be held in El Paso - they flip flopped on this one Shooter's social media pages changed - nobody interested Shooter's father, therapy and C_A mind control - nobody interested 8Chan as the source of the "manifesto" - the first platform to be de-platformed! Was this what they were actually after? Kill innocents to stop the flow of information. D politicians all on message, Twitter shills on message, all marching in lockstep too early. Now you can't walk it back. Time is up. The ruse has been uncovered. Remember the clock is running down. Too many people know, they simply don't have the ability to keep covering their tracks. This one will be links to other people's work... This one is excellent, it efficiently digs into the "alleged" mind control angle - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G3BzCcXWBQs

You'll see how Bryan Crusius (father of "alleged shooter") is connected to Colin Ross (Spook) via Timberlawn, both interested in "therapy." Ross also appears to be able to skip out court appearances in both Canada and the US. "My previous post: A guy travels 600 miles to shoot up a Walmart. Odd wouldn't you think? Wears ear defenders and changes his pants half way through? Has all the classic false flag attributes; father a therapist (check) with CIA connections, white loner who suddenly goes online an builds a weak presence (check), drops a "manifesto" note beforehand (very a la mode), changing his social media profiles and political affiliation while in the act of committing murder or while in police custody? witness say three to four people dressed in black? Does anybody fact check these people? Is anything held up to scrutiny?"

when I say alleged shooter above please not that the MO in most of these false flags is to have the "shooter" as a patsy. If you think about it, the ony use for this person is to be so out of it they cannot produce a coherent recollection of what happened. If, as stated by multiple witnesses, there were more shooters involved then the patsy (in El Paso) is a deflection device. These guys are pawns too (that makes it a bit sick). There is also the fact that this shooter was not adept with firearms and managed to kill 20 people with a 30 round mag in an AK 47. Not the most easy thing to do, as some have noted. https://nypost.com/2019/08/05/el-paso-shooter-went-to-walmart-because-he-was-hungry-authorities This one by the same producer develops more background on the Dayton shooter - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kkH4D0ltwg0

We know already that the Dayton shooter was left leaning, a bit sick and twisted and had nothing to do with Trump (strange he picked the same weekend as the El Paso shooter to do his work - coincidence, surely, surely). We know already that the Dayton shooter was left leaning, a bit sick and twisted and had nothing to do with Trump (strange he picked the same weekend as the El Paso shooter to do his work - coincidence, surely, surely). Gilroy shooter - https://twitter.com/MrAndyNgo/status/1158823322454331392 Further push for violence in Portland on 17th - https://twitter.com/MrAndyNgo/status/1158590052374462464 This happened in Springfield (Aug 8th): https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2019/08/exclusive-photos-armed-man-with-rifle-handgun-100-rounds-of-ammo-and-body-armor-stopped-and-arrested-by-firefighter-outside-springfield-mo-walmart

Note the clothing choices, note the location, note the timing; lot's of coincidences? Why is Walmart important? https://www.dhs.gov/blog/2010/12/06/dhs-and-walmart-partners-promoting-if-you-see-something-say-something-campaign

"Earlier this month (2011), DHS unveiled a new terror alert system that will hijack social networking sites as one way of informing people of terrorist threat updates. “The new, two-tiered system will provide alerts that are more specific to the threat and even recommend certain actions or suggest that people look for specific suspicious behavior, she said. They also may be limited to a particular audience — such as law enforcement — rather than broadcast to the general public, and also will have a specified end date,” reported Information Week Government. In December, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano announced the expansion of the Department’s national “If You See Something, Say Something” campaign to hundreds of Walmart stores across the country — launching a new partnership between DHS and Walmart to help the American public play an active role in informing on each other. Thousands of Wamart stores will have telescreens pumping out government propaganda." https://www.globalresearch.ca/obama-launches-total-takeover-of-media-system/23150 How were police so quick to the scene in Dayton and in such numbers? This quote is interesting: "Think about what connecting Alex Jones to the Lt. Gov means and add "baselessly" in terms of propaganda (minus plus minus equals plus) Toxic conspiracy theorist Alex Jones and Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick both attempted to baselessly connect a mass shooting that targeted Latinos to upcoming anti-facism protests. " https://www.mediamatters.org/alex-jones/tx-lt-gov-dan-patrick-nearly-indistinguishable-alex-jones-el-paso-white-nationalist-mass You might note that other outlets went on the offensive against what the called "right wing fake news" (links in my previous post). Washington Post, Bezos and the C_A, all full speed ahead against something which "doesn't exist?"

Add that post to these posts...

And this (https://twitter.com/JuliansRum/status/1158919312779952130)

Thirteen thousand people respond? C'mon. I know you're not that stupid. Orange Man Good (OMG). They're in panic. Why are they in panic... This week there were plenty of reasons to change the news cycle; Epstein ( Wexner creating distance), Franklin Square FD wanting to reopen 911, Nunes being full given access, Coates dropping out as NSI Director, declass coming, Mueller, Cummings and Baltimore under the spotlight (caught in a sting, reportedly), Congresswoman Omar (my brother's keeper), Nadler (Lord Farquuad), Schiff (c'mon, this guy?), Pelosi (district in ruins, homeless issues, water, etc.) talking about continuing to go after Trump https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1155315616171155456, Wiener's laptop and those dead NY cops, Uranium , Wikileaks gets right to publish, Bruce Ohr , Capital One and Amazon, Tulsi Gabbard getting the "treatment," Democratic Debate Debacle, Demicrap Booker wants to shut Trump rallies down :), Big Tech EO https://twitter.com/katierogers/status/1159192574650998794, and there is more ...it gets so much worse. Wouldn't you be squealing like a trapped rat too? Read the full article

#Control #Cover #Effect #Goalpost #Movement #Narrative #Sources #Stories #Timeline #Tools #White

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hersheygrace · 7 years

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Seal of Dark Fate

CHAPTER 3: Imprinted Secrets

Genre: Fantasy / Mystery / Romance / Action

Characters: OC / BTS / GOT7 / EXO

Word Count: 5,443

Summary: Min Haeyoon had no idea that a simple trip to the fortune-teller would lead her into meeting a mysterious boy and discovering that she was destined for something that will require her to choose between light and dark. And along the way, she will realize that the people she knew and the life she led so far were not what she thought them to be.

[1] [2] [3] [4]

RIGHT AFTER THE classes ended, the siblings went straight home to find their house empty which was pretty much a normal thing around those times. Their father, who is a renowned lawyer, usually gets home after eight. While their mother, who is a university professor, always gets home after six and seeing as she still have to run some errands for Jungkook’s high school admission, they expected her to be home later than usual with the boy.

Already changed into more comfortable clothes, Haeyoon went up to her brother’s room to ask for help on her English assignment. Although Yoongi was quite for known for his lethargic ways, the boy is still a ‘smexy’ or smart-and-sexy brained as he would like to put it. “Yoongi?” she called when she saw the boy lounging on his bed while fiddling with his phone.

“Yeah?” he looked up from his bed, hair messy and eyes sleepy.

She flopped down beside him on his bed with books on hand. “Can you help me with English, please?” The boy chuckled at his sister’s cuteness before shifting into a sitting position and opening one of her books.

After a few minutes of studying the questions, he turned at Haeyoon with furrowed eyebrows, “Okay, I know I’m smart and all but I’m not that kick-ass when it comes to English compared to Namjoon so…I think we’ll be needing a little help from Mr. Webster.” He smiled sheepishly at the girl, making her giggle.

“Alright, I get it,” she said laughingly as she got up from the bed. “I think there’s a dictionary in dad’s study.” She headed downstairs and opened the dark wooden door next to the stairwell. It was never locked since it also functions as the family’s mini library. The girl walked up to the book shelf and scanned for the dictionary which she found almost immediately. She was about to leave the room when something shiny on their father’s study table caught her eyes. She turned and saw piles of folder neatly stacked on the mahogany table but what got her curious was the black book partly hidden by some flyers. Peering closer, she saw that the shiny thing she saw were actually tiny different colored gems glinting under the sunlight from the glass window. The gems were attached to the corner of the book and when she shoved the flyers aside, she realized that the whole surface of the five-inch thick book was adorned with jewels to perfection. The book was strange and obviously very old but still in a good condition. Her mouth parted in awe when her eyes landed to the embossed emblem on the middle of the book, surrounded by the seemingly precious stones. It was shaped like an ‘L’ with other swirly intricate designs twirling around it and the girl wasn’t so sure how to explain it but she knows that it was really beautiful and it was definitely made out of pure gold. It was like a crest that one usually see in some old fairytale books, like a crest that represents a family, group or kingdom.

“Wow…” was all she managed to say before her hands, as if having a mind of their own, carefully flipped the cover of the old book open. The first page, which shows a map, was already yellowish on the edges and running a finger over it, the girl knew that it wasn’t just a normal piece of paper. The second and third pages also had a map drawn across it with words and labels that Haeyoon was not familiar with but one word caught her attention. “Lucere,” she breathed as she remembered the word being mentioned by her parents last night. Flipping through the pages, she realized that she can understand the words written on the next pages and when she saw something written about The Guardians and more about Lucere, she rushed upstairs to her brother.

“Yoongi, check this out,” she uttered breathlessly as she cautiously placed the heavy book on the bed before sitting down beside the brown-haired boy. “I saw this on dad’s study table and I guess this could answer our questions.”

“No shit,” he said incredulously before turning his full attention towards the old book. They sat there in total silence as they read the book together. They can’t bring themselves to believe on what was being revealed to them. “Is this book for real? Sorcerers? Kingdom of Lucere? Fuck this shit…” Yoongi grumbled in disbelief but still continued reading while Haeyoon silently tried to absorb the bizarre information. However, they were interrupted when they heard their mother’s voice from downstairs. Another string of profanities left the boy’s mouth as they were both frozen staring at each other, the black book between them. “I’ll distract mom while you return the book,” Yoongi said in panic as they both shot up from the bed and darted downstairs.

Luckily, their mother was busy putting some groceries in the kitchen making it easy for Haeyoon to slip the book back in the study room. She hoped that her father won’t hide it anywhere because they’re not yet done reading. When she went out of the room, she saw Yoongi coming out of the kitchen and heading towards the living room where Jungkook was quietly sitting.

“Hi, mom!” she greeted enthusiastically as she bounced towards the kitchen. “What’s for dinner?” Her mother said something like pasta but her mind was actually drifting towards the book again.

“Jungkook will start next week,” her mother informed her with a smile and upon the mention of the boy’s name, she immediately paid attention.

“Start what?” she asked.

“Going to high school,” the woman replied. “I didn’t know that that kid was a genius. He aced all the tests and his IQ was above normal.”

“Really?” asked Haeyoon skeptically because their encounter that morning sure proved otherwise but then she realized that he did know the dictionary meaning of sex—like literally. “Good for him, I guess.”

“But I would like you to keep an eye on him, dear,” her mother faced her with a sudden serious expression. “Watch over him and guide him.”

Though quite weirded-out by her mother’s request, Haeyoon didn’t show it and just shrugged instead. “Sure, no problem.”

THAT NIGHT, HAEYOON can’t fall asleep. She kept tossing and turning in her bed but it looked like sand man won’t do his job anytime soon. She glanced at her alarm clock and it read fifteen to ten. Her mind was so clouded with many thoughts swimming in her mind such as the black book; their parents’ odd acts lately, and of course, her new classmate—Do Kyungsoo. She really found the new transfer strange and she can’t help but admit that she was quite crept out by his constant stares at her. It was like he wanted to say something but always ended up gazing at her with that unreadable expression on his face. It’s bad enough that he was placed next to her by the teacher because it became so awkward but what’s worse is that she could feel his intense stare like he’s trying to bore holes through her skull. There came a point that she asked him if he needed anything or wanted to say something but he just blushed and shook his head. But Haeyoon have to give it to him though, he was really cute but really weird, too.

A series of patterned knock on her door pulled her out of her stupor. She knew it was Yoongi so she said, “Come in.”

“Hey,” her brother flopped down on her bed, already on his pj’s, a white v-neck shirt and blue cotton pants. “Can’t sleep, too, huh?”

She rested her back against the headboard while clutching a pillow to her chest. “With all the things happening, it’s quite hard.” There was a minute of silence before Yoongi spoke again.

“So, Lucere is a kingdom,” he mused but Haeyoon can still hear doubt in his tone. “And it is a place for…sorcerers.”

She turned to see him staring hard at his lap, like he was in deep thought. “And don’t forget The Guardians who were created to protect the kingdom.” Haeyoon backtracked to the things they read from the book, they weren’t even half way through it when they had to stop and so far, all that they know is that Lucere was a magical kingdom. “It reminds me of Harry Potter.”

“Do you think it’s true? That there is such a place and—I mean, come on, magic? Who believes in freaking magic?” the boy rambled, running a hand through his already messy hair.

“I do,” Haeyoon said softly. “Yoongi, I think I saw it first hand.” Her brother turned to look incredulously at her but she continued. “When Mrs. Jeon died...in my arms…I saw the mark on her hand glow in bright blue before disappearing into thin air.”

“No…freaking way.”

“I know what I saw,” she insisted, turning her whole body so that she’s faced to her brother now. “Then when I touched her son’s hand for the first time…the same mark appeared on my wrist.” She extended her wrist to her brother, palm facing up, to show the black mark. Yoongi gasp as he held his sister’s hand and peered closely at her wrist. “It just appeared there, glowed in blue for a while then became black…like magic.”

“What the hell—why didn’t you tell me earlier?!” the boy looked at her with wide worried eyes.

“I kind of forgot, besides, it all happened just yesterday,” she replied, gently pulling her hand back. “By the way, Jungkook also had a mark like this.”

“What?!” Yoongi exclaimed. “How?!”

“I don’t have any idea, too. But I’m pretty sure that he had it for a long time now.” she shrugged, leaning back at the headboard.

“Should we ask him?” he suddenly said. “Maybe he knows something.”

“I think you’re right,” with that said, they both went towards the next room. The door was left ajar and Haeyoon assumed that he’s still not that comfortable with his new surroundings. “Hey, Jungkook,” she gently called so as not to surprise him. He was sitting on top of his bed with his knees drawn up against his chest, curling like a lost little child. But when he heard her soft voice, he perked up and his face broke out into a happy relieved expression.

She walked into the room with her brother before sitting on the edge of Jungkook’s bed. “How are you feeling?”

“I was…scared but not anymore,” then he met her in the eye before his handsome face broke out into the first smile Heayoon ever saw on him, clearly letting her know that her presence was enough to make him feel safe.

Her brother cleared his throat as he stood in front of the bed before bringing up the question. “So, Jungkook, do you know anything about this mark?” he questioned before grasping his sister’s wrist and showing the mark to the younger boy. “You have one like this, too, right?”

It took a while but Jungkook recognized it. “Mother had one like that, too.”

“I know but did she ever mention something about this?” he asked again and when the boy slowly shook his head he let Haeyoon’s wrist go. He ‘tsk-ed’ before grabbing the chair on the study stable and straddling it. “You sure?”

Jungkook became silent for a while, as if trying to think of or recall something. “I think…mother did mention something about it being a seal when I asked before but I’m not so sure.”

“Seal?” the siblings said in unison. “Seal for what?” it was Yoongi who asked the question.

“That’s…that’s all I know,” he said with a contrite face.

“It’s okay, what you told us is more than enough,” she patted Jungkook’s head before turning to Yoongi. “I think we should really ask mom and dad about this.”

Her brother snorted at the idea. “As if they would tell us; you heard them last night, they have no intention of letting us in on whatever it is that’s going on until who knows when.”

“Then what do you say we do, Sherlock?” Haeyoon asked with a cocked eyebrow.

“Finish the book,” he replied. “I have a feeling that we can find something in there if not the exact answers.”

“You make it sound so easy,” Haeyoon shot the brown-haired boy a look. “You know we can’t get the book unless they’re not here and we’re lucky enough if dad didn’t hide it yet.”

“That’s why we’ll do it tomorrow,” Yoongi persisted. “It’s weekend and they’ll both come home later that usual. We’re gonna have to find it if it’s hidden and Jungkook here can help do the searching while we’re gone since you have to help in aunt’s café while I have basketball practice.”

Haeyoon searched Jungkook’s face who only sweetly smiled at her, “I think I could help you with that.”

“Good,” Yoongi nodded in approval and his sister gave him a funny look. “What?” he demanded with arms crossed across his chest.

“I see you’re already approving of him,” she chuckled when her brother turned away, nose high in the air.

“Don’t put words in my mouth, princess,” he huffed but Haeyoon knew him too well to know that he’s slowly warming up to the other boy.

“Whatever you say, dear brother,” she muttered dismissively before standing up and eyeing the empty glass of milk on Jungkook’s bedside table. “I’ll bring this down for you, hmm?” she turned to Jungkook before patting him yet again on the head which the boy seemed to love very much. Then she glanced at her brother and said, “I’ll go ahead and you can continue having boy-to-boy talk with him.”

Yoongi abruptly stood up with a snort. “Like I would,” he muttered before walking past his sister and accidently bumping on her arm which caused her to drop the glass. They were all startled as it landed on the hard wooden floor and crashed into tiny shards. “Shit, I’m so sorry, princess!”

“It’s okay,” she said as she bent down to start picking up the broken pieces which she realized belatedly was a very stupid move.

“Wait, you’ll gonna—,” Yoongi tried to stop her but it was too late.

“Ouch!”

“—hurt youself.” The boy approached his sister and gently pulled her up to check on her wound. Her index and middle finger on her left hand was cut pretty deep but it was nothing serious. “It’s a pretty big cut but nothing a bandage strip couldn’t solve.”

Haeyoon bit her lip as she winced at her stinging wound. She turned to Jungkook to warn him not to go down the bed until they clean the mess but she was surprised to see him cradling one of his hands with a pained expression. “Are you okay?” she asked as she moved away from Yoongi and approached the boy on the bed.

“What happened?” Yoongi asked as he stood beside them. The siblings were both stunned to see Jungkook sporting the exact same wound as Haeyoon. The middle and index finger on his left hand was bleeding equally as the girl’s fingers. No matter how they think about it, it was obviously no coincidence because it was an identical wound and it happened at the very same time and there were no shards or any sharp objects near the boy where he can possibly get the cut. He was just sitting there, not moving at all so the only explanation they can come up with was that he got it when Haeyoon got it. “Holy shit! How the fuck did that happen?”

Haeyoon and Jungkook were both speechless as they stared at their wounds then at each other’s surprised faces. First the black mark and now this? What in the world is happening?

“Does this mean that—Yoongi, pinch me!” she suddenly blurted but her brother complied notheless and as expected, Jungkook felt it, too. When she asked Yoongi to pinch Jungkook, she felt it as well. “Oh my, gosh…that was weird.”

“Weird?” Yoongi exclaimed so loud it was a wonder their parents didn’t come knocking on the door to ask what’s wrong. “That was more than freaking weird!”

“ARE YOU SURE you’re okay, sweetie?” Haeyoon’s aunt asked her for the umpteenth time. “You’re spacing out since this morning, you can stake some rest if you want.”

The girl tried to force a smile to reassure her aunt that there was nothing to worry about. “I’m really fine, aunty, just thinking about some new recipe that we could add on the menu.” She hated lying but she can’t possibly tell the old woman that she was actually thinking about a certain boy they left in their house and how they both got the same mark and that they could actually feel what the others could feel.

“Alright,” the woman sighed. “But you have to tell me when your wound starts hurting, okay? I can’t let you strain yourself, you helped me more than enough.” Her aunt smiled warmly at her and gave her a squeeze before disappearing in the kitchen and leaving her to attend on the counter.

Haeyoon sighed heavily as she tried to clear her mind for a while, nothing of the things happening make sense but looking at the brighter side of the events, she could make sure that Jungkook is fine even if they’re away from each other because if he’s hurt in anyway, she would definitely feel it. Looking around the cozy shop and smelling the wonderful aroma of the coffee and pastries was slowly relaxing her stressed mind. The café owned by her aunt on mother’s side was peaceful and quiet although there are a few couples, group of teenagers and some university students lounging inside. And that’s how Haeyoon wanted to spend her every Saturday. She started volunteering on the café at the age of ten when she discovered that she had a knack for baking. It’s really a win-win situation for her because aside from being able to do what she loves, she was also able to help her widow aunt. After a few minutes more of calm and peacefulness the bell on the door chimed, signaling the arrival of a new customer…or customers.

“Ooh, the other group of hot stuffs is here,” Minah, her co-worker, grinned at her as she passed by the counter with a tray and two empty cups of coffee. “I really like it when you’re on duty, Haeyoonie, cute boys keep on coming.” The girl’s short black hair bobbed as she giggled. “I already missed you’re brother’s group,” she added with a wink before disappearing inside the kitchen, leaving Haeyoon chuckling to herself at her friend’s silliness.

“Sweetcake!” a loud overly excited voice shattered the tranquil ambiance of the whole café. But as Haeyoon could see, the other customers weren’t bothered much by the new comers, if anything, some of the girls, especially the teenagers, started squealing quietly among themselves with their dreamy eyes following the group’s every move. “Oppa missed you so much!” The loud boy ran up to the counter before leaning over and squishing her cheeks. “You’ve gotten so much cuter since we last visited here.”

“Don’t hog her, Jackson,” a boy with silver hair said as he pushed Jackson out of the way. “Hi, A,” he greeted Haeyoon with a wink that made the other girls in the room swoon.

The auburn-headed girl rolled her eyes. “My name’s Haeyoon, Jaebum,” she reminded him but it went on deaf ears when he insisted on calling her “A” which is a short term for “Angel” according to him.

“Won’t you smile for me, princess?” a voice said from her side and she turned her head to see another black haired boy grinning widely at her.

“You do know that the counter is for authorized personnel only, right?” she said with raised brow before eyeing his arm that was now draped possessively around her shoulder.

“I know and I know for sure that aunty won’t mind Prince Jr being here,” he said and as if on cue, her aunt came out of the kitchen with a pleasant smile.

“My, my, I knew you were here, you, boys, always make quite a grand entrance,” the woman chuckled before adding, “It’s been a while seen I’ve seen Haeyoon’s knights in my café, be sure to enjoy, alright?” The group buzzed in agreement before the woman went back inside.

“I told you,” Jr murmured in Haeyoon’s ears before planting a quick kiss on her cheek causing her roll her eyes once more.

“Oh no, what happened to your hand?!” another raven-haired boy with a patch of yellow on the fringe invaded the counter and her personal space as he fussed over her injured hand. “Did it hurt a lot, Haeyoonie? Do you want me to kiss the pain away?”

“Nice try, Bambam but as far as medical study is concern, morphine can reduce pain and not a kiss,” a tall boy stood beside JB with a smirk on his face.

“You’re such a cockblocker, Yugyeom,” another boy butt in as he slung an arm around the latter’s shoulder.

“Language, Choi Youngjae,” Haeyoon said as she gave him a warning glance.

The boy sheepishly bit his lip as he muttered, “Sorry, princess” to her. While the other boys continued fussing over her hand especially Bambam, Jackson and Jr, a red-haired boy caught her attention. He was just standing silently behind JB but when he caught her looking at him, he showed her a warm smile that he rarely do in front of other people. Haeyoon smiled in return and waved her right uninjured-hand a little and that’s when the boy’s smile faltered. His lips parted a little and his eyes widened ever so slightly in a surprised manner. He suddenly walked around the counter, tore the other boys away from Haeyoon before grabbing her right hand and turning it up.

“Where’d you get this?” he asked breathlessly as if he can’t believe what he’s seeing on her wrist. The other boys suddenly stopped making noises, faces mirroring the red-head’s reaction upon the sight of the unusual mark.

Haeyoon found herself unable to reply. How could she say that it just magically appeared on her wrist when she held hand with Jungkook? Would they believe her? The girl don’t think so, that’s why instead of answering his query, she found herself asking him back. “W-why’d you ask, Mark?”

“Just answer me, damn it!” the boy raised his voice, grip tightening around her wrist and making her flinch. Never once did Mark get angry at her, he was always the cool and calm one, always gentle and careful around her and his outburst quite scared the poor girl.

“Mark,” JB said in an authoritative voice, silently commanding the other boy to release his grip and as soon as Mark let go, Haeyoon was pulled into JB’s arms protectively. Before she could register what’s really happening, the silver-haired boy gently passed her to Jr’s waiting arms before walking out of the café with Mark in tow.

Haeyoon was left with questions on why did Mark and the others react that way. It was like they recognized the black mark at that moment but when she asked them if they know something about it they all frantically shook their heads in strong denial saying that it's the first time they saw something like that and they were quite surprised. But Haeyoon was not that naive to not notice that Jr and the others were dodging her questions and trying to divert her attention by changing the topic. She found them acting strange but she decided to let it slide for the meantime.

“THIS IS SERIOUSLY the best, Yoonie,” Bambam said with mouthful of chocolate cake that she baked.

“Thanks, Bammie,” she chuckled as she wiped the dark icing smeared on his lips with a table napkin. Due to the boys’ persistent demand, she was given a longer than usual break by her aunt who gladly complied with the request.

“I don’t know what I would do with my life if Bambam wasn’t able to discover this café and bring us here,” Jackson said after swallowing a spoonful of strawberry cheesecake; trust the boy to exaggerate things. “I don’t know what I would do with my life if I wasn’t able to meet my baby sweetcake Haeyoon and fall inlove!” Haeyoon just had to roll her eyes at that.

It was because of the café that they met each other. All seven of them went to a middle school not too far away from the café and one day, Bambam was exploring the neighborhood when he accidentally discovered the place. Being the foodie that he was he immediately tried the cakes on display and immediately fell in love. That time, he demanded to see the baker and was pleasantly surprised to see a very pretty girl wearing a cute pink apron. From then on, he frequently visited the café together with his other friends who quickly took a liking at Haeyoon, thus, making them all friends. Having known each other for more than four years is enough to bring them close like siblings.

“Say, ahh, my princess,” Jr cooed at her while he held his fork with mocha cake in front of her lips. However, instead of Haeyoon, Yugyeom was the one who took the bite.

“Haeyoon loves strawberry, don’t you know?” the boy smugly said as he pushed his plate of strawberry cake towards the girl.

“Woah, Mr. I-don’t-want-to-share-what’s-mine was actually giving away his slice of favorite cake? Wow, just wow, you really are something, babygirl,” Youngjae said dramatically complete with slow clapping which made Haeyoon laugh and Yugyeom blush.

Haeyoon then remembered something which made her smile turn upside down as she found herself anxiously glancing out the glass wall. Ever since Mark’s outburst, he and JB are still not coming back. She wondered what happened with Mark and why did he react that way. Sure, the other boys were also surprised and shared the same horrified look when they saw the mark but they seemed to get over it rather quickly and began acting normal and cheerful around her again.

“Jr,” she nudged the boy beside her. “Can you check up on Mark and JB?”

“Why? You worried, princess?” the boy asked jokingly but when she looked at him with a pair of cute worried eyes, he suddenly gushed at her. “Oh my gosh! You adorable little bunny! Why do you have to be so cute?!” He engulfed her in a bear hug while rocking her back and forth.

“Guys, you’re back!” Bambam exclaimed which made them all turn towards the direction of Mark and JB. Haeyoon looked at the two guys but Mark was avoiding her eyes while JB was giving her a smile that say’s she doesn’t have to worry.

“Hi, angel,” JB said as he slid in between her and Yugyeom which earned a lot of protest from the latter. “Where is my favorite cake?”

“Uh, yeah, here,” she passed him a slice of black forest which he accepted with a cute boyish smile. “Is…is Mark okay?” she can’t help but ask as she snuck a glance at the red-head who sat at the farthest side of the table. “Is he mad at me?”

“Of course not,” the silver-haired boy softened when he saw the worried look on Haeyoon’s face. He placed a comforting arm around her before kissing her on the temple. “You’ll see, before the day ends, he will come to you. There’s no way he could last a day without talking to you,” the boy whispered and what he said eased her a bit.

“GOOD THING YOUR brother and his friends aren’t going to pick you up today,” Jackson grinned at Haeyoon as he walked backwards which earned him a few warnings from JB and Jr that what he’s doing was actually dangerous. They were walking Haeyoon to her house since her brother was still in basketball practice.

“I still don’t get why you guys don’t get along,” Haeyoon said to all of them. “It’s like there’s always a competition going on between your group and theirs.”

“There is a competition, sweetheart,” Youngjae pointed out, placing an arm around her shoulders. “Our schools are rivals, remember?”

“But I’m friends with all of you,” she insisted, trying prove her point. “So why can’t you be friends with them, too?”

The boys looked at her with amused smiles on their faces. She really is too innocent for her own good. The competition they were talking about was not just about the school, they were competing in more ways than one but Haeyoon won’t realize it because she’s pure like that.

“It’s a guy thing, princess,” Jr said as he pinched her cute button nose. “Like how wolves claim territory, you know?”

Haeyoon snorted in an unlady-like way which made them chuckle. “Guy thing my ass.”

“Woah, sweetcake is being sassy, me likey,” Jackson wiggled his eyebrows suggestively at her which earned him a smack from both JB and Yugyeom.

“We’re here!” Bambam announced when they halt in front of a modern-looking two storey house with white pristine walls and elegant black roof. All of them, with the exception of Mark, gave her either a hug or kiss on the forehead or cheek as they bid her goodbye and Haeyoon can’t help but wonder how they were so much alike with Yoongi and his friends. Haeyoon was sure that the boys would get along just fine if they only give it a chance.

“Thanks for walking me home,” she smiled brightly at them before waving goodbye. She watched them walk away but was surprised when Mark stayed behind.

“Hey,” Mark started rather awkwardly as he rubbed the back of his neck and refused meeting her in the eye. “I just wanted to apologize for earlier.”

A gentle smile made its way on Haeyoon’s lips when she saw the boy looking so embarrassed and guilty. She knew that Mark wasn’t one to apologize, and seeing him put effort just to make up with her made her forgive him easily. “It’s okay, I forgive you.”

Mark snapped his head to look at her with a surprised look. He knew that Haeyoon was a very kind-hearted girl but he didn’t expect her to forgive him so easily. “Just like that?”

The girl giggled at his reaction and said, “What? Want me to make you walk on your knees around the city just so I forgive you or do you want me to make you do one hundred flips in the air instead?”

Mark broke out into a carefree grin and shook his head. “Thanks but no thanks; I’ll take your first offer.” He walked towards her and pulled her into a warm embrace. Feeling her warm soft body against him made him realize that getting into sort of a fight or misunderstanding with her, even for just a few hours, was unbearable and made him so upset. “Remind me to not get into a fight with you again,” he sighed as he buried his face into her strawberry and honeysuckle scented hair.

Haeyoon giggled as she patted his back comfortingly. “But, really, why’d you get mad so suddenly?” she asked, her curiosity getting the best of her.

Mark pulled away enough to see her pretty face before shaking his head at her. “I’m sorry for reacting that way but don’t worry, okay?” He pulled her into his arms again. “We’ll protect you…I’ll protect you no matter what happens.”

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