Chapter 5
After an informative meeting with my counselor I leave school and head back to my father's home to process all that we shared. Driving through the winding roads leading down the hill where the school is located, I thought about Bash and Lance. Before I know it I am home. I park the car and take a deep breath clearing my mind. I walk up the red brick stairs onto the porch. Before placing the key into the lock, a smiling Amelia opens the door. "How was your meeting at school, have you chosen a major, perhaps something working with people? With all your talents you would do great with a position helping others," she adds eagerly.
"It was great, I have decided to major in psychology, and the counselor helped me narrow down a list of classes that will have me on the right track," I respond before taking a step in.
"Oh, I'm sorry, look at me not even letting you step a foot in the house before bombarding you with questions. Forgive my excitement." Amelia smiles with approval and leads me to the kitchen where a snack is waiting. The way she handles me reminds me so much of Grams. She is attentive and loves to make sure you are taken care of in every way. After my snack I walk upstairs, locking the door and enter my closet to begin my research. I need to know more about Bash and Lance to fully understand what I might encounter dealing with a Demon and Vampire. Rummaging through the library supply given to me by my grandmother, I find a supernatural encyclopedia containing information on both beings. The array of different Demons is astounding and research becomes difficult. What I am finding most peculiar is there is little to no information on which type of Demon is Bash. I begin chanting a protection spell. It is all too common for intruders to come through while working on research. Your mind is elsewhere and detection skills become minimized. Say the wrong words and you could end up with a party of hasty heathens on your hands.
Great Goddess of the Elements
protect me and all that I see
from those who value debacle and lack benevolence
A soft blue glow emanates around my altar assuring me the incantation has taken affect. The Goddess spell although short lived is quite powerful. No one can penetrate my circle unless I invite them in or step out of the circle myself. Grams also taught me that the spell serves as a visual and audio barrier. Should someone enter my room looking for me, all they would see is an empty bedroom. I am protected from exposure by avoiding discovery. A warm feeling of security engulfs me as I recall the lesson Grams taught me the day I first put this spell into play. I miss her terribly and vow to call her once I am done with research.
I light candles around the altar, placing the book on Demons in the center of my circle, and pup my hands over the closed books. I close my eyes and envision the lethal beast in all his gorgeousness to further guide my paranormal abilities. Magic courses through my veins and powerful winds whip through my hair. A sense of calm consumes me and as the winds die down. I open my eyes to a picture of him in both his human and Demon form. Sebastian Cortes Prince of the Underworld, a powerful Demon who has each of the most common abilities of every level Demon. Additionally, he can control the mind and hinder the use of an opponent's power. I read on to learn more about his family and the abilities each possess. One common trend throughout his family tree was that each Demon married a witch, each more powerful than the last. That would explain the increase in power and skill throughout generations. I thought about this for a moment and my mouth dropped as the proverbial light bulb turned on and I realize what Bash may want from me. In my dream he told me I would need to dig deeper, especially if I were to be Queen. I am starting to think he means his Queen. There is no way I would become Queen of the underworld, leave this world, or marry Bash.
Preparing to shut the book I notice a blurb referencing another page containing a family tree. Combing through the pages I find Bash's family tree. I gasp at the sight of his third uncle. It was my father and alongside him was my mother. I couldn't believe he was my cousin, twice removed! My thoughts immediately went to Grams, I wonder how much she knew about my father's family.
Glancing at the time on the cable box, I close the book, put my supplies away, and head downstairs for dinner. Approaching the dining room I notice there are place settings for three. Tonight just may be the night I lay all the cards on the table. I never realized how bitter I was about all the time spent apart from my father, but now that the fates have forced us together a little more effort on his part is necessary. Not sure whether or not to sit down, I walk toward the kitchen to find Amelia. I pause at the door at the sound of Amelia and my father's voices.
"Oh, you have to give it to them straight. If they want your protection they must listen and take your advice. They cannot expect you to watch over everyone and not play their part by refusing to take necessary precautions," Amelia said sternly.
"You're right, Ems but I cannot force them to concede to my way either.
Ems, eh?
"This is why I really think you should talk to Maddie about her position. They may not entirely listen to you but they most definitely won't defy her. She is after all their Queen by birthright," Amelia urged on.
"No, she's not ready. I have to give her chance to get settled in and get situated with school before adding even more responsibilities. I'll handle the groups as I've done all these years. I must work something out, especially now that Madeline is here. She will need my guidance and guard as every supernatural force within a 1,000 mile radius will be drawn to her." My father's concern for my well-being was a happy surprise. Grams had warned me the area was consumed with those from different paranormal backgrounds, but what my father was describing made it seem like I would be a busy beaver. I was certain that was the end of the discussion, so I took a step back from the door and pushed it open with force make sure to make some noise.
"Good evening," I said loud and eagerly trying my best to cover up the fact that I was eavesdropping. Amelia gave me a smirk as she put the finishing touches on a salad.
"Madeline, good evening. I am sorry I've been so busy. I had pressing matters to attend to." My father's tone was more dismissing than apologetic, but I guess that it is as good as it gets with the great Xavier Calderon.
"I am sure your business is more pressing," I reply with a hint of annoyance. "I am hoping to continue last night's conversation."
"Why don't the two of you head into the dining room," Amelia said sweetly. "I will bring in dinner and the three of us can catch up." Amelia ushers the two of us out the kitchen and my father and I go into the dining room. After taking his seat at the head of the table I take the one to his left. I had not noticed initially but the place settings were a fusion of Asian and Goth styles. The napkins are a deep blue and are neatly tied together with serpent ring holders. My father's eyes were on everything but me. Clearly he did not want to tell me anymore. I decide to open the lines of communication.
"So as a high ranking Demon in this town, which types of entities do you have the most experience with?" My father clearly found my nonchalant approach to the topic amusing as one eyebrow went up along with the appearance of a smirk. Taking this moment of silence, I scrutinize my father's appearance in the hopes of not finding any resemblances. The truth of the matter is he is a handsome man with brown curly hair, which he keeps short and well groomed. The physical similarities between us could not be denied. We both share the same blue/gray eyes, high cheek bones, complimented by dimples with a more prominent one on the left when we smile.
"I figured I couldn't dodge your questions for too long. I see your grandmother taught you how to sense the type of supes (as you call them) around you. Have you figured out what Amelia is?"
Quickly answering in the hopes of appearing knowledgeable I said, "she's a shifter, obviously." My father smiled at how sure I sounded, and before he could say anything, I quickly added, "And a seer."
"Her job here is not only to maintain the house, but also to advise me with various
supernatural law enforcement situations. She has also fought alongside me when I needed."
"And when you deem me ready, she will advise and work alongside me?" I ask mostly for shock value. The look of shock on my father's face made me smile even more. I knew the comment is basically an admission to listening in on his conversation with Amelia, but its time he stopped treating me like a child.
I know Amelia's position in this family was more than what they originally told me, just as I am sure they are involved romantically. It was not until now that I realized she would be around to advise me and future generations. If there are future generations. I wonder if she would be opposed to moving to the realm below. I wince as I gave myself a mental slap, here I am already contemplating life as Queen of the underworld.
Focusing back on yesterday's topics I say, "Tell me more about our family." My father looks almost hesitant to share. I think he is still trying to getting a grip on the fact that I know more than he thought. This of course made me even more eager to learn. My main goal is to get to the topic of Bash while finding out about my powers and their potential. My father clears his throat and takes a sip of brandy.
"The Calderons come from a long line of Demons. Our lineage is said to begin with the signing of a contract between a great leader and Satan himself." The hint of pride in his voice could not be denied. It is apparent that this event in the family's history holds great significance. "The leader aided a flourishing nation by organizing the rebellion against Spain, slavery, and establishing a level of independence."
"Making deals with evil despite the best of intentions, has consequences. What happened to this great man after signing the contract?" I ask.
My father's eyes become dark, and he givse me an eerie look as he prepares to respond, "Perhaps that is a story best left for another day. Besides it has nothing to do with you." Eager to change the subject, he says, "There is a number of low-level Demons living in the area. But I have had the most trouble with the high-level ones that live just outside of town. Can you tell the difference between witches, Vampires, and humans? It is more of a challenge with these beings because their auras are similar." His parenting tone would probably seem endearing to most, but all he makes me want to do is stick my fingers in my ear and sing "la la la la." "Maddie!" My father says slamming his hand on the table.
"Yes I hear you, and yes it's a skill Grams placed a great deal of importance on." For instance I know that although you were born with Demon blood, you are also a vampire. When and who turned you?"
"Very good, you must keep practicing especially living here." My father said with more of a commanding than loving voice. "I was not turned, your grandmother was half vampire."
"Why are you so sure the supernatural beings in the area will be so drawn to me?" It was now time to get to the point. I needed to know what I was up against and why I am in this situation in the first place.
His look of defeat made me feel guilty but I know these were necessary measures. "I know that you are the most powerful witch of the century because of your mixed bloodline, but if that even has a bearing on the situation I do not know." I will do everything in my power to protect you, but you must listen and take my advice." If anyone new approaches you and gives any inkling that they are supernatural, you must let me know." I will do a thorough background check and work to figure out their main goal." I hold an internal debate on whether or not I should tell him about Lance and Bash. Ultimately I had done quite well investigating both and hopefully an opportunity to hang out with each more will help solve the mystery. I decide it is best to wait it out.
"It was only my first day and I haven't actually started classes yet, but I'll keep you posted."
Certain she was listening and waiting for the right time to enter, Amelia comes in the dining room with a tray of salmon surrounded by steamed asparagus. She places the tray down and heads back to the kitchen, returning with a bowl of garlic mashed potatoes and corn. If this were not enough she once again made the trip returning with a tossed salad. "Dinner looks delicious, thank you," I say graciously.
"I hope you enjoy my dear." Amelia smiles, "So tell us, what was your childhood like?"
"Well, Grams tried to make it as normal as possible, but with my powers maturing at such a young age it was difficult to be a kid. Control was the first lesson she taught me. Grams would hide my favorite doll and watch as my emotions would get the best of me. I would destroy rooms throughout the house looking for it. And when other children would tease me I would make them float to the tops of trees and keep them up there until they cried. One day I noticed her watching me and realized they were tests. She told me the importance of secrecy in avoiding persecution and ridicule. I always wondered how I never got in trouble. As I got older I realized Grams must have been intervening. Although she was tough on me, she was equally caring. I continued to practice until I learned to use my powers to solve problems instead of causing more. The next time she hid my doll I focused my energy on locating her. I imagined the outfit she wore, the color of her hair, and what it felt like to carry her. And in my mind I could visualize the room she was in and where I would find her. It was almost like I was in the room with her," I said lost in my memory. I look up and notice Amelia and my father were looking at each other with shock written all over their face.
Amelia turns toward me and asks, "Maddie, how old were you?" I put my head down trying to pinpoint time. "I was almost eight, I said meekly."
Amelia took a breath, looking at my father, "Xavier, it is time, she is much more powerful than we were expecting. She needs to know the truth and the decisions that lie ahead. Repeating the past has just resulted in the same outcome, it is time to change the course of events. I think she is strong enough to save herself to stop the wheel from turning in the wrong direction."
"What do you mean the course of events, what wheel?" I am so confused and my head began to spin. "Father what do you know of my power, and the decision I will need to make."
My father cleans his hands and mouth and rises from his seat. "Follow me, there is much you need to know and although most you must learn on your own, I will share what I can." We leave the dining room and head into the library. I feel bad about leaving all the dishes with Amelia but I need to know more about what I am facing.
My father slides back double wood doors and exposes a massive three story library equipped with a spiraling staircase. We begin the trek up the stairs and as we pass the third railing I begin to wonder where we are going. When we get to the end I stood behind my father wondering what next? "The door to dream, to the unforeseen, transport with a gleam." Expecting him to repeat his enchantment two more times I am shocked to see a purple, glowing door appear at the very edge of the staircase. "Take my hand," my father says. I grab his hand and am dragged into a wind tunnel. The spinning felt like it would never end, and just as I begin to feel nauseous it stops and we were in a cave.
Sharp, crystals of ice line the walls and in the center of the cave is a pulpit. "Watch your step, Madeline," my father warns.
"Will do," I said as I carefully stepped from one small glacier to the next. Once reaching the pulpit, I see a large book resting on top. The cover is nothing I have ever seen before. The binding looks textured and made of a smooth cloth. As I take a closer look I notice the center has what appears to be an eyelid. I gave my father a perplexed look and stare longer at the book waiting patiently to find out what was inside. "This book holds the history of your family and prophecies about your future. You are the key to waking it up," he says ushering me along.
"And how exactly am I do that?" I ask. Once it becomes apparent waiting for an answer is fruitless, I take another step closer to the book. The connection I feel is uncanny. There is a sense of ownership and belonging tied to the literature. I raise my hand and waive it over the cover. The eyelid begins to blink until the eye is completely exposed.
&n
bsp; "Well if it isn't the fair Princess." The book says with a slithering tone. "The answers that you seek won't be found within the bind, but instead it's the light that will lead the way."
"Great something else that talks in a riddle. That is going to be so helpful. The truth is book, all I need to know is what "greatness" lies within me." I say while emphasizing greatness with air quotations.
"Greatness just like beauty is in the eye of the beholder. You will be great, Princess, if you choose to be so."
"That was really helpful. And why do you keep referring to me as Princess. Unless there is some secret birth rite my parents have conveniently forgot to share over the past 18 years of my life." I said questioningly while glancing back at my father. I already know from my dreams and from conversations in passing about my birthright.
"Cortes, although she knows quite a bit, would you care to shed some more light on the subject for your daughter?" So it seems this book could read me quite well. I start wondering if the book contains information about Bash and Lance.
"Which to choose, which to choose, the devilish prince, or gallant vampire."
Unable to contain the shock, I ask, "who are you talking about?"
"I thought you hadn't met anyone yet?" My father asks in his best authoritative voice.
Fighting the uncontrollable response to blush, I quickly decide to turn the tables. "I guess keeping secrets runs in the family. Is there something you need to tell me about my mother's disappearance, what you know about my fate, or the leadership position I am supposed to take on?" The stare down begins and quickly fizzle as we both know it will get us nowhere. Hoping to get some answers, I share with my father my experience with Lance as well as with Bash. As I finish describing my dreams and the not so coincidental meeting at school my father looks over at the book with a degree of exasperation.
"It's getting late, we should start heading back to the house," said my father. Avoidance is clearly a big thing in this family. I look at the book with a reluctance to leave it behind.
"I am yours Princess, however, you must place me back in this realm when it is time for me to move on to the next generation." "Next generation? Whoa, slow down there!" I think to myself. I climb on a rock and grab onto the book. My father and I head toward the mouth of the cave and through the door.
Once again at the top of the three story staircase, I ask, "Does Amelia know about this?"
"She has been a loyal companion for a number of years, naturally I would confide in her." I have the impression my father did not want to elaborate further but the curiosity is burning inside me. Is there more between the two of them? Not that it matters my mother has been gone for years, but I wish he would confide in me. Once we arrive at the bottom of the stairs he begins probing me for more information on Lance and Bash, but unfortunately I barely know myself. After telling him as much, book and I head to my room, where I begin to read about my family lineage and the powers that each generation possess.