Losing The Light Of The Moon

When Fate Calls...

Chapter 60: When Fate Calls...

AMELIA

After my conversation with Jillian, I decided to go to the Forest of The Vines to have a talk with Frieda. Standing in the clearing, my mind went back to our talk—a discussion I hoped Jillian had listened to closely. Her aura gave off a confusing mixture, making me fearful of her intentions where Mattias was concerned. I worried my spell had affected her to the point of making a decision that would ultimately cost Jillian her life...

Fortunately, it seemed she only felt sorry for the boy. I was envious of Jillian, she found a way to do something I couldn’t—move forward from the past. I wasn’t lying when I told the young girl I admired her heart—I did—it was the complete opposite of mine, which is why I warned her of any future decisions when it came to Mattias—decisions that could change what I had worked so hard to put in place. It was a rare moment of kindness for me, but I saw something in her—something I wished I could see in myself...

Pushing those thoughts out of my mind, I kindly greeted, “Hello, Frieda. I thought I would come by and give you an update on our plans.”

I’ve been anxiously awaiting your visit, Frieda’s aged, shaky voice replied, Have all the necessary plans been put in place?

“Yes, they have,” I confidently informed her, making sure to keep it veiled to protect the information as much as possible from any reach Tatiana’s visions may have, “My troublesome trio seem to be cooperating more. We have devised everything based on your suggestions, with a few tweaks. I’ve conjured up several visions to guide our decision so there should be minimal margin for error.”

And what of our plans for my beautiful fairy? Frieda intently asked, All is well on that front?

“While I understand your desire for irony in how we handle Tatiana,” I hesitantly replied, “I still feel it can be done differently—I would prefer it done differently, if I’m honest—but as you have graciously allowed me to utilize your forest, yes...all looks well.”

Taking in a deep breath, I continued, “I will inform the intended party of what needs to be done when the time comes and provide him with the means to complete our wishes. I find myself quite pleased with our choice for that part of the mission—especially as he will die at the hands of the Spirit Walker Beta soon after his work is done. His arrogance and cruel treatment of others paid for in kind, just as Tatiana will pay for her many sins against us.”

I would think you would be pleased both by ridding the world of a filthy, disgusting wolf that deserves death and the irony in our planned outcome for Tatiana, Frieda mused, Though admittedly, it is a shame—things could have been so different had she made the right decisions. Ah, well—all’s well that ends well, I suppose. My little fairy has everything forthcoming upon herself.

***********

NICHOLAS

Linking Madeline towards the end of our meeting, I requested that she distract Auntie by taking her to our room in the main house to show her where we hung one of her paintings so I could talk with Jace and Horacio for a moment about everything our beloved Fairy Queen was methodically putting in place...

Horacio gave us an update on what he had been able to find out—explaining to us the process of Auntie’s harness and separation abilities—enlightening us both about the internal self-control and masterful delegation that had to take place to accomplish the feat. I never realized the intricacies involved and what a toll it took on Auntie—something that left me more than a bit concerned for her well-being.

Following that, Horacio told us that there was another moment of connection between them and that, surprisingly, Auntie continued to be unaware of its occurrence.  While it did confirm she was telling the truth about only seeing the possibilities, it left me disappointed and worried that the picture of the battle ahead was still unclear...

“Believe me, I want more information just as much as both of you do,” Horacio sighed out, “But possibilities appear to be all we have as decisions are still being made. Tati seemed more philosophical this time—talking about control being mastered at a young age, a heart that believes it’s the intent that matters, treating magic as a gift to make it a positive act—all the stuff from that favorite quote of hers—she said that’s the reason the powers were gifted.”

Distractedly rubbing his dark stubbly cheek, Horacio stated, “The only other thing Tati said was she agreed this needed to be faced together—I just hope that’s true and not only a thought in her subconscious.”

“Unfortunately, for now, we are just going to have to rely on our patience,” I unevenly breathed out, “I believe Auntie when she says she will be forthcoming, but even with the answers we seek, we all know there is still a risk—decisions can and do change in the heat of battle—so we will have to be ready for that while also keeping a close eye on her to keep Auntie safe.”

“Agreed and your openness with us has helped tremendously, Horacio,” Jace appreciatively said, “Thank you for that—for everything—especially helping us in our effort to protect Mother.”

“You never have to thank me when it comes to protecting your mother—I love her and want to protect Tati always. But I will reluctantly admit, I’ve been incredibly grateful to have you both as a sounding board,” Horacio sincerely returned before playfully musing, “Although a bit surprised by today’s revelation about you, Jace—exploring your sorcery side, huh? We may have to vote you into Auntie’s army if your talents continue to expand.”

“I would actually consider that an honor,” Jace grinned, “While I agree it was an excellent call by Mother, I found myself a bit jealous of Caelus’ invitation earlier today. Their bond seems to be deepening—Mother adores him a great deal.”

Laughing under his breath, “Jealous of my nephew, are you? I can put in a good word with your mother to allow her son to join our army as well, if you would like.”

“I’m good, thanks,” Jace sarcastically retorted, “Besides, I’ve already figured out a technicality that may work to my advantage—the fairy tattoo to be utilized as the symbol of Auntie’s army happens to be the same as the one I already have! I believe that should give me an automatic in to join all of you in Auntie’s army!”

*********

TATIANA

While they tried to pull the wool over my eyes, I knew why I was standing in Nicholas and Madeline’s bedroom now—chatting with her about the painting while Horacio, Jace, and Nicholas were having a talk undoubtedly centered around their concern and desire to protect me—something I wish they wouldn’t allow to weigh so heavily on their hearts.

However, soon after that thought hit my mind, something else hit me, sending me falling yet again to the ground next to Madeline, my knees buckling, hitting the floor hard as a new vision pummeled its way heavily into my conscience—and onto my heart. I saw Madeline’s panicked expression hovering above me just before everything around me phased into a blurred black as my mind took control, the outside world nonexistent as pictures played out in my mind...

Thanks to our spell, I saw Amelia at the Forest of The Vines—her thoughts of Jillian, shocked as it seemed she was trying to protect Mattias’ mate. But then I saw and heard her discussion with Frieda about their forthcoming plans, overly cautious in their wording to keep the specifics veiled. They were obviously trying to hide the information from me, their instincts dead on that I would work tirelessly to discover them—learning that their plans included a bit of irony to be executed on me—not realizing that because of those decisions, a bit of irony would more than likely be invoked upon them as well...

But one thing rang out clear in between, drawing intensity to my attention in response—Horacio was mentioned—Amelia revealed that she too had a vision—a vision where Horacio killed one of their own—and based on what was said, I had a feeling I knew who the victim was—Arturo.  While she was the last person I ever expected to protect Jillian, maybe it would be the one decision she had made correctly all these years...

As I heard my name mentioned again by Amelia with a reference made to my sins, I felt a faint pressure enveloping around my body—not from my vision in the far reaches of my mind, but something in my physical reality before I felt completely weightless just as the vision changed—a vision so heavy, nothing else existed...

I saw the Forest of The Vines again and Amelia was there—only this time, I was there with her, standing across from her at a distance. She looked smug, like she had the upper hand—but I had the same expression—confident and sure. While her mouth moved to form the words, I couldn’t hear them, but my reaction was clear...worried as I looked towards Frieda’s house, but I couldn’t see the dilapidated stone home, leaving me unable to understand why—is that where Mattias and Guntur would be? As I looked back at Amelia’s satisfied grin, all went dark—the vision changed once more...

As it turns out, I had been right in my assumption—Horacio was shifted, his gargantuan black wolf chasing down Arturo’s stout brown one with a vengeance, but just before he got to him, Arturo used a portal bean to make his escape—Horacio momentarily stopping in front of the opening in the tree, looking back at me worriedly before diving in to follow our enemy, and then all faded to black...

I pushed harder to see where Horacio had gone—needing to know he was alright—suspecting Arturo escaped to Amelia’s. It was then that I saw two stilled pictures—one of which was only a momentary flash—Horacio’s massive jaw on Arturo’s neck—a victory for one, death for the other. 

The other picture, however, made my heart stop—a dungeon of some sort—two jail cells—the fearful faces of Mattias and Guntur that appeared to be covered in black—and I was standing in front of them—my face also covered as it appeared I was fighting to free them, my expression reflecting great difficulty, my whole body glowing green. I was attempting to scrutinize the image, searching for more clues, but, unfortunately, it was stolen from me as everything went dark...

And that's when I heard it—the sound of my past—the sound of my own voice—fate dictating to me as it had done long ago when I was a child—words that I had hoped never to hear again—words that would affect everyone around me—words that would bring forth danger and fear I had fought so hard to control and keep inside—especially since Soloman’s death...the one person I needed most right now was no longer here—the keeper of my secrets...

There was so much still that was unknown. I decided that I would keep this part of the vision hidden for now, alone in my thoughts, only revealing it once I knew for sure...

I was left stunned by what happened next, left in disbelief and the deep desire to stay for as long as I heard that voice—his voice—Soloman’s voice...

You have never been alone, my beautiful Winged Fairy, he slowly drawled out in his low, kind tone, I’ve always been with you—we all have—you know that. You have felt it, Tati. I have remained quiet, until now—a time when it appears you need me most.

My tone was almost child-like in my soft reply, I don’t want to do this, Soloman—I’ve never wanted to do this. Why am I possibly being forced to do it now?

As it always was when we broached this subject, Soloman’s tone was calm and comforting as he advised, We talked about it, Tati. You knew the day might come that fate would expect its intended plan to be carried out despite your attempts to derail it. You have always been brave and fought so hard to protect and do the right thing for everyone—everyone but yourself.  What was true then is not true now...just as Tati then is not the same Tati now. That’s why the time has come! Truthfully, you have always been ready for this—but there were reasons beyond your control for stopping it. Fate has finally decided that the rest of the world is ready for your true purpose, my darling! But in order to do that, you have to put the past to rest!

My reply was thick with my internal despair, I had always said that I would do what needed to be done if there was a purpose for it. After all these years, that is still true, Soloman. I have to have the full picture to know for sure. Nothing has changed in my resolve—I will fight for the purpose of magic’s gift—the intent will always be a positive act, even if it means I must sacrifice myself for that intent.

Which is why I have come to you now, my darling girl, Soloman earnestly stated, to show you the purpose—to show you why this will need to be done...

It was then that another burst of green came forth—a vision of the past—from the forest by the Howling Wind training field—just after Frieda saw the triplets fall, at my hand—selfishly forsaking Nimue as time was of the essence—inaudibly chanting out the incantation that has provided her the reprieve from death all these years—the purpose Soloman spoke of—a gift from the man I loved like a father—who gave me the insight to what I now knew needed to be done...

I know you will choose the right road when the time comes because I know you, Soloman lovingly returned, but don’t go into this with the decision of sacrifice already made. Continue to fight YOUR fight, Tati! Remember to BELIEVE! Always believe in YOU and who you are inside—MY TATI—my sweet girl who I always loved as my own, and you will see what needs to be done! It’s time to fly, my darling. Be brave, be safe, be strong, and trust in the family you have built and have all around you. They need you, Tati, and you need them—the time has come to put all of this behind you for good. Sparkle and shine, just as you did for me, my Winged Angel!

I love you so very much, Soloman, I devotedly replied, and I will always fight, just like you taught me. I will make you proud, I promise!

My heart fell as Soloman’s deep voice began to fade, They will all understand—your family will all still love you—there will be no reason not to. You will know when the time is right to tell them, but please don’t wait until it’s too late. Carry me with you as you always have and know that our love still surrounds you—your parents, Julien, and me—we will do what we can to protect you from afar...there will be challenges to face, so be ready...

The sounds almost inaudible as they faintly echoed in my mind, Soloman’s last words and tone thick with love and adoration were exactly the same as the last time we parted—the day he left me on this earth without him, I believe in you and love you to the moon and back, my beautiful Winged Angel...ALWAYS...

My whole life had been about timing, especially during the dark periods—and thanks to my beloved Soloman, my current path was made clear—a shift in my plans that would indeed include irony. Fate was coming for me again—coming to force my hand with Frieda to finally put the past to rest. And I will be ready for it...

Hopefully, in the end, Soloman will be right—my family will not only understand what I continued to keep hidden, but the how and the why—I was going to need my family to survive...I needed them now and I would need them even more when this was all over...to love and trust me like Soloman did—forever his Winged Angel...

*********

I heard vague, frightened voices as I slowly began my return to the physical world—apparently, much more time had passed than I realized...

“Are you sure we shouldn’t take her to the hospital or at least have Talon come here?” Madeline’s anxious voice indistinctly echoed in my head, “She’s been unconscious too long.”

“I’m afraid I’m with Madeline on this now, you two. It’s never taken Auntie this long to recover,” I heard Nicholas softly reply, though his tone was full of alarm. I wondered if the slight warmth I felt wrapped around my hand was his, as there was a feeling of gentle coinciding movement of what felt like a thumb against the top of it as he spoke.

“Come on, Mother, you’re making me and everyone else incredibly nervous right now. Please, open your eyes for us,” Jace’s overwhelmed and unsettled voice spoke up next. I found myself unable to fulfill his request but could feel that my hair was being tenderly combed through with fingers.

I felt pressure around my body again—the feeling more substantial now—familiar strong arms and tight grip—I was being held—cradled in the arms of my Horacio.

“Tati,” his deep affectionate voice softly rang out, “Last warning, love. If you don’t open your eyes, I’ll have no choice but to give in and take you to the hospital—I’m even willing to take a chance and provoke you with the p-s-p word at this point.”

“N-no, T-Tal-on,” I managed to force out in a garbled, broken, hoarse whisper as the darkness dissipated slightly.

Horacio pulled me tighter in his chest—I could feel the warmth and comfort radiating from his body—exhaling out in relief, “There she is! At least I know the right threat to use with you now.”

“I may have to remember that one,” Jace comfortingly whispered from above me as I realized his fingers were the ones on top of my head, “Keep talking to us, Mother.”

“Auntie,” Nicholas soothingly urged, my hand being softly squeezed, “Try to get those beautiful brown eyes of yours open for us.”

I then heard an unexpected voice, Alastor’s, as he kindly stated as I felt a gentle touch laid upon the top of my leg, “Yes, please try, Auntie! I need to see the stunning sparkling gaze of my Winged Angel.”

After a slight pause, he said, “Worrisome as this is, thank you for holding up your end of our agreement, Nicholas. Though I didn’t expect it to be enacted so quickly, I’m very grateful to be here to make sure Auntie is alright.” 

“I’m thankful for your agreement as well,” Vivian softly said in a downhearted tone, “I’m still not sure we shouldn’t have Talon look at her.”

“She’s so pale, Jace,” Constance fearfully breathed out from behind me, “I feel the same—and I’m worried I should let Tink know—she will be very upset if she finds out we kept this from her—it’s not easy keeping secrets from my sister.”

I fell into a bit of confusion and worry as I continued the attempt to regain my senses, brokenly blowing out, “N-no, please. I’ll b-be f-fine. W-Where a-am I?”

“You’re in our room, Auntie,” Madeline sweetly replied, “You gave us all quite the scare, which is why, I’m afraid, you are surrounded currently—Nicholas, Alastor, Vivian, Jace, Constance, and I are right beside you. Horacio has you in his arms, so just relax, alright?”

My head fell backwards slightly in my weakened state, but continued to be firmly supported by Horacio’s solid frame, as his face felt like it came closer to mine. As his fingers gently caressed my cheek, Horacio’s sweet breath breezed across my lips, “Open your eyes, love.”

Finally, my eyes fluttered open, Horacio’s loving gaze slowly becoming clearer, peering down at me before he kissed me lightly on the lips, affectionately encouraging me in the softest of tones, “That’s my girl! Where have you been, hmmmm? You’ve got some explaining to do, beautiful! Good thing we all love you—more than you could ever know!”