Disillusion

How far can you see, as you look across the sea? Do your eyes meet the setting sun with love? 

Cast your gaze to the stars and the clouds in the sky, and surrender to the vastness above. 

Hope is always a moment a way, slipping through the clutches of your outstretched hand;

Life spent picking up the pieces of the dreams you'd once planned. 

The stratosphere turns as the world below goes along; 

Heart wrenching memories of a future to which you belong.

Dusk spills over the horizon and the moon illuminates your face;

Dizzy with what could have been instead of what is now in place.

Swallowed by the dark, strain your eyes to see;

But ne'er through the bleak will you finally be.

Around each mountain, and through every high tide;

Will your heart beat smoothly, or will your path abide.

Running through the sand under supernova skies;

Can you escape the brambles of circumstance and lies. 

The sun warms your skin and you're surrounded by a dream;

Of hope and love and life of light that truly makes you beam.

Stay in this bliss, but only for a moment, where serenity is all around;

Ripped away, torn from hope, back to where tears fall to the ground. 

No gentle breeze to carry your spirit, no warmth behind your gaze;

Only disillusion of the mask that guides this maze.

Anger and confusion scream out into eternity for what is now gone lost;

Who's to blame you'd never guess, for every choice has a cost.

How far can you see as you look in front of you? Do your eyes focus in the gloom?

Cast your gaze to something steadfast, and surrender to the hope instead of doom. 

Chapter 42

The day following Thatcher and Shelly's wedding is a day filled with lots of discussion and planning among the royal parties. Richard, Katherine, Thatcher, Shelly, Luke, Roonie, Cade and myself gather in the throne room for King Richard's important announcement. After learning that King Richard has been living with grave illness everyone is beside themselves. "Dearest daughter, I wanted your special day to be just that, a special day full of joy. I didn't want these matters of my health to worry you. Katherine and I have decided to crown Rohan and Isabelle rulers of Stone Ridge. I have coordinated a surprise coronation for them tomorrow to do just that" King Richard tells Shelly and the group of us. Shelly, torn with grief manages to reply, "Oh father this news is terrible! Won't you please return to Brendlewood with our group. I can't bare to leave you here, we've already been apart so long! Later, once we've figured out some plan of action against this evil we're facing, you, Katherine, Thatcher and I can travel to Blue Haven together and live out our days there." The King gives her a large grin, "Why of course my dear, that sounds like a wonderful plan, with Cade and Nora's blessing of course." "Oh, yes! We would love to have you for a visit!" I tell him after Cade gives a little nod. "Well then it's settled! The group of us will return to Brendlewood, get a plan of action together, and see you off to Blue Haven!" Cade smiles as he and King Richard exchange a handshake. "Well, I better go see what the others are up to...I will check in shortly" I mention to Cade, and he gently kisses my cheek. "Catch up with you soon lovely" he tells me with a wink. 

No sooner than I wonder where they could be, I hear the voices of Jax, Tulip and Clover coming from a nearby bedroom. Giving a gentle knock at the door, I enter the room. "Hey! I've been looking for you all! King Richard has some news- What's wrong? Is everything ok in here?" I ask after reading the expressions on their faces. "Quite the opposite actually!" Clover fumes. "I don't know why you're so upset with me, I haven't done anything!" Tulip huffs. Jax gives me a helpless look and runs his hand through his hair in frustration. "Perhaps I should come back later..." I suggest, but Jax shakes his head and asks me to stay. "I know you are the father of this baby and we are meant to be together! I don't want you speaking to Tulip, she's just trouble" Clover tells him folding her arms. Tulip raises her eyebrows in disbelief, "Oh I'm trouble, am I? I'm not the one down at the alehouse filling my time with the company of a different man each night!" Clover waves her hand seemingly un-phased, "It's not a different man each night." "Clover, I don't mean to pry but is there any possibility that you could have had another gentleman caller about the same time you and Jax were together?" I carefully ask her. She thinks for a moment before replying, "Well there was Marcus, but it couldn't be him. He said he wasn't able to have children." Jax frowns and crosses his arms, "That doesn't mean anything, there's always a chance." "Once the baby has arrived I can perform an enchantment that will tell us for sure. Then we'll know once and for all!" Tulip says. "Great idea! Clover, if this is my child I will be more than happy to be a part of the baby's life but it still doesn't mean we are together. I love Tulip, always have, always will" Jax says giving Tulip a smile. "Jax I...with all of this I just can't, you understand don't you?" she replies. "See! She doesn't even want you! I do! We will have a family soon, can't you see it's meant to be?" Clover snaps. "Nora..." Jax says giving me a look that begs for help. "Yes, Nora what do you think? Since none of us can figure this out calmly" Tulip says giving Clover a scowl. "I think until the father's identity has been proven, Clover you need to give Jax his space. I also think that until we know for sure, Jax you need to give Tulip her space. "But I-" Jax begins. I shake my head at him and he lowers his head before storming out of the room. "Fine!" Clover barks and exits as well. 

"Tulip...you alright?" I ask calmly. "I'm just so confused Nora. I have loved Jax since we were kids, but he's always been easily drawn away. Now, he might be a father, and I am so mixed up after all the drama with Alex. I finally trusted someone whole-heartedly and look how it ended up. It's strange because Alex seemed like such a great guy and he ended up hurting me. If he will, Jax will for sure!" she replies slightly panicked. "I know how you feel, but people can change you know. Jax claims to have 'woken up' so to speak. He's told me that he knows you are the only girl for him. Heck, he even saved you from those monstrous trolls!" I tell her somewhat cheerily. I can tell Tulip is deep in thought, for she only nods. I give her shoulder a pat, "Just think about it, only you know where your happiness lies." Tulips gives a half smile, "I'll be alright, thanks for the advice though." "Anything for a friend" I tell her kindly. Turning to the others I inform them of the news of Richard and the upcoming coronation, before taking off to talk things over with Bonnie and Arthur as well.

Later that afternoon, everyone gathers in the throne room for Rohan and Isabelle's coronation. The arch bishop then asks for everyone to be seated and begins the ceremony. "We're gathered here today to witness Rohan and Isabelle to be crowned King and Queen of Stone Ridge." The arch bishop announces. He then turns to Rohan, "Young man, this crown symbolizes the kingdom of Stone Ridge, loyalty, leadership, and royalty. Do you accept the responsibilities in which comes with the crown?" "I do your grace," Rohan replies. The arch bishop then turns to Isabelle, "My lady, you are a woman of honesty, kindness, love, caring, and put others needs before your own. With this crown comes responsibility. Will you put the kingdoms and it's villagers needs before your own? Will you agree to everything this crown symbolizes?" Isabelle smiles a sweet smile before replying, "Yes, your grace I do."  Richard then places the crowns atop Rohan and Isabelle's heads, "I am proud to announce my grandson and his wife Isabelle, King and Queen of Stone Ridge! May God bless them this day and every day after! All hail King Rohan and his Queen Isabelle! My fellow friends, there will be a feast following this blessed day, feel free to join me in the royal dining hall!" A small tear escapes Shelly's eye as everyone applauds, and congratulates Rohan and Isabelle. Rohan smiles widely and says, "Please join us in the formal dining hall for our celebration. Tomorrow we will have to bid ado to our friends from Brendlewood and beyond, as they make their way home. So let us celebrate this last eve together friends and family alike!" 

Upon entering the dining hall, King Rohan and his queen take a seat at the top table under a canopy, with all their family members, and the other royals to the left of them. Huge tables adorn fancy candles, and the servants bring out trays filled with peacock, lamb, wild bore, corn on the cob, peas, and cabbage. "I'm happy to have you all here for the last feast I will be attending here in Stone Ridge. I know in my heart that Rohan and Isabelle will be great rulers, and I have made the perfect choice. Now, let's eat for I am starving!" Richard announces. I over hear Shelly voicing concerns to her father as to where her brother Logan is. With a sigh Richard replies, "I was hoping he would be here by now. He went out hunting a couple of months ago, and no one has seen him since! I have had search parties out for him, and sent word to surrounding kingdoms asking if anyone has seen him, but no one knows of his whereabouts. Don't worry sweet heart, this isn't the first time he has done this. I'm sure he will turn up at some point." Shelly, however still wears a look of concern. 

That evening, as some of the guests retire to their chambers a vision emerges. Katherine's ladies help Shelly to her evening wear and she hears them whispering about the beautiful evening of dancing, and how they never learned how to dance. "Come on ladies, surely someone has taught you" Shelly adds. "Oh no majesty, our families were servants of the court, so they never really had the time" Lady Jane replies. Shelly offers to teach them if they would like, and they both agree. As they all start dancing the kingdom dance, Thatcher enters the room and grins. He immediately grabs Shelly by the waist and twirls her around the room, laying her onto the bed. Shelly dismisses the ladies, who curtsy and exit quickly. Thatcher and Shelly share a very long passionate kiss. before he gently unlaces the ribbon on Shelly's nightgown. She gives him a smile before blowing out the bedside candles, and the vision fades.

Meanwhile in the dining hall, we are all having a blast, chatting away about the evening and the journey back to Brendlewood. "We leave first thing in the morning" Cade announces. "Excuse me, King Cade, I only have one question. Would it be alright if Melina travels to your kingdom with us? We could really use the extra help taking turns with Richard being so ill" Katherine asks politely. "Oh, well we would love to have her back at the castle! Everyone misses having her around, and I think it would be good for Shelly too. She can also meet her little sister, Juliana. That's if the other's agree as well" Cade replies. The group nods excitedly and retreat to their rooms for the night. "We'll need to be well rested for tomorrow's journey home" I think to myself.

The following morning the group awakens to find that the maid have prepared their saddlebags for their trip back home. "Oh Rohan, I'm going to miss you so much! Please at least send word on how you're doing, or if you should need anything" Shelly tells him as a tear rolls down her cheek. Rohan agrees and hugs her tightly, and asks her to give his baby sister a hug and kiss. "Tell her that her big brother Rohan loves her bunches!" he smiles. Shelly nods and we all exit the castle. Mounting the horses I hear everyone speaking eagerly about returning home. "I can't wait to embrace my sweet little princess once we return to Brendlewood and take her to our rightful place in Blue Haven" Shelly says with a smile. Once everyone has mounted the horses we give a final wave goodbye and we take off down the road leading out of Stone Ridge.

Awhile later . . .

The cool morning breeze brushes along my skin and I wrap my arms tighter around Cade as our horse trots along happily through a grassy meadow. "There's a brook not to far from here!" Thatcher calls. "Right then, we'll press on a bit and have the horses stop there. We can stretch our legs and enjoy our lunch" Cade answers back. "Good! I'm starving!" a very pregnant Clover chimes in. "I hear something..." Roonie says quietly. "What dear, what is it?" Luke asks her. "I'm not sure, sounds like...like crying" she replies uncertainly. "Should we see what or who it is?" Shelly asks. "Over there, it's coming from over there!" Roonie calls out as she slides off the moving horse. Clumsily landing on the ground, she hops to her feet and takes off running towards the woods just up ahead. "ROONIE! Come back! What are you doing?" Tulip calls after her. "Yaw!" Cade hollers at the horse after telling me to hold on tight. Catching Roonie up we find her standing in the middle of the forest, perfectly still. "Shh, shh shh!" She tells us as she appears to be straining to hear whatever sound she thought she  heard. Katherine who is bringing up the rear by wagon suggests we stop awhile here. "Good idea. We can have a brief stop here and once we find the brook, we'll have lunch. Sound good?" Jax offers. Richard, who was napping in the wagon sits up quickly. "Oh grandfather, do be careful" Melina tells him. She climbs out of the wagon and helps him to his feet. 

"Darling, are you sure you heard something?" Luke asks Roonie inquisitively. "Yes I- there it is again...hang on" Roonie trails off as she begins looking behind tree's and bushes. "HERE! Oh my gosh! Are you ok?" she squeaks. We all rush over to see what all the fuss is about, and to our dismay we see a very weak, very dry mermaid. "Help" is all she manages to get out before Cade scoops her up and lays her in the bed of the wagon. Thatcher helps Melina get Richard loaded back up and tells Cade if they hurry they might be able to save her. "Follow me quickly!" Thatcher shouts as the groups horses dash off to follow him. 

As we near the stream Luke lifts the mermaid out of the wagon and into the brook as the rest of the men tie up the horses securely. Everyone else spreads out large blankets and starts setting out food for our lunch. Once everyone is settled comfortably on the banks of the brook we begin asking the mermaid questions. "Are you hurt?" Roonie asks concerned. "What are you doing so far from water?" Tulip chimes in. "What's your name?" I ask.  "Quiet everyone, let the poor girl speak" Cade instructs kindly. The mermaid takes a big gulp of water before speaking and then replies, "I am not hurt badly. Only a few places where my flesh has split due to being so dry, but I'll manage. A few days ago Castlerock was brutally attacked. I am not even sure what happened, or who caused it. I have never seen her before..." We listen intently as the mermaid describes the leader of the attack and I inform them that it is none other than the evil Kristen Lioncourt and her goons! "The one that killed our dear Cirrus!?" Roonie almost chokes. "Yes Roon, one in the same..." I answer before encouraging the mermaid to continue. "I was fortunate to escape with my Pulmonis Crus potion in save keeping. It's a lung and leg potion to allow you to temporarily grow legs and lungs, that's how I made it this far. I didn't know the potion would wear off so soon though, and I got stranded on my search for help" she tells us. 

Everyone remarks on the horror of the situation and continues asking her countless questions. "This nonsense has got to stop! We need to find this Kristen woman and take her down!" Bonnie snarls. The others agree fervently before Tulip interrupts them, "Wait! You haven't even told us your name. Won't you tell us please?" "Well it's Nerissa, Nerissa Riptide. But my name won't do you any good, I'm a nobody. My father is a fourth generation shell shiner. I just had to get out of there though. So many merfolk are angry with the humans of Blue Haven. They feel that the humans forced them out of their own land and many people have considered joining the Shadow League, and I think we all know who runs that operation..." she trails off. "Carolin Lioncourt!" we all say with gritted teeth. "The Shadow League offers protection to us and acts as an ally to take back Blue Haven. But, there are those of us who disagree with all of this, and wish to remain peaceful with the humans living together in harmony" Nerissa tells us. 

Over the next hour we talk of loyalties and recent happenings, while Tulip tries to create another Pulmonis Crus potion for Nerissa. The group decides that she can travel back to Brendlewood with them and once they have arrived Cade can get a formal plan together for resolutions to the many problems they face. "Don't worry friends, I know we can put a stop to these evils!" he tells them boldly. As the men begin to pack up camp, Roonie tends to the Nerissa's wounds, and in no time Tulip is able to drudge up the potion. Nerissa graciously thanks her, before she consumes the potion. Slightly choking on the oxygen in her lungs, she coughs, and sprouts a pair of human legs. "Here ya go, I've got an extra" Bonnie says tossing her a skirt. Nerissa smiles and thanks her as she slides into it. Once everyone and everything is packed again the group returns to their trek back to Brendlewood's welcoming arms. 

Two days later the group finally makes it through the castle gates of Brendlewood. They dismount their horses, and lead them into the barn where they can rest in the stalls. "I can't wait to hold my little girl in my arms" Shelly say as she rushes towards the castle doors. Suddenly Thatcher grabs hold of her arm, "No! Something isn't right!" He then looks over at Cade and draws out his sword from it's sheath, "Where are all the guards?" Cade nods and pulls his sword out as well, and instructs me and the women to remain in the barn. "No, my little girl is in there! I wanna come with you!" Shelly shouts. Cade shakes his head no, and tells me to let them check things out first. Richard looks over at her, "He's right Shelly, it's too dangerous for you to go in there!" Tulip hugs her tight as the men head inside to scope out the castle. "What if everyone was taken by trolls to do their bidding?" Roonie shrieks in fear. "Not to mention those mischievous goblins who steal babies!" Clover adds. Bonnie furrows her brow, "Oh for goodness sake, SHUT UP Clover!" Shelly shudders and cries out, "Trolls! Goblins!? Oh, Nora they have my baby!" Katherine calmly rubs Shelly's back as I try to calm everyone, "Calm down everyone! Let's not lose our wits about this! We're no help to anyone in that state. I'm sure the guys are checking everything out thoroughly, and then we can join up with them and get this all figured out.

Just after I tell them this however, I am struck with a vision. Inside the castle, Cade, and Thatcher lead Luke, Jax and Arthur in every room of the first floor in hopes to find any signs of life. Bodies of the missing guards lay about in different rooms. Every room on the first floor has been ransacked as if someone had put up a good fight. As they near the stairway, Thatcher hovers around the corner until he see's that the coast is clear, and waves his friends onward to make way upstairs. Once they reach the second floor, Thatcher holds his pointer finger to his mouth to signal the group to not make a single sound. Suddenly a large thud sounds from one of the distant rooms. "Did you hear that?" Cade whispers to the group of them. They all nod in agreement and follow the sound to Shelly's chambers. "Locked" Cade whispers, after trying the door knob. Thatcher then tells the group to stand aside. "On the count of three" Thatcher whispers to Cade. "Ready?" he asks. Cade gives him a nod, and as Thatcher reaches three, they kick the door in.

As they enter the room, they find the maids bonded together with rope, the furniture sprawled about, and Juliana's crib on its side. Cade, Luke, Jax and Arthur hurriedly untie the maids as Thatcher rushes over to the tiny crib. He throws the mattress and blankets away from it, in hopes to find his little girl, but has no luck. Luke removes the duct tape from one of the maids mouths, and asks, "What happened here? Who did this to you?" In a sad but fearful tone the maid tries to find her words, "I'm so sorry majesty, there were too many! We couldn't fight them all off! They killed the guards and then took us all hostage. Midi and the rest of us tried to protect the princess the best we could, but we were not strong enough to hold them off." Thatcher then falls to his knee's as warm tears spill out of his eyes, "They took her! They took Juliana! How can I possibly tell Shelly that our daughter is gone? I should have stayed and protected her! I could have killed them all!" Arthur helps Thatcher to his feet before replying, "You have to get a hold of yourself man! My mother needs you, and besides if you had stayed, you would have been killed as well!" "You don't know that! I could have taken them!" Thatcher protests in disbelief.

  
Midi approaches Thatcher apologetically, "Majesty, we all tried our best to see to the safety of the tiny princess, but there is something else you should know. I did overhear Kristen saying she was taking Juliana to her mother. Something about she now has what we want, and maybe now she will get what she wants.  It didn't really make any sense to me, but perhaps you would know what she was talking about." Thatcher furrows his brow, "I really don't care what they want! They have messed with the wrong family!" He then storms out of the room and makes his way back to the barn. With tear filled eyes, Midi says, "We tried majesty, we tried our best to hold them off...." Cade sighs and places a hand gently on her shoulder, "I know you did and so does Thatcher. His emotions are getting the best of him right now, and although I can't blame him, he needs to get his head on straight!."

Down in the barn, Thatcher readies his horse as Shelly approaches him. "Where are you going, and where's Juliana?" Shelly asks in a worried tone. "Maybe you should ask your so called friends who were supposed to care for her while we were away! Instead of sitting here and doing absolutely nothing, I'm leaving to find her, and bring her back to us!" Thatcher rants at Shelly. "Please don't go, I need you here with me! I can't do this all alone, and besides you are the King of Blue Haven, you're just another target for them out there without any guards!" Shelly sobs hysterically. Katherine approaches Thatcher's horse, "I know you really don't know me all that well, but it's too dangerous for a king to be out there all by himself! You know Carolin and Kristen are out there somewhere, and are just waiting for the right moment to get you alone, and take over Blue Haven!" Thatcher smiles slightly and says, "Miss I'm happy to know you're looking out for my safety, but this is my daughter we're talking about, and I'm going to kill every one of those ignorant fools who took her!" "What if you get taken prisoner by some blood fiends or something? You won't do your daughter any good dead!" Roonie says fearfully. 

Nora approaches Thatcher and gently and methodically says, "You know you're like a brother to me, and we have always been such close friends. Don't you think it would be wise to  wait for Cade and the other men to go with you? You know of all the dangers out there, and you know what Katherine says is right. Why don't you just wait and see what Cade has to say about this matter, and if you don't like his plan, you are free to be on your way to where ever it is you're going." Thatcher sighs and says, "Nora my dear friend, you are right. I shall wait and see what Cade has to say. I'm sorry I was so....angry, but I have had enough of Carolin and her family to last me a lifetime, and now they have Juliana!" Just then Cade enters the barn and says, "Thatcher, we all understand where you are coming from, for we have all had our fair share of Carolin's family and the lycans. We all want nothing more than to defeat this evil and send them all packing. Mark my words, we will get Juliana back, even if it means this war happens a little sooner than we anticipated!" "Will you kindly join me in the throne room? We have much to discuss on this event." Cade asks the Thatcher, who more than happily agrees. Cade then tells the others that the castle is clear and that they are all free to head inside if they wish to do so. The group thanks Cade and exit the barn to go back into the castle to start cleaning up.

Upon entering the throne room, Thatcher finds Cade and Nora sitting on their thrones discussing what to do next. Cade then asks him to take a seat and begins discussing the situation that they are now in. "Thatcher my friend, I understand the predicament you are in. I know it's not easy to sit here and discuss what to do, but the forest is not a very safe place for a King like yourself to be traveling in without guards. What I'm suggesting to you is this, how about you and I work together and lead a team of guards to find this Kristen woman? We know she has killed Cirrus, and has caused other problems as well. There's not a doubt in my mind that she is behind the kidnapping of the Princess Juliana! Perhaps if we capture her, we can then bargain with Carolin and Parfon." Thatcher sighs before replying, "Cade my brother, there's nothing I want more than the safe return of my daughter, and I will not rest until she is found! I agree to your proposal."

Chapter 41

Riding through the forest with only a day left before Thatcher and Shelly's wedding, my vision follows Shelly as the seamstress makes the final touches on her gown. "There now Majesty, just hold still as I place the last bit of satin on your gown," the seamstress tells Shelly. "Thatcher's gonna have to pick his jaw up from the ground once he see's her, I think to myself. "It's very beautiful! Thank you so much for making it for me," Shelly tells her. The seamstress smiles as she finishes Shelly's gown, and Queen Katherine enters the room, "You look amazing and will be the finest Queen Blue Haven has ever laid eyes on!" Shelly blushes as she gazes in the mirror, and a frown forms upon her face.

Katherine tells the seamstress to leave them before saying, "Why Shelly whatever is the matter dear?" "I know I should be feeling nothing but happiness and excitement, but I can't help but to feel guilty at the same time. Why didn't Lestat just come home sooner? Why wait until now to try and win me back? UGH! I'm letting him get to me once more. The last time I thought he was dead, and that I would be alone for the rest of my life, but then Melina found him in the forest. I made myself believe he would never return when he left me in Brendlewood, and just when I think I can move on with my life and love another, there he is again, reminding me of what I will always feel for him. Am I crazy for feeling this way?" she asks Katherine. 

Katherine smiles and says, "Oh sweetheart, you're not crazy for feeling like this. You have loved Lestat for a very long time, and you can't just stop loving someone even though that person stops loving you. Sometimes you don't know what you have until it's gone, and in Lestat's case, he's just a little too late. You and Thatcher belong together and love one another. I can see it every time you look at each other. You have a light in your eyes that one only has when they're in love. I know Thatcher loves you with all his heart, the question is, do you feel the same about him?" Shelly smiles at the thought of Thatcher standing in front of the alter as she makes her way down the aisle, "Who am I kidding, I love him with all of my heart and soul! I would be a fool not to marry him, and I'm lucky to have him in my life."

"There now, you see the two of you were meant to be together! I have one last wedding gift for you," she says as she holds up a pink vial. "What is it?" Shelly asks with curiosity. Katherine smiles and says, "Your father told me of the curse a dark wizard placed upon you as a baby. This, is the anti curse potion that will permanently block that awful wizard from taking the light from you. This particular potion is also strong enough to ward off dark magic of the lycan race." Shelly looks quite excited at first, but concern spreads across her face before she calmly says, "There's one last problem... Lestat's great, great, grandmother Charlotte put a disguise on me many years ago to hide me from the lycans. The potion has been wearing off for quite some time now, and the charms have been wearing off as they have been able to see right through it. Do you think you can  possibly remove this disguise?" Katherine smiles before replying,"Ah my dear, that is no problem at all! I can add a few more ingredients to remove your disguise. I'll have it ready in no time at all!" she explains. She then exits the room, and returns moments later with a blue vial. "Here it is my dear, and it's not much different than the other potion." she explains. I give a nod accepting the vial hesitantly, "I-I don't know what to say...what are the side effects from taking this?" "If you're asking me if it will cause you any pain, the answer is no. You will not feel any pain nor is there any side effects to this potion. There's nothing to fear my dear, and you won't have to worry about that dreadful wizard," she explains.

Shelly then tips the vial to her lips pouring the contents into her mouth. Surprisingly it doesn't have a horrid taste, but instead it has a pleasant taste... like wild berries. Five minutes passes after drinking the potion and Shelly doesn't feel any different. "Shouldn't I be feeling something when it takes effect?" she asks the Stone Ridge Queen. But, before Katherine can speak Shelly's body glows a radiant pink and tiny little dew drops cover her as they sparkle and change colors from green, white, pink, then blue. Suddenly a burst of light fills the room, and she feels the potion working it's magic as she and Katherine are thrown to different sides of the room. "Shelly is that you?" Katherine calls out. "Yes I'm here, I just need to focus my eyes again" Shelly tells her. 

Once their eyes have focused and they are able to see clearly, Katherine claps her hands over her mouth in excitement. "Oh Shelly look" she says as she points to the mirror. As Shelly gazes into the mirror, looking upon her familiar reflection. "There you are, it's been a long time since I've looked upon this face. How glad I am to be my true form once more" Shelly says to herself. Turning to Katherine she happily tells her, "I would rather be walking down the aisle as myself, than to be wearing a disguise. I no longer have any use for it as it didn't keep the lycans from recognizing me anyway" Shelly explains. Katherine sighs in relief before replying, "I'm sure Thatcher will be pleased with you no matter how you look. Either way you look breath taking, and besides he fell in love with you, not your disguise." Shelly gives a slight smile as Katherine helps her out of her wedding gown, and back into her skirts. She then tells her that she should find the others and inform them of the potion. For it may come as quite a shock if she just shows up without her disguise.

Later that night......

A gentle knock on the door to Shelly's chambers startles her as she sits by the fireplace, "Come in" she calls out. Thatcher enters the room and says as he gasps, "Shelly darl...you look more radiant than normal, is everything alright?" Shelly briefly explains to him that she had a disguise put on her many years ago to hide her identity from the lycans, but somehow they were able to see right through it. "My love, Katherine gave me a potion that is strong enough to protect me from the lycans, and remove the curse an evil wizard had put on me long ago when I was just a baby. I then agreed that I wouldn't need the disguise any longer. I do hope you aren't displeased with my normal appearance" she tells him uncertainly. Thatcher grins and hugs her tightly, "Oh my love, all I want is for you to be safe! Your looks have and never will displease me! I fell in love with who you are, not your looks, although you look amazing! Darling, I have missed you! Your parents haven't allowed me to see you at all today." 

Shelly smiles and whispers, "What are you doing here? Of course they wouldn't allow you to see me, it's the night before our wedding, and it's bad luck to see your bride the night before you're married" she tells him. Thatcher laughs before replying, "Oh Shelly, that's just an old wives tale! Haven't you missed me at all?" She lets out a giggle and replies, "Of course I have missed you, but do you know what my father will do to you if he catches you in here?" He then kisses her passionately and she has to stop him before he gets too carried away. "You're such a tease! Just think, tomorrow we will be married" Thatcher tells her as he grins widely. Shelly gives him a smile before replying, "I can hardly wait! I have waited for this day for so long, and I'm so happy my family is all here to celebrate it with us." With a bit of a wink Thatcher says, "I better let you get a good nights rest, you're gonna need it for tomorrow night!" He then kisses her tenderly, but suddenly pulls away. "Something for you to fill your dreams my darling" he quietly says in her ear. "UGH! Tease!" Shelly tells him jokingly as he exits the room and the vision fades.

After alot of thought I decided to go ahead and tell Tulip and Alex about Cirrus's fate before we travel to Stone Ridge. This however proved to be a catastrophe. After learning that a woman named Kristen, Sheila; formerly known as Thistle, and his twin brother Ector killed Cirrus, Alex is sent into a blind rage. Even after calming down some Alex chose to defend his brother's actions thereby, turning his back on Brendlewood, his friend's, and worst of all, Tulip. With Alex's return to Blue Haven, a heart-broken Tulip and I have been speeding toward Stone Ridge to inform the other's. Though the visions have slowed us down somewhat, Tulip and I have been able to make good time getting to the kingdom of Stone Ridge and we finally arrive at day break. A guard greets us at the gate and we are immediately shown the way to the throne room.  

After a brief explanation to the King of our visit, he summons our friends to join us. A group of sleepy guests enter the throne room, but as soon as they realize who stands before them, they rub their eyes and shout with excitement! Cade's eyes grow wide with overjoy and he runs to me, scooping me into his arms, and kissing me firmly. Tears fill his eyes as he cups my face in both his hands. "My darling Nora, I was afraid I would lose you. God bless Tulip!" With that he tackles Tulip into a tight hug, "Thank you, Thank you so much my dear friend. Honor shall be brought to you upon our return home!" Tulip chokes out that Cade is squeezing her to death as he apologizes, releasing her. Everyone begins asking a million questions all at once. "Ok, Ok everyone listen. I know everyone has alot of questions, so if we can all calm down a bit, Tulip and I will explain everything" I tell them with a bit of a laugh. 

King Richard snaps his fingers and the guards bring in a few chairs for everyone. Once everyone is settled, I explain about Cirrus's horrible death and the potion of silence I was forced to drink. The murderous group, Kristen, Sheila, and Ector's terrible acts sends the group to anger and tears. Tulip tells them about finally being able to create an antidote to pull me from my petrified state, and about Alex's betrayal. The group bursts into cries of outrage, sadness and fear as I try to calm them. "I can't believe that evil wretch Kristen was in on this as well! Lestat came to see me and tried to force me back with him, obviously to no avail but I wonder if I will ever be safe, I wonder if anyone will!" Shelly exclaims as King Richard and Katherine comfort her. Thatcher clenches his fists shouting about his disbelief at his own family's betrayal. "I am ashamed to say that Alex and Ector are even relation! I always knew Ector was a bit of a bad egg, but I never thought Alex would turn his back on us, and on poor Tulip. I'm so sorry everyone, please know my loyalties remain with you and I will stand beside you in the counteraction of this tragic situation!" he growls through gritted teeth. Cade thanks him and furrows his brow with rage at the news of these horrific events, clearly thinking of a plan of action. 

Roonie shudders in fear before her tiny voice peeps over the others, "Our dear Cirrus! What will become of us!?" Luke holds her tightly, "There now darling we'll think of something" he soothes. Jax, who normally spouts off at the mouth, can only sit in silence as he stares at Tulip. Rising he goes to her and slowly extends his arms offering a comforting embrace. "Oh, Jax! How could I have been so blind about Alex? Our dearest Cirrus is gone, and I'm terrified for our safety" she blubbers. Jax wipes her tears away gently, and holds her close, "Don't blame yourself sweetheart. How could you have known, how could any of us have known." Arthur wrings his hands nervously and Bonnie blurts out in fury a few choice phrases not to be taken lightly. 

"Everyone please calm down and listen!" Cade's voice bellows. The room grows quiet and everyone turns their attention to him. "I know these matters are of grim concern, but for the time being we need to remember there is joy found in this day. Our Queen has been resolved of her condition and has returned to us. Let us also remember that today is a celebration of marriage between our good friends Thatcher and Shelly. Friends, put away these feelings of anger and sadness as we find joy in other matters far stronger than those of evil. Matters of the heart, the strongest weapon there ever was; love. After such joyous times we shall travel back to the kingdom of Brendlewood and make right these preposterous wrongdoings!" he announces. Everyone heartily agrees and gets to work straight away on making today that of joy, love and happiness. 

That evening the setting sun turns the sky to a brilliant dark blue, and the bright silver stars fill the heavens; the night of the wedding has finally arrived. The maids scurry about the castle grounds placing flowers and making the final touches for the wedding to take place. Roonie, Bonnie, Nora, and Tulip all join Shelly in her chambers as she prepares to walk down the aisle. "You look astonishing!" Roonie says and the girls agree with excitement. We haven't had much time to prepare anything for you, if only we knew a wedding would take place before we left Brendlewood, but we each managed to get you a present from the village merchant" Bonnie exclaims in excitement. "Something old" Nora says as she hands Shelly a hairpin of a sparkling peacock. Roonie smiles wide as she hands Shelly a pair of radiant silver earrings, "Something new." Next in line is Bonnie who hands her a dainty handmade bracelet, "Something borrowed." Last to go is Tulip who gives a blue garment, "Something blue," she tells Shelly as she places the blue garment around the bride's thigh. Shelly thanks them all for being here with her to celebrate her wedding. "You girls are the best and I would be lost without you! I can't believe I'm finally getting married!" she squeals in excitement. They all exchange hugs, and Lady Mary swoops around applying the finishing touches on our make-up and hair. "I beg your majesty's pardon, but Sir Thatcher will be waiting. We must go to the royal garden now" Lady Mary says. We thank her kindly, and proceed out to the garden.

Beautiful flowers and columns with blue and gold garments wrapped around them line the flower path that leads to a wooden arch. Atop the columns sit golden vases that are exploding with the bluest flowers ever seen. Bonnie whispers as they wait for the ceremony to begin, "Oh Shelly it's breath taking!"  The guests wait patiently in their seats as the violin begins to sing its peaceful tune. Thatcher stands at the archway in a fine blue colored suit, as he awaits his bride. Arthur, Luke, and Jax stand waiting to accompany the girls down the aisle. Arthur takes Bonnie's arm and they make their way down the pathway of flowers. Next Luke links arms with Roonie, and they proceed down the aisle, and catching the rear is Jax and Clover. 

A horn blares "Here Comes the Bride" as King Richard and Shelly appear at the end of the flower path. The guests gasp and murmur quietly at Shelly's beauty as she and her father make their way towards Thatcher. "Oh Daddy I never thought this day would arrive, and it brings me joy to have you give me away. I only wish Cirrus was here to share it with me" she whispers. "I know she's not here physically, but you know she is indeed here in spirit. Probably keeping your mother company, you know she wouldn't miss this day for the world" he whispers back. She and the King stop at the last row of seats as they await the royal officiate to speak. A small elderly man stands underneath the arch holding a book in front of him. "Who gives this woman to this man?" Friar John asks in a raspy voice. "Her father does!" Richard replies. The King then leads her to Thatcher and places her hand in his and kisses her cheek, "I present my only daughter Shelly to you, I give you my blessing on this special day." "Just don't mess it up son!" Richard whispers to Thatcher, then winks at him, before taking a seat next to Katherine. Shelly then takes her place opposite Thatcher and the ceremony begins.

Thatcher gently takes her hands into his, as the royal court addresses the congregation. Everything turns into a blur as the Friar begins to speak, "We have come here together, before God and these witnesses to join in Holy matrimony Thatcher Mason Prince of Blue Haven, and the Princess Shelly Lioncourt. If there be any among you who may imagine some impediment as to why they should not be married, let them now speak or forever hold their tongue." Thatcher smiles broadly as the court remains quiet, and they exchange their rings and vows. Friar John announces, "I now pronounce you husband and wife, you may kiss your bride." Thatcher beams as he dips her before planting a passionate kiss on her lips, "I thought this moment would never come! What took you so long friar?" The crowd goes wild with excitement, joy, laughter, and some even in tears. 

Friar John asks the guests to be seated one last time, and the court grows quiet once more as King Richard's best men gather the crowns for Thatcher and Shelly. "Please let us pray. Heavenly father, we come to you today as Prince Thatcher and Princess Shelly are joined together as husband and wife. We pray in your name as we crown Prince Thatcher and Princess Shelly, King and Queen of Blue Haven to give them the wisdom and the strength as they are united as one. We pray for the kingdom and it's safety as we join Stone Ridge and Blue Haven as an alliance. In the Heavenly Father's name we pray, Amen!" The Arch bishop then places Thatchers crown on his head, and gives him his blessing. Thatcher then presents Shelly's crown to her; a dazzling silver crown with blue diamonds, symbolizing Blue Haven. Once the crowns have been placed on their heads the Arch Bishop instructs for them to rise. 

Rising and turning to face the crowd, Thatcher takes Shelly's hand into his proudly. "I now present to you, the new King and Queen of Blue Haven!" The guests all bow in respect as Shelly goes into panic mode and whispers to Thatcher, "I-I can't breath! Queen of Blue Haven? I'm not sure I can do this!" But, Thatcher smiles and calmly soothes, "You will do just fine my love, for you are a woman of love, fairness, and kindness. There is no need to be nervous darling." Shelly smiles at him and gives a little nod, as the trumpets blare the royal fanfare of Blue Haven. Linking arms, they make their way down the aisle as King and Queen. Upon reaching the end of the aisle, Thatcher turns to their guests, and announces the refreshments, and the cutting of the cake will begin shortly, and to meet in the royal dining hall.  

As all the guests head into the royal dining hall, Thatcher and Shelly head to the grand hall for pictures to be taken. "Now get a little closer together and give us a smile," the photographer says. Thatcher then winks at Shelly as he starts being his goofy self to tease the photographer, which backfires tremendously as the photographer himself begins to laugh. Shelly can't help but to giggle as Thatcher makes silly faces at her, tickles her, and kisses her nose. Thatcher clears his throat and suggests they start to be serious so they may attend to their guests. She gives him a nod, and put her arms around him for the photographer to take pictures. Once the photographer is finished, they head into the royal dining hall excitedly.

Upon entering the dining hall, the guests cheer and Thatcher waves his arms to signal the court to quiet down. As the room grows quiet Thatcher says, "Thank you. Thank you all for coming on this joyful day to celebrate our wedding. I'm thankful to have such good friends by my side, whom have introduced me to my gorgeous Queen."  Thatcher then turns to her and says, "Shelly, I love you. Tis you who have brought light into my world of darkness. I would be lost if I didn't have you, because you are everything that is good and pure." Tears fill her eyes as he kisses her, rising back up to catch her breath she manages to whisper, "I love you too." 

Everyone surrounds Thatcher and Shelly as he announces that they will be cutting the cake. A three tiered blue and white colored cake sits in the middle of the small table. Blue roses are scattered along the bottom of each tier, and it almost seems to sparkle with edible silver glitter, atop the tier is an elegant model of a husband and wife. She smiles at Thatcher as he kisses her cheek and her eyes sparke with joy. He places his hand on top of hers, as they take the knife together, slicing the cake in one smooth motion. Each of them take a small piece of the cake, and they link arms pausing for a moment for the photographer to capture a picture of the moment.

Shelly smiles widely and giggle, "Are you sure you're ready for this?" Thatcher chuckles, "Oh my darling, I have been ready for months now!" They each pick up the small piece of cake from their plates, and hold them up towards each other steadily. Thatcher grins as if he's up to no good, and.... SPLAT! Thatcher's cake squishes right into Shelly's face, and frosting goes right up her nose. She lets out a giggle and tells him he's gonna get it! She takes her piece of cake and aim right for his face, but he's ready for it, and ducks as it lands right atop her father's head. She lets out a gasp in fear that he might get angry, but instead a smile forms upon his face, and he laughs heartily and wipes his face. He then takes a seat as one of the maids cleans up the mess. 

Thatcher clears his throat before saying, "Well then lets take this party to the ballroom shall we?" Everyone nods in agreement, and follows Thatcher and Shelly to the ballroom where the violinist strikes up a soothing tune. King Richard takes Shelly's hand, and leads her to the middle of the dance floor, and they dance their father daughter dance. "Thank you for giving him a chance," Shelly tells her father. Richard smiles and says, "I only want you to be happy and for you to remain safe." Once their dance is finished, Thatcher bows, "May I have this dance my darling?" Shelly smiles and replies, "Of course my love!" The violinist begins a slow tune and Thatcher leads her to the middle of the dance floor once more. The guests are awestruck as Thatcher dips her, and twirls her around the floor. "Is this the wedding you have always dreamed of darling?" Thatcher asks. She smiles and holds him tightly before replying, "Oh my love it is even better than my dreams, for I now have you as my husband!" As their tune ends, Thatcher and Shelly thank her father and Katherine for everything.

As the party kicks off there is much merriment to be had, and concerns of the evilness amid them seems far away. After the bride and groom have shared their first dance together, Shelly's son Rohan and his wife surprise everyone with a wonderful announcement. Rohan smiles with excitement, "Are you sure darling?" he asks Isabelle. She gives him a nod and Rohan kisses her cheek sweetly. He then takes his wine glass, as he taps it gently with his spoon, and the room grows quiet. "I have an announcement to make! I was just given some wonderful news, Isabelle is with child! There's going to be a little prince or princess running around Stone Ridge in just a few months!" Shelly squeals with delight, "Oh my gosh! My son that is wonderful news! Congrats to you both!" Happy murmurs spread throughout the crowd and everyone takes to the dance floor as the band plays an upbeat jam.