Chapter Nine

“Yes, I understand that, Mrs. Chapman.”

I was pacing back and forth on the terrace, trying to talk to Jewel’s parents. It had been a couple weeks since the night Ambrosia offered to help us. In only a couple of days we had been able to contact Jewel’s family again. However, they weren’t making things easy for Morgyn and I. They had written Jewel off completely and refused to even attend a court hearing regarding her adoption.

“Mrs. Chapman, please listen to me,” I said in an increasingly exasperated voice. “She requested this a-“

I was cut off by Mrs. Chapman yelling even more about how she didn’t care about the request. “You can just have her!” She screamed. “I want nothing to do with her, you or this situation anymore!”

I sighed deeply. “And if you would just f—” I stopped myself as my eyes widened. I cleared my throat. “Excuse me, I’m sorry. If you want nothing to do with her, then this court hearing will be the last you hear from any of us. All you have to do is sign a paper.” I closed my eyes, just waiting for more yelling.

“Ms. Hunter, you clearly aren’t listening. You go, talk to your lawyers, draw up the stupid paper and drop it off at my office. I’ll text you the address. I’ll sign it, leave it outside and text you to pick it up again. Are we clear on this?”

I started to see red. “Just like that.” I spoke quietly and calmly. “Just like that?” I took a deep breath. “It’s bad enough that you just threw your daughter out like she was trash, but now that she has a chance to live the rest of her life with a family that actually loves her, it’s too much of an inconvenience to show up and get it done? Do you even realize just how pathetic that is? Do you really?” I stopped. “Fine. We’ll do it your way. I can’t wait to get this done. Have a great day, Mrs. Chapman.”

And with that, I hung up. I walked over to the railing, looking out over the city and across the river to the hills beyond. “God dammit,” I mumbled. “She makes me sick.”

“Who does?” I heard. I peered over my shoulder and saw Morgyn approach me.

I looked back over the city. “Mrs. Chapman.”

“Oh, you had another call with her?” He put his arm around me and looked out as well.

“Yes, and it was the same crap she’s been pulling all along. ‘Oh, I want nothing to do with her, and I’m going to make it increasingly hard for anyone else to have anything to do with her too!’” I said it in a mocking tone. “‘Because I’m an absolute psychopath!’”

Morgyn looked frustrated, but slightly amused at my impression. “It will all work out.”

“She finally agreed to sign the paper,” I said. “But I’m not sure if that will suffice in court.”

“Call Ambrosia. Maybe she can talk to someone who will know.” Morgyn continued gazing out, watching the water of the river. The sunlight danced across his face as he stood, deep in thought.

“I will,” I replied with a slight nod. I turned around, leaning my back against the railing. Morgyn looked at me and smiled.

“And despite your frustrations, you still glow.” He turned toward me.

“If I’m glowing right now, it’s because my blood is boiling and most likely trying to find an escape route.” I sighed.

He tilted his head. “Nah, it’s more than that.”

I couldn’t help but smile, seeing how he looked at me.

“Calm down,” he said. “This will all work out, but anger gets you nowhere but more angry.”

I sighed and looked down. “You’re right. She’s just so frustrating.”

“But,” he held up his hand. “You got further than we’ve gotten in the last couple of weeks, no?”

I nodded. “Yes.”

“Then that’s good.” He hugged me. “So, stop stressing about it. It’s not good-“

“For the baby, I know, I know.” I finished his sentence. “Caleb reminds me every day.”

“Then listen,” Morgyn grinned.

I sighed. “It would be much easier if there were less stressful people in the world.”

Morgyn laughed. “Well, yeah. That’s true.”

Caleb came out. “Hey guys.” He kissed Morgyn’s cheek, then mine. “How’s it going?”

“I just had a stressful phone call, but other than that, I’m alright.” I leaned into him.

“What was the stressful phone call?” Caleb asked.

I explained my call with Jewel’s mother. As I spoke, he looked more and more excited. “Jade, that’s great!” He exclaimed. “It may not have been the outcome you wanted, but she did agree to sign the document.”

I nodded. “Morgyn said that too.”

“Then maybe it’s something you should consider,” he grinned. “I don’t know much about court and all of that, but I’m pretty sure as long as they have something in writing, they don’t need the person there. Especially in such…unique circumstances.”

I looked down. “Well, I sure hope so.”

Before Caleb could speak again, a cloud of black mist appeared behind him. As it dissipated, Vlad stood in its place.

Caleb furrowed his brow. “Vlad.”

Vlad grinned menacingly. “Hello, Caleb.”

“The hell do you want?” Caleb asked angrily. He put his arm around my waist protectively.

“I hear things,” Vlad said. He stepped closer to Caleb. “Things I don’t like to hear.”

“Alright?” Caleb asked. “And what exactly do you want me to do to about it?”

“Oh, nothing,” Vlad said. “I’m simply here to say our peace agreement is void, starting today.”

I felt my heart sink, but Caleb rolled his eyes, not taking Vlad seriously. “And why is that, old man?”

“Lilith and my son.” Vlad narrowed his eyes. “I think it goes without saying that I don’t like that.”

Caleb stepped forward, letting me go. He got in Vlad’s face. “Once again, what exactly do you want me to do about that?”

Vlad grinned. “Temper, temper, Caleb. You wouldn’t want to start something in front of your pregnant lover, would you?”

Morgyn stepped in front of me. Vlad laughed. “Anyhow, this is where the term ‘guilty by association’ applies.” He stared Caleb down. “Because I don’t expect you to do anything. But if I’m voiding the agreement for one sibling, it just so happens that it applies to the other sibling.”

“Don’t touch my sister,” Caleb growled. “I won’t hesitate to tear you apart.”

“Tempting,” Vlad shrugged. “But remember.” He leaned in closer to Caleb and grinned. “You can’t be in two places at one time.” He smiled at me and teleported away again.

Caleb stepped back and sighed, his expression softening. “I can’t stand him.”

“I could light him on fire for you,” Morgyn grinned, summoning a fireball in his hand.

Caleb shook his head. “If we’re going to make him burn, I have many other ways to prolong that torture.”

I raised an eyebrow. “Sadistic.” I didn’t think he had it in him.

“I’ve dealt with him for more than a century,” Caleb furrowed his brow. “I want nothing more than for him to just disappear, in one way or another. But I’m not evil like him. I can’t ever bring myself to do anything to him.” His lips curled in anger. “But if he does anything to harm anyone I love, I won’t hold back. I’ll turn him to dust without hesitation.”

I thought for a moment. “Wait, he just broke the agreement now. Then what about before, when he held me hostage?”

“I don’t know anymore,” Caleb said, exasperated. “Honestly, he hasn’t honored that agreement fully, but it’s not like there was any sort of punishment for breaking it.”

I hugged him, not knowing what to say.

“I’ll do everything in my power to keep everyone I love safe,” he continued.

I nodded and pulled away. “Why don’t we go somewhere?”

“Where?” He asked.

“You pick.” I smiled and rested my hand on his chest.

He smiled slightly. “Alright. Let’s go.”

I turned to Morgyn as Caleb walked away. “I’ll be back soon.”

He nodded. “Take your time. He needs this.”

We headed out of the building and Caleb took my hand. I smiled at him as we walked.

“Do you have an idea of where we are headed?” I asked.

He looked up at the sky. “I have an idea, yes. I’ll take you back to my house.”

I grinned. “Oh?”

“Mhm. I have some cleaning to do in the attic.”

Huh? What did he mean by that? “That’s an odd thing to do when you’re visiting your sister.”

“You’ll see what I mean,” he smiled.

We made our way to Forgotten Hollow and then to Wolfsbane Manor. Once there, Caleb led me up to the small attic space.

I looked around. It was surprisingly clean for an attic. I was expecting cobwebs and exotic spiders. Okay, maybe the exotic part was my arachnophobia kicking in, but still.

The space was large enough for a couple of boxes. One of them was a white and gold chest. Caleb opened the chest and started to move things around inside of it.

“I put this up here to be rid of the memories,” he said, still rummaging. “But,” he stopped and looked down. “I suppose I have closure now.” He smiled at me. “And I’m glad you’re with me for this.”

I smiled and knelt beside him. “Me too.”

He continued rummaging and pulled out a folded dress. It was back and red, with roses down one side and other designs throughout. It was gorgeous.

Caleb closed his eyes. “This was her favorite.”

The more I looked at it, the more I recognized it. Ruby wore this dress in the dreams in which I saw her. I smiled sadly at it. Seeing it there without a body in it gave me a sadness I didn’t understand.

Caleb put the dress aside and continued looking through the chest. He pulled out a white box. It was a box you would get from a jeweler when buying a piece of jewelry. He sighed and put it down between us and kept rummaging. I knew what that was, and I didn’t even need to look inside.

Caleb sniffled a little, turning his head away from me. “Maybe I wasn’t ready for this.”

I leaned forward and rested my head on his shoulder. “You don’t have to do this.”

“There’s something I’m looking for,” he said. He looked to his side at another chest. “Maybe it’s in this one.” He picked up the dress and folded it again, placing it back in the chest. He picked up the ring box and started to put it back, but stopped.

“No,” he said quietly, opening it. He gazed at the diamond ring inside. He smiled sadly. “I’d be dumb to let this rot in the chest.” He turned to me. “I feel this should go to you.”

My heart skipped a beat. “M-me?”

He laughed softly. “Don’t worry, this isn’t a proposal.” He held the box out to me. “Just a gift.”

I blushed and took the ring box. “Caleb, you don’t-“

“Yes I do,” he moved closer. “I really do. If it doesn’t go to you, it’ll just sit up here for another hundred years.” He smiled. “If you don’t want to put it on yourself, I will put it on for you.”

I blushed even more and handed the box back to him. Laughing softly, he took the ring out of the box and picked up my right hand.

“I won’t put this on your left ring finger, for obvious reasons.” He smiled. He slid the ring onto my right ring finger and leaned in closer to me. “Now it’s where it belongs.”

I gazed into his eyes as he inched closer. Finally, he kissed me slowly. I wrapped my arms around him.

“I love you,” I whispered, resting my forehead on his.

“I love you too,” he smiled. He pulled away and started to rummage through the other chest. He finally stopped. His back was turned, so I couldn’t see his expression, but he seemed to just freeze.

“Here it is,” he said.

I watched as he pulled something out. It was a knitted, cream colored blanket. He seemed to just stare at it.

“My mother made it,” he said. “She had completed it only a few weeks before she passed.”

“I’m so sorry,” I said quietly.

He smiled. “Don’t be. This is a fond memory. She made this for our baby. I put it away and never pulled it back out again.” His smile faded a little. “For obvious reasons. But now, I’m going to give it to my baby.” He laughed quietly. “Even if she’s not a baby anymore.”

“I’m sure she’ll love it,” I smiled too.

“Yes,” he nodded.

We left the house, blanket in hand. Lilith wasn’t home, which I felt was good given what Vlad had said to Caleb. I knew he was still agitated, and didn’t know how it would go with Lilith. I didn’t know how she would react to the news anyway. Vlad never knew how to leave anything alone.

Stepping into the house, we saw Lilith in the living room with Kris. Caleb smiled and sat down. He laughed quietly. “I went to your house as you came to mine, eh?”

“Oh you were there?” She asked.

“Yeah, I stopped by to grab a couple things from the attic,” he nodded. He showed her the blanket and took my hand to show her the ring.

She smiled happily. “Ruby’s ring.”

“With its rightful owner,” he nodded, letting my hand go.

I blushed.

Kris came in and sat beside Lilith. Caleb looked down at the floor. “I guess now is as good of a time as it’s going to be to tell you about Vlad’s visit earlier today.”

Lilith sat forward. “What happened?”

Caleb sighed. “He came by to say that he was voiding our peace agreement.”

“What?” Lilith’s eyes widened. “Why?”

“He found out about you and Kris,” Caleb explained.

Kris stood up and walked away from the couch angrily. He began to pace. “I knew it,” he growled. “I knew it. He’s still the same jackass he was back then.”

Caleb also stood up. “Kris.”

“He’s…”Kris stopped. “He just can’t let anyone be happy, can he?”

“Kris, please.” Caleb placed his hands on Kris’ shoulders. “Don’t do anything drastic.”

Kris shook his head, tears in his eyes. “I won’t, Caleb, but I just don’t understand this. If anything, this should make Vlad like you more, right? Lilith makes me happy. He would want me to be happy, right?”

Caleb furrowed his brow. “I’m convinced he really only cares about himself.”

Kris shook his head. “I’m done trying with that man.” His eyes closed red. “If it’s a fight he wants, it’s a fight he will get.”

“No, Kris,” Caleb shook his head. “We won’t fight. We will find another way.” He pulled Kris into a hug.

“I hate him,” Kris whispered as tears streamed down his face.

Caleb closed his eyes and hugged him tighter.

Lilith sighed. “As much as I want to kick Vlad’s ass, Caleb’s right. A fight would only make things worse.”

My phone rang as she was speaking. “Excuse me,” I said, walking away.

“Hello?” I answered.

“Is this Ms. Hunter?” A woman’s voice asked.

“Yes,” I nodded. “May I ask who this is?”

“It’s Mrs. Chapman,” she said. “I’ve contacted my lawyer about Jewel, and she advised that we do go to court for this matter.” She cleared her throat. “And I want to apologize for my previous behavior.”

“You’re forgiven,” I said quietly. Maybe. “I’ll go to court with my lawyer in the morning to file a petition.”

“No need,” she said. “Because it’s an adoption, my lawyer called in a favor. We meet with the judge tomorrow evening. Seven o’clock.”

I almost dropped the phone. “I…”

“I want this over with,” she continued. “If she’s happy with you and Morgyn, then so be it. We are happier without.”

I didn’t know if I should be happy or angry. I settled for both. “I’ll be in touch,” I said coldly.

She hung up before I could say goodbye. Good. I put my phone back into my pocket and walked back toward everyone. There was so much going on at once. It was hard to keep up. I decided to talk to Morgyn rather than listen to the conversation between Caleb, Lilith and Kris. I walked upstairs. I found Morgyn sitting in the sauna room. I couldn’t go sit with him as it wasn’t good for the baby. I knocked on the door. Morgyn looked up and smiled at me. I nodded and motioned for him to come out, then walked away to let him change. I sat down at the bar to wait. As he came out, he sat beside me.

“All hell is breaking loose downstairs,” I sighed. I needed quiet to talk to you.”

He looked at me, concerned. “What’s going on?”

“A lot.” I looked at him with a pleading expression. He was the most calm thing in my life. I needed him. “Good news is, we have court tomorrow at seven o’clock in the evening for Jewel.”

Morgyn’s eyes lit up. “Really?”

“Yeah,” I nodded with a slight smile. I was really happy, but everything surrounding the court hearing and then everything with Vlad cast a shadow over anything good that could happen.

Morgyn tilted his head. “But?”

“But, Mrs. Chapman is just plain rude.” I growled an “ugh” and continued, “and Kris and Lilith now know about Vlad. Kris isn’t taking it well.” I rested my elbows on the bar and buried my face in my hands. “Everything is going to hell.”

Morgyn rubbed my back. “Calm down.” He spoke quietly. “Focus on the good.”

“Tomorrow is the day,” I said.

“Exactly,” he smiled.

I shook my head. “I don’t want her to know right away. I want to surprise her with the papers.”

Morgyn smiled brighter. “I love that idea.”

I nodded solemnly, still looking at the bar and not at Morgyn.

“Hey,” he said quietly, rubbing my shoulder. He stood up as I looked at him. “Come with me.”

I stood up and followed him into the bedroom. We sat down on the bed.

“Don’t think about anything,” he said. “Just relax.”

I gazed at him. “What are you going to do?”

“Nothing,” he smiled. “I just want to take you away from the stress.” He moved so he was resting against the headboard. “Come here.”

I moved toward him, sitting on his lap and resting my head between his neck and shoulder. He wrapped his arms tightly around me. “Just relax.”

I closed my eyes, just listening to Morgyn’s breathing. He stroked my hair gently, relaxing me.

“You might put me to sleep,” I said quietly.

“That’s alright. I don’t have anywhere to be.” He kissed my forehead.

We were still and quiet. It was nice. My mind gradually stopped racing, and I felt myself calming down. I took a deep breath.

“Better?” Morgyn twirled a strand of my hair around his finger.

I nodded. “For now. Thank you.”

“Of course.” He placed one of his hands on my belly. “The world isn’t as forgiving of your condition as it should be. You’re getting overwhelmed.”

I nodded again. “I need to learn to not let it get to me.” I rested my hand on his hand, lacing my fingers with his.

“That’s not easy,” he replied. “But that’s just one more thing for you to worry about. Don’t.”

I planted a soft kiss on his neck. “I won’t.”

We were silent for a while, and I felt my eyes getting heavier as the afternoon faded into evening. As the silence grew longer, I drifted off to sleep.

I woke up the next morning to Morgyn gently stroking my skin with his fingertips. I opened my eyes and rolled onto my back, looking up at him.

“Morning,” he smiled.

I smiled back. “Morning. Thank you for last night.”

He kissed me softly. “I saw you getting lost in your own head. You needed a moment away from it all.”

I rested my head on his chest. “You’re a lifesaver.”

“Nah,” he shook his head. “Not a lifesaver.”

I giggled softly. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” He paused briefly. “We have a big day today.”

My stomach knotted up. “I know.”

“Hey,” he stroked my hair. “I’ll be there. This is a good thing.”

I gripped the blankets tightly, as if they’d keep me safe.

“Look at me,” he said.

I lifted my head to look at him.

“This is a good thing.” He smiled.

I nodded. “I know. I’m just worried.”

He caressed my cheek. “What can I do to ease your mind?”

I sat up. “I don’t know. Nothing.” I probably sounded a lot more cold than I wanted to.

He also sat up and pulled me closer. “Maybe this?” He whispered and kissed me.

As we pulled away, I smiled slightly. “Sure, that helped a bit.”

“I could do it again,” he grinned.

I giggled as he kissed me again.

We got up shortly after. I stood in front of  the mirror, gazing nervously at my outfit. I chose something nice, but not too nice. Something classy and businesslike. A black skirt with a white button down top. I turned to Morgyn, who was choosing his own outfit.

“Is this too much?” I asked, worried. “Or maybe not enough?”

He smiled. “Jade…” He put his arms around me. “Stop worrying. You look great.”

I nodded. “Thanks.” I didn’t believe him. I had never had to go to court before. I was scared that I wouldn’t be dressed appropriately.

“I mean it. You need to stop worrying. Everything will work out.” He placed his hand on my belly. “No stress.”

I took a deep breath and closed my eyes. “No stress.”

Caleb came in. “I’m sorry about last night.”

I smiled reassuringly. “It’s alright. Kris had every right to be upset. I just needed to get away from it.” I leaned into him as he hugged me. “Is he better today?”

Caleb nodded. “Yes.”

“Good.” I turned toward him. “I couldn’t explain last night because of everything, but Morgyn and I are going to court with Mr. and Mrs. Chapman tonight.”

“Tonight?” He asked, stunned.

I nodded. “Yes. After hours. Apparently, her lawyer called in a favor because she couldn’t be bothered with actual court.”

He sat on the bed. “I suppose that makes things easier for you two then.”

I shrugged. “Yeah.”

Morgyn nodded. “She’s a bit nervous.”

Caleb tilted his head. “Well, this is a big deal, hmm?”

I wrung my hands together. “Yes, but it’ll be worth it.”

He stood up and put his arms around me, smiling warmly. “It will be worth it.”

Morgyn put his arms around both of us in a group hug. “Absolutely.”

The day passed slowly. I glanced at the clocks in the realm every ten minutes, despite feeling like an hour had passed each time. I decided to take a break and head up to the garden on the balcony. I sat in the grass and gently touched one of the flowers. I smiled a little, despite my growing anxiety. I knew it would go well. We all wanted the same thing. But facing her parents, not to mention the idea of court just put my stomach in knots.

“Oh, there you are!” Morgyn exclaimed, standing beside where I was sitting.

I laughed softly. “Yes. Here I am.”

He held out his hand. “Are you alright?”

I took his hand and stood up. “Yeah, I’m good.”

“Still nervous?”

“A little, but I’ll be alright.”

He smiled. “We only have two hours now. It’s time to go home. Ready?”

I nodded slowly. “Sure.”

We headed home, and I sat down at the computer. Checking my email, I saw one from Ambrosia. I smiled a little and opened it.

“Hey Mom!

I reserved the big house on Mount Komorebi for all of us, including Morgyn, Jewel, Kris and Aunt Lilith, if they want to join. I’ve CC’ed Dad, but I don’t know if he ever checks his email haha!

So, the reservation is in two weeks. I know Jewel’s birthday is around that time, and it was the soonest we could get that big place. I scheduled it as a weekend trip, but we can extend it if we want to. Jewel says she has a week break from school anyway, so it works out well!

See you soon!

Ambrosia”

I nodded as if she were sitting in front of me. Mount Komorebi was beautiful from what I had seen, but I had only seen it in photographs. I had never been there. It was quite far from San Myshuno. It had a large ski resort, which I knew I wouldn’t be able to try out given I was pregnant, but they also had hiking trails, sledding, festivals and a nice bathhouse to relax in. The more I thought about it, the more excited I got. This would be great for all of us.

I decided to play a game to pass the time. After a little while, Morgyn came up to me.

“Ready?” He asked with a smile.

My heart fluttered in nervousness. “Yes.” I stood up, and he took my hand. He let down his shield, causing a shock between us.

“Hey,” he grinned. “If they piss us off, we can just light them on fire.”

I giggled. “That would be a great way to get arrested.”

“But it made you laugh,” he giggled with me.

We made our way to the court in Newcrest City. I glanced around nervously, looking for the Chapmans. Instead, I saw a middle aged woman with a large leather portfolio folder hurriedly walking toward us. She greeted us with a smile.

“They’re inside,” she said.

I nodded slowly and we stepped into the courthouse.

Once in there, the woman led us to a small room down a long hallway.

“It’s a meeting room, since this is just a small matter. No need for a formal court room,” she explained.

We walked in, and I saw the Chapmans. I could already tell from Mr. Chapman’s demeanor that he clearly had better things to do. Mrs. Chapman glanced between Morgyn and I and then looked away. Her expression was pretty neutral and hard to read.

We sat down across from the Chapmans and their lawyer, with the judge sitting at the end of the table. She was in plain clothes and had her purse and jacket beside her, as if she was heading home after our meeting. She smiled at us.

“Ah, Mr. and Mrs. Ember,” she stood up and held out her hand.

I chuckled softly. “Oh, we’re not-“

“Yes,” Morgyn took her hand and shook it. I glanced at him and smiled nervously, shaking her hand as well.

She sat back down and looked over the portfolio folder the lawyer had given her. “So, this is all pretty cut and dry. The Chapmans are willingly giving custody of their daughter, Jewel Chapman to the Embers.” She looked up at The Chapmans. “Is that correct?”

Mrs. Chapman nodded. “Yes ma’am.”

The judge then looked at us. I nodded and looked at Morgyn, who was smiling happily.

“Yes,” he agreed.

The judge smiled and looked back at the documents, flipping through pages. “Then I really just need you all to sign this.” She pulled out a document with several blank lines for signing. She looked at Morgyn and I. “And you two will receive copies of this and her birth certificate and social security card in about a week. Would you like a copy today?”

I nodded. “Sure.”

“Actually,” Mrs. Chapman spoke up and reached into her bag. “We brought her birth certificate and social security card with us.” She pulled them out and handed them to me.

The judge nodded. “Good. They will be receiving an updated copy of the birth certificate as well.”

We signed the document and handed the paper back to the judge. She placed it back into the portfolio folder and smiled at Morgyn and I. “Congratulations.”

I smiled happily, any nerves I had disappearing quickly. “Thank you.”

We finished the meeting on a light note. Well, at least between Morgyn, the judge, the lawyer and I. The Chapmans still couldn’t be bothered with everything. They were the first out of the building. I rolled my eyes as I watched them walk away.

Morgyn stopped me once we got outside. He gave me a beaming smile and pulled me into a tight hug, picking me up off the ground.

“Aaaaah!” I shrieked, giggling.

He placed me back down and kissed me. “We did it.”

I smiled happily. “We did it.”

We made our way home and quietly told Caleb so Jewel wouldn’t hear.

He beamed. “That’s great! I knew it would go well.” He gestured toward the living room.

Morgyn and I looked over. Jewel was asleep on the couch, using her textbook as a pillow.

I grinned. “Such is the life of a teenager.”

Morgyn watched her in awe. “Yes. Our teenager.” He put his arm around my waist.

I smiled, leaning into him. “Yeah.”

“You plan to surprise her, I heard,” Caleb said.”

“Yeah,” Morgyn nodded. “Her birthday is coming up in a couple weeks, and I think it would be a great present for her.”

“Oh!” I exclaimed. “That reminds me. Ambrosia wrote to me.” I explained the email about the trip to the mountains. As I spoke, I saw both Caleb and Morgyn’s eyes light up with excitement.

“Even Kris and Lilith, eh?” Caleb smiled. “Really taking a trip with the whole family!”

I nodded excitedly. “Yes, and I’ve never been, so I can’t wait to see everything.”

Caleb’s smile faded. “You can’t ski or snowboard.” He sounded sad, but firm when he said it. I knew he was concerned, but also protecting me.

I agreed. “Yes, I know. I won’t do anything to put any lives in danger.” I placed my hand on my belly. “I promise.”

Kris came into the kitchen, where we were. “Hey,” he said quietly. He looked at me apologetically. “I’m sorry for last night.”

I smiled. “Don’t be sorry. You had every right to be upset. Hell, I hate what Vlad is doing too.”

He shook his head. “I just don’t understand it. That man is just horrible.”

Caleb furrowed his brow. “I will make sure no one gets hurt.”

Morgyn nodded. “I second that.”

I also nodded. “You have a lot of people on your side.”

Kris hugged me tightly. “I know, thank you.” He pulled away. “I’m going to go talk to him.”

I sighed. “I don’t really think that’ll change anything.”

Caleb looked away. “I agree. Vlad has his mind stuck one way. Nothing will change it.”

Kris shrugged. “It’s the best I can do.” He furrowed his brow. “And if he starts anything, I’ll finish it.”

I looked at him, shocked. “Are you confident enough in your vampire abilities to win a fight against him?”

“Are you not?” He winked.

“I mean, you were dead for a century,” I gazed at him, concerned.

“I’ve been practicing,” he said quietly. He started to step out. “I’ll be back soon.”

We didn’t get the chance to say anything back as he darted away before we could.

Caleb sighed again. “I hope he’ll be alright.”

“Me too,” Morgyn and I said in unison.

Jewel came in. “Hey.” She rubbed her eyes. “Sorry I fell asleep. Science is boring.”

I smiled and hugged her. “You’re still doing very well in it.”

She nodded as we pulled away. Yawning, she spoke. “Yeah. I’m trying.” She walked over and hugged Morgyn. “I want to train. Can we?”

Morgyn smiled. “Sure. Let’s go outside.”

They walked out onto the terrace, leaving Caleb and I in the kitchen. Caleb still looked very bothered. I walked over to him and took his hands.

“Maybe you should go and just be on standby in case he needs you?”

He shook his head. “No, I don’t want to do that to him. He’s confident.”

“Are you?” I asked, gazing into his eyes.

“I know he is strong. He always was back then. I’m just not sure if he remembers his power’s full potential.” He looked away. “And Vlad wants a fight. When he wants one, he gets one. I’m not sure if he will hold back, even if Kris is like a son to him.”

“Then shouldn’t you go?” I repeated.

He shook his head. “Kris would never forgive me if I followed him like that.”

I put my hands on his shoulders. “But you wouldn’t forgive yourself if something happened, would you?”

He sighed. “I…” He stopped, glancing around nervously.

“I’ll go with you,” I said.

“No!” His eyes shot back to me, fearful.

“Caleb, I won’t get involved. I will just go with you. I’ll even wait outside.” I gazed at him, showing him I was being honest. I had no plans to get involved.

He started to shake his head again, but stopped. “Fine.”

I smiled. “I’ll get us there quickly.” Grabbing his shoulder, I teleported us to Forgotten Hollow.

Caleb glanced around as a few bats flew away from us into the night sky, scared away by my magic. He sighed and took my hand, walking toward Vlad’s mansion. I was apprehensive, but he was on a mission. I didn’t blame him, of course. He wanted to protect Kris.

As we walked up the walk to Vlad’s house, I felt a sense of dread.

“Here,” Caleb pointed to some trees to the side of the house. “Go over there and hide. If you hear a struggle, go get Lilith. She can help. But I don’t want you involved at all, okay?”

I nodded. “Right. I won’t get involved.”

He placed his hand on my belly and kissed my forehead. “I’m not going in yet, but I’ll be by the door, listening. Just, stay over there.”

I nodded again as he walked away.

“Stay safe,” I whispered. I walked over to two plasma fruit trees and sat between them, twirling a blade of grass around my finger gently. I heard some rustling beside me and looked over just in time to see a flower quickly snap shut on a wandering mosquito. It had a mouth and teeth like a human’s.

“AAAAH!” I shrieked and scrambled to my feet.

In a flash, Caleb was at my side. “What is it?”

“What the hell is that?” I asked, my voice still squeaky.

“It’s a Sixam Mosquito Trap,” Caleb whispered. “Now, shhh, we can’t risk either of them hearing us.”

Once again, I nodded, opting to sit away from the trap. I watched it from a distance and became amused with it quickly. It was a flower, but really looked like a mini monster, just chowing down on incoming bugs.

“You’re actually kind of cute, aren’t you?” I giggled softly. “Just a little monster flower.” I sat back. “I’m talking to plants now.” I shook my head and turned my gaze to the plasma fruit trees. The fruits just glowed and dimmed. They were pink ,but would glow purple, then fade, then glow again, like little lights dancing in the darkness. I stood up and looked at one of them closer. Reaching up, I took one off of the tree and sat back down, turning it around in my hands.

“Vampires eat these, eh?” I asked quietly. I was repulsed by the idea. It looked like a glowing onion. What would it even taste like? And what would it do to me if I ate it? Anything? I brought it up to my mouth, then placed it back down. I ran my finger along the edge of it and licked it. It didn’t taste like anything. Bringing my finger back down to it, I tossed around the idea of licking the fruit instead. I glanced up and saw Caleb still standing by the steps of Vlad’s house, hiding in the shadows. I tossed the fruit behind me and sighed. This was going to be pretty boring. But we were here for a good reason. We had to be sure Kris would be alright.

Right on cue, we heard a crash inside. I glanced up at Caleb, who had stepped out of the shadow and was waiting with baited breath for another sound.

I heard mumbling at first, but it grew louder as they moved to the room closest to me. I could hear them clearly as they got closer.

“But a Vatore, Kris?!” Vlad shouted.

I held my hand up to Caleb, signaling for him to wait.

“What’s it to you?” Kris roared back. “God, for once can you think about someone other than yourself?”

There was a loud thump and I heard struggling. I motioned for Caleb to go in and pointed to the room closest to me. He nodded and rushed in. My heart jumped into my throat. I couldn’t do anything. Did I just send Caleb into his death? I calmed my nerves and listened closely.

“C-Cal-leb,” I heard Kris choke out. There was more thumping. I assumed Kris was struggling as Vlad had him by the throat, and he was banging his feet against the wall.

“Get off!” I heard Caleb shout, then another crash.

“What are you doing here?” Kris asked, frantic.

“God DAMMIT!” Vlad shouted. “Vatore!”

I couldn’t take it. I stood up and walked over to the window. Vlad was standing up and started to Rush toward Caleb, who was in his dark form. He held out his hand as Vlad ran into it, knocking Vlad down quickly.

“I didn’t want you to get hurt,” Caleb said to Kris, watching Vlad like a hawk as he stood up. “This monster will stop at nothing to get his way. I couldn’t risk it.”

Vlad laughed. “Monster, you say?” He stepped over to Caleb calmly.

Caleb narrowed his eyes. “Did I stutter, old man?”

“Have you forgotten I revoked our agreement?” Vlad stood tall against Caleb. “Why would you willingly walk to your death?” He laughed. “Especially with your little pregnant lover standing just outside?”

“What?” Caleb’s expression became fearful. I’m sure it reflected the face I made as well. How did he know?

Kris roared as he darted past Caleb, straight for Vlad. He pinned Vlad to a table and glared at him menacingly. “Leave them out of this! This is between us!”

Vlad growled and shoved Kris back. “Maybe so, but they willingly put themselves into this situation. Because Caleb always has to be the hero! He always has to save the day!” He glared angrily at Caleb. “Don’t you, Vatore? Social justice warrior?” He grabbed something from under the table and held it behind his back. He turned with his back to me and I realized he had grabbed a wooden stake. It had some type of dust or residue on it. “Or are you just avenging your precious sister’s death?”

Caleb’s entire facade fell. “W-what did you say?” He asked, trying to sound angry, but he was terrified. His words were choked. His voice hoarse.

“No, no,” I whispered. “He’s just toying with you. Getting your guard down. It’s the oldest trick in the book. Don’t fall for it!”

Kris stood straight. “That’s not true! I just saw her before I came here.”

It was as if Caleb didn’t even hear Kris’s words. He stepped closer to Vlad. “What did you say?” His eyes glowed fierce. I shook my head, just hoping he would realize.

Vlad grinned as Caleb moved even closer. Vlad gripped the stake tighter. “Did I stutter, young lad?” His grin turned into a menacing laugh. He quickly brought both of his hands out, grabbing Caleb tightly with one arm, pinning him against his body in a chokehold and driving the stake into Caleb’s chest.

I shot magic from my hand, hitting Vlad’s arm, forcing him to let go of the stake. Kris glanced outside and saw me. He nodded and ran to Caleb, pulling out the stake and stepping quickly onto Vlad’s chest.

“You were never a father to me,” He said angrily. “And now that I have the upper hand, I’ll prove it to you.” He stepped off of him and pulled him up. “Get up.” He quickly pinned Vlad against the wall. “You like doing this to others. Getting them into a position where they can’t fight back. How does it feel?”

I glanced at Caleb, who hadn’t gotten up. “Come on,” I whispered desperately. “Get up.” I wanted so badly to go in there, but I promised him I wouldn’t.

Lilith. I looked down the hill toward Wolfsbane Manor. I couldn’t now. There wasn’t time. I took my chances and screamed her name as loud as I could, catching everyone’s attention. I teleported into the house and right next to Caleb.

Vlad choked out a laugh. “He’s dead.”

“No he’s not!” I barked. “You didn’t get the stake deep enough.” I glared at him. “I made sure of it.”

Kris tightened his grip on Vlad. “I’m going to make sure you don’t hurt anyone else.” He raised his hand with the stake.

Caleb’s eyes fluttered as he started to wake up. He was weak. He glanced over at Kris and his eyes widened.

“What are you going to do?” Vlad asked, squirming in fear.

Kris grinned. “You know what I’m going to do. I just love seeing the fear in your eyes.” He leaned in closer. “Dad.”

“Kris!” Caleb sat up. “What are you doing?”

Kris didn’t even blink. He gazed into Vlad’s eyes as he drove the stake into his heart. “This,” he whispered. “That’s what I’m doing.” He let Vlad go and watched him fall into a heap on the floor. “You trained me to be a monster. I am the monster you created. I hope you’re happy.”

Caleb stared at him in complete shock. I did the same. But still, Kris was unphased. He turned to us.

“You…killed him,” Caleb said, in shock.

“I should have killed him a long time ago, Caleb,” he said, narrowing his eyes. “You and I both know that.”

Caleb just continued staring at him.

Kris sighed. “Jade, why are you here? It’s dangerous.”

“That doesn’t matter right now,” I said. “Besides, if it weren’t for me, we would have two dead bodies here.”

“Three,” Caleb choked out.

“Lilith isn’t dead, Caleb,” Kris knelt beside us. “He told you that to force your guard down. It worked.”

Caleb shook his head.

“Are you alright?” I asked.

“I just can’t believe it,” he gestured toward Vlad’s body.

Kris shrugged. “He almost killed you, Caleb. Do you think this would be the only time he would try?” He turned and faced the wall. “This feud would never be resolved. Never. This was the best option.”

Caleb glared at him. “Murder was the only way?”

“Yes, Caleb! Murder was the only way!” Kris shouted angrily.

Caleb stood up quickly, holding his wound. “What the hell is wrong with you?”

I followed him. “Caleb.”

“No.” He continued glaring at Kris. “You killed him, and you don’t even have any second thoughts?”

“Of course I have second thoughts!” Kris got in Caleb’s face. “But I did this to keep him from torturing us anymore!”

“Kris!” I shouted. “Caleb! Stop!”

Kris pulled away from Caleb, but Caleb started for him again. He was still incredibly weak and very dazed, but it didn’t stop him.

“What, Caleb?” Kris demanded. “You want me dead too? There’s the stake! Do it!”

I stepped back. “What?”

“If that’s what he wants, then I’ll let him!” Kris shouted.

Caleb stopped and stared at him. “I…” He shook his head, leaning as he gazed around. He looked like he was about to pass out. I grabbed him quickly to hold him steady. He looked back at Kris. “I would never hurt you.” He looked at Vlad again. “But you killed him. Why would you do that?”

Kris sighed and walked over to Caleb, helping me hold him steady. “Come on, buddy. Let’s go home and I’ll explain.” He started to walk with Caleb.

I placed my hands on their shoulders and whispered a spell, teleporting us into our living room.

“That works too,” Kris smiled, letting Caleb down on the couch.

“I’m feeling better,” Caleb said. “Low vampire energy though.” He winced.

I knelt down beside him. “Try not to move.” I pulled his shirt off of him and looked at his wound. I put my hands over it and closed my eyes, healing him.

“Have you ever had low energy, Kris?” Caleb asked, his words slurring slightly.

Kris shook his head, worried. “No, not that I’m aware of.”

Caleb laughed softly. “It’s like…being drunk.”

I glanced at him with a smile. “Then get your drunk ass to bed.”

“No,” he sat up. “Kris was going to explain something.”

Kris nodded. “Alright. I’m sorry I killed him, especially in front of a pacifist like you.” He sighed. “Part of it was in defense. Self defense, defense of you, defense of anyone else he ever had plans to hurt. Sure, I acted in anger, and I’m sorry, but I did what I felt I had to do.”

Caleb looked at the floor. “There could have been another way.”

Kris shrugged. “Honestly, buddy, once the shock wears off, I think you’ll understand why I felt there was no other way.”

Caleb sighed and shook his head. “You’re right…”

“You need rest,” Kris said, giving Caleb a concerned stare.

Caleb nodded. “Everything is fuzzy.”

Kris and I helped Caleb upstairs and into bed. I offered to sleep on the couch while he rested so Morgyn could also sleep in the bed, but Morgyn refused. He insisted I sleep in the bed. As Caleb got comfortable, I laid beside him, gazing up at him, worried.

He moved toward me and kissed my forehead. “Thank you,” he whispered.

I smiled. “Don’t thank me. You still being here is thanks enough.”

He pulled me closer and into a kiss. “What would I ever do without you?”

I giggled as he gazed at me with a cheeky smirk. “Well, I just don’t know, but I know what you’re not doing with me right now.” I grabbed his hand, which had wandered down my back toward the top of my buttocks. “Because, if low energy mimics drunkenness, I won’t allow that.” I kissed his nose. “And, you need rest to recover.”

“Party pooper,” he laughed softly.

I rested my head on his chest. “Hush.”

We both fell asleep quickly, and morning was upon us. I woke up to Caleb trailing his fingertips up my side. When I opened my eyes, he was lying on his side, smiling at me.

“Morning, my love,” he said quietly. I looked at his bare chest and saw he still had a wound. I placed my hands on it.

“Good morning,” I said, gazing up at him as I cast a healing spell.

He hissed in pain as the spell healed him. I wasn’t expecting that. I stopped.

“That spell is completely painless,” I said quietly.

He shook his head. “Keep going, it’s alright.”

I continued, and he winced. Once again, I stopped.

“Okay, maybe it’s the nature of the injury,” I said.

He sat up and put on his shirt. “Yeah,” he said, his voice hoarse as he winced again. I realized my spell had actually made it worse.

I sighed. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine,” he waved his hand, standing up. He seemed agitated. I assumed that was from the pain. He walked into the bathroom. I heard the water start to run as he got into the shower. Sighing again, I stood up.

I walked downstairs and flopped down on the couch, burying my face into the cushions.

Morgyn walked over to me. “Something wrong?”

“I’m confused by Caleb’s injury,” I looked up at him. “I used a healing spell this morning and he started wincing. It hurt him instead of healing him.

Morgyn furrowed his brow. “That’s odd.”

I nodded. “I’m not sure what’s going on.”

Morgyn walked over to the bookshelf quickly and pulled out a book I had never seen. He began to flip through the pages, nervously looking for something. I watched him, unsure of what he was looking for.

“Ah,” he said. “Here.” He sat down and began to read it aloud. “In some cases, such healing spells will harm the target. This occurs when the healing spell, which is white magic, encounters dark magic of any kind. Once this mixture has taken place…” he stopped and I noticed him swallow hard. “The, uh, the target may have some negative consequences. This can include death.”

“What?!” I sat up quickly. “No! I could have killed him?”

Morgyn held up his hand. “This, however, is very rare.” He read, “The most likely outcome is that the target’s dark magic will strengthen. This can cause a multitude of issues for the target, all of which cannot be covered here.” He slammed the book shut. “Dammit.”

“What is it?” I asked, confused and shocked.

“The last sentence was that there was no known cure or anecdote for this yet.” He began to pace. “Meaning all we can do is just watch.”

I sighed. “There’s always something…”

Caleb came downstairs. “I’m feeling better after that shower.” He smiled and put his arms around me. “Sorry for acting weird.”

I glanced at Morgyn over Caleb’s shoulder. “I’m sorry for hurting you.”

Caleb held me tighter. “It’s nothing. Maybe it’s just one of those things that needs to heal up on it’s own, eh?”

Morgyn motioned for me to tell Caleb. “Ahaha, yeah,” I laughed nervously. “Maybe.”

“Well, I’ll go make breakfast for us, alright?” He looked at me happily.

I smiled as he walked away.

“We need to tell him,” Morgyn protested.

I sighed. “How? Do I just say ‘oh hey, I shouldn’t have tried to help you. Now you have issues that we can’t fix’?”

Morgyn looked away. “You know what, you don’t need this. I’ll go tell him.”

I glanced outside. “I’ll be on the terrace.”

He walked over to me and kissed my forehead. “Don’t stress. You didn’t know.”

I nodded and walked outside. Sighing, I sat down at the table. We just couldn’t catch a break, could we? I placed my hand on my belly. Morgyn was right. We didn’t need this. None of us did. This was supposed to be a joyous time in our lives, and yet, here we were, still fighting the bad guys and some weird, unknown, dark force? Why?

“Why us?” I asked quietly. I stood up and looked out over the city. Morgyn and Caleb came out and walked over to me.

Caleb sighed and took my hands. “I don’t blame you,” he said. “But now we just move forward.”

I felt tears in my eyes. “Why do these things keep happening to us?”

He shook his head and pulled me close. “I don’t know.”

“I’ll leave you two alone,” Morgyn said, walking back inside.

Caleb gazed at me. “I’m okay, I promise. I feel much better after showering, the pain is gone. Maybe I got lucky, right? No side effects like Morgyn mentioned in that book.” He took my hand and placed it on his chest, where his wound was. “I promise.”

I kissed him. “I hope we are as lucky as you say.”

He nodded.

We stepped back in, and Morgyn and I kept our eyes on Caleb all day. He seemed to be fine. As the day gave way to the night, Caleb and I went upstairs again. Morgyn still wanted Caleb to rest the best he could.

Caleb and I got into bed and he pulled me close to him. He placed his hand on my belly and smiled. “I was good today, no?” He laughed quietly.

I laughed with him. “Yes, yes. You were good.”

“Good. So, no worrying, okay?” He gazed at me. “It’s not good-“

“For the baby,” I interrupted him. “Yes, I know.”

He grinned. “Maybe I’m still just a bit too protective.”

I shook my head, closing my eyes. “Not too protective. I understand.”

We kissed good night and fell asleep.

And that’s when the nightmare began.

Chapter Ten (click here)