From Unofficial Handbook of the Virtue Universe

Continued from (kind of) Metamorphosis: Manipura. (That's right. I stuck my prelude in the middle of it all. I also used what some may consider non-canon fairies, imaginary geography, and some ambiguous history. It's fiction. Deal with it. Writer's notes for each section will be posted in the discussion section for the curious and bored. As always, feedback is welcome - please leave it in the Discussion section, as well.)

Contents 1 Prelude 1.1 1st Section 1.2 2nd Section 1.3 3rd Section 1.4 4th Section 1.5 5th Section 1.6 6th Section 1.7 7th Section 1.8 8th Section 1.9 9th section 1.10 10th Section 1.11 11th Section 1.12 12th Section 2 Epilogue

Prelude

The coin tumbled, tracing a familiar path.
The power responded, returning the way had come once upon a time...

1st Section

The End April 17, 1992 - Part A

Once upon a time...

The song echoed oddly in the warped acoustics of the cave.

“To you, the wind sings...”
Nine years. A drop in the ocean of his lifespan. How did they manage to be so full?

“With you, the stars dream...”
They were both looking at the child who had filled those years. Every moment a joy.

“Tomorrow will be soon enough...”
They looked at each other. No words were needed.

“To try your wings...”
The song was almost done. The power hidden in the music was set. No matter what, the child would be safe.

“So sleep, child, sleep.”

“Be happy,” he whispered.

April 22 1988 - Part A

Once upon a time...

“She’s happy,” she said dryly to her husband. Her amused understatement was punctuated by the piercing squeals of their daughter.

“Horsey! Horsey!! Horsey!!! Mommy, Daddy – HORSEY!”

The black pigtails she wore were almost a blur as she excitedly hopped up and down.

“You spoil her,” his wife commented, although she was having as much fun watching the child as he was.

They listened to her shouts and delighted giggles and smiled at one another. Every sound she made was music to their ears. The wait for that first breath - that first note - still lingered five years later.

April 22 1983 - Part A

Once upon a time...

Waiting... Waiting... Waiting... Nothing was as agonizing as the wait.
And then...
The baby let out a wail. Joyful, they called out her name...

August 1982 - Part A

Once upon a time...

“Kina.”

His wife’s voice was so soft, Kyle was not certain she had said something. He looked at Rachael questioningly. She was staring at the patches of paint on the wall but her amber eyes were seeing something else. The joy at discovering she was pregnant had been cut short by the death of her grandmother. She had not even been able to go to the funeral and grieve properly with her sisters. At least they had parted on good terms, the last time they had been together.

1979 - Part A

Once upon a time...

The most formidable foe he had ever faced sat before him. Old and cunning, and holding a terrible advantage over Kyle – possessing something Kyle wanted, no matter the cost. They held each other’s gaze, each testing the other’s willpower and probing for any weakness. At last, his foe gave a long exhale, almost more of a hiss, and spoke.

“You wish to marry this... this filth?”

The scornful words were directed not at Kyle, but to the young girl standing hand-in-hand with him. She glanced up at Kyle with a worried face, afraid he would take offence. He just smiled at her and squeezed her hand gently. Though his appearance suggested a young man in his late 20s, he had lived far longer then that; too long to be baited so easily.

“Kyle is not trash! I love him and I will marry him.”

Rachael Sarah Lynnley, on the other hand, was as young as she looked and could not let this insult pass. Her normally sweet voice bristled with indignant outrage. She tossed her long amber locks of hair over her shoulder and her warm brown eyes blazed in defiance. At 18 and a half years of age, she possessed the self-confidence of a youth that believes they know everything. In her case, that was actually not far from the truth...

“Will you now?”

Ice to Rachael’s fire, the words were delivered cool and measured. Like a queen on her throne, Margaret Rose Lynnley sat straight and proud in her old, high-backed oak chair. The matriarch of the Lynnley family was flanked on each side by her other two granddaughters – a ruler with her loyal attendants. Emily alternated between fussing with her recently permed tresses and fidgeting with her gaudy engagement ring. Jane, her hair swept neatly up and out of the way, stood tall and straighter then normal, as through trying to make up for both Emily’s and Rachael’s less than ladylike behavior. Both of the older sisters were attempting to fix the same steely gaze on Kyle as their grandmother, although they lacked the presence to create the same effect. Kyle and Rachael ignored them completely; Grandmother Lynnley was the one who mattered.

At 54 years of age, Margaret Lynnley, recently widowed under odd circumstances, also lost her only child and his wife in a car accident. Her son left behind three young daughters, from the six year old Jane down to the not quite one year old Rachael. She took in the three girls, though others offered to fulfill their roles of godparents in light of the daunting task that would surely face a widowed woman of her age saddled with such young children. Margaret would have nothing of that, however, and used her wealth and influence to quickly bring the three girls under her guardianship, moving them in with her to Tokkec’s Valley. Only a select few of a certain Institute fully understood her reasoning. Like Margaret, they suspected the particulars surrounding the fatal car crash. They also knew of the special protection provided by the valley; after all, they had been the ones to help Margaret safely reach Tokkec’s Valley.

Under the strict and proper guidance of their grandmother, the three girls grew into the young ladies present in the room now. While Jane and Emily were often described in their childhood as little versions of Margaret, Rachael was usually called the wild child. Free in expressing her emotions and bold in her speech, she was the only one of the three who would ever think of challenging Grandmother Lynnley. Despite this contrary streak, though, she had a sunny disposition that could win over all but the most hard-hearted. Jane and Emily could not help spoiling their cheerful younger sister although they might occasionally be mortified by some of her actions.

Grandmother Lynnley looked at the girl standing before her today and sighed inwardly. Though the older girls were the ones compared with her now, Rachael was very much as Margaret had been in her younger days. She had inherited more then just her grandmother’s personality, though, and therein lay Margaret’s current dilemma. Her eyes turned to the young man calmly standing next to Rachael. Despite the dampening effect of the valley, she could see his true nature shining like the noon sun overhead. She held his eyes with her own, daring him to deny it. He returned her gaze without flinching - a feat so few had ever accomplished. She smiled thinly and, changing tactics, gave an irritated wave of her hand indicating a couch.

“You’re going to give an old lady a permanent crick in her neck if you keep standing like that.”

“I dare say you are not so frail as that,” Kyle answered smoothly as he took a seat next to Rachael.

“Perhaps. And yet, my time is fast approaching.” She gave another irritated wave, this time to silence the protests of her granddaughters. “My time is approaching and I must see to the well-being of these girls. A marriage to you can only result in danger to her.”

Kyle just quirked a brow at this. “Is that the prophecy of the Oracle, or do you merely doubt my ability to protect her?”

Margaret could feel the two girls beside her stiffen from both indignity at the perceived insult and shock that this knew. Silly chits, given who he and Rachael work with, of course he knows. She did not bother voicing this, though, and continued her attack.

“Can you protect her? Her greatest protection comes from staying here in the valley, but that is not an option for you, is it faerie?” She practically spat the last word out, bitter memories lending poison to her speech.

“Grandmother!” Rachael leapt up, her fists balled as though she were going to hit someone. Jane and Emily exchanged glances, uncertain of Grandmother Lynnley’s words. Perhaps the shock of Rachael’s announcement was too much for her. Emily gave a nervous laugh. “Fairies? Really, now Grandmother...” She stopped as Margaret turned and pinned her with her gaze.

“Yes, faeries. They’re as real as you and I, child. I’ve told you before that many old stories and legends have their basis in truth, have I not? However, these creatures are not all flowers and sweetness and that other tripe that modern culture portrays them as. No, they are dangerous creatures of the time of Old Magic.” She turned her attention back to Kyle, who had managed to calm Rachael enough that she was sitting again, though her fists were still clenched. “They were responsible for the death of my husband, and, in all likelihood, my son,” Margaret said, quietly. The words sunk in, and Jane and Emily turned their own accusing glares to Kyle.

“That’s not Kyle’s fault!”

“Rach...”

“No. No, I won’t just sit here and let them say whatever they want about you!” She rounded on her family, conviction fueling her passionate defense. “Do you mistrust the Institute, Grandmother, despite all they’ve done? Do you think they’d bring in someone who’d do such awful things?”

“You shouldn’t raise your voice to Grandmother, so,” Jane murmured.

“I’ll speak as I please to her!”

“But Rachael, he’s... he’s not human. What’ll everyone think?” Emily gave her little sister a pleading look, but her words only infuriated the younger girl even more.

“Who cares what anyone thinks? Who’s going to know, anyways? You didn’t, until Grandmother said something. And Kyle may not be human, but he’s the kindest and sweetest man I know!” She took a deep breath to continue and Kyle took that opportunity to speak before his beloved said something she would regret.

“I am truly sorry for your loss. Faerie you name me, and you name me correctly; yet, you name me wrongly, too. The ones who are responsible for your husband’s death, the ones who harmed my human parents-” Margaret raised a brow at that “–those are dangerous beings, as you say. I do know from the Institute’s records, though, that there were fae who fought to aid the young Oracle, as well.”

“You say I name you wrongly, Changeling...”

“I gave up my wings long ago.”

Ah. That explained how he had been able to enter the valley. Tokkec’s Valley seemed like just another arid town in southern California, but it had a unique feature, unknown to most of its residents. The land was a pocket of anti-magic. Not only was it devoid of power, the valley actively muted any magics that came within its boundaries. Margaret had been hidden away here many years ago. Old Magic of a different sort then that of the fae ran strong in her family and she had inherited incredible powers of foresight. Even after moving to the valley, her powers still worked to an extent, although they no longer acted as a beacon to those who sought to control such powers. It was, perhaps, because of the valley’s effect and the strength of the Old Magic tied to her blood that her life span had shortened. Creatures whose existence relied on magic had trouble entering the valley – those created by magic would dissolve upon crossing the boundary. The fact that this man had willingly come here, spending the better part of the day without indicating any discomfort spoke volumes. Still...

“Will you abide here in the valley, if I consent?”

Jane and Emily’s stifled gasps of shock at this turned to contemptuous snorts with Kyle’s answer.

“I will not.”

“Grandmother, you know there’s no way he could.” The anger in Rachael’s voice was replaced by exasperation. Kyle resisted the urge to look at her. In the year and a half since they had met, he had learned that this change in tone meant she was confident she was winning her argument and losing patience with her opponent for not realizing this soon enough. Rachael apparently detected some change in her grandmother’s stance that Kyle could not see.

The elder woman ignored her granddaughter’s remarks and pressed on with Kyle.

“Yet, this valley offers her the best protection. Though the bloodline has been diluted and her abilities are far less than mine, she still carries a power for which many would kill. The valley has suppressed this power over these years, but there’s no guarantee it won’t begin to grow once she removes herself from the valley.”

“That may be true now, but there is no assurance that the valley’s protections will continue to hold. Even now, one such as myself can enter and would only need a short time here to do harm. Suppose the valley’s barrier is breached? I will be incapacitated by an extended stay here, you say you will be gone, and the valley does nothing to aid her. Where, then, is her protection?”

“Besides,” Rachael interjected, “it’s not like we’ll be on our own. The Institute will help us out.”

Margaret Lynnley gave a small sigh and gazed at the wall across from her and beyond.

“The two of you – an incomplete changeling and a minor foreseer – perhaps you would escape notice. But, what of your child? Yes, the child of two unique powers would certainly attract interest...” Her voice trailed off as she seemed to watch something only she could see.

“You don’t know there’ll be any kids, Grandmother. And, if there are, we’ll protect them together. They way parents do – the way you’ve guarded me all these years.”

Rachael stood up and crossed over to where her grandmother sat. She gently took the two wrinkled hands in her own smooth ones and looked into her eyes.

“Please.”

The older woman looked deep into her granddaughter’s pleading eyes and deeper into what lay in her heart.

“You’re old enough you could have just married already.”

Rachael reddened and her grandmother laughed.

“Grandmother! Rachael would never embarrass herself by doing such a thing!” Emily was horrified that this could be imagined of her little sister.

“That had been my original idea,” Rachael confessed, to the consternation of her sisters, “but Kyle said I’d regret it if I didn’t try to work things out with you.”

Margaret raised an eyebrow at this and looked over Rachael’s shoulder to the young man approaching to stand by her.

“You may not think it of me, but I do understand the importance of families,” he answered her, quietly.

There was a moment of silence. The elder sisters shuffled impatiently, waiting for their grandmother to dismiss this unsuitable young man. Rachael continued to silently implore her to grant this one wish. Margaret and Kyle seemed to have resumed their earlier staring match, both wearing impassive expressions on their faces.

“Very well.”

“WOOO!!”
“What?!”

Margaret winced at the cacophony that greeted her ears from Rachael’s jubilant shriek and the protests from Jane and Emily. Rachael leaned forward and embraced her grandmother then danced back to hug Kyle. Emily and Jane were trying to voice their opposition simultaneously to both their grandmother and to Rachael. Margaret held up a hand and everyone fell silent.

“You may marry him, but only under the following condition,” she said with a stern face. “You leave here and you leave the family. There can be no contact between you and us ever again.”

Rachael’s face went pale and she gripped Kyle’s hand tightly.

“I suggest you marry and rid yourself of the Lynnley name as quickly as you can. For everyone’s safety.”

Kyle gave a nod of understanding and, after a moment, Rachael did as well.

“The official story will be you eloped and ran off to parts unknown with a stranger. As a result, you were disowned. Nobody,” here she sternly looked at her other two granddaughters, “will ever say otherwise.”

Margaret stood up, then, and let the strict expression slip from her face. With a loving smile, she pulled her granddaughter into a tight embrace and murmured in her ear, “I always knew you would not be content to live in this cage. Be happy, my dear.”

She took Rachael’s hand and put it into Kyle’s, speaking louder, “Be happy, both of you.”

“Thank you.” Kyle gave a deep bow to Margaret then turned a gentle smile to Rachael. She smiled back, though she was unable to keep the tears from falling.

“Rachael, surely you don’t mean to-”
“Please, think of what you’ll throw away-”

Rachael went over to her older sisters and tried comfort them, but they would have none of it.

“Please, won’t you wish me happy?”

Her grandmother silently gave a shake of her head to Rachael as the other two continued their wailing. With a small sigh, the youngest Lynnley sister hugged her older sisters. She stopped by her grandmother to give her a small kiss on the cheek then returned to Kyle’s side. Rachael took the hand he offered and followed him out the door, refusing to look back as the bewildered sobs of her sisters carried to her ears. Resolutely, she walked toward the future with the man she had fallen for.

1977 – Part A

Once upon a time...

When he had made the carving of the girl in his dream, the clothes had seemed so fantastical that he wondered at his own sanity. When she first walked through the Institute’s doors in that very outfit – the bright red trouser suit with flared legs and halter top- he thought nothing of it, so used was he by now to the evolving fashions of humans. It was that smile, though, that woke in Kyle the memory of that dream from so many years ago. A ray of sunshine he had not realized was missing until it cut through the clouds – every time she flashed that smile at him that was what he felt.

Young Rachael Lynnley was looking to escape the boredom of life in the valley and find a way to use her power, slight as it was compared to her grandmother’s, to help people. When her grandmother tried to discourage her, Rachael merely brought up the stories the elder Lynnley had once shared of her own adventures as a young girl. Margaret had meant for the stories to act as a warning about the proper use of the power of foresight; the days passed and Rachael argued, coaxed, and pleaded - her grandmother wished that power had warned her of this particular consequence of sharing those stories. Grandmother Lynnley eventually relented. As Rachael was so determined, it seemed better to maneuver her to a place where her safety could be assured, instead of having her run off to dangers unknown.

Margaret arranged for the Institute that she herself had once aided, and been aided by, to take Rachael on as a research assistant. She was quite specific that any training in her abilities be done with utmost secrecy and kept to a minimum and that her duties be kept to benign research projects. Rachael was happy to have won this new bit of freedom, while her grandmother could rest easy knowing the young girl was in the safe care of those who could be trusted. It was the perfect plan - until Rachael met Kyle and that chaotic element of ‘love’ entered into play.

Rachael’s vibrant nature captured Kyle the moment their eyes met. She approached all life had to offer with a gusto he seldom saw in people. He watched, amused, as she deftly worked around the restrictions that had been placed on her, determined to accomplish her every goal. His amusement was somewhat dampened, however, when he became one of those goals. Although Kyle was entranced with this lively girl who had once haunted his dreams, he was hesitant to explore this new feeling. His experiences over time had made him cautious. He felt there were too many differences between them - there would be so many obstacles to overcome.

Rachael would not be swayed, though. Kyle’s friends at the Institute seemed to take great joy at seeing the man who had faced countless dangers with calm and composure suddenly become so flustered by this slender young woman. Finding no help from his friends, Kyle faced Rachael’s pursuit on his own – and quickly realized he was losing. She swiftly broke through the walls he had built up over the years. The fact that he was not human did not deter her in the slightest, nor did the difference in their ages phase her at all. She had an answer to every argument he could make, a solution to every problem he could think of.

Viktor came up to Kyle and clapped a hand on his shoulder. “You’ve lost,” he said after Rachael had stormed out one day, exasperated at Kyle’s latest excuse. Viktor Rudnyk was one of a handful of beings who had been at the Institute longer then Kyle and one of his closest friends. He, like Kyle, maintained youthful features that belied the years he had walked the Earth.

“What do I do?”

“Well, instead of spending the last hour staring at the door, you should have chased her down and offered to buy her dinner as an apology...” His rich mellow voice, with a hint of an Eastern European accent flavoring his words, expressed his amusement at Kyle’s bewilderment.

“No, I mean what do I do about...” Kyle waved his hand helplessly, trying to encompass his feelings about the situation as a whole.

“Boy,” Viktor said kindly, “have you considered just following what your heart already knows?”

He sighed at Kyle’s perplexed expression.

“She loves you. And you have fallen in love with her – though you have been too obstinate to see it. Love may only come once in your lifetime,” he said with a sad smile, “Do not let it pass you by because you are too caught up in the petty details surrounding it."

Viktor pulled Kyle out of his chair and pushed him towards the door. “She’s in the library. You can still catch her before she leaves for the weekend. Go on. Let yourself be happy for a change.”

Kyle gave his friend a grateful look and ran out the door.

“Kids, today...” The old vampire gave a shake of his head and returned to his work.

---

A shadow fell across the page Rachael had been trying to read for the last half-hour. She looked up, her annoyance giving way to surprise.

“Look, ah... I apologize for my earlier remarks. If, ah, if you would not mind...” Kyle trailed off, helpless as her liquid brown eyes bored into his own and uncertain that she would so willingly forgive him after all his previous rebuffs. Like a clear sky after the storm, that amazing smile spread across her face.

“I’d love to go out for dinner.”

They enjoyed a picnic in the park that evening and Kyle dared to open up at last. They talked long into the night as he told her the story of his life.

A While Ago - Part A

Once upon a time...

Kyle had been at the KISMET Research Institute of Corr from practically the first day he had arrived in California. He had been wary, at first, of those who approached him as he stepped off the train. Over time, though, he came to trust them and eventually joined the Institute.

The Institute had several branches located around the world. They presented themselves as a historical research group to the public, but in reality, its focus was on more arcane subjects. The Institute was comprised of both human and non-human members, though Kyle was the only Changeling in the records to have ever joined. The combined knowledge and abilities of the members were used to protect against those who would use arcane powers for harmful purposes.

Kyle assisted in their research, adding his own experiences to their wealth of knowledge. They helped him accept his heritage and hone his remaining abilities, which he put to work in fighting the darker powers. Time passed. With the immigration papers of his parents and his own as a background, a new identity was created. He kept the name his parents had given him, despite the recommendation that he adopt a new alias. It was one of the few things he had left that they had given him...

2nd Section

The Beginning - A Long Time Ago - Part A

Once upon a time...

It began, as such things often do, with a baby. Two babies, in fact. One, the healthy baby boy born to Aisling Marie and Callum Craddock Naomhan in the outskirts of one Glenfeshie village; the other, the changeling that was left in his place one day. With civilization rapidly moving to a scientific and modern world, the change in the child’s appearance – from fair to dark and from lively to listless - would have been attributed to the effects of consumption had this occurred in one of the ever-expanding cities. In fact, that or some other ailment would have likely been the case in those modern towns where magic no longer dwelt. In this tiny village nestled between forests and hills, however, boundaries between one world and another were much thinner and everyone here knew that the fae did exist. It was muttered by the few who knew what happened, in low voices and with a wary glance, that Ysbail, who had been unable to produce a child of her own, had deliberately looked the child over with as much envy as possible so that the babe would be in the powers of the faeries.

Now, there were a number of old country remedies to banish a changeling and regain one’s own child, many of these involving such cruel methods such as setting the imposter on fire. Banishment of the changeling did not always result in the return of the missing child, but at least the grieving parents could take comfort that the missing child’s life with the faeries was a better one - or so it was rumored to be so. Aisling was grieved, to be sure, of the loss of her own baby boy. However, she was a kind soul and felt a great sense of pity for the sickly creature that had been abandoned to the human world in favor of a healthier child. She could not bear the thought of torturing the poor thing on top of everything else it must have surely been through, and so after much consideration, Aisling decided to raise the changeling as her own son. She pled her case to her husband, who also was a kind soul, and he honored her choice. Together, they took the child to the church in the next village over and had him baptized as Kyledyr Connor Naomhan. The child was brought home and began his life as a human boy.

A Long Time Ago – Part B

“Mum, I met the oddest man on my way home this evening.”

Kyledyr saw the quick start his mother gave, but her voice was as light and natural as always when she spoke.

“Odd? How so, sweetie?”

“Well, he was really pretty, for a guy, like maybe an angel or something, and moved like he was floating instead of walking. And he asked me what happened to my wings. Isn’t that a strange thing to ask?”

“That is odd... Did he say or do anything else to you?”

There was no mistaking the worry in her voice now. Kyledyr had seen this in her before, usually when he was late coming home or when he had (accidentally, of course) shown some of his unique talents in front of others.

“He said there was a dance and picnic in the woods if I wished to him and his friends, but I said no, I did not wish to be late and make you worry. And then I left.”

That last bit was a tiny lie, but it seemed to relieve some of the worry that was creasing her brow. Unexpectedly, she came over and wrapped him up in a hug.

“Kyledyr Connor Naomhan, you are surely my pride and my joy and my beloved son. Promise me you’ll never forget that.”

“Mum?”

She let him go and tousled his hair with a smile.

“Go wash up. Your father will be home for supper, soon.”

He returned her smile and scampered off to the pump out back. Kyledyr dawdled as he washed, taking the moment alone to think over the rest of the encounter. For instead of coming right home, he had hid and watched as the stranger had disappeared into the forest. It may have been a trick of the evening light and the shadows cast by the dense wood, but Kyledyr would have sworn that he saw the oddly textured cloak unfurl into a pair of wings. Even more wondrous were the others that appeared to share the most unhuman nature; they appeared just inside the wood and joined up with the stranger before the deep forest swallowed them all. For an instant, he had been sorely tempted to run after the man and his comrades and discover what was the truth of their existence. However, there had been a glint of cold cruelty in the man’s eyes that Kyledyr mistrusted. The glimpse of that darkness had been oh so brief, but Kyledyr was good at noticing even the smallest details. That flash of something ugly beneath the stranger’s beauty had evoked a sense of fear that was inexplicably familiar, as well as a fiery anger that still simmered deep in his heart.

“Where are your wings, child?”
Kyledyr looked over shoulders, making sure his back had not suddenly sprouted any appendages as a result of his chance meeting with the perplexing man. It would most definitely cause distress in his parents.

“Will you join us?”
“No thank you, sir. Mum will fret if I am late.”

It was true, as well, that he had not followed the man because he did not wish to worry his parents, especially his mother. He was most blessed he knew to have such kind people for his parents. He never suffered the bruises from the rod as some of the other children in the village did, nor did he oft hear their voices raised against him. Kyledyr even heard a number of adults say how lucky he was to have Aisling and Callum as his parents; on several occasions there was an undercurrent that suggest he might be more lucky then he realized, although he could not quite figure out the reasoning behind this. He had suspected that he might not be their child since he did not think he looked like either parent. Perhaps he had been taken in by relatives, like the Miller children who had come to live with their aunt and uncle after the tragic fire. Neither Aisling nor Callum, though, had Kyledyr call them ‘aunt’ and ‘uncle’ or any other familial name. Nor did they ever give any other indication that Kyledyr was not their son.

“Kyledyr Connor Naomhan, you are surely my pride and my joy and my beloved son. Promise me you’ll never forget that.”

He wondered why she thought he might forget his own mother. She seemed quite prone to worrying when she did not know where he was, as though he was just going to vanish into thin air at any moment. Once, he had missed dinner because he had fallen asleep in the Laughlin’s barn after a rigorous day of helping the older boys round up some missing goats. He awoke to find his mother pulling him out of the hay, laughing and crying as she held him tight. She had watched him like a hawk for many days after. Since then, he made sure to be on time whenever he knew she was expecting to meet him, whether it was at home, or church, or at the market. He did not like seeing her cry – and he did not want to lose the precious free time he had for playing with the other kids. Kyledyr frowned. He hoped that this stranger’s arrival, which had certainly caught his mother’s attention, did not result in less free time.

“I've heard the lilting, at the yowe-milking,
Lasses a-lilting before dawn o' day;
But now they are moaning on ilka green loaning;
The Flowers of the Forest are a' wede away.”

Callum’s boisterous voice cut through Kyledyr’s musings and sent the boy scrambling around to the front of the house. The cheery man broke off singing to greet the child as he approached.

“What’s this? A strapping young man seeks to claim my home while I’m away – oh, it’s you, son.”

“Daaaaa....”

Kyledyr protested the familiar greeting, as always, knowing it would not do him any good. His dad just grinned and patted him on the head.

“And how’s my boy, today? Behaving yourself?”

“Of course!”

Kyledyr’s dad smiled at the boy’s indignant response and rumpled his hair again.

“That’s my son,” he said fondly.

“You two going to talk the sun to sleep or are you coming in for dinner?”

Callum’s face broke into a big grin as he looked at his wife. He took but a couple of strides to meet her at the door, upon which he greeted her with a kiss most tender. She broke it off first, with a ‘tsk’ and ‘what will the neighbors say’ but she was smiling as well.

“Get in here, you two. Unless you like your dinner cold and your dessert burnt.”

A Long Time Ago – Part C

After Aisling had made sure that Kyledyr had said his prayers and was safely tucked in, she went to the kitchen and began preparing for the next day’s cooking and baking. She then sat in the kitchen with a warm drink and waited. Callum rejoined her shortly afterwards. A carpenter by trade, he always gave his tools a thorough check each evening, carefully sharpening, cleaning, and repairing each one as needed.

She pressed a mug into his hands and they sat in silence for a moment.

“Alright, what has you so worried, Dealan-de?”

Despite her fears, she could not help but smile at the pet name he had given her after first seeing her dance. “I vowed then that I would be the one to – not to capture and collect – but create a garden where such a beautiful butterfly would delight in for all times.” And so he had.

“I think one of them deliberately sought our son.”

Quickly, she recounted what Kyledyr had told her of his encounter.

“I will not... will not allow them to take another child from me! I could not bear it. Not again.”

She looked at him with both fierce determination and anguish etched deep across her face. He responded by reaching over to grasp her hand.

“I know, Dealan-de, I know. We’ll protect our boy. He will be kept from harm’s way, I promise.”

“But how? What if Kyledyr decides to follow one of them into that accursed wood for a picnic some day? They must know he is here – what if they just decide to steal him back?”

She glanced up, as though afraid that such a horrible happening was taking place that very instant while they sat below and talked. Callum squeezed her hand and gave a small shake of his head.

“Do not think such things. And as to how...” He paused, then took a deep breath. “We’ll move.”

“Move? Oh no, we couldn’t...”

Callum held up a hand and Aisling subsided with her protest.

“I have had a standing offer for a while now to go over to America – yes, to America – and I think that may be the best for all of us. First, the pay will be good and I’ll have more opportunities to find even more folks who could use my skills. Good woodworking has yet to be moved to a factory, thankfully.”

He made a wry face as he alluded to the plight some of their cloth-making neighbors faced as the result of industrialization.

“Also, I have not heard of any stories at all about the presence of their kind in the Americas. Their ties and their borders seem to lie here where civilization has dwelt for so long. We’ll move our boy far beyond their reach.”

She did not say anything, but gave a small nod of her head, acknowledging that she was considering his reasoning. Callum continued with the arguments that, in truth, he had thought out back when the job offer had come to him a month ago.

“The move will be a fresh start for all of us. We will not have to deal anymore with silly rumors. Kyledyr need not face any prejudice and you should not have to be the subject of petty gossip.”

And oh how the gossip had flown in spite of their best efforts. The Naomhan had moved from the village where the switch had taken place, but it did not seem to be far enough to ward off rumors of what was suspected to have occurred. Young Kyledyr’s appearance had improved with Aisling’s loving care. However, he still retained a darker complexion that might be passed off as too much sun in the warmer months, but was obviously not so when winter’s darkness saw the color fade from the other children. His hair was an unruly mop, blacker then the ravens. And then there were his eyes. They were a blue so deep and intense that few had ever seen. In any case, his features certainly did not match his mother’s creamy complexion, rich auburn hair, or hazel eyes. Even Callum’s dark chestnut hair and deeper tanned skin was not good enough to connect father to son, particularly for those who delighted in speculating about the truth of the child. Whispered theories on whether he was something unnatural or the product of an unfaithful wife had not gone unnoticed by Callum or Aisling, although the words were never directly spoken when they were about.

Those who thought he might belong to the realm of the fae backed up this theory with several observations. First, Kyledyr did not seem to age as fast as the other children did. Fortunately, the young boy’s fun-loving nature and quick wit kept him from being bullied by the village kids he lived alongside despite the youthful looks he retained. It was also hard to overlook his, well, abilities. He was quite good at finding lost things – objects of any kind, although he was especially quick at locating lost animals. When a child forgot to latch a barn door and a horse went exploring, or a gap in a fence meant the goat was gone, or dog’s bark had spooked some sheep, Kyledyr’s aid was always enlisted to help the child responsible for that chore.

“How do you do it?” One of the kids had asked. Kyledyr had merely shrugged and said, “It just comes to me.” Only objects of iron seemed to elude his seekings. A kicked horseshoe lost along the cart path or nails spilled in the grass were found only as fast as they could be spotted by the eye.

And then there was the deal with the weather. Kyledyr’s forecasts were always accurate. Now, good weather sense was not uncommon in the rural areas. You just had to pay attention to the sky and the wind. However, perfect predictions, especially of freak storms and sudden blizzards, were unheard of. Even more fantastic were the stories that said he could even control the weather. Of course, none of the adults had actually witnessed such a feat. Aisling had made sure of that after she had caught Kyledyr showcasing his talent to several children who were hoping for an early snowstorm to cancel their lessons with a traveling teacher. Kyledyr had taken one look at his mother’s face, white with both fury and terror, and had immediately stopped. It was one of the very rare occasions where she had raised her hand to her son. After that, he told any kid who asked that of course it was impossible for anyone to control the weather and it had only been a game of pretend.

Having listened to Callum’s reasons for why they should seek a new life in America, Aisling tried to give voice to the one thing that anchored her to this place.

“But, if we go to America... We won’t be here if... if...”

She could not say it, but Callum understood. It was the unspoken reason as to why they had not moved further, initially. It was also the biggest obstacle that he knew he would have to overcome if he were to get her to agree to the journey to the new land and the new life they all would benefit from. And so he spoke the words, cruel as they were.

“We aren’t ever going to see our Caradoc, again. Not after all this time.”

Her shoulders shook as she gave a small sob. For, as much as she loved Kyledyr, and always would, the loss of her firstborn child still ate at her heart. Aisling had never given up hope that Connor would be given back to her someday and she dreamt of a lively house with both sons. The truth of Callum’s words was undeniable, though, so wept for but a minute and then she wiped away her tears.

“He must surely be happy there, Dealan-de. They say their realm is free of disease and hunger and sorrow.”

Aisling gave his hand a squeeze to thank him for his attempt to console him. One look in his face showed that he grieving as much as she for their missing child. She took a deep breath to steady her voice and then gave her husband the answer he had hoped for.

“Very well. Let’s find a new life... a better life for ourselves in America.”

The words were spoken so softly, that Callum could barely hear them. They were spoken loud enough to be carried on the tiniest of breezes, which twisted and flowed, gaining shape as fog from the air coalesced around it until it looked like a watery winged snake. It entered the forest and found the Border. Shifting again once it crossed, taking the form of a young boy with strange liquid eyes of silvery gray. He made his way back to his master, who waited on the other side for his report.

“So, he soon shall be far from our grasp? We must act with haste then, if we wish to claim possession of him.”

The fae creature, fair of form but most vile of heart, gave a cruel laugh. Wings rustled like dead leaves on the ground as others joined in. The sound carried past the Border and to the forest’s edge where it quickly sobered a passing drunk who suddenly wanted to be home behind a barred door. It was more then loud enough to cover the departure of a plain, tiny moth that had its own master to report to.

A Long Time Ago - Part D

The attack came quick as the sun was setting. Kyledyr was passing the spot where he had met the stranger but a few days before when he noticed the sudden absence of any sound from the birds, insects, or other animals. The temperature abruptly dropped when it should have still been quite mild; it was not of his own doing, either. The next thing he knew, he had been knocked face forward onto the dirt road. Something flapped above him. He coughed as the dust puffed up into his mouth and nose; a second later, the coughs turned into screams as the twin knives of agony stabbed into his shoulders. Instinctively, he jerked his body to the side and rolled, trying to shake off whatever was attacking him. His assailant pulled back. Kyledyr could feel the hot stickiness of his own blood ooze quickly from the wounds and soak into the back of his shirt. Nausea set in when he tried to move and his body spasmed and retched in response.

“Mummm.... Daaa....”

“Why do you fight it, child? They are rightly yours.”

Kyledyr remembered the voice from a few days earlier. He twisted his head to look up and saw the man emerge with several others from the wood. Though the light was dying and Kyledyr’s sight was fading in and out, they were oddly clear to him. Tall, slender, and fair, each seemed more beautiful then the last. Their features were delicate, their bodies were perfectly in proportion, their otherworldly clothes fit without a wrinkle, and they moved with a fluid grace. They would have been at home in some painting of a fanciful garden where the ethereal spent the day languidly lounging about in artful poses. The crowd observed him with the same indifferent expressions that the artist of such a painting would surely have endowed them with... except for the one whom Kyledyr had met before. Cruelty and greed vied for expression on his face, lending a grotesque look to his fine features.

“Fae...ries...” he croaked as his mind took in the other peculiarity they all shared. Each one had a pair of wings – some were like an insect’s, this one a locust, that one a weevil; others were like tattered leaves that had long since fallen from their tree. The stranger’s wings looked like they belonged to a dragonfly that had decided two pairs of wings were not enough. Six sable wings, each one a little smaller then the one above it, moved restlessly as the man gave an unpleasant chuckle and slowly approached Kyledyr. He tried to back away, but movement had become impossible.

Kyledyr heard the flapping sound again. Something swooped over him, then circled and flew up behind the man. In the light that was now being provided more by the moon and ethereal glow wisps that seemed to accompany the fae beings, Kyledyr could make out a pair of sapphire blue wings. Also shaped like a dragonfly’s wings, they moved unaccompanied by a fairy. Where the wings came to a joint there were two sharp points, like fangs, that dripped with blood. Kyledyr stared at them, horrified.

“Faeries? That is the popular words humans use for any that come from the other side of the Border, is it not? Ah, but you should not use such a silly human word; it is a disgrace to your own kind.”

The man was almost to Kyledyr and the attacking wings fluttered hungrily in the air behind him, waiting to drop again on the boy. The moon hid away under a cloud and the world darkened. Kyledyr closed his eyes. He was confused by the man’s words, ill from the pain emanating from his shoulder blades, and desperate for this to all be some strange nightmare that he would wake from at any moment.

Mum, Da, I’m sorry...

“Accept your doom, child of mi...”

Several odd thunks interrupted the man, and he gave a strangled cry. Kyledyr forced his eyes open to see a shadowy figure standing between himself and the cruel man. Movement caught at the corner of his eyes – there were others surrounding him. The moon reappeared and Kyledyr could make out a little more of the newcomers. Some held long spears while others held small bows of an unknown make. Both spears and arrows looked like they were designed of moonbeams made solid. Smaller and darker in complexion then the others, but still possessing an supernatural beauty of their own right, they did not look like they would spend their days lounging amongst the flowers. Lithe muscles and purpose of movement suggested an altogether different nature in these creatures.

His seeming rescuers did share one feature with the cold-blooded beauties – that of flight appendages sprouting from their backs. The one in front of Kyledyr had wings that resembled silvery spider webs; others looked like butterflies or moths, while several seemed to resemble flower petals.

There can’t be that many kinds of fairies. Maybe this is a dream after all.

“Your actions are outside our Law, Toirdhealbhach. You have already interfered with this one’s fate once. You are permitted to do no further harm to the child.”

He burst into laughter, as though he had come across the drollest of jokes. Those with him followed suit and the air rang with a sound that was simultaneously pure and heartless.

“And since when did your Law matter to us? I still have a blood claim to this one. I shall do as I please and bring the child and his powers back across the Border.”

Small daggers and light blades were drawn on one side; spears and bows were held at the ready on the other. The air cracked and sparked with strange energies as each side brought their powers to bear.

“You have no claim on him!”

A flash of movement accompanied the declaration of a feminine voice and spoken with a fervent rage. Kyledyr found himself gently lifted and being rapidly carried away.

“Odelina! Traitor!”

Toirdhealbhach’s angry cry was cut off as the others moved in and blocked his pursuit. The sounds of the fight quickly fell behind Kyledyr and the one spiriting him away. He looked up and caught sight of tears that gleamed like miniature crystals streaming down a heart-breakingly elegant face and then he saw no more as he fainted away.

A Long Time Ago - Part E

The sun had set and Aisling was now beside herself with worry. Kyledyr had been sent to deliver some of the Naomhan’s chickens to another villager in repayment for the help this person was providing in selling off the other Naomhan’s animals. She tried to tell herself that Old Barclay had probably got to talking with her son and at any moment she would see him hurrying down the road. But the moments crept by and he still had not returned. Callum was still away finishing up a job in another village– she did not expect him back until late in the night.

The minutes dragged by and a storm looked to be rolling down the mountain by the distant wood. Aisling finally could stand it no more; she grabbed a lantern and an extra shawl, then headed out the door. She knew it was considered foolishness to be out by herself this late at night, but her son was missing. No mother could just sit idle when a child was not where he should be.

Aisling made it as far as the road beyond the gate to their home when the dark-skinned girl appeared. A strange greenish-blue cloak settled around her shoulders and seemed to glow under the light of the moon. Her ebon-colored hair was tousled as if by a great wind and her eyes... No, this was not a girl, but a young woman, whose brilliant blue eyes had witnessed a far greater passage of time then any mortal’s would ever see. Tears were falling from those eyes that seemed so familiar as she handed the bundle she carried over to Aisling. A small cry escaped Aisling’s lips as she realized she now held her missing Kyledyr, injured but alive. She looked back at the other woman and suddenly knew without a doubt who she must be. The two mothers, mortal and fae, shared a moment of silent understanding, then the one turned away. Her cloak unfurled into the wings of a Luna moth and as suddenly as she had appeared she was gone.

Slightly dumbfounded, Aisling stood there for a second more before a small whimper from the boy in her arms spurred her into action. Practically running back into the house, she gently set him down on the rug by the hearth, then bolted the doors and shuttered all the windows. Nearly every charm imaginable to ward against evil spirits and unwelcome visitors had long ago been incorporated around the house. Aisling brought some of these over to where Kyledyr lay along with a Bible to guard him for the brief moment she needed to go draw water from the well.

As she let the fire heat the cauldron of water, she gently removed Kyledyr’s blood-soaked shirt, steeling herself for the worst. Aisling breathed a small sigh of relief when it became apparent that the wounds were not as great as she had feared. She carefully cleaned away the blood from his body and wondered at what may have caused the two symmetrical wounds that still oozed slightly. The water over the fire began to boil and she moved it away from the flames. From a cupboard, she removed a mixture of herbs that she kept on hand for the sporadic injuries that Callum sometimes suffered while on the job. She measured out and crushed the herbs in a bowl then slowly added hot water to the mix until it formed a gooey paste. The room filled with the medicinal smell of the herbs and helped clear Aisling’s head as she worked.

“Please, protect him.”

Aisling had seen the unspoken plea in the other woman’s eyes as clear as if she had spoken the words out loud. By the way she had held the child, it was clear that she did not wish to let him go again; the fact that she did meant she had reason to believe that his life would be far better in the mortal world. Aisling wished she had thought to ask about her own son. She hoped, at least, that the gentle creature she met tonight was responsible for his care.

A loud knock on the door broke her thoughts and almost made her spill the bowl of balm with which she was covering Kyledyr’s wounds.

“Dealan-de?”

Never had she been so glad to hear Callum’s voice. A pent up sob escaped her lips as Aisling quickly unbarred the door to let her husband in. Callum wrapped her in an embrace as soon as he took in her tear-streaked face. After making sure that she had not been the victim of any injury, Callum looked about to see if he could discover the source of her sorrow.

“Hush, Dealan-de. What’s wrong...?”

He caught sight of their son in front of the hearth and quickly strode over to him, all the while keeping his arm around his wife. After he assured himself that Kyledyr was alive and not in any immediate danger of death, Callum turned to Aisling for an explanation. She recounted all that had transpired earlier in the night and then drew silent. Callum held her close while he considered the implication of the evening’s events then made a decision.

“We’ll see how Kyledyr is after tomorrow. If he’s no worse, then we’ll move him and you to my cousin’s place in Greenock. He’ll be much safe there and you’ll have more help in keeping watch over him. There’s not much we have left to do before we move, anyways. I can finish the rest by myself and rejoin you in no time at all.”

Aisling nodded. Any qualms she had about leaving had swiftly been abandoned in light of what had occurred tonight. Thus calmed, she turned her attention back to her son.

A Long Time Ago – Part F

In the days that followed, Kyledyr could not be certain what was a dream and what was real. When he was finally able to hold on to his consciousness for more then a few moments, he discovered himself to be in a strange bed in a room that was not his own and being attended to by a woman that he did not recognize.

“Oh, you’re awake at last, lad? Annabella! Be so kind as to fetch his mother.”

A girl passing by in the hall nodded and hurried off. Kyledyr looked at the woman, confused and uncertain which question to ask first. She seemed to sense this and gave him a comforting smile.

“I’m Fiona, your father’s cousin a time or two removed. You’ve been recovering here at my home from your accident for the past couple weeks. What a nasty accident that was, poor soul, but don’t you worry, we have the best medical care here in Greenock and you’ve been recovering quite well – I expect you’ll be up and about in no time at all!”

The woman seemed to speak without breathing as she helped Kyledyr sit up a little and fluff the pillows that supported him. A dull pain tugged at his back and he tried to match the woman’s words with his memories. He recalled his Da saying they would stay with a cousin in Greenock before setting sail to America. He tried to remember an accident that would have left him in his current state, but all his mind could conjure was nightmarish visions.

“Kyledyr!”

Aisling’s joyful cry brought him back to the present. A second later he was caught up in her embrace. He could feel her shake as she laughed and cried. Embarrassed, Kyledyr tried to pull away a little.

“Mum...”

Fiona laughed and left the room. Aisling hugged him close a moment longer then gently let him settle back against the pillows. She put the back of her hand against his forehead, checking for fever. Kyledyr thought her own face looked pale and certainly etched with more worry lines then he had ever seen it.

“How do you feel, sweetie?”

“Okay. Kind of tired. And my back hurts... Mum, what happened?”

Aisling fussed with his pillows and blankets and brushed some of his hair away from his face before she answered.

“You were gored by a young bull that was running loose, remember?”

Kyledyr thought for a moment. He remembered something stabbing him in his back and knocking him down. That had been a bull? His mother continued as he tried to reconcile his memories with what she was telling him.

“Your wounds weren’t that bad, thank the Lord, but the wound fever set in quite rapidly. You’ve been suffering from a bad fever for some time now. We brought you here so we could get you some proper medicine and care from a doctor.”

“I thought... I thought I saw faeries...”

Aisling gave a shaky laugh and ruffled his hair.

“You seemed to have had quite the dreams while you were out! There are no such things as faeries, sweetie.”

“But...”

“Tsk, that’s enough. Now, I want you to drink this and get some more sleep. You’re not completely well yet and I don’t want you suffering a relapse of that fever, okay?”

Kyledyr took a look at her face and then nodded obediently.

“That’s my boy. Your Da will be joining us in a couple of days and I know he’ll want to see you up and well.”

Aisling made sure he drank the whole cup of the bitter medicine, then stayed by his side until she was certain he was asleep. During the worst of his fever, he had talked in his sleep of strange people and things that Aisling was certain were memories of what had happened that horrible night. The doctor, a man of science, had passed the odd sentences that escaped Kyledyr’s lips as the products of fever-induced nightmares and assured Aisling that such tricks of the brain were quite common with such a severe fever. She was grateful for the ignorance of the modern world of things not of science and prayed that the fever Kyledyr had suffered would keep him from recalling what had really happened, at least until they were safely abroad. She wondered if he had seen the face of the one who had carried him away to safety...

Aisling crossed over to the window and opened it. Although she could not see the ocean, the salty smell of it was in the air. She looked forward to the day that they would be in America.

3rd Section

A Long Time Ago - Part G
New York City

“Mum?”

“Yes, sweetie?”

“Why did they change our names?”

The immigration books had just a little while ago recorded the admittance of Cal Nivens, his wife Ashley, and son Kyle to America.

“Well, since most people come to America to start a new life, you get a new name to symbolize a fresh start.”

Aisling, now Ashley, was actually a little unclear on the reason behind their new names herself, but did not let that stop her from telling him something that sounded right and would hopefully prevent more questions. The truth was less romantic; the immigration official had given them names that he could spell. Cal had murmured to her that it would make it that much harder for anyone to track them down, so she had assented to the use of the new names.

“Mum?”

“Yes, dear?”

“Why did you lie to that man?”

Ashley looked down at Kyle. Seated next to her in the busy station, he was watching the huge crowds of people passing by with great interest. Callum was somewhere nearby, awaiting word from the man who was to meet them here. Ashley and Kyle were left watching their bags. She clutched her handbag with its precious immigration papers in it especially tight.

“Lie?”

“You told that man that I am only eight. I am almost twelve, you know.”

He reproached her as only a child could when it came to the question of age and the grievous affront of not counting all the years; never mind that his twelfth birthday was too many months away to be considered as ‘almost’ happening. Ashley regarded him for a moment before answering.

“If I had told him the truth, he would not have believed me, and we might have ended up separated. He might have thought that you were sick with something which has stunted your growth and not let you in.”

Kyle mulled this explanation over, then nodded his acceptance.

“Mum?”

“Yes?”

“Am I sick?”

“What? No, of course not! You just have yet to hit your growth spurt. Just you wait and see, one day here you’ll shoot up like a tree and be even taller then your Da.”

“Really?”

“Yes, really. And then you’ll be a handsome young man, and marry a beautiful young woman, and have a family, and move away, and...”

“Okay, mum, okay.”

She breathed a small sigh. She knew at some point she was going to have to tell him about his heritage. It also meant she would have to admit that his dreams from that evening many nights ago were the also the truth. Soon, if he continued to age at such a slow pace.

Kyle let the sigh pass without comment. She had been doing a lot of that, recently. He thought that perhaps she had not really wanted to leave their small village after all, although she kept saying that coming to America would be good for all of them.

As for himself, Kyle was certainly somewhat sad to be separated from his childhood playmates, but at the same time he was excited to see what life in a new country would be like. The ocean voyage had already been quite worth it, in his opinion. They had swiftly set out as soon as he had completely recovered from his injury and fever. He had seen dolphins and whales engaged in their own journeys and many different sea birds. Kyle had thought he had glimpsed strange people swimming along the boat one moonlit night. He was positive one even waved to him, although he knew better then to mention this sort of thing by now. His mother would certainly be convinced he had another fever and make him take more of that awful medicine. So, he filed the memory or dream away along with that of the winged man and looked forward to the new wonders he might see in this land of opportunity.

“Mum?”

“Yes, dear?”

“Do you think we will see Indians?”

“Good heavens, child! Just where do you think we’re going to be living?”

He took that as a ‘no’ and returned his attention to the people passing through the station. Pretty soon, a familiar face came into view along with a well-dressed gentleman.

“Sorry to keep you waiting. Charles Aberford, I’d like you to meet my wife, Ai – Ashley, and my son, Kyle. This is Charles Aberford. He works for Mr. Hetherington and is here to help us get where we need to be going.”

“A pleasure, Mr. Aberford.”

“The pleasure is all mine, dear lady.”

The man doffed his hat at them and smiled briefly before settling into a business-like manner. In short order, Aberford had the Nivens and all of their possessions comfortably ensconced in a hotel. After giving them time to freshen up, he met them for a dinner in the hotel’s amazing restaurant and then took them on an evening tour to view the great sights of New York City.

After a brief stay in New York City, they traveled to Boston where Cal would begin his work for Mr. Hetherington. They were set up in a small, but comfortable townhouse that was not far from the bustling downtown area. One of the backrooms of the first floor had been cleared, ready to be used as Cal’s workshop. Kyle spent the next several days helping his parents as they set up the house to their liking. No sooner were they settled in then Cal was hard at work for Mr. Hetherington.

Mr. Hetherington was one of those lucky souls whose investments and businesses in America had proven to be spot on. He was living that American Dream, rising from a place among the lower working class to one of great wealth. And the Nivens were now benefiting, getting their own chance at finding that dream of prosperity in the New World.

Although Cal had made most of his living from basic carpentry, mostly the simple buildings and repairs that were all that could be afforded in small country villages, he had a deft touch and an eye for detail that turned even his most basic creations into objects of simple beauty. He was especially adept at creating pieces that were held together without a single nail – a combination of flawlessly fitted joint-work and perfect balance. His greatest skill, though, was in the carvings that adorned his specially made pieces. What appeared to be simple scrollwork at first glance would transform into a complex interplay of designs upon closer inspection. Cal would work with the natural grains and features of the wood to highlight the inherent beauty in each piece.

These specially made pieces – sometimes a chest, other times a chair and table set - would be sent along to the bigger cities, where such luxuries could be afforded. They always sold, too, and commissions began to come his way. One small sitting room table had made its way to Cora, newly married to one Mr. Hetherington and eager to set up a unique and refined household. Cora was struck with the quality and beauty of the woodwork. She tracked down and acquired several other items, but with a new house in America to provision and decorate she concluded that it would be more expedient to employ the woodworker himself. And so, after a few properly worded hints from Mrs. Hetherington to Mr. Hetherington, Cal was offered this golden opportunity.

Although Mr. Hetherington was Cal’s employer, it was the Missus for whom he was really working. She was quite specific in what she wanted, yet not so inflexible that she would not listen to Cal’s suggestions for alternative ideas. The days passed into weeks, which wore into months and the Hetherington house was furnished from floor to ceiling with Cal’s handiwork. True to his predictions, he was able to garner many commissions and his business flourished.

Ashley often took tea with Cora and some of her acquaintances. All the ladies were immigrants – wives of those who were prospering in America’s bounty. And though each one of them delighted in this new wealth, they all sought a connection to the land they still called home. Ashley enjoyed their company on many an afternoon, sharing stories of the place left behind, comparing notes on the latest fashions, and discussing the newest shops to open in the bustling city. The rest of her time was spent managing her household and taking care of the details of Cal’s business. She was the one who made sure Cal knew what pieces were due when, kept track of payments received and those still owed, and other particulars necessary for business to run smoothly.

As for Kyle, the city life did not seem to agree with him. He felt as though an integral part of his self was missing. He longed for the smell of fresh country air and the feel of the fields beneath his feet. This new setting left him listless, though part of that came, perhaps, from the growth spurt that finally hit. Ashley noticed as Kyle grew, his features became more human. She commented upon it to Cal one evening, who suggested that it could be the result of living so far where the worlds had bordered each other. In any case Kyle shot up, tall and athletic-looking, true to his mother’s hopeful predictions made back in New York.

He spent part of his time with tutors. His parents wanted him to have the education that they never had so he could have more options in the New World. He also took after Cal, helping him craft some of the smaller pieces. He particularly liked to carve. Cal got him his own set of steel carving tools when Ashley expressed her concern about him being around so much iron, although this was not spoken of to their son. When Kyle was not feeling well, he would just sit and carve. He became quite adept at creating intricate miniatures. People, plants, animals – all came alive with a cut of the knife.

It was not long before his miniatures were fetching a price of their own. Sometimes they were stand-alone figures, other times they were incorporated into a jewelry box or lady’s comb by Cal. Drawing from the images he remembered from his nightmares, Kyle created a number of fantastic figures that quickly became quite popular. He did an entire chess set of fey creatures that brought in a hefty sum, though Ashley did not seem quite as thrilled about it as he thought she would be.

“What if he remembers?” She fretted to Cal one evening as she looked through her son’s latest carvings. As of yet, he had not produced one that looked like the women Ashley had met that horrible night long ago and miles away.

“Dealan-de, you’re worrying overmuch. He thinks these are from his imagination. And, if he does remember, well, he’s old enough now to hear the truth. In fact, I’ve been thinking - he should be told the truth.”

Ashley made a small sound of protest and Cal held up his hand.

“I won’t say anything to him until you’re in agreement, but think about it.”

She nodded, though it was clear on her face that she would put off that moment for as long as she could. Cal let it go and they both turned their attention back to the work at hand.

A Long Time Ago – Part H

Summer was beginning to make its presence felt in the city of Boston. The bright greens of spring were deepening into the dark emeralds of fully leafed plants and many of the city's upper crust were turning their thoughts to summer homes in the countryside. Kyle was accompanying Ashley on a stroll through the park, enjoying the warmth that was not quite yet too hot. A face in the crowd across the way caught his eye.

---

“Kyle?”

Ashley turned when her son paused. Her brow creased in concern as she took in the sudden paleness that gripped his face. She followed where his gaze had frozen. A dapper-looking man with unhumanly beautiful features doffed his hat with a chilling smile before disappearing into the crowd. Ashley stood frozen a moment. She had seen that cruel smile before, captured perfectly in countless carvings created by Kyle.

Regaining her composure, Ashley grasped her son’s arm, giving him a small shake and pulling him about. Keeping a firm grip on his arm, she guided him as quickly as she could back to their home without breaking into a run. She kept glancing behind as they went, although she tried not to be obvious about it.

---

The piercing scent of tea and the hot cup in his hands finally broke through the haze that had clouded over Kyle’s mind. Nightmares that he now knew to be reality receded and looked around. He was somewhat surprised to find himself back at their house, in Cal’s workshop. His parents broke off their whispered conversation when they saw him looking at them. Ashley bustled back over to where he sat and began fussing over him. He gently grabbed her hand and looked up at her.

“Mum. Da. What is going on?”

Ashley looked at the floor, unable to meet his eyes.

“I met him, before. That man, no, that faerie that we saw. On the night you said a bull had attacked me. Please, tell me.”

Ashley shuddered with a small sob. Cal came over and put his arm around her shoulders.

“Dealan-de,” he said, softly.

She nodded and then settled on a stool next to Kyle. Looking into his eyes, Ashley took a deep breath then, haltingly, spoke of all she knew, from the day she found Kyle in place of her own babe to the one faerie she had met that dark night. He listened quietly as she spoke, with the occasional addition from Cal, about what they knew and what they guessed at. When she finished, there was a heavy silence as Kyle tried to process what he had been told.

“Why... why did you not tell me before?”

“I thought... I feared you would want to leave. To go back to them. I couldn’t bear it if you did. I’m sorry.” She began crying again. “I’m so, so sorry.”

Kyle thought back to that moonlit night, remembering the pain and the cruelty of the man and those with him. “Mum,” he said as he caught her hands in his. He fished for a handkerchief and wiped at the tears. It tore at his heart to think of all the worry his parents had lived with over these years. “Mum, you and Da are my family. You are the only ones who will ever be my family. I am not leaving you.”

Cal clapped him on the shoulder and Ashley hugged him tight. “Thank you, Kyle. Thank you.”

After several moments, Ashley regained her composure and Kyle asked what was on all their minds. “So, what do we do now? That one knows I am here.”

“We move,” Cal answered. He paced the floor, talking as he made plans.

“We’ve saved up a decent sum and we can make our living anywhere. America is a big land and there are riches to be found everywhere. Yes, in fact, that’s perfect! All the gold towns out west – we’ll make our fortune out west.”

Cal turned to his family with a broad grin.

“That’s right, we’ll follow the sun! And the gold,” he added with a wink.

4th Section

A Long Time Ago – Part I

Their escape west was made with as much haste and with as little notice as possible. They did not decide on a destination, initially, to make it more difficult for anyone who might be trying to trace them.

Eventually, they settled near one of the numerous towns that had sprung up as the result of the discovery of gold. The unimaginatively named Gold River Gulch was nestled amongst the Rocky Mountains, an explosion of civilization in the wilderness. Cal chose a plot of land beyond the town, closer to the mountainside that held the mine, although well far enough away from the access and excavation area that they need not fear of a cave-in. The small home and workshop he built were set amongst the trees he would use for lumber.

The mountain wilderness seemed to agree with Kyle’s constitution and he felt much healthier and lively since he had come to America. His tall frame filled out with muscles as he worked rigorously alongside his father to construct new homes and shops in booming town. Ashley took note of the lively sparkle that at last returned to his eyes and gave a silent prayer of thanks. Although he was now a becoming a handsome young man, she held him in her heart as that energetic little boy.

The Nivens family settled into a comfortable and happy life in Gold River Gulch. The mine continued to turn a profit, and the father and son team worked less on new buildings and more on creating the finer and more profitable furniture, decor, and knickknacks that those with newfound wealth so desperately craved.

As time passed, Kyle’s fine features and slightly exotic looks did not go unnoticed by the young women in town. His ability to bring home a profit did not go unheeded by the parents of these girls. He had charm and wit along with a slight mischievous streak that allowed him to easily get along with most everyone he met. He was exceptionally light on his feet, perhaps a gift from his bloodline. Never did he want for a partner in the many dances that filled the long winter evenings. Nor was it rare to see him out on picnic with other young folk during the warm summer days. And yet, though he was polite and kind to all, he did not seem to be caught by any one girl’s charms.

Ashley found him one early spring afternoon sitting on a bench behind the workshop and quite lost in thought as he stared into the woods in front of him. A small carving, only partway done, was on the table beside him. Too late, Kyle realized he was not alone; he made a grab for the figure, but his mother already had it in hand and stepped away as she examined it.

The figure of a young woman smiled back at Ashley. She was garbed in odd clothing, but her vivacious features were quite human, to Ashley’s relief. She tried to match the girl’s face up with one of the town’s beauties, however none sprang to mind. She handed it back to Kyle, who quickly stuffed it in the pocket of his jacket.

“So, who is she?”

“Nobody, Mum. Just a figment of a dream.”

He scooted over so she could sit on the bench beside him. They sat in silence for a moment, enjoying the warm spring sun that promised the snows on the mountain peak high above would no longer reach them.

“She could be real, then, if you dreamed of her. Out there, waiting for you.”

Kyle looked down at his mother. Despite the revelation about his heritage all those years ago, she seemed hesitant to bring it up. It was as though she was afraid that he would decide to pursue that birthright if he were reminded much of it. For the first time, he was struck by how small and frail she seemed. When did she get so old? Kyle put his arm around his mother and gave her a quick hug.

“I doubt it. Someone who is sensible and smart, and could accept the fact that the man she is marrying is not quite human? The odds seem rather slim.”

Ashley looked at him, troubled. “There is nothing to suggest you are other then human, though. Why should it even be brought up?”

“I could not betray the woman I fall in love with by keeping such a big secret.” He smiled down at his mother. “It’s your fault. Yours and Da’s, you know. You have shown me what a perfect marriage looks like – where both partners are honest and supporting. I cannot settle for anything less then that.”

He was relieved to hear her laugh at this. “You are shameless, Kyle Connor Nivens. Save your flattery for this mystery girl.” Ashley looked at her son with affection. “I do want you to be happy. That is all any mother could want for her son.” She tousled his hair as she stood up. “And, though you are my son, I know you are no longer a child. Follow your heart wherever you have to.”

Kyle pulled out the carving after she left and stared at the stranger who happily gazed back at him. She had seemed so real in his dream, this strange girl. If he were to find her, it would not be here; of this, Kyle was completely certain. He did not want to leave his parents alone, though. Kyle felt he owed them far too much to go chase a dream that was in all likelihood just a dream. Putting such thoughts out of his mind, he pocketed the unfinished figure and headed back into the workshop to finish a chess set he had been commissioned to make. Tomorrow was time enough for such cares.

A Long Time Ago – Part J

The American wilderness that continued to flourish away from the booming human cities still held many secrets. In these yet untamed lands, there were spots where the borders between worlds could be crossed. A young man made his way home along a path of moonlight, whistling the tune of one of the dances from the evening’s party. Prey in sight, the monster prepared to leap through the wavering where two realms met. Its form of water and wind shifted as muscles bunched, waiting for the command. His master smiled cruelly as the hunt began.

---

Ashley jumped and whirled at the sound of the door being slammed shut. A scream escaped her lips as her eyes were greeted with the sight of a torn and bloody back. The figure turned and limped forward, and Ashley felt a horrible sense of deja vu as Kyle looked at her, pain twisting his face.

“G-get anything w-with iron in it...”

He slumped to the floor and Ashley ran forward to help him. She worked quickly to remove what was left of his shredded shirt and wrapped damp cloths around his back to try and staunch the bleeding. Kyle tried to reiterate the need for her to grab anything that could be used for a weapon, but the pain and loss of blood made it hard to speak.

“Aisling, open up!”

A knock and Cal’s voice cut through the near-unconscious state Kyle wandered in.

N-no... wait...

Kyle tried to get up, to shout a warning, but the terrified Ashley had already unbarred the door and thrown her arms around her husband. She stiffened as Toirdhealbhach’s arms came up swiftly and plunged the silvery dagger into her back.

A surge of adrenaline sent Kyle flying to catch her before she hit the floor.

“MUM!”

“DEALAN-DE!”

The scream that ripped from Cal’s throat overpowered Kyle’s own cry and cut through the thunder of a rising storm. He returned home just in time to witness the horror in front of him. With strength born of grief and rage, Cal threw a hammer from his tool belt toward the startled fae. Toirdhealbhach barely got his hand up in time; as it was, the heavy iron smashed past his fingers and struck his temple. He howled as the iron burned into him and stumbled back. Cal pulled out another hammer and rushed forward to strike again.

“DA! Behind y--!”

Kyle watched helplessly as the serpent materialized in the air behind his father and struck. Cal’s strong, sturdy body twisted like a child’s doll as it was flung through the air. He hit the ground with a heavy thud and did not move again.

The wind and thunder intensified, responding Kyle’s unconscious commands. The lightening lit up Toirdhealbhach’s face, grotesquely contorted from his cruel smile coupled with the pain from where the iron hammer had seared his skin. He stalked over to where Kyle knelt next to his mother. The young man looked up the fae with intense hatred burning in his blue eyes. Toirdhealbhach just laughed.

“Do not blame me. If you had not been such a disobedient child all those years ago, these humans would still be alive. If you had not run tonight, these humans would still be alive. Yes, it is completely your fault that these insignificant creatures with their tiny life spans met their end all the sooner.”

Kyle leapt forward, madness driving away any feeling of physical pain. Lightening shot down from the sky all around them as Kyle attempted to strike his foe. Toirdhealbhach easily stepped aside, though, and the serpent quickly knocked Kyle to the ground. The amused fae gave an unkind chuckle as he firmly planted a boot on the struggling man, pinning him to the ground.

“Enough. This ends here, now.”

Toirdhealbhach gave a wave of his hand and the storm softened. Kyle sought to pull the storm back, but his long unused power appeared to be no match for the fae’s. The pain returned and the rage left him. Taking several steadying breaths, he spoke evenly, willing power into his words.

“Fine. Kill me, too. And may our deaths tonight curse you with every miserable breath you draw, until the fires of Hell consume you for all eternity.”

“Kill you? Ha! Ah ha ha! Oh no, child, you are far too valuable to kill. The power to bring the two clans together rests in your bloodline. Though Odelina has turned traitor to the cause, she cannot deny your rights as her son; not even if she dislikes the one who fathered her child.”

Kyle looked up in horror as the meaning behind Toirdhealbhach’s words sank in.

“Yes, you are needed back in my world. Our world, I should say. Pyt!” The fae snapped his fingers in command and the serpent shimmered then reformed into a boy. His silvery gray eyes stared blankly as he awaited his master’s order. “Bring them.”

Kyle could not see what was happening, but he could feel the world shiver around him. The horrible whum whum of something beating against the wind hovered in the air behind him, then the stabbing pain lanced through his shoulders.

“AHH! AAARRRRGH!”

Kyle howled and his body arched back as the wings anchored to him. A moment - then the agony was over. He huddled on the ground, panting, and his wings began to fill out as his blood pumped through them. Power unlike any he had ever known began to course through him. He was complete, now. The sensation rushed through Kyle. Yes, complete, powerful, and unstoppable. His senses were more aware then ever. He felt the border to that other world, awaiting his rule. He could also feel the terror of the distant townspeople who huddled in their houses against the rage of the strange storm that still blew outside their walls. Pitiful... His eyes fell on the unmoving figure of Cal and his mind suddenly cleared.

Pitiful? People who had taken in a child not their own, raised him, loved him, and died to protect him were not pitiful at all. No, they possessed something far greater then the one before him could comprehend. Kyle lurched back, aghast at the poisonous train of thoughts that had been filling his mind. His gaze settled on Toirdhealbhach, whose back was turned as he gave some final instructions to his servant. Kyle strode toward him, a low growl rising from his throat.

“How dare you. How DARE you!”

He took to the air, his sapphire wings easily holding him above the startled fae. Kyle summoned the full strength of the storm back and ruthlessly focused the power on Toirdhealbhach. The fae tried to block it, but he was no match against a force fueled by Kyle’s grief for the ones he loved. Swiftly, Toirdhealbhach and Pyt were driven through the Border, then it was torn apart.

Kyle dropped to ground, completely spent, and the storm dispersed as quickly as it had been summoned. He lay on the ground as the rain gently fell all around. The enormity of his loss gripped his heart and he wept bitterly into the rain-soaked ground.

Eventually, he was able to get up. There was work to be done. He walked shakily to Cal, stumbling as spasms from his accursed wings would throw him off balance. The thoughts came rapidly now. He did not have time to craft coffins. He could not arrange for a proper funeral. How would he explain what had happened tonight? No, he could not be around for explanations; not with his newly acquired wings proclaiming his non-human heritage for all to see.

“I was too late.”

Kyle whirled about quickly, ready to attack the soft voice behind him. She stood glowing softly in the inky blackness of the night. Her black tresses, dark as the night from which she emerged, streamed behind her in the lingering wind. Sorrow filled her blue eyes as she looked at Kyle.

“I am truly sorry.”

She did not move as she waited for him to respond. Her arms hung at her sides, her hands were held open to show she carried no weapon. The sea green wings of a Luna moth rested around her like a cloak, occasionally lifting with a gentle flutter. A part of Kyle absently noted that the wings were ragged around the edges while the rest of his mind struggled to deal with this newcomer.

“What do you want?” his hoarse voice was almost lost in the wind, but the harsh tone of his demand struck her nonetheless. He fixed her with his gaze, sapphire flames challenging sapphire seas. She flinched at the words, but did not look away from his eyes. Several breaths passed before she spoke, her voice so soft it sounded born of the mountain air itself.

“I only wanted what any mother would want. I wished you to be safe and happy.”

Kyle started as her words echoed the conversation he had a few days ago with the woman he called ‘mother’. The woman before him did not notice and continued speaking.

“I found out about Toirdhealbhach’s plans too late, else I would have been here in time to protect you. You, and the ones you hold dear.”

Her eyes glanced away to look at the motionless forms on the ground before returning to meet Kyle’s gaze.

“As challenging as this world is for our kind, it is a far safer place for you then our own realm would be. That is why the last time we met – when I finally held again the child that had been stolen from me - I returned you to your human family. Even if I were never to see your face again, I would have been content knowing you were free from his clutches.”

Her voice was pleading and her eyes were earnest as she spoke. Kyle felt his anger drain away as pity replaced it. She had suffered all these years, as well. He took a deep breath to steady his voice before speaking.

“Thank you.”

Her eyes closed and she nodded as she acknowledged the forgiveness in those two words.

“I guess, though, I will be rejoining this other world,” he continued grimly. He punctuated his statement with several sharp flaps of his wings, which snapped in the air. “It is not like I can live among people like this. But before I go...” he turned back to his parents, silently wondering how he would get them buried before dawn came.

“Summon the storm again. Summon it, but leave this place calm in the eye.”

Kyle looked at her questioningly.

“It shall guard against prying eyes. Trust me.”

After a moment, he nodded and concentrated on pulling the threads of weather back into the shape he wanted. The winds stirred, then howled as they whipped up around Kyle and the woman. All around them the lightening flashed and the rain poured, but the air was calm and dry where they stood. The fae woman nodded then stooped, putting both hands flat on the ground. Kyle watched as she spread her wings and began to sing.

Silvery moonlight poured down from the opening in the sky above them and flowed through her lithe frame and out her hands. The ground melted away and a shallow pit formed. Her song changed and deep green vines that ended with silvery flowers grew along the sides and bottom.

Kyle gently picked up first Cal and then Ashley, settling them beside each other in the leafy cradle. He retrieved Cal’s hammer that had struck Toirdhealbhach earlier and placed it on his father’s chest. He went into the house, returning with Ashley’s rosary, which he set in her hands. Kyle kissed them both on the forehead as he silently said goodbye, then nodded to the faerie.

Her song resumed and earth reformed over the grave. Kyle prepared to let the storm drop, but she continued singing. Her voice was like the loneliness of the mountains, her song heartbreakingly beautiful in the grief it carried. Kyle watched through the tears that streamed down his face as two sprouts emerged from the soil. They twisted and stretched toward the sky, their branches entwining. When she was done an Oak and a Willow stood at the head of the grave, looking as old as time itself.

She stood with a small sigh and turned to Kyle.

“Neither man, nor beast, nor monster will disturb their sleep. These trees shall stand forever to mark where they rest so you may always be able to find this place.”

“Thank you,” he whispered, this time letting that simple phrase express his gratitude. “So, where do we go from here?”

“You have a choice,” she replied. “You can return to the realm of your birth. Or, you can remain in the world of humans.”

“That does not seem to be much of a choice,” he said dryly with a nod toward his wings.

She shook her head. “I can help you remove your wings and seal away your powers. Not all of them, but enough so that you should be hard to seek by our kind. The life-span and remaining abilities granted by your blood may yet cause you problems with humans, but that will depend on your own choices and actions.”

Kyle stood silently as he weighed his options. The power he had at his hands was amazing. If he went to that other world, he could use it to get his revenge on this Toirdhealbhach. He could repay the sacrifice the woman before him had made those many years ago. The trees by his parents’ grave rustled in the calm air and he knew there was only one choice he could ever make.

“I am Kyle Connor Nivens and my life belongs here in this world.”

Tears shone in her eyes but she smiled at him.

“So be it. This way, then.”

She swiftly led him away from his house, towards the mountain and the entrance to the mine. As they drew closer, Kyle could detect the wavering that marked a boundary between worlds coming from the mouth of the cave. He eyed that spot with a hint of mistrust.

“Do not fear. My clan holds that particular Border and it shall be sealed once I was returned through it. I promise.”

She brought him to a halt near the well used by the miners, just outside their shantytown. The place was abandoned tonight, however. The ferocity of the night’s storms had driven them to seek safety in town, bedding down at the blacksmith’s or some of the other stables and barns that would be made available to them. The fae cupped her hands and brought them close to her mouth. She began to whisper and a small disk of silver formed then solidified. Turning to Kyle, she beckoned him to hold out a hand. The metal disk was no heavier then a coin, but warm to the touch.

“Toss it in the well and will your powers to go with it,” she instructed.

Kyle held the coin tightly in his hand, squeezing his eyes shut tight as he focused on remembering what it had felt like before he had acquired these powers. He threw the coin into the well and wished his powers gone with all his might. A bright flash blinded him and he was knocked to his knees. The storm seemed to gather at this spot and an immense energy flowed past him.

Calm returned at Kyle opened his eyes, blinking away the spots that filled his vision. The ground around him formed a circular depression, but other then that nothing looked out of the ordinary. He stood and realized he no longer felt the weight of those wings upon his back. Turning quickly, he looked for the fae woman.

She stood at the opening of the cave, holding the limp blue wings in her hand. The air was shifting as she began to step across. Kyle ran after her.

“Wait!”

She turned to him. Crystal tears rolled down her delicate cheeks, but she smiled at him as she called back, “Head west. You will meet those who will be able to help you. Kyle Connor Nivens – that is a good name, wear it proudly. Be safe. Be happy.”

He stopped and held her gaze one last time. “You as well.”

The world shuddered and she was gone. Kyle turned back to his home. He had only a few hours left in which to pack and take his leave of this place. In silence, he gathered his possessions as well as mementos of his parents. He tidied up the house, then headed out. Kyle knelt for a moment by their graves, quietly weeping as he thought of the sacrifice made by the one who had given birth to him and the ones who had raised him.

“Thank you. Be at peace now,” he whispered softly. He stood and hoisted his bags and packs. Kyle was well on his way as the sun rose, gently warming his back.

---

“Where to?” the ticket seller at the train station asked the young man standing before him. Bright blue eyes gleamed back at him.

“West - following the sun.”

5th Section

1979 – Part B

The two of them sat silently in the car for a moment, watching the setting sun.

“Are you alright?” Kyle reached over to wipe away the tears that were trickling down her face. Rachael nodded as she gulped air, trying to stifle the sobs. The deeping amber evening light set her skin and hair aglow, like a golden angel.

“Go ahead and cry.” She shook her head and took a last deep breath to steady herself.

“No, this is fine. I knew it might end up this way.” Rachael smiled. “I’m glad you insisted on telling Grandmother, first.”

“What can I say? I am an old-fashioned kind of guy,” Kyle said with a wry grin.

Rachael laughed at that, all tension melting away with every giggle. She leaned over and kissed him.

“I’d bet there isn’t a single May-December couple out there that has quite so much time between their May and December.”

“I would not be so certain.” Kyle’s grin turned impish. “You could always ask Willie,” he continued, referring to the Institute’s most avid historian.

“Don’t you dare bring that up with him! He’ll likely know of enough instances to talk the better part of the day.”

“Very well,” he said with a laugh. “In any case, we should head back to the others, tell them the good news, and see how quickly we can get that marriage license.”

“Um, about that...” Rachael reddened a little and looked down. She fumbled through her purse then pulled out a document. “I knew she’d say yes, so I went ahead and took care of the application and such. So, we just need to go find a Justice of the Peace or the like and we’ll be set.”

“You knew?”

“Well, I was fairly positive...”

“...”

“Oh heck, I was going to marry you whether she consented or not, so I figured I might as well speed things along.” She looked back at him, a little worried. “Er, you don’t mind, do you?”

He answered her with a kiss. When he finally pulled back, he was smiling. “Let us go get married then, shall we?”

“Yes.”

August 1982 - Part B

“Er, yes?” Kyle was uncertain what he was agreeing to, but he had discovered that was usually the safest course when his wife asked his opinion on topics known only to her.

“Our daughter’s name; how do you like ‘Kina’?”

Rachael turned to Kyle with a dreamy smile, the first she had shown since her grandmother’s death, obviously satisfied with her choice.

“That is... wait, ‘daughter’?”

She rested her hands on her belly, still fairly flat this early in the pregnancy, and gave a knowing grin and nod. “Yes. I saw. It’s a girl. We’re going to have a daughter.”

Kyle came over and wrapped his arms around her. She guided his hands down. Although he knew the baby was still too small to detect, his other senses could feel the tiny lifeform. So full of potential... “A daughter, huh?” He hugged his wife tight, his grin as broad as hers.

“So, what do you think of ‘Kina’ for her name?”

He chuckled. “We have a while to decide.” Kyle threw his hands up and stepped back at the look Rachael shot him. “But, ‘Kina’ is fine if you want to settle on this now.”

“Yes. I want to be able to call her by name right away.” She blushed. “I know that sounds silly...”

“Not in the least,” he answered with a fond smile. “So, is ‘Kina’ short for something? Or is this someone you know?” He had been racking his memory for people Rachael had mentioned over the years, or the various languages he knew for a meaning to this name.

She shook her head. “It’s not after anyone; it doesn’t even mean anything – I just think it sounds pretty and cute for a girl. It’s different, but short and easy to spell. She won’t grow up bound by any definition of her name.”

“That’s a lovely name. Kina it is.” His heart glowed at her joyful smile. He likely would have agreed to ‘Rainbow Moonchild’ if it meant his wife was happy.

“You have to pick her middle name, then.”

“I do?”

“Yes. She’s part me and part you – including the name.”

“Very well.”

Kyle resumed painting his section of the wall. The Institute had moved them to this inauspicious house on Swallowtail Drive after they had announced Rachael’s pregnancy to a select few of their most trusted friends at the Institute. The middle class neighborhood looked like any other, but much of the property was owned and watched over by the Institute. The unusual circumstances surrounding this child would certainly raise unwanted interest by any number of unsavory beings.

The thought of one such as Toirdhealbhach discovering the news had left Kyle sleepless on many a night. He had even discussed the possibility of Rachael moving back to Tokkec’s Valley, or a similar place of anti-magic, but the unknown effect it could have on a half-fae child quickly ruled out that idea. The wards woven through the neighborhood scrambled the signature energies of most magics in a passive manner. Though they were not as strong as more active wards would be, they did not draw attention to the fact that something was being protected here.

Kyle had made several passes with the roller brush, transforming this part of the plain off-white wall into a cheery spring green, when he realized he was being stared at. He turned to see Rachael looking at him with a very impatient expression.

“You want me to choose right no- okay, okay, okay!” He ducked as she tossed pillows at him. Kyle gave thought to a name as he watched Rachael flit around the room holding fabric samples and stained blocks of wood next to the different colors they were testing on the walls. His heart tightened as he thought how ephemeral her life was compared to his own. And she was the mother of his child. His daughter... His heart felt like it was being squeezed. What were they bringing into the world? Would the child of a fae and a human – magic touched, at that – be accepted by this world? Would she be happy?

The gentle sound of Rachael’s voice cut through his jumbled thoughts. Her sweet voice was humming a wordless lullaby as her hands strayed every so often to her belly. Kyle was reminded of the tuneless songs his own mother used to sing. He thought of the human parents who had raised a strange Changeling as their own, ages and ages ago. Not once had he ever felt as though he did not belong – his parents had loved him too well to let that happen. His daughter...

“Dealande.”

It was barely whispered, but Rachael heard it. She looked at her husband with understanding.

“Kina Dealande Nivens. It’s perfect.”

April 22, 1983 – Part B

“Isn’t she perfect?”

The gut-wrenching horror of a life lost before it had drawn its first breath already felt like a nightmare long since passed. Rachael sat up in bed with astonishment, joy, and relief mingling on her face as she cradled the sleeping baby. Kyle sat next to her, his one arm settled gently around his wife’s shoulders while the other had been frozen in place ever since that tiny hand had caught hold of his index finger. Baby Kina had been washed up and swaddled in the violet-print baby blanket that had been waiting for her, but she still had that slightly scrunched and blotchy newborn look.

“Absolutely perfect,” Kyle answered softly. He leaned over to kiss Rachael for perhaps the thousandth time since their daughter had made her dramatic entrance into the world. At some point, they would move Kina into the nursery painted in bright green and covered with purple flowers and fluttering butterflies of rainbow hues, but for now they could not get over the joy of marveling over every tiny detail of their newborn daughter.

“She is so little,” Kyle breathed in wonderment.

“Mm. But look at how long her fingers and feet are. And that spine – Gitana says she’s going to get tall.”

“As long as that does not happen too fast. Perhaps we can see if the Institute has a spell to keep her like this?”

Rachael giggled. “I can already see she’s always going to be ‘daddy’s little girl’ hm?”

He chuckled in response. “Perhaps.”

As they admired the sleeping child, Gitana could be heard bustling around as she cleaned up and took care of other household chores. The midwife had withdrawn for the time being, giving Kyle and Rachael a chance to get acquainted with their daughter.

Gitana Ruiz’s timely addition to their household had been no mere coincidence. The lingering uncertainty of the nature of their unborn child had Kyle and Rachael seeking advice from the Institute. It was agreed that the impending birth could attract unwanted attention if carried out through the normal medical channels, especially if the child should express any unusual characteristics as the result of her lineage. However, the Institute lacked anyone versed in childbirth. They had several members skilled in the healing arts, but they were all trained and accustomed to dealing more with injuries sustained from the battles engaged in over the years by the Institute.

The Institute had just begun to quietly explore potential contacts to resolve this situation when Gitana came knocking at 8315 Swallowtail Drive. The compact older-looking woman’s suspiciously convenient arrival set Kyle on edge at first. Her single letter of reference helped convince him and Rachael otherwise, though. Margaret Lynnley’s unmistakable penmanship and referrals to things that none beyond Rachael would know helped establish the authenticity of the letter.

Rachael’s grandmother had a final vision several weeks before her death and had summoned her old friend, Gitana, to carry out this last request. A practiced midwife, she was also well versed in other areas – ‘witchcraft’ it was muttered in the small Mexican villages she had grown up around. In any case, Grandmother Lynnley’s letter instructed them to bring the old midwife into their household for a safe birth. Rachael welcomed her instantly; Kyle still had the Institute check her out before he would agree to her presence.

It was a relief to have the older woman around, once it was obvious that she was, indeed, there to help. Having known Margaret in her younger days, Gitana had stories to share with Rachael. Kyle would come in from his shop where he was building the baby’s crib and other furniture for the nursery to find the two laughing over some escapade of Margaret’s past. Those stories and the letter from her grandmother helped Rachael finally get past the grief that had stuck with her since her grandmother’s death.

“The future of this child cannot be seen - there are too many possibilities. However, with parents such as you, I have no doubt that you will be able to provide the foundation for a happy life. I truly wish all of you great happiness and joy.”

Besides the moral support and general help around the house that Gitana provided, she also instructed the parents-to-be how their powers could affect the unborn baby.

“This child, she is made of flesh and blood, but also magic. Yes,” the petite woman answered Kyle’s unspoken question, “your magic is wedded to the very blood and bones of this child. Maybe it will manifest and maybe it will not,” she shrugged, considering this an unimportant detail, “but it will be a part of her that she cannot do without.”

“Because of this, she is sensitive other magics, particularly those of her parents. You,” she spoke to Rachael, “your powers lie with the possibilities of the future. You must focus on only envisioning a positive future. Do not dwell on unpleasant visions. I will help you with this, don’t you worry.”

She turned to Kyle. “Do not use any powers of violence around your wife. That should not be a problem as I believe you have been removed from active duty?” Kyle nodded that it was so. “Still, focus more on the powers that you use to promote life, like the ones that have your garden blooming so full.”

“Keep positive, and let me do my part, and we’ll get this baby off to the right start.”

Those words echoed in Kyle’s mind as he tried to watch both Rachael and Kina at once. The last few days before the birth had been tumultuous. Rachael would be suddenly overcome with visions of her baby dead, carried off by monsters, or any other horror and she would panic. During those times, Kyle would be unable to feel his daughter, and the panic would settle on him, too. It was Gitana’s commanding presence and subtle powers that kept the worst from happening during those moments.

The birth itself had been extremely touch and go. When Kyle felt his daughter’s life force disappear during the labor, he felt as though his own heart would stop. Gitana’s biting remarks kept him from abandoning the spell he was weaving in conjunction with hers, but the appearance of the blue baby made him bitterly wonder why he was keeping up the effort.

“No! Envision life! Hope!” The midwife barked at the semi-conscious sobbing Rachael. “Don’t stop until I tell you!” She glared at Kyle before focusing on the baby.

“w- wa- Waaaah!”

There was a rush, then Kyle could feel his daughter’s life presence surge as the cry from those tiny lungs filled the room. Laughing and crying, he hugged and kissed his wife, the midwife, and his precious daughter.

---

Though his realm was not what it once had been, he still maintained control of this place. He never noticed the tiny pod growing on the nearly withered vine, obscured as it was by the dead leaves. Only when that which had been growing in the pod emerged, did he see. He puzzled over this extra one – everyone was accounted for...

Realization sent a dry chuckle through the air.

“A child of my child...”

6th Section

April 22 1988 – Part B

“Ah, there is the precious child,” Viktor commented as he joined Kyle and Rachael on the deck.

“Uncle Vik!” Kina shrieked as she ran towards him. She leapt up before she reached him, momentum flinging her through the air. Kyle frowned a little. He hoped it was momentum.

“Got you!” The vampire smiled as he caught the energetic child and settled her up on his shoulders.

“There. Now the royal Princess Kina can survey her kingdom. How do you like it, Your Highness?”

She dissolved into giggles and hugged his head, readjusting the feather in his wide-brimmed cap before answering at last.

“Uncle Vik! Uncle Vik! Did you see the horsey out there? It has brown and white patches!”

The child’s sweet, excited voice clearly enunciated each word and carried through the air, catching the attention of the other partygoers. Kyle returned their smiles with his own before turning his attention back to his daughter.

“Of course I see it. Who do you think was ordered by the King to provide such a magnificent steed for the Princess to ride upon as the Kingdom celebrates your fifth birthday?”

He lifted her high before setting her gently on the deck. Sweeping his hat off with a grand flourish and swirling his cape over his shoulder, he made an elaborate bow. “‘Twas none other then I, Duke Viktor! Please remember me kindly, Princess Kina.”

She laughed delightedly again, then returned the bow with a curtsey of her own. “Thank you, Duke Uncle Vik. For your reward, you can be my prince!”

“Now wait just a minute,” Kyle stepped in with a mock growl. “No mere duke gets near my little Flutterby,” he said.

“Oh dear, it seems the King does not approve. Ah, but this chatter keeps Her Highness from more important matters. Go try your new steed. The grooms down there await upon your arrival.”

Viktor stood and backed away, tossing a wink to Kina. She giggled again and ran down the deck stairs to the yard below. She slowed and approached the horse at a walk, unafraid but respectful of the creature much larger then herself.

“I don’t know who spoils her more,” Rachael commented as the three of them watched the child talk to the handlers (a little) and to the horse (a lot). “This is really too much, Viktor.” She turned to him with a smile. “But, thank you.”

Viktor gave a dismissive wave of his hand. “The Institute needed to have a meeting, anyway. Since it was called for this evening, I figured we might as well get together a little early for some fun before we have to get down to business. This tiny bit for her birthday? Just something I threw together, last minute.”

“Mm-hm...” Rachael was not fooled in the least. Viktor had transformed his mansion into a mock castle for the party. His collection of authentic period wear had been pulled from storage weeks ago and cleaned, sized, and fitted so all the guests would have a costume for the party. True, this collection covered a number of periods, but only a few of the historians noticed that discrepancy. Given that the birthday girl was dressed in a pair of purple pants, a lime-green striped shirt, and a pink tutu (all picked out by herself that morning), Viktor probably did not have to go to so much trouble for that authentic feel.

The old vampire was, in truth, nearly as enchanted with Kina as her own father was. The young girl had accepted the assorted individuals that made up the Institute, including a vampire, as matter-of-fact. She was a trifle disappointed when - after weeks of running around with anything black that could be stretched between her arms as pretend bat wings - she was told that ‘Uncle Vik’ did not, in fact, turn into a bat. (The news was broken to her by her mother, who decided things had gone far enough when Kina was spotted running through the Institute’s halls with some of Rachael’s black lingerie flapping behind her.) Viktor’s other abilities, however, made up for this otherwise grievous omission (to Kina, at least) in his claim as a vampire.

His collection of various artifacts he had accumulated from centuries of life as an aristocrat, from tiny jewels to suits of armor and everything in between, was another bonus in Kina’s eyes. She would listen raptly to the stories attached to each item – this, from a soiree from days long past; that, involved in an encounter with some fantastical creature. Viktor enjoyed having such a good audience for his stories while Kina loved that she got to play with many of these things, despite her parents’ protests.

“Bah. These things are of no use just sitting around,” Viktor had responded to them, once. “Better to be used and enjoyed then gather dust.” Rachael and Kyle had finally relented on the condition that nothing magical crossed her hands. Even today, Viktor had pulled out a small silver tiara that glistened in the late afternoon light against Kina’s jet-black hair.

“She’s got a lot of her father’s looks,” Viktor commented as he and her parents watched Kina convince the horse’s handlers that she was ready to go faster. Kyle fidgeted as the handlers stared to jog and the horse carrying his daughter broke into a trot. After several bounces, though, Kina was moving her body in time with the horse’s movements and grinning from ear to ear.

“Ah, but I see that she has Rachel’s adventurous nature,” the vampire added with a wry grin.

“Pity me, in charge of two such impetuous women...” Kyle ducked away as Rachael came after him.

Having subdued Kyle for the moment, Rachael returned to the discussion at hand. “She does have a lot of her father in her.” She grinned impishly. “I always did think that Kyle would have made a pretty girl after that one costume party,” Viktor and Rachael shared a laugh as Kyle raised his hands to his face in mock embarrassment. “Kina’s proof that I was right.”

The young girl did, indeed, resemble her father in many ways. Her delicate features, dark skin, black hair, and those impossibly brilliant blue eyes left no question to their relationship. It was generally agreed upon that her smile matched her mother’s, and Kyle argued that her nose came from Rachael as well, but otherwise she was as her mother just said – a female version of Kyle.

“And, whose powers did she inherit?” Viktor watched Kyle out of the corner of his eyes, waiting to see if his reaction would be different this time.

“Oh, she is still too young to say for certain that she has...” He trailed off at the looks his friend and his wife were giving him.

Pointing to a large container pot with a small blooming lilac tree on the corner of the deck, Viktor commented, “That lilac was quite shriveled earlier. I was set to have it removed. Then, while we were greeting the guests, I notice the youngling over there talking to the plant. And now...” The rich scent of the pale purple flowers attested to the plant’s current healthy state.

“I find myself wondering why you would still have out a plant in such poor condition right before a gathering,” Kyle returned icily.

Rachael gave a helpless glance to Viktor. Her husband had been so stubborn in regards to discussing Kina’s abilities. Rachael generally would drop the debate at home before it turned into a full-blown argument. Tonight, however, she had Viktor’s assistance plus a crowd of people – Kyle was unlikely to allow himself to lose his temper in front of them.

“She does very well with living plants,” Rachael answered Viktor, ignoring the look Kyle shot her. “She has some influence with animals, too, though it appears to be minor. And, she seems to have a very good grasp on weather prediction, though she has not shown any ability to influence it.”

“Rach...”

“Kyle, we can’t ignore the facts, even if you were hoping otherwise.”

Viktor nodded slowly as he considered what Rachael told him. “Hm, so perhaps some of your foresight ability has passed to her in regards to her weather sensitivity. Kyle has some influence with plants, but I would think his more dominant storm abilities would take precedence.”

“My... the one who birthed me seemed to have skill with earth and plant magics,” Kyle said, resigning himself to the discussion. “Although, I only witnessed this once, mind you.”

“And could you fly before you had most of your powers sealed?” Viktor looked his friend straight in the eyes. “I saw your face earlier, and yes, that was not just a running jump. I did not so much as catch her as pluck her down from the air.”

Kyle shook his head. “The only time I could fly was when I possessed those wings. I do not know how she is doing that.”

“Is she aware, even, that her father is not human?” Viktor asked, not unkindly.

“No. I...” Kyle trailed off, unable to put his fear into words.

“She thinks the world of you, you know. Whether you are human or not will not make an ounce of difference to your daughter.”

Kyle did not respond to Viktor’s pronouncement, keeping his eyes fixed on his daughter.

All three were silent for a moment, each lost in their own thoughts as they watched the young child continue to enjoy her ride (back to a walk at the request of the exhausted handlers) around the property. Kina caught sight of them watching her and vigorously waved, a huge grin plastered across her face.

“She should be tested and trained, at the very least,” Viktor stated flatly as he waved back.

“But, she is still just a child!” Kyle protested.

“It is because she is a child that she should be trained. She needs to be able to control her powers before they grow any stronger, especially if she is to attend school.”

Viktor sighed as he caught the look exchanged between Kina’s parents. Clearly this was another point of contention between them. A squeal and giggle from below pulled his attention back to focus of the conversation. One of the handlers was pantomiming falling into a feint as Kina sweetly tried to convince them to let her go fast again.

“We will discuss this more tonight.” Viktor softened his words with a toothy smile. “For now, I have a birthday girl to spoil.” He vaulted off the deck and signaled to one of the men below. A few moments later, a lively chestnut mare was led from the stables. Viktor expertly swung himself up into the saddle then helped Kina settle into the seat in front of him. With a slight shift in his weight, they were off – at a walk as he made sure his favorite horse was properly warmed up, then a trot, and then faster. He guided the steed to a series of hedges had been cut purposefully low. Horse and rider had navigated this course countless times and each jump was effortlessly perfect.

“She really should have a chance at school,” Rachael said, picking up where Viktor had left off. She turned to face Kyle, but he kept his eyes fixed on their daughter.

“She is getting a better education at home.”

“That’s not the concern, and you know it. Look around, Kyle! It’s her fifth birthday party, but do you see any other five-year-olds here? Or any other children for that matter?” She placed her hands on her hips as she fixed her gaze on Kyle. His husband danger senses kicked in and he tore his attention from Kina’s ride to meet Rachael’s eyes.

“Kina does not seem to mind...” His voice trailed off under pressure from her glare. He sighed and raked his hand through his hair. Rachael let her gaze soften and placed a hand on his shoulder.

“I think I now understand how Grandmother felt. I want nothing more then to keep Kina innocent of the darkness in the world – watch her grow up safe and happy, without a care. But, I also know she’d have to live in a caged world for her to be safe and she won’t be happy like that.” The corners of her mouth crept up in a wry grin. “Grandmother tried to keep me locked away and look how that turned out.”

Kyle could not help but to respond to her smile with one of his own. “Mm, as I heard it, you ran off with some good-for-nothing scoundrel, disgracing your family for life. I dare say your reputation has been a bit tarnished back in the Valley.”

“Shucks. I guess we’ll never be invited to cocktails at the country club there,” she said, not sounding the least bit regretful.

Rachael leaned against him as he put his arm around her. Kyle turned back to the action out on the mansions spacious grounds, but his mind was elsewhere. Rachael kept quiet as she watched his gaze focus on memories only he could see. He thought about how his own parents had tried to protect him from the truth; he still vividly remembered the results of not being able to control his powers when he needed to.

Kina’s voice as she chatted with Viktor brought Kyle’s attention back to the present. They had dismounted and were walking the mare around as they cooled her down from the afternoon ride. The child was as unafraid of the horse several times her size as she was of the vampire many times her age. The other non-humans at the Institute were accepted just as matter-of-factly. Even the small bits of magic she had witnessed (mostly illusions by some of the Institute’s mages seeking to entertain the child) did not strike the child as being unusual. Kyle suddenly felt foolish for thinking his heritage would seem strange or off-putting to a girl who was growing up among the fantastical. He watched as Kina and Viktor handed the horse over to the grooms and made their way back to the mansion. The child confidently held the vampire’s hand as they walked. Five years old and fearless...

“She does seem to be somewhat aware of her own abilities,” Kyle admitted. “I suppose, as long as it is at the Institute - and,” he stressed, “ we are informed of all lesson plans before she is taught – it would be in her best interests that she learns how to keep a handle on her powers.” He held up a hand, “Mind you, I am still not convinced that attending a school where she would have to be extra careful in her actions is a good idea while she is so young. If her control allows it, though, I promise I shall reconsider it.”

Rachael kissed him. “That’s fine. I never said we should rush into all of this at once.”

“I know, I know.” He grinned. “Your daughter just happens to have a slightly over-protective father.”

“Only slightly?” Rachael teased back. “I feel sorry for her boyfriends when she begins to date.”

“Boyfriends?” His wife laughed as Kyle clutched his hands over his heart and staggered back. “She just turned five! Please, let us not rush things. Hmm... maybe I really should see about a spell to keep her from growing up...”

“Daddy! Mommy!” Kina and Viktor had reached the bottom of the deck and Kina let go of her companion’s hand to go charging up stairs. She hit Kyle’s knees at full force and wrapped her arms around him.

“Did you see me? Did you? I rode the horsey! Both of them! And we went real fast! And we even jumped over stuff! I bet we jumped a gazillion feet into the air!” Each exclamation was punctuated by an excited hop. “Uncle Vik helped. A little,” she conceded as Viktor joined them. The adults exchanged amused smiles.

“I did see you. After all, I had to watch the whole time to make sure my little Flutterby did not get kidnapped by a certain Duke...” Kyle leaned over and picked the giggling Kina up. “Perhaps I should lock you up in one of the towers to keep you safe.” He tossed her over his shoulder and sprinted back into the mansion while Viktor gave chase. Kina shrieked and laughed, especially when the other guests began to take sides – some for King Kyle, others for Duke Viktor.

“Daddy, daddy, wait! That plan won’t work! Uncle Vik will still get in.”

The child’s clear voice brought the game to a temporary halt.

“Oh? And why is that?”

Kyle looked up at the girl perched on his shoulders, expecting an answer based on the vampire’s super strength or other abilities.

“This is Uncle Vik’s house. He has the keys to the towers.”

Laughter spread through the crowd as Kyle fell to his knees and shook his fist skyward.

“Curses! Foiled by simple logic!”

Viktor stepped forward with a smile. “This Princess Kina is most wise. I guess this means you surrender...”

Kina wiggled out of her father’s hold and stood in front of him.

“I am sorry, Uncle Vik, but you’re just a duke. I’m the princess and I say Daddy wins.”

“I thought you made me your prince?”

“I changed my mind,” she said cheerfully.

Viktor fell backward as the onlookers chuckled. “Oh, my heart! The Princess’s words wound like a knife.”

Kina trotted over to where he lay on the floor and took his hand in her own. “It’s okay, Uncle Vik, you can still be my friend.” She leaned over and whispered, “Daddy and Mommy would be sad if I left so I can’t stay with you. But,” she continued louder, “I’ll come visit any time you or the horseys get lonely.”

“A generous offer,” the vampire declared as he sat up. “The Princess Kina is fair as well as wise. Very well, we shall call a truce.” He stood and strode over to Kyle, offering his hand, which Kyle shook.

“Now, to celebrate this momentous peace accord, not to mention a certain charming princess’s fifth birthday,” Kina giggled as he winked at her, “let us all enjoy some cake.”

This declaration was met with a cheer and the guests filtered back out to the deck where a giant layered sheet cake, decorated with elaborate flowers of frosting and sugar-spun butterflies was being uncovered and prepped with candles.

“Not so fast, young lady,” Rachael caught Kina before she could run off. “Wash up, first. Look, you’re covered in horse hair.”

“Aw, Rach...” Kyle’s wife stopped whatever else he was about to say with a single look.

“Uncle Vik rode the horsey, too.”

“Yes, which is why I am also going to get washed and changed,” Viktor answered quickly, before Rachael’s temper could be directed at him. There were just some horrors even a centuries-old vampire would rather not face.

“Besides, I am the Queen and you are still just a princess,” Kina’s mom added.

Kina nodded at this infallible argument and did not push the point any farther, to Viktor’s surprise.

“So,” he said in a stage whisper as he stooped next to Kina, “the queen is the most powerful one here – even more powerful then the king?”

Kina nodded as she stared up at him, her blue eyes wide and solemn. “Mommy always wins, even when she’s not the queen.”

The two men laughed at the child’s honest observation. They quickly stopped as Rachael stepped toward them threateningly, though a grin was tugging at her mouth.

Viktor stood back up. “Enough. Let us finish doing as Queen Rachael commands so we can get to that cake.” He gestured to a passing servant. “Marie here will help you find something you can change into.”

Kina nodded and grabbed the woman’s hand, skipping beside her as they headed down a hall. Her parents and ‘uncle’ stood for a moment, listening as the little girl’s steady stream of chitchat carried through the corridors.

“If only there was a way to bottle that energy,” Viktor said with a chuckle.

“Kina has two speeds,” Rachael smiled in response, “Full throttle or asleep. At least today’s adventures will have her heading for that second stage early tonight.”

“She should be fast asleep well before the meeting,” Kyle added.

Kina’s excited shouts, presumably from the selection of clothes Viktor had prepared for her, interrupted them.

“I’d best go see what she’s into.” Rachael said as she headed down the hall. Viktor excused himself to change as well. Kyle returned to where the other guests were, tracking a couple of them down and pulling them aside to broach the subject of special lessons for a Changeling’s daughter.

7th Section

April 22 1988 – Part C

“Good night, Uncle Vik!”

Kina waved again from the top of the staircase, trying to prolong the time before she had to go to bed. One of her pig-tails had come undone and the silver tiara was sitting rather crookedly on her brow. The blue crushed velvet cloak that matched the lace-trimmed dress she wore was wrapped around her shoulders in a mimic of Viktor’s cape. She had already said ‘thank you’ and ‘good night’ to each individual who had attended the party, as well as every servant and, naturally, all of the horses. The guests were gone (quietly reconvened in a distant wing of the house) and the servants had made themselves scarce. Viktor was the last person Kina could use to stall and she was clinging to that with all her might.

“I had lots of fun! Thank you!”

“Pleasant dreams, Princess. I will see you at breakfast in the morning.”

“Um... um... if you want to stay up and play some more, I’ll make you my prince again!”

“That is enough,” her dad said as he picked her up. “Your Uncle Vik needs to get his sleep.”

“No he doesn’t – he’s a vampire...”

Viktor chuckled to himself as the conversation faded down the hallway, then headed to the meeting room. Several members of the Institute had just arrived and he spent time catching up with them. Those who had attended the part had abandoned their costumes for their everyday attire and everyone seemed to be in a good mood.

“Will the Nivens be joining us soon?” asked Tara, one of the recent arrivals to the meeting.

“While getting young Kina to sleep is only slightly less difficult then subduing a Class 4 demon,” chuckles met this assessment, particularly from those who had the experience of baby-sitting her, “I expect they will be with us soon. Do we need them present to start?”

“They should be here for our report,” Tara responded. Something in her voice caught Viktor’s attention and he nodded.

“I shall go see how the battle upstairs goes, then,” he answered.

Viktor silently approached the room Kina was staying in this night. He stopped before he reached the room, so as not to provide any excuse for the girl to further fight her bedtime.

“Time for birthday girls to go to bed.”

“Once it’s midnight it won’t be my birthday. Can I be up then...”

Rachael sat on the bed next to where Kina was tucked in. She brushed a strand of hair off her forehead while Kina rubbed at her eyes as she tried to stay awake. The child was convinced something interesting would happen the instant she was asleep and she did not want to miss it.

“The sooner you go to sleep, the sooner it will be morning,” Kyle said as he took a seat next to Rachael.

“But... but, we’re leaving in the morning,” she protested sleepily.

“Yes, but after we leave, we are going to visit Boreas.”

“The magic wizard man? How come?”

Kyle squeezed Rachael’s hand and took a deep breath before answering. “Well, Boreas is going to be one of your new teachers.” Kina’s eyes widened as she processed this. Kyle continued before she could say anything. “You have some special powers, just like Mommy and Daddy do, and you need to learn to be careful with them.”

They watched her as she thought this over. Slowly she nodded and looked at her parents. “So, I can do stuff as long as I am careful? Like, how you make it rain in the garden only at night when the newsman says we can’t use extra water because of the drought?”

Viktor could feel the heat from the look Rachael was giving her husband all the way out in the hall. Kina continued, unnoticing, “Or, how you just win tiny lotteries so you don’t have to give your name when you get the cash?”

“Er,” Rachael studiously ignored the look Kyle was now giving her, “Well, there’s a lot more to it then that. Which is why you need special teachers for this.”

“Oh boy, I can’t wait! I’m going to learn magic!”

“Yes, but only if you go to sleep,” Kyle admonished.

“Mmkay...”

Rachael pulled the covers up around her daughter and both she and Kyle leaned over and kissed her goodnight.

“Hey, Mommy? Daddy? Why do I have powers?”

Kina’s parents exchanged a glance and Kyle cleared his throat. “Well, Flutterby, it is because Mommy and Daddy have powers.”

“Why do you have powers?”

Rachael sat back beside her. “Mommy has powers because she’s a... a mage,” she fudged, using the word Kina had picked up and broadly applied to people with various talents, “and Daddy has powers because he’s a Changeling.”

“Oh.”

Kyle and Rachael exchanged glances, surprised when no other questions followed.

“Sweetie, do you know what a Changeling is?” Rachael asked.

“Mm-hm,” Kina answered sleepily. “It’s a fairy the lives with human people instead of fairy people. And... and they don’t have any wings so they look like people, sort of.” She yawned, clearly not fascinated by this subject enough to stay awake. “Uncle Vik told me stories...” Her voice trailed off as she drifted into that state between sleeping and wakefulness.

“Viktor did?” Kyle started to grouse, but Rachael silenced him, bringing a finger to her lips. Kina stirred a little and Rachael began to sing softly.

"Sleep, child, sleep
For you, the moon beams
To you, the wind sings
With you, the stars dream
Tomorrow will be soon enough
To try your wings
So sleep, child, sleep"

Rachael and Kyle crept out of the room, pulling the door shut softly behind them. They followed Viktor back downstairs. Once they were out of earshot of the sleeping girl, Kyle rounded on Viktor.

“Just what kind of stories have you been telling her?!”

The vampire spread his hands and gave the Nivens his most charismatic smile. “She likes stories about all kinds of magical creatures and I know so many. It is hard to keep track of what I have told her exactly.” Kyle gave a small snort, which Viktor ignored. “In any case, she does not find the fact that her father is a Changeling any odder then that I am a vampire, her mother is a, ahem, mage, or any of the other numerous facts that she has grown up with.”

“Now, we have a meeting to attend.” Viktor’s demeanor turned serious. “Tara is here and she has something she thinks the both of you should hear.”

Rachael frowned, “She was assigned to the Scotland cases, right?”

Kyle and Rachael exchanged glances at Viktor’s nod and hurried to join the other members of the Institute.

Viktor shut the door behind him and the conversations died down.

“We are all gathered?” Viktor looked around before continuing. “Then let us get this meeting underway. It has been a long day and I do not wish to keep you from your nice warm beds any longer than I must. We are warded, as always, from ears both magical and mundane. You all know the penalty for attempting to pass on the information spoken here to those outside the Institute.” The vampire’s fangs were quite evident as he smiled in response to the nods of assent from around the room.

“Very well.” Formalities done, he motioned to Tara. “Since the most recent activity has been in your sector, let’s hear what you have, first.”

She nodded and stepped forward as Viktor settled into a chair.

“As you know, we’ve been picking up changes along the ley lines that delimit one of the more active Borders. Given that several worlds converge on this Border, we went to investigate further to see if we could determine which world or worlds were responsible, and whether there was any threat posed to our own world.”

Her gaze flicked briefly to where the Nivens were seated before she continued. “A closer inspection of the energy signatures, as well as scry-work by Garrett and his team,” she inclined her head to several folk, “allowed us to confirm that some old friends seem to be testing the waters again.” The sour expression on her face spoke volumes about these ‘friends’.

She shuffled through some papers and passed around several reports. “You can read the detailed analysis if you like, but the short of it is that the Maelstrom Clan appears interested in this side of the Border.”

There was a small murmur and no few eyes were now looking at the Nivens. Rachael was a bit pale, but otherwise composed; Kyle’s countenance was steely as he skimmed a copy of the report.

“Any indication that they have gained a foothold in this world?”

Tara shook her head at Viktor’s question. “It seems more as though they were testing for weak spots. The branch in Corr sent a unit up to reinforce the Border from this side. There are indications that blocks have been placed from the other side, as well, by at least two different clans.”

“Do you know which clans?” Kyle asked.

“Not for certain, although some of the work bears a resemblance to that of the Lunar Clan. Given their history with the Maelstrom...”

Kyle nodded and returned his attention to the report, quietly discussing something with Rachael as they looked at the details presented. After a few questions from other members regarding the specifics of the magics detected and such, Viktor took command of the meeting again.

“The last time they made a move on this world was back in 1947,” he glanced at Willie and the diminutive historian inclined his head in confirmation.

“At that time, they were seeking to gain an advantage in their continuing war with the Lunar Clan and their allies by acquiring the prophecy skills of the Oracle.” His gaze rested for a second on the granddaughter of that Oracle. Rachael gave a faint smile back; she had heard stories about this battle many times from her grandmother.

“They either failed to take into account that the Oracle’s strength in foresight provided plenty of warning for the attack, or else underestimated the might of the guardians provided for the Oracle by the Institute. In any case, they ended up fighting a war on both sides of the Border once the Lunar Clan became aware of their attempt. The Maelstrom Clan was soundly routed and showed no signs of activity since then.”

“Given the long-standing nature of their war, and the rather tenacious personality of the Clan’s leader, it would be foolish to assume we had seen the last of them. I had thought, though, that their sound defeat back then would discourage them from returning to this world so soon. I certainly had hoped that the losses they suffered would have required at least a couple of hundred years to recover.” Viktor gave a small sigh of frustration, like a teacher disappointed by a poorer-then-expected performance from a pupil, before he continued.

“Even though there is no indication that any from the Clan managed to cross the Border this time, we need to take precautions,” Viktor warned. Only a handful of the people gathered tonight had been around long enough to remember the last encounter with this group of fae. “They are too dangerous a people to be dismissed.”

“Should anyone need convincing otherwise, I would be happy to fill you in,” Kyle added sourly.

“Garrett, I will need you and your team to focus your investigations on determining what they are after in our world this time. Taylor, if you can spare some of your psychics to assist them, that may speed things along.” The robed woman recognized the request for the command that it was and gave a wave of her hand in affirmation.

“We know they have crossed the Border at various locations around the world. Willie, I need you to get all records of these crossings to Tara. You,” he turned to Tara, “and your team will be coordinating with all branches of the Institute in monitoring for potential breaches from their world at these known Border crossings as well as watching for new openings.”

“That’s a lot to cover,” she stated mildly. “Even if I do get full assistance from the other branches.”

“I know. I will talk to headquarters and see if we cannot call in a favor or two from some of the groups the Institute has assisted over the years. At the very least, the Watcher’s Guild owes us one. In the meantime, focus on the known breaches. New crossing points attract more notice on their side of the Border; I dare say they will be trying to escape attention from the other Clans.”

Tara accepted this and turned to confer with Willie.

“Very well. Next order of business – Lopez, you have an update on that demon cult?”

The rest of the meeting passed quickly as other minor incidents were dealt with. People filed out quickly once the meeting was adjourned; some were headed home for sleep, while others were setting out to begin work at the tasks at hand. Only Rachael and Kyle stayed behind. Once Viktor had seen off the last member, he returned to where they waited. Kyle and Rachael broke off their quiet conversation as he reentered the room, bringing a tray of warm tea and some light snacks.

“I am sorry to keep you awake any longer,” he said as he served them each a steaming cup of the warm drink.

“Considering the news, I’m not sure I’d be able to sleep tonight, anyway,” Rachael said with a sigh.

“It is too early and we know too little to deem that their interest on this side lies with you. However, we should consider the possibility that Toirdhealbhach has renewed interest in his heir or, worse, learned about Kina’s existence.” Viktor’s face was grave as he spoke - an expression reflected in the faces of his friends.

“If he even thinks of harming her...” Kyle growled.

“He’ll be dead meat,” Rachael finished, her voice quiet but cold and sharp like a knife.

“We will be stepping up security around you and your house. If necessary, we can relocate you, although we will wait until we know more before undertaking that step.”

“I’d rather not move if we can help it,” Rachael answered.

“We both want a stable place that Kina can always think of as home,” Kyle explained.

“I understand. As I said, we shall wait and see before deciding upon that. I am going to have the mages set up some emergency teleport spells for you, however, as long as you are in your current residence. Study the maps of the Caverns and the Maze – those will likely be your best escape routes,” Viktor said after some consideration.

“In the meantime,” he continued, “you must be doubly cautious in using you powers. No more midnight gardening or supplemental lotto earnings.” Kyle and Rachael exchanged sheepish glances. “Your daughter noticed. There is no telling who or what else may have noticed, as well.”

“Finally, I heard you are taking her to Boreas?”

“Yes, he agreed to test her and start some simple lessons.”

“Good. It is imperative that she learns control now. If they are looking for her, it is best if she is not unintentionally broadcasting her powers for all to see. I shall make sure one of the warded workshops will be available for classes. You should see Boreas or one of the other mages, too, Rachael. It would not hurt for you to brush up on your abilities beyond the foresight.”

She nodded. “Already thought of that. Assuming I can get the time – I’ve got a feeling both Taylor and Tara are gonna have me on constant call for a bit here.” The young woman looked at her husband. “We’ve done some experimenting with combining our talents in the past. This is probably a good time to work on that more.”

“Very well, let us see what we discover and we shall go from there.” Viktor stood. “And now, I have other matters to attend and you need to get some sleep.” A small smile lightened the somber mood. “You will need your energy to deal with a child who is going to wake up all excited about learning magic.”

Kina’s parents laughed at that and made their way out of the meeting room. Rachael stopped at the door and turned to Viktor.

“If... if the worst were to happen... if something were to happen to us...” she looked him straight in the eye before taking a deep breath and asking, “would you take care of her?”

“Of course.” Viktor did not hesitate in his answer.

Kyle clasped his old friend’s hand. “Thank you.”

Upstairs and unaware of the night’s turmoil, visions of castles, kings, horses, and wizards filled Kina’s dreams.

8th Section

June 1990 - Part A

Never in my wildest dreams did I think these powers would be used for this, Kyle thought as he tried to maintain the appropriately concerned expression on his face while the principal droned on. Sitting next to him in a chair that was too big for her, Kina stared dejectedly at the floor. Clumps of dirt clung to her clothes and bits of watermelon stuck to her shirt and her hair.

There. Kina briefly looked up when she felt the subtle shift of power as the spell Kyle had been weaving took effect. The principal paused as if she had forgotten what she was saying and the teacher standing next to her wore a slightly perplexed expression.

“I am sorry this little incident happened, ah, but kids will be kids. So strange about those watermelons bursting like that – must have been fermenting out in the sun too long. Pity to have a tiny squabble ruin the end of the school year, but these things pass and everyone soon forgets.” The spell completed with that trigger.

“Ah yes, well,” the principal shuffled some papers on her desk then stood. “I guess that’s all, Mr. Nivens. Thank you for your time. Kina, have a safe summer.”

Kina nodded mutely, still looking at the floor. Kyle stood and gently took his daughter’s hand, leading her out of the office. He talked for a short moment with the other two parents waiting with their kids before taking Kina to the car.

The school had emptied out with the start of summer break. Back in the principal’s office, it was agreed that it had beena typical child’s scuffle, and sorry about the watermelon, must have been all those sugars rotting in the sun, the maintenance man-slash-gardener would be warned to watch the fruits better, and you kids have a safe summer. And the maintenance man-slash-gardener thought funny, I didn’t think the watermelons had even ripened yet, but he nodded and said it would be taken care of because he wanted to be on his way. And so, the incident was forgotten in the excitement of the long vacation.

“I don’t want to go back to school.” Kina finally spoke once they had pulled out of the parking lot, although she still would not meet her father’s gaze. Kyle glanced at her then gave a small chuckle. “Lucky for you that summer vacation has begun, then,” he said, trying to cheer her up a little. She just scowled.

Several more minutes passed and they turned onto Swallowtail Drive.

“Are you mad, Daddy?”

His daughter was watching him out of the corner of her eyes. Kyle parked in their driveway and shut off the engine before turning to her. She finally looked at him, worry evident on her face. A tear or two threatened to escape those big blue eyes and her lower lip quivered a little. Kyle leaned over with a sigh and hugged her, his planned scolding evaporating instantly. And she does not even need magic to do it, he thought with a wry smile.

“No, I am not mad. A little, disappointed, perhaps – Kina, you know how important it is to keep your secret...”

“I didn’t mean for it to happen!” Kina burst out. “Tommy was being mean!”

“I know he pushed you, and he was wrong to do that, but you still cannot use your powers against another kid. We went over this many times.”

“You used magic back there,” she sullenly argued.

“That is completely different, Kina. My magic did not make any watermelons explode. And, I would not have had to use any magic if I did not need to cover up yours,” he said sternly.

“I know, Daddy! I know, but...” Kina looked back down, the tears now spilling. “He pulled the wings off a butterfly,” she sobbed.

“Oh, my little Flutterby,” Kyle sighed as he pulled her over and hugged her tight. She cried in earnest, expressing the vexation of a child who has discovered the world is not as kind as she had thought. Her body shuddered uncontrollably as she wept into his shirt while he held her. The file kept by the guidance councilor called Kina ‘a sensitive girl’ – the councilor and teachers had no idea just how appropriate that word was. Although her affinity was strongest with plants, Kina was sensitive to the life forces of most living things. Feeling life forces becoming injured was an unpleasant experience for her; when the harm was caused intentionally, the cruelty of it was often too vivid of a sensation for her to bear.

Kina finished sobbing out her frustration and pulled back. “I’m sorry, Daddy. I’m sorry.”

“It is okay. Come on, it looks like your mother has become tired of waiting for us to leave the car.” Indeed, Rachael was coming across the front yard to see what was holding them up. Like Kyle, she had been informed that Kina’s powers had been used through the small coil of metal wrapped on her wrist. Since neither Kina’s parents or the Institute could watch over her in person while she was at school, they had devised a simple signal spell to let them know when the child used any magic and at what intensity. Today had been the first time it had gone off, and though it did not register that much power had been used, Rachael still fretted that some disaster had triggered Kina to disobey the ‘no magic at school’ rule.

“Is she gonna be mad?”

“I will explain things to her. Come on.” Kyle picked up Kina’s book-bag and helped her out of the car. He quickly and quietly explained what had happened to Rachael.

“...Then her powers sent a growth surge through the watermelons and turned the school garden into a small tossed salad,” he summed up.

Rachael sighed and gave Kina a quick hug. Her hand found a chunk of watermelon in her daughter’s hair and she pulled back. “Sweetie, why don’t you wash up and get changed.” Kina headed to the house after a few uncertain glances over her shoulder at her parents. Kyle gave an encouraging smile and wave of his hand motioning her to go on and she disappeared inside their home.

June 1990 – Part B

“So, was there any response to her powers from anyone or anything not of the Institute?”

Rachael shook her head. “It hasn’t triggered any immediate actions from anyone. As long as the adults at school don’t create a fuss or anything...”

“I used the first part of Paeramus’s memory shifter. Given that vacation is starting and these people are accepting of any reasonable explanation, it was not hard to make this an unimportant memory in their minds. There should be no fuss from that end.”

“Maybe school wasn’t the best idea,” Rachael said with another sigh. She leaned against her husband and he put an arm across her shoulders.

First grade had certainly been full of its ups and downs for Kina. The young girl had been delighted with having other playmates her age. However, the number of truths that she had to keep secret made things difficult. She had discovered the power of the phrase “it’s just pretend” when some fantastical story just had to be told. Her teachers often said Kina had ‘an active imagination’ as a result. Still, it was frustrating for the little girl when she could not explain why she got mad at the boy who said he wanted to hunt vampires when he grew up or why she was crying when the teacher swatted a spider in the classroom.

Not being able to use her powers, though, was the hardest restriction on her. If the apple in her school lunch was not as ripe as it should be, she could not restore it to a fresher, more palatable state. When she fell off the monkey bars, she could not use her ability to float to cushion the fall. And, in a playground squabble, she was not allowed to use what she had learned to protect herself to keep hair from being tugged and knees from being skinned.

“She has done far better then I think I would have at that age,” Kyle commented. “And, the older she gets, the more control she will have.”

“But, she’ll have more power at her disposal as well,” Rachael finished his unspoken thought. “If she snaps then, it might not just be a forgettable case of exploding fruit.”

“I am not going to subject her to those power dampeners again,” Kyle said with a frown.

“And I wasn’t suggesting that we should,” Rachael replied.

The power dampeners had been the initial solution to preventing Kina from unwittingly using her powers. However, they had an unexpected side effect of making her extremely listless.

“It’s because her magic is as much a part of her as breathing; it’s tied to her very blood,” Boreas had determined. “Take away her magic and you may as well be depriving her of the air she breathes.”

It was because of that experience, perhaps, that Kina had tolerated so much (until today) without drawing on her abilities. She did not want to go back to wearing those awful things. Rachael and Kyle had felt better about her not wearing them as well, despite that it was now all up to young Kina to maintain her control. “If something truly bad should happen, I would feel better knowing she can defend herself,” Kyle had admitted.

Kyle and Rachael settled down on the swing he had built which hung from the front porch. They gently swung back and forth in silence for a bit, enjoying a breeze that stirred the warm afternoon air.

“What do you think we should do about today?”

Kyle shrugged. “Kina understands that what she did was wrong. We shall talk to her again tonight to make sure, and then drop it. Although,” he said after a moment’s thought, “I am sorely tempted to have Garrett send that Tommy kid a nightmare where he dreams his limbs are being torn off... Doing that in front of my poor little Flutterby,” he grumbled.

Rachael gave his arm a squeeze. “It’s lucky for him that you didn’t know about that when you saw him at school.”

“Damn straight! I would have...” Kyle realized he had fallen for the bait as an impish grin danced across Rachael’s lips. “Do not say it. I know. I am wrapped around her finger,” he acknowledged with a wry grin.

“Mm. And what do you want to do about school?”

“Play it by ear, I guess. We do have several months of summer vacation to see how things progress.”

“Well, if you want to go back to her home schooling, I won’t protest so much this time around.”

Kyle grinned at his wife. “Wait, does this mean I was right about something?”

“Don’t let it go to your head,” she answered with a small chuckle.

“I must call Viktor and announce this momentous news at once- ow!” Rachael gave him a light punch in the arm and then sprinted away. Laughing, Kyle chased after her and the two let their worries slip away for a bit.

June 1990 – Part C

While Kyle and Rachael were discussing the day’s events and the future, Kina had changed her shirt and rinsed most of the watermelon out of her hair. She did not put too much effort into it, knowing that her mother would insist she have a bath tonight, anyway. When she was done, she made sure her parents were still occupied with their talking and then she quietly let herself out into the backyard.

This was Kina’s favorite place. Hidden by the giant privacy hedges and warded against curious eyes, Kina was free to be herself. She gently flew across the yard to her garden, skimming just a bit above the ground so as not to accidentally step on anything. One hand was kept near her pocket, guarding the fragile creature that was being kept alive by the tiniest thread of Kina’s own life energy. The child settled into her garden, looking around to make sure nobody was watching, and then pulled out the butterfly and its damaged wings.

She had been sorely tempted to mend the poor creature right when Tommy had ripped the wings off by using that mean boy’s own life energy to fix it. Even in the heat of the moment, though, Kina knew she would have gotten into heaps of trouble for using her power directly on another person. Instead, she had established the tiniest of connections between herself and the butterfly, siphoning off some of her own energy in an invisible life support system.

In the garden, Kina had ample amounts of excess life force at her disposal. The plants gathered the unmanageable (to her, at least) raw power of the sun and converted it to a usable life force. Plants were amazing to her, because they could store excess life force to use as they needed. In biology a few years down the road, she would learn about this as the production of simple sugars. The important thing, for her, was that plants usually had an extra amount of life force that she could tap into safely without causing harm.

“You’ll be able to access into this energy from many things besides plants as you gain control of your powers,” Boreas had told her on several occasions, but Kina remained dubious of the mage’s assurances.

Kina delicately placed the butterfly and its wings of orange and black on a leaf. Closing her eyes, she let her other sense study the threads of energy. She saw what was needed and tugged everything into place. There was a pause and then a swish of power. Kina opened her eyes, smiling at the monarch that danced in the air in front of her.

“Stay here and you’ll be safe,” she told it softly, before skipping back through the air across the yard. She reached the back door just as Kyle was coming out.

“Ah, there you are, Flutterby. How does a picnic and ice cream sound for dinner tonight?”

“Really?”

“Sure. After all, it is not summer without ice cream, is it?”

Kina looked at her parents’ faces. Neither of them looked mad. Relieved, she grinned and jumped up and down. “Pic-nic, pic-nic, pic-nic,” she sang as she grabbed Kyle’s and Rachael’s outstretched hands and swung between the two. In the yard behind her, the monarch joined the other butterflies flitting among the nectar-rich flowers that overflowed from the garden.

9th section

The Beginning of the End, April 17, 1992

Kyle started as he caught a flash of movement out of the corner of his eye. He whirled and looked out the window only to see the usual assortment of butterflies flitting through the late afternoon light in Kina’s garden. His daughter had settled in the midst of the flowers, her hair pulled back in a braid to keep it out of her eyes. Her brow was furrowed in concentration as she sketched the chrysalis hanging from the plant in front of her for her science homework. A doll, recently sent back by Viktor from whichever little eastern European country he was currently in, was propped up next to her – her only classmate for today.

Kina returned to the life of a home-schooled child after her tumultuous year in first grade. Rachael made a half-hearted attempt to have her daughter try school life again, but did not push it when the girl remained adamant. The way things had gone in the world since then, it was likely that they would have pulled her out anyway...

“It’s really more of a jungle then a garden, isn’t it?” Rachael had silently padded into the room on her bare feet, coming to a stop next to her husband by the window. He chuckled at her assessment of the plants that had long since sprawled outside the confines of the mini fences that had edged them.

“How are you feeling?” Kyle turned to his wife and kissed her brow.

“Like I’ve finally had some sleep,” she answered. “I envy you tireless supernatural types, sometimes,” she joked with a wry grin.

“Do not envy us. We just end up getting stuck with triple the work load.”

“Poor baby,” Rachael murmured as she leaned against him. Kyle put his arms around her and they enjoyed the rare moment of quiet. The past couple of years had a seen a rise in dark magic and foul arcane happenings around the world. All branches of the Institute were seeing their resources stretched to the limit as various powers stirred. Old enemies had resurfaced and new threats seemed to pop up almost every day. Locally, demonic cults had become quite problematic. About the only foe of the Institute that was not causing trouble was Toirdhealbhach and his clan.

“And that has me worried,” Viktor confided to his two friends before he left. With no further overt activity from the fae, the resources that had been devoted to that concern were being diverted to deal with more immediate threats.

“Maybe he has finally been dealt with by his own ilk; without knowing for certain however, you cannot let your guard down. If it were not for the fact that the Institute needs you two even more now, I would put you all into hiding elsewhere.” He had clasped their hands, and looked them both straight in the eyes. “If anything – anything at all – seems amiss... even if it is just a nightmare,” he waited until Rachael nodded before continuing, “contact me and I will come back right away. There are plenty others capable of handling some throwback Nazi vampire wannabes,” he added scornfully.

There were still no further signs of the fae after Viktor had left, however. Kyle and Rachael devoted countless hours to countering the demons, demi-gods, and their cults while making sure their daughter still received her education, both in academics and magic. Although they were careful not to mention anything around Kina, the young girl could still tell something was not quite right. Her parents spent a lot of time ‘at work’, the folks at the Institute no longer had time to play with her when she was there, and Uncle Vik had been gone for some time.

A feeling of unease would permeate into her dreams and disturb her sleep for nights on end, though she was careful not to wake her parents over it. After all, she was a big girl who did not even need a nightlight when she slept. Her dad had emphasized many times the need for Kina to be quiet during the day when her mom was napping. Kina certainly did not want to make her mom and dad mad and so she dealt with it as best she could.

She missed the vampire sorely during this time and would constantly pester anyone she could ask about when he might be coming home. Tempers of many of the overworked members were frayed and her mom sought a way to keep Kina from getting on the nerves of too many people. Rachael finally suggested to her daughter that she could write him letters about what she was learning (academically, only, in case the letters did not make it to the right recipient) and the Institute would make sure he received them. This finally gave Kina an outlet for her anxieties stirred up by the worried atmosphere of the grownups around her.

Viktor’s letters, postcards, and the occasional package would come back from countries all over Europe. Not only did these letters assure the young girl that her friend was all right, but they had the added bonus of encouraging her studies, which had slacked off a bit as her parents became more involved with their work. Kina strove at improving her reading skills so that she did not have to wait for Rachael or Kyle to come home to tell her what Uncle Vik had written. She would research the countries that his letters came from – this knowledge, like his letters, became a comforting connection to her longed-for friend. And, since she was limited to what she could tell him in her letters, Kina worked harder on her other subjects so she could share her progress with him. With her efforts now focused, her apprehensions and nightmares melted away.

“She’s carried that doll with her everywhere since it came, hasn’t she?” Rachael had turned her attention back to her daughter, who was currently talking to the doll while pointing at something on her sketchpad. Her voice was too quiet for them to make out the exact words, although her tone, inflection, and gestures set both Kyle and Rachael laughing.

“She certainly has Boreas down to a tee. Perhaps we will have her do impressions for the guests at her party,” Kyle joked. Rachael just sighed at that and he looked at her questioningly.

“Nothing... it’s just that she’s going to be so disappointed when she finds out Viktor won’t be here for her birthday this year. She’s asked him in her last several letters and though he hasn't said anything to make her think he’s coming, the idiot hasn’t flat out said ‘no’, either.” She made a face and Kyle chuckled.

“He is just afraid of being the bad guy in her eyes. I lay odds that, come her birthday, a mountain of overly extravagant gifts - which we will have nowhere to put - come from abroad.” Kyle paused as he considered the possibilities his friend might choose to win favor with Kina. “Oh dear, we may have to find space for a horse around here...”

Since her fifth birthday party, Viktor made sure Kina got to go riding with him for each of her birthdays, along with any other chance where time could be made for a ride.

Rachael giggled. “Naw, if he sent her a horse, he’d finally know whether she’s missing him or just his horses. He might not like the answer he gets.” They both grinned at that. Kina hinted at least once a day now that she wanted to go see the horses, usually saying something along the lines of ‘Uncle Vik’s horseys must be lonely.’

Rachael stepped away from Kyle and turned to the art-covered fridge. She rummaged through it, sighed, then turned back to her husband. “Are we bad parents if we get take-out again for dinner?”

“I doubt our little Flutterby will call us such. I certainly would not mind some Chinese.”

“You’re worse than Kina...”

Rachael grabbed the oft-used menu from the one spot of the fridge that was not occupied by Kina’s pictures, paintings, and drawings and passed it over to Kyle. He glanced at it for a moment before picking up the phone and hitting the speed dial. They put him on hold right away; no surprise at this time of the evening. Kyle turned partway back to the kitchen window, resting against the counter. Orange and black wings fluttered by. Those looked a bit bigger than norma- A child’s scream cut off his musings.

“KINA!”

Rachael was already out the door, moving with the supernatural speed of a mother who has a child to protect. Kyle cursed and followed right behind her, summoning his powers as he ran. Though it had been ages since he had seen those wretched things... I should have known as soon as I saw them!

By the time he reached the backyard, Rachael had already torn the wings off of Kina’s back. She scooped the howling child up in her arms and turned back to the house. Kyle’s stomach twisted as he saw the blood running from his daughter’s back. The orange and black wings flopped on the ground where Rachael had cast them aside. Kyle snarled and aimed a storm bolt at them, but the rising tide of power around them persuaded him that there were bigger concerns to deal with.

“Back inside!” he shouted to Rachael. They would mount their defenses from there and wait for backup from the Institute. Hopefully, the wait would not be long. His wife rushed past him - her face ashen white, her arms covered in crimson – and he slammed the door shut behind her, hastily setting a ward on it. It would not stop them, but it would buy some time. He could feel a swirl of power as Rachael added her own defenses to his. A dispassionate countenance settled on her face as the years of rigorous training by the Institute were called upon. This was just another job, requiring calm and focus. Kyle took a few breaths to steady himself, then began mentally running through their options. Just another job.

“M-mommy... d-da-daddy...”

Her eyes were closed tight and she clutched her doll close to her. Just another job... But, infinitely more at stake.

Kyle motioned Rachael ahead of him into the living room, while he guarded from behind. The living room gave them several physical escape routes, plus access to the first aid supplies in the hall bathroom. We need to get a signal out to the Institute. Damn it all, why have they not noticed?

He heard Rachael’s gasp from the other side of the swinging door that separated the kitchen from the living room. Kyle spun and bolted through the door, nearly running into his wife. She was frozen in her tracks; her eyes were fixed on the man sitting on the couch across from them, like a neighbor that had stopped by for a cup of tea. The unwelcome guest looked up; a cold smile spread across his face.

“Good evening,” Toirdhealbhach greeted them. “It has been a while.”

10th Section

The Beginning of the End - Part B

“Yes, it has been quite some time, indeed. And, what have the years wrought? Ah, they have not been very kind to me, but you...” He stood with a rustle of his wings, which looked more ragged than when Kyle had seen him last. His face, too, appeared more worn. The scar left by Cal’s hammer from so many years ago marred the perfect features of his face; still, that ageless elegance and haughty pride clung to him just as Kyle remembered.

“You certainly have done well for yourself.” Kyle immediately was in front of his wife and daughter as Toirdhealbhach took a step forward. The fae stopped with a dry chuckle.

“Look out!” Rachael’s screamed warning gave Kyle just enough time to brace himself as Pyt materialized – the impact sent him flying across the room. He rolled to his feet, gathering his power as he prepared for another attack, but none came. The serpent’s form wavered in the air and then reformed. He had changed as well since Kyle had last seen him, looking more like a gangly teenager than a young boy. Pyt faced Kyle, guarding his master’s back while Toirdhealbhach turned his attention to Rachael and Kina.

“Pity you chose a mere human, though you at least you found one with some power.” Rachael held her daughter protectively as the cruel fae advanced toward them. “Still, humans are such fragile creatures...”

“Bastard!” Kyle leapt forward with a snarl as he summoned swords of lightening, hoping to turn the fae’s attention away his family. Pyt met him partway and the house shook as their powers clashed. Toirdhealbhach did not even look as the two fought, confident that Pyt would do his job. He batted aside Rachael’s hasty spells as though he were brushing away cobwebs and drew a silvery dagger.

Rachael’s mind raced as she backed away from him. She was not strong in the offensive spells, and her defensive ones were clearly not much of a match for this opponent. There was still the emergency teleport that the Institute had set up for them, but she had no way to signal Kyle. Her strength came from her abilities of foresight; unfortunately, none of the futures she could see ended well. Still...

“Touch my daughter and you’ll die a death of unimaginable pain,” she growled. Her face was set like steel and the fires of a mother’s wrath burned in her eyes. Rachael let a feral smile creep across her face. “Yes, I can see it so clear...”

Toirdhealbhach knew where her powers lay and paused for a second as he checked for some interference or other change in the situation that could give her such certainty. “You bluff.” Rachael was already in motion, though. Shifting her hold on Kina, she lunged for the fireplace and grabbed the iron poker from its stand. Momentum carried her through the turn and the metal weapon struck her foe’s arm. He grimaced and reeled back with a snarl. She kept up her flurry of strikes, trying to press her way toward Kyle.

“Pyt!” Toirdhealbhach screeched a command. The creature’s tail came sailing through the air, hitting Rachael’s arm with incredible might. The poker was knocked from her grasp at the collision and she fell back to the floor.

“Rach!” Kyle surged forward, trying to reach her, but Pyt blocked him repeatedly. Kyle cursed. He needed the full force of his powers to beat his opponent, yet he hesitated using them, for fear of catching his wife and daughter in the storm.

Across the room, Rachael panted as she desperately tried to get to her feet again. Her arm was throbbing; she wondered dully if it was broken.

“Tsk, is that all the granddaughter of the great Oracle can do? Pathetic.” Toirdhealbhach sneered at her. Rachael glared back, taking some satisfaction from the visible welts her attacks had left on him.

“I had thought to just take the child and let you live, but now I fear I must repay you for these wounds.” He gave a regretful sigh, though there was clearly no remorse in his malice-filled eyes. Toirdhealbhach murmured something and Rachael saw the air behind him shimmer and twist as the wings she had removed from Kina earlier appeared. With a grotesque grin, the fae charged forward.

Kina awoke at this moment. She opened her eyes to see –
A scarred winged man attacking with a wicked-looking dagger...
Something with fangs fluttering behind him...
Her father fighting a monster...
Strange powers swirling all around...

Her eyes went wide and then shut tightly against the nightmare come true. The scream that ripped from her throat filled the room.

Kyle’s stomach lurched as he saw Toirdhealbhach attack his wife. His heart froze as his daughter’s scream reached his ears. Powers twisted as though caught in a net. The room filled with a blinding flash.

11th Section

Kyle rapidly blinked away the spots that danced in front of his eyes from the flash of power. He halted, shocked as he took in the scene in front of him. Pyt had shifted back and was helping his master up from where he had been knocked to the floor. The wings were motionless beside him. Rachael was staring down at Kina, then looked up to meet Kyle’s eyes in amazement. Around mother and daughter, a bubble of magic swirled. Vines and butterflies made of pure energy appeared and faded along the bubble’s surface as the power protectively encircled the two.

Rachael looked back down at her daughter. She had curled herself up as much as she could in her mother’s arms. The energy shield flickered as Toirdhealbhach brought his own powers to bear upon it. Kina whimpered and Rachael thought the shield would falter, but a second later, the fae’s magics were absorbed into the shield. The barrier strengthened with this influx of energy and the excess was tossed back to the fae in a violent pulse. He managed to deflect most of it this time, although he was still pushed back.

“Amazing,” Toirdhealbhach breathed, not the least bit upset with this unexpected change of events. His face glowed like a child that has discovered a great new toy hidden within the toy box. “Able to use her opponent’s power against them... she will be a force to be reckoned with.” He stared at the girl greedily.

He waved away Pyt’s assistance and the boy regained his position between Kyle and Rachael. Kyle mentally berated himself for not taking advantage of this turn of events to rejoin his wife and daughter, but now, perhaps there was a chance. Certainly the longer they could hold out, the more likely the Institute would pick up what was happening. The same thought appeared to cross Toirdhealbhach’s mind as he suddenly frowned.

“Get out of here while you can, filth, and you may retain your wretched life for another day.” Kyle held his swords at the ready, prepared to attack once more. His eyes promised certain death should he reach the fae.

“True, my people may not be able to divert attention from here much longer.” He turned back to Rachael and Kina. “I do not think the little dear can absorb the full strength of my magics, but, that would likely kill her and,” he heaved a sigh, “she is too valuable to me for that.”

He suddenly stepped away, his exquisite finery swirling around him. He grabbed a chair and sat down, keeping his spot between Kyle and his family. Toirdhealbhach reached down and plucked the wings off the floor where they had lain since Kina’s counterattack, settling them in his lap like a pet.

“I guess I just have to wait until she runs out of energy.”

Kyle narrowed his eyes. Toirdhealbhach did not seem too concerned about the time this would take. Rachael’s hissed intake of breath preceded the change. Kyle felt reality warp as their house was slowly enveloped by and pulled across the Border.

“Always have a backup plan – is that not what your own Institute preaches?” the fae said with a smirk. Rachael stared in horror out the window. Time passed differently on the other side of the Border; as the moments passed inside the house, the hours passed by outside. Ghostly figures began to fill the room. These other members of Toirdhealbhach’s clan would be solid once their house had fully shifted.

Kina sobbed and her shield faltered. Rachael began to hum her lullaby, threading spell power into the music. Her daughter subconsciously grabbed the power and the bubble stabilized. Rachael stroked Kina’s hair as she held her, letting her mind wander through possible futures. Only one offered a chance, but if Kyle did not follow the same possibility, his future would end.

“A backup plan would’ve been a good idea,” she sighed. She was careful not to meet Kyle’s eyes as she moved her hand to rub her wrist, passing it over the cheap-looking charm bracelet that encircled the wrist.

Toirdhealbhach stiffened, preparing for some sort of foolishness from the human girl, but she merely seemed to be attempting to relieve the pain in her arm from Pyt’s attack. He glanced at Kyle who still had the same scowl fixed on his face. Both seemed resigned to the inevitable fate that awaited them. He settled back in the chair, nodding to some of the ghostly figures as their faces began to take form.

Kyle’s mind raced as he fought to keep his gaze unchanged. The emergency teleport and the destructive spell attached to it would not work once they were fully engulfed by the Border – they had to move fast.

To the Maze in the south or the Caves in the east? The Maze would be closer to help, but they may very well be involved in their own battle. We would be on our own in the Caves; however, his clan lacks power over the stones.

In a heartbeat, he made his decision.

“I have always followed the sun, chasing the light and leaving the darkness behind. But the night always follows. I am done chasing the fading sunlight. Here and now, I face the night and push through it, knowing the morning is on the other side.”

Rachael’s eyes met his and she gave a slight nod of understanding. Countless hours of practice paid off as they simultaneously pulled their bracelets off and shouted the spell’s trigger word. Toirdhealbhach leapt toward Rachael and Kina while Pyt tried to stop Kyle, but the spell had taken hold.

The gut-twisting experience of the teleport was the most welcoming sensation Kyle had experienced all day. He could feel the heat from the conflagration as the second part of the spell activated and a fireball scorched his arm. The fireball ripped though the house and sundered the Border. Over the roar, Kyle thought he could hear Toirdhealbhach screaming. Just as quickly, silence replaced the noise and the chill of damp cave air banished the heat of the flames.

“Rach? Flutterby?” His voice was hushed as he frantically looked around for his family.

“We’re here. We’re fine.”

Rachael’s voice was weary, but he could hear her relieved smile. Kyle let a tiny amount of lightening flicker over his hand. It cast a bluish light in the narrow cavern they had landed in. Rachael sat on the ground, Kina safely held in her arms. Ash smudged his wife’s face and Kina’s braid had come apart, most of it burnt away. The bubble had dissipated. Kyle ran over to them, gathering them both up in his arms. They clung to each other for a moment before Rachael spoke.

“Can you give me a little more light? I want to see her back.”

Kyle strengthened the glow while Rachael gently pulled up the back of Kina’s shirt. Tracks of blood had dried along her skin. The two wounds were no longer bleeding, although they still oozed fluid. Kyle quickly pulled off his shirt, ripping it into long strips. They wrapped these temporary bandages tightly around her.

“Daddy? Mommy?” Her voice was hoarse and she shivered weakly in the cave air. Kyle scooped her up in his arms and hugged her tight. “It is okay, Flutterby. We are here with you.” He could feel the shudders pass through her lithe frame as fear, pain, and cold wracked her body.

“Th-the b-b-bad man... c-coming... j-j-just like...” Her teeth chattered as she tried to talk.

“Sh, it is alright.”

“We’re here, sweetie,” Rachael said softly as she brushed the singed bangs off of Kina’s face. “We’ll protect you. It’s gonna be okay.”

Kina struggled to sit up in her father’s arms. She looked around and her tremors intensified. “N-n-no... Have t-to l-leave... they’re c-coming... th-they always c-come in the c-c-cave.” She sobbed in frustration. “W-why can’t I w-wake up?”

Rachael and Kyle exchanged apprehensive looks. “Flutterby... have you had bad dreams like this before?” She sniffled and nodded. “A w-while ago. Sca-scary man and m-monster in t-the cave.”

“Oh, sweetie, you poor thing. Why didn’t you-?” She stopped as Kyle gave a quick shake of his head. Kyle sighed. There were a thousand things he wanted to say, as well, but now was not the time for lectures. He stood, pulling Rachael up with him.

“Can you carry her?” She nodded and took Kina into her arms. Kyle summoned his swords and stepped towards a tunnel. “Let us be away from here as swift as we can, then.”

Rachael’s answer was lost in the rumble of several tons of rock collapsing around them.

12th Section

The End - Part B April 17, 1992 Kyle opened first one eye, then the other, as his mind tried to grasp why he was not being crushed by the weight of several tons of rock. He, Rachael, and Kina were huddled against a wall of the cave, with giant boulders hanging in the air mere inches away. Kina’s blue eyes were open wide in terror as she stared as the massive stones that were pressing down on the thin bubble. Kyle could feel the threads of magic his wife was feeding to his daughter, but the shield was already shrinking around them. He gritted his teeth. There was still an opening to the tunnel; so close, but no guarantee that they could reach it. He nearly jumped when Rachael put her hand in his.

“When I say so, run,” she said quietly. Her eyes were unfocused as she watched the possibilities for just the right moment. Kyle shifted his body and took a firm hold of her arm as he realized her intent. Rachael kept a sure grip on Kina with her other arm while readjusting her stance as well, though she made sure not to make any sudden movements that could break her daughter’s tenuous concentration on their only protection. Kina’s breath began to come in short gasps and Kyle tensed as the bubble faltered.

“NOW!”

Kyle burst forward, pulling his wife and daughter along behind him. A blast of air, pushed by the collapsing cave, propelled them forward and the three rushed into the tunnel as stone crushed into the space they had occupied. Kyle kept running, uncertain of how well the tunnel would hold up.

“Ah ha ha...”

Toirdhealbhach’s laughter floated eerily through the cave.

“A good effort, I admit. I would even go as far as to say you have wounded me gravely...”

Kyle continued to thread his way through the maze of tunnels and caverns, with Rachael following close behind him. There was no way of telling where the voice was coming from, but there was no other real option – he certainly did not want to risk another cave-in. Rachael stopped at one intersection and gave a silent tug on his hand, indicating a different route then the one he was following.

“Sadly, I cannot accept such losses without, at the very least, getting what I came for...”

The voice seemed fainter. Rachael made several more changes in their course, eventually leading them into a tiny cavern with no exits. The air was silent save for the occasional slow drip of water from the tip of a stalactite. Rachael looked around and then abruptly sat down, her head bowed over as she held Kina close.

“Rach!” Kyle knelt next to her, searching for some sign of injury. She just shook her head. “I’m fine. But, we’re running out of options.” He saw the tears as she looked down at their daughter. Kina remained passed out since their escape from cave-in. “He’s not going to give up. We have to get her out of here.”

Kyle put a hand on her shoulder. “Rach...”

She took a couple steadying breaths. “We have to send her somewhere he won’t find her.”

“He found this place quick enough. Who is to say he will not follow us?”

“No, he won’t follow, because he’ll be occupied with you and me.”

“You cannot mean to send her alone to the Maze!?”

“Not the Maze, and no, not Viktor’s place, either – I see no safety at any of the Institute’s places right now.”

“Then...”

“Come out, come out, wherever you are...”

“Tokkec’s Valley. To my sisters.” Rachael held up a hand as Kyle started to protest. “There’s... a safe house on the edge of the Valley, where a friend of Grandmother...” she looked away and then back, holding his eyes with her own, “where this friend has been waiting – just in case I had needed an escape... I’m sorry I never mentioned it, but she had said...”

Kyle stroked her cheek then cupped her chin in his hand. She stopped her rambling explanation as he smiled at her. “Your grandmother loved you very much and was trying to look out for you. You trust this person to get Kina to your sisters?” She nodded. “And you see no other way.” She nodded again, blinking back the tears. Kyle looked down at his daughter with a heavy heart. “Very well. How do you wish to work this?”

She spoke quietly and rapidly as she outlined the plan. There was no telling when they might be discovered and they had to get Kina out before that happened. “She has... she has to forget everything.” Rachael held tight to her only child. “There can be no tracing of her identity, no finding her through her dreams... we need Paeramus’s memory shifter done in completion.” Rachael pulled the doll from Kina’s hands. “No reminders of the Institute or anyone from it. No memories of her abilities, the existence of magic, or anything non-human.” Her voice caught in her throat. “She can’t remember her home... or us.”

Kyle could barely hear these last few words. He wrapped his arms around Rachael, with Kina nestled in between them. “The spell can easily be removed when it is safe and we can be together again,” he murmured, refusing to believe in any other outcome.

“Do you really think you can hide from me?”

Toirdhealbhach sounded closer. Kyle thought he heard a rustling of air – there was no time to waste. Still... He leaned down and kissed Kina’s brow, whispering softly, “You are loved, Flutterby. Do not forget that.”

Rachael set their daughter on the cold floor of the cave. The two parents knelt across from each other, one on either side of Kina. Kyle held Rachael’s gaze for a breath, then nodded and they began weaving the threads of power.

“Ah ha ha... What do you think you can do?”

Rachael began to softly sing, masking their spells in the song and scattering endless possibilities to hide Kina’s fate.

“Sleep, child, sleep...”

“There is no escape for you.”

“For you, the moon beams...”

The song echoed oddly in the warped acoustics of the cave.

“To you, the wind sings...”
Nine years. A drop in the ocean of his lifespan. How did they manage to be so full?

“With you, the stars dream...”
They were both looking at the child who had filled those years. Every moment a joy.

“Tomorrow will be soon enough...”
They looked at each other. No words were needed.

“To try your wings...”
The song was almost done. The power hidden in the music was set. No matter what, the child would be safe.

“So sleep, child, sleep.”

“Be happy,” he whispered.

Epilogue

After The End

Viktor rubbed at his eyes. Never in the several hundred years of his life had he felt so old. The Institute had suffered serious losses this last week. His gaze fell on the doll propped up on his desk. Horrible losses...

A knock on the door broke off the endless depressing circles of his thoughts.

“Sorry to interrupt, Viktor.” Garrett stuck his head in and the vampire motioned the mage to come into the study-turned-war room. He helped himself to the coffee that the staff were brewing non-stop this week and dropped into a seat across from Viktor. Garrett looked as exhausted as the vampire felt. The mage took several swallows of coffee then sighed and looked at his friend.

“I’ve got bad news and more bad news. What would you like to hear first?”

“Start with the worst of it.” There was only one piece of news Viktor really wanted to hear about, but it would have to wait until the others arrived. In the meantime, there was no shortage of additional matters to attend to.

“Boreas is dead,” Garrett stated flatly.

“I am sorry.” Like so many of the Institute’s mages and other magic users, Garrett had trained under the wise old man. His patience and easy-going manner made him an excellent teacher in an area where haste and harshness could easily result in disaster.

Viktor made a note under the tally of their losses. That list was growing faster then any of the others.

“I apologize, but I need you to continue to act as coordinator for the mages. You are the only one I can trust with this right now.”

“Of course – I rather figured as much.”

“Thank you. I will have a room set up for you, here.”

Garrett nodded and continued filling Viktor in on their known losses and what he and the other mages had discovered in regards to the attacks on the Institute. The vampire listened closely, taking notes as the puzzle slowly filled in.

Besides the direct assaults made by the Maelstrom Clan, there were a series of attacks by other entities that had been encouraged by the fae. Most of the skirmishes, however, seemed to be the result of various groups taking advantage of the chaos created by fae-instigated attacks. If there was a silver lining to all this, it was the fact that Toirdhealbhach’s influence did not stretch to as many of the Institute’s enemies as Viktor and the other branch leaders had first feared. A small consolation given that the result was still the same, though.

Another knock on the door halted this conversation.

“Enter.”

Viktor and Garrett stood as Taylor and Tara filed in, the latter pulling a suitcase along behind her.

“Coffee? Tea?”

The psychic gratefully accepted a cup of tea, but Tara just shook her head.

“I’ve had plenty on the flight over, thanks.” She kicked off her shoes and sunk into the proffered chair, folding her legs under her.

“Sorry for the dirt,” Taylor said as she perched cross-legged on her seat. Her robes had picked up a fair amount of grime while she had worked at a particular site of conflict.

Viktor waved away her apologies and looked at her, trying to get some clue as to the news she was bringing. Her face was impassive as always, though, as she sipped her tea. His gaze fell on the doll again. It had required a thorough cleaning to remove the stains of dirt and blood from it. Do not get your hopes up, he scolded himself.

“Please understand, given the nature of the Caves as well as the vast amount of various powers that seemed to be brought into play that night, we may never know for certain what happened.”

Viktor could hear the unspoken ‘but’ and waited. Taylor set her teacup down with a small clink and looked Victor straight in the eyes.

“Well?” he asked, somewhat irritated when no information was forthcoming.

“At this point in time, it does not appear that Kina was removed to the other side of the Border.”

The vampire permitted himself a small sigh of relief. Not knowing the fate of any of his dear friends had been driving him near mad all week, although it was more bearable then the thought of Kina in the hands of Toirdhealbhach.

Viktor had used some rather unorthodox methods to rush back when news of a Border emerging around the Nivens’s home had reached him. He had arrived to see the burning house collapse while firefighters tried to keep the inferno from spreading. Garrett and Taylor had shown up soon afterward and the three did some quick work to alter memories and reports of the explosion. It would not do for the Institute to come under scrutiny from unknown parties at a time when they were at their weakest.

Garrett had managed to trace the Nivens’s escape to the Caves, but there the trail became muddled. Viktor doubted he would ever forget the cold despair that settled in his stomach when he picked up the doll he had sent to Kina from among the rubble strewn across the cave’s floor. He would have assigned everyone at his disposal to untangle the mystery of what had happened, but the losses the Institute had suffered meant he had to allocate only a few to this task.

Viktor had gone back to the Nivens’s home the following morning, salvaging anything he could find from the smoldering debris. Kina’s rocking horse and one of Rachael’s jewelry boxes, both made by Kyle, had miraculously survived the inferno. Other then those and a few tiny odds and ends, however, nothing was left.

“We had contact with the Lunar Clan shortly before I left Scotland,” Tara piped up, “and they firmly believe she is not in their realm, as well.”

Viktor raised his brow at this. Although they shared a common enemy, these warrior fae seldom communicated with potential allies in this world. Whether it was from disdain for humans, a lack of trust, or some other reason, nobody knew.

“Anything about her parents?”

Tara shook her head. “The information was passed quickly, with no time for questions. It seems their clan took a bit of a hit, too.”

“Very well,” Viktor said tiredly. “So, do you have any idea where she is?” He doubted that she did; otherwise, despite her usual enigmatic ways, Taylor would have given some indication that she knew.

“I’m sorry, but no. I can tell you what I believe happened based on the residual spells that Garrett has identified, but the interference from the possibilities that Rachael scattered plus the unknown residuals from the fae make this a guess, at best.”

Viktor nodded and she continued.

“We,” here she glanced at Garrett, “we are relatively certain that a transportation spell of some sort was used on Kina by her parents. I think a large part of Rachael’s placement of possibilities was to obscure where this place is. It is doubtful that we will be able to untangle the true path from the thousands of false paths that were established.”

“We’ll give it our best shot, though,” Garrett stated solemnly and Taylor inclined her head in agreement before she continued.

“We also believe that the full power of Paeramus’s memory shifter was used on her.”

“What? On Kina?”

“I had thought, at first, it had been used as a counteroffensive – maybe used on Toirdhealbhach to try to make him forget about Kina – but, even with the interference from Rachael’s work, I could discern the target. It was Kina.” Garrett stated this with a certainty that Viktor had to accept.

Taylor picked up the explanation from here. “I believe Kyle and Rachael erased her memory to protect her. So many of their abilities to track come from seeking their prey through dreams,” she curled her lip as she referred to their foes. “For that matter, almost all of our methods of tracking require that the one we seek have a sense of ‘self’ that we can lock onto. The one spell that doesn’t require this is the seeking through blood, but...”

“But, we had performed a scattering ceremony on her as a babe to prevent that from working,” Viktor finished with a heavy sigh. It was standard practice for all the Institute’s members to undergo the ceremony that hampered the use of an individual’s blood from being used in spellwork against the person who had lost the blood. A reasonable precaution given their line of work, really.

You take every reasonable precaution and what good does it do you? I should have never left them. I should have insisted that they come with me. I should have made them stay at my mansion. I should have...

“It’s not your fault, Viktor.” Taylor was watching him closely.

He snorted. “I thought you were not supposed to read minds without permission.”

“I don’t have to be a psychic to tell what you’re thinking,” she responded, mildly.

“She’s right, Viktor,” Garrett spoke up. “It isn’t your fault and you being here likely wouldn’t have made much of a difference. They appear to have been planning this for some time. If work hadn’t taken you away, they likely would’ve created a diversion so you - or any of us – would have been unable to assist.”

“I know it is of small consolation, but I do believe Kyle and Rachael succeeded in getting Kina to safety.”

Viktor motioned for Taylor to continue.

“There is a strong emotional impression of relief and gratitude in that cavern, from both Rachael and Kyle. I cannot think of anything that could have brought out that emotion amidst everything else... other than the knowledge that they got their daughter to someplace where she would be safe.”

There was a moment of silence as Viktor searched her face, looking for any sign that she was glossing over the truth to make him feel better. She calmly returned his gaze. He noted the dark circles under her eyes and the pinched expression of someone working with too little sleep. Viktor felt a twinge of guilt; after all, he was not the only one who was worried about the Nivens. Time to act like the leader that you are supposed to be.

“Very well. I thank all of you for your hard work regarding this matter. If we are fairly certain that Toirdhealbhach does not have Kina-” he waited for nods of acknowledgement from Tara and Taylor – “and that Kina is likely safe somewhere, then it is time for a change of focus.”

“I am not saying I am giving up on Kina,” he said, forestalling Taylor’s protest. “But our current avenues for tracing the teleport spell are nonexistent, at best. We do know that, even at full strength, that particular memory spell does not last forever. We may get a break as it wears off in time.”

He looked at Garrett and Taylor. “Right now, we still do not know the fate of Kyle and Rachael. Continue your work at the Caves for... I can spare you for another week, perhaps two, tops. If you do not have any major breakthroughs by then, however, we will have to channel our efforts elsewhere. Unfortunately, we have a number of other matters that need to be addressed, along with the Institute’s rebuilding efforts. I fear we will all be very busy for countless days to come.”

Viktor looked at the somber faces of his associates – his friends. “Rest assured, though, I am not giving up on any of the missing. We will find every one of them, I swear it.” What condition they might find their missing in, he left unsaid.

His face shifted as he gave a menacing grin. “And, we will make sure these attacks do not go unpunished.” There were murmurs of assent from the others.

“But, for now...” Viktor stood and gestured to them. “You all need a good night’s rest. I have rooms ready for everyone. Sleep and we will start anew in the morning.”

Garrett, Taylor, and Tara filed out of the study. Viktor spoke to a servant, making sure they would be cared for and then returned to his study.

“Uncle Vik! Uncle Vik!”

“If... if the worst were to happen... if something were to happen to us... would you take care of her?”

Viktor stared at the doll on his desk as the memories filled the quiet room. After a few moments, he took the doll and locked it in a drawer full of letters, photos, and drawings. The vampire headed out into the night – there was work to be done.