Chapter 47

Before Luke's miraculous recovery, and the return of my dear husband, I had gone to pay Parfon a little very in the dungeon. As I rounded the cold eerie halls below the castle, I came face to face with Madame Parfon, who was strapped to a chair behind the bars of her cell. She spoke slyly, and grinned evilly at the sight of Arthur and I, "Do you really think keeping me here is really going to get me to talk?" Arthur smiled before replying, "Oh, but you don't really have to say much. Your boy toy Phillip has already told us so much about you. All we relaly need to know is-" But, Parfon quickly interrupted him, "You're lying! He would never tell you fools anything! Phillip has always been nothing but loyal, even if he is a complete idiot at times!" Arthur smirked, as he placed his hands on the arms of her chair, and leaned down to her face. With an assertive tone he began to speak again, "He's such an idiot that he told us how to strip you of your magic. He was the one who also told us that you were stealing lycans, building your own kingdom. Where to find you, and here's the kicker... Ready for the drum roll? We also know that Carolin is your cousin, and that the two of you can't stand each other. Of course he told us all of those things with a little persuading. He doesn't sound like much of an idiot to me. I mean, after all, he did chose his life before yours. So, here's the deal Madame, if you don't want to be fed to the wolves of whom you think you control, then I suggest that you cooperate with us and tell us all you know."

Parfon sat mouth agape, surely pondering on what to say next. She scoffed at what she had just heard and smiled ever so sweetly. Arthur and I exchanged confused looks, but Parfon began to speak, "You honestly fell for that nonsense? Phillip is an idiot, however he is trained well. But, I suppose your simple little minds never thought that perhaps he was feeding you a pot of lies to steer you away from what's really going on. Maybe I wanted to infiltrate Brendlewood castle, and what better way than to be led willingly through the front door." She then threw her head back and gave a great laugh.

"Don't be daft Parfon! Be that as it may, you are being held prisoner here. You know we have ways to make you talk? In face, if you don't want to talk to us, maybe you would rather speak with your cousin Carolin!" Arthur told her bluntly as he folded his arms. With that Parfon spat in his face, "You wouldn't dare!" Arthur wiped his face and gave a look of disgust. Quickly responding I spoke up, "Try us! Or, you could always tell us what we want to know. If you, do I promise you that you will be released from this cell, and be out in the world once again." Arthur raised his eyebrows in panic, and leaned in whispering, "Nora! You can't be serious! You know what will happen if we let her run free!? She'll have her wolf pack demolish Brendlwood, and kill everyone in it, or turn them." I gave him a wink and he calmed down a bit. I smiled as kindly as I could, "Now my friend, a promise is a promise Arthur! Madame Parfon, I give you my word that if you tell us what you know, you will be released. "FINE! I will tell you..." she said with a heavy sigh before continuing "Most people put two cups of sugar in their pecan pie, but the secret is three cups of sugar and a pinch of nutmeg!" Again Arthur and I shared deeply confused looks with each other. "What!? No, not that you moron! The other thing we want to know!" Arthur barked at her. Parfon blinked in confusion, then bursted into a giggling fit. "She really is as mad as they say!" I thought to myself. "I better check on things back upstairs. Are you going to be alright with her by yourself?" I asked Arthur quietly. "Don't worry, I'll be fine. I'll get her talking...don't you worry" he replied. 

  

 After I had return upstairs, get everything with Luke was settled, and I receive word of Cade, I rush to the foyer. Racing to my husband, I fling myself around him tightly. "Oh my darling! I was so afraid that you wouldn't return. I have missed you so much!" I tell him. Cade closes his eyes and winces a bit as he hugs me firmly. The sounds of shuffling feet tell us that the others have joined us, and Shelly calls out for Thatcher. "W-Where's Thatcher... Where is he Cade!?" she asks with fear in her voice. I release Cade from our embrace and worriedly ask "What happened hun? Please tell me that he's just tending to the horses." Cade sighs before replying "While I'm glad to finally return home to you all, I have returned with some grave news. Shelly, I'm sorry to inform you that Thatcher and I were attacked by a pack of lycans. We were able to take most of them down, but they had killed all of the guards who had accompanied us and have captured him. 

 A moment of silence spreads across the room, as the group hesitantly glances at one another and then turn our attention towards Shelly. Silent tears stream down her cheeks as I carefully ask her, "Shel... are you alright?" Wiping the tears from her eyes she snaps, "No Nora! I'm not alright! I have tried so hard to be strong by keeping busy and helping others. I-I just can't take anymore heartache! I have been captured by the lycans before, and let's just say, they don't play nice. They beat me, they tortured me, and took advantage of me numerous times. They even went as far as turning Lestat right in front of me! So you see, if they have Thatcher, they're going to torture him, or turn him! If Carolin has, goodness knows what she'll do to him More so if she received word that I am his queen." As we stand there quietly processing this information, I break the silence, "Oh Shelly, I had no idea everything you went through before you escaped from that awful place. My poor sweet friend, I know this has to be deja-vu for you. Why don't you come to the kitchen with me, and I'll have Cookie make you some of her famous herbal tea?" The group tries to comfort Shelly as well, but she gives a nod and agrees to have some tea. We both know tea won't make her feel any better this time, as things from her past are surely coming back to haunt her. I gently put my arm around her, and guide her to the kitchen. I glance back at the group who are looking downcast indeed. I know they must be feeling powerless to help Shelly, and they stand uncertain of what to do. I mouth to them, "I'll take care of her" and they acknowledge accordingly. 

In the kitchen, Shelly and I find Cookie, already whipping up the next meal. "Majesties, welcome! I heard that the King has returned. Is there anything I can get for you?" she asks cheerily. I thank her and tell her that we would both like a delicious tea. "Two tea's coming right up. I just made it fresh dearies" she mentions as she hands us the tea. "Thanks Cookie, that will be all for now" I tell her. "Yes your highness" she replies, and turns her attention back to the meal she had been preparing. "Why didn't you tell us what happened when you were the lycan's prisoner?" I ask Shelly curiously. Taking a sip of her tea, she replies, "Well, I guess it's because I didn't want to burden anyone with all of that horrible stuff. I came here to seek help and to get my life back. I mean I did tell Jax what happened the night Lestat left Brendlewood. That's when things sort of happened between us if you remember." I raise my brow searching my memory for this information. Shelly continues, "You know... the stuff with Jax that happened. You and Cade addressed me about it and Tulip overheard..." I gasp suddenly, "Oh! Ohhhh.... yeah, um that stuff." I had completely forgotten about that. I clear my throat, and take another sip of tea, avoiding eye contact with Shelly. 

A few moments of awkward silence spreads between us, as Cade enters the kitchen. "Shelly I'm so sorry about everything that has happened to you, and I know this is a hard time for everyone. Tulip has filled me in on everything that has happened while I was away. I'm gathering some men together to form a search party for Thatcher" Cade says sympathetically. Turning his attention tome to continues, "Meanwhile, I think that with everything that has happened, a celebration for Arthur and Bonnie is in order! There has been so much loss, murder, and tragedy that has happened here. I really do think celebrating their union is a good way to put some of this treachery behind us." Shelly sighs heavily, and takes another sip of tea before she excuses herself from the table. "I think I might have a bath, I'm not much in the celebrating mood. Give Arthur and Bonnie my best." "Are you sure Shelly? I mean I know you wouldn't wanna miss this for the world" I inquire. "Yes, I really need to calm my nerves, and I know Thatcher wouldn't want me to be a total wreck at the celebration. A nice, hot, relaxing bath is just what I need" she explains before leaving the kitchen. Cade lowers his head and says, "I didn't mean to make her angry or upset her. I just thought that maybe by celebrating Arthur and Bonnie's wedding, it would lighten things up a bit."

I rise from my seat and gently place my hands on his scruffy cheeks, "Oh my sweetheart, it's not your fault. You did everything you could to protect Thatcher. The poor dear has been trhough so much over the years, this anger has been brewing inside of her for a long time. However, I do think if we just give her some time to herself, she will calm down enough to join in on the celebration." Cade sighs and replies, "You're right my darling, I'm sure she'll be in the grand hall later. Shelly is a strong woman, she always bounces back."

Midi rounds the corner with a broom, and "Excuse me majesties, I couldn't help but overhear. Is there to be a celebration this eve?" she asks excitedly. I give her a smile, "Ah! Midi, just the maid I was going to summon. Yes, you did hear correctly. There's to be a feast." Midi gasps, "Well bless my soul, they finally did it!" Cade and I chuckle lightly as I instruct her to gether the other maids and tidy up the grand hall. "Please set the table in the formal dining room. We will also need to send word to a few of their village friends." "Aye, majesty" she nods, and scurries off to find the other maids.

 "Come with me, my love. Let us take a walk. I've missed you greatly" Cade tells me as he takes my hand. "...and I you my darling" I reply lovingly. He leads me out of the kitchen, and down the hall that leads to the grand ballroom. "I love you my sweet. I have missed everything about you; your touch, your scent, the way your eyes sparkle in the moonlight. It's almost enough to drive a man mad when he's out there all alone in the forest." He stops walking and caresses my neck gently. Chills shoot down my spine, and butterflies fill my stomach. He presses against me, leaning me up against the wall. He moves in closer and kisses me passionately. As he deepens the kiss, I let out a little moan, and his fingers entwine in the lace of my underskirts as he unties them. Pausing a moment, I ask if he wants to move to a more private location, but he grins mischievously and whispers, "No, darling." He kisses me firmly playfully pinning me against a huge column in the ballroom. He then lifts my gown and throws one of my legs over his shoulder holding it there as he presses into me. With his free hand he covers my mouth to muffle my moans and kisses my neck, sending waves of electricity across my skin.

Too soon we hear voices far off down the hall. Cade speeds up and we both let out a great moan. Out of breath we sigh heavily, "I hope they didn't hear us!" I whisper with a slight giggle. "So what if they did? This is our castle and we can make love where we so please" he smiles and continues, "My dear, I'm so sorry that our reunion was shorter than I had hoped, under the circumstances-" "Oh hush, it was wonderful darling don't fret" I comfort him. "It was, wasn't it? Still, I will make it up to you later beautiful" he says kissing my forehead.

 Still with our clothes undone the voices have grown but a few feet away. Cade whispers ever so softly, "Don't move." Hidden by the pillar we hear the voices of Luke and Roonie enter the ballroom. "My sweet! How happy I am that you are alright! I was afraid I wouldn't be able to share this news with you" Roonie tells him as they come closer still. "A surprise, eh? Do tell me darling!" Luke says excitedly. "Well, I have wanted to tell you this for some time now, but you've been so busy with training, and then the battle and everything. I wanted to be sure before I told you. I am 2 months pregnant!" she squeals. Luke cries out in joy and tells her of his happiness, as Cade and I share shocked and excited expressions. Suddenly something grazes my hand and I notice that Luke has pressed Roonie against the other side of the column and is kissing her. There we stand; Luke and Roonie kissing one another against one side of the column, and a half naked Cade and I hidden on the other side. "What a sight this must be!" I think to myself. Just as Roonie's hand passes against mine she let's out a fearful shriek and they peek around the column. "Oh my gosh!" Roonie covers her eyes and squeaks in the highest octave I've ever heard. Cade and I cover ourselves as best we can, and give a sheepish grin. "Congratulations!" I manage to say. "Thanks, uh... you've got a... um... you're..." Luke stumbles over his words. With words failing him, he attempts to point out the problem. He raises a finger to indicate something but ends up poking me in my exposed breast. "Hey! Watch it!" I shout in shock. Luke looks horror struck, "I'm so sorry! I did try to tell you." He shamefully turns around. Cade, who is now fully dressed, bursts into laughter at the situation. We all look at him in surprise, and can't help but to laugh as well. Roonie helps me with my skirt and instructs Luke it's safe to turn back around.

Later on as I sit reading in my chambers, Tulip comes bursting in. "Oh Nora have you heard the news? Roonie is pregnant!" Smiling widely I reply, "Yes! I'm so excited for her!" "You should come downstairs. The decorations for the feast are beautiful, and the food smells so good! I really think Arthur and Bonnie are gonna love it! I've come to fetch you, because everyone is ready for the guests of honor" she tells me. "Ok, I will be down in a few minutes. I need to freshen up first" I smile as I explain. She nods in understanding and heads out of the room.

 

As everyone takes their seats we clamor on about how delectable the feast looks. Several large roasts fill shining silver platters, and deep bowls are filled with crispy salad. Roasted potatoes and buttery yams are placed nearby along with baskets of bread and an assortment of vegetables. "My lords, my ladies, and fellow guests dinner is served!" Cookie calls out as she waddles toward the table. Roonie and Luke congratulate Arthur and Bonnie, while Tulip calls for a toast. "I would like to propose a toast to my very good friends. May your lives be long and your happiness forever" Tulip announces cheerily. A deafening cheer fills the room, as Bonnie grins and Arthur kisses her cheek. "Thank you Tulip, and thank you Mom and Cade. You really didn't have to go all out like this" Bonnie tells them. "Only the best for our dear Bonnie" Cade tells her. "Well we had to do something since a certain couple wanted to sneak off and get married in secret" I kid. "Not in secret, just in private. It just seemed more intimate that way. I knew Mom would be upset, but it's just the way we wanted to do it... hey where is Mom?" Arthur says searching the table for her. I explain that the news of Thatcher has her too upset too stressed. "She went for a hot bath, we hope she will join us soon though" I explain. "Yea knowing Mom, she'll be along soon" Luke adds. "Let's eat!" Reed gives a hearty holler as he grins and fills his plate with roast.

The group talks over the meal, about the past week, and the conversation turns to little Juliana and Thatcher. My place at the table is next to Cade and Luke who are talking about where to start looking for Thatcher. "Well, even though we have Parfon, that still leaves us with three other known enemies who would want to take Thatcher as a prisoner" Luke says. "Yeah, but I highly doubt the lycans would take Thatcher to their domain with Carolin hunting them" Arthur points out. "True, but what about Thistle and Kristen? We all know they just didn't fade away after they murdered Cirrus" Melina says. I glance at the other end of the of the table and see Cirrus chattering on with the villagers. Bonnie has joined them, and everyone seems to be having a merry time. I wouldn't want Cirrus to overhear this kind of talk about the day we lost her, but she seems none the wiser, and I turn my attention back to the conversation about Thatcher. "It's true they have been very quiet, but surely they wouldn't mess with the lycans" Arthur speculates. "Alex was heading back to Blue Haven, maybe they took him there?" Tulip suggests. "That's a good thought, but very doubtful" Cade says. "What about Ector?" He was a shady guy. Perhaps he was leading a party to kidnap Thatcher?" Jax wonders. "Ector may be evil, but he's too weak to form a party of lycans to obey his every command" Cade interjects. "Say we send a few men to the site Thatcher was taken, maybe they can find some answers in the morning" Luke recommends. "Good thinking my friend. I actually have a group that are getting ready to leave to search for him. Hopefully they can find the tracks fo the beasts who took him" Cade informs us. "Well enough of this awful conversation, this is supposed to be a joyous occasion. What do you say we head into the grand hall for some music and dancing?" I offer. The table agrees and everyone makes their way to the grand hall. 

"Poor Shelly, she must be beside herself right now. I don't know what I would have done if my Luke hadn't been returned to me" peeps Roonie with a frown. "Yes, where is mother? It isn't like her not to join a good celebration!" Arthur inquires. "You're right brother. Especially when it comes to family, she wouldn't miss it for the world" Luke adds. "I'm gonna go check on her, I'll be back in a few minutes" Melina says as she excuses herself from the table.

"Let's get this party really started!" Clover calls out. "Back to her trashy outfits again I see. Goodness, doesn't that girl know how to dress like a lady?" Tulip whispers to Bonnie. She glances over at Clover who's dress has left absolutely nothing to the imagination, and rolls her eyes. "Ugh, I still think she's a tramp, but I think Midi has seen her here before and assumed we wanted to invite her" Bonnie scoffs. "How long do you think she and Reed will stay together?" Roonie giggles. "As long as he can put up with her" laughs Bonnie. "Well I really don't care what she does, as long as she keeps her hands off my Jax!" Tulip demands. "Now ladies, I know that girl is a bit thick headed, and goodness knows she needs a lesson or two about being a lady. But, let us not speak so ill of others" Cirrus reminds them. Continuing she turns to Roonie, "Come my dear, I have a gift for you. I want to spend a bit of time with each of you before I have to give my final farewell."

Throughout the night several people are pulled aside by Cirrus, and return with a look of bittersweet emotion upon their face. Still with no sign of Shelly, and no word from Melina, I am the last one chosen to visit with Cirrus. I follow her through the halls of the castle as we walk in silence. Finally reaching the library, she stops and turns the knob. We make ourselves cozy on the plush chairs in the center, and she gives me a warm smile. "My dear, you've come so far in your journey. Through time, through realms, and through adversity as well. You have been given a gift " she tells me pointing to the amulet. Before I can speak she continues, "There may be a time that amulet becomes corrupt and shows you visions of lies. Do be careful my dear! You have become so strong at listening to your heart, and you must do so when you receive visions. Trust your heart, not your eyes. I have so enjoyed our time together, and thankful am I that you and Cade have found happiness." "Thank you Cirrus, I can't tell you how wonderful it has been to know you, and I'll always enjoy the times we shared together" I smile as I tell her. She grins in return but there is sadness in her eyes, and the corners of her mouth fall as she glances away. "What's wrong Cirrus? What is it?" I ask worriedly. She takes a deep breath and tells me, "Soon this castle will house an heir to Brendlewood; your son-" "Why that's wonderful news! A son! I can't wait to tell Cade!" I blurt out but Cirrus stops me quickly. "My dear this conversation must remain between us, if you speak of the foretold there can be dangerous repercussions. I must warn you my dear to please heed caution at the birth of your son, it is hazy after that day and I am uncertain of your fate." "I will make sure I take all the extra precautions Cirrus. Thank you for sharing this with me, I will never forget you!" I tell her with tears in my eyes. We rise to rejoin the celebration and embrace tightly. "Come, it is almost time now" she says quietly. 

We return to the grand hall, where music is echoing through the room and guests are dancing happily. Champagne flutes are being filled and some of our friends chat near the fireplace. Cirrus makes her final rounds, and as the huge grandfather clock draws near midnight, we gather around the beloved enchantress to bid our last farewells. The music all but stops as a cello plays a soft solo. "To Cirrus, an exceptional enchantress, and a well-loved friend. Thank you for everything, we shall miss you all of our days" Cade says raising his glass. "To Cirrus! Here, here!" everyone cheers. Tulip holds tight to Cirrus's hand and I can just make out what she whispers. Cirrus smiles her warm smile and squeezes Tulip's hand, "When the time comes you'll know what to do..." Tulips gentle tears flow heavily as Jax gently pulls her away from Cirrus, and wraps his arms around her lovingly. The clock strikes midnight, and Cirrus calls out, "Farewell my dears, you'll be forever in my heart." Her radiant blue hair and clothes shie brighter than ever, and on the last stroke of midnight she fades into a sparkling blue smoke and disappears out the window and into the night sky. We all watch with heavy hearts as she vanishes forever.

The band slowly picks up the pace of the music and guests begin getting back to their merriment. Jax is able to console Tulip, and Bonnie, (who has had a bit too much to drink) darts to the middle of the dance floor and everyone goes wild. "I'll miss her..." I tell Cade as he walks up beside me. "We all will darling. The thing to remember though is-" Cade says, but he stops abruptly. Melina is crying uncontrollably and I take her into my arms to comfort her. "My dear what ever is the matter?" I ask with concern. With a shaky hand she holds out a note, which Cade quickly reads, and looks at me with alarm. "What's wrong sweetie" I almost shout. He runs his hand through his hair nervously and replies, "Shelly is gone."