Winged Angel

Chapter 8

“Magic has slowly made it’s way back into the kingdom.” Rebecca finally said when we sat on my bed. Tanisha was standing at the head of the bed. Rebecca right beside me and Rachelle was sitting at my feet. “It is something that has been disappearing for years but seems to be coming back.”

“It was said your mother was the key to the magic of the realms. Something very few of us knew. When she passed the magic began declining. Well at least that’s what my mom told me.” Tanisha spoke.

“We are not sure but the mages of our people are slowly getting there powers back as well. There not sure who has the gift of healing though so it is troubling them. Most of those that have magic are element benders. Water benders can heal but not like what they witnessed with me.” Rebecca said with a smile.

“My brother has fire. I remember him almost burning our house down a few times.” Rachelle smiled.

“So the mages live outside the kingdom?” I asked.

“Yes, said to be a secret island or something they reside in. Many who find out they have gifts go there to train and almost never return home.” Rachelle said a little upset. “I haven’t seen my brother for 10 years now.”

“So magic only comes from there then?” I asked trying to understand magic. I knew I would have to be extra careful as I didn’t want to be taken away from my family.

“It wasn’t always like that.” A Male voice spoke from the door. We all looked up to see the king walking in. “The mages use to live amongst us.”

“Sir.” The guards spoke as they stood and saluted him.

“At ease ladies, at ease.” He chuckled as he sat down in a chair that was left from when Alex and Jessica where sitting with me. “The mages are worried that this new found magic will bring destruction to our world as many of the fresh born are getting stronger then those before them.”

“So that’s why they left for safety of the kingdom.” Rachelle asked.

“Yes, they always wanted to make there own area anyways but with the surge of power from the new comers it was for the best.” Papa spoke gently. “ Now this was well before many of you where born when they moved. It has only happened recently that things aren’t coming and going from there like they should.”

“Do you think this new magic is a threat?” Tanisha asked gently.

“No I think it’s just fear talking. It’s something new none of us have experienced. I have done my research and know that magic like this once use to walk our lands. In old text it says that those that had magic like that did something bad causing there powers to be stripped. Only one mage in all the universe will have those powers.” Papa some with a smile. “it also says that the magic one day will flourish back into mages and element bending won’t be the only magic people can have.”

“Is there any idea who that person is that healed Rebecca. I would love to thank them.” I gently asked. His eyes fell on me. I didn’t move or squirm. I stayed still as best I could.

“No one but the person who did it knows I’m afraid.” He said with a frown. “I wish they would come talk to me about it though for I to would like to thank them.”

“Me three, I mean they did save my life.” Rebecca said with a smile.

“Now if you would excuse me I must return to my studies. We have a lot to discuss.” Papa spoke. “Before I go I must speak with Avery alone.”

“Of course sir.” The three of my guards spoke as they got up and left. I looked at them leave before fear struck me. I was alone with a man I knew very little about and I think he knows my secret.

“easy honey,” Papa spoke as he placed his hand on mine. I looked over at him. “I am not going to scold you.”

“Oh,” I gently said.

“Yes I know it’s you that has the magic everyone fears but no one should. Your mother also had the same. She never used it like you did. Most of the time it was used only to keep you children or me safe from danger and that was almost never.” Papa gently chuckled. “I just want you to be careful. Right now you and me are the only two that know about your gifts.”

“Am I going to be sent away.” I asked as tears started to form in my eyes. He got up and wrapped his arms around me. He was holding me for the first time and I felt safe. It was like father’s hug back home but I felt much safer in papa’s arms.

“No one will ever take you away from me again.” Papa spoke gently as he kissed the top of my head. “ I lost you and your brother once I will not let it happen again.”

“Papa when will my wings come in.” I asked gently. His wings where so neatly tucked behind him I barely noticed they where there.

“When they are ready honey. I'm Sure they will come out soon.” He smiled at me as he rose. “I will send the girls back in.”

“Papa,” I said remembering the symbol.

“Yes honey.” He said turning to me.

“The symbols on the creatures that attacked looked familiar. A snack trapped in bulls horns I guess is the best way to describe it.” I said gently. He face brightened into a huge smile.

“I’m glad you where able to see it.” He said with a chuckle. “We have been trying to spot the symbol for years but no one could get a clear image or be able to describe it.”

“Glad I was able to help.” I smiled at him.

“Avery you are always a big help. Don’t ever thing you a nuisance, a pain or in the way because that’s never going to be true.” Papa said walking back to me. He planted a kiss on the top of my head again. “I am glad your home to stay.”

“Thanks papa.” I smiled happily as I watched him leave before my girls where sent in. Rebecca had a bag in her hand. She passed it to me and I realized it was the bag with the purse in it.

“Mark says we can go tomorrow. He thinks it will brighten the people up to see the royals walking among them specially after what has happened.” Rebecca smiled. “We have to bring my brother along as well.”

“I can go to the city tomorrow?” I asked all excited. Rebecca smiled with me and nodded. I was soon fed supper before I was forced to rest. They wanted to make sure I had enough sleep before we went tomorrow.

Jessica and Alex came and argued with each other again the next morning. I sat with them smiling as I ate my breakfast. I was so happy to go. I wanted to see the sights and learn about my home. I mean yes to shop here and get things I like will be nice to. The stuff I had to chose from where okay but not great.

When they left I quickly got ready. I found a beautiful spaghetti strap royal purple summer dress. It was cinched in at the waist before it pleated out. I quickly threw my hair up into a messy bun and found a simple specialy made flat. Jessica had them brought for me a few days after I woke up. I loved them better then shoes from home. They where light as feather but protected the feet nicely.

“Are you ready?” Rebecca asked walking in. I smiled at her as we walked out. Everyone was in beautiful summer dresses even Mark and Rebecca's Brother where out of uniform. I quickly raced back into my room and grabbed my purse before walking back to them.

“So this is a very dangerous thing we are about to do.” Mark gently spoke as he rubbed the back of his neck with his hand. “We are the only ones that know we are heading out.”

“This isn’t going to go over well.” Tanisha sighed.

“Would explain why you asked us to dress as regular wing.” Rebecca spoke .

“I don’t know if this is a good idea.” Rachelle said.

“We do this together. I know you will all keep me safe. Plus I feel the people of this kingdom need something to make them happy.” I spoke as we started down the hall way. It was a game of hide and seek. Every movement had us scrambling for cover.

“Alright that was exciting.” Andrew whom I found out was Rebecca’s brother said. I just smiled as I looked up at the castle. It was huge and beautiful. The flowers where so happy and healthy. I just smiled wildly.

“That smile makes it all worth it.” Mark chuckled as we began to walk down the path. It was beautiful, everything was beautiful.

The castle was boarded off with cedar and beautiful oak fencing. The air was sweet with fragrance from many flowers and the birds chirped all happily as the hopped from tree to tree. The houses where all unique in there own way, the moment we stepped through the gate. The streets where busy with bustle. People where running this way and that. Wings where everywhere. It was so beautiful. My group decided they would put there wings away to keep me safe. It was going to be hard enough to explain why my wings weren’t out never mind where they were.

“Alright we do this safely and peacefully. We don’t attract attention and we keep together.” Mark said gently as he began to look around. He took up the rear as Andrew stood in front. Rebecca stood with me as Tanisha and Rachelle stood on either side. This was going to be exciting.

Andrew took us to all the sights. I got to see the first ever church built. It was beautiful and not a speck on the wall. It has been well maintained. Said to have house the first choir of Winged. He showed us the new church where everyone went to worship once a week. I was shown the beautiful human gardens. I had to admit looked like many of the flower gardens I saw back home.

Next was a water fountain where we where to make a wish. Mark handed me a coin so I could make a wish. I did so quickly as I was the last to wish. He smiled before we kept going. We then went to a museum where I learnt a lot about the culture of Winged people. It was nothing like I though but now I understand why Alex said we weren’t Angel’s.

“Alright Andrew it’s time to eat something.” Mark called gently when he tried to lead us down the road to another monument her wanted to show me.

“Come on man one more.” Andrew joked.

“Nope Avery is hungry.” Mark called even though it was a bit of a struggle not to say princess. My guards had no issues but the two boy let it slip a lot.

“Let’s eat something and then we can head that way.” I was more tired then hungry. I have never been out having so much fun. Rebecca noticed it more then anyone but I think Mark had an idea.

“If your tired we can head back now.” She gently said so only I would hear.

“Just some food and I’m sure I’ll be okay to go a bit more. I want to see everything. Who knows when I’ll be able to return.” I told her with a smile. She smiled back at me but I knew she didn’t like the idea.

“To a restaurant Andrew.” Rebecca spoke stern before Andrew could complain again. I could see him shutting his mouth. He smiled when he noticed I was looking and began to lead us down a few streets. At the end was a beautiful little picnic are with a food truck. Well that’s at least what we would call them back home. Not sure if it’s the same here.

“Best food in the area will always come from a food truck.” Andrew piped up leading us to a table. I was so happy to just sit and I knew that is why Rebecca forced me to.

“Order her something healthy, and I’ll have the same.” Rebecca spoke as she sat beside me. She wouldn’t let me get up to look. Mark and Andrew looked at us before they nodded. Rachelle and Tanisha followed them to order there own food. “If I need to I will get them to sneak us out again if your to tired to keep going.”

“No I’m okay. I just need to eat something.” I smiled at her. She didn’t seem convinced.

“If we get caught out here you know they will have a lot to say.” She spoke looking back at the other four. “That’s going to be tiring as well.”

“I know, don’t worry.” I smiled at her. I could just imagine the lecture I was going to get once I got back. I’m sure Alex is going to rip my ears off.

“I ordered why don’t you go and order for the both of you.” Andrew said as he jogged over. Rebecca was hesitant but decided it would be for the better.

“I need to go to the washroom.” I told Andrew. He was hesitant but nodded. He threw up his pinky and Mark nodded. His hand reached for mine and he lead me over to a small building. The small shocks caused me some confusion but they felt good.

“Single use. I’ll stand right outside the door.” Andrew smiled happily. I just nodded as I quickly went in and did my business.

“Thank you.” I said exiting the bathroom. He smiled.

“Do you have authority to use the bathroom.” A voice spoke catching me off guard.

“We are just around the corner ordering food.” Andrew spoke politely as he gently pulled me behind him. I grabbed the back of his shirt in fear. The voice of these man scared me.

“That doesn’t answer my question.” He spoke again.

“Oh are they not part of the hospitality the food truck offers? I thought they where. That’s my fault.” Andrew said again.

“Where are your wings?” He spoke.

“My princess here has just got out of the hospital. The Doctors have asked to keep her wings hidden. She has been locked up in a room for many days. With it being such a lovely day we thought we would bring her out. I have hidden my wings so she doesn’t feel sad about not having hers right now.” Andrew spoke the part lie so well.

“Very well. Sorry, for intruding but with so many things going on in the town and the last attack on the castle we are on edge about wingless Wings.” He spoke with a sigh.

“We thank you for your continuing protection. With soldiers like you around makes us feel safe.” I gently spoke popping my head around Andrew not so afraid now.

“Thank you miss. That sure does mean a lot.” He smiled tipping his hat. “Wish everyone like you understood what we are doing.”

“I wish they did to. Keep up the good work.” Andrew said with a salute. The soldier returned it before he left. “I have never been so scared in my life.”

“Why?” I asked a little worried.

“What we are doing today is considered treason. We have literally kidn*pped you from the castle.” Andrew spoke with a cheeky smile. “It is dangerous if we get caught.”

“I’ll make sure it falls on my shoulders not yours if we do. Lets head back to the group.” I told him. He smiled as he grabbed my hand and lead me back. Rebecca was standing at the table with her arms crossed tapping her foot.

“I leave you alone for a few seconds and you are running away with her.” She spoke angrily.

“I had to use the washroom.” I piped up before he could say anything.

“Andrew why don’t you help the others grab the food.” Rebecca said as she lead me back to the table. He nodded and walked away. I felt bad.

“You should be kinder with him.”

“I know he just frustrates me so much. I get so nervous when he is around you.” Rebecca said with a sigh. “If I cant protect you from them demons I know he has no chance. I can beat him.”

“Sometimes strength doesn’t determine the outcome of the battle field. Its what’s inside a person.” I told her gently. “You where distracted and outnumber. That wasn’t your fault. If only I had waited or looked around none of that would have happened.”

“I should have been better prepared. There is so much that could have gone worse.” She said with a sigh. “One good thing that has happened though is Andrew now trains twice as hard as he use to. He takes his job seriously.”

“He was so worried about you that day.” I told Rebecca remembering him pace outside her room. “I think he feels it’s his fault for slacking off and not being strong enough to protect you.”

“I bet.” She smiled.

“Rebecky.” A young voice called causing us both to look around. Not even a block away a younger boy was running towards us. He had to be 10 or 11. Rebecca giggle as she rose. I followed her not really sure what was happening.

The young boy stopped a small distance from us and stared at me. I looked at him before looking at Rebecca who looked up at me confused. I look back at the boy with a smile causing him to smile right back at me before happily running to Rebecca's outstretched arms. She lifted him up as she rose.

“What are you doing here? Are you being naughty like Andrew and running away from Jasper?” Rebecca asked. I looked at the young boy and saw the resemblance and new this had to be the younger brother Andrew was talking about.

“Who the pretty lady?” He asked all shy. Rebecca chuckled.

“That’s Avery.” She said gently.

“Can I have a kiss.” He asked pointing to his cheek. I smiled and obliged.

“Look at him, only 10 and has the girls already falling for him.” Andrew chuckled as he put our food down. “I trained him well.”

“So this was your doing?” Rebecca said looking at him as her brother wiggled out of her arms. He ran over to me with his arms up. I lifted him which allowed him to hug me. He rested his head on the crook of my neck.

“Wait what?” Andrew said obviously confused. “The cuteness is what I was talking about. Where’s Jason?”

“I ran away from him.” The young boy spoke. I shook my head as the two kept hollering at each other. I noticed a guy a block or so down frantically looking for something.

“Is that Jason?” I asked pointing the man’s way. The little boy nodded causing me to start walking that way.

“Jason.” I called once we where close. The man looked at us and ran over.

“Thank you so much.” Jason said out of breath as he grabbed the boys hand. I had put him down before he got to us. “This boy has spent to much time with Andrew.”

“I can tell.” I laughed gently.

“You shouldn’t be on the street alone.” Jason said causing me to look around. I cringed when I saw no one was beside me. I really need to be more mindful.

“They are just down the street.” I told him pointing down the street to realize that down the street wasn’t the right word. I couldn’t see them.

“She came from my favorite food truck.” The boy spoke.

“Come I will walk you back.” Jason smiled as he pointed back up the street. I smiled as I walked in line. The young boy switched hands so he could grab mine as well. I chuckled lightly as I was able to find out a few things about Jason. Guess he was Rebecca's other half and he was madly in love with her.

“Avery,” Rachelles voice hit me causing me to look up. She was running up to me. “Jesus you are going to get us all killed.”

“Sorry it was just down the street I thought.” I told her as she wrapped her arms around me.

“We need to get back.” Rachelle spoke sending a smile to Jason.

“I’ll walk the rest of the way with you.” Jason said as we walked quickly. It was just around the corner. The table was there with Rebecca guarding the food. She was so mad when she saw me. I could tell it was going to boil over. Jason however had his own idea. He kissed her causing her to loose all train of thought. “Sorry honey bee. She was chasing me.”

“Thank you for walking her back to us.” Rebecca smiled at him before she turned to me. “Again you take off without anyone noticing. I don’t like this. Soon it’s going to be a leash and collar.”

“Rebecky, shes a human not a pet.” Little brother chuckled. Rebecca glared at him before forcing me to eat the chicken caser salad she bought for me. Jason went and ordered something for him and little guy who sat beside me waiting. Rebecca and Rachelle left to find the others.

“So Rebecca’s brother…”

“Tarik,” he smiled. “They didn’t introduce me.”

“Tarik what’s the best thing about being Winged.” I asked him as I took a bite.

“Being able to fly.” He smiled shuffling his wings. They where a beautiful green and blue. He had two different shades of each in swirls. I smiled happily as he tucked them back away.

“Where are your wings?” he gently asked.

“I had an accident that has taken them from me for now. Soon I will have them out.” I told him figuring to keep with the story Andrew had set.

“I bet they are going to be as beautiful as you.” He gently chuckled. I blushed as Jason joined us. He looked at me then him then back at me before sighing.

“Will you leave the poor young lady alone. Women as bright as a tomato in public don’t look good.” Jason gently said.

“Oh, sorry Avery.” Tarik said with a smile. I smiled with him as he began to eat his hot dog. The others soon joined us, all of them grumbling as the ate. Mark looked like he was going to eat me. His glare was making me uneasy. Tanisha elbowed him causing him to drop his glare.

We all ate in silence allowing the busy bustle of the street to flood in. I didn’t really like it. I was upset I left my guards behind again and more upset I worried all of them. Not something I intended but it was what happened. I wish I could calm them and make them understand I was okay. I sighed, it was going to be a lost cause. I won’t be surprised if Mark makes me March right back up the street and into the castle again once we where done. I didn’t want that. We where yet to do some shopping and I wanted to get a few things.

“Avery playing with your food won’t get us going any quicker.” Mark gently spoke as he sat back. I looked over at him and he was smiling. “The shopping centers are just around a few corners and we are losing daylight.”

“I still have so much to show you.” Andrew piped up as he began to clear plates.

“Let’s go then.” I said just about to get up. Rebecca grabbed my shoulders and forced me down. I had only eaten a quarter of my salad.

“Nope, we are not going anywhere till you are finished.” She said warningly. I nodded as I began to eat. Rachelle lightened the mood by teasing Rebecca and Jason. Mark was watching me again but with gentler eyes. I think he realised that I was feeling uncomfortable the last time.

“Alright now I’m done.” I said after swallowing my last bite. I grabbed my bottle and put it in my purse before we started out. Jason stood beside Rebecca as Tarick stood beside me. He glared at anyone looking my way.

We where able to shop and I found so many cool things. I got a bunch of outfits I could mix and match. I also found some stuff to help keep my mind active on days I wouldn’t be aloud to go out. I was a little upset when no one but me was shopping but they held only bags. I bought a few things as gifts for later. I knew my guards birthday was coming up and Alex.