Secrets of Ravenstone: Keeper of La Tecla (The Key) Book One

Now late October, everyone prepared for the island’s annual Halloween festival that was held within the estate walls for all to attend, during the daylight hours. During the months, I learned more about the Lycynians, by reading pages from the book Marxus had given me, or from word of mouth, making a shocking discovery that they’d be shifting on the island, but it was a far more aggressive shift than their daily, or provoked transitions. I figured they couldn’t have been allowed to roam the island, not during the Boar-wolves reign so I pestered ’til I found someone willing to answer my inquiries.

Whenever I seemed to ask Marxus, he always dismissed the conversation until finally he suggested that I speak with one of the paranormals directly, perhaps the alpha that dwelt on the island. I was in the training yard with Jonathan and Sarah when Leonus approached. Taking a break from my training, I took the chance and asked the bulky Scotsman, whose reply was gruff, and blunt.

“Marxus hasn’t told you?” he mocked, looking at her petite form standing so small compared to him, “Why doesn’t that surprise me?” he scoffed, looking away.

“No, he hasn’t.” I snapped back, placing my hands on my hips, “That’s why I’m asking you, because he suggested that I do, and if you don’t want to answer that’s fine.”

“Then I won’t answer.” he leered, “Why don’t you go uh, ask your Italian wolf-lover, hmm? I’m sure he can tell you.” he let out a deep snort, hiding a laugh, then stormed away, “Stupid girl.” he finished under his breath.

“Thanks for nothing!” I called out, knowing he heard me, “Stupid wolf.” then turned, “What the hell is his problem?” I returned to my training.

“No one knows.” Jonathan answered, “He’s always been that way, perhaps it has something to do with his alpha status.” he shrugged, “He thinks it gives him a reason to be an a** about it, I don’t know.”

“Probably.”

“Are you going to stand around and chat all day, or are you going to train?” Sarah groaned, turning to her friends, “Cause I have somewhere I’d like to be, if you are.”

“And where’s that?” Jonathan wondered, “You told me earlier that you had nothing planned for the day.”

Shooting an arrow at the target, striking it perfectly center shot, she lowered her bow. Turning to Jonathan she argued,

“That was before, when I thought we were going to train, but now that you’re standing here blabberin’ on about the bloody Lycynians, I find it rather boring.” she huffed.

“You know what, I think I’ll just uh, surrender my weapons.” I announced softly. Walking toward the weapons cabinet, I quickly placed my sword back among the others.

“Yza, come on, you don’t have to go.” Jonathan called to her.

“No, really, it’s fine.” I grinned. Glancing past his shoulder, I watched as Sarah strung another arrow, aimed and released it, “Besides, I think the two of you need to talk and I really don’t think she wants me around for that, so honestly, I’ll catch you later.” I finished telepathically. Patting his arm, I took a few steps around him, “By the way, is the library open for all, or is it locked?”

“Nope, it’s open for all.” Jonathan turned to her.

“Great, thanks. See you later, Sarah!” I waved at her.

“Yep, later!” she hollered, shooting another arrow.

Later that evening, speaking with Marxus, I learned far more about the Lycynians, for Anthony was nowhere to be found, so I figured he retreated to be alone before his transition. As we strolled across the estate that same evening, he explained that there was an area built for them, just something else that I needed to learn about. As he walked ahead of me, I paused.

“When you say an area built for them?” I questioned, “Sorry, but that sounds like a zoo.” I glanced at the sky, watching as the moon shone her light brightly across the island.

“No, Little One.” Marxus frowned, turning to her, “It is not a zoo.” he placed a hand on her shoulder, “Would you like to go upon the wall and observe their transition? They’re shifting behind the estate within the forest.” he watched as she offered a hesitant nod, “But I must tell you beforehand, that it is and can be, very frightening the first time you witness is. Even til this day, I still cringe from time-to-time and of course, maybe embarrassing, for the men and women shed their clothing.” he grimaced with an awkwardness, “I don’t favor the sight of naked bodies, thank you. I think we have both seen enough of it in Scotland, don’t you think?” he side-eyed her.

“Ah, gotcha.” I groaned, “I’d like to see, regardless of nudity, this…” I paused, then looked at him, “nevermind. Will we be safe up there though, I mean can’t the Lycynians jump the wall?”

“We will be in the presence of the Guardians, and no, they can not jump the wall. Many have tried, but none have ever succeeded.” Marxus walked with her.

“Are you sure?” I looked at him.

“You have my word.” he held a hand to his chest.

“Your word? Yeah, right!” I remarked sarcastically, “Because that went so well last time, remember?”

Marxus sighed heavily, saying nothing as he called for one of the Guardians; minutes later, Wyatt appeared, opening one of his portals that led to the wall, for both Marxus and I could see the length of the black slate on the other side. Appearing atop, Marxus glanced at his watch, giving the time of almost 11:45pm and veering across the estate, toward the manor, he wondered where all of the Lycynians were, for they had not yet arrived. As he paced nervously, I pointed out toward the dwelling far across the estate, where a large group of male and female paranormals, with the majority of the men, were quickly sprinting toward the wall. Peeking over the ledge, I watched as Wraith and Demon Guardians rapidly appeared below, opening large silver doors leading out into the forest behind us, however, what I didn’t know, nor could I see, was the forest that they entered, was walled off creating some sort of habitat-like zoo compound. And when I do say walled off, I don’t mean a physical wall but that being of the invisible barrier that Demon Guardians put into place during the transition. I watched as the Wraiths and Demons closed, and locked the doors from both the inside and outside of the area.

“So when you say walled off?” I turned to Marxus, “Meaning?”

“As you can see, Little One…” he turned her toward the vast forest behind the estate, “they have Ravenswood to wander about, or at least a large portion of it.” he glanced down at her, “And by walled off, I mean magically.” he gestured at the Demons nearby, creating the barrier that started from above, spreading out like a dome that encircled a vast portion of the forest.

“I can see that, but couldn’t you have stretched the boundary a bit more? Cause look at this…” I argued, gesturing around, watching as the barrier shimmered in some places from the Boar-wolves that had been drawn to the sounds of the gates that opened and locked, “they’re kept like pets in a god damn zoo!” I frowned, looking at him.

“They’re not pets, and what I’ve set for them is just and fair.”

“Yeah, how so?” I folded my arms sarcastically, “Tell me.”

“Because…” he answered, completely facing her, “I, and I am sure everyone else on the island, would rather have them like this, within this barrier of three acres of Ravenswood, in their animalistic state, than roaming the island engaging with the Boar-wolves. Imagine the carnage and death that both of the creatures, mindless and unaware, would leave behind. Or…” he groaned impatient of her comments, “they could kill each other, and just rid us of them all together.” he shrugged with a coldness to him that I had never seen during the time that I have known him.

Remaining silent, I imagined the scene in horrific detail. As I pushed the thought from my mind, I revealed softly that I did understand, but still wondered why he couldn’t have at least, expanded the barrier, giving them three hundred acres worth.

“You certainly have ample room.” I moaned.

“Yzavela, would you please stop questioning everything that I have done here?! Someday you can change it, but for now, it stays the way it is, now enough said about the matter or I’ll toss you in there and they will enjoy themselves a feisty, and mouthy little Latina.” Marxus protested, showing his Spanish temper, but he clearly had forgotten that she also possessed a Latina temper.

“I would like to see you try!” I warned, “But fine, enough has been said on the matter but when I become Keeper, and I will, I am going to extend the barrier, giving them what is fair to them!” I argued, “No wonder Leonus and the other Lycynians are moody all the time, they’re nothing more than animals…” I huffed, beginning to steam, “put on display for the all of the Guardians that do nothing but mock, and antagonize them.” I looked around, “There…” I released a blast of steam before my Aura would ignite, “now enough has been said.” I turned, walking away, leaving the Immortal standing perplexed.

“Three hundred acres?” he called out to her.

Minutes before midnight, the Lycynians, quickly removed all of their clothing, piling it up near the gates so they could find it in the morning after their shift. I had to look away because there were far too many naked bodies for my eyes, especially when Nathan looked up, seeing my figure. He took a series of steps forward, showing off his NOT SO BIG prize between his legs once more and as he grabbed himself once or twice, I turned away feeling nauseous, hearing his loud sexual howls.

“Little Yza…” Anthony’s voice entered my mind. As I turned, leaning on the ledge of the wall, I searched for him among all of the others, until there he was, emerging from the thick line of trees, with his hands respectfully covering his adulthood.

“Are you okay?” I reached out to his mind.

“I will be, but…” he looked around, “you shouldn’t be here. I don’t want you to see this side of me, it’s not pleasant.”

“It’s part of who you are, I want to.” I comforted, “Besides, it wouldn’t be the first time I’ve seen you naked.” I teased, “This is, what, the third time now?” I looked away, allowing him the dignity, feeling a warm flush to my face, knowing I must have been blushing profusely.

He smiled, laughing both verbally and telepathically. Looking around him once more, his smile faded, watching as the other Lycynians around him, began moaning, as the shift was close upon them.

Glancing at Marxus, he turned away, shaking his head as he leaned his back against the waist-high wall. Suddenly, from above, the moon shone her light, and as it glided along the black slate highlighting all of the hidden flaws, cracks and crevices, it stretched out across the island, and into the compound; the Lycynians’ transition began. Since the wall was 60 feet tall, it was too high for me to observe everything fully, so one of the Guardians handed me a set of binoculars from a gadget box.

“Thank you.” I appreciated. As I turned, glancing back into the area below, their transformation reminded me of all of the UNDERWORLD movies, with their eyes to begin the stages. Turning yellow signifying Beta and Omega ranks, it was only Leonus’ blue eyes that flashed red, declaring his alpha status. Large fangs protruded from their drooling mouths and their claws extended from their cracking fingers and fingertips, and as they scratched the ground beneath them, they then tore at their skin, “Oh my god…” I winced, lowering the binoculars, then raised the lenses, continuing to observe as their entire skeletal structure broke, achieving the tall Lycynian-jackal frame of longer arms, muscular legs, and bulkier builds. Their heads and facial features extended as their noses protruded outward. Their ears pushed back from their face, and pointed at the tips. I was surprised to see they had no tails but these men and women, weren’t werewolves in the traditional sense that mortals think they are. Once the transition ended, their heights grew taller, to at least eight feet tall, but Leonus was the largest, presenting his alpha persona of a nine foot tall jackal, “That’s…” I scanned all of the beasts running around with dark brown, short-stubbly fur, while Leonus, since he is alpha, was the only black Lycynian among them, looking like Anubis himself, “incredible.” I lowered the binoculars.

“Incredible?” Marxus looked at her curiously.

“Unimaginably painful yes, but still incredible.” I admired, then without the binoculars, I watched as the Lycynians held their heads up toward moon, releasing loud powerful howls, then turned, running off into the forest through the treeline out of sight but glancing around, I could see violent shimmer as the beasts were attempting to break through; I could hear loud yelps as the magic burned against their tough hides, “That’s not something you see everyday, and I don’t uh, think I want to know what happens to their mortal skin once it’s shed.” I shivered at the unsettling thought, “And you are wrong, Marxus.” I turned to him.

“How so?” he questioned, looking at her with surprise.

“You said they were frightening and yes they are, but yet at the same time, they’re beautiful.” I admired, glancing out.

“Beautiful?” one of the Guardians mocked her, “You’re mad.”

“Than I’m mad, because it’s true. I mean, to change your form from one to another must be…” and as I looked at both the Guardian, and Marxus, I figured it wasn’t worth explaining, so I turned away, “nevermind.”

Marxus stood silent, overlooking Ravenswood, hearing loud howls and rustling through the trees where the heads of some of the beasts could be seen from the tallest branches before they attempted leaping for the wall, only to find themselves falling short quite a few feet.

Taking steps back, watching as the paranormal beings yelped, sliding down the inner wall of the magical barrier, singing, or burning their hides, I frowned, taking a step back. Turning to Wyatt, I asked him if he could kindly remove my presence; I had seen enough to understand far more than I wanted to in a single moment. Walking across the estate ground in the cold evening air, I suddenly heard Marxus’ voice loudly call out.

“Yzavela…Little One…please, stop!”

Huffing heavily, I paused, then turned around, watching as he grew closer in brisk strides.

“It’s cold, and I need to walk Zanzabarr and probably need to feed Abraxas.” I folded my arms for warmth.

“I’m sure your wolf and dragon can wait.” he slurred, “Please, I don’t want to argue.”

“I’m not arguing, but I must ask one more question, then I’m done.”

“And what would that be?” he clasped his hands behind him.

“If you put the Lycynians in there, what do you feed them?” I wondered sarcastically, “Large bowls of Lycynian kibble? I’m sure since the Boar-wolves have reign over the remaining, and extremely vast forestry, they must have killed off all of the wildlife. Even you stated that when you first told me their story, remember?”

“I remember.” Marxus grew impatient, “And that…” he took a slow step around her, “I will not tell you, but maybe those beasts eat little girls who ask too many questions.”

“Or maybe they’re dying to sink their teeth into riddling men, or Immortals that don’t answer said, too many questions.” my voice barked as I turned, following his step-around motion.

“You have some nerve.” he objected, folding his arms.

“Dish it, but can’t take it. That figures.” I shook my head then turned, rushing toward my dwelling, where I could hear both Zanzabarr and Abraxas howling from inside, “I’m coming!” I whispered to myself.

After she disappeared from sight, Marxus sighed as he took a slow stroll toward the maze to calm his nerve, while he spoke to himself, and they say the best advice comes from one that talks to themselves, or so I’ve heard.

“What a challenge this is going to be, what am I supposed to do with that girl? How can I get her to understand things?” he paused, coming to a realization, “Who are you kidding, she understands far more than you realize, and you need to allow her to come into the position on her own terms, not yours.” he sighed heavily, then continued stringing along a few more sentences in Spanish. Coming to the center of the maze, there was a large fountain, similar to the one in RP&V, that greeted him. However, this one held more importance. Knowing that everyone retired for the evening, he stood in a wizard’s circle of arcane magic, that magically etched itself deeply onto the cobblestone ground, after summoning its presence. Standing with his arms held out, palms facing upward, he recited in his Spanish tongue once more, a spell that called for beings of all four natural elements to set him free, taking back the magic that has been granted to him, and pleading to take him to his rightful resting place to be reunited with his family, “Amigos mágicos de la Tierra, el Fuego, el Agua y el Aire, venid a mí mientras rezo esta oración. Quita ahora todo lo que me has dado, la magia que hay dentro me libera. Lleva mi alma a un lugar de descanso, para estar con mi familia y en la gracia de Dios.” he sighed softly. Lowering his arms, his Hazel-brown eyes watched as lights appeared around him, some from thin air, others bloomed from the grass and flowers, splashed out of the water and sparks of flame that ignited from nowhere. As each set of beings came from their natural and elemental environment, taking shape, they revealed small nature figures and sprites that were hidden in plain sight. Swirling around in spiraling motions, they drew energy from his body and as they performed this act, he glowed, releasing power back to nature. Once the glow ceased, Marxus smiled at each of the beings that hovered in front of him, before falling to his knees, feeling weak and drained, “It’s all right…” he whispered as all of the figures hovered around him, “please, my friends, send a message to my allies of my passing, for their help is going to be needed.” his eyes grew tired, “Now that I have given back what you’ve given me, the time will soon be at hand for you to escort my spirit where it belongs.” he smiled, listening to all of their high-pitched squeaks and shrieks, “But first...there is one last thing I must do. Thank you, for your friendship…” he gasped, as if running out of air that filled his lungs, “and for your loyalty.” he finished.

The beings reluctantly nodded, then those of air flew, and of water, flowed back through the water systems of the Irish Sea. Grass and flower sprites spread their messages through seed and roots, or trees, while fire beings carried their embers in the wind.

Once the sprites and spirits vanished, Marxus stood feeling a sense of relief, and a weakness in his legs as he took in a deep breath. Glancing around at everything that he has built, and created, he felt a heartbreaking sadness overwhelm him with a rush of uncontrolled emotions. After gathering himself, and wiping his tears away, there was one little flower sprite with a ring of dark red petals, leafy arms and legs, and a stem for a body, letting out little cries as it sat in the grass, surrounding the fountain. Standing at five inches tall, it reached out its leafy arms.

“Easy there, little flower…” Marxus glanced down, reaching for it, “everything comes to an end, but death is never really the end, you know that.” he spoke to it softly, offering a faint smile.

Looking at the Immortal with big, black, bug-like eyes in its flower’s center, it continued releasing high-pitched shrieks. As it was placed upon the man’s shoulder, it held on while he strolled through the maze, returning to the manor.

Sitting at his desk, placing the flower on the ledge, he leaned back, taking several more deep breaths as he closed his eyes.

“Not yet…” he whispered. Opening his eyes, he lowered his right hand, opening the nearby drawer, removing antique, old photographs that were taken in the 1500s of his daughter and his wife. Staring at their photos, he turned them over, looking at their names written in his elegant penmanship: MY LILY AND BELOVED DIANAH. Feeling the sting of tears in his eyes, he spoke to them, whispering that he will be with them soon. Glancing at the flower that glided over, it laid its leafy hand upon his, looking at him, as if trying to offer comfort to him in its own way, “Thank you, little one.” he petted one of its delicate petals, “Thank you.” he smiled, “You have been one of the most faithful, and I will miss you.” his Hazel eyes softened, then blinked his tears away. Gently laying the two photos aside, he reached into the drawer once more, fetching a pad of parchment and pen, writing letters for those that he knew, needed to hear his last written, or spoken words.

Once the letters were written he stood, approaching a trunk that was placed near his desk, retrieving items from inside. He turned, placing the medallion for the new Keeper inside the letter meant for Yzavela. Setting the orb stone beside it, he then folded each letter in a series of three sealing them with a wax stamp with his initials of M.A.C. embedded in it. Pushing them aside, he sat in the chair, reaching for the antique desk phone, dialing zero. Listening as the dull dial tone beeped, someone had finally answered.

“Speak your name.” a voice requested bluntly.

“Marxus Alejandro Castillion.” he answered.

“One moment please.”

Marxus waited, tapping his fingers against the desk, when he heard a click, letting him know he reached the Order of Men.

“Comment puis-je vous aider, monsieur?” a man greeted with a French voice, asking how he could help.

“It is done, and it is time.” Marxus frowned, “She is ready.”

“Very well. I will arrive soon.” the man answered, then ended the call just like that, without further words spoken.

Staring at the phone, Marxus frowned once more, then placed it back on its base. Reaching for the photos of his daughter and wife, he stood, slowly shuffling toward his settee, and he never shuffled his feet. Laying back, he clutched the photos in hand close to his chest, then closed his eyes, whispering softly, his last words.

“Now, I am ready.” he took one last breath, slowly falling into a forever slumber, allowing his essence to diminish.

The flower sat on his chest crying, then it turned, floating to the ground. Walking outside onto the balcony, it broke apart, having its petals and leaves glide through the air, spreading a message, letting all know of the Immortals’ departure.

Across the continent, in Africa, a Nubian Jinn King by the name of Azir Jaheem-Zuberi, sat by the fire with his wife and Queen, Natash Jelani-Zuberi and their eldest son and Prince, Baako Zuberi. Talking among themselves, a sudden burst of fire and embers spat from the fire-pit in the center of the tent, delivering a message from his old friend, Marxus. As a series of embers formed the Immortal’s face that spoke in his voice, they then disappeared, falling among the other embers that spat from the fire. Azir glanced at Natash with worry, for it was now time that they travelled to the Isle of Castillion, the place he and his kin helped infuse with magic, literally and yes, physically, building it from the ground up.

“We must prepare, my love.” Azir spoke in a deep and elegant African accent, “We must prepare now.”

“I will inform our people of departure.” Natash replied in the same accent.

“I will take care of our people, Father.” Baako stood proudly.

Both Azir and Natash gazed upon their son.

“Please, let me do this. Let me prove that I am ready to care for our people in your absence, with uncle’s assistance.” Baako bowed his head in respect.

Approaching their son, they were proud of his strength.

“I will speak with Azim.” Azir placed a hand on his son’s back.

“Thank you, Father.” Baako grinned.

“Do not thank me yet, you know how your uncle gets.” Azir proclaimed, “Now go on now, be with your betrothed. I must speak with your mother.” he gave a quick squeeze to his son’s shoulder.

“Mother. Father.” Baako nodded

“My son…” Natash embraced him, giving a quick kiss, then backed away, watching as he departed their tent, returning to his own where his betrothed, although pregnant soon-to-be wife, waited for him.

“So…the time has finally come.” Natash muttered once their son’s presence was truly gone. Looking at Azir, she watched as he paced.

“Indeed it has.” the King frowned, “And even though I knew this day would come…” he turned to her, “it saddens me.”

“I know, my love…” she walked over, holding onto him, “it saddens me too.”

Sharing a moment, leaning their heads against one another’s, they stared into the fire-pit listening as the embers spat, and wood cracked. They weren’t sure how they would approach the situation, or how they would introduce themselves to the new heir, or Keeper, for they were unsure if Marxus had ever mentioned their existence in any detail. Regardless, Azir has been around for a little over five centuries, and knows how to present himself in ways that wouldn’t cause panic those who might not be accustomed to the meeting of Jinn.

“It is time.” he whispered, holding Natash close.

Days rapidly passed, and everything had been completed and prepared for the Halloween festival, including entertainment which I had found out, were sponsored by Nick, Jonathan, and Caleb, as well as Justin, who were the island’s band and from what I had heard, quite the best around. All were super excited, dressing in full costumes, making it all feel like one of those masquerade events.

Lady D helped the witches decorate in Wiccan motifs.

I, on the other hand, spent time with Anthony after his shift, but our amorous moments seemed to always be interrupted by something, or someone, so we put our feelings, and desires, on hold. I gathered in the lounge with my friends, discussing our costumes, and were grateful the rains had subsided.

“He really is something.” Anthony admired, then laughed as Abraxas flew around, trying to avoid Zanzabarr’s playful, but aggressive chase.

“But he’s totally awesome.” Jonathan smiled, then glanced to his left, watching as Leonus stormed through the front foyer doors, with water spots on his shoulders from the light, and annoying drizzle that had sprinkled earlier, “Uh-oh, here we go, here comes trouble.” he leaned forward, quickly nudging Yzavela’s knee. Catching her gaze, he gestured his head into the foyer toward Leonus.

“Have any of you seen Marxus?!” Leonus stomped toward the lounge loudly. Leaning on one of the chairs, he looked around, “He’s been missing for days.”

“Maybe he’s away on business.” Jonathan shrugged.

“No, he would have told me.” the Scotsman barked. Leering at the young woman that would inherit what was rightfully his, he snickered bluntly, “Did he mention anythin’ to you?” he sniffled, “Maybe something you forgot about perhaps?” he mocked.

“Pfft.” Anthony snorted, leering at the Scotsman.

“The only thing that I would like to forget about, is you but no, Leonus. He didn’t tell me anything, and even if he did, I think I would remember.” I snapped, leering at him, “But I do know of a place where I could look, but I doubt that he’s been gone for five days down there.”

“Down where?” Erik joked, widening his eyes.

“I didn’t mean that.” I couldn’t help but chuckle, then glanced at Leonus, “Perhaps I can help, what do you need?”

“Unfortunately, this is none of your business, as you are not Keeper yet, but if you must know you irritating little girl, I’ll need his input on what kind of podium he wants built for all of the festivities tonight. Can you handle that…KEEPER?”

“I have the perfect idea right off the bat.” I barked.

“And what is that?” Leonus raised a curious eyebrow.

“You. You’re certainly big, and bulky enough.” I mocked.

Saying nothing, Leonus growled, then turned, storming out.

“That wasn’t nice.” Anthony leaned in, tickling her.

Laughing, I then stared at the space where Leonus stood, and became worried. Excusing myself momentarily, with Abraxas and Zanzabarr following after, I rushed up the swirling stairs. Knocking on the study door, it was locked, so I called out his name but he didn’t answer. Thinking he might have been down in the cave with Axeon, I knew I needed Leonus’ set of keys that included one for the study door.

“F*ck me.” I cursed, then descended the stairs. As I passed the lounge, hearing everyone call out my name, I didn’t have a choice but to ignore them as I ran through the doors after Leonus with my dragon and wolf close behind, “Leonus…” I called out the man’s name as he followed the path back to the Lycynian dwelling, “LEONUS!” I shouted a final time.

“Bloody hell, now what?” he complained under his breath. As he turned, he watched as the young woman approached with a black wolf and dragon running and flying after her. Just as she finished her request for the keys, he wondered, folding his arms, “Why do you need the keys? Marxus didn’t give you a set of your own?”

“No, he didn’t, now give me the god damn keys!” I argued bluntly, as I held out my right hand, “Today, please!”

Leonus scrunched his mouth forward, and as he removed the ring from his belt, instead of dropping them into her hand, he deliberately let them fall to the ground at her feet.

“Oops. Missed.” he groaned then turned away.

“Arrogant mother f*cker.” I muttered, watching as his bulk stomped away. Focusing on the path ahead of him, I concentrated on the grass and gravel, setting it aflame for just a moment, before extinguishing it, leaving a large scorch mark across the pathway. I grinned, watching as he stumbled backwards, wondering where the occurrence could have originated and as he turned, facing my direction, I gave a sarcastic bow then muttered telepathically, “Oops. Missed.” as I reached down for the ring of keys.

“F*cking half-breed b*tch.” he cursed, then stepped over the scorched path.

“F*cking mongrel.” I leered at him. Running back to the manor, everyone stood outside, waiting for my return but I said nothing as I rushed past them inside.

Watching as she ascended the stairs, both Anthony and Erik called out to her in their terms of endearment, but she didn’t answer.

Coming back to the study, I knocked a few more times, but I still received no answer. Placing the keys in the lock, I slowly opened the door, glancing around quickly, not paying much attention to the settee that was set far back off to the right. As I closed the door behind me after Zanzabarr and Abraxas, I quickly locked the door, then rushed toward the bookshelf, leading to the Room of Secrets and passageway that led down to Axeon’s cavern. Once it slid open, I scampered toward the iron door and placing my hands upon on the smooth surface, I remembered that the only way to open it, I would need the Keeper’s medallion. Thinking maybe he could have left in, or on, his desk, I tapped my hands on the door then turned, and rushed back to the study toward the desk. Carefully, I shifted through all of the papers and envelopes, looking for a clue or two, that would tell me where he could have gone. Noticing a series of folded letters with words scribbled on them, and that of several items nearby, I didn’t dare read, or move, any of them so sitting in the chair, I thought about any other places he might have been, or could have hidden away the medallion.

Abraxas and Zanzabarr scampered toward the settee, taking notice of something that required her immediate attention but their mother was too focused on other things.

“Mother…” Abraxas reached out to her telepathically, “there is something you must see.”

“Yes Abraxas, and what’s that?” I answered, raising my gaze; the small dragon perched on the back of the settee where the tips of boots could finally be seen.

“See for yourself.” Abraxas stretched out wings, then lowered his head.

I stood, hearing the sadness in his voice. Veering around the settee that faced the wall at an angle that couldn’t be seen from the door, I was speechless, for lying there was Marxus; his feet were crossed and his hands clasped together across his chest, holding something clutched in them. Thinking he might have slept, or was in a magical meditation, I stepped away, calling for the wolf and dragon but just as I reached the door, with my hand on the knob, something told me to turn around and stay. Turning to face the settee, I slowly returned, stepped around it, watching as an evening ray of sunlight had peeked through the balcony doors, shining upon him as if it were naturally, purposefully highlighting him. He seemed a bit transparent, as if he were a hologram, lying there with beams of colored light shining through him, glistening off the deep velvet fabric. His handsome features appeared peaceful.

Whispering his name softly, I received no reply, and standing inches away, I took notice his continuous stillness, when the thought occurred to me; the man who taught me so much, and that all respected and admired, passed. Reaching out my hands to touch him, they went right through as if he weren’t really there, but where he laid, was cold to the touch. None of it made any sense, but not knowing how to react, I shuffled backwards, letting out a loud scream of anguish and sadness, one that could be heard throughout the manor. Falling to my knees with Abraxas and Zanzabarr for comfort, I cried.

“What was that?” Sarah asked, grabbing onto a pillow nearby, “A Banshee?” she looked around.

“What’s with you and Banshees?” Jonathan looked at her.

Residents that scampered in the dining hall paused, all looked around and out the windows, even the kitchen staff stood in the doorway, wondering what was taking place and who had screamed. Some even feared they were under attack from the Shadowed Ones once more.

“It sounded like a scream.” Erik muttered, glancing around, as he heard the screams once more.

“That’s Yza…” Anthony stood, rushing past the young man, as he ran up the stairs, skipping a few steps, leaving Jonathan, Erik and Sarah in the lounge before they too, followed after him, “Yzavela?” he knocked on the door and as he attempted to open it, the barrier was locked, “Could you?” he turned to Erik.

“Hmm.” Erik moaned, then reached out his right hand, using his magic to unlock the door from inside.

“Thank you.” Anthony pushed the door open; his dark eyes immediately searched the study and gazing to his right, there she was, her petite frame knelt alongside the settee where the Immortal man laid, “Little Yza?” he whispered, taking steps toward her, seeing she buried her face in her wolf’s neck, as she held onto him, with her dragon curled in her lap, “Aye…” he gasped, realizing what laid before her, then knelt in front of her, cautious of her familiars that growled and shrieked.

In shock Erik, Jonathan and Sarah stood by the door, for they too, felt the loss and shock hit them. Jonathan quickly turned to Sarah, holding her close, while Erik stepped forward, wanting to comfort Yzavela, but Anthony was already there, but all he managed to do, was offer a comforting hand on her shoulder.

“Little Yza?” Anthony whispered once more.

“Keeps?” Erik added.

Raising my gaze, there stood both Erik and Anthony; both men expressed a sadness in their eyes. Gently urging Abraxas out of my lap and Zanzabarr aside, I leaned into Anthony’s embrace, crying into his shoulder as he held me close.

“It’s okay, my sweetheart…” he whispered, “it’s okay.”

“No it’s not…” I cried, “this is Marxus, he can’t be de…” my voice cracked, for I couldn’t say the word.

“Dead.” Erik finished softly.

“Shh….” Anthony rubbed her back, then glanced at Erik with a loss for words, and actions to take.