Chapter 37

A few weeks later the members of the castle prepare for the return of King Cade, as well as King Luke and Queen Roonie. Busy maids scurry around making sure everything is in top shape for the King's arrival. Everyone it seems has tried to think of any way to pull me from this statue-like state, but to no avail. Roonie and Luke arrive back from their honeymoon, and come to see me straight away. "Gosh Lukey, just look at her! I hate that this has happened to her! Nora, if you can hear me, we brought you some gifts from France. I'll just lay them here" Roonie tells me in an extra loud voice as if I couldn't hear her otherwise. She gives me a soft kiss on the forehead, and Luke places a hand on my shoulder before they turn to leave the room. "If only they could hear me. Will I be stuck like this forever?!" I wonder to myself. Having tried everything I could think of to get my body to move, or my mouth to speak, I now spend my days laying here, watching everyone else through my visions. When I heard the news that Cade is returning, my heart raced and I knew right then that he would stop at nothing to help rescue me from this affliction. 

My thoughts are broken as a vision forms, and I see Alex approaching Tulip's room. "Knock, knock! I hope I'm not disturbing you sweetie" he announces. Tulip gives him a kind smile and softly blushes a bit before answering, "Of course not! Just getting in a bit of reading while everyone is occupied." Tulip closes her book and extends her hand offering Alex a seat in the chair near hers. "I see, well the castle is quite busy. That for us is a fortunate thing I think! With everyone busy I know we can have a moment to ourselves without interruption" he explains. He scoots closer to her and takes her hands into his before continuing, "You know I've been thinking, Brendlewood is great and all but, with Blue Haven operational, I will be going home soon. I received word that Ector has already returned there, I know he missed home terribly, and I will be joining him as soon as I am able." Tulip grows quiet at this and looks down at the cover of the book in her lap. Alex nervously looks out the window, then back again at Tulip. 

"So, I know we've briefly talked on it before, but I was hoping you would join me. Come away with me darling, come to Blue Haven" he tells her. Tulip smiles and looks into Alex's eyes, "Really? I would love to, but to be honest I'm kind of nervous. I've never lived anywhere but Brendlewood, and I'm not sure what it would be like to live in a kingdom where there aren't any faeries." Alex softly laughs, "Sweetie the citizens of Blue Haven won't care that you are a faerie. Besides it's not like you would be spending alot of time with them." She gives him strange look and replies, "Aw..wait why won't I be spending alot of time with them?" He gently pats her on the knee, "Oh darling you'll be fine! You'll be so busy preparing enchantments and taking care of our home there won't be time for gallivanting with the villagers." Tulip looks taken aback as she stands, "You expect me to just work all day and come home and clean? What about children, weren't you planning on having any?" "Well of course but that's we'll have a nanny to look after them. The town could really use your help, and I love you so much sweetie. I want to share our lives together in Blue Haven" he explains. Tulip thinks for a moment, "My whole life has been spent here, all my friends are here. But, maybe it's time for a new beginning, one making new memories. Alright Alex, I will come with you!" He takes her in his arms and kisses her sweetly before he leaves to make ready the preparations. 

I watch as Tulip too leaves the room, but instead of heading to gather the maids to help her pack, she leaves the castle. "Where could she be off to?" I think to myself. Tulip continues through the courtyard, and down into the village. She happily greets the townspeople along her way, but doesn't stop for conversation. On the far outskirts of the village she enters the woods. As part of the protective spells of the woods her wings could not carry her, but she trots happily into the forest none the less. She follows a small stream through the woods, collecting wildflowers as she goes. She steps lightly along the forest floor, as though her feet know where each tree root and mossy patch are lurking. Finally she reaches a small clearing where two or three dozen tombstones are placed here and there. Carefully she makes her way to two medium-sized gravestones that reside next to one another, and places a handful of flowers on each of them. The stones read the names James Warner and Daisy Warner, Tulip's parents. 

"Hey Mom and Dad, I miss you so much. I really wish you were here right now. Alex has asked me to move to Blue Haven with him, and I really want to. I care about him alot. I just think he expects me to be a certain way when we get there, but it could be good for me. It made me think of leaving Brendlewood though, what I would be leaving, and who. Most of my best memories here were shared with Jax, and by leaving I'll be making new memories in a new kingdom.  That's why I'm doing it, you know, for a fresh start. I promise to come visit here though, I just wanted to say goodbye for now. I love you guys so much" Tulip says as tears fill her eyes. She rises and turns to leave but no sooner is she back in the woods when the ground around her gives a slight rumble. "Who's there?" she calls out. A low growl comes from the thick forest bushes and she pauses. All at once two large trolls emerge from the brambles on either side of her, and she screams as she steps into a run. The large hairy trolls stand more than twice her height and their large bulging feet carry them double time what Tulip can run. 

Glancing back she see's them making ground on her quickly. Her nimble feet hop gracefully over the tree roots that she knows so well. Soon she realizes that she cannot hear the brook any longer, and fears that she is being chased away from the path to the village. The ground shakes under her feet as she runs, and the trolls grunts grow nearer. The path becomes unfamiliar and making her way through the forest becomes more difficult as something brushes against her shoulder. Pain shoots through her right shoulder, but she doesn't dare stop or even glance at it. Tangles of stringy vines hang from overhead and the forest becomes a mossy tree tunnel. A lone tree trunk up ahead has fallen across the path, and she readies herself to jump over it. Running with all her might and jumping hard to clear it, she is abruptly yanked backwards and lands on the forest floor staring skyward. Catching a glimpse of the hem of her skirt, she see's it has caught hold of a pointy branch on the fallen trunk. Before she can get to her feet however, something wet and especially smelly plops onto her abdomen. She cringes looking at the slime, then back up to where it has fallen from. Standing over her with a disgusting amount of drool hanging from their jutted jaws are two very large, very hungry looking trolls. 

The larger of the two places his large mossy hand on her chest pinning her down and she lets out a horrified scream as he licks his chops. The slightly smaller troll takes her foot in his grasp and removes her shoe. With her shoe in one hand, and her ankle in the other. He sticks out his large black tongue and licks the soul of her foot then takes a bite out of her shoe and chews on it dumbly. The other troll leans closer towards her, opening his jaw widely, ready to chomp down on her head. Screaming she tries to wiggle free, but the trolls brute strength is no match for her. He draws closer and closer until his entire mouth is almost engulfing her head, and his vile breath is on her face. Warm saliva drips from his watering mouth, and she scrunches her eyes shut ready for the attack. With a final scream she feels her foot being released, and the larger trolls head falls on top of her face, then suddenly rolls off to one side. Slowly she opens her eyes, and see's the edge of a blooded blade inches from her face, two trolls with severed heads lay beside her, and Jax Debois stands over her with a worried expression on his face.  

Returning the sword to its sheath, he extends his hand to help her up. "Are you alright?" he asks as he helps her get to her feet. Tulip shakes uncontrollably and he puts his arms around her, as she begins to cry. Tulips voice trembles as she replies, "I-I am. Oh Jax thank you for saving me!" Jax holds her strongly in his arms before she leans out of their embrace. "How did you know where to find me, or that I would even be here?" she asks wiping her tears. Jax rubs a hand along the back of his neck and sheepishly replies, "I...uh...I followed you. I'm sorry Tulip, I overheard you talking with Alex about going to Blue Haven. I just wanted a chance to talk to you one on one, without him butting in. I know I've messed up bad, on more than one occasion, and I take full responsibility for that. I tried to step back and let you two be together, but I just knew that if I didn't try to win you back, I would regret it for the rest of my life. Tulip darling, I have loved you since we were kids. I saw that hair as bright as the sun, you turned around and your porcelain skin shone in the sun rays, and I knew at that moment I wanted to be with you. Please my love, please give me this one last chance, and I swear to you that you will not regret it. I love you Tulip, and I will spend each waking moment proving that to you."

Tulip stands speechless gazing into Jax's eyes, wondering if she can believe the words he is telling her. She feels herself being drawn to him, for deep in her heart she is still much in love with him. Tearing her eyes from his, she composes herself; patting off dirt and fixing her hair nervously. He gently turns her head to face him once again, and looks upon her with questions in his eyes. She softly replies, "Jax I, I don't know. I need to think..." She turns to leave him but he catches her by the hand, "Tulip wait" he pleas. She takes her hand from his, gives him one last look and asks him not to follow her. She leaves him there as she runs through the forest, and finds her way back to the village. Emerging from the forest at a bit of a run, she bumps right into Bonnie, who is tending to her small garden. "Watch it- Ahh!" Bonnie exclaims and she topples over right onto a tomato plant. "Oh gosh Bon I'm so sorry!" Tulip gasps helping Bonnie to her feet. 

"What brings you to the village?" Bonnie asks frowning a bit at the state of Tulip. "My gosh girl, what ever happened to your arm!?" Bonnie continues pointing out the large gash in Tulip's shoulder. "Must've been the troll" Tulip says under her breath. Bonnie looks absolutely shocked as Tulip recalls what just happened, and tells her all about what Jax said. "I just don't know Bonnie. I know it's a bit awkward to talk to you about him, since you two dated for awhile..." Tulip says wondering if she's said too much. "Well true it could've been a bit awkward, but we're all past that now! I'm with Arthur, and well, I'm very happy. I know you love him Tulip, and there's not a doubt in my mind that he loves you...but, well he's got what we call a wandering eye. Can't commit, ya know? I would tell you maybe give him a chance except..." Bonnie trails off. 

"Except what?" Tulip asks a little impatiently. "You see uh, Clover is pregnant. She's been telling people around the village that Jax is the father you see. All I'm saying is to make sure, think on it. Men are such pigs you know! Sometimes Arthur tries arguing with me, but I give him one look and BAM! He straightens right up! You gotta know how to put your foot down!" Bonnie says with a little smile. Tulip stands in disbelief at the news of Jax becoming a father to Clover's baby. A look of sadness comes over her, but then she perks up and snaps, "You know what Bonnie! I don't have to think about it, Alex has been nothing but wonderful to me and why shouldn't I go with him to Blue Haven! My minds made up! Thank you for being such a good friend to me." Bonnie smiles and the two embrace before Tulip tells her she'll write once she's settled. Bonnie waves her goodbye with a fist full of turnips in hand as she calls out, "Bye Tulip!  Get that shoulder cleaned up, and safe travels!"

Back in the palace Tulip and one of the maids begin packing her belongings after her shoulder has been tended to. Tulip rambles on and on to the maid trying to reassure herself that she is indeed making the right decision, when they hear a yelp of pain coming from down the hall. The two follow the sound down the hall where they find Shelly crying out in pain in her bed. Midi, who is with her, turns and expresses her thankfulness at their arrival.  "Tinette get some extra linens" she tells the maid. "Ma'am have you seen Sir Thatcher, he's a' needin to be here!" she asks Tulip. "I'll gather the others right away!" she replies before turning to leave the room. My vision doesn't continue following Tulip, but instead remains with Shelly, who is wailing and wriggling in pain upon her bed. "There now majesty, easy now. Just try to relax! Not time to push just yet!" Midi soothes as she helps prop Shelly up with an additional pillow. 

Shortly the nurse arrives, then she and Midi begin preparing everything for the baby to arrive. Thatcher bursts through the door, soaked in a panicked sweat. "I'm here! I'm here!" he exclaims as Tinette hurriedly shoo's him from the room. "WAIT! Please let him stay!" Shelly calls out. The nurse and maids exchange awkward looks, but shrug and wave him in. "Thank you, the others are just waiting outside in the reading cove" he tells them as he takes a seat next to Shelly. "Not to worry darling, I'm here now" he tells her, taking her hand into his. She gives him a warm smile, but her brows furrow as she feels another contraction coming on, and she gives his hand a firm squeeze. 

The nurse checks Shelly's vitals and tells her that it is time to begin pushing. Midi places a cool towel on Shelly's forehead and soothingly says, "Not long til the little bundle will be here!" The nurse gets into position and instructs Shelly to push, push, push! Shelly braces herself as she breathes heavily and pain shoots through her body. She gives a strong push, as the nurse exclaims, "That's it your highness, your little one is almost here! Another big push and we'll welcome her to the world!" Thatcher smiles at Shelly, but see's that she's exhausted. "Come on breathe with me darling! You can do this" he tells her running his free hand through her hair. "Ok majesty a big push now, you can do it!" the nurse tells her. Shelly struggles to push, but finally manages to give it all she's got. Soon the room is filled with the sound of a baby cry, and Midi rushes over to clean up the little one. 

Shelly and Thatcher exchange happy smiles as Midi hands the baby to Shelly. "Thatcher dear will you see the others in?" Shelly asks. He agrees and waves the others in. Everyone crowds around excitedly and Thatcher stands proudly, "May I present Juliana Sky Mason; Princess of Blue Haven." The men shake his hand in congratulations, and the women gather around to take turns holding the new little bundle of joy. 

"Oh look here! She has a very unique birthmark on the palm of her hand! Cirrus has told me about special birthmarks being destined for greatness!" Tulip tells Shelly excitedly pointing at the mark on Juliana's palm. "Oh I see it! It almost looks like a little mouth; like a pair of lips!" Roonie says excitedly. "I see it too!" Bonnie mentions. The others nod and make comments about the child's birthmark as Tulip darts from the room returning shortly with a very large old book. She turns the pages furiously, searching its contents. "Here we go! It appears she has the ability to speak with those who have died. There is a side effect of being born with this skill however" Tulip tells the group. Shelly and Thatcher look nervously at one another before asking Tulip what this side effect is. "It says here that those born with this gift will age slower than normal. It could be anywhere from 2 - 5 years slower than a child born without it" Tulip explains.  

The group murmurs to one another about how exciting this is. Roonie mentions that she's heard of gifts like these, and that the children grow up just fine. "They just age slower really, and her gift can be learned how to control" Roonie tells Shelly. Thatcher gives Shelly a look as if to question her feelings on the issue. Shelly gives him a kind smile, "Don't worry my love everything will be just fine. My mother used to tell me stories of the fae, and of their many gifts that the children can be born with. It's spectacular really!" Thatcher returns her smile and nods, "Well this is certainly good news! As a human we never heard of special gifts, magic enchantments and such. I always wondered how of all the human lands ours fell into the magical realm." "That's because a very long time ago Blue Haven was the home to merfolk. They intended on moving their families to the coast of Castlerock, but one young man sought out a witch to transform himself into a human. He then met a human lady that was temporarily docked on the shores there. The two fell in love, and became rulers of Blue Haven" Jax explains. 

"Nora my love....Nora darling" I hear Cade whisper as the vision of the group from downstairs becomes blurry and fades. "Oh my sweet, my darling wonderful Cade! How happy I am to see you!" I try to cry out but with no success. He brushes his cheek against mine, and tenderly kisses my lips. Softly sweeping his fingertips through my hair I feel something land upon my cheek, and find that silent tears are falling from his eyes. He wipes them gently away and whispers, "My dearest we will find a way to release you from this terrible condition. I will stop at nothing til it's done. I love you baby." He kisses my lips once more and then leaves my side. As he leaves my vision of the group returns, fuzzy at first, then it comes into focus.

"Your majesty! Welcome home!" the maids cry out bowing low as Cade opens the door. "We've been hearing this story for years, I'm surprised the humans didn't pass their own history down" Cade forces a laugh as he enters the room. "Just like my Cade, being brave for the others" I think to myself. Everyone welcomes Cade home as he congratulates Shelly and Thatcher on the baby. Roonie rushes to him for an embrace but her foot catches against the leg of the bed, and she topples to the ground. Luke gives her a smile and helps her to her feet as Cade pulls her into a hug. "I see some things never change" he chuckles giving her a squeeze. "How did things go with the lycans? Where do we stand with bringing down Dragon Valley" Thatcher asks bluntly. "Darling he's only just returned! Don't bombard him all at once" Shelly playfully scolds. "That's quite alright Shelly. The soldiers have done a fantastic job, but have grown weary. We've returned, and I've instructed a new group of men to continue the lycan hunt. I dare not strike battle with Dragon Valley under our circumstances. With Learia being rebuilt, and Blue Haven barely functional we wouldn't stand a chance" he tells them all. 

The group voices their agreement before Alex and Tulip fill him in on their plans to move to Blue Haven, and Luke describes the fun he and Roonie had on their honeymoon. "You seem in good spirits Cade! I'm glad of it, but have you been to see the Queen?" Arthur asks. Cade's wide smile falls, but he catches himself and forces his mouth into the most brave face he can muster. "I have indeed. It is with great sadness in my heart that I am lost for a solution. Where is dear Cirrus? Surely she can bring my Nora out of this state!" The others all exchange curious looks with each other; surprised that Cade isn't aware of Cirrus's absence. They tell him all about her note, and how they even sent word to Stone Ridge but they have yet to see her. 

"I think it is clear what we must do my friends. With our freshened solider's on hunt for the lycan, and our weary one's getting their well deserved rest, I have an idea. It's a little unorthodox, but hear me out. I move to place the royal court in charge of Brendlewood for a short time, with no immediate threat to the kingdom they should be able to do their duty. Of course there will be guards and soldiers protecting the kingdom as well" Cade informs them. He pauses reading their faces before continuing, "I think we should go find Cirrus." The others gasp and comment to one another of the dangers, the adventure, and what an odd bunch they would make for a search party. "I  know, I know. You are all thinking 'What good could we do'? But, friends I tell you this, we are a diverse group with much to offer. Cirrus is one of our own, and we need to be the ones to bring her home!" he says. They think for a moment then erupt in approval. 

"Yes what better team than us!" Jax cheers as he raises his fist in the air. "Here, Here!" Luke joins in. "We're sure to find her!" Bonnie calls out. Thatcher looks to Shelly, and places his hand on her shoulder. "I feel like I should help dear, and you and the baby should stay where it's safe" he tells her calmly. "I think not! Cirrus has been like a mother to me, I simply must help find her. "But Shelly, think of the baby" Tulip says before she can help it. "I'm sorry, it's not my business" she continues. "Midi what do you think? Would you be able to look after our precious daughter in our absence? Surely we won't be gone more than a fortnight" Shelly says. "Aye your highness, I've looked after more royal tykes than I can count. She'll be excellent care until your return" Midi replies with a curtsy. "Then it's all settled!" Arthur chimes in. Cade turns to Tulip and kindly asks, "Tulip I must ask you a favor. With Cirrus gone, you are the most skilled enchantress in the kingdom. I wonder if you might stay with Nora, and see if you can do anything to help free her from her petrified prison." "Why of course! I would do anything to help Nora! Plus I can help Midi with the baby" Tulip says turning toward Shelly. She gives a nod and replies, "That would be great, thank you." "I shall stay too your highness. I can help keep the royal court in check and help protect the kingdom. That is of course, with your permission" Alex mentions. Cade nods, "A fine idea!"

While Cade, Alex, and the others talk of the search plan for Cirrus, Jax pulls Tulip to the side. "Have you had anytime to think of a decision regarding our talk this afternoon?" he cautiously asks. "I have. Jax I want to believe you, but there has been too much hurt, and too much deception. I will admit, you had me slightly questioning my decision to be with Alex. When I left the woods I went to see Bonnie, but she gave me some news that helped me confirm my choice. My choice is to be with Alex" she replies. "What do you mean news? What kind of news? I have been with no one since our talk in the library that day a few weeks ago" Jax says in confusion. "Don't play dumb with me Jax, if you can't remember, maybe you should ask Clover" Tulip snaps. "Announcing Miss Clover of the Brendlewood Village" a guard states suddenly appearing at the door. Ignoring him completely Jax responds to Tulip, "Ask Tulip what?" "About our baby" Clover answers. "Our what!?" Jax exclaims in utter shock. 

"Oh he can't talk about that now! We're going on a search and rescue to find Cirrus!" Roonie blurts out as she overhears the conversation. "ROONIE!" Jax whispers harshly as he claps his hand to his forehead. "Oh no you don't! You're not getting off that easy mister! If you are leaving the kingdom, I'm coming with you!" Clover demands. "We do need all the help we can get, and since Tulip and Alex are staying maybe she should come along?" Arthur mentions staring at Clovers beauty. Bonnie gives him a firm nudge and scowls at him fiercely. Arthur continues in a fluster of words, "On second thought maybe it would be better if you st-" "Oh no, I am coming! My baby deserves to spend time with his father. Someones gotta help me carry it" Clover pouts and heaves her chest heavily. A button pops from her blouse under the pressure, spilling her cleavage out even more so than normal. "Oh for heaven sake! Clover cover that mess up, and fine you can come but just know that no one can carry your baby until it is born!" Bonnie erupts shaking her head in disbelief of Clover's stupidity. 

Jax turns back to Tulip, but she and Alex are no longer in the room. "Let us prepare for the journey! Jax will you help me gather supplies?" Cade asks. Jax somberly agrees, wishing there was more time to talk things over with Tulip, and follows Cade out of the room. The vision fades and I lie in bed mulling over all this new information as the door creaks open, and Tulip and Alex enter my chambers. 

Chapter 36

Thanks to these strange visions I have discovered that Thistle was the one responsible for Novus's death. "I need to tell the others" I think to myself. I gather Luke, Roonie, Alex, Tulip, Jax, Cirrus, Arthur, Bonnie, and Thatcher in Shelly's room and inform them of news. Poor Bonnie took it the hardest. I know she thought of Thistle as her own and the news of her betrayal stabbed Bonnie like a knife. Thatcher become upset and spout things about how Ector is their family and he wouldn't be involved in such things. "Look, I know he's your family but the visions I've had have all been true. I swear I'm not making this up, you've got to believe me" I tell them. Thatcher continues making his case about Ector, but Alex places his hand on Thatcher's shoulder and interjects, "Cousin, I'm not completely certain he isn't somehow involved in this. I've been keeping an eye on him since before Blue Haven fell. Sometimes he would disappear late at night, I had no idea what he was up to but I know he was casually dating a woman named Sheila. It might be the same girl." Thatcher's face falls in disbelief and he somberly replies, "Better not take our chances with him then." "All I'm suggesting is that we don't tell him what we know about this woman, and keep an eye on him for sure. For now he can stay" I tell them. They nod in agreement but Tulip frowns and asks, "But how are you having these visions?" "Honestly I'm not sure, but everything I've seen turns out to be true. It's like I am seeing what is happening right that moment even though I'm not in the room or place where it's happening" I tell the group. 

"Can you remember when it started?" Roonie asks. Everyone seems to lean in closer, eagerly waiting for my response. I sit in silence for a few moments then reply, "I'm not exactly sure...but, the first thing that happened that I remember being strange was when Shelly and I went to check on the towns people. It was right after the murders in the village...I heard Shelly talking but she was no where in sight and then a few moments later she came walking down the street to where I was. I had just left Ms. Violette's place..." A smile comes across Cirrus's face, "Ah Ms. Violette! She is a sweet but crazy old so and so! Did she have you eat any strange herbs, or perhaps give you some special oils? She's well known in the village for natural remedies for ailments and such." I search my mind for anything I can remember, then suddenly blurt out, "Yes of course! The amulet!" The other's exchange looks with one another in confusion. "What amulet?" Jax asks. "Well when I went to visit Ms. Violette I was asking her about how everything was going and she started rambling on about wanting to pass on an old amulet to me. That must be what is allowing these visions. Oh dear..she did ask me not to tell anyone about it, which is why I've all but forgotten about it" I reply. 

"That's alright dear, if everyone is willing I can do an enchantment for us that will prevent us from being able to talk about the amulet or it's powers. I've heard of such an amulet. They are very helpful, but very unpredictable; as you never know when a vision will occur" Cirrus mentions. "I think that would be for the best, if everyone agree's" I say as the others nod in agreement. I thank them for their help with the matter and continue, "I think it wise to banish Thistle from the kingdom. Everything we know about her is a lie. She told us she was a young girl when she is in fact a fully grown adult under a disguising spell. She's lied about her identity to others and most importantly she murdered our dear Novus. She cannot be trusted." Everyone comments angrily about the matter and agree's that she needs to go. "I wish we could jail her!" Jax snaps. "I agree but we have no hard proof. The Queen can only banish her on account of hearsay" Luke points out. "That's true!" says Tulip in frustration. "It's better than keeping her here!" Arthur says bitterly. Bonnie gives him a look of hurt and folds her arms. "Darling I'm sorry, I know you considered her our own child. But, she isn't even a child. She is a con artist, a witch, an adult playing us. I promise one day we will have our own little one and you can love them to pieces" Arthur tells her kissing her hand. I've never seen Bonnie so weak; so broken. She bites her lip, as though to keep from crying, and gives Arthur a nod. 

Cirrus presents a handful of black glittering dust from the small satchel around her waist. "Now everyone stand close to Shelly; not you Nora. Someone's got to be able to be able to speak of the amulet if the need arises" she says. Muttering what sounds like dark elvish she tosses the magic dust into the air, but instead of falling straight down, the particles seem to rush to each group members lips. Each person appears to be wearing the most radiant shade of black lipstick I've ever seen. The fairy dust dances along their mouths until Cirrus holds up her hands, and it quickly disappears. "So now we can't speak of the alphabet" Roonie says. Luke gives her a funny look and replies, "Alphabet? You mean the alligators." He claps his hand to his mouth and exclaims, "I didn't mean that! I said alligators!" Jax chuckles, "Looks like it worked, you can't even say alcohol." Jax lets out a laugh and asks Cirrus if they'll ever be able to say "that word" again. "Well yes, of course! But, only after you have slept. When you wake you can use the word again, but you won't be able to give any details about Nora owning one or what it does" Cirrus explains.  

I head to the throne room and request one of the guards to retrieve Thistle and escort her to me. When she and the guard enter she greets me in a carefree manner, and has transformed herself once again into a child. I give the guard a subtle signal and he slips out of the room, quickly returning with two more guards. "Thistle. Is that your real name?" I ask her. She stares with a puzzled expression on her face before replying, "Y-Yes Queen Nora." Without blinking I ask her if she has ever gone by another name, or if she can remember her last name. She answers "No", but suspicion grows in her eyes. "Are you sure? Because I have reason to believe you've also gone by the name of Sheila Mills, and that your real name is Thistle Parfon! I also have on very good account that you were heard confessing to the murder of Novus Wisteria, and you are in fact not a child at all, but a full grown woman!" I finish, anger overtaking my voice. 

"Those damn maids! Snitchy little filth!" Thistle curses under her breath. "So what! You can't jail me, you have no proof!" she shouts. "No, but I can banish you from this kingdom. Guards, seize her!" I exclaim. The guards rush her but she pulls out her wand and suddenly a thick green smoke spills out surrounding her; transforming her into her true adult form. One of the guards takes her by surprise as he approaches her from behind and snatches her wand from her tightened grip. She screeches loudly with rage as the guard hands me the wand, and the three of them restrain her. I snap the wand in half and with piercing eyes inform her, "Should you seek this place again, you will be killed on sight. Thistle Parfon, you are hereby banished forever from Brendlewood of the fae. Guards please see her out of the kingdom" I instruct. "Yes your majesty" they reply. Thistle's shrieks of rage cause the guards to place a cover over her mouth as she kicks and tries to wrestle free of their grasp. She remains unsuccessful as the guards drag her from the room.   

A few weeks have passed since Luke and Roonie's wedding, and the castle has finally settled down. Luke and Roonie are away on their honeymoon in France, and us girls have been taking turns in reading, and spending time with Shelly, as we promised. Checking in on Shelly I find her and Thatcher talking softly as he gently rubs her belly. "Wonder if it's a boy or a girl?" Thatcher wonders. Shelly smiles, "Either way I just know the baby will be wonderful. I just hope it has your gorgeous hair color! All my little ones have been red heads!" Thatcher lets out a chuckle and kisses her forehead. "Hope I'm not interrupting! Just came to check on you" I speak up. "Oh not at all, just discussing our little one" Shelly says. "I wonder if it's time to find out what you're having?" I ask. Thatcher gives Shelly a strange look, "Wait you can do that?" Shelly laughs, "Well the faeries can. Humans don't have a way to find out?" Thatcher nods and replies, "Well the humans that live outside the magic realm have high tech machines that can show pictures of the baby when it's still inside. It's awful expensive, and we'd have to travel for weeks. You're in no condition for that hun. How do the faeries tell what the gender is?" The three of us sit thinking for a moment. 

"I've never seen it done before, I have just heard that they can" Shelly mentions. "Well being sent here from the past I wouldn't have a clue!" I giggle. "Yea, and over in Blue Haven it's all just a bunch of humans. We don't usually study up on the magical practices of faeries" Thatcher smiles. "I'm sure Cirrus will be able to do it. She's so talented!" I tell them. "Hey that reminds me! How are Tulip's lessons going? Sometimes she'll talk to me about them, but I think she's a little shy about it" Shelly says. Thatcher takes notice of the goose bumps on Shelly's arm and goes to the closet to grab another blanket for her as Shelly and I talk about Tulip's enchantment lesson's with Cirrus. The three of us chat happily for a little while before I bid them good afternoon and head downstairs. 

Later that evening as I snuggle into bed a vision comes into view. Cirrus bumps into Tulip as she rounds the corner in the hallway. "OOF! Oh my goodness! Tulip you scared the dickens out of me," Cirrus laughs. "What drags you from your bed this evening? I was just getting a glass of water, this pesky scratchy throat has got me up half the night" Tulip says. "You ought to make up some nice honey tea, maybe throw in a little rootseed. It helps keep that cough settled. I'm just making my nightly rounds as always. On my way to check on Shelly to see if she needs anything and how she's feeling." Cirrus tells Tulip. "I just peeked in to check on her. She and Thatcher are doing good and are trying to get some rest," Tulip says. "Good to hear she's feeling better. Ah well, this ole woman needs to get her rest too. You better be heading to bed yourself. Tomorrow I've got a very exciting lesson planned for your enchantments!" Cirrus says with a smile. Tulip nods and takes off to her chambers. 

As Cirrus continues walking down the empty hallway, a draft steals the light of her candle and she is suddenly left in darkness. She feels someone grab her from behind, but as she tries to scream, a cloth covers her mouth and the world grows dark. 

Three hours later....

As Cirrus awakens, she finds herself in a strange room with two figures that look like shadows standing in front of her whispering. When her eyes come into focus, she see's a strange woman with stringy brown hair standing with Ector. "What on earth!" Cirrus begins but is cut off by the woman, who instructs Ector to cover Cirrus's mouth.. She thrusts her finger at Cirrus and says, "Ah you're awake. So you're the famous Cirrus that everyone in town is buzzing about! I have heard of your powers and how you do such amazing things. Well here's the way this is gonna go down grandma, you will write a very convincing letter about how you have left to assist some of the folks in Stoneridge. Meanwhile you will be assisting us. Should you choose not to consent or perform any type of malicious spells etc, your precious kingdom will be at the mercy of the army that is awaiting my word. Trust me with your king gone and your tiny little army, Brendlewood wouldn't stand a chance. You however would be kept alive, and day by day put under torture. Only enough to bring you to the edge of death, but never the sweet release. Do I make myself clear?" Cirrus nods in fear behind the tape across her mouth. 

A twisted smile forms on the woman's face and she continues, "Now then, we require a potion. One that will put it's owner in a trance-like state. Alive, yes. Able to think, sure. But, completely unable to move or speak. Others will simply think it's some strange illness. Do you consent?" Cirrus's eyes widen with horror and she sits perfectly still for a moment. "I don't even know who this potion is meant for...but our little kingdom wouldn't stand a chance against a mighty army like that, especially with Cade gone. Oh what are we to do! Perhaps I can agree and somehow send word for help" Cirrus thinks to herself. SLAM! Cirrus's thoughts are interrupted by a shooting pain down her left cheek as blood trickles from it, down her arm. Ector stands over her and fiercely states, "Kristen asked you a question!" Cirrus winces with pain and slowly gives a nod. Kristen leans in close to Cirrus, her piercing eyes inches from Cirrus's and sneers, "GOOD!" 

She and Ector cross the room, but Cirrus can just make out what they are saying. Ector smiles at Kristen, and in a low voice tells her, "See darling you are every bit as powerful as your mother." Kristen scowls, "Shut up! I need to be more powerful, can't you understand that! She's the queen of Dragon Valley, the ruler of the largest army in the magical realm. I wonder if the faerie filth can brew up some strength potion for me while she's at it...this would be alot easier if that pathetic witch could perform her spells! She sounds pretty worthless actually." Ector frowns, but quickly hides his expression and replies, "Well she seemed quite powerful until Queen Nora snapped her wand in two! She has no power without it! By the way putting someone in a coma like state seems like it would be pretty advanced if you ask me!" Kristen's face furrows into a horrible look, "Well it's good that no one asked you then, isn't it! You better not be falling for that deplorable witch! You'll ruin everything, you belong with me!" she shouts. Ector apparently realizing how much he's upset her apologizes nervously before she slaps him upside the head, then pulls him into a firm kiss. She smiles that sick smile of hers and states, "Set up everything for her, we must get that potion brewed immediately!" The vision fades and I snap out of my stare. "I've got to do something" I say to myself and jump out of bed in haste.

Springing from the bed in my rush, my foot becomes entangled in the loose covers. I lose my balance, grabbing for anything in arms reach to grab hold of. Unfortunately the closest thing is the bedside lamp, which isn't stable at all. In my panic I grab the lamp but it and the side table come crashing down right on top of my head. For a moment I lie there on the floor, staring at the ceiling, until pain floods my head and the world blurs and grows dark. 

"What happened here?" an eerie voice whispers from what seems like far away. "An accident, it seems. Looks like the nitwit took a fall and got pegged on the head" a man's voice replies. A crackly woman's voice instructs the other two to put me back into bed and get things cleaned up. "Very good now restrain her!" she demands. Their voices seem clearer and closer now. I feel their skin graze along mine, pinning me to the bed; one at my feet, the other at my arms. My eyes gently flutter then fly open as I survey the room frantically. Ector stands over me forcefully restricting the movement of my arms, while Thistle is at the foot of the bed binding my feet and holding them firmly down. The third member I have never met in person, but I know her well enough from the visions I've seen recently. I open my mouth to speak but she swiftly slaps me across the cheek, "No one asked you to speak!" Ector quickly covers my mouth with a strip of tape to prevent me from making any sound. "Kristen! Don't rough her up too much or the plan won't work" Thistle hisses. Kristen shoots Thistle a fiery glance, "How dare you interfere!" Their arguing ceases as I try to break free from their hold. I feel Ector tighten his grip on me, and I'm completely unable to attempt to move. "Both of you cut it out! The potion! Quickly now!" he grunts. Pulling a small vial from her cloak, Kristen leans in close to my face, our noses almost touching each other's. Her putrid breath fills my nostrils as I try to keep from gagging, she whispers cynically, "I'm going to remove this tape, and you will be given a potion to drink. If you scream everyone you hold dear will be slaughtered in front of your very eyes!" Her hazel eyes burn with intensity but they quickly flash to red and then back once again to hazel. Fear washes over me and I shudder in terror. I try to find my courage but something about this woman weakens me and I cower to her threats. 

Violently she rips the tape from my mouth, and I grimace in discomfort. Popping the stopper from the potion vial she readies the container placing its' edge against my lips. I clench my jaw shut tightly and pierce my lips together as hard as I can, but instead of anger a sickening smile spreads across her face and she sneers, "Ah you want to do this the hard way I see..." From her cloak she pulls a metal device that resembles a horses' bridal. With Thistle and Ector holding me down with all their might I can't even feel my body as Kristen prepares the contraption. A flat piece of metal is connected to two outer and inner side pieces and a curve piece on top, on either side is a small gear with a little crank like that of a pencil sharpener. She gives Ector a nod and he presses firmly on a pressure point near my elbow. I gasp in pain and Kristen acts quickly sliding the metal gadget over my head. The flat piece of metal slides horizontally to the back of my mouth, the two inner side strips slide into my mouth and my teeth rest along them preventing me from closing my mouth entirely. The two outer side pieces lay along my cheek and the top follows the curve of my head; the three fasten together at the back of my head. She takes hold of the cranks on either side and turns them as she stands over me smiling. As she turns the cranks my mouth is forced open wider and wider; far wide enough for a bit of potion, but she still continues turning. I wince as best I can and she laughs a little under her breath, "Aw is that hurting?" She gives a final turn as my mouth is stretched as far as it can go before breaking my jaw, and I moan in pain. 

"Now then, shall we try again?" she says callously. She tips the vial slowly into my mouth and from the moment the thick purple slime touches my mouth a burning sensation rips through my nerves. It slides down my mouth, into my throat and down into my stomach, all the while creating a fire like feeling in its' wake. The blood in my veins pumps forcefully, and as I begin to violently convulse, I can hear the malicious muffled laughs of Ector, Thistle, and Kristen. Suddenly I stop moving completely, and Ector removes the metal device. The three of them stand staring at me without a word until finally Thistle speaks, "Well did it work?" Kristen tilts her head from side to side, then quietly says, "We've had our fun, you're free to go." I try to leap off the bed and call for help but my body remains absolutely motionless. No sound escapes my lips, they don't even move though I scream as loud I can. "Too bad, looks as if you're stuck here" Ector mocks before the three of them turn and leave the room. 

I lay in the darkness for what seems like hours, as the morning light begins to shine through the windows Midi enters my room with a younger chambermaid. After seeing the state I'm in and checking me from head to toe she calls for the nurse. "Oh dear, I thought we were done with all this mess! Her majesty must've gotten hold of some omni venenum vines" the nurse replies. "What's that?" the young chambermaid asks. Midi and the nurse turn to the young woman, and the nurse replies, "Well dear, it's a bit like poison ivy. Omni venenum vines grow in the forest, and if you come in contact with a very potent one it can send you into a coma-like state for several weeks. We've tried every remedy imaginable, but it just has to run its' course. I'll have to see that the spells are placed throughout the forest again. I thought we had killed it all off already." The young chambermaid comments about how she's never venturing into the forest unless every inch of her is protected by clothing. Midi cleans me up and dresses me for the day but returns me to my bed. "So very sorry this has happened to you your highness. Don't worry I will see to your every need, and I'll send word to King Cade of your unfortunate state." I try my best to thank her but my body doesn't even twitch, nor does sound emerge from my lips. 

Later, after the room has emptied a vision seeps into my mind, and I see Tulip standing in front of one of the castle doors. She gives a sharp knock, and I hear Shelly call out, "Come in!" Tulip smiles widely and enters the room, giving Shelly a gentle hug. Shelly greets, "Thank you for coming! I know you have been wanting to try out your skills, and it's not every day that you have a pregnant woman available!" Tulips cheeks turn a soft pink and she uncertainly responds, "Are you sure you don't want to have Cirrus do it? I mean, she is the expert. I mean I know the enchantments, I just haven't used them other than at my lesson's." Shelly gives a light-hearted laugh, "Of course! You're one of my dear friends and I know you can do the spell just as well as she can! Plus Cirrus told me the other day that this spell is very safe to perform, so you don't have the worry of doing me or the baby any harm!" Tulip relaxes as she remembers this and cheers up as she takes her place next to Shelly's bed. 

"Ok just lift up your shirt a bit to reveal your bare belly, and we will begin" Tulip tells Shelly. Tulip dips her hand into her little satchel of faerie dust, and whispering soft words of elvish, gently tosses the glittering powder into the air. It lands in little dew drops freckling Shelly's bare stomach glistening in the light. Shelly grins and giggles a bit looking down at her pregnant tummy. "Is it working?" she asks with eagerness in her voice. "We must wait, it will reveal the gender shortly" Tulip tells her just as someone knocks at the door. "Oh that is probably Thatcher" Shelly tells her. "Looks like you're just in time! Come in!" Tulip greets as Thatcher enters the room. 

He beams and takes a seat next to Shelly. "Did I miss anything?" he asks her. Shelly shakes her head excitedly, "We are just waiting to see the gender reveal." Thatcher takes his eyes from Shelly's tummy and asks Tulip what will happen. She gladly responds "Well, in a few minutes the little dew drops will...Oh look!" All three of them fix their eyes on the little sparkling dew drops, as they begin to change colors; blue then pink, then blue again. The vivid brilliance of the light they're producing is mesmerizing as they flash from pink to blue, pink to blue. Suddenly the lights stop and the dew drops resume their clear color once more. Tulip looks confused, and she nervously avoids Shelly and Thatchers eyes. "Tulip..is it supposed to do this?" Shelly asks somewhat baffled. But before Tulip has time to respond, the dew drops color burst with a radiant pink light. Shelly gasps, and Thatcher couldn't smile any bigger if he tried. "Oh gosh it's a girl!! Congratulations you guys! A sweet baby girl will be here before you know it!" Tulip exclaims. She cleans off Shelly's stomach and pulls the ends of her shirt back down. "Thank you so very much! I'm just so happy; a girl!!" Shelly says stumbling over her words as tears of joy run down her cheeks. "You're most welcome my dear friend" Tulip tells her giving her hand a little squeeze. Thatcher leans over and kisses Shelly sweetly with tears in his eyes. "A little princess..." he says softly.

If I could smile I would be wearing the biggest grin, but unfortunately I am stuck in this state. "They think it will wear off because it's omni venenum. I've got to figure out a way to let someone know I'm trapped this way" I think to myself. I find it very difficult to get to sleep that night and my mind is filled with a million thoughts pulling me in all directions. I finally doze off into a dreamless sleep until suddenly my eyes fly open as a vision forms in my mind. Thistle is tramping through the forest making her way toward a dilapidated cottage. "I know this place, it's the edge of the kingdom" I think. She approaches the door and it creaks loudly as it swings open. I can hear Kristen and Ector talking as she draws nearer to them. "We will complete the mission my mother has failed to complete. With that nosey Queen out of the way, and their King on a far off mission, there's no one to stop us" Kristen says with a grin. 

"What about the faerie filth? Surely we can't keep her alive!" Ector mentions. "Well we certainly can't kill her, what if someone gets suspicious? Everything will be ruined!" Thistle interjects as she joins the other two. "Nonsense! Anything could happen on a solo journey to Stoneridge. What if she meets up with a troll? Or those wild lycans they're so terrified of?" Kristen retorts. Suddenly Ector gasps as Kristen's eyes begin to morph into their true blood red color. "What's happening?" he questions. Kristen whips round to check her reflection in the mirror and see's that as well as her eyes, her skin is changing also. Her fleshy pink skin is melting back into its true pale sickly hue as she returns to her vampire form. "Well we couldn't have asked for better timing at least! That disguise was keeping my urges for a fae feast under wraps. Now that the human disguise has worn off, I know just what to do with our delicious guest" she tells Ector and Thistle as she runs her tongue along her lips hungrily. Cirrus's eyes widen in complete horror and her muffled screams try to break through the tape across her mouth. "Poor little faerie, your compliance wasn't for nothing, well at least not for us" Kristen lets out a venomous laugh. Composing herself she smiles sweetly at Cirrus who is shaking her head forcefully, and trying with all her might to free herself. 

Kristen gently runs a pointed nail along Cirrus's forearm, and up to her neck where she makes a small puncture with her sharp nail. "Mmmm..." Kristen exhales in anticipation as she leans toward Cirrus and slides her tongue along her neck before pressing her yearning lips against Cirrus's skin. Taking Cirrus by the shoulders, Kristen earnestly begins sucking at her neck, moaning and squeezing her arms tightly. Suddenly she releases her, leaning back in a terrible fit of laughter. "It's incredible! I feel indestructable!" she cackles wildly. Ector smiles seeing her in such a state and Thistle watches from nearby. Kristen wipes her fingertips along the wound collecting a bit of blood, and eases over to Thistle. 

"You have to taste this" she seductively whispers pressing herself against Thistle and smearing the blood along her lips. Thistle closes her eyes as she glides her tongue along her now blooded lips and whispers, "I think I could grow to like that..." Kristen gives her a wide smile. "Ahhhh!" she cries out throwing her arms out to either side of her own body. "I need more...Mmm, it's empowering!" she continues in a blind rush. She lunges at Cirrus with her jagged nails at the ready and penetrates straight through her chest, tearing her heart from its cavity. The tape rips from Cirrus's lips as a dreadful cry of pain explodes from her mouth. Ector rushes to Cirrus and covers her mouth to muffle her, but in a brief moment the sound fades and she slumps over, as death takes hold of her. 

Kristen holds Cirrus's heart up towards the heavens, it still beating vigorously as blood from the heart trickles down her forearms. She brings it to her lips kissing it delicately, before sinking her fangs into it and draining it quickly. She tosses it to the side, then returns to Cirrus's corpse to finish the remaining bloody beverage.