Gen 4 Chap 4.5 – A Kotetsu Original

Le Author’s Note: Bonsoir! Another life excerpt from one of the important characters in the Xavier’s life. I’ve had this written out for a while, but since Irelia didn’t win the heir vote, it’s just been sitting in a word document, I didn’t know whether to use it or not. But hey, I finally decided, why not? It’s a nice shake-up to the normal grind. Hope you enjoy!

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Irelia’s POV:

It was an early morning when I awoke. I glanced at the other side of my bed and found it empty. Stretching and yawning, I went to freshen up in the bathroom. I thought of something then; where did he even come from? What was his life like before he integrated into our family? Who is Kotetsu really? I decided to ask him and made my way down stairs to where I heard movement.

Kotetsu was in the kitchen like I suspected, making pancakes. His favorite food, and honestly they were supremely delicious. Especially when he makes them with fruit.

“Why are you staring at me like that? Did you need something or did you just want to see my pretty face again?” He asked in that flirty but not really feeling it today tone of his. I dismiss it and try to build up the courage that I thought I had before actually seeing him

“No I… um, well. I’m trying to– it’s like. Dammit… Where did you come from? Like, your life, before now?” Usually I’m more eloquent than that. He stared at me for a moment, that weird look I’ve gotten used to. It was him trying to figure out how to best put his thoughts into words.

“Oh. Oh!! You want an Origin Story! A Kotetsu Avril Original! Well kid let me tell you– no, let me show you. It’s going to be fun, tragic, and maybe even a little insane! All you have to do is take my hand and we can get started on this magical journey of… me.” He made of show of it, like he does when he gets uncomfortable, but I guess I really had to take his hand because he didn’t move until I actually reached out my own. Then he yanked me forward into an embrace. With a quick snap of his fingers and a poof of smoke later, we were in a strange area of Twinbrook I haven’t seen before.

I also stopped being amazed how he could simply change the attire of someone when needed. Sometimes, mysteries can stay like that.

“Alright, where to begin, where to…? I got it! How about the beginning? That’s the best part.” “I’m all ears.” “Well you sure as hell should be. After all, you asked.” He said that last part a little darkly. He took a breath. “Before you start, I do have one wish.” I stopped him, “Shoot.” He got visibly excited there. “I wish you would tell me the whole truth in recounting your tale. No sugar coating or anything. Brutal honesty.” I saw his eyes flash darkly before him snapping his fingers and mumble ‘granted’.

“I… was normal kid. I had a father and mother. Only child. My mother was from Japan and my father was from France. When they met it was like, more intense love at first sight. I’m talking about, when they saw each other their souls knew they had to belong together. And, they did. A few years later, after they got situated in France, they had, you guessed it, me. And I was a happy kid. The happiest. Raised in a loving home, great parents who taught me right from wrong and who loved me unconditionally. I loved everything from my cultures. The Japanese and French arts and cuisines mainly. Anyway, fast forward through the wonder years and the kid was now a teenager. I had friends, they thought I was cool that I could speak two languages fluently. And to be fair, I was cool.”

“Kotetsu, I said no sugar coating.” “Yeah I know but nothing really happened when I was a kid, ya know? Nothing to note. Normal life, had a few friends, played with rocks and sticks, regular 1721 stuff.” “Se—seventeen—” “Save you questions for after the show please.”

He was pacing now, I opted to take a seat on the grass while listening, that year couldn’t be right, could it? I knew he was immortal but I didn’t know he’s been alive to see the Revolution. Not to mention countless of other–

“I mean, I had everything I wanted then. But I guess fate had something else in store for me. One wet, rainy night, as I was walking home from a friends’, I was almost mugged. I ran and they pursued, I guess they knew my family had some funds. For a long while, I was sure I was going to die that night. Then I tripped, slipped, and wound up maybe 100 feet down in a cavern where no one passed by during late nights, let alone normal hours of the day or night. I landed on my back; pretty sure I broke my ribs in a couple places. Very sure I broke my spine. I couldn’t move but you know what the worst part was? The gnawing feeling that I would never be able to see my parents again. Not the blatantly obvious fact that I was going to die alone, but seeing their smiling faces one last time. Telling them I loved them before heading out for the day.”

He stopped pacing, deliberated between hovering or standing, and chose to sit next to me. “I also noticed, while I was dying on the ground that I landed in something sticky. And whatever crevice I fell down smelled sweet, like honey suckle and saffron. So I thought ‘hey, at least it smells nice’, like that justified the cruelty that befell me. I didn’t even curse the gods or anything, I just laid there in pain, tears streaming down may face, wishing to be home, wishing to be in my mama’s embrace, safe from the world. Then the hissing sound, then smoke that was pinkish and purple. And then his face.” He looked at me and I saw the sadness in his eyes.

“You know, I was made a genie, not born one. And being made one was not by choice. That Djinn who saved me that night saw a way out. A way to shorten his sentence of a lifetime. Although he was born one, he found a way to be cured of it. The only ingredient he was missing was another soul. Well, the heavens smiled down on him then, he got me. He took one look at me and started the ritual. And let me tell you, that transformation was not fun. It was like I was being burned by fire-less smoke for a few hours. I screamed through it, the pain was unlike anything I had ever felt and while that was happening, he was explaining what was going on and what my new fate was. I hated it. Bound to a lamp for the rest of eternity? Being a servant for the rest of my life to whoever finds the artifact? I would’ve rather been dead. But at least I was healed when I was transformed. At least I got to see my parents until they grew old and died… I guess that was the trade off. I still remember his face… It was a long while before I even remembered I was a genie and capable of a certain extent of magic. I never used it until someone found my lamp. I’ve been owned by 99,999 people. You make the 100,000^th. And when you get sick of me, or you somehow unexpectedly die, I’ll be passed on to someone else, once again. Such is the life of the genie. Of me.”

“I thought we were bounded until the end of eternity?” I asked after a palpable silence. He looked down, hair falling in his face, and began playing with his bracelet he always wore. “Kotetsu?” I prodded.

“While that is technically true, you could always wish for the bond to be broken and to be rid of me. There’s a loophole.” He didn’t look at me when he said it. I could tell it pained him to even tell me that. I don’t remember reading that in his book either but I do remember seeing something like a tear where a page once was. Whether he ripped it out or one of the other’s, it doesn’t matter now. I fixed my glasses and glanced at him. He reminded me of an unwanted dog honestly. Once someone used him up, they threw him away. He would outrun his use, three wishes, that’s all everyone else got. Never really had a place to call home except when he was a child… and now.

I leaned over and wrapped my arms around him, giving him a very tight hug and a forehead kiss. He seemed surprised at first, shuddering at the sudden touch, but melted into it eventually.

“So, while I’m at it, buttering you up and everything, can you add my recipes to your café menu now?” I smacked him on his arm and got up. “Well if that story earned anything, I suppose it earned maybe one or two slots of your recipes in my place.” He smiled at that. A pretty smile that softened his eyes.

“Great! Let’s get started, like, now.” He took my hand, snapped his fingers and before I even knew it, we were back home. Kotetsu was already in the kitchen grabbing the ingredients he would be using. It made a smile come to my face watching him.

He was a tortured soul, but he never let that show to me, to anyone. He trusted me enough to be vulnerable with and I appreciated that very much. I walked in to help him in the kitchen, having a new found respect and understanding of the magical man I found in a junkyard lamp.

 

 

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*** I never actually noticed how tall Kotetsu is, he obviously got that gene from his papa. No wonder he hardly fits in poses haha!

Gen 4 Chap 4 – The Popstar And The Sad Man

Le Author’s Note: Welcome back to another chapter. If the images look a little different, it’s because I now use ReShade. Not much to say, enjoy. I also fixed Chapter 1, it was cut-off at the bottom for some reason.

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5 AM In Fall

“YES! WOO!”

Exhilaration from running. Why did it take him so long to do this? It gave him… energy. Like magical energy, energy he has needed for quite some time. He felt charged and that wasn’t from the runner’s high.

Ezreal felt the wind swirl around him. That wasn’t naturally occurring, he was doing it himself. He was manipulating the weather once again but only in this small area where his father loved to fish.

“Dad was right,” he puffed out. “Running gives me more power. This is AMAZING!” Yelling that last part because he knew no one was around. Ezreal had been hanging around his father more and more these days to help him get over his ‘issue’, as he calls it, and Ezra suggested running (after waking up at 4 AM to fish with him didn’t really work out) on one sunny afternoon. Ezreal took him up on that and it has been an eye-opener. Ezra also tried to help his son by getting Genesis involved, although Genesis had his own life to deal with, that’s a different story for a different time.

Ezreal was a powerful witch and he was always looking for ways to improve. Not because he was looking for a fight or anything, much too lazy, but, because he simply wanted that power. He wanted to be able to say he can and be able to prove it. His father didn’t have anything to object to about it, as long as he doesn’t cause any more trouble.

“Alright dad, I don’t even use this power like that. Unless you count all the spells I’m perfecting.” Ezreal said to himself. Relishing in the crisp autumn air. What will he need them for? Even he doesn’t know that yet. It’s been a good few weeks since the meeting of the random girl and her bodyguard? Why did she have a bodyguard again? That doesn’t matter, what matters now is the fact that he found an outlet, an outlet he can use to get better at his emotional control, better at his magic, and get a better mental state. He ruffled his own hair, smiling for one of those rare moments that are becoming more frequent. “Ok me, let’s run back home. I’ve been up since 4 AM and it’ll take an hour to get back… Man I need a nap.” He says to himself and gets ready for the run home.

***********************Somewhere On The Other Side Of Town***********************

In a small house where a pop star searching for answers and, a werewolf who would have preferred to be back in Starlight Shores at their penthouse, Aricelli was trying to gently wake Malen up. After all, he promised they would go searching for more information in town today and it was already 11 o’clock. But she was losing her patience. He always does this when he doesn’t want to do something.

“Malen~? Malen… come on, you promised.” She whispered while slowly reaching for his neck. Malen let out a low growl, shifting his body slightly.

“MALEN!” Aricelli yells and he lazily opened his eyes. “Why are you yelling this early in the morning?” He was fully aware of what time it was, but he wanted to push her buttons as she’s been doing to him the last few weeks. “Malen, it’s 11, you promised me we would go and–” He unexpectedly shoots up into an upright position almost headbutting her in the process.

“Ari, this is getting old and I want to go back to my cozy penthouse.”

“Oh but when you wanted to get Thai food that you know is bad for you, you demanded I let you eat it. But when I ask nicely for help…” Aricelli trails off, staring at the front door of this tiny home that she still didn’t quite understand how Malen got it, considering they were just in a hotel room a few days ago.

“Are you doing that face?” He asks her sensing a familiar feeling he would get whenever she was a little mad. “What face? I’m just looking outside.” She says talking out the side of her mouth.

“The face you make when you’re mad but not really. You look like a little pissed mouse.” “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

Malen glances up at her with tired, lazy eyes. As long as they’ve known each other, it came effortlessly for him to know her emotions, facial expressions, and almost every little detail about her. They have always been together since they were kids. He just never thought she would turn into what she was today, as he never thought he would be a guard dog.

He made a tsk-tsk sound with his mouth. “Ari, I know you. And I know you’re doing that face. Fine, where do you want to go?” He asks and gets up.

“Well since you asked, I was thinking we could go out for brunch at this cute little café I saw when we were out last time.” “Ugh, no, can we go to the library where there are no people?” “Then how will I find the dirt I need?” She asks calmly.

“Fine. Ok, this is for you. I’ll be seen in a cute, boxcar style, café for you.” He says but perhaps he was secretly happy on the inside. After all, he does enjoy tasting some of her weird drink choices. Most of them are too sweet though. Plus, the only reason why he’s still here is because he puts her happiness over his. Unhealthy? Maybe, but he might figure that out one day. “Just so you know, you’ll be doing the talking and asking the questions.”

“I believe I have already been doing that Malen. Come on, I want some Boba.” Aricelli says and practically bounces out the door. She had a feeling she would get a little closer to the truth today, even without the help of the sad man from Fairytale Finders.

***********************At A Boxcar Café***********************

“Ok, what do we have so far?” Aricelli asks aloud. Malen, eyeing her bubble tea, quite dubiously, answered absent mindedly. ” You have a strawberry too sweet something tea thing, and I have a normal caramel–”

“I mean about my situation.” She lets out a huff of air. “This isn’t a joke Malen.” Aricelli’s frustration simmered beneath her voice as she fixated her eyes on Malen, who suddenly snapped out of his bubble tea trance. “Sorry,” he mumbled, setting down his drink. “Your situation… let’s see.” He furrowed his brow, pretending to contemplate the pieces of the puzzle they’d been dissecting for hours. “You could, just quit?”

Aricelli rolled her eyes. “Sometimes, you drive me mad. Completely and utterly mad.” “I’m just trying to lighten the mood; you treat this as it’s life or death you know. For a famous popstar, you sure do like to stick your nose into things where it doesn’t belong…” Malen mumbled the last part only loud enough for him to hear.

“Maybe we should go back to the sad man at Fairytale Finders…” She trails off. Before Malen could spout out another snarky remark, he was interrupted by the nervous interjector of someone.

“E-excuse me, did you say Fairytale Finders? Perhaps I could be of some help?”

Malen’s eyes snapped to the voice, he almost lowered his guard but he could still smell some magical trace of witch on the person who just walked in on their ‘conversation’.

“Who are you?” He growled. “The owner and operator of this café you enjoy to complain about. Excuse the intrusion, my name is Irelia Xavier and I believe I could prove to be of some use.

Aricelli’s eyes lit up as Irelia spoke. She could feel herself getting one step closer to the truth. “Well, spill it! Don’t keep me in suspense!” Aricelli spouted. Irelia squinted her eyes ever so slightly. She could’ve sworn she’s seen her face somewhere before… like the news? Maybe, it doesn’t matter. What matters now is that they met her recluse of a brother and maybe they can help her, help them, help him.

“That was my brother you met. The only person uhm, working at Fairytale? I don’t even know if what he’s doing is considered work. Either way, I’m somewhat of an alchemist and I have a potion I’ve been meaning to try out. The only thing is, I can’t get my brother to drink it for me.”

“What does that have to do with us? Why should we care if your weirdo of an annoyance –” “Malen, don’t interrupt! Go on Irelia, we’re listening.” “You mean you’re listening.” Malen says under his breath and sips his drink, obviously not interested in anything else Irelia had to say. “Basically, I need my brother to go back to the way he was before… his thing happened. I miss the old him.” “Too bad toots, people change. We’re not going to help you change your brother’s personality. He’s an asshole for a reason.”

“He would help you then. If what I heard was correct, you’re trying to figure out if your parents are Storybrook’s right? Ezreal was basically obsessed with them when we were younger and I’m sure he really wants to get back into it, he just needs a bigger push.” Irelia says almost absent-mindedly. “His name is Ezreal…? I like that.” Aricelli muses to herself then regains her happy disposition, “Well, that settles it, we’ll help!” Mayhaps a little too enthusiastic there.

“No, WE won’t.” Malen states. He finished his drink and crossed his arms. “We won’t be doing anything concerning an ass of a witch or his annoying witch of a sister.”

“I’ll let you guys have unlimited drinks while you’re here. And I’m not a witch, I don’t have any powers.” Irelia says. Aricelli leans forward, trying to coax Malen with her eyes. It normally works and this time was no different, although he did try to put up a fight. “Come on Malen, the quicker we can get some answers, the quicker you can go back to the penthouse.” That sealed it, he let out a heavy sigh, shrugged and mumbled a ‘yeah, ok’. Irelia smiled a confused smile. Did that woman say penthouse?

Aricelli shot Malen a grateful glance before turning back to Irelia with a charming smile. “Thank you so much, Irelia. We really appreciate your generosity. Shall we go to your home now?” “Sure, Ezreal is bound to be out as he normally is these days.” Irelia states and turns to get the last customer out before she hung up a ‘Back in a Bit’ sign. Soon they were piled into Malen’s car and head to the Xavier’s home.

***********************The Xavier’s House***********************

“Did you have to follow me into my lab?” Irelia asks the werewolf, eyes following her every movement. Malen had many dealings with alchemists before, none of the encounters ending up friendly except say, two or three. So his natural distrust only grew when Irelia the witch wanted to make the potion away from prying eyes.

“Yes, considering it’s really sketchy that you wanted to make it alone, out of sight. My job as Ari’s bodyguard is to do just that, guard. Guard against anything that poses as a threat to her.” He says in a flat tone. Twinbrook has been rubbing his fur the wrong way ever since he and Aricelli arrived. Unhelpful witches, manipulative vampires, and now this woman who was the sibling of the unhelpful witch. A self-proclaimed alchemist since she couldn’t even tap into her own powers.

“Forgive me for being forward but, Ari… she’s a popstar right? My niece is basically obsessed with her music–” “Stop. If you tell anyone that she’s here, I’ll make it my second job to put you in your own personal hell.” Malen sneered. Irelia shrugged, she could figure out they were here under a not so great cover. She heard on the news a while ago the international sensation Ari stepped away from the spotlight to do some ‘soul searching’. Sasha threw an entire fit of her little preteen heart when she heard that. Imagine what she would do if she knew her idol was sitting in their living-room right now. Luckily she was at school and Kotetsu was out getting some groceries for tonight’s dinner. Irelia read a few pages of her book then turned to her cabinet to gather the ingredients.

“Mermaid tears and Eternal Spring Water, straight from the Himalayas.” Irelia said mainly to herself but the heightened senses of a werewolf allowed Malen to hear it as well. “You went to the Himalayas? Wait what even are those ingredients? I haven’t seen a mermaid in years.” He says, eyeing Irelia’s back dubiously. “It’s called next day delivery. Maybe you’ve heard of that.” Irelia states. She was getting slightly annoyed by Malen now. Even though he was a werewolf, and Irelia had the softest spot for his kind, she hated it when people where in her alchemy space. Unwanted hairs, dead skin cells, who knows what else could float into a potion.

Malen snickered. A little spunk coming from the meek witch? That’s interesting but he wasn’t interested in playing with her more. “Where’d you get the rocks?” “Gems. And I found them, well Spark helped.” “Spark?” “My dog. Surely you smelled their scents…” Ah, so that’s the dog’s name. Malen took a mental note of that. If he ever needed any dirt on Irelia or the people she hangs around (Shack witch), he could always ask her pooch. But then again, dogs are loyal…

“So Malen, I know you don’t really like strangers nor trust them at all–” “Correct, get to the point.” “I just want my brother back. His old self, and I can’t do it alone. I have family that have been helping but I want a more ‘now’ result. This potion is harmless, just allowing him to remember his virtues, values…” Irelia sighed. She could tell Malen didn’t care about her nor her brother, of course not, they were strangers. “Just, imagine what would happen if the person you cared about the most had a life altering experience and they were never the same as you once knew them.” She says and goes to mix the potion. Malen did think about that, what the path would’ve have been if the roles were reversed. If Aricelli wasn’t how she was so lucky to be. Hopeful, optimistic, bubbly… Everything he was not. He couldn’t imagine what Irelia was going through, didn’t care to analyze it fully. He just knew that Aricelli was his top priority, his self just second, his car, third. As long as those three things were intact, nothing else really mattered to Malen. He couldn’t afford to be dragged into other people’s petty squabbles, not anymore. Except, Ari pulled him into this with her. Malen shook his head, clearing the thought. As Irelia mixed the ingredients together, Malen watched her carefully. A palpable silence filling the room for a moment.

“The potion is done.” Irelia says, turning towards him, handing him the potion as well. “Don’t break the vial, please. This… this is important.” Malen glances at the colorless and semi odorless concoction. He shrugs and gingerly takes the vial.

“This will be in Aricelli’s hands. I’m just the messenger.” He says and he walks out of Irelia’s little lab back to where he was comfortable, back to Ari. Irelia lets out a breath she didn’t know she was holding. At ;east this might work in her favor, Ezreal tends to be severely skeptical of anything she makes for him and the magic he wields makes it nigh impossible for her to try out potions. But this one, she did a lot of research on it, how to make it colorless, odorless. Undetectable… to a witch. She hoped to the gods this would work.

***********************A t Night, Across Town***********************

Ezreal was taking an new routine night walk to clear his head again when he heard someone call out to him. He stopped and looked to the sound of the voice where his heart stopped for a fraction of a second.

“Alright this time I know you heard me. How’s it going?” The woman asks him. Ezreal was still having a fight or flight moment and didn’t answer he right away. “Hey, you ok? I know I probably spooked you but you don’t have to be afraid of me, I just wanted to hel–”

“You caused me to not have dreams. How’d you do that?” Ezreal blurts out. That wasn’t the smoothest thing to say, nor was it the thing he actually wanted to say. He wanted to curse her out even if she did help his sleep schedule. He wanted to run very far away from her. He wanted to be left alone and not be tempted this night.

“How about we start with names first? I at least deserve to know your name after carrying you home from the club that night. And for not peeking into your drawers.” She smiled at him.

“W-what!?” Ezreal’s brows furrowed. Did she just say…?

“I’m joking, but I do want to know your name. I see you around a lot.”

“Ezreal. And your name is Bea.”

“Bea to friends, Beatrice to everyone else and the way I see it Ezreal, you’re not a friend… yet.” She flutters over to him. “So tell me why you expertly avoid me any time you see me.”

“I’d rather not.” Ezreal adverts her gaze. He hasn’t gotten to the part where he gained his confidence back yet. Those are some demons he still needs to fight. Beatrice lets out a huff of air and resigns herself to withhold the big questions for now. At this moment, she’ll keep it simple.

“Ok, I’ll start small and tell you two things about myself. Is that alright?” “You can do whatever you want, I don’t care.” Ezreal says out the side of his mouth. How did he end up in a situation like this again so soon? Is this… a curse?? No, can’t be, can it? He was about to revisit a memory when he heard Beatrice say she lived for over 300 years.

“I’m sorry, what? No way.” “Ah so that got your attention. But it’s half true, I have been around for a while, 150 to be exact.” Ezreal furrowed his brow, a thought just came to him.

“What do you want from me?” That came out more like a knife than a question in all honesty. And to be fair, he had a right to be highly suspicious of this fairy. She was beautiful, seemed to have it all together, but there was an aura of mystery about her that made him uneasy.

“I want nothing from you. But your energy seems so… tormented. I figured you could simply use a friend.” Beatrice tells him, trying to sound as authentic without coming off as shallow soul with ulterior motives because the fact of the matter is, she doesn’t have any. She just sees Ezreal as someone who could use someone to talk to. Not a lot of people understand why Beatrice operates out of her heart majority of the time but she does, and that’s all that matters. She thought back to the night where she first met the man, him on the floor of a club he didn’t belong in, silently losing himself without him even realizing it. She saw into his dreams as well when she took him home. It was like looking into an abyss of fear and guilt. She just simply wanted to help him not feel that. If there was a trophy for most empathetic, Beatrice would win it, hands down.

“I don’t trust you, at all. You know that right?” Ezreal says, trying and actually failing to read whether she was genuine or not. Has he gotten that bad at this? He used to be a master manipulator. Wait, that’s not a good thing. An inkling in the back of his mind was telling him he could trust her though. But he didn’t know if he could trust that.

“Then we can start small, like I said before. I can swing by your office tomorrow after work. We can talk then.” “You know I have an office?” “Your dreams told me a lot, plus sometimes I see you walk to it. Perks of being a fairy, I can turn small.” Ezreal was still on the offense about allowing anyone new into his life. Although he never heard of a fae that could see into other’s dreams. Beatrice seemed friendly but she seemed to be hiding something or that could be in his imagination. Maybe he should give this a chance. Maybe he could have another friend. Besides Ezra has told Ezreal many times that a big support system isn’t a bad thing. He shifted on his feet.

“Please don’t be a weirdo, I’ve had enough of those in my life.” He says before turning away to continue his walk. “Don’t worry about, I’m the most normal fairy you’ll ever meet. See you later!” Beatrice says with a wave of her hand before flying off. She sure was fast. Ezreal wondered again what he did to deserve this. Besides his devious acts back in college, and that incident. He thought he was doing good in life, taking care of his kid, not completely skimping out on her life, hell he was even teaching her little magic spells. That’s good karma right? Was meeting Beatrice also good karma? As he pondered his past actions and their repercussions, Ezreal couldn’t shake the feeling that fate had a twisted sense of humor, intertwining his life with Beatrice’s in ways he couldn’t yet comprehend. Maybe he was cursed like that one girl said she would do to him. At this point, her couldn’t even remember their names so why should he believe he was cursed? One bad thing happened to him. One bad thing that turned him into a sad man. A sad man, who might have just a little luck left.

Gen 4 Chap 3 – A Little Bit About Sasha

Sasha was, in short terms, a happy child. At least, that’s what she thought and no one has told her differently. She had a dad… well, she had a father and a really fun uncle who seemed like more of a dad than her father actually did most days. But she couldn’t complain about that. Her aunt was pretty cool too. She taught Sasha how to tell different plants and metals apart, and how to mix them to get different potions and concoctions. The only thing she was slightly unsure of, maybe, was her father’s view of her. Did he not really like her? He seemed to avoid her growing up or was that her imagination? I mean, from the few memories she had…

He was there, glancing at her slightly with a look of… what could she call that? Fear? Dislike? A bigger word she didn’t know the meaning of yet? But, he  was there. Even when she was spending time with Ko-Ko, Ezreal was never far away. Always hidden just out of sight or sometimes completely. But she could tell he was there. He had a very energized presence… aura really. That’s the word her father taught her. He was a witch, her aunt too he told her one day but she didn’t believe she was, so she wasn’t? Sasha didn’t quite get that yet. And concerning her? Well, she might be one, might not. Her father never mentioned her mother, he completely shuts down all communication whenever she asked. Her other family members have told her that it’s a very hard thing for her father to talk about, to ANYONE really. He had a very bad experience, they would tell her. After a while, she just stopped asking. Maybe she could try to get closer to her dad and then he would tell her? There was an idea but before she could delve more into that, she was roughly brought back to the present.

“Earth to Sasha! You’re orbiting again.” Her cousin says. “Sorry Chris.” She says sheepishly, she knows she has a tendency to let her mind wander, and when it wanders, she doesn’t always reel it back in immediately. She likes to see where it takes her, it’s always interesting and sometimes scary, to see where it goes.

“Don’t apologize. Where you thinking about your dad again?”

“Yup.”

“Did you want some help trying to talk to him?”

“Nope.”

“But if you don’t ask for help, you’ll be stuck in this stupid circle.”

“She said she didn’t want any Christopher! Just forget it and try to beat THIS!” Shawn yelled, expertly getting a pebble all the way to 10 and her hopping to match.

“I hate when you use my full name Shawn.” “That wasn’t your full name, your full name is Christopher Alexander Grimm.” “Even worse. Kinda weird for my dad to name me after him isn’t it?” Chris says to his only and absolute favorite cousin. Sasha simply looked at her other friend playing hopscotch virtually by herself. She shrugged in response to Chris’ question and Chris shrugged back. After all, she wasn’t going to actually ask for help. She could do this alone, right?

“Chris, hop!” Shawn yelled. She is the loudest one of the group… sometimes it gives Sasha a headache but she wouldn’t tell Shawn that. Chris let out a groan and hopped, not as well as Shawn though, he messed up on 6.

That caused Shawn to burst out in a mass of giggles and laughter and Chris somehow blushed furiously. Sasha knew vampires didn’t have blood so that sight was a little comical. She even laughed a little herself. Putting her big, complicated thoughts behind her, she decided to fully immerse herself in her friend’s game. And they played all through the day and partially evening until Chris sulkily had to go back home to his parents and Shawn inviting herself over to Sasha’s house once again. That seems to be something Shawn loves to do, Sasha noticed. Not going back home, preferring to sleepover at her friend’s house almost every day. Shawn said her dad was never home and her mom left a while before they moved to Twinbrook. In a way, that comforted Sasha, to know she wasn’t the only one with a weird family dynamic.

Later in the night, when the girls were officially done playing with Sasha’s toys and dolls, Sasha scooted back and wrapped her arms around herself before letting out a sob like sigh.

“Shawn, do you think my dad hates me?” Shawn turned around to look at her friend, her very first friend she ever made in Twinbrook. She cocked her head to the side as if she was perplexed by the question then grinned.

“If your dad hated you, he wouldn’t be here. My mom hates me so that’s why I never see her anymore, after all, a train ticket is cheap. I think your dad, by my deductions, is… uhm, well maybe he doesn’t know how to talk to you? Or maybe he’s just dumb?”

Sasha didn’t think her dad was dumb… but she did believe he didn’t know how to talk to her. At least to some degree. Whenever she would ask him a question her would only look at her for a brief moment before quickly focusing on something entirely on the opposite side of the room. He sometimes asked her about her day at school but only if he was busy doing something like, casting a spell.

“I think he’s afraid of me.” Sasha said quietly. Shawn got a strange look on her face then it smoothed out after she thought about it for a while. She nodded in agreement with her friend then outstretched her hand to Sasha. Sasha took it and they both stood up.

“Look Sash, I’ll always be here for you. If you ever need any help, that you don’t ask for, I’ll be glad to help. I promise.” Shawn said as she wrapped her pinky around Sasha’s. That made Sasha smile and asked very softly if she could help her talk to her dad.

“Just ask him to take you to the park Friday, Chris and I will be there.” She said and Sasha nodded. After that little moment the girls both got washed up for bed and had a calm and peaceful sleep.

***Friday***

As promised, Sasha asked her father to take her to the park which he surprisingly readily agreed to. Sasha was taken aback but overjoyed anyway. She didn’t think about why her father actually wanted to spend time with her but when they arrived at the park, Ezreal simply sat on a nearby bench and watched them play. At least he watched for maybe an hour then nodded off.

Sasha thought her father looked… peaceful for once in her entire life. Which wasn’t that long, she was only 9, almost 10, but she did notice a change in her father’s aura. Ever so slightly, he seemed more relaxed. Was it because of Grandpa coming over more? She thought so and she was very grateful something was changing him for the better. It would be a few years until Sasha would actually know and understand why her father was the way he was but she didn’t think about that. She only thought with him being happier, maybe, perhaps even hopefully, he would be more involved in her life.

As Sasha played with her friends, she enjoyed herself to the fullest, even when Shawn sometimes cheated during tag. Or the times where Chris complained it was too hot to run around like maniacs and wanted to just sit and do nothing. It was a good time for all the kids. Twinbrook’s school system didn’t really believe in summer vacation, at least, the public school didn’t. But sometimes they got a week off of school just for a mental break from all the learning they had to do. When that happened, the kids all hung out together, being almost inseparable from each other. People looking on always thought how great it was for them to have each other. All three kids thought the same. But really, everyone knows that.

***

“Here we go again. Vampires, werewolves, and the sky pouring down rain.” Shawn says mostly to herself. Sasha was busy digging in the sand, quite proud of herself for getting this cloaking spell down. Normally it would take a few years to master but her dad showed her a quicker way: Find something to mentally hold onto, and just envision yourself cloaked in something you would need, like a blanket. For her and her friends, she chose something waterproof, on account of the rain today. Actually, she kind of made their whole play area waterproof and that caused this whole kerfuffle going on now.

“Say that again you wolf!” Young vampire Christopher was spouting angry slurs through gritted teeth at his most hated enemies currently. The Rockwell’s. A pair of werewolf sisters always accompanied by their older brother whom of which, Sasha had maybe a slight crush. Ok, a major crush. That’s why she was pretending to be busy looking for treasure buried in this treasure-less sand pit.

“I said where are you FANGS leech?”

“Uh-oh, that’ll really set him off.” Shawn mumbled, personally enjoying the spectacle playing out before her.

Mirabel and Elisabeth Rockwell were one of the few kids who actually enjoyed causing chaos in the school, though they never really got in trouble for it. The Rockwell’s were one of the more influential families in Twinbrook with their parents being in the politics of the city. Either way, Christopher didn’t have a positive view of them. And it is NOT because they were werewolves and he was a vampire. That was so last century.

Jack Rockwell didn’t care about his younger sisters causing mischief, after all, Jack was 14. Obviously more mature since he was older. He also didn’t care about the little vampire boy calling his sisters wolves… they were, in a sense. To Jack he was simply tasked to keep his sisters safe from harm and danger and from his observations, the little lilac haired kid only had the balls to spout insults from a distance away. Every interaction seemed to be that between them. He was very uninterested in that. He did wonder how he wasn’t getting wet though. That was impressive, he had a little respect for whoever could pull this off. If Sasha knew that, she’d be as red as a tomato.

“You and your little entourage of weirdos don’t scare us Chris. The loud one and the silent one can’t even do anything worth mentioning to daddy.” Elisabeth spat and her sister let out an annoying sound in agreement.

“Yeah all three of you are useless, let’s go Jack.” Maribel huffed and turned away with her sister following. Jack got out of his head and followed behind his sisters. They seemed to have forgotten it was raining and as soon as they stepped out of Sasha’s range, they were drenched. Jack simply put his hood up with Maribel and Elisabeth screaming about their hair being ruined. That put a smile of Chris’ face.

“Serves them right.” He said and after awhile, Sasha’s grew tired from a constant use of her limited magic and the spell broke. By then, the rain had let up a considerable amount and the trio dispersed for the day. Sasha was the only one to stay at the park, thinking about what the girls had said about her.

“Sasha. Hey, Sasha? Kiddo!”

“Huh?”

“You just going to stand out here and get wet all day?”

A nice surprise on a very wet day. Her father came to her honestly, much needed rescuing. If he didn’t show, Sasha would have probably been out here thinking for the next hour or so.

“You’re in your head again aren’t you? And you completely drained your magic… What in the god’s name were you doing?” Ezreal asked his daughter. She looked to his eyes and saw none of his normal disgust, malice, or distrust. What she saw would, for Ezreal at least, be called ‘concern’.

“I… was…” she started out very slowly. It was always hard for her to talk to her father but right now, it seemed extremely impossible. He was bound to judge her and go back to his old self. “I…”

“You were in your head again. Where did you get that from? Did someone say something to you? You have a tendency to over analyze, you know.” Ezreal did a little trick he learned from reading in his office. He stared into her eyes, something he trained himself to do, and he saw a slight blur and it got brighter. “Oh.” Was all that he said and waited for her to tell him.

“There are these girls… and their uh, well these girls called Shawn, Chris, and I useless and I guess I just…” She trailed off.

“You’re… not useless, you’re just different. And you’re learning how to control your magic.”

“Yeah but–”

“You overthink, you’re an introvert, you’re a funny kid who doesn’t know how to ask for help. I think you get that from me. You have an entire family that loves you and sometimes you might get overwhelmed trying to fit in. Sasha, you nor your friends are useless. You just haven’t found your purpose yet. Those Rockwell’s are all the same, thinking they’re better than everyone simply because they have money. Don’t let them get to you.” Ezreal for once, maybe thrice, actually sounded wise in his life. That made his daughter feel a little better.

“How did you know about the Rockwell’s?” “I have a few tricks I could teach you one day. But come on, let’s go home. I’m tired of the rain.”

***

During the end of summer, the Xavier’s decided to actually come together and have some fun. Of course they invited Sasha’s two best friends and enjoyed the weather and festivities. It was a good life for Sasha, one where she couldn’t complain. Everything was starting to look up for the shy and quiet girl who was slowly opening up. And this summer was just one for the books in her mind. Hopefully, she would grow up to be a normal member of society, even with her father being the way he is, and her family being slightly, weirdly different. Who knows what the future might hold.

Gen 3 Chap 28 (Finale) – The Boy and The Lie

Le Author’s Note: Generation finale. Wow. never thought I’d write out 28 chapters of 1 gen. I tended to keep them short. And looking back, I understand why I loved each heir so far. So! After this chapter (which I cried a little through… I really don’t know why.) it will be an heir vote. A few warnings: Time skipping in no particular order except to keep a slight time frame… Language, there’s a gif, and… blood. Long chapter.

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Winter, a year and a few months later from Ezreal’s disappearance

No One’s POV:

Irelia was once again, over her father’s house. Pacing, lamenting and ranting about her missing brother. It has been a long time since anyone has heard anything from Ezreal, not a letter or a call. A bewitching message or messenger animal. Nothing. Zip. Nada… It was still making Irelia furious beyond all belief.

“–and he just ups and disappears without a trace! And cloaking spell! CLOAKING! Jeez, are you sure we can’t contact the police or something!?”

Ezra has learned that although his daughter has been meek in many aspects in her life, when it comes to her twin she is the most outspoken person he has ever met. Though he is worried to death about his son, he has also learned of the ways of the world in his solitude after the kids moved out. They do live in a supernatural friendly-ish town but that didn’t necessarily mean the police were eager to jump on a case as… transparent, as this. And that was putting it lightly.

Ezra once again, explained this to his daughter (the level headed one he used to think) who was pacing quicker.

“The police won’t help with this. Especially if Ezreal has this strong of a spell going on. The most they’ll do is chalk it up to a runaway with a girl.”

“With our other dog?? Daaad.”

Well… he tried.

“What am I supposed to do? The same thing over and over? Just work at my cafe? In my garden? Make potions? Pretend everything is ok!?”

“I thought it was a bakery…”

“Kotetsu convinced me to change it.”

“Kotet– who is–”

“I just don’t understand how he can even FATHOM a justified reason to disappear off the face of the earth! And Sadie! He took Sadie! Spark is a totally different dog now! It’s like he had a personality change or something!! Why isn’t Uncle Genesis helping or Grandpa Henry with his–”

“Hey, take a breather ‘Relia. Now. I’m going to make a late breakfast. And I have a few things to tell you. Most important, your grandfather…” Ezra says after he got tired enough of her raving. He briefly wondered if she got that from her mother. Jasmine… huh, now there’s a name he hasn’t spoken out loud in years. But his mind was always filled with her smile. It’s the main reason he never dated or remarried for that matter.

“Fiiine. I’m getting tired anyway. Also, what about grandpa?”

“Why don’t you stay over for the night? This… isn’t pleasant.”

***

A few months before Irelia’s meltdown, Some where in Midnight Hollow

Ezreal’s POV:

This place is a fucking dump. I don’t plan to stay here for long though. I just needed a shelter of some sort… so I broke into this abandoned house. No one was really around in this town since it mainly came alive at night. And they didn’t particularly care who did what as long as it never came back to them.

I took out the huge book I brought from home about fairytales and read the same story again. My 18th time this year. Most of that was done on the road with Sadie… Doesn’t matter now, I’ll just bide my time until nightfall.

***

It took a while, but I found it. The place where this girl has been hiding. Hiding from me. Hiding from me with my orb she stole from me. Sadie helped tremendously with it. She refused to leave my side during this entire journey. Honestly, she’s the one who found out where the rat was hiding. In fucking dreary ass Midnight Hollow…

 

Briar.

 

I hate her. I thought it was love but I supposed it twisted into hate when I figured out she stole. The absolutely only person I told about the orb. ‘I keep it in my office.’ ‘Why?’ ‘To keep it safe.’ ‘Oh.’ Why did I trust her? Why did those eyes make me want to give her the world? Why now that every time I think about it, I want to… hurt. Hurt her.

 

Briar, Briar.

 

That pink hair.

 

Briar, Briar.

 

Those big eyes.

 

Briar, Briar.

 

The way she said my name when we–

I stopped right before the door. I probably look like hell but that doesn’t really matter now does it? She’s in here. I can feel it. I can sense… her long, pretty, soft legs. I can sense everything from her. Everything but what she planned. I looked at the door, stared at it for longer than I had to. Normal door, no magic surrounding it. No magic surrounding the area honestly. So why did it take me forever to find this little shack in a creepy town? Doesn’t matter now, I found her. After walking and traveling across the country… I found her.

Briar Fucking Rose.

I kicked the door down. I didn’t know what to expect, maybe projectiles coming at me? But I really didn’t expect to see her so calm. Just, looking, at me. Calmly… I hated it. I despised it.

“You could’ve just knocked and I would’ve let you in Ezreal.” That voice. That sweet, sweet voice. Siren call? Maybe.

“Where is it?” I question, not wanting to get into pleasantries or remember what she smelled like. Berries.

“Oh come on ‘Zreal, why not catch up? It’s been almost a full year.” I didn’t answer. That nickname she gave me… the way it broke me, I hated it. The power it held. The way it made me melt into her. I felt a little anger radiating off of her.

“My… orb.” I manage to say through gritted teeth. She smiled. She knew the power she was holding over me.

“You know, I never loved you, my heart belonged to another. You were very quick to fall for me though. It was cute.” “Why did you steal from me?” “Oh ‘Z, you adorable soul. I can tell you the tale of how I came to your sweet, little, filthy, town.” She said with a smirk. I shifted on my feet. Didn’t say anything, glanced around, eyes snapped back to her. She sighed and continued talking.

“I knew your family way before you even knew about me. That night you saw me walking? And you thought I was just a poor, lonely, lost girl… Almost romantic, but I wasn’t there by coincidence. I was looking for your family and what luck! You came out of your dad’s house, saw me, and took me in. Memory loss? Oh dear, you poor, poor boy. You fell for it. It was so easy. Memory loss, for taking away my bunny from me. I was going to go after your father but you seemed so much more gullible.”

I swallowed a lump that formed in my throat. She played me like a fiddle and I… let her. I knew that but I let her. But just because my uncle killed my mother and Genesis killed him before he could take away both of my parents? Why was it so easy to do that to me?

“You were so blinded by love. You didn’t even think about what was really going on. In your office, that’s it. The orb was in your office so I looked. And I found it, then I left and you never heard from me again.” She stopped talking, picking up a little doll, playing with it, putting it back down. A little blonde doll with a blue dress. Perfectly in tact. Like she thinks she will be in a few moments…

“Briar where’s–” “You don’t even know my name. I’m not Briar Rose.” She interrupts me. That almost surprised me except I read about it during my journey here. I was just so used to calling her Briar… “Briar Rose’s story is complete as you must know. She died, while still being in Happily Ever After. No, see, my name, is Zella. Zelladine to close family, Zella to friends… Briar to anyone I can manipulate. Nice to meet you!” She says cheerfully. “Who are you…? No story has you in it.” I say slowly, racking my brain to figure out where she belongs.

“I’m her sister, the never mentioned sister. And I killed her. I wanted what she had so I removed her from the world.” She says it almost triumphantly, with a smile, staring at me. She walked around her table and pulled out something from behind the counter. My orb. “I wanted to bring him back, so I could have my own Happily Ever After but… I could never get this to work. Is it some kind of magical—”

I was on her then. Holding her down with so much force from my anger that she could hardly fight back. I grabbed the orb away from her and jumped back up, moving back fast as she got up and ran towards me. There was going to be a fight and only one of us would be walking out of here alive. I’ve been practicing my conjuring skills just for this moment, this moment of life and death. I knew she wasn’t going to let this thing go gently. While we were grappling at one another I managed to pull back and call my bat. Although it caught her attention she didn’t stop her assault and charged at me again, this time shrieking. I took a swing and she fell. Maybe I did want to hurt her but I didn’t want to kill her. But before I could turn and leave she jumped up again, biting at my legs. Resilience, I’ll give her that. A thought came to me then. If I died here, no one would know. Another swing, and another, another, another.

***

She stopped moving awhile ago. I stopped hitting a while ago. Now I was just here catching my breath. Hunched over her body… Well that image will never be erased from my mind. Great. There’s blood and brains everywhere and I can’t sit… That’s ok, I’m getting out of here anyway. Gods, it soaked through the rug….

“Fucking… bitch.” I curse under my breath. Taking care not to step in any blood, I made my way to the door. I was almost there when I heard a sound. I stopped dead in my tracks and listened. The sound came again, louder. It sounded like… whimpering? Now crying. A… baby? Oh shit. The fear that gripped me when I turned around was nothing like the fear I had when I saw what lay behind that closed door.

An infant… Time frame was right. Almost a year… And we did… It had her hair. Or did it have mine? It was dark. I looked around the room, searching for something to carry… the infant. I couldn’t leave it here, unfortunately. That wouldn’t be right and would be on my conscious. Not to mention what dad would– Dad. Well, this is a fine pickle you’ve gotten yourself into this time Ezreal Xavier.

I found something to wrap the kid in, made a makeshift napsack to carry them on my back. Again I took to the front door, equally focusing on the crying infant and my steps to avoid blood. I tried to quiet the child before leaving, only succeeding when I started humming a lullaby. I’m sorry kid, I didn’t know you existed. If I did, I would’ve tried a little harder not to take your mom away. I would’ve tried a little harder to be a better human. I started making my way back to where I was being holed up, where Sadie was, so we could get a move on back home.

***

The early morning a day after Irelia stayed with their dad

Kotetsu’s POV:

I wake up in the middle of the night because… I just do. I’m not a light sleeper or anything, more of a night owl. I sleep all day and this morning, that was still basically night (It was 3am), I was thirsty. So walking… er gliding, I prefer not to wake the dog who would then wake Irelia with his growling, I spotted a very familiar color pattern. Navy, yellow, and teal. How the hell did he get in here without– witch. Right. Spells and whatever. Wait… Is that a baby next to– I’m just going to silently glide back up the stairs.

It wasn’t long before he actually got up. I was basically floating in Irelia’s room for about 3 more hours listening to the outside of the door. I knew that if she found out he was here before I had a chance to soften the blow, the entire house would come crashing down. A year alone with Irelia and you start to notice her little… habits. Her temper has gotten extremely worse though, so I try my best to relax her… It’s how I got the privilege of floating in her room instead of chilling in my super comfy, full of genie dust, no room to really stretch out, lamp… I hate that thing.

I slipped out quietly right as Ezreal was about to go back down the stairs.

“Shit… is my spell waning?” He asks himself in a hushed tone.

“Damn is that how you greet your best friend after a year? But nah, I just happen to have been up at 3 and went downstairs for a drink of… something, and I saw you. Came back up and waited.”

He didn’t say anything for a while, just stared, I was starting to think he zoned out until he asked:

“You banging my sister now?”

I broke out into a laugh which he expertly cover with another spell.

“Come on man, my magic can only be spent for so long. I need to recharge.”

“When did you get so good at magic? Control for one, an eternal cloaking spell for two.”

He didn’t answer and started to go downstairs.

“Who’s the kid Ezreal?”

A dead stop. But no answer. I sighed and turned around to go back into the room, but not before telling him to wash his face.

***

Around 10 I made them breakfast, my famous strawberry rhubarb pancakes, which I know they both actually love buuuuut you could cut the tension between the two with a meat cleaver if you tried hard enough.

“They’re delicious right?” I ask trying to lighten the mood a little. All I got were grunts from both. I sigh slightly. Perhaps I would need a higher power to help with this.

Irelia downed her pancakes, probably not wanting to be in the same room as her brother for longer than what was absolutely necessary. Yeah that was probably a good idea.

“You eat like you have somewhere to be.” Ezreal says after his twin gets up. The look she gave him would scare Death himself if he ever saw it. Ezreal didn’t drop his icy stare back though.

“I’ll be… in the living room.” Irelia states through gritted teeth and walks hastily away. I hear Ezreal do an audible sigh.

“I’ll clean up. Just go talk to her but be extremely cautious. She’s like a minefield now-a-days.”

“Oh. Great. Dammit.”

“This had better be good Ezreal. You don’t know how much I hate looking at you right now.”

“Hey, don’t act all high and mighty ok? Just let me explain. It’s… it’s long.”

“Then it looks like you better get to explaining.”

“Look, the girl… I dated… for a… *sigh* ok. Zelladine Rose was the girl you met about a year ago yeah?  Told you I met her coming out of dad’s house on my way back home and whatnot. We were dating, at least I thought we were. Turns out she was using me to get to the orb dad gave me which she stole–”

“Zella…dine? I thought her name was Briar.”

“Yeah me too. Turns out she killed her. They were sisters. Anyway she stole the orb from me, that grandpa had, gave to dad, then to me. I didn’t know she stole it until one day I was actually looking for it to test out some shit. When I found out she, and I knew only she could because she was the only one I told about it, stole it, I tracked her down. It took about a year, it’s why I left so suddenly, and why I didn’t want anyone finding me. I’ve been practicing that cloaking spell for ages and I finally got it down. The thing is, I used it nonstop for an entire year and I think I’m at my limits… Long story short, I got back what I lost so I came back.”

I listened in on the tale… I feel that Ezreal was hiding more than that huge secret he got upstairs but he has to be ready to tell. I also hear a very subtle, but audible ‘what the fuck’ from Irelia.

“You ran after a girl because she stole some stupid orb from you!? You completely cut off all contact from your family so could find her!? YOU HAD SADIE WITH YOU THIS WHOLE TIME AND YOU DIDN’T THINK TO CONTACT ME!?”

“You don’t know what the fuck I’ve been through Irelia, don’t judge me based on–”

“I can judge you because you’re my brother. My twin, Ezreal. What you did was stupid, beyond stupid! You almost drove me insane with this little stunt! YOU LIED!!”

“Hey, guys, maybe, calm down before you both say something that–”

“Shut up Kotetsu!” They both yell. I cringe a little, thinking of the sleeping baby upstairs. I really hope she’s a heavy sleeper, but I doubt it.

“Hazel couldn’t even find you! The strongest witch in the family! Spark was going crazy without his sister! He hardly leaves my side now! You are such an idiot! I should have dad disown you for this! You don’t even know grandpa passed!”

“Seriously!? You don’t know half the shit I had to go through! This orb is extremely important, my life– our lives were in danger because it was out of my hands! I was the one responsible for it! And don’t give me that shit about Hazel being the most powerful if she couldn’t even pinpoint my location. And what were you doing? Playing in your little bakery!? You know what, this is stupid. Talking to you is pointless!”

Somewhere upstairs I heard a pipe burst. I looked to Irelia who I could tell was about to go off the rails. I grabbed her and pulled her away.

“You need to call you father.”

“I’m not going to–”

“Irelia, shut up and listen to me, for once. Call your father before you destroy your already fragile relationship with your brother.” I stared into her eyes and saw them soften ever so slightly. At least I got one shred logic into her, she pulled out her phone.

***

Within a few minutes, their father was there mediating. Too soon I would say, I hope he didn’t speed. But even if he did, he arrived safely. I went upstairs to check on the pipes and Ezreal’s child.

When I peeked downstairs some time later, floating, I could hear the last remnants of their conversation. It wasn’t spying per say, I just wanted to know. Although what I saw broke my heart and I sat at the top of the stairs, just taking in information.

“Dad… dad… daddy…” Ezreal choked out. His tears were like a river and every time he tried to talked his breath hitched. “I… I didn’t…”

“Ezreal, you’re ok now, you’re home. I’m here. Just tell me.”

“I…. killed her dad. I had to. She was going to kill me if I… I didn’t want…”

“Oh, Ezreal… it’s ok. You’re safe.”

“I didn’t mean to take her mom away. I just wanted to get back here.”

“……her?”

“I…. have…. a daughter.”

Ah, so there it is. The other secret he was hiding. I could tell it was eating him up. I have a feeling it still will in the long run. I secretly wished for Irelia to wish for her brother not to suffer but she actually never wishes for anything. I just feel bad that I can’t really do anything right now. But patience is my strong suit.

It was a few hours until Mr. Xavier got ready to leave. I was in Ezreal’s room keeping the little one company since she woke up after the yelling and fighting. She’s pretty dang cute in my opinion, but I have a soft spot for kids. Always did. Ezreal came up to get her but when he saw me he asked if I could take her down to his dad. I noticed Ezreal has some reservations when it comes to even looking at his daughter. I took her down with him following behind and after a very awkward greeting to their dad, I handed her over and went to find Irelia.

“She has your mother’s hair which, subsequently, is also yours…. hm, her mother’s eyes?”

“Yeah.”

“They’re nice.” No response. “Ezreal, you need to take care of her.”

“I really… don’t want her.”

“You will not abandon her. You took away her mother and you have to take responsibility for that.”

“I don’t… want– why? No, I know that but I can’t be a… father. I can’t even look at her without–”

“What her name anyway?”

“I… I don’t know. I found her after…”

“…then start with that son. Find her a name. I made a huge mistake with you and your sister. I was depressed and missed the best years of your lives while wallowing in that. I refuse to let you do the same to her.”

“I’m so scared.”

“I was too. But the good thing I had was my father… and the good thing for you is that you have me. I’m not perfect, but I can help you. You also have a sister and… whatever Kotetsu is to you guys. Genesis, Sephora, Hazel… you even have an entire side of family you never met. You have support Ezreal.” He hands the little one to Ezreal who looks like she would rip his head off given the chance.

“You are not alone. I promise you that… I’ll see you later. And Ezreal?”

“Yeah dad?”

“I’m glad you’re back. Don’t do that again.”

“I won’t.”

Maybe if Ezreal remembers that, he could get back on track with his life. He’ll always have the support he needs, whether he utilizes it or not, is completely up to him though.

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Le Author’s Note 2: Yes, Henry died… and yes there is a reason. I should do a lore of this world as my mind understands and makes it… On paper first! The heir vote will be updated shortly. Thanks for reading!

Gen 3 Chap 22 – The School For Shenanigans and Hijinks

Le Author’s Note: Hi! Welcome back to The Legacy Of The Xavier’s. Last time we had a glimpse into our child hero’s for the remainder of Ezra’s generation. Yeah that’s right, Ezra’s taking the back seat for a while until the kids grow up a little but it’s still his gen. I’ll just be focusing on Ezreal and Irelia more. Anyway, let’s dive in!

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Ezra’s POV:

“You bought a school? Why?”

“Ezra, I already told you. Hazel’s a witch, Irelia, and Ezreal too. Plus many more children have supernatural blood in them and they need to learn how to–” “No, Sephora, I get that part. I don’t get why you want to do it… you aren’t… you know.”

“A witch myself? Pfft. I know, I’ve known my entire life. My mother was one, her mother was not. Hazel is so obviously it skips every other generation. Sucky, but I live with it. I’m investing in actual witches who know what they’re doing and who can pass along that knowledge to our new generation. I’ll be teaching the alchemy part since I know that like the back of my hand.” Sephora explains. I glance at Genesis and he gives me his signature grin and shrug. Well he obviously has no say in this.

“Ok but–”

“Ezra, do you think we won’t teach them all the necessary responsibilities and focal points of growing up like the normal schools do? Trust me, we’ll do it ten times better.” “It’s not that Sephora, there’s only a handful of kids who have that supernatural blood. Seven if I’m counting our three. Will your school even get funding to teach just seven kids?”

“Already taken care of. I made sure of that.” Genesis chimes in. Of course he did. He basically has infinite money. How? I quit asking that question long ago when the only answer he would give me was a long-winded explanation of the joys of World-Hopping and Time Travel. I put my arms on my shoulders and sighed. I saw no real issue with her opening up her own school. As a matter of fact, I thought it would help the kids immensely. I just worry. Constantly now. What if they get shut down? What if it doesn’t help the kids in the long run? What if–

“Stop worrying, sit in on one of the classes Ezra. You’ll see.” Genesis says and just like that, it was settled. I was going to pull Ezreal and Irelia out of the Twinbrook normal school system and give them a chance to utilize what their mother passed down. I just hope it doesn’t come back to bite me in the ass.

***

 

It has been a few weeks since the beginning of the kids new school life. I haven’t heard any complaining or any of the usual things I would normally hear with the Twinbrook Community School. No bullying, rumors, or hidden crying after school. As a matter of fact, I’d say Ezreal and Irelia are doing ten times better… that’s good, right?

“… and that, children, is one way that a witch, or warlock, can channel their magic abilities.”

“But miss–” The bell rings.

“Unfortunately that’s all for today. Sorry Herbert but your question will have to wait. Don’t forget to find an object you can channel to!” her voice rang out as kids piled out of the classroom. All except three.

“Miss Melanie? Why did we have to stay after today?” Hazel asks and Ezreal agrees. “Yeah, I’m missing prime candy eating time by still being here.”

“You’ll see, follow me.” she says and walks to the next room over.

You could almost hear the collective groan between them when Melanie stood next to a table with 3 objects on it. 3, seemingly random objects.

“I hope you all know what you’re going to be doing. If not, I’ll gladly explain.”

“Um, an explanation would more than likely be greatly appreciated, m’am.” Irelia says softly.

“Alright! You’re going to figure out what your powers are. And we’re going to do that by seeing which of these things attracts you. Irelia, you’re up first.” Melanie states.

“I um… I’m not sure if I understand what I need to be doing.” Irelia says after taking a small step forward.

“I think you just need to feel what you are most drawn to. Like me, I’m drawn to–”

“Hush Hazel. That was a good explanation but she must concentrate now.” “This is stupid.” Ezreal mumbles and Melanie casts him a sharp glance. “This will help you in the long run. Both of you, pick something too.”

“Irelia, the pitcher and butterfly. Signifying a free flowing element that also has restraints.”

“Ezreal, the dog and the bird. Signifying an element of high energy, free, taking no commands; unless someone knows how to harness the power.”

“And Hazel.”

“I just… want to set this on fire. It’s too fluffy.”

“Exactly. Your element is, honestly, a little bit complicated. A unicorn signify’s magical mystery. One has never been seen and they are normally said to be hidden in the darkness. Darkness and your odd want of burning it. Your power is called Pyro-Umbrakinesis, Hazel.” Melanie says and turns to the other two. “Irelia, your’s is water; Hydrokinesis. Ezreal, Aero-Electrokinesis; air, and lightning.”

“Wait, if my power is darkness and fire, couldn’t you find a burning crow or something? And how do I even control that?” Hazel pipes up.

“Well… honestly, since I only know how to control my element of water, I can’t help you there. Except of course for the basic things you can do.”

“I don’t have any powers anyway. Romeo got all of that…” Irelia says halfheartedly. “And how the heck do I control electricity!?” Ezreal yells.

“Uh, I guess I’ll have to talk to your parents.”

***

“I’m sorry about your losses Ezra. Death is never easy nor a welcomed guest.” Melanie– whom I honestly didn’t know was my kids teacher– states while giving Kona a sad look. I did lose Phoenix a few months after Jasmine and that didn’t help my depression much at all. But now the girl, scratch that, woman I’ve had a slight crush on since before Jasmine was sitting in my living room telling me about my kid’s powers. They’re witches, I know that, but Irelia seems to think differently.

“Thanks, but Ezreal and Irelia…?” I try to steer the conversation away from that topic again. Genesis thankfully took the kids, along with Henry and Sephora, out to eat. Although that could make this a little bit more awkward. “Ah, sorry, old memories. Vivek has been a real downer lately, which is why I agreed to teach at Sephora’s school. Through that teaching I’ve found that your children, and Hazel too, have very high potential to be powerful witches.” “What about the others?” “I’ve sense some… others… but I mean, I don’t have a history with their parents. I have a history with you.” When she said that I felt myself blush despite the mantra I’ve been chanting in my head ever since she appeared on my doorstep. ‘DO NOT TOUCH, TAKEN TAKEN TAKEN’

“I just can’t fathom them using those abilities. I mean, Jasmine didn’t even–” My breath hitched. I haven’t even realized I’ve been pacing. Saying her name was still a painful experience. I suspect it would always be.

“Ezra, I must say, as children they will need an immense amount of discipline to control their magic.”

“Who’s going to teach them? Their mother can’t. I know Sephora can’t. There are no other witches in this town except for one and she despises my children so who–”

“I will. Stop crying. I’ll move in with you when Henry officially moves out.” “Are you fu–” “Language.” “INSANE!? You live in Under-Esterdale, ruling a kingdom. Have you forgot about that? Plus there’s no space for you to stay.” “Well, Vivek is taking care of the kingdom while I’m away. We’re looking for residents still so there’s not much to do. Where was Henry sleeping?”

“Doesn’t matter, you won’t stay here.” “Why not?” “I don’t want you to.” “But the kids need a mentor.” “I don’t care, you can’t live with me. I-it wouldn’t be right.” “Because you still have a major crush on me?” “I-I- wh- what?”

Melanie hops up and gets extremely close to my face.

“You. Still. Like. Me. It’s very obvious, the way you avoid my eyes and the way you try to look anywhere but at me. That’s ok though, I know how to control myself, you’re an adult, you should be able to too.” She says and something completely random occurred to me just then. “Why have you not aged?” “…what?” “You haven’t aged, neither has Genesis but I know why he doesn’t. You, not so much.”

“Under-Esterdale works differently with time. Also, I use a spell. Now about this move in situation.” “No. Y-you can’t. It would be… odd.” “Your crush is odd.” Just then the door opens and everyone piles in. The kids immediately go up to their room, not sparing a glance in this direction, Henry goes straight to the kitchen, and Genesis… well he stopped.

“Mel, you’re still here. And very close to Ezra. What have you two been talking about, hm?” He interjects and never in my life have I been so grateful for a distraction. I silently send a ‘thank you’ to him and release a breath I didn’t know I was holding. My thoughts wandered to the kids.

“So, fire, water, and electricity. Odd combination for us but we’ll make it work.” Hazel says trying to cheer up Irelia. Ever since she learned that her element was water, she has never been so confused before. How can a kid who’d never shown any potential of being any type of magical being be… a witch?

“What’s the point anyway? I never even knew I was a witch.” “Mom was a witch Juliet.” Ezreal says, typing away. He was trying to find even more information on his powers. His and his family.

“Just because mom was doesn’t mean we get her powers too. She wasn’t even experienced, she was murdered by a psycho! If she was even remotely–” Irelia shot up only to be cut off by her brother.

“Don’t talk about her like that! We never even got a chance to know her so how can you even say that!?”

“Because I’m not a witch. I don’t feel anything flowing through me like Miss Melanie says. I just feel normal. A stupid, boring girl who never even knew her mom.” Irelia deflates again. They never really talked about their deceased mother. Just that dad was in love with her but never got the chance to actually show her before she…

“You’re a witch. You have to be because you’re my sister. Us Xavier’s stick together. We’re resilient and nothing can stop us. Right Hazel?”

“Well, I’m not one to judge, especially when you just repeat what our dads say. But I can agree. We stick together and help each other out. No matter what.” Hazels says poking Irelia in the knee. That made her giggle and seem slightly better. “Besides, we’ll have to now that we moved here. Way better than Strangetown and I don’t know anyone here.”

“Yeah, you know, Maybe this whole elemental thing would help us out in the future. Make money by doing stuff.” Ezreal says popping a piece of gum in his mouth. “So let’s make a pact, we’ll learn everything we can from the school of shenaigans and hijinks!” “I’m in! Irelia?” “I… Yeah, me too. Let’s do this.”

“And no Sanaa.” Hazel adds with a smirk. “Not fair, Sanaa is also our friend, kind of.” “She’s annoying. She doesn’t even go to the same school now. No annoying girls… excluding you two.” Ezreal says and just like that it was settled amongst the three of them.

Become the best they could be, no distractions.

Gen 3 Chap 21 – Romeo & Juliet Take A Dive

Le Author’s Note: Welcome back, happy super belated Holiday Wishes. This isn’t a Holiday Special, just another chapter.  Actually, I don’t think I ever did a holiday special on here… hmm. As some of you may know, I lost my dog last year but my fiancee got me another one. A Siberian husky. He’s ok… but I don’t think he’ll be replacing Amber anytime soon… My heart still belongs to her I also got the internetz back! Obviously since I’m posting something lol, I also posted something before this chapter and some of you gave input that unfortunately didn’t help my ordeal. I also posted on the official forums and well… a new pc is in order again. That sucks because who has new pc money right now? Not me. And these next couple parts of the legacy requires the twins to be in a school setting which I cannot place a non-rabbit hole building without the game freezing because my laptop goes ‘whoop, guess I better say F to you and your legacy now. Do something else.’ The woes of playing this game… well anyway read on and enjoy. I rambled enough.

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No One’s POV:

This little girl shall prove to be a downfall to one member of the Xavier household. Who could it be? Well, we’ll have to find that out now, won’t we? Although it should be blatantly obvious.

Sanaa Nichols: Supernatural. 12 years old. Best friends to Irelia Xavier. Major crush on Ezreal Xavier. Hated by Hazel Grimm.

Why is she here on a maybe sunny, maybe gloomy day? Well, it’s Saturday… and summer vacation, the end of it actually. No school means hanging out with the Xavier twins one final time; the pair of children (also including their cousin so it should really be called a trio) known to all of Twinbrook as The Troublesomes. Of course, everyday is the same but Saturdays are the worst. They won’t allow Sanaa to join their little group; cool witches only of course.

“Again? Really? Man you’re a sucker for pain aren’t you?” “Sanaa, are you sure you want to? We could always find something else to do.” “Nah, I bet all the jolly ranchers in my pocket she fails again. Let’s do this!” “Romeo! Stop being so mean to her!” “Hey, not my fault. She’s asking for it.”

Ezreal Romeo Xavier: Supernatural, 12 years old. Addicted to candy. Gets a kick out of ruining Sanaa’s life. Great fashion sense.

Irelia Juliet Xavier: …supernatural? (Her family thinks so anyway but her powers have yet to manifest), 12 years old. The ‘rational’ one of the group of kids. Mostly in charge of keeping Ezreal in good graces with their dad.

Sanaa simply looked at the ground, unbeknownst to her Hazel making kissy faces behind her back. Everyone knew about her crush on Ezreal but only Hazel made it a point to embarrass her about it.

Hazel Grimm: 13 and a half years old. The only child to Genesis Grimm. Only a witch because of her mother’s side of the family (skips every generation). Favorite place on earth is by far the twin’s house (it has grass here).

“I really just want to hang out with you guys all the time… not just on Saturdays. I’ll do anything. Please?” Sanaa begs them.

“Anything eh? Well now I must conjure up a dare for you fair lady. I and my trusty pawns.” “Hey! I’m not a pawn Romeo, and neither is Hazel.” “Nah, but if you really want to hang out with us more Sanaa, you have to do what we say. No ifs, ands, nor buts about it.”

“Ok… what are you gonna make me do…?”

“I dunno… somethin’.” Ezreal answered honestly, popping a jolly rancher in his mouth. Blue raspberry, his second favorite.

“If you let me hang out with you more, I’ll get you more candy.” Sanaa says the magic words: more candy.

“Of course, candy. Best way to a man’s heart Sanaa, well at least this kid here.” Hazel says from behind her and Sanaa let’s out a huff. She just really wish Hazel would quit making fun of her for her crush. It’s not that weird for a girl to like a boy with great fashion sense… is it?

“I can never say no to candy. Let’s go to the park, I got something for you to do to prove your worth.” Ezreal says with a grin on his face. He doesn’t really have a plan, he also doesn’t have to let her hang out with them more, he just wants that candy. After all, when Sanaa says she’ll do something, she won’t stop until it gets done. Never a broken promise from that one.

***

“Did you have to leave her back there? You knew she couldn’t keep up.” Irelia asked her twin who was having the time of his life being mean to the young witch.

“Well, I said the park. She’ll catch up.” Ezreal says. “Ugh, sometimes I don’t know how you’re my twin.” “Admit it, it’s fun picking on Sanaa, she’s so innocent.” Ezreal smirks and although she tried hard to be nice to people, Irelia had to admit, her brother’s antics brightened her day on multiple occasions.

“Orphan tears.” Hazel states matter of fact-ly. “What? What are you talking about now? Sanaa isn’t an orphan.” Ezreal says earning him a glare from his firey older cousin. “The sky, idiot. See how it’s sunny but raining too? That’s called orphan tears. Or so my dad said.” “Yeah but your dad is weird.” “Uncle Genesis is also fun. He gives you candy when dad isn’t watching.” Irelia says making her way through the park.

“Yup, my dad is weirdly cool. Too bad we gotta go back home today. Summers never last.”

“Don’t you miss your mom?” “Yeah but I miss you guys more when I’m not here… and the grass. I don’t want to get soaking wet, let’s go inside.” “To the museum then.” Irelia says and the other two agree.

It was hours before Sanaa finally found them in the empty museum but unfortunately fore her, by that time Ezra called the kids home. When Ezreal got off the phone he had a devilish spark in his eyes.

“Sorry Sanaa, gotta go. Looks like you’re too late so that means only Saturdays still.” Ezreal smirks and Sanaa lets out a huff like growl. “That’s not fair Ezreal! You know I’m slower than you guys, I don’t know all the shortcuts! Irelia please help me.” Sanaa turns to her only friend and Irelia sighs.

“Why don’t you ever convince him to let me play with you guys?” “Sanaa, it was hard enough to get him to agree to the Saturdays. Don’t you think that you’re asking for too much now?” “I’m the only one who even wants to be friends with you guys! Doesn’t that make a difference?”

“You’re only friends with us because you have a crush on my brother.” Irelia says under her breath but it was loud enough for the other witch to hear. “That’s… not true.” Irelia simply shook her head and walked away, she knew it was true. It was painfully obvious.

“Move Sanaa. You’re making us late.” “You can’t tell me what to do! You-you meanie!” Sanaa yells and although it takes a lot for Ezreal to get angry (candy taken away or someone knocking off his hat), he was not in the mood for Sanaa’s tantrum at the moment.

“Give up. You’re not hanging out with us more. I don’t want you to. I don’t even like you. Just leave me alone.” He says and pushes her back. After her initial shock, Sanaa eyes started to water. “Oh no, nope. Juliet, Hazel, let’s go. NOW!” Ezreal yells.

“You will regret this Ezreal. I’ll see to that.” “I highly doubt it.” He sneered back. Sanaa ran out of the museum in the night, back home. “Great, now I have a headache.” Ezreal said to no one in particular. The walk home was a short one; for The Troublesomes anyway. Shortcuts come in handy, although maybe Ezreal’s luck was turning sour already. It would explain the tear he acquired in his favorite shirt. It was the only one that could pull off a bowtie and still look cool.

Ezra’s POV:

It is entirely, utterly, and absolutely too early for this. Can’t she read? I mean my shirt does say ‘go away’. Maybe not in the most conventional way but doesn’t it get the point across anyway? Obviously not since she’s still yapping.

“Mr. Xavier, I trust you are hearing me right? Your son bullies my daughter.” Unlikely, more like she loves him and he’s not even thinking about girls that way, thank god.

Sanaa’s mother was once again on my property, ruining my painting time, berating my parenting skills, saying that I’m inadequate to raise kids, Ezreal is a menace, yada yada yada. God she talks a lot.

“Look, Mrs.—“ “Miss. I’m not married anymore Mr. Xavier.” “Ms. Nichols, I know my kids can be a little rowdy at times but I can assure you Ezreal does not bully anyone. I made sure of that, his grandfather made sure of that, also his uncle. They are straight A students and I never had a call from any other parents about either’s behavior so in all honesty, I have to assume your daughter is making up lies.” I say and oh, that was a big no no for her.

“Are you calling my daughter a LIAR!? How dare you! Sanaa is the most well behaved child in this town and I will not stand for this! Where is their mother!?” She had a very pronounced frown on her face now. Would hate to see that twist into something else so I answered her.

“Dead. Since they were… 7? 9? I don’t know, it’s been a very long time that I chose not to remember.” I say and she gasped. “I-I’m sorry, I didn’t know.” “Of course not, I don’t go blaring my personal info to everyone. Now, if talking my ear off is all that you came to do, well… you did it. You can get off my property now.” I state and she closes her hung open mouth and backs away, not before giving me a look of pity. She turns and briskly walks away, probably stewing up some more things to bother me about. ‘Mr. Xavier, your flowers are wilting. The dogs aren’t leashed. You haven’t mowed your lawn this week.’  Woe is the now annoying life of me. At least I still like my family, and they me. Speaking of, I should probably wake them up now; school and whatnot.

“Hey guys. I see you both are already awake.” I say as I survey their bedroom. It’s very plain for a couple of children and I should really look into getting them their own rooms.

“Dad, do we have to go? I mean, what’s the point? They’re just going to teach us the same thing over and over again. It’s boring!” Ezreal says. He looks exasperated, an expression I’ve come to realize only pops up when he has to learn something he finds boring. Irelia on the other hand simply sighed.

“Ezreal, school is important and they do not teach you the same things. It may feel like it, but trust me, it’ll evolve into something much more. Like math, you need to learn how to add before you can multiply.” “I think Romeo just doesn’t want to deal with the same teachers. We have one who is super mean. Her name is Mrs. Cantenitti, history.”

“Cante– alright, that’s understandable too. But I want you two to do me a favor.” I say bracing myself for the minor issue of this morning. They both looked at me waiting for what I was about to ask them. “You both are always in the same class, and I know you have your… daredevil side. But please stay out of trouble in school.”

“We always do daddy. Never had detention, suspension, or stayed after class. Don’t you know that?” Irelia questioned me. I assured them I do then brought up the real issue.

“SHE DID WHAT!? I never even so much as touched her ever!!” “I’m not saying you did nor will Ezreal. I’m saying that her mother thinks she’s being bullied by you, teasing or otherwise, so it’ll be in your best interest to stay away from Sanaa. Well, as much as you can.” I state trying to calm him down. Ezreal does not have a quick temper but he can get angry. Angrier than Hazel on some occasions.

“Fine, I can stay away from her, that’s not the problem. The problem is her staying away from me.” I chuckled at this, it brought up some old memories from college with a girl I almost ruined my life with. I realize my son was having the same issues and I would do my best to save him from what I had to go through.

“If she doesn’t Ez, tell me. Your grandpa and I can pull a few strings.” I say and he gave me a smile and nod in return. Irelia also gave her form of agreement with a simple wave with two fingers. I left them to continue getting dressed and wondered how their life was going to go. Would I still be around to see them became functional members of society? Or would something happen that would prevent me from doing that? …Those are silly fears aren’t they? But then again, maybe not.

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Le Author’s Note 2: This chapter took ages to come out because 1; game issues that are now fixed. 2; I had a car accident and wasn’t feeling up to writing, only getting a new car which has just happened. 3; WORK. Like, I’ve been overloaded with work, money’s good, but standing all the time and walking back and forth is taking a toll on my knee… which I think is only affecting me because of my car accident. But whatever, you guys don’t care about that, if you’re still reading this that is. Whew, I missed these guys, and you guys! Thanks for reading still!

xoxo – Iomai

Gen 3 Chap 20 – The Coldest Year

Le Author’s Note: DON’T HATE ME!! Super short chapter. Horrible Photoshop skills.

WARNING: Language, blood and gore. Maybe some feels, maybe not.

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Ezra’s POV:

Earlier That Year

Somehow, it turned cold without me knowing. Henry said it was cold all year but I didn’t notice it. How can summer be cold anyway? Whatever, it doesn’t matter. What mattered was that I found Jasmine but everyday that passed, her trail grew colder and colder.

I even made it daily routine to go to the consignment shop the elves were supposedly working at but day after day, I never saw them. They’ve been replaced by two other people, people who absolutely hated me asking questions. One of such was a lovely lady by the name of Sofia Carlton. It was normally she who would send me out of the shop.

“Come back again Ezra? I told ya, them elves up and left town ages ago. The shop was for sale when I acquired it.” That I knew, my father filled me in on those details when he seen the elves disappear into a portal. Without Jasmine, if I may add. My father and Genesis scoped the place out, checking behind every book shelf, in every corner, room, floorboard and wall panel. All for naught. My father’s orb couldn’t even find Shiro on the map and that’s what it boiled down to. Although Shiro’s orb was still in my father’s possession, he could still make himself disappear. Annoying to say the least.

“I’m not here about the elves this time Sofie. Have you seen a white figure running around here with my wife in tow?” I asked, deciding to change my approach, but I still got the same look.

“If I saw ya blue haired honey running around with another guy I would’ve called ya as soon as I set eyes on her. But no one fits that description that came through these doors. Trust me Ezra, you and ya folks bug me so much I know to contact you. I have all ya numbers so why don’t you just take your tired face home? Or at least stop loitering around here. Being related to magic sure don’t help you none in this, that’s for sure.” I didn’t reply to that and instead, chose to turn around a get out of there. I hated the smell of her sickly sweet perfume anyway. Always makes me want to gag.

I went across the street to the town center and sat on the fountain. It started raining as soon as I got there but I didn’t mind. Matter of fact, I welcomed the rain to wash away my sadness. Although this nightly was cold, that didn’t stop a few butterflies. Strange, all thing considered but I didn’t think too much on it. Heavier things weighed on my mind. I’ve been distracting myself from her disappearance but sometimes it still hits me like a brick. My father is constantly making sure I don’t fall back into depression (however slight that was when it happened.) and keeping the other half of the family involved with me too. I don’t need their sympathy but I do miss hearing their voices. Jay and Eihime’s kids are practically grown; Ei’s in high school practically done and Jay’s just starting high school.

Lilith is in Egypt doing God knows what. With who? Some dude named Akeem whom I immediately do not like. Who is he to take my little sister out of the country? Dad is worried, he said there’s something he isn’t ready to tell her. Of course he wouldn’t tell me. Liberty is still doing well for herself. She and Matthew broke up after he cheated on her, the bastard. I wish I had been there but I know Libby can take care of herself and probably gave him a new face.

I broke down after a while. It feels as though everyone in my family is getting on with their lives just fine and mine is falling apart. Maybe it’s because I’m the weak one. I mean, I couldn’t hold it together when I first found out she– No, not going back. I can’t, my children need me. I need them…

I mentally slap myself and start to head back home. No more sulking, no more being depressed. But I just needed a sign. Doesn’t even have to be huge, just… something to let me know she’s still ok. I didn’t plan on that sign coming in the middle of winter.

***

I received a random letter in the mail one winter’s Saturday. I got up and out of bed to get the mail and there was a folded piece of paper on top of it. I took it back up to my room and carefully read the contents. Of course it had to be Shiro, who else? Couldn’t have been those elves, Henry confirmed they were no where near here anymore, call it a hunch he felt that Jasmine was still in Twinbrook.

And hey, here comes the moment we all have been waiting for. How could any of us know? How did he even get her? Did he really have her? I didn’t care, I had to go. So I got dressed and raced out the house with Genesis and Henry confused. I didn’t know if they followed or not, I hopped in my car and sped like a demon and all that was going through my head was her name. Jasmine. I would get her back. Jasmine. I can hold her again. Jasmine. Kiss her, she can see our kids. Our family isn’t broken anymore… Jasmine.

***

I got to the graveyard. Shiro was there, just as he said, standing behind her and… touching her. I ran up to him, yelling. He looked at me and put up his hand. He made a tsk tsk sound and showed me what he held in his other hand; a knife. An ordinary kitchen knife. He grabbed Jasmine by her hair. She didn’t resist. It was like she was in some sort of trance. He brought her to her knees and yanked her head up so her throat was exposed. I yelled her name but got no response.

 “She can hear you but those elves did a number to her little brain. She’s basically a mindless slave right now.” Shiro says through his cynical, evil smile. I take a hesitant step forward. There was no way for me to close the distance between us in time, but I could always try.

“Let her go Shiro.” I demand and he just shakes his head. “Letting her go would be too easy Ezra. I’d rather slit her throat right here, right now.” He says as he bring the blade of the knife to her throat.

“Tell me, how did you find her?” I ask and he tilts his head to the side. “It was quite easy really, after I found out where the elves hid their little magic book, I found the spell, reversed it, and kidnapped her. Of course it took me all autumn to find the damn book.” He pressed the knife against Jasmine’s throat and she lets out a tiny squeal that broke my heart.

“Let her go Shiro… please.” I try once again and he just laughs.

“No. But now that that’s done, say goodbye to your little whore Ezzy.” Shiro says to me as something in his eyes flick.

“Don’t!!” I shout and make a dash for him. I was too late, he was lightning fast and in one swift motion he kissed her forehead before slitting her throat right in front of my eyes.

Blood sprayed and I tackled him, hard. I started punching and didn’t stop.

“Hahahahahahaha!” Punch, punch, punch. “Keep hitting me, it won’t bring her back.” How is he managing to talk through this?

“Let her go Ezra. She wasn’t good enough anyway.” He says with that sick grin still plastered on his face and he overpowered me, easily flipping me on my back and pinning my wrists down with what seemed like an invisible force.

How is he capable of doing this? He grabbed the knife, it didn’t fall far from when I tackled him. All the while, he never loses his grin. His high shrill voice rings out through my head.

“Did you really think you could save her?? You couldn’t if you tried! Those damn elves would’ve eaten her alive with their life sapping energy. Just like when she was first with them.

She was so fucking weak Ezra! I could bend her to do practically anything for me. But then Under-Esterdale changed her, the Queen changed her and I lost my hold on her!

I deserve to be with her but no! Genesis just had to find you first! YOU ALL RUINED FUCKING EVERYTHING I WORKED FOR AND I’LL KILL YOU FOR IT EZRA! I swear to all the gods I will fucking DESTROY YOU!”

He raised the knife and flipped it to fit to stab me. Right before he brought it down something stopped him.

Two shots rang out. Shiro’s eyes went from malice and fury to shock. The knife fell from his hand landing severely close to my face. He brought his hand to his side slowly, to his face equally slowly. Crimson red dripped from it.

“…wow.” Was all he said before he fell off of me on his side. I immediately pushed myself back from him and look up to see Genesis holding a gun.

“You ok Ezra?” I didn’t respond, I just turned to her. I needed to get to her. Please let her still be alive. I reach her, pick her body up, its ice cold. She doesn’t have a pulse. No, God no. Please! I hear screaming.

Genesis’s POV:

I knelt down besides that annoy pure white being when Ezra didn’t give me a response. I wanted to make sure he was dead. He wasn’t, not yet at least.

“I.. I always thought… the bloody queen would kill me. She… wanted… me dead. I thought, decapitation, ya know? He..hehehehe.” He breathes in ragged breaths and I don’t feel sympathy.

“Kinda… anticlimactic… don’t ya think?” His eye rolls up to meet mine. I simply stare at him, slowly losing his life. He started shivering. Still no sympathy.

“Ah, fuck… I… still… fucking hate you.. Genesis.” He says with his final breath and I stand. “I fucking hate you too Bunny Boy.” That was when Ezra screamed.

I see her body and I see her blood. I hear him screaming and I know I can do nothing to help. I drop my gun and fall down next to them, silently willing Ezra to get a hold of himself. After a moments hesitation I wrap my arms around him and pull him away from her. It’s cold, she’s cold. The snow is too pristine and I want to leave. I pick her up and motion for Ezra to get up and follow. At first he doesn’t respond but then he slowly makes his way to a standing position after a second motion from me. We began to walk, leaving Shiro, taking Jasmine. He stops me and takes her body from me. We walk in silence, him crying, and me trying not to but failing.

This is the coldest year I’ve ever had to deal with.

Gen 3 Chap 19 – Depression… Progression

Le Author’s Note: I don’t think I say this enough but thank you everyone who reads, likes, comments, and provides feedback on this legacy. I know I’m not an exceptional writer but I do like doing it. Thank you all!

Warning: Language.

---

“Baby,

can you be a little bit stronger?

Baby, cause I need a little longer.

You’re an earthly comfort
Yet so divine, yet so divine.

I never see you anymore.”

---

“Hiya Mister Ezra’s dad! Can the twins come out and play today?” Hazel’s cheery voice rang out and Henry had to shush her quickly.

“Hey, Henry. Hazel, be quieter. Inside voices dear.” Genesis says softly. He glances around quickly, noticing two figures superbly absent from this early morning scene.

“Actually Genesis, there’s something I need you to do for me.” Henry says slowly. Genesis can see the wear and tear of time on his best friend’s features now a days. Taking on the responsibility of raising Ezra’s kids was taking its toll.

“Yeah sure what?” Genesis asks and Henry’s eyes got a slight spark in them. “I need you to take the kids to the park today. I need help with Ezra, he’s wasting away so I called in some reinforcements.”

“Reinforcements? Hm, wonder who… but yeah I’ll take the kids. Hazel and I will take great care of them, won’t we babydoll?” “Yes sir papa!” Hazel agrees then covers her mouth giggling. “Sorry Mister Ezra’s dad.” “It’s ok Hazel, the twins are in the backyard actually.” Henry says and Genesis nods, leading Hazel out the backdoor, stepping over dog toys in the process. Henry notices this and shakes his head. He really needed Ezra to get off his ass and stop wallowing in self pity.

Henry had thought his younger brother would have no doubt tried to take his orb back (deactivated when Ezra spiraled into this… shell he’s in) and use it for his seemingly endless nefarious plots against him. But so far… nothing has happened on that front. He sees Genesis hop in his car with the kids and goes upstairs to try and get Ezra out of bed… once again.

“Get up.” Henry storms into Ezra’s room. The truth is, he’s tired. Mentally and physically.

“Do you knock anymore?” “I don’t give a damn about knocking or not. Get your ass up Ezra, now. I’m tired of you being holed up in this room like you’re some type of hermit. You need to get out, socialize, be with your kids. They’re growing up fast.”

“They remind me of her.” Ezra chokes out, stifling a sob before it could escape. He didn’t look at his father, he didn’t want to. Just like he didn’t want to know where his children were right now, although he heard some little girl downstairs earlier. It was early… too early to be up. He just wanted to sleep. Henry wasn’t having it.

“I will be damned if I sit around here doing your job of raising your kids. Up, now.” Ezra simply rolled on his side away from his father’s voice. Henry was losing it.

“You will get you ass out of this bed. You will see your children grow up. You will be a father. With or without Jasmine around.” A cringe, then retaliation. “I didn’t see you at all in my childhood, only in dreams. Why are you getting on me about this!? I told you I couldn’t do this alone!” “You aren’t doing ANYTHING!! Don’t bullshit me on not being there when you were growing up, that was the biggest damn mistake of my entire life and if I could go back I would’ve let that entire world burn to the ground! Just to see you and your sister grow up!” Henry yells. He shouldn’t have, he should’ve kept his composure but he didn’t. He suffered a subconjunctival hemorrhage, followed by hyphema. Henry covers his left eye with his hand and sighs deeply.

“Get dressed, go downstairs.” He says to his suddenly stubborn son. “I don’t really want to.” Was a reply back. “I wasn’t asking. Don’t make me hurt you Ezra.” Henry states and walk to the bathroom across the hall. He needs to check out his eye, blood is still in his line of sight and that’s not good.

---

Ezra’s POV:

I put on my clothes and headed downstairs, like my father ordered me to. I wasn’t feeling to good about our argument we just had. I knew I put in some low blows but to hear my father regret saving his homeworld for the sacrifice of my childhood made me feel even more shitty. I seen that bright crimson appear in his left eye too, that’s not a good sign.

Before I made it even a third of the way down I seen some incredibly familiar shoes and it dawned on me; my parents came here. I stopped at the base of the stairs and stood staring, unbelievably at the scene before me. My eyes watered and tears spilled.

“Mom…? Dad…?” I choked out. They each gave me a sympathetic smile but my mom spoke first. “We heard you were… sad.” “We also heard that little exchange.” My dad said frowning slightly.

I ran to hug them but my mom held on the longest.

“Why didn’t you call us Ezra? We’re always here for you.” “I don’t know…” I sad simply and that was the truth. I should’ve called them sooner. Henry came down the stairs soon after and my mom immediately turned on him.

“Henry! What happened to your eyes? They aren’t blue anymore, and why are you covering one of them? What’s with the ears too? You look older, I though you didn’t age.” My father chuckled slightly, his hand covering his eye was trembling, ever so slightly.

“If you really must know, I gave some of my life energy to Genesis when he did his future fusing. That sent my eye color back to their usual boring brown. Strange how that worked really. I uh… I need to get my eyes checked out soon but hey, I can tell you two all about me later. Ezra is the issue right now.” I looked down, wanting to avoid this confrontation as much as possible. It was like an intervention. Not like I was on drugs or anything, I just… can’t find my drive.

“Yes, Ezra is the issue. Tell us what happened, son. Your mother and I are extremely curious as to why you left us out of your life so much” “Anubis!” “No, he’s right mom, I’m sorry.” I say and lead them to the kitchen table where we all sat and talked about the current issue of… me.

“One more thing, you look like hell boy.” Anubis said and I nodded weakly. “I know dad.” We began our talk.

***

It was later in the day when Genesis came back with the twins. They looked like they had fun and when they saw me downstairs in God knows how long, they couldn’t hide their excitement. I called them over to meet their grandparents and looked to the floor. Every time I see them my eyes start watering. Could I really be a father?

“So, who are they daddy?” Irelia asked while her brother hung onto her. “We’re your grandparents sweetie. Lyra and Anubis.” “I thought grandpa Henry was our only grandparent.” Ezreal says nonchalantly casting a quick glance around to make sure Henry wasn’t in the near vicinity.

“They’re also your grandparents. Henry is my father and Lyra is my mom.” I try to explain, Irelia connected it first; “Ah so grandpa Anubis is your step daddy, daddy. I get it.” “I don’t but it’s cool. As long as I can get some candy.” My son says.

“By the way Juliet, do you think they have candy right now?” “Can’t say for sure Romeo but you can always ask. Grammy looks more inviting than grammpy.” They whispered amongst themselves. I smile in spite of myself. I heard about Ezreal’s little candy addiction (thanks to Genesis) from my father, who was currently keeping Genesis and Hazel occupied. I loved my kids, I really do, I just wish constantly that Jasmine was here to see this.

After my parents got to know my little duo a bit better, they left to their hotel. I still couldn’t believe they traveled all the way from Aurora Skies to here. Which reminds me, I’ll have to ask for pictures of Eihime’s and Jay’s kids. Well, updates on all the family really.

“Hey dad, can you read us a bedtime story? Pleeeeease?” Ezreal begged. I was about to decline when Genesis stepped in.

“Actually, I have a story that I promised to tell Ezra a while back, wanna hear it?” He asks me and it takes me a longer time to decide than anticipated. Irelia declined for me. Second time in one day that I felt like shit. I apologize to them before disappearing upstairs into my room again. I hate this feeling.

I got undressed and sat on my bed, contemplating what my father had said earlier. He was right, I couldn’t just stay holed up in my room all the time. I needed to go out and do something. Help in the search of finding Jasmine. It seems as though the twins are getting along fine without her but I am worried about them growing up with just me. Would that affect them negatively? I really needed to find her soon… starting tomorrow. Tonight, I’ll sleep once more, then tomorrow I’ll go to those elves.

***

 The next day yielded no leads on Jasmine’s whereabouts. People in town say they never even saw her. How was that possible when apparently her aura was off the charts? Someone must’ve noticed her and if not her then the elves. But even my father said that little consignment shop was abandoned. He watched it practically every day, switching shifts with Genesis.

Most weeks I spent working out. I needed something to do when the kids were at school because when they were home, I spent practically every moment with them. I was immensely glad when they didn’t reject me because I was out of their life for a while. Matter of fact, they welcomed me with open arms, literally. Although my father and I had our second argument it never changed how much he wanted to help me. His way of making up for him not being in my childhood I guess.

I was also grateful for Genesis keeping Hazel around, the twins loved their “cousin” and I couldn’t help but wonder what Sephora thought about her daughter switching around so much. Genesis says he has it under control but I’ve seen him being grumpy a few times after he got off the phone with his wife.

Either way, I’m getting better about her missing. No doubt those elves had something to do with it and when I find them, someone is going to pay. I promise that.

---

***Lyrics: ‘You Suck Charlie’

Gen 3 Chap 15 – Twinbrook

Le Author’s Note: Welcome to ARC 3!! Honestly, it’s not that grand, but it does build up characters… plus I’m going to try out a certain type of genre in some chapter (i.e. Horror/Gore). It’s a later chapter so don’t bee too excited (no one’s excited I know T-T). Anyway~ I’m going to miss Henry and Genesis… they were fun to play around with but I can’t hold on to them forever (*puts Genesis in a totally different save file*). I actually just noticed Henry looks really good without his glasses. No wonder Ezra’s a cutie. Enough babble, on to the next episode!

—————————————————————————————————————

Welcome home, as my father would have undoubtedly said when we were beamed here.

‘It’s a little brown house, perfect for you and Jasmine… big yard space for the dogs…’ ‘So how did you afford it?’ 

He never told me. Always say the way he acquire things isn’t important since it happened in the “past”. Not fully furnished, we have to do that ourselves, but furnished enough to live in.

The first floor is an open kitchen/dining/living room type deal. Laundry room, garage with a car.

‘That car is yours Ezra, I assume you would need it. Can’t walk around all your life. Don’t wreck it, Genesis worked hard getting you that.’ 

Second floor had two bedrooms, a master and a smaller one.

‘Grandkids from you two I imagine; one day, for now the dogs can sleep in there.’

One bathroom. Maybe with the extra space I could set something up…

“This house is amazing! Tell Henry and Genesis I said thank you!!” Jasmine says going through the house. I pull out the orb that my father gave to me. ‘Shiro shouldn’t come back for this… but if he does, I need to explain it to you, how to protect you and Jasmine. But mostly, what’s really important is that you never let it out of your site…’

“Amazing thing… like a cell phone but not really. Just a two way device that lets me talk to Henry.” And Genesis if I wanted to be honest, he constantly talks to me about how I’m liking it here so far and there’s honestly not much to say. We just got here. Phoenix and Kona love the yard so I guess that’s a plus.

“By the way, upstairs has absolutely no wallpaper in the rooms. And, there’s no decorations… We’re going to have to go shopping!” Jasmine laughs. I could tell she was overly excited for some reason that even she couldn’t tell me about. I guess, a new town would be good for a memory jog… Speaking of new town, we’re in Twinbrook. A slightly swampy place but good for living. Apparently nothing out of the ordinary happens here.

I place the orb on a pedestal my dad also installed in the house. ‘Carrying it around all the time gets tiring, when  you’re home you can leave it on the little table upstairs.’ He practically thought of everything and I was extremely grateful for that. It stayed small at first but then morphed into a bigger shape to fill the holder. I activated the orb and waited for a few minutes before Genesis’ face began to form in it.

“Well hey Ezra, how ya doing?”

“Uh, good I guess… is my dad around?” I ask him and he narrows his eyes at me. “It’s nothing bad Uncle Genesis, I just need to ask him something.” He leans back away from the orb and yells for Henry. Soon my father appeared.

“Ezra.” “Hey dad, can I ask you something?” “Shoot.” My father looked extremely tired and rundown but I suppose that is a side effect when working with Genesis. “So I noticed that technically, I only have about, 800 bucks to my name… can I borrow some money….? Please?” I ask and Henry’s eyes actually light up and he smiles.

“Oh Ezra, Ezra, Ezra… You should know the answer to that.” He says and I stare blankly. He sighs and shakes his head and when he looks back at me his eyes hold a mischievous glint of amusement. “You went to college Ezra, you hold a degree in Fine Arts and Communications.” “So…?” He laughs. Literally, but when he composed himself he stared at me hard before yelling; “GET A JOB.” then deactivating his orb. Well…. damn.

I walk out of the room to find Jasmine smiling at me. “Well, I heard that. A job it is then. But what type of job?” She wonders and I shrug. I did have two degrees but I don’t want to do anything with them in their fields… music? Yeah I play the guitar, out of hobby, not a money maker. And Jasmine… well…

“I could… maybe, sing? Or… be self-employed?” She thinks and her being self-employed stuck out to me. She’s a witch. She could brew potions or something and I told her this. She beamed at me a immediately wanted to do it so we made a trip to Twinbrook City Hall to register her. Me? Well, I just got a job at a car dealership… It’ll last until something else comes along.

***

Jasmine’s POV:

I was excited. I don’t know why, I just have a really good feeling. Like, something amazing is going to happen. Self employed alchemist, me? Oh yes, score. I’m not entirely sure on how this town views supernaturals but I wasn’t about to flash my powers around anyway. I asked Ezra to go on home because I wanted to start my career right away. I already had a few potions on me (just in case) so I immediately went to the consignment shop in town to sell them.

When I walked through the door a deep, booming voice greeted me and when I looked up I was met by a really buff guy behind the counter.

“Uh…” “I asked, could I help you, ma’am?” The clerk asks one more time and I shake to clear my head. “I’m sorry, yes. I would like to sell my elixirs please.” I say and he stares at me for a moment.

“I’m sorry, but I don’t accept magical artifacts. Too much controversy.” he says completely stonefaced. “But… I thought that… I mean, why? Aren’t you an elf? How could you not?” “Twinbrook is a quiet town. A plain town, I’m assuming you just got here since you so blatantly point out the magic in others. I’d appreciate it if you never said shit about my elfism again. People have gotten used to me which in turn has allowed me to own this shop and sell things I deem safe. How would I even know if your potions are safe to sell to the public?”

“I would never do anything to hurt anyone so carelessly.” I say looking at my shoes. I felt ashamed that I didn’t think that through. What would I do if I could find no one to sell my wares to… or for me?

“But you have done it?” he asks and I didn’t speak. I would say no but how can I when I can’t remember a lick of who I was before? I could have been a completely different person than I am now. “I don’t know. I don’t think so.” I say honestly and the man looks surprise at my answer.

“My name is Sora. I am an elf as you are a witch. I have lied to you. I do sell magical artifacts but not to commoners. Only other supernaturals, I have a facade to keep up. I needed to test your genuine, Miss…?” “Jasmine… how did you know I was a witch?” “You give off a powerful aura. I sensed it before you even came through my door… Jasmine.”

“Yes?” “I will sell your elixirs, but if I were you I would be way more careful.” Sora says as he takes my small bag of elixirs from me. “What do you mean more careful?” I ask him and he looks at me as though I was completely incompetent.

“You have an extremely powerful aura. If I felt that 10 feet from my shop who knows who else could’ve felt it. Keep that in check. Out my shop now, you’re tainting it.” He says coming around the counter and shooing me out of his shop before I had a chance to protest. When I was out the door he immediately put up a ‘Closed’ sign and simply stared at me until I walked away and couldn’t see him or his shop anymore.

A voice comes from the backroom of Sora’s shop…

“Was that… really Jasmine?” it asks. “Yes. She seemed to have no recollection of me. I suppose that’s good.” “But also no recollection of her past in general. That’s strange, no?” “Perhaps… amnesia… she did disappear for a while. Again.” Sora says rummaging through the vials, organizing them, and pricing them.

“Sorakota, she’s going to have to come back… either by her will or against it. We have to make sure of that.” The voice sighs. “I didn’t want to have to do that again, she seems to like it here.” “Business is business cotton candy.” Sora says and the voice huffs. “That’s not my name!”

***

Ezra’s POV:

When Jasmine got back it was starting to get dark. She walked through the door but didn’t say a word to me nor the dogs even though they greeted her with their normal enthusiasm. She just went straight to the fridge, which was now fully stocked thanks to me, and started preparing something. Looked like my favorite. She kept sighing while she was cooking too which concerned me even more.

“Jasmine?” I venture while she gobbled down the spaghetti she just prepared.

“Yes?” She asks between bites of food. “Are you alright? Did something happen while you were out?” “No. Well, yes? Maybe? I don’t know. I was going to sell my elixirs at the consignment shop and the guy there, his name is Sora, he called me out on pointing out his supernatural-ness because he said basically everyone knew about supernaturals here they just don’t like them and he said I have a powerful aura which gave myself away as a supernatural but I didn’t even know I was suppose to be hiding it so–” “Ok, calm down. Slow down, this guy basically offended you right?” “Well, no, complimented really. Right before I left he said I had a powerful aura but I should be careful with it. It might alert some anti-supernaturalists I guess. I offended him actually.”

“So, did what he say bother you? Do you remember anything from your past? You’re quiet…” I ask her and she shakes her head. “Still a blank but for some reason what he said did strike something within me. I just don’t know what. I wish I could remember something…” She mopes and I put my hand over hers. “For now, let’s just finish dinner and rest. It’s been a slightly long day and I start work early tomorrow morning.” “Right… congratulations by the way. I’m happy for you.” Jasmine says and picks at her food. I mumble a thanks and dig in to my plate. She’ll feel better in the morning.

***

Before she drifted off to sleep I sat besides her on the bed, trying to make her feel better and after a while it worked. It doesn’t take much to cheer her up with she’s normally an optimistic person. It just seems like her past is haunting her in ways she doesn’t understand. I’ll try my best to help her with that.

“Ezra, do you… really like me? Like, even if I turn out to be someone different, will you still like me?” she asks me before I moved to my side of the bed. I smile down at her worry. “Of course I will. Nothing can change the way I feel about you.” “Not even that slight crush you have for Melanie?” “That’s… honestly, that’s just a crush that’s being crushed further down every moment I spend with you.” I say and that put a smile of her face. “If you say so… sometimes it feels as though we’re just… friends I guess.” “I’m sorry for making you feel that way.” I say leaning down to kiss her. Then I kissed her again, and again. We got lost in each other and I hoped I showed her my feelings were true to her, and only her.

From that night, every night we slept together we cuddled. It’s almost as if she was afraid of me to let her go throughout the night. Not that I minded it, it simply felt as though there was a deeper meaning to it. For me at least.

A few months later we found out that Kona was pregnant, Jasmine was over the moon to have puppies. She kept gushing about how cute the were going to be. I suppose I expected it after all the late night adventures Phoenix and Kona got up to.  After a while she gave birth to two puppies; Spark…

…and Sadie. I could tell already Phoenix’s favorite was his daughter. She took after her mother on the energy level. It seems as though her sleeping is the rarest thing to see. Spark takes after his mother on the curiosity level. There’s not one thing he has licked, sniffed, knocked over, or just simply got into. Well, Sadie too, so I guess all there is to say is that these puppies are handfuls, but they’re a welcome distraction from life.

***

Jasmine has been going to the consignment shop every time some of her elixirs sell to pick up her check, and to sell more. One day she told me that there was a different person there that wasn’t Sora. He was friendly, nice, sort of like a child. She told me his name, as weird as it may sound, was Panda-Bear. For some reason, that sounded familiar to me. He was also an elf, like Sora. I suppose they became friends after a while.

***

We’ve been in Twinbrook for a few months now and Jasmine was, once again, acting strange. She got up in the middle of the night on multiple occasions to run to the bathroom and throw up. When I found out I asked her to go to the doctor but she refused, saying it was something she ate. I know Jasmine’s cooking, she doesn’t get sick from her own stuff.

My suspicions were confirmed when I came home from work one day and found her quietly crying in the bathroom.

“I’m sorry Ezra…” “Why? What’s wrong?” “I’m pregnant. I’m so sorry.” I didn’t understand why she would be sorry so I just held her and told her it would be ok, she should be happy, I wanted kids… at least, with her. She came to accept the fact after a while. We were going to be parents. I was going to be a dad… I was… I don’t know a thing about raising kids.

The months flew by with maximum help from my dad and Genesis considering he already had a kid. At least some things from the future were happening already. Jasmine was due any day now and I was a nervous wreck. Hovering over her, hovering over the puppies, reading book after book of parenting guides and how-to’s. I’m pretty sure I was getting on everyone’s nerves because even Phoenix didn’t hang around inside the house too much anymore. Outside was ultimately more peaceful for him. I couldn’t help myself, what if something went wrong? What if I’m not a good dad… what if… I’m just not good enough for anything?

—————————————————————————————————————

Le Author’s Note 2: Yeah… rushed this chapter because I really want to get into the Arc already and it only really starts after Jasmine has a child. Get ready to see more of Panda-Bear and Sorakota though, they play a semi-important role in this. I’m so freaking happy with how the puppies turned out, they’re like perfect mixes of Phoenix and Kona. I love them so much <3<3<3<3 Ezra doesn’t really know how to convey his feelings towards Jasmine, poor baby, he’ll learn soon enough.