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Post by MrsCarterRivera on Apr 20, 2023 10:47:08 GMT -5
Chapter Sixteen
“I won!” I laughed, spinning to face Mason, the pins still rattling behind me. He was laughing and the smile on his face made my heart centre sing. He moved forward and I found myself reaching for him. Mason gently snagged my hands and pulled me against his chest. I couldn’t help the sudden shyness that washed over me as I pressed against his chest, glancing away. But Mason merely slipped his fingers beneath my chin and tilted my face up to his. His eyes searched me, drank in every detail in a way that would normally have me cringing with self-conscious embarrassment, but instead had every nerve ending in my body tingling. He dipped his head to mine and my eyes fluttered shut as his lips brushed against mine. Softly at first, testing the waters. I didn’t dare move, not until his tongue swiped my bottom lip; I eagerly parted mine, hand shifting to rest against his sure and steady heartbeat - it was nowhere near as frantic as mine and it amazed me again how cool and composed Mason could be. The rest of the bowling alley, the chatter and the smash of heavy balls against pins, faded into nothingness, and all I could touch and taste and know was Mason Davies. My knees were weak when he broke the kiss, still staring down at me, hazel eyes almost gleaming. I hadn’t noticed the flecks of green until now. “Be mine, Diannah Bonewhite,” he murmured. “Don’t make me beg.” The corner of his lip lifted. “Unless you want me to?” I smiled and leaned up, kissing him again. “I’m yours.”
—-
I couldn’t stop smiling the entire way home. Mason reached out, taking my hand and holding it, steering with his left hand. He couldn’t seem to take his eyes off me either, repeatedly glancing across until I’d laughed and told him to focus on the road. “I can’t help it,” he grinned back. “You’re too beautiful.” /Too/ beautiful. I hadn’t been told that before. I blushed again. Before long, the large iron gates appeared, already open in anticipation of our return. The nerves hit then, as we crawled through the gate and up the gravel drive. My entire family, Guardians included, were gathered in the kitchen and all eyes turned to us when we walked in, hand in hand. Mum beamed instantly. Dad and Grandad exchanged nods. Remi, leaning back against the counter with his arms folded, looked smug. I stuck my tongue out at him. Kyrie was the only one who wasn’t there. “So?” Fleur tilted her head. “How did it go?” I blushed but somehow managed to keep my composure when I answered. “Good. It was fun.” Fleur rolled her eyes and turned to Mason. “Is it official?” He nodded, a grin threatening to break out. I groaned, hiding my face as I turned away. “You guys make everything so /weird/.” Laughter bloomed behind me, contagious enough that I was also grinning when I turned back. “We need to celebrate!” Mum made her way to the wine cabinet, perusing the bottles on offer. “Congratulations,” Grandad said, coming over to shake Mason’s hand and I resisted the urge to duck my head. “We’re not married yet, Grandad,” I muttered, as Mason smiled and thanked him. I was so glad Oli never had to witness the utter cringey ceremonial traditions my family liked to uphold. I didn’t doubt Mason’s family were the same, the ease he was taking everything in. Mum handed me a glass of wine, blue eyes glazed with tears. “Oh, baby girl. Remember your mother is always right. You can thank me later.” “Can I be a bridesmaid?” Fleur asked in my ear and I turned to look at her. She’d shrank herself down again, balancing carefully on my shoulder with her little wings fluttering furiously. “Fleur, we’ve literally gone on one date.” “There’s no point wasting time, Dee,” she replied sagely. “You’re not going any younger, you know.” “I’ve already bookmarked some dresses online,” Mum mused, inspecting my figure with own hand on her hip and the other holding her wine aloft. Then, she gasped. “Next year’s Gathering? That would be the perfect time for the wedding.” Oh my Gods. I grimaced and turned to my Dad pleadingly. He let out a laugh and moved over to take his wife by the shoulders. “And that’s enough tormenting our only child.” Mum pouted but thankfully took the hint. “Come on, Fleur.” She and her Guardian went back to preparing the food with Grandad. Dad turned to Mason. “I’ve got some stuff to show you that I’ve been working on, if that’s alright?” Mason smiled, hand resting on the small of my back. “Sure. I’ll catch you up, Diannah.” He kissed the side of my head. As Dad and Mason went to tinker with a few gadgets, Mum and Grandad occupied with the meal, I slipped through the basement door and headed down the stone steps. It was a lot colder down here, goose bumps rising on my arms, which I rubbed to fight the chill. Kyrie was knelt beside the open Spring when I left the stairs. He glanced up and I saw his eyes widen a little as he took me in with a single sweep of his gaze. The dress I was wearing suddenly felt too short, too thin, and I angled myself away a little to inspect the monitors. “Everything good?” He looked away, jaw tightening. “Yes.” “... Are /you/ okay?” I couldn’t look at him. For some reason, I was trembling. I felt as if I’d done something wrong, made some faux pas I didn’t even know about... “I’m fine. Go back and enjoy your celebrations.” The dismissal in his words had heat blooming. I turned to face him, brow creased as hurt stung in my chest. “... I know you’re new to all of this, but you don’t have to be so mean.” I straightened a little, trying to find some courage within I knew didn’t exist. Kyrie looked up, silent. “Ever since the Necris attack, you’ve... What have I done wrong? I thought we were friends.” “/What?/“ The look of disbelief on his face was excruciating. And for some stupid reason, I couldn’t stop talking. “I don’t know if demons have friends but I figured maybe you didn’t know how to /have/ friends, n-now that you’re a Grim Reaper. And that’s fine, but-“ “I don’t /want/ your friendship.” I blinked, and fear uncurled in my stomach when Kyrie stood. “I don’t want to join your celebrations.” I took an uncertain step back as he approached, heart jammed in my throat. His eyes were shadowed, the bright flicker of silver entirely gone. For a heartbeat, I sensed a flicker of his past self. “I don’t want or /need/ you interfering with what I’m here to do. So keep going on your stupid little dates and stay out of my way.” My throat tightened, eyes prickling at the corners. I blinked them away, trying to steady my rapid breathing. “O-Okay.” I swore a look of surprise parted the shadows in his eyes but then it was gone. He turned away and I nearly staggered as I made for the stairs. My heart pounded against my ribs and I wanted to throw up. How could I be so stupid? Kyrie night have looked like me, but I didn’t know the type of Being he truly was. Not quite demon, not quite spirit. Human in appearance alone. Remi had been right. Kyrie was damaged in ways I couldn’t even begin to fathom. The sudden change in his personality... From the young man I’d duelled with to the one spitting those words just moments ago; I simply didn’t understand. The kitchen was empty when I returned and I made it to my room without anybody seeing me. I was crying before I even reached the door.
—-
I somehow managed to compose myself by the time Mason came to fetch me for dinner. I couldn’t stop replaying what had happened, analysing every word Kyrie had said. /I don’t want or /need/ you interfering with what I’m here to do/. Did he simply mean the training he was here to undertake, or something else? A prickle of worry had crept down my spine. What if Remi had been right the whole time? He’d arrived not long before the murder and the missing God... And if that was the case, why mention my date at all? To throw me off? I didn’t know what to think. But, I’d definitely be keeping my distance from now on. I feigned a headache and managed to shake off the others early. I didn’t tell anyone about my conversation with Kyrie in the cave, but I thought about it the entire evening. I was sure Mason noticed something was off, but I reassured him as best as I could. I wasn’t quite sure why it bothered me so much anyway, Kyrie’s rejection. I needed to stop being sensitive. Swallow my pride and just... not interfere. I didn’t see him for the rest of the evening though. I couldn’t remember falling asleep, but it was near-on pitch black when Remi shook me awake. I mumbled, then shot upright. “What’s wrong?” Remi’s silvery features were grave. “It’s Ron. It’s his time.” No. Shock smashed like a brick wall and I gaped at him. Then, with a sob, I flung myself out of bed and raced out of my bedroom. I saw my parents down the hall, all three of us bursting into Grandad’s bedroom opposite. Grandad laid on the bed, pale and still. I stared at his chest, willing it to move, but there was nothing. Not even a single breath. I sobbed, clamping my hands over my mouth, shaking my head as I backed up into Remi. His arms enveloped me, warmth settling over my body like a blanket. But, it did nothing to ward off the freezing cold that descended into my very being. Anju was standing by his bedside, Mum and Dad on the other; Mum clung to Dad, tears streaming down both their faces. Fleur stood beside her, silently weeping, gaze on Anju's hands. I hadn't noticed, but Anju was cradling white mist. My grandfather's essence, I realised with a jolt. I whimpered and Remi held me closer, murmuring in my ear, his soft hair brushing my face. I couldn't process a word he said though; I couldn't stop staring at that ball of swirling mist. In the centre, I could make out a flickering white light. Anju looked towards us, Pim shadowing the doorway. And for the first time since I'd known the Guardian, there were tears shimmering in her eyes. Holding the essence to her chest, as one would a baby, Anju bowed. Then, she lifted the mist, what was left of the Spirit of Ronald Bonewhite, and spoke directly to it. To him. "It has been an honour to exist with you." My throat clogged, vision blurring at the fresh onslaught of tears. Anju lowered the mist back to her chest, looked at us all with a tearful smile and faded away.
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Post by MrsCarterRivera on Apr 29, 2023 5:02:05 GMT -5
Chapter Seventeen
I stood on the gravel driveway and watched the gurney get loaded into the back of the funeral home van. Dad sobbed beside me, arms curled around Mum, the sounds of the doors slamming making us all flinch. Such a sound of finality, I couldn't have spotted the tears if I'd tried. When the van disappeared out of sight, we turned and headed back into the house. Everywhere I looked, I could see Grandad. His wellies were still sat by the door, along with his cane. His scarf and jacket hung from the coat rack. His smiling face beamed from a few photographs that lined the hallway. My grandparents sepia wedding photo sat on the side unit beside the rose he'd only replaced a few days ago after a walk around the estate. It was awfully quiet. My parents had retreated upstairs. Mrs Tabitha wasn't even in sight. His chair by the fire was empty. Even Anju was a noticeably lacking presence, her usual perch being the arm of the chair. Unable to stand it, I went to go and find Mason. He'd appeared in Grandad's bedroom doorway not long after Anju had disappeared with my grandfather's spirit, shocked when he'd spotted Grandad's body in bed. He'd held me in silence, then called the funeral home (research this) for us; none of us had been in the right state to pick up the phone. Making my way upstairs, I headed for his bedroom and I could hear him talking before I reached the door. "... Yeah, I will. Sure, Mom. Yeah, I promise. Okay. Yeah, love you too. Bye." I knocked lightly on the door nd peered in just as Mason hung up the phone. He turned to face me, eyebrows bunching in concern. "Hey. Are you okay?" Mason hung up the phone, looking at me with an expression that bordered on a mixture of apology and concern. "That was my mom." "Is she okay?" My entire being felt numb, my eyes sore from crying and the ache in my chest was too savage to describe. Mason nodded, the corners of his mouth down turning. "She was wondering when I was going to be home. And..." He trailed off, moving to take my hand. I sat down on the bed beside him. "I don't particularly want to leave. I care a lot for you, Diannah. But, I also think it will be a good idea to give you and your family some space. To grieve." A deep sadness passed over his face. "I'm so sorry about Ron. I really am. He was a good man." I bit my trembling bottom lip as tears surged. He sighed, leaning forward to hug me. I buried myself into his chest, breathing in his familiar citrus scent. "I'm sorry." "Don't be sorry," he murmured, kissing the top of my head, running his fingers through my hair in slow, soothing motions. I took a breath to force some composure, then straightened and wiped my eyes. "Let me tie some things up back home and I'm yours for the summer, okay? But, take this time for yourself. Loss is..." He shook his head, eyes distant, and I wondered what memories this was conjuring. Who he may have lost before. "I guess it's one of life's more painful experiences. But, there's a reason for everything. And we know that better than anybody." I nodded, sniffling. Mason slipped his fingers beneath my chin and angled my face to his. "I love you, Diannah." My heart jolted at the admission. "You're going to get through this. I know you will." A crooked smile before he leaned in to kiss me. I sank into the kiss, allowing myself to feel /something/, anything other than this numb cold. "I need to book a flight and pack. But, let me know if you need anything." He stood. "Mason?" "Yeah?" "I love you too." That rogue smile again, the one that always got me in a fluster, before he moved to pick up his holdall. "I know."
---
I found my parents cuddling on the sofa in the lounge. Mum was curled beneath a blanket with her head against Dad's chest and her arms wrapped tight around her waist. Dad had his arm around her, faces still red was crying. They looked up when I slipped in, shutting the door gently behind me. "Hey, baby girl," Mum whispered and the strain in her voice broke what remained of my heart into tinier pieces. I made my way over, swallowing back the lump in my throat. "Um, Mason's going to head home for a bit," I said, settling onto the sofa on the other side of Dad. I curled up on his other side and he tucked his arm around me, eyes still glistening. "His mum called anyway, but he said he wanted to give us space." I didn't need to mention why. "He's a good young man," Dad said after a moment, his own voice hoarse. Mum murmured her agreement. Neither of us said anymore after that. In the silence, I tried to imagine my Grandad on his journey to the lake beyond the mountains, to the place of tranquillity where he would heal and review. The thought merely had me sobbing again. That evening, I ate dinner alone with Mason, picking at my chicken salad, my appetite completely eluding me. “Are you going to be okay?” Mason asked softly, seated opposite me. I glanced up, yanked from my imaginings of Lake Tranquilla. “I think so.” My bottom lip trembled a little and I took a breath. “I hope so.” He reached out and I slipped my hand into his. He squeezed it softly. “If you need me, I’ll just be on the other end of the phone, okay?” I nodded. I picked some more at my meal, thanking Mason when he eventually stood to clear the plates. Before long, the taxi was beeping outside and Mason gathered his suitcases and followed me out the door. Piling his cases into the back of the taxi, Mason turned and pulled me into a tight hug. “I miss you already.” “I miss you already too,” I murmured, albeit tearfully. My head was all over the place and part of me wanting to beg him to stay... it was for the sake of my parents that I didn’t. Mason dipped his head, giving me a searing kiss which had my toes curling. And then he was gone, climbing into the back of the taxi with a wave. I waited until the taxi was far out of sight before I turned and headed inside. The silence consumed me.
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Post by MrsCarterRivera on Apr 29, 2023 5:02:40 GMT -5
Chapter Eighteen
My body felt sluggish as I made my way downstairs for breakfast the next morning. I'd woken not long after dawn and spent an age string up at my ceiling. The house felt unusually silent, even for this hour. I still couldn't quite believe that Grandad was gone. I'd never have him ruffling my hair as I passed, nor greeting me jovially when I'd come into a room. I'd never travel across the country with him on hauntings, would never listen to this caring advice. I couldn't bear it. Mason had messaged me earlier in the night to let me know his flight had landed safely and I'd hearted the message in response, but couldn't bring myself to reply just yet. I hadn't wanted to admit it to him, but I was kind of grateful for the space. The time to get my head around everything. Stepping through the kitchen door, I paused when I saw Kerslake and Kyrie seated side by side at the kitchen table. Mum was sat on the opposite side beside Dad, both nursing coffees in their dressing gowns. They clearly hadn't slept well; nor had I. Fleur was sat up on the kitchen worktop, Remi leaning beside her. Pim was the only one not present. Mum turned, giving me a tired smile. "Hey, Dee. You're just in time." "What's happening?" I made my way to the table, avoiding looking at Kyrie, even though I could feel his eyes on me. I slipped into the chair beside my mum, looking over to Kerslake as the Grim Reaper spoke. "We've just left the Mountains," he said, voice a gentle rumble, understanding creeping into my face. Ah. "We wanted you all to know that Ron arrived safely. He and Anju have made it to Lake Tranquilla." I thought about the Necris and shivered. "No more attacks?" He shook his head. "It was a peaceful trip. Ron was in good spirits." I nodded thoughtfully, looking away. Mum reached and gave my shoulder a gentle squeeze. "He wanted us to let you know that death is simply a transition. Grieve, but do not linger there." "'Do not fear the inevitable for it is merely part of the story,'" Kyrie murmured and I heard my grandfather in his words, lifting my gaze to his. There was no hint of mocking humour in his face at all, the sympathy there enough for tears to surface. I looked away with a sniff. "Thank you," Dad said, his voice hoarse, and he cleared it. "I appreciate you stopping by. I understand you didn't have to." "It is an honour," Kerslake replied, inclining his head. He stood, chair scraping back against the stone. "I must leave. But, I bade you all well." He looked between Kyrie and myself. "I shall not be back for a few days, but I expect training to commence." He directed that last bit towards me. "Keep that fire lit, Diannah. Do not linger for a second." I nodded, ignoring my parents' confused glances. Kerslake nodded to us all before he was eaten away by shadow. Remi straightened and ruffled his wings, jaw tight. He didn't look at me. (ignore this bit/rewrite but keeping for wc<_<) "I'm going on patrol," he muttered, disappearing before I could say anything. Mum rubbed her eyes as Dad rose to his feet. "I guess we better get dressed and start doing what needs to be done," she said, the two of them leaving the room with Fleur fluttering behind them. I stood, not wanting to be left with Kyrie and cursing myself for not moving faster. Kyrie stood at the same time. "Diannah-" "Don't." Only Kyrie and I remained. I cast him a look to find him watching me, the shadows gone from his silver eyes. He looked truly disheartened. "I'm sorry about your grandad. He was a good teacher." "Save your sentiments," I snapped, snatching my purse off the side. Kyrie looked away, stance stiffening, but I didn't care to save his feelings. Not when I'd lost someone so precious. Not when Kyrie hadn't thought to save /my/ feelings. "You don't want a friend and neither do I." Without waiting for a response, I turned on my heel and stalked out. Tears stung and I lifted my hand to wipe them away. Then, halfway up the stairs, I yanked my phone out my pocket and sent a quick message to Oli. A moment later, it buzzed with a reply. /On my way./
---
I'd spent the last hour curled up with Oli in my bed, crying my eyes out. My parents hadn't disturbed us, though I didn't doubt or blame them for a second for being caught up in their own grief. Grandad had been the pillar of the family, the cornerstone, and it was like a gaping hole had been torn out of our lives. I'd never known life without my grandfather in it; he was as much of the estate as the furniture or the large stone fountain in the gardens. I couldn't imagine waking up tomorrow and not seeing him sat in his usual armchair beside the fire, Anju pecking at his head about one issue or another. Their bickering was part of the background of life in the Bonewhite family. And now he was gone. I wondered if he'd known. Had some inkling. Perhaps Anju had warned him. The money, the pushing for myself and Mason to make it official.. Had he wanted to ensure it was a sure thing before he passed? That the protection of Bonewhite Spring would continue? I couldn't even ask him now. Wasn't sure when, or how, I would get the chance. Fresh tears fell. Oli hugged me close, running her fingers through my hair as she murmured softly to me, promising me that everything would be all right. I clung to her words like a lifeline, the only thing keeping me secure when everything else had turned to madness. “We’ll get through this,” she murmured. “Together. Like we always do. I love you, Dee.”
—-
The week following my grandfather’s death was nothing short of a blur. As (June slipped into July or July slipped into August), the beckoning sun made it hard to want to stay inside. Despite my grief, I’d taken to walking around the estate, losing myself in the colourful blooms that erupted in every spare space of garden. I’d kept in touch with Mason, texting during the day and sharing a video call in the evenings. He’d given me a brief tour of the ranch and his mum had stopped to speak to me a couple of times as well. She’d already dropped a few edging hints, which I’d laughed off, trying not to le the sadness into my eyes at the fact Grandad wouldn’t be there to witness it. The day of Grandad’s funeral was as gut-wrenching as I knew it would be. My parents and I piled into the black car which followed the hearse past Bonewhite Cottage and through the town to the crematorium. I’d worn a simple black dress, my hair braided and curling over my shoulder. I turned a rose between my fingers, the petals a vivid red, unable to look at the coffin through the glass ahead. The ceremony was short and bittersweet. My Dad got up to speak, voice trembling as it rang out through the otherwise quiet room. A few of the townsfolk had turned up, friends and acquaintances that I’d met a number of times come to pay their respects. After, we wandered into the peaceful, green-hued world of the crematorium to give our thanks to those who turned up. We drink and ate a little buffet at the local pub which Grandad had been a frequent visitor. I don’t think I said two words beyond the odd greeting and /thank you so much for coming/. By the late afternoon, we were back on the estate, deposited around the kitchen table with mugs of steaming coffee. Neither of us were saying much of anything. Even Mrs Tabitha was more morose than usual. I’d already messaged Oli and she’d let me know she loved me and that she’d drop by tomorrow. I excused myself for the Spring. I’d take my shift, maybe call Mason to let him know how the funeral went. But for now I just needed something to take my mind off things. Trudging down the stone steps, I made my way into the cavern, the chill refreshing from the stifling heat upstairs. Unfortunately I wasn’t alone. Kyrie stood by the monitors, writing in the ledger. He looked up as I appeared, the two of us just looking at each other for a moment. Then, I turned away and headed for the Spring. I didn’t want to talk to him. Kyrie made no move to talk to me either. The silence grew. Became a physical thing between us, an uncomfortable entity. I knew I should say something, but the anger and upset were too much and I didn’t think I could open my mouth without breaking down. I heard the rustle of paper in the ledger and glanced over my shoulder - Remi appeared and I screamed, startling both of them. The words I wanted to snap were on my tongue but the look on Remi’s face was enough to make them disappear. “There’s been another attack,” he said, voice trembling. “It’s bad.”
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Post by MrsCarterRivera on Apr 29, 2023 5:03:47 GMT -5
Chapter Nineteen
I ran into the kitchen, Kyrie on my heels, to find everyone in a panic. Dad was talking on the phone, pacing with his finger jabbed in his other ear. "... come on, pick up... Shit." He hung up and tried another number. Mum was also on her phone, frantically typing away as Fleur read over her shoulder, brow creased. Pim was stood stock still by the sink, eyes distant as he stared at something unseen to us. His lips were moving soundlessly, every muscle in his body poised. "...Russia," he said out loud. "I... Definitely Russia." His eyes narrowed as he tried to figure out what he was looking at. Dad lowered the phone and hit another number on his contact list. Mum did the same. /Russia/. I clamped my hands over my mouth, horrified, my heart jamming in my throat. /Not Katia or Yula. Not the Orlovs, please, no./ Another attack. How? /Why?/ Kyrie and Remi were like statues, flanking me. I pulled out my phone, found Yula's number and rang. It rang and rang and I couldn't help the sob - "Diannah." Her answering reply had me sagging against Remi's wing, knees like jelly. "Oh my Gods, Yula." "I heard right now," came her answering whisper, just as my Dad told the room, "Mischa. The Ivanovs..." He was staring at a text message on his phone and I felt bile rise in my throat. Olene had been pregnant. "It's Mischa and Olene," I murmured to Yula and I heard her sob down the line. She turned and relaid it in Russian to her family and I heard the wails of distress - Katia. "I-I have to go." "I'll message you in a bit," Yula promised. "Stay safe." "You too." I disconnected the call and lowered my arm, phone hanging loosely from my hand. The room seemed to spin. Another Shepherd family slain. I needed to be sick. Beside me, Remi reached up to touch his chest, the same distant look appearing in his eyes. "The Archangels are on their way," he announced. I barely had time to process that before the blinding white flashed filled the entire room, bringing with it a smell of fresh jasmine and summer meadows. I could only stare in stunned disbelief at the two Beings that now filled the other side of the kitchen. I'd never met any of the Archangels before. They towered above us, so overwhelming big that they even made Pim look short. They wore robes of the most brilliant white, their wings made of pure gold, as were the twin swords that hung at their hips. The only reason I could name them now was because of the history books stored in the family library. The Archangel on the left was Raphael. His brown hair was short and wavy, his eyes of the softest brown. (desc) On the right stood Gabriel, hair the colour of the sun and longer than Raphael's, falling to his shoulders, curling at the ends. There seemed to be a steady hum radiating from them, pressure against my eardrums as the noise rang in my head. I guessed it was the high frequency the Archangels yielded to, but it took me a few minutes to adjust. And then, filling the last little bit of space in the kitchen, Kerslake appeared, a ball of black mist from which he formed. He was wearing his usual black, staff gripped in his hand and a severe look on his face. He already knew. "As you are all aware," Raphael began, his wonderfully musical voice filling the room as much as his presence; I could feel his words rumbling through me like bass. "There has been another slaying. The demon has, so far, managed to evade us." By the look on Gabriel's face, he did not take this fact lightly. “The Ivanov Spring will remain unmanned.” My parents looked at each other in surprise and even I blinked. We’d lost so many Springs already, over half of what there used to be now unattended. “Is there nobody at all to cover?” Remi asked, but Gabriel shook his head. “We sent the last of the nomads to Canada.” Remi nodded, brow furrowed. “I promise you, we are working on this as fast as we can. Vitus,” God of All That Is Good, “had been updated. If he declares any kind of change or movement, we will let you know straight away. As it stands, we need to ensure your safety, as well as the Spring’s protection.” His blazing eyes rested on me and my parents. “We appreciate wholly your efforts and we will do whatever we can to ensure you and your family remains safe.” I felt my throat close. Thought about Mischa and Olene. She would have been due any day now, a life snuffed out before it even had a chance to begin. Tears stung and I looked away. “Additional weapons will be provided,” Raphael continued, voice filling me again. “If there is anything you need, please send your Guardian to us and we’ll provide what we can.” “Thank you,” my mum whispered, hand pressed to her chest, still a little dazed. “Extra Guardians and Guides will also be situated around the property should you need them.” We nodded again. All of us too stunned to really say much at all. Raphael and Gabriel bowed again. When Raphael straightened, he looked at Remi with a devastating smile. “It’s good to see you again,” he said, Remi grinning back. Another blinding flash and they were gone, the only thing remaining being the lingering scent of jasmine on a summer breeze. Kerslake turned to Kyrie and Pim. “For the time being, I feel it wise to keep Kyrie here. Especially with the added protection.” Pim nodded. “It’s extremely clear now that Lycus is indeed on the hunt for him, but I think the attacks on other Springs... I feel he does not quite know where Kyrie resides.” “Either that or he doesn’t care who gets in the way,” Mum muttered. Remi turned on Kyrie furiously, looking to Pim in outrage. “I told you! Having him here was a bad idea in the first place, but did anyone listen?” He scoffed. “No. And now people are getting murdered. How do we know he isn’t behind it all anyway? He could have-“ Whatever he was going to say was drowned out by Kyrie himself. For the first time since he’d arrived, he finally gave Remi the reaction he’d been waiting for. “I haven’t done /shit/, Remi, and you know it,” Kyrie snarled, stepping towards him; Remi flared his wings, shifting his stance. “I didn’t ask to be here either, but I’ve done what you’ve all asked, I’ve kept my head down, I’ve /stayed out of trouble./ Take your arrogant Holier-Than-You attitude and go fuck yourself.” Before I could grab his arm, Remi lunged for him, Kyrie rising to meet the clash. “Remi, stop!” I hurried forward at the same time Pim flashed from one side of the room to appear at my side, grabbing Remi by both arms. At the same moment, Kerslake had done the same with Kyrie, the two furious males glowering at and straining for each other. “Go to the clouds and calm down,” Pim ordered and Remi let out a guttural snarl, yanking himself free. “This isn’t over,” he snapped at the fuming Grim Reaper. “Yes, it is -“ Pim began, but Remi had already disappeared. Nobody seemed to know what to say, but my mind was already whirring. Lycus was indeed after Kyrie. No doubt angry that Kyrie had defected in the first place. And if he was plundering all the Springs to find him... I had to be prepared. The thought brought both sinking fear and a steely determination. I had to get better and /who/ better to teach me than a former demon? I turned to face Kerslake. “I want to learn how to fight. Properly.” I’d kind of expected my parents to protest, but to my surprise, neither said a word. I didn’t take my eyes off the towering Reaper. “I need to know how to defend myself should it happen here. We both know it’s only going to be a matter of time.” Kerslake nodded. “Then you join us. We are heading out to the clearing now.” His black eyes shifted to Kyrie. “We have some pent-up tension to burn off. Clearly.”
---
My heart was beating savagely as I stood back in the clearing, stars winking through the break in the canopy overhead. Kyrie stood at my side. He hadn't said a single word since we'd marched out the house and through the dark woodland, but I'd caught his eyes on me twice when I'd looked back. Kerslake stood in front of us, the fire he'd lit with a sweep of his hand roaring behind him. "Kyrie, prepare to spar." The youngling moved to the side, pulling the black robes from over his head. He folded the material, then dropped the bundle at his feet. I dragged my gaze from the taunt muscles of his back. Kerslake's dark eyes were fixed on me and I hoped my blush didn't show in the orange glow of the fire. "Diannah, I would like you to practise weaponizing your Light." I blinked, then nodded slowly, glancing towards Kyrie. "You will not be sparring today. You need to be able to weaponize that Light instantly. Practise by the fire." I made my way over, but waited until Kerslake and Kyrie had begun to circle each other. Kerslake had already disrobed and both now clutched swords of burning black flame. I could see them both checking for each other's weak spots, muscles shifting as stances were adjusted. Kyrie struck - And Kerslake deflected it with a clashing blow. "Practise," he growled to me without even looking in my direction. I started, then dampened my bottom lip and looked at my hands. Practise. Be faster. I shut my eyes, envisioning the bow. I loved the bow, it had always been the clearest thing for me to visual. I felt the Light racing down my arms - "Too slow," Kerslake barked. Another clash of swords. I scowled, started again. Saw the bow, felt the Light rippling through my crown, lighting me up from the inside - "Too slow, Diannah." My eyes flew open and I glared across the clearing at Kerslake; the two Grim Reapers were a blur of movement, swords clashing, those eternal black flames flickering and lashing. I took a deep breath to steady my rising temper, then shut my eyes and started again. The Light burned faster than it had before and I felt the bow begin to form between my fingers. "Better." The word was bit out as Kerslake deflected another savage blow from Kyrie. "Again." I did it again. And again. And again. I kept forming the bow and reforming it, over and over until the Light was constant rushing stream through my body, until my fingers glowed brighter than they'd ever glowed, until my temples pounded with a building migraine. Kerslake began to shout out various weapons and I tried so hard to imagine them all, to create them, despite the fact I was trembling with effort. “You’re slowing down.” “I’m trying,” I snapped, eyes flying open once more. “I said I wanted to learn how to fight. Like /that/.” Kerslake held up a hand and Kyrie immediately straightened, lowering his sword. Panting, he looked over at me. “Kyrie, stand aside.” Kerslake’s words were nothing but a growl, but I didn’t take my eyes off him as Kyrie moved off to the side. Kerslake approached me, no hesitance in his stride, and the flicker of fear transected my anger. Mason’s words came back, bringing creeping ice with it. /Kerslake the Grevious/. Light began to burn in my hand as I frantically tried to form the bow - Too late. The ball of fire blasted at my feet, scorching heat tossing me backwards. I landed hard, the bow fading from my hand. I scrambled to my feet, tried to summon it again, but Kerslake sent a second flaming ball hurtling for my head. I barely dodged it. Across the clearing, Kyrie stiffened, and I saw the alarm in his face as he looked between the pair of us. But, then I was dodging another flaming ball and I felt the heat against the right side of my face. Kerslake stalked after me, face set, black eyes reflecting the roaring fire behind me. This time, he raised both hands and black thorny vines shot towards me, tangling around my feet and sending me sprawling onto the earth. Kyrie started towards us, sword face, baring his teeth at Kerslake, but the Reaper merely raised his hand, stopping him in his tracks. His eyes never left me as I rolled onto my back and struggled against the vines; the thorns dig into my jeans and cut into my skin. With a forceful yank, Kerslake pulled on the vines and dragged me rapidly towards him. I crumpled against his solid legs, but he didn’t give me a moment to breathe before he hoisted me to my feet. The vines disappeared. Kerslake clutched my shoulders and stared into my face. “/This/ is why I need you to practise with the Light,” he said, voice softer than it had been. “Because the demons down there... They will tear you apart. And they will take their time doing it and they will enjoy every single moment.” I tried not to let the fear show, but he saw it anyway. “Agony and terror... it’s like a drug to them. They feed off it like parasites. You must learn to handle your fears, Diannah Bonewhite.” I nodded and I understood why he’d attacked. I was weak. I was a weak link and I needed to get better. Faster. To be able to protect myself and others. I didn’t dare look away, even when he released my shoulders. “We shall meet here every evening,” Kerslake continued, finally looking over at Kyrie. “If I am dealing with important matters, you shall train together. Without fail.” I saw Kyrie nod out the corner of my eye. “We would all be fools to doubt there some a dark stain on the horizon. And it is getting ever closer.” I exhaled as he turned away. “Let her have her fight,” he told Kyrie. I felt my throat dry as I looked over. Kyrie approached me slowly, the sword still burning in his hand. I hated how things seemed to have crumbled between us. The fragile thread of a tentative friendship broken before it had even really had a chance to blossom. Because despite what he’d said, I know what I’d felt. The Necris attack had changed something. I didn’t know what, or why, but I trusted my gut. And if he wanted to shy away, then I couldn’t let that hold me back. I couldn’t stop that from doing what I needed to do. If there was a war on the horizon... I had to be prepared. Kyrie began to circle. Dampening my bottom lip, I focused the Light into my palm, this time without having to close my eyes. The sword grew, a matching one to Kyrie, and I noticed Kerslake nod his approval behind him. “Good. It’s quicker to form what you can see in front of you. No need to waste time visualising details.” I kept moving, Kerslake now sounding behind me. “Look for his weak spots. He’s tired from sparring already. He’s favouring his left side.” I lurched clumsily, but Kyrie eased into the deflection with unnatural fluidity and his sword clanged against mine. The weight of it nearly sent me toppling. “Careful. You need to take into account the counter-balance. Keep your distance until you’re ready to strike.” Face set in concentration, I looked for signs of weakness in Kyrie, any open space I could strike... I plunged my sword towards his midriff and he barely spun out the way, his sword clashing down on mine and sending the tip to the earth. I rightened myself and we circled again. “Kyrie, attack.” He lunged and I cried out, swinging my sword up, the tip of his flaming sword arcing in front of my face. I glowered at the ghost of a smirk that flitted across his face. /Bastard./ “Diannah, attack.” I swung my sword upwards, straight for his face. Kyrie rolled backwards, dirt clouding at his feet as he crouched, staring back at me. His lip curled. Then, he charged, sword poised, and I readied myself for the next strike. My attention was so focused on the blade that I didn’t see his leg sweeping out in front of him until he’d tackled me completely. I fell into the dirt, sword disappearing completely. Kyrie roughly rolled me over, breathing harshly as he let the blade rest inches above my heart. The very heart that was pounding like a drum against my ribs, and not because of the sparring. “I win,” he whispered and the words were a caress. He didn’t move. Neither did I. “Good. Good start,” Kerslake was saying, startling us out of the strange revere we’d found ourself in. Kyrie stood, backing up, and I scrambled to my feet. I wiped my grazed hands on my jeans, wincing at the pain and trying to ignore how warm my entire body had become. “Keep practising, Diannah.” Kerslake stopped in front of me, clasping my shoulder again, and I looked up, shocked to see a smile on Kerslake’s face. I don’t think I’d /ever/ seen him smile before. “You had a fire within you today. A fire I haven’t seen before. Keep it burning. It’s going to aid you a lot.” I murmured my thanks and promised to keep practising, as Kyrie slid on his robes. I didn’t look at him again as I turned and left the clearing, only running once I’d reached the tree line.
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Post by MrsCarterRivera on Apr 29, 2023 5:05:20 GMT -5
Chapter Twenty
I spent most of the following day in the library, practising my Light between researching whatever I could find out about the Realms and how a demon may enter a Spring. I hadn’t been able to sleep last night and found myself downstairs as soon as the sun began to turn the sky a lighter shade of blue, pulling it from its navy slumber. I grabbed some paper and a pencil, and with a fresh cup of tea, set to work designing a sword that I could envision at a moment’s notice. I took my time to memorise every detail and solidify the visual in my head. And then I began to practise, forming my Light over and over. It was getting easier, I had to admit. As soon as I thought about a waterfall of Light gushing through my Crown, I’d feel the sensation instantly, the power thrumming through my very fingertips, the Light vibrant and warm. The sword took shape easier than I’d expected and I practise flicking out my wrist, drawing out the sword in a way that would make me feel less clumsy. Fleur found me around mid-afternoon, floating in through the wall and settling on the edge of the armchair. I looked at her, then looked away, reforming the sword and giving it a swish. “... Remi says you’re mad at him.” “I’m mad at everyone,” I shrugged. There was no point trying to deny the truth about these lot; they could read me like a book. “Even Mason was surprised that I’d only dealt with ghosts and poltergeists in the past. Why /am/ I so far behind everyone else?” I bet Shaylin could form a weapon without lifting her eyes off her phone screen. “Diannah,” Fleur sighed and it was strange to hear the use of my full name. I lowered my sword and turned to look at her. “You’re thinking with your human brain and not looking at the bigger picture. These are /your/ conditions, not ours.” I looked down, scuffing the toe of my shoe against the rug. “Even the ... Time Bearer stuff? I didn’t want you to mention that?” Fleur smiled. “Imagine if you had known? How could you have lived your experiences so far knowing your true power. You came to experience life as Diannah Bonewhite, not as the Bearer of Time.” Her features saddened. “Unfortunately, demons have the ability to break such contractual terms, and well... it renders them null and void.” She smiled again, tilting her head. “Which is why I can speak freely now. I am sad you had to find out though. In that way. Orius is a bad demon.” She shuddered. “Have you come across him before?” Fleur nodded, scowling. “Your mother was irrepressible as a teenager. She would hunt down demons, Makorach mainly...” Fleur’s eyes darted to mine. “Let’s just say, I’d happily never see any of the Serodon again. They are on another level.” A chill ran through my core. “I know Remi can be overprotective,” she continued softly. “But he loves you. We all do.” I lowered my head a little, lips downturning. Fleur watched me. “But don’t forget that even Guardians are here to experience. We Guardians have lessons to learn too... Everything happens for a reason, Dee. And for whatever reason, your soul had to be unprepared until now. You have a better idea about why than I do.” I nodded again. “Thank you, Fleur.” I felt a great comfort in the fact that things might have seemed out of control now, but in reality... I was exactly where I needed to be.
—
After dinner, I found my Dad working the Spring. He was scribbling figures from the monitor into the ledger, Pim leaning into the Spring behind him. Dad looked up as I entered, giving me a tired smile. “Has there been any news?” I asked, moving to lean against the table beside him. “Nothing new as of now. But I spoke to Lev Orlov and he says they are going to attend their funeral in a few weeks.” He straightened. “Without sounding like an overbearing father, please don’t stray too far alone.” “As if I could get away from Remi,” I replied with a strained smile. Then I sighed, trying not to let my upset show. I just wanted it all to stop. The attacks. The fear. “Why is this happening? Did they come after Kerslake like this?” Pim shook his head. “Not to quite the extent, no.” I fell quiet, frowning. Then, excusing myself, I trailed back upstairs. Why were they so intent on getting Kyrie back? Who else would they kill? What happened if they got in here? I was so lost in my thoughts, I didn’t see Kyrie until I’d bumped into his chest. He grabbed my elbow to stop me toppling back down the stone stairwell. His hand was searingly warm and... I shouldn’t have noticed how good he smelt. Neither of us said a word for a moment. “Kerslake won’t be here tonight. I came to get you for training.” Training. Alone with Kyrie. He saw my hesitance, that ghost of a smirk lifting his lip. “Don’t need your Guardian to protect you, do you?” I wasn’t even sure where Remi was, but I scowled at him anyway. “No. Do you always have to be such an arsehole?” He chuckled, releasing me and turning away. I followed him to the back door and out into the balmy night. Kyrie stride ahead and I quickened my step to keep up with him. We plunged into the tree line. “What’s your problem anyway? You’ve been a dick for weeks.” He glanced at me over his shoulder before stepping into the clearing. With a wave of his hand, flames erupted in the fire pit. “I don’t have a problem.” “Don’t give me that. Ever since...” I grit my jaw. “Ever since the attack.” I didn’t want to say it all again. That I’d believed us /friends/ when clearly Kyrie hadn’t. “Just tell me what I’ve done wrong.” “You’re too soft.” He turned to face me, advancing on me, but I refused to back up, refused to even look away from him. “You’re soft and naive and...” His eyes shadowed. “I’m not a good being, Anna. And the more time I spend around you, the more I realise it. The things I’ve done...” His throat worked. “You would never be able to imagine the things I’ve done. The darkness and horrors I have spread. So I keep my distant because I don’t want to taint you.” His features softened and it made my heart squeeze. “I don’t want to make you unhappy.” “Why would you make me unhappy?” Not that it mattered. Because I was with Mason. And I /was/ happy. Kyrie shrugged and turned away. “Form your sword,” came his barked command. I married my eyes. “I think I’ll be the judge of whether you’re a bad influence or not,” I muttered, not moving from the spot. He pulled off his white tee and set it on the ground. “Did you know to? What I was?” Or am? I noticed how he stilled. “You knew. When I first met you, you looked at me and nodded as if you were assuring yourself of something. You already knew who I was.” Slowly, he turned back to face me. “... We have met before, yes.” Met before? I couldn’t hide the shock from my face quick enough. “When?” “During one of my ten lives,” he replied, voice barely heard over the crackle of flames. I could hardly feel the heat. “Which one? How?” I noticed his jaw tighten and for a moment I feared he wouldn’t answer me. “Life Five.” “How did we know each other?” My heart began to pound in my chest, suddenly fearful of his answer. “How do you remember this?” “I was never given amnesia. I remember /everything/.” His face twisted. “Every single life, everything I had to endure... I remember it all. I am not incarnated like you, Anna. I don’t get the luxury of forgetting the things I have done. The things I have experienced.” When I said nothing, he continued. “You saved my life, Anna.” “How?” My words were faint. “I was born into a family where love was shown through the fist of my father.” (Figure out lives) “You were a nurse. When I was dying in hospital, you held me the entire time. The only true bit of love I’d ever experienced in that life. You were crying when I passed. Your tears splashed my face.” “I’m so sorry, Kyrie.” “Don’t be sorry. I would have never made the crawl without you... Can you form your sword?” He asked, tone softer than it had been. I nodded, opening my palm, the Sword of Light forming in a heartbeat. I saw him nod in approval before he drew his own, black flames dancing against his palm. “You’re getting better.” I felt myself flush with pride. “Thank you.” “Your stance needs a lot of improvement though.” A wolfish grin crossed his face. “You leave yourself too open. Your movements need to be tight, contained.” He extinguished his sword and moved close and I started a little when he grabbed my waist. “Part your legs.” I was kind of glad Oli wasn’t here right now because I could imagine exactly what she’d have to say about /that/. I parted my feet and he nodded, moving to stand behind me. He enveloped me, taking my wrists in each of his hands. My heartbeat was nothing but a constant thrum against my ribs, body prickling with heat wherever we made contact. I took a steadying breath and forced myself to concentrate. “Hold your sword steady, right in front of you. Too high and you leave your midriff undefended. Too low and it’s your chest and throat. You need to be able to predict your opponent’s next move and be able to snap into a defence whatever may come your way.” “While knowing demons fight dirty and not by the rules?” He chuckled in my ear and I tried not to shiver. “Even while knowing that.” He released me and I held my position, sword burning softly in front of me. Kyrie circled back around to face me, silver eyes trailing my body before he formed his sword once more. He matched my stance, his own blade gripped between two hands. “Watch your opponent’s eyes; they’ll almost always give away where they are going to strike.” He glanced at my right thigh and I brought my sword snapping down just as he swung for me. The blades clashed, sparks of white and black erupting. He glanced to my chest and I brought the sword back up, barely managing to force his blow away. I took a couple of steps back and readjusted my stance. His eyes dropped to my stomach and I sent the sword down again, only for Kyrie to jab at my left arm, the tip singeing a hole in my jacket. “You were looking at my stomach,” I scowled, rubbing my arm. Kyrie grinned. “I was playing dirty.” “Fine.” I swung my sword at him, closing the distance and forcing Kyrie to take a step back. Smooth as fluid, he deflected by attack. I countered it by slicing at his legs and making him jump back, before jabbing my sword at his face. “And that’s how you’re going to tire yourself out.” He was still grinning and I could see it in his eyes that he was enjoying himself. Maybe I was enjoying myself a little too. “I was playing dirty,” I shot back at him. He tilted his head and I couldn’t quite read the look on his face. But then he was surging forward again and our sword clashed, sparks flying, my arms screaming in protest as I beat off every one of his blows. We were both breathless when he finally dropped the attack, sword hanging at his side. I couldn’t resist. I swung around, halting the flaming blade inches from his throat. His eyes widened, holding my stare, and after a few seconds, the surprise in his eyes turned to that of pure challenge. Something came alive in the pit of my stomach. “Nice move, Anna,” he murmured, the light from my blade brightening every handsome pane of his face. “Maybe there’s hope for you after all.” “Brave words,” I smirked. “For someone on the wrong end of a blade.” His smile grew. “That’s what I like to see,” came a drawling voice behind us and I yanked my sword back, turning to face Remi. He was leaning against a tree at the edge of the clearing, out of range of the fire-light. His arms were folded across his chest in his usual stance. I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. “What are you doing here?” “Charming,” Remi snorted. “I was just hoping you were going to move an inch to the left and cut his head clean off.” I felt Kyrie tense beside me. “Remi?” “I was just seeing if I was needed. Apparently you’ve got it all in hand.” Gods, was he jealous? I couldn’t take much more of this. “Maybe I’ll take your head clean off,” I muttered and let the sword disappear from my hand. “Anyway, are we done here?” Remi checked his non-existent watch; I did roll my eyes then. “I guess we are now,” I muttered, casting Kyrie an apologetic look. He nodded at me, then turned away, his own sword billowing from his hand. He began to practise his moves, the blade moving so fast it was unseen. With an uncertain feeling in my heart, I trudged across the clearing towards Remi, glaring at him as I passed. “What’s that face for?” He muttered. As if he didn’t know. “You! Kyrie isn’t going to murder me, you know?” “Isn’t he?” “For goodness sake, Remi, no. And I know you know this.” In a few strides, he’d caught up with me as we pushed through branches to reach the gardens on the other side. “Listen.” He stopped me halfway across the gravel. “All I ask is that I train with you. You don’t... need to be alone with him.” I went to stalk past but he blocked my route. “Diannah-“ I whirled to face him. “You’re my Guardian, I get it; my safety is your be all and end all. But... you have to let me live! How many stupid mistakes do people make every day? And their Guardians have to stand there and let it happen, because most people can’t see their Guardians! Let me make stupid mistakes, Remi, let me experience. It’s what you all keep blabbing on about. So /let me/.” For the first time, he had no smooth remark, no answer which would shut me up. Instead, his brow furrowed and he looked away, nodding. “... Fine. You’re right. I’ll take a backseat.” “Thank you.” “But I don’t trust him. I won’t ever trust him.” “I’m not asking you to,” I sighed but the fight had all but left me. We trudged inside together and neither of us said another word for the rest of the evening.
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Post by MrsCarterRivera on Apr 29, 2023 5:05:30 GMT -5
Chapter Twenty-One
That night, I sat in my room, unable to settle. Guilt ate at my bones, inside my very marrow and I wasn't quite sure how I was supposed to fix this. Because there was no denying how I felt whenever I was around Kyrie, the sense that perhaps he was the one I was supposed to be with. Which was a stupid ridiculous notion in itself. Did I feel something for Kyrie? Something I'd convinced myself was friendship? And where did that leave Mason? Guilt bit my heart fiercely. What was wrong with me? I'd gone from fearing a relationship to falling for somebody who was utterly perfect for me and understood me in every way, had literally walked the path I was walking... So, why didn't thinking of Mason stir up the same excitement? I threw myself back on my bed, throwing an arm over my eyes with a groan. Why was I even thinking about this? I felt guilty about Remi too. I'd thrown everything he'd ever done for me in his face and I could tell it had hurt him by the way he hadn't said anything at all. He hadn't needed to. Tears stung my eyes, but I refused to let them fall, refused to fall into self-pity. I needed to fix everything before it all fell apart. And it would be all my fault. I laid there for some time, until sleep came in a haze of regret and self-hatred. I wasn't even certain I was dreaming at first. One moment I was staring into the darkness behind my eyelids and the next I was walking barefoot across ash. Soft black ash which shifted beneath my weight, my feet sinking a little with each step. The landscape was desolate around me. Charred black earth as far as the eye could see. Which wasn't very far thanks to the thick smog which drifted by in huge clouds, blocking the horizon from sight. Every now and then, I'd catch the eerie silhouette of a cindered tree. I began to feel a sense of unease. I stopped walking. The ash caught in the back of my throat and I coughed, once. Twice. A laugh drifted in the ashy breeze, bringing with it the over-pungent smell of sulphur. I coughed again. Backed up, my feet sinking deeper into the ash. So much ash. What had this place been? Where was I? "We call this place the Ash Fields." That voice. I spun around, gasping when I saw Orius towering before me. He looked so much bigger than he had at the station. I took a stumbling step backwards. "You - How?" Then, I shook my head. "I'm just dreaming. I'm just dreaming." Orius laughed. "Yes. You're simply dreaming, Diannah. None of this can be real." "I'm just dreaming, I'm just dreaming." I kept on murmuring to myself, willing myself to wake up. /Please, please, just wake up./ "There's no waking up from this, Diannah," Orius smirked, moving closer, each step considered and deliberate. Fear coiled tight in the pit of my stomach. "I brought you here after all." I threw out my palm, but the Light that fizzed there quickly died away, like a flame without oxygen. Orius' laugh grew louder. "Your pathetic Divine Light means nothing here. The best thing you can do," he said, voice growing lower and more menacing with every word. "Is /run/." I turned and fled, skidding on the ash in a desperate attempt to run away. Charred trees loomed into sight and I crashed into more than one, my breath coming in harsh pants, my ears ringing. I could hear his laughter behind me, could /feel/ his enjoyment at the chase... and I was the prey. I stumbled in a particularly deep pile of ash and only just rightened myself, taking a sudden left and hurtling through the smog. More trees, each one bent and black and crooked. I didn't dare slow. I didn't dare look back. I didn't even know where I was going. I just ran and ran and ran. The ash shifted beneath my feet, parting, ripping open in front of me, a gaping maw in the earth that swallowed the ash and the charred trees and the choking smog... I stumbled back at the edge of the crevice, the scream tearing from my lips and bouncing back towards me. I scrambled backwards, back bumping into what I knew were a pair of legs before I even looked. I forced myself to my feet, despite the fear clutching my entire body in a vice; I broke out into a cold sweat. "Leave me alone!" "Oh, baby," Orius purred, my blood turning to ice as he ran a predatory eye over my figure. "I won't hurt you." A nasty smile crept across his mouth. "Not that badly. Now let me hear you scream." He snatched for me and I took a step back, throwing a desperate glance over my shoulder. I was too close to the edge, too close - Orius caught the front of my dress and yanked my towards him. I collided with his solid chest, the smell of sulphur eye-watering. He dipped his face to my throat and inhaled deeply, the grip on my arms tightening. "You smell-" A blast of light had Orius turning abruptly, dragging me around; I could barely keep my footing. But, as soon as I saw Remi, my entire body sagged with relief, Orius the only thing now keeping me upright. "Remi!" Orius snarled, the sound loud enough to clear some of the fog around us. My bottom lip trembled violently as I fought to keep the tears at bay, fighting furiously against the demon. Orius' lip curled. "You dare come to the Ash Fields? You dare toe the border, Angel?" Remi's stare was frightening. His wings were flared, held high and outstretched, beautiful even against the devastation of the Ash Fields. I noticed he wasn't holding his usual sword, but Light shone through his fingers and somehow that held more deadly promise than any weapon. "Release her from this nightmare." "I do not take orders from you. Not in this place." Orius pulled me against him, then backed us towards the crevis. I cried out, struggling again, but the demon was as solid as stone. He looked down at me, black eyes void of light, and smiled. "Orius-" Remi started forward, but the demon moved too quickly. One moment I was trying to dig my feet into the ash and the next I was hanging over the gaping mouth in the earth, the darkness beckoning. I screamed and heard it echoed down and down and down... I swung helplessly, the bones in my wrist threatening to break under Orius' grip. I saw Remi, the horror on his face as he ran towards us, his palm lifting, the ball of Light expanding and erupting - And then I was falling, my scream lost in the rushing air as Orius released me. I was tumbling over and over and there was nothing to stop me, I was going to die - Remi appeared in a flash of feathered wing and as soon as his arms enveloped my waist, I landed heavily on my bed and jolted awake. Sweat drenched me, I was tangled in my sheets, I was still in my vest and underwear, no dress in sight, no demon, no gaping hole, no ash. Remi still clutched me though. He held me tight and he was murmuring and it took a few minutes for my brain to function enough, to understand I was back in my bedroom and safe and alive, to process what he was saying. "...You're okay, Diannah, you're okay. I've got you. I've got you, you're safe. You're safe, you're safe." Reassuring himself as much as he was reassuring me. I turned and wrapped my arms around him, unable to stop the sobs that suddenly escaped. "Was that real?" I whispered, but my heart knew the answer. The painful clenching in my gut knew too. "We need to tell the others. Pim will know what to do." I was shivering now and Remi moved so I could climb off the bed. I pulled on a pair of jogging bottoms and grabbed a jumper from my dresser. I could still smell sulphur. I could still feel the ash on my feet. I didn't dare look, but I had a horrible feeling they'd be stained black underneath. If I thought hard enough, I thought I may have felt the lingering grip of Orius on my wrist too, in the few long moments before he... Before he dropped me. I wanted to be sick. How had he accessed by dreams? It was another thing I'd never considered, but I knew I'd get answers soon enough, as we made our way to the kitchen. The light was already on, despite the earliness of the hour, a low murmur of voices on the other side of the door. Remi glanced at me and followed behind as I pushed my way inside, narrowing my eyes against the light. Kerslake and Kyrie sat together at the kitchen table with Pim. There was a world map spread out in front of them, several red pins and several green pins spread out across various countries. I knew they marked the Springs at a simple glance; this had been Geography class for me growing up. Pim straightened, glancing between the two of us, my gaze seeking Kyrie's; a little crease marred his brow. "Something has happened," Remi began, gesturing to me. "Orius snatched Diannah while she was dreaming in the Astral." Kerslake and Pim both frowned, but Kyrie went entirely still. "I managed to track them to the Ash Fields. He was tormenting her. I..." His tongue darted out to dampen his bottom lip. "I nearly lost her." "What?" hissed Pim. My stomach lurched as I considered what 'lost me' might mean. "He dropped her into a hole. I managed to use what little Light I could to blind him, but if I hadn't caught her..." I'd never heard Remi's voice tremble like that before. Pim frowned. "It's not impossible for demons to access dream spaces, but to have taken her soul to the Ash Fields, he would have needed a prior connection..." "The train station," I murmured, shifting when the focus turned to me. "It must have been then. The fake-haunting was a trap to get us there. What if there was something else? Some... dark energy that forged a connection while we were in the same place?" (figure this out wtf) "He's... cropped up in my mind a few times recently." Ever since I'd met him really. "Will this happen again?" “It may well do," Kerslake growled, palms flat against the map-strewn table top as he stood. "If we don’t put a block in place. He’s formed a connection somehow.” Kyrie looked physically sick, his face leeched of all colour. He stared off into the distance; I longed to know what he was thinking. I pulled my gaze back to Pim and Kerslake. “I think it’s him... Orius,” I began uncertainly. “I think he’s the one slaying the Shepherd families. I think he’s figured out where Kyrie is and he’s playing with us. Biding his time.” “Until midwinter,” Pim murmured. The most dangerous day of the year for all manner of Higher Beings. It was the one night of the year where Darkness overpowered Light and extended the demons limitations in the Physical. There was little we could do except hold fort each year and deal with the aftermath in the following days. Orius would strike at midwinter when his power and strength was unrivalled, when he could walk the streets without a care, invoking whatever pains he saw fit. I felt sickness coil in my stomach at the very thought. “Let us head to the Angels,” Kerslake said to Pim, the Guardian nodding in return. They disappeared from sight. Remi turned to Kyrie, lip curled as he ran a scrutinising eye over him. “I hope you’re happy.” “Go fuck yourself, Remi,” Kyrie snarled softly. “Both of you shut the fuck up.” I squeezed the bridge of my nose, a headache beginning to build in my temples. It wasn’t even dawn yet and I’d just been attacked in the Astral Dream Space; I couldn’t take another moment of their arguing. Kyrie stood, walking out and I was in no mood to stop him. “Don’t leave the estate without me, Diannah,” Remi said, turning to face me. And for the first time, I couldn’t disagree.
—
I spent the rest of my week estate-bound. I trained every evening with Kyrie and Remi, my Guardian taking his role to the extreme. Not for a single moment was I left alone, and once in the night I woke to find Remi sat in my bedroom window, staring up at the moon, the strain in his features revealed by a sliver of silver moonlight. Normally, while I was dreaming, Remi would visit the Astral or the Spirit Realm and get up to whatever it was Guardians got up to. Being stuck inside wasn’t fun for either of us. I was glad I could still go out into the grounds though. The boundaries that kept the Darkness out ended where our acres of land ended, cutting halfway through the woodland towards the west. I’d taken to having a walk at lunch, enjoying the heat of the summer and the lazy drone of the bees in the flowers. I’d called Oli the day after my nightmare with Orius and let her know everything and why I couldn’t leave. She’d dropped by that afternoon to keep my company and I’d been more than grateful for the distraction that came in the form of snacks and the latest Doug Appleby videos. I spoke to Mason every evening, usual by call or video call. Seeing his face, hearing that soft lilting tone of his voice, was like a balm against my wounded heart. “I’ll be back soon,” he promised me every night. “I love you.” The only time I’d spent with Kyrie was during training and I didn’t want to admit that I was now the one avoiding him. Part of me was afraid of Remi being right. All of this had started after Kyrie had arrived and despite the unsteady truce we’d formed between ourselves, the truth that I’d shared a past existence with him... The uncertainty of the future terrified me. Everything had turned on its head and I just didn’t know what to think anymore. A week after my nightmare, I was in the library, practising with my Light bow. My dad had helped me move some of the furniture around and we’d erected a large board at the back of the room. With my bow and flaming arrows, I’d taken to trying to hit the targets I’d drawn for myself. Lifting the bow, I took aim at the crude drawing of Orius I had drawn. I let my breathing soften before releasing the nocked arrow; it arched through the air and landed with a thud above his head. “You keep moving every time you release the arrow.” I lowered my bow as I turned, seeing Kyrie leaning in the doorway. My heart stuttered, but I grit my jaw and turned away. “I don’t need your advice.” “Who’s the one with the problem now?” My back stiffened and I forced myself to calm my breathing, focusing on the image of Orius’ face. “I don’t have a problem.” He scoffed. It was like having a conversation with Remi. I ignored him, releasing the arrow, which hit the drawing of Orius right between the eyes. I smirked and lowered my bow. “I hope that was good enough for you.” “It was better.” I heard him enter the room, shoes quiet on the thick carpet. Then, I felt him behind me. I didn’t turn around. The hairs on my arms and the back of my neck stood on end as I felt his presence, his touch a ghost of a whisper across the bare skin of my arms. I wasn’t sure if I shivered. I wasn’t sure if he felt it if I did. His hands found mine, circling his fingers around my fingers and drawing the bow back up. In silence, we nocked an arrow. His face, his cheek, was pressed against mine and I couldn’t help but turn my head. I could feel his breath against my lips, heard the shaky exhale as his eyes met mine. My lips parted - to say his name? It was there on the tip of my tongue, the warning, but I never uttered it. I wanted him to kiss me. Kyrie released the arrow without even taking his eyes off me. I didn’t have to look to know it had struck true. And then he leaned in - “Diannah?” I jolted as if I’d been hit, tearing myself from his arms the moment I heard that voice. /His/ voice. “Mason?” He stood in the doorway, brows knotted, gaze darting between the two of us. “I came to surprise you,” he said stiffly, gaze finally settling on the Grim Reaper. He dropped his bag at his feet. “Looks like I arrived just in time.” “Mason.” My entire face burned and I didn’t know what to say. I didn’t dare look at Kyrie. What on Earth had I been thinking? I had a boyfriend, I was... I was /intended/. And Kyrie... “I think you’ll be surprised at how much Diannah has improved on her skills,” he said simply, as if Mason hadn’t just caught us nearly kissing. He gestured back to the board I’d erected, marred with Orius’ face and several puncture marks. “I’m sure she’d love to show you.” He strode past me and went to leave. Mason didn’t move from the doorway. “Trying to take advantage as soon as my back’s turned,” he murmured and Kyrie gave a laugh. “Not really. I’m a Grim Reaper. I don’t have it in me to be emotional connected to anybody.” For some reason, this was like one of my flaming arrows in the heart. Was that true? And if it was... What the hell had /that/ just been? “You’re a clever boy, Mason. Work it out.” This time, Mason did let him pass, but he turned and stared at him until he’d disappeared from sight. “It wasn’t... It wasn’t what it looked like,” I said, trembling as I stepped forward, already cursing myself for uttering such a cliche saying, one that screamed guilt. But Mason simply turned back to me and smiled, any upset washed away entirely. “I know. I /trust/ you, Diannah. You’re my girl. But, him?” He scowled and came further into the room. “Remi was right about him.” I swallowed, despite the dryness of my throat, then forced a bright smile. “And Kyrie was right when he said I’d improved. Look.” I pointed out the marks left in the middle of Orius’ sketched forehead, which was really just one big mark as Kyrie had hit my own mark with terrifying accuracy. Mason did a double-take at the drawing, then moved past me to investigate. “Is that... Orius?” I nodded. Mason lingered on it for a moment before stepping back and throwing a smile over his shoulder. “Good shot.” “Thank you.” “Now come here,” he said, turning and opening his arms. “I’ve missed you.” “I’ve missed you too,” I whispered as I hurried into his open arms and crushed myself against his chest. Mason held me tight, pressing a firm kiss to the top of my head and I did my best to swallow the guilt threatening to eat me up.
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Post by MrsCarterRivera on Apr 29, 2023 5:06:32 GMT -5
Chapter Twenty-Two
August brought with it a heatwave that cooked the countryside, the estate and the very manor itself. Oli had headed off to Spain on her holiday with her dad, leaving me to keep myself entertained at home. She’d also tasked me with watching every new release of Doug Appleby videos and I’d just finished sending her the update of the latest one. /He got arrested?!/ she messaged me back that afternoon. /He was caught breaking into the military base. They questioned him for hours, but they released him on bail. He posted about it this morning./ /Oh my gawd, he’s such a bad boy, I just can’t. Miss you, Dee xx/ /Miss you more! Xx/ Over the first few weeks of summer, life fell into an easy routine. I spent my days either working with the Stream, practising with my Light or taking idle walks through the estate with Mason. He held my hand as we wandered through roses wilting from the heat, took solace in the shade from the overhanging trees. For the first time in weeks, everything felt normal. He hadn’t mentioned that day in the library with Kyrie and neither had I. There were no attacks, no bad news and my dreams were demon-free. I still wasn’t sure if Kerslake and Pim had figured out a way to severe the connection, but I took Orius’ absence as a good sign. If anything, it felt like the calm before the storm, the dark stain on the horizon growing ever closer. By the time Oli arrived back off her holiday, looking browner than ever, I was feeling a lot happier. I hadn't allowed my thoughts to linger on Kyrie for long, throwing myself into whatever summer activities I could with Mason and Oli. We travelled over to the beach for a couple of afternoons one week, but mainly stayed around the estate, where we played a bit of Crazy Golf, messed around with a tennis ball and rackets on the lawn, or sunbathed. On the days when it was simply too warm, we lounged around in my room with the fan on, watching old reruns of Doug Appleby as we awaited a new release. But, September brought its own bittersweet woes, and that was because Oli was off to University. We'd kind of avoided speaking about it, simply making the most of our time with each other, but in reality... This would be the first time we'd be apart since that fateful day in primary school. I'd long accepted that Shepherding was my life, my own personal dream, but it just felt as if we were heading on two different paths now. Oli was taking an art degree, she'd probably meet like-minded artsy friends. Maybe a tiny bit of me of jealous, but I smothered that feeling whenever it arose. I was happy for Oli, without a doubt. I was just afraid to get left behind. "I'll be back during the October half-term," Oli promised the day she left, her car packed to bursting, Mr Benson still wiping the tears from the corners of his eyes. She'd hugged me tight. "Just in time for your birthday, bitch. I wouldn't miss it for the world. I love you." Mason had proved a good distraction. He was still with us, taking calls with his family every evening. I'd join the video calls, blushing whenever Rita dropped hints about weddings and becoming a grandparent. Mason would always chuckle and roll his eyes, which made me feel a little better. Remi accompanied my training with Kyrie, Kerslake dropping by whenever he was able. He'd been away a lot more recently, leaving Kyrie to take the reigns in my training. To give him credit, he kept things professional. Maybe it was because of Remi's presence, who'd somehow found out about the whole thing and kept up a smug arrogant air whenever he was around. I'd barely seen Kyrie around the house as he'd managed to avoid Mason and I at all costs, but mid-September, things took a surprising turn. Mason appeared in the clearing. I'd been fighting Kyrie, our swords clashing as we deflected each other's blows with ease, Remi soaring above the trees overhead. Kyrie had been especially quiet today, but I hadn't dared ask what was wrong. Not with Remi in earshot. When Mason called out, we stopped sparring and I turned, smile brightening when I realised who it was. "Mason!" He strode over to greet us as I fought to catch my breath; sweat trickled down the nape of my neck. "I feel sorry for any demon who crosses your path," he grinned at me, but I saw his gaze shift to Kyrie, the uncertainty there. I also looked at Kyrie, widening my eyes a little and he straightened, clearing his throat. "She's certainly her mother's daughter," Kyrie smiled, inclining his head. Mason's smile brightened and I could see the way his shoulders sagged in relief. He'd always held Kyrie on such a pedestal, I hadn't stopped to think of the friendship /he'd/ been trying to forge with the Grim Reaper. Probably for those 'future connections' my mother always said we needed. Mason's gaze met mine, his smile soft. "She really is. Kickass demon slayer." I laughed nervously, thankful for the roaring fire hiding my blush. "Not quite, but I appreciate the sentiment." "Well, now I just feel rusty." Mason anxiously glanced between us. "Mind if I start joining you? If what Kerslake's saying is true... Then, it wouldn't hurt to be a little more prepared." I glanced to Kyrie. I swore for a brief heartbeat that he stilled, something unreadable flickering in his eyes. But, the smile slid swiftly into place and he nodded, stepping back and gesturing towards me. "Feel free." I released a breath I hadn't realised I was holding. I wasn't quite sure if the heavy weight in the pit of my stomach was disappointment or guilt.
---
October brought a cold snap, which had me wandering the estate with a woolly hat and gloves. It was also the first time I'd been able to properly leave the boundaries of my home and actually /do/ something. Pim and my parents had agreed to let me go on a Haunting as long as Remi and Mason were with me. To be honest, I would have agreed on any conditions, so I thought I got a pretty fair deal. Mason had brought Colsus along, the Spider Monkey Guide perched, silently as ever, on his shoulder. My boyfriend had opted for a fur-trimmed coat to combat the bitter wind, but I could only see half of the monkey's little face sticking out. He was certainly not as lively as I remembered. I leaned close to get a better look... and he disappeared entirely. "Where'd he go?" "He said he was going to follow in the Astral. He's in a funny mood today," Mason shrugged. "I think it's the change in the weather. Fleur's had a bad temper all day," Remi called back from where he was striding ahead. We’d arrived at a family home not far from the coast. A family had moved in over winter and had some strange occurrences happening in the home ever since. The spooky happenings were happening more and more regularly and getting more and more aggressive with each event. Either a poltergeist or a very angry Lost Soul. Making our way up the driveway, past the silver BMW that was parked on the red brick, Remi disappeared brought the front door to inspect the place while we knocked. After a moment, a young woman with frazzled hair pulled into a bun answer. “Oh, god, I’m so glad you’re here.” By the strained look on her face, she’d clearly been waiting for our arrival. She stepped aside to let me and Mason in. “You’ll have to mind the mess. Two of my kids were off sick with chicken pox recently. They were fine, they just spent a week destroying my house, I-“ She shut the front door and swept the back of her hand over her brow. “I forgot to introduce myself. I’m Mara ??. Can I get you a drink or anything?” “No, thank you, ma’am,” Mason smiled with a courteous nod. “But, we’d actually really like to hear your story.” “Oh, yeah. Come on through here.” We followed through into the front room, stepping carefully over strewn toys that looked like some kind of plastic battle field. I settled on the sofa beside Mason, noticing Remi appear at the corner of my eye. I didn’t risk looking at him though. Mara was watching us like a hawk from her perch in the edge of a worn armchair. “So, we moved in last November. Everything was fine at first, but we noticed we kept misplacing things, losing them. I mean, it isn’t hard in this house,” she said, looking around with an air of dejection. “But, then we’d come in to find all the cupboard doors open. Thought it was the kids at first, but...” Mara shifted uncomfortably. “One night, me and my husband, Gary, we were in bed. It was only about nine pm, kids were asleep... the bed started shaking. Like /proper/ shaking. We didn’t sleep in there for two weeks, we slept on the sofa.” She looked around with a shiver. “It’s just been getting worse from there. And... Last night, I saw it. A... A shadow being. I swear I’m not crazy. I mean, I’ve always believed in this stuff, but...” She swallowed. “It’s different when it’s in your own home. And I’ve got kids here.” “I completely understand,” I replied softly, shifting forward in my seat. “And please, you’re not crazy. I’ve made a living out of this.” Mara gave me a wry, if tired smile. “Which makes you a lot braver than me. Do you... do you think you can make it go away?” “We can definitely try,” I replied, shooting a glance at Mason, who nodded. Mara stood, pushing a few stray frazzles of hair from her eyes. “I’ve got to go to town for an hour or so. I... I don’t really want to be here in case you make it angrier.” I nodded my understanding, then stood with Mason. “Please don’t worry. It shouldn’t take too long. We’ll start downstairs and see what we can figure out. Sometimes they like to hide if they know there’s a chance they’ll be banished from a place.” Another nervous look crossed her face, but she nodded. “Sure, sure. Do whatever it is you need to do.” When she’d left, handbag swinging from her arm, we gathered in the front room. Remi cleated his throat and glanced towards the ceiling. “He’s upstairs. A Lost Soul. Apparently this is his house and he doesn’t want a bunch of snotty-nosed brats running havoc around the place.” He grimaced a little. “His exact words. House was empty for eight years after he died and I guess he didn’t see the point of passing over when everything he wanted was right here.” I groaned softly. Stubborn Souls could be really frustrating. “I hope you’re feeling especially persuasive today,” I muttered to my Guardian, as we turned and traipsed upstairs. Remi led us to the master bedroom. The large double bed was still unmade, pressed against the back wall and dominated either side by two large chest of drawers, which doubled as bedside tables judging by the stuff littering the top; lamps, books, packets of baby woes and high blood pressure tablets. A large pile of laundry was heaped in one corner and there were more toys in here, scattered in various places over the carpet. It was clear the last thing this mother needed was an irate ghost roaming the premises. Remi pointed to the laundry pile, then approached. “Please, show yourself.” “No,” snapped the laundry pile. “Get out of here. Get here of here or I’ll get angry!” “Do you have a name?” I asked gently, coming forward and I could almost sense the shift in attention. I peered at the dirty pile of clothes. “I’d love to talk to you.” “How can she hear me?” His question obviously directed to Remi, who smiled. “She’s a Shepherd. It’s their job to be able to communicate with you.” “And the boy?” “Yes, both of them.” Remi’s voice softened. “We’re here to help you.” “Well, I don’t want your help. I want these little beasts out of my house!” “We can help you with that,” Mason spoke up, eyes fixed on the laundry pile. “But it would be nice to see you first.” I nodded eagerly. There was a moment of hesitation before the head and shoulders of an old man popped through the top of the pile. He was formed from silvery mist like all the ghosts, shrewd eyes peering out from beneath horn-rimmed glasses. His comb-over flapped as he jerked his mistrustful gaze between us. “How can you help?” He sneered, eyes settling on Remi. “I know why you’re here. To get rid of me. To make me go into the Light! Well, I ain’t going!” He disappeared back into the laundry. Remi sighed and moved closer. “Listen, I understand why you hung around, but there’s nothing here for you anymore.“ Silence. “You can make this easy or you can make this hard-“ The laundry pile exploded and I was hit with a dirty pair of underpants before I’d even realised what had happened. The ghost burst from the pile, a whirl of silver as he blasted across the room and collided with the right-hand-side chest of drawers. It shook violently before all the drawers burst open, their contents exploding free. I dodged a flying book, Remi already generating light between his hand. “Get out of my house!” The ghost roared, the lights swinging and flickering overhead. “Diannah!” I turned when Mason called my name, seeing the lamp on the beside grow brighter and brighter and brighter - it popped, shards of bulb flying. This was getting ridiculous. The ghost pelted from the chest of drawers and disappeared through the wall, where we heard it crashing around the bathroom. I ran through, Mason at my heels, at the sound of shattering glass. The mirror was smashed and hanging lopsided off the wall, toothpaste tubes and toothbrushes scattered around on the floor. The bath taps turned on full blast, as did the sink taps. I rushed to turn them off. I turned back, gasping when I saw the light fixture trembling above Mason’s head. Without thinking, I formed the sword in my hand and swung it over his head just as the light fixture fell, knocking it clean aside (totally rewrite lol) Mason looked at me with wide eyes. “Thanks.” “No problem,” I grinned. Behind us, the shower curtain was ripped from the rails. “Damage control, Remi!” I shouted and he nodded, Light forming between his cupped hands from where he stood in the doorway. The Light grew, flickering and dazzling, before the blast ran through the whole house like some sort of spiritual EMP. A ringing silence followed, then a thud from the other room. We hurried through, finding the ghost laid on the bedroom floor between two single beds. He was encased with Light and he was looking at us with so much fury I actually felt a little bad. But, then, there were children in this house and this guy really needed to chill. Remi stopped beside him and knelt down, that same soft look on his face. “You have nothing to fear.” “This is my home! You have no right!” The Light enveloped him, growing ever brighter, and suddenly his twisted angry features shifted. The ghost widened his eyes and began to tremble. “Lilith? Lilith, dear, is that you?” He began to sob. “Oh, Lilith.” I made out the silvery hand which appeared above him, waiting for him, and he reached up to clasp it. A moment later, the Light and the ghost faded to nothing. I blinked back the tears stinging my eyes and smiled to Remi and Mason. “I hope he’s settled now.” “Me too,” Mason murmured and we all straightened, looking around. “Who says we can’t fix this mess before Mara comes home?” “Challenge accepted,” Mason smirked. I started in the bathroom. I refitted the shower curtain, then cleaned up the shattered glass over the floor. Gathering the tossed about toothbrushes and toothpaste tubes, I stuck them back in their holders by the sink and made a note of the things we’d need to replace, including the wall cabinet and the light fitting. Mason tidied the bedrooms and downstairs, we gathered all the toys and dumped them back into the toy box sat beneath the living room window. Mara returned a few minutes later, face drawn as she looked around. “H-How did I go?” “Well, you’ll be happy to know your resident ghost has gone,” Mason smiled, his arm around my waist. “He’d lived in this home before you moved in and wasn’t quite ready to leave.” “But, it’s definitely gone?” We nodded and she let out a sigh of relief. Then, I took a deep breath and gave her an apologetic look. “I’m afraid he did make a bit of a mess before we managed to neutralise him, but we’ll obviously pay for all of the damages.” I took her upstairs to show her, explaining what had happened as I did. She looked around the bathroom, then began to laugh. “Oh, you know what? I don’t even care. I’m just glad that thing’s gone and I’ll be able to get a decent night sleep for the first time in months.” She pulled me into a tight hug. “Thank you. Thank you so much.” We left half an hour later, after a generous helping a tea and biscuits. Remi disappeared, leaving us to drive home alone. At the car, Mason snagged my wrist and pulled me close, lips seeking mine, and I sank into him with a smile. “You saved my life, you know,” he murmured, brushing my hair behind my ear. “I... It was nothing,” I blushed as he cupped my face. “It was everything,” he replied and kissed me again. I couldn’t keep the smile off my face the entire ride home.
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