The Chimera (Legends of the Dark Creatures Book 2)

In times when Ashley wanted to be alone, only two places came to her mind. One was Destiny Cliff, and the other was behind the school building that nobody, except maybe Robert, knew about. That day, Ashley chose to be at the latter.

Chunks of rusty metal were all over the area, together with some old class and office desks, chairs, and even some blackboards. It was difficult to navigate through it all and people rarely came there.

Seated on a small cement platform, Ashley buried her face between her knees and wrapped her arms around her legs. Ironic, Ashley thought as hot tears began to form in her eyes. This place was a part of Ravenhill that she hated the most and yet, she always found herself coming back here. Maybe it was because here, no one could see what she was.

A weakling

Ashley pressed her face into her palm and dug her fingers into her hair as she pushed away the dark thoughts creeping their way into her mind.

Monster, half-breed, freak, lunatic

The thoughts were almost as audible as someone speaking to her and Ashley’s body couldn’t stop shaking.

“Happy thoughts... happy thoughts... Think happy thoughts,” she muttered to herself.

But what happy thoughts could she run to right now? Everything around her was a mess; thoughts about Richard only brought about guilt because she had decided she wanted to be Adrian, thinking about Adrian only reminded her of the lie she had told him to protect Sara and what would happen if he ever found out the truth, danger lurked Samantha, Claire, Luke and Robert because of the dark creatures she was drawing into town— even the whole town was in danger because of her. And to make things worse, Stacy was still out there and who knew what she was up to?

Game on

Since that last message she received from Stacy, Ashley had not only been on the edge but she felt that something within her was wrong. Just this afternoon, in the girl’s bathroom, one of the girls from the volleyball team had snuck up on Ashley as she was washing her hands. It was probably meant to be some silly scaring prank but by the time Ashley released it, she had already grabbed the poor girl by the neck and pinned her on the ground. Ashley recalled how for just a brief moment, all she could see was Stacy; choking to death, seeing the fear in her eyes— the same fear she’d made Ashley suffer when she tried to kill her over a year ago. Fortunately, Sara was there to bring her back to reality because not only had Ashley almost choked the girl but she had revealed some of her mermaid features— fangs, claws, and glowing eyes— to her. Sara had quickly called Spencer who used his compulsion abilities to make the girl forget what she saw.

I wish he could make me forget too, Ashley thought as she remembered how the girl had looked at her. The girl’s wide eyes were filled with so much terror and her skin was as pale as a ghost. But what hurt Ashley the most was the muffled words that came out of her mouth.

“Monster”

And that is why she had hidden here. Right now, Ashley was afraid of herself and she didn’t want to hurt anyone. She had already sent texts to both her friends and her family, telling them that she would not make it to the dance and that she had something else to do. After that, she turned her phone off and hoped no one would look for her.

The sky was already morphing into a red color as the sun began to set. Ashley only realized just how wet with tears her face was when a cool gentle breeze blew past her. She pushed away strands of her brown hair that were almost scratching her eyes and wiped away her tears with her palms.

“Many still believe it’s a rare sight to see a mermaid shed her tears. Shame they haven’t met you.”

Ashley clenched her fist and felt the muscles of her face tighten, forming angry lines. The only thing that kept her from slashing her claws against the monster that had just arrived was the understanding that she had no chance in hell— or any realm— of defeating him and as she heard his footsteps become louder, it then hit her.

It was all his fault; Sebastian coming to Ravenhill, the Dark Trinity, the dark creatures that were being drawn to this town, and the people who were dying because of it. All of it was his fault.

“Tell me something, Ethan.”

She slowly turned to face him. Ethan, as usual, was wearing his dark red leather coat, jeans, and boots; the clothes Ashley had now learned were made of dragon skin. He also wore a black T-shirt and a facial expression that showed no emotion.

Ashley stood up, looked Ethan in the eyes, and with a voice as cold as the harshest winter, she said, “Why do you even exist?”

Unfazed by what Ashley had just said, Ethan moved closer to her, both his hands in the pocket of his dark red jeans and said, “Are you sure that’s a question directed at me... or yourself?”

Something was wrong with Ashley for she wasn’t in her right mind when she launched a punch at Ethan’s face. At the speed, she had thrown her punch, an average human— or even vampire— couldn’t have blocked or dodged but Ethan effortlessly caught it and twisted it so hard that Ashley felt her shoulder almost dislocate.

“Tell me, little mermaid,” he said, letting go of Ashley’s hand. “Is this courage of yours a sign that you have already found the means by which to destroy me? Or perhaps I need to repeat the terms of our deal to you.”

As the pain in Ashley’s right elbow and shoulder faded, she gritted her teeth and tried her best to gather the words to say. What was she thinking attacking Ethan like that? And worse, how could she forget their deal? While Ethan had given Ashley and her friend permission to find a way to kill him, he said clearly that it didn’t mean he wouldn’t retaliate the moment they came after him.

Ashley had crossed a very dangerous line with him and she knew she had no other choice but to do what she did next.

Looking at the ground she said, “I am sorry, Ethan. Lately, I haven’t been in my right mind. I know we still haven’t come to a conclusion about our deal but I hope your offer still stands.”

Unsure of what expression Ethan had on his face or what he would say, Ashley, clenched her fist and refrained from bringing herself to face him.

“Quite the contrary little mermaid,” she heard Ethan say. “It seems to me that your mind has never been much clearer.”

Ashley faced Ethan. She was afraid that he would put off the offer he’d made her but was genuinely caught off guard by what he’d just said.

“What do you mean?” she asked.

“It is often when faced with the truth— no matter how harsh it may be— that our true nature reveals itself,” Ethan replied. “While I am curious as to what truth it is you have stumbled upon, it bears no relevance as to why have sought you today.”

Even though she was about to ask Ethan how he even knew where to find her, Ashley said, “What do you need from me?”

“Quite perceptive aren’t you little mermaid?” Ethan said.

“Perception has nothing to do with it,” Ashley replied, a smile crossing her face. “I am a half-breed, my magical signature is unique, and that’s all you’re interested in, isn’t it? You said you’d one day need me for something and after that, you’d leave this town... is that day today?”

“Perceptive and yet still, quite impatient,” Ethan said. “Fortunately for you, what I need from you today might help bring the day you so passionately hope for much closer to the present.”

For some reason, Ashley felt a bit uneasy. Ethan may have never shown his emotions but that day his voice carried something with it. It wasn’t hope that Ashley sensed; though she felt she would have been happy to know he was capable of such. Whatever Ethan was planning, Ashley got the feeling that it was something even he couldn’t afford to fail and she feared just how far he was willing to go to make sure that didn’t happen.

“What is it you need me for?” she asked and nervously waited for the words that would come out of Ethan’s mouth.

“I would you like to accompany me to the Underworld,” Ethan bluntly said.

Though Ashley had narrowed her eyes, trying her best not to look scared, she found that she couldn’t keep her hands from shaking.

“The Underworld? You mean—”

“There is only one Underworld little mermaid, and I refer to the same one that was once ruled by Hades; the uncle to the god you are trying to release from the Spirit Realm,” said Ethan.

“Why do you need me there?” asked Ashley.

Ethan was about to speak when he suddenly turned to face the school building. He sighed and said, “It appears our conversation will have to be cut short. But to answer your question... let’s just say that the Underworld also holds the key to finding something you have been missing in your life.”

Ethan began to walk toward Ashley and as he passed her he said, “Tonight I will return to you, and hopefully by then you would have had an answer.”

“And if I refuse your request?” asked Ashley. “Then what happens to me... or those I care about.”

“I hope you are not under the impression that I am here to threaten you, little mermaid,” Ethan replied. “As I said, this is something that will benefit us both. If you still refuse I will find another way, it’s that simple. I always honor my deals and would never stoop so low as to use the lives of others as leverage. You can— and you are right to think of me as a monster-- but never take me for a coward.”

Though he didn’t show it, Ashley knew that the question she had asked Ethan had offended him. What he said was true. Since he came to her, Ethan had never once threatened to hurt anyone to get what he wanted. If anything, all he had done up to this point was warn Ashley of the many dangers that would come into Ravenhill because of his and her presence. He even went as far as to protect Ashley and her friends from such threats; like the Dark Trinity.

“Ethan wait,” Ashley called when Ethan had walked a short distance from her.

Ethan stopped but didn’t turn to face her.

“You said I had stumbled upon a truth about myself,” Ashley said.

“And I recall pointing out how irrelevant it was to me,” replied Ethan.

“But you were curious,” Ashley said, smiling this time. “You said I thought of you as a monster; you are right. I have thought of you that way ever since you told me that you were the one who killed Lenora; the love of your life.”

Ethan kept facing away from her.

“But you see,” Ashley said. “Earlier today someone called me a monster too. And looking back, it wasn’t being called a monster that scared me. What I feared the most was—”

“Ending up like me,” Ethan finished and this time he turned and looked at Ashley.

Ashley had no other words to say to him. Ashley did fear she’d end up like Ethan but he was only half-right. Despite everything, Ethan had some qualities that Ashley had come to like. He always kept his word and always spoke the truth, and while he may not have noticed it; Ethan was quite a good listener. But there was one thing about him that she’d never wish upon anyone.

“Don’t worry, little mermaid,” Ethan said. He was so close to her that there was almost no space between them. He gazed straight into her eyes and said, “No matter how much of a monster you become, be rested assured that you will never end up like me.”

“How can you be so sure?” Ashley asked.

Ethan slowly stepped away from her and said, “In a few seconds you will find out.”

“Ashley!”

Turning behind, Ashley’s heart jumped when she saw Samantha waving at her. Next to Sam stood Sara who was trying to help Claire get past some of the metal beams that leaned on the building wall. But what made Ashley’s heart run faster was seeing Richard dressed in a black suit. His blonde hair was glowing as it stole the little shimmers of sunset light. It was after seeing Richard in his suit that Ashley realized just how beautiful the rest of her friends were. Samantha wore a dark-red velvet dress and red high-heeled shoes. Claire was in a cream-white dress and she wore a fluffy scuff to match it. Sara was in a black dress decorated with fine golden embroideries that were shining as bright as her smile.

When they all got to her, Samantha was the first one to speak.

“The next time you try finding a hiding spot please remember that one of your friends can track a human scent miles away.” Samantha gave Richard a gentle nudge.

“I am sorry Ashley,” Richard said, holding the back of his head with an embarrassment. “Sam here can be quite persuasive.”

Still lost for words, Ashley threw her gaze at the large transparent bag she was holding. Her eyes involuntarily widened slightly when she saw what was inside.

“Guys, is that?”

“Told you blue was her favorite color,” Samantha commented, wearing a proud look.

Sara then reached for something inside the bag, pulled out a small piece of white paper, and gave it to Ashley.

When Ashley read it her eyes began to blur as tears filled them.

Whatever it is that you are going through

Always remember...

You will never be alone

We love you,

Mom and Leah

The note read and drawn at the end was something Ashley never thought she’d ever see again. It was a symbol that her mother would always trace— using her finger— on Ashley’s palm before kissing her goodnight. She said it was something she and Ashley’s father came up with and it stood for ‘Eternal love’. The symbol was the famous heart shape but inside it was a spiral.

Ashley felt Sara wrap her arms around her and Samantha and Claire joined in the hug too. It was warm; this feeling in her heart, like a weight being lifted, was perhaps all she wanted all along. It was only after this that she realized that Ethan had already gone and she also understood the last words he had said to her before he left.

’No matter how much of a monster you become, you will never end up like me.”

So this is what he meant, Ashley thought.

With an arm around Samantha and the other hugging Claire, Ashley closed her eyes and found herself thinking about Ethan. When she said she feared becoming like him she meant she was afraid she would end up being alone.

But Ethan made her realize that she would never be alone. She had her friends and family who would always stand by her side no matter what.

Ashley slowly pulled away from the group hug and looked at Richard. With a smile, extended her arm and invited him over to join in. Richard was about to protest when Samantha quickly walked over to him, grabbed him by the arm, and dragged the fifty-thousand-year-old Fire Demon to Ashley. The girls bust into giggles and Richard blushed so hard Ashley felt a bit sorry for him. Ashley her left arm around him and Claire hugged him with her right one. They all formed a circle and Ashley couldn’t stop smiling.

“Hey! Why does Richard get all the fun?!”

Ashley saw Luke running towards them. He looked dashing in his black jacket, jeans, and a white untucked shirt. She was surprised that Robert wasn’t with him but still, she was glad to see him in his usual high spirits.

Luke quickly went for the spot between Claire and Sara.

“Guys, I know that not all of our friends are here but I want to do something,” Ashley softly said. “The future is uncertain and many things will try to separate us but today I was made to realize that you guys are not only my friends but my family too. I love all of you and thank you for being here for me.”

“We always will be,” Samantha said.

“I know,” Ashley said. “And that’s why.” Ashley went over to Samantha and held her hands. “Sam, you were my first true friend. I always knew I was different and I feared that side of me that wasn’t human. I wanted to be normal but you always pushed me to be my true self.”

“Your extraordinary true self,” Samantha finished and Ashley hugged her best friend and walked to Sara.

“Sara, I honestly don’t think that there is anyone quite like you. You have been through darkness— you carry darkness within you— and yet, you always have this special way of making other people smile. When I was at my lowest, you brought light and hope to my life and you accepted me for who I was. Thank you for being my friend.”

Smiling and with teary eyes, Sara made hand signs that said:

‘I should be the one thanking you. I always feared the dark power that resided within me but you showed me that I could use it to protect the ones I love.’

Sara threw her arms around Ashley and they both sobbed quietly.

Next, after wiping the tears from her face, Ashley went over to Claire and Luke. She held Luke’s hand with her right hand and Sara’s with her left.

“Luke, Claire, I honestly admire the bond you two share. You have always stood by each other and anyone can see how lucky the both of you are to have each other in your lives.”

“Luck might be a bit of a strong word. Seriously, you have no idea that things this girl has put me thr—”

Claire cut Luke off by landing an elbow in his gut.

“See what I mean?” Luke said, both his arms holding his abdomen.

Ashley laughed and said, “You are the perfect definition of friends and I am glad to have you in my life.” She helped Luke stand and hugged them both. As she pulled away, she whispered into both their ears and said, “And don’t you think it’s about time the two of you started dating already... geez.”

Luke and Claire’s faces became red and they faced away from each other embarrassed.

Finally, Ashley went to Richard. At first, she had many things to say but staring into his gorgeous blue eyes she forgot it all.

Richard was the first to speak.

“When I came here, I had made one decision; never form attachments with anyone. But Ashley, meeting you—” Richard then looked at everyone. “Meeting all of you changed all that. Despite knowing about all the horrible things I have done and despite knowing what I am, you all treat me as an equal and your friend. I see why Ashley cherishes all of you and while I was hesitant at first, I think now think of each one of you as a special friend.”

Ashley hugged Richard and rested her head on his chest. She knew she was in love with Adrian but Richard too would always have a place in her heart and in that moment she was not only trying to show that to him but to all her friends.

They all came together once again and formed a group hug with Ashley and Richard in the middle.

“Guys why I am enjoying the love that’s flowing around us right now, I think you girls need to get Ashley ready for the dance,” Luke said.

Everyone chuckled and slowly pulled away.

“Alright, we brought everything from cosmetics, to of course the dress and—” Samantha paused and quickly stared at Sara. “Sara, who was in charge of carrying her shoes.”

Sara pointed at Samantha and smiled. Samantha slapped her forehead.

“I can go get them,” Richard offered.

“Richard,” Samantha hugged him. “You are such a lifesaver. Alright, her shoes are in her room and since you’ve already been invited you shouldn’t face any problems.”

“I will be back before you know it,” Richard said and blurred away.

“Right... that takes care of one problem,” Samantha proudly said.

“A problem you created if I may add,” Ashley pointed out.

Samantha frowned and grabbed Ashley by the arm.

“Did I forget to mention that I was the one in charge of your makeup?” Samantha said, chuckling evilly.

Ashley gulped and smiled nervously as she walked with the rest of the girls. They went into the school building and led Ashley to the girl’s showers in the gym; for which Luke had a huge hand in acquiring the keys.

“Don’t take too long in there,” Samantha said, handing Ashley some soap, shampoo, and a towel.

Ashley only responded with a chuckle and walked into the shower.

After almost an hour of feeling like she was getting ready for a beauty pageant, Ashley, Samantha, Claire, and Sara walked out of the gym and all of them looked stunning. Ashley was wearing the dress she’d picked out from a store some days ago. It fitted her perfectly and sat on her skin feeling as soft as rose petals. Richard had arrived some time ago, just as Ashley finished showering and left her shoes with Samantha.

Ashley could hear some soft music beats and tunes playing when they reached the hallway, Ashley was met by several stares. Most of them were the usual ‘She’s probably gonna get me killed’ or ‘Better steer clear away from her’ looks but it seemed each one couldn’t help but admire her outfit.

The music became much clearer when they arrived at the entrance to the main hall. It seemed like the event had already started and waiting for them at the door was their date. There were four guys and Ashley only recognized Richard, Luke, and Oliver; a black, dark-haired guy who was on the swim team.

“I assume Ollie is your date,” Ashley whispered to Samantha as they approached the guys.

“He wanted to ask you out,” Samantha replied.

“What?”

“It’s true,” Claire cut in. “Turns out he has quite the crush on you. He thought he could work up the courage to tell you, now that Adrian’s out of town for a while. He even had a poem prepared for you and everything and told us ’When I win the gold medal in the swimming competition next year... I am gonna shout ‘Ashley, this is for you’’.”

“Hold on,” Ashley said, stopping the girls for a while. “Even if that’s true, there is no way he could have told you all this.”

Samantha began whistling suspiciously and Claire giggled.

“Did you guys force Richard to compel the poor guy?”

“I will take the blame for this one, Ashley”

Ashley was startled when he saw the guy she didn’t recognize at first. But that accent and the way he was around Sara.

“Spencer, is that you?” Ashley asked in a shocked voice.

“Body possession,” Spencer said, almost like a declaration. “It is a perk we Shape-shifting Vampires all have.”

Sara made hand signs telling Ashley not to worry and that the guy Spencer was possessing was someone in her Biology class.

“The poor lad didn’t have a date,” Spencer interrupted. “So I did him a solid and gave him the best date a guy can ever dream of... Though, Sara here had the condition that I only do so till the first dance was over, and no kissing after that. Body Possession has no major side effects on the host but just for future reference; it cannot be done during the day and if the host is killed so is the one possessing him. That’s why my little love here wants me out of this frail body asap.”

Spencer wrapped his arms around Sara’s waist and the two walked into the hall. Luke took Claire by the hand and Oliver went with Samantha; without even looking at Ashley.

“Yeah, he has been compelled to only think of Samantha tonight,” Richard suddenly said, causing Ashley’s heart to jump. “Samantha felt bad about everything and said that this would be her punishment. Turns out the person she wanted to ask to the dance isn’t going to be available.”

“Samantha wanted to ask someone to the dance?” Ashley asked in a confused tone.

“All she said was that right now he is in a place where she can’t reach him,” Richard replied and extended his arm. “I am hoping that’s not the case with you, milady.”

“I doubt there is a place on earth— or any realm— where you cannot reach me, milord,” Ashley said and took his hand.

When they walked into the hall, everything was vibrant. The music, the blue and white lights, and everyone were in their best clothes. It wasn’t long after Ashley and Richard had entered that Principal Deckard walked to the stage. There was cheering and clapping when he walked side by side with his wife; Mary Deckard, who was a well-known philanthropist and an active advocate for the protection and conservation of Ravenhill’s natural forest and sites.

“Welcome,” Principal Deckard said through the microphone. “Most of you have heard me tell this story many times. But every time I tell it to you, I always welcome new faces to our school and I sadly have to say goodbye to those who graduate and go further in life. The story of Nicholas and Nora Ravenhill is a legend in our town. Two lovers whose love shined a light in one of the darkest times of this city; the Salem Witch trials. Legend has it that Nicholas was from a worthy and highly esteemed family and Nora was a servant in their household. Nicholas fell in love with the young maiden and when threatened that he would lose his entire inheritance if he chooses to be with her, he left his home just for her. However, the Raven family wasn’t one to take no for an answer. On baseless grounds, they hired a corrupt priest who accused Nora of being a witch. She was sentenced to be publicly burnt at the stake and when the time came, Nicholas, arrived and saved her; suffering fatal burns.”

Principal Deckard paused and Ashley, as always, was astonished at how everyone was attentive whenever he or his wife spoke.

“But even while injured, on the run from the authorities, Nicholas never let go of Nora’s hand,” Mrs. Deckard spoke. “That night, they run through the forest and came across a large clearing. The authorities caught up with them and even when all hope seemed lost— even when Nora tried to offer herself to save him— Nicholas said words that she would soon never forget.”

Ashley mouthed these words as Mrs. Deckard said them...

‘Love is neither too weak nor too cruel to not give us our happy ending’

“But then, as their enemies approached, a large crowd came out of the woods. They were all in masks, playing music, dancing, and making merry. Confused, the authorities lost Nicholas and Nora in the crowd and they didn’t realize then that half the town who witnessed Nicholas’ bravery had come out to save them both.”

“From that day, no one heard from Nicholas and Nora. Many assumed Nicholas had died from the fatal wounds he’d sustained to save Nora but it was only after twenty-five years had passed that we get the ending to our story when a young businessman came to town and went over to the Raven household, which was now on the verge of collapse after their many corruption scandals had been revealed. The young man walked into Raven Manor and offered to buy all their wealth at triple the price it was worth. When asked what his name was he said proudly... ’Nicholas Ravenhill, the son of Nicholas Raven and Nora Hill, who is now...”

“The Ravenhills!!!” Everybody exclaimed and claps resounded throughout the hall.

“The dance that took place on the night that Nicholas and Nora escaped... It is said to have taken place on this very ground on which you people stand. The Dance of Divine Truth; symbolizes truth, justice, and of course love. Qualities that we as Ravenhill High and as citizens of Ravenhill town should spread wherever we go”

People wearing masquerade masks began to walk through the crowd; handing masks to everyone. Ashley picked one with a fish scale design and Richard chose the one with flames inscribed on it.

They smiled at each other and heard Principal Deckard begin to speak.

“As per tradition, today is also a day we honor not only an outstanding student but also an outstanding citizen.” A trophy covered with an opaque material was brought to Principal Deckard. Everyone knew it was made of glass and an atmosphere of anticipation filled the room as everyone wondered who would receive this year’s prize. Ashley, sure it wouldn’t be here; her grades were good but not that good, and to receive the award you had to be an active member of society— something Ashley was not.

“I wonder who it’s going to be this year,” Principal Deckard said and cleared his throat. “And now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for. The 2019 Ravenhill Award of Excellence goes to...” Principal Deckard paused to build up suspense, unsealed the trophy, and shouted the name, “Mila Grainger!”

Never had Ashley screamed with so much joy in her life. Everyone was shouting her name and even Richard was yelling at the top of his voice. While clapping and cheering, Ashley searched the room for Mila, only to see her being carried on the shoulders of two huge guys from the football team. The applause continued and became even louder when she was laid down gently on the stage and received a hug from both Principal Deckard and his wife. Mila’s eyes were in tears when she looked at Ashley and smiled. Ashley too found that her tears were stinging with tears.

“Mila,” Mrs. Deckard said, handing the trophy to her. “You have shown strength, unlike anyone I have ever seen. Not only have you broken the student academic records with your outstanding grades, but you also work tirelessly with charities, and activists with worthy causes and have been a great help in the preservation of many of our historical sites and keep our streets safe by constantly making sure each street has streetlights. You, Mila Grainger, deserve this award and I am sure everyone agrees. Would you like to say anything dear?”

Mila held the microphone and said, “Not to be a spoilsport, but may I ask you guys to help me observe a short moment of silence in honor of my sister Alex?”

Everyone, including Ashley and Richard, bowed their heads slightly and Ashley closed her eyes, trying to picture the proud smile Alex would have had if she were with them.

“Thank you,” Mila said. “I never have had many words to say. I guess it runs in the family.” Many in the room laughed and Mila said, “I have only one thing to say to you guys today.”

Ashley’s jaw dropped in astonishment when Mila did what she did. After putting the microphone on the ground, she threw and held her fist in the air while keeping her head bowed toward everyone. Some of the people near Ashley burst into tears when they saw this and Ashley too cupped her mouth hard and doing everything in her power to hold back her cries. Mila was doing Alex’s victory pose.

‘Why do I bow my head towards people? Hmmm... Aren’t they the reason I want to win?’

Those were words Ashley once heard Alex say to her. Mila had grown these past few weeks Ashley thought. Not only would she follow in her sister’s footsteps but she would one day find her path.

When Mila left the stage she was greeted with many hugs.

Soft music began to play, the lights became dimmer and Ashley smiled when Richard extended her hand to her.

“You do know that this is gonna be a mixer dance right?” Ashley said, wearing her mask and keeping her smile.

“Then all I have to do is stay close to you,” Richard said, holding Ashley by the waist and they began to move with the music. Richard’s moves were smooth and fluid; well, he did have fifty millennia of practice Ashley thought and chuckled privately.

Richard elegantly led Ashley into a turn and she found herself dancing with Mila. Richard probably did this on purpose.

“Congratulations, Mila,” Ashley said.

“Thank you,” Mila said, resting her hands on Ashley’s shoulder while Ashley held her by the waist. “I never thought, I would do that in front of everyone. I see, why Alex loved doing it. It wasn’t for herself; it was for everyone.”

“Yep,” Ashley agreed. “And I have a feeling you are gonna be doing plenty of those from now on.”

Mila chuckled, “You are the weirdest rival ever you that?”

“You are still going about that I see,” Ashley smiled. “Fine then. From now on, we are eternal rivals and most of all...” Ashley led Mila into a double turn, hugged her, and said, “We are eternal sisters.”

Mila was taken by another person and before Ashley could even search for Richard, she felt a hand gently hold her. She tried to turn but her new partner made her turn and spin in such a way that it felt as though she was floating in the air. Her heart began racing. Her partner caught her by the waist from behind and when Ashley tried to turn again, he gracefully moved so that he was behind her. Ashley held both his hand even though she couldn’t see him. She was led into a triple turn and she caught a glimpse of him following her.

Something came over her as they danced; a feeling, unlike anything she’d ever felt before. Her partner was in complete control. His moves were extraordinary and Ashley knew that if she didn’t do something, she’d probably never see him.

So when he made her turn, Ashley purposefully let her body fall to the ground. She watched as the ceiling drew further away and that was when he came to her.

He held her hand and waist and gracefully balanced her right before her back hit the floor. His mask was as red as his coat, trousers, and boots. His long silky hair followed his movements as he raised Ashley to stand. The music became even slower and this time Ashley was the one who wrapped her arms around his neck and he held her by the waist.

“That was quite the gamble... How were you so sure I’d catch you?” he asked.

A smile crossed Ashley’s face and she replied saying, “Because despite everything... I still believe the Chimera is quite the gentleman. That said, I also know he isn’t here just to dance with me.”

Ethan’s narrowed and his lips curved into a devious smirk.

“I’d be careful with the assumptions you make about me if I were you,” he said. “My advice is that you stick to what you already know.”

Following the music, Ashley slid her hand over Ethan’s shoulder, down his arm, and interlocked her fingers with his. That night she learned that Ethan was also a good actor because under normal circumstances she doubted if he’d ever let anyone get this close to him. He held her hand as she bent backward and pulled her to him, almost closing all the space between them.

“Ethan,” she said. “You will soon come to realize that I am that most open-minded person you will ever come across.” She looked into his eyes. “And regardless of what you say or think of yourself... I believe there is still light in you.”

Ashley was hoping to get some kind of emotional response from him and she felt disappointed when he changed the topic and said, “Have you decided on my offer?”

“And what is that you’re offering by asking me to come with you to the Underworld?”

“Have you already forgotten what I told you?” said Ethan.

The slow music stopped playing and everyone stopped dancing and began to mingle with one another.

“You said that the Underworld holds the key to something I have been missing in my life,” Ashley said, removing her mask. “What is it?”

“Something not worth placing your trust in him.”

Ashley was startled when heard Richard voice. He was standing next to her and she saw Luke, Claire, Samantha, and Sara coming over. They all stood and faced Ethan.

“Can we take this conversation outside before we draw any unnecessary attention?” Richard said to Ethan.

“Lead the way,” Ethan replied.

They walked to the school grounds near the forest and Richard began to speak.

“There is no way I am letting Ashley go anywhere with you; especially not to the Underworld,” he said.

“I was unaware it was a decision you could make for her,” said Ethan.

“Wait,” Luke said. “What’s all this talk about the Underworld?”

“Ashley, what’s going on?” Samantha whispered to her.

Ashley’s mind was so confused right now she hardly had any chance to think.

“The Underworld is a realm only for the dead. Do you plan on taking Ashley’s life,” Richard stated, fiercely staring at Ethan. While Ashley understood his anger, she never liked how Richard became when Ethan was around.

“The little mermaid is more valuable to me alive than dead,” Ethan said. “However, if she chooses to accept my offer she will have to experience a temporary state of death. You are a right little brother, only the dead can enter that realm; specifically their spirits.” Ethan then looked at Ashley and said, “There are many realms of the dead but all who ever died have to pass through the Underworld.”

Ashley’s eyes widened and her mouth opened slightly. She finally understood what Ethan was offering. ‘Something you have been missing in your life’ Ashley’s heart was beating so hard and despite having already shed tears many times, her eyes felt wet. Ethan never lied she thought to herself and he would never lie about this.

“Ashley? What’s wrong?” Samantha asked, holding Ashley by the shoulder.

“The Underworld might be a place of great darkness,” Ethan said, walking towards Ashley. “But for our little mermaid, it might just give her the closure that she may or may have not realized she needed.”

“Ethan, please say it,” Ashley sobbed. “I believe you but for some reason, I just want to hear you say the words.”

Taking off his masquerade mask, Ethan looked her straight in the eyes and said, “Come with me to the Underworld, little mermaid. And there you will finally find out whether or not your father is still alive.”