A/N
This story is unedited so apologies for grammatical and spelling errors if any.
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Fiora (POV)
Back at the waterfall with my trusty book, but this time, my focus was on mastering my powers. Remember how the book used to be a mix of gibberish and clarity? Well, after my little getaway, it's starting to make perfect sense. I've been immersing myself in the world of shapeshifting, and it's been an enlightening journey. Did you know mermaids are real? My bad, they're referred to as Thalassians here, and vampires? They're known as Sangrimbue. There's a whole array of Therianthropes present in this world from wolves to every other kind we know. It's like stepping into a whole new universe
Zack's advice to focus more on the Magic realm is noted, but I find myself drawn to the intriguing world of shapeshifters. Have you heard of the 'Ixcheline'? They're what they call werewolves here, pronounced 'Eesh-leen' as per the book I've been reading. What fascinates me is that not all Ixcheline possess the same powers. Only a select few of them have the exquisite ability to manipulate specific elements of the earth.
"Ok, I need to focus on myself," I thought to myself, I turned the pages of the mystical tome, immersing myself in the enchanting realm within. Skimming through its ancient pages, I sought out the wisdom I craved, finally discovering the answers I sought
Mysticarium, also known as Ethera, stands as the birthplace of magic itself, steeped in the rich history of its first queen, Ina. Legend speaks of her as the embodiment of mythical energies, her kaleidoscopic eyes a testament to her extraordinary nature. With unparalleled mastery over the five elements, Ina possessed the ability to manipulate, combine, or isolate each molecule of an element, bestowing upon mystic holders a diverse array of unique skills.
Further into my exploration, I unearthed a fascinating revelation: while rare elemental holders still exist, those adept in the manipulation of two elements are commonplace, whereas mastery over three is a rarity. These individuals embody quintessential combinations of the five elements and often forge close-knit bonds with the ruler of Ethera. However, it became evident that even the ruler, capable of controlling four elements, falls short of Ina's legendary status, as her dominion over all five elements remains unparalleled and seemingly unattainable.
As I delved into the intricate details of elemental qualities, advantages, and drawbacks, a sobering realization dawned upon me: I belonged to the ranks of common element holders, wielding command over only two elements—air and fire. Amidst my study of the interplay between these two powers, a gentle tap on my shoulder interrupted my contemplation.
Startled, I turned to find Zack, gasping for air, his presence disrupting my focus. Hastily, I steadied him, my hand offering reassurance as I inquired, "What's wrong?"
His frantic response, "Where's your phone?" triggered a sudden panic within me. Racing through my thoughts, I realized I had left it behind at home. "I'm sorry," I admitted sheepishly, "I left it at home."
He relaxed and settled, the tension easing from his features. However, the tranquillity was short-lived as I heard further rustling nearby. Shifting my attention slightly, I noticed Arnica, Ethan, and Ziwa fixedly staring at me. Panic surged inwardly, but I swiftly reached for my book, feigning nonchalance, despite my lack of understanding. With a practised motion, I inclined my head in a respectful bow, a gesture that was reciprocated by each of them in turn.
With an awkward tone, I directed my question to Miss Ziwa, "How are you feeling now?" She replied courteously, "I'm fine, Luna."
"I'm Fiora Mary, Miss Mathew, the Manager, not Luna," I clarified with a gentle correction.
"I'm aware you're..." Miss Ziwa's words faltered as Zack suddenly pulled me towards him, my eyes widening in surprise as he enveloped me in his embrace while still lying down, prompting me to rest on top of him.
"Zack, they're watching," I murmured in a hushed yet firm tone.
"Let them," Zack responded wearily, his voice barely audible, laden with exhaustion. "Stay here. I'm just relieved you're safe."
With a subtle twist of my head, I observed Arnica, Ethan, and Ziwa settling nearby, their eyes darting around in curiosity. Despite the discomfort of the situation, I understood Zack's need for reassurance. Suppressing my own discomfort, I remained beside him, silently offering my support.
We remained there for just a fleeting moment before Zack slowly rose to a sitting position. It was only then that I noticed the dawn breaking, painting the sky in hues of beautiful bronze, orange, and yellow
"Did I cause trouble again?" I asked, my concern evident in my voice.
"No, Luna. I'm just excessively worried," Zack replied, his tone tender and filled with love.
Turning to the trio seated nearby, I offered an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry for the inconvenience I caused," I said, bowing slightly towards Mr. Ethan and Miss Ziwa.
They both smiled warmly, their gestures dismissing my apology. "No, no, no, Luna. What inconvenience?" they chimed in unison. "It's our responsibility." While Arnica remained completely silent
"What's 'Luna'?" I inquired, curious.
Before Miss Ziwa could respond, Zack interjected, "It means 'moon'." Miss Ziwa nodded in agreement, adding, "Yes, it does mean 'moon'."
"So, why exactly are you all calling me Luna?" I questioned, a mixture of curiosity and defiance colouring my tone.
Theo's response was curt, "Enough questions, Fluff ball," he snapped, a hint of irritation in his voice.
Miss Ziwa's gaze hardened, and with a stern look, she addressed Theo, "Theo, watch your tone" Her tone was reprimanding but softened as Theo transformed into a domesticated wolf, a display that filled me with awe.
"I like you," I exclaimed to Ziwa, unable to contain my admiration. Turning to her with a beaming smile, I added, "Teach me." Ziwa's smile widened, mirroring my excitement, as she nodded in response.
Zack's gaze met mine, his expression softening. "Why? I listen to you anyways," he remarked.
I chuckled. "That's true, but sometimes it's fun," I replied with a playful tone. Our laughter filled the air, breaking the tension between us.
Mr. Ethan seized the opportunity to suggest a game. "Let's play a game to get to know each other better," he proposed. Zack nodded in agreement, Miss Ziwa voiced her approval with a "good idea," and I eagerly chimed in with an "I'm in." Arnica remained quiet, her response a subtle nod of her head.
The rules were straightforward: whoever the pin landed on had to answer a question from one of the other participants, and no question could be left unanswered. Lies were not allowed, but participants could choose not to answer. Zack placed his phone in the centre with the Truth or Dare wheel open on it, and with a flick, he set the wheel in motion. After a moment, it stopped on Arnica.
Cautiously, I posed the first question, "Why are you so dull?" Arnica's response struck a chord, her words carrying a weight of regret. "I thought I could protect you. Looks like I should have earned your trust first."
Zack followed up with a direct inquiry, "Who exactly are you?" Arnica's answer was succinct yet cryptic, "Element holder."
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Mr. Ethan's question cut to the heart of the matter, "Why did you lie?" Arnica's response was solemn, "To protect you."
As the game unfolded, tension thickened in the air, each question revealing more about Arnica's hidden truths.
Miss Ziwa's scrutiny intensified with her question, "What's going on?" Arnica's admission revealed the depth of her deception, "I lied about being a witch. I'm an Element holder, and because of that, you were in that state."
It became evident that this game would unearth hidden secrets, plunging us into a realm of uncertainty and intrigue.
Zack rotated the wheel again and it stopped on him
As Zack's turn came around again, Mr. Ethan wasted no time in posing his question, "Why are you dodging everything?"
Before Zack could respond, Arnica's hands moved with a swift grace, emitting a sparkling light of a jade-like hue. Shocked, I couldn't help but ask, "What did you do?"
"I shielded us with soundproof and invisibility occult," Arnica calmly remarked, her actions leaving us all in awe.
Before I could inquire further, Arnica silenced me with a gesture, signalling for Zack to continue.
"I didn't want to repeat history," Zack replied softly, his tone tinged with sadness.
Intrigued, I couldn't help but press further, "What history, and what are you hiding?"
Theo interjected, reminding me, "One question at a time, Lotus."
"Okay, what are you hiding?" I redirected my question.
"That I was following Arnica after I saw her reaction when you were unconscious, and that I met you outside work hours," Zack confessed.
"But what..." I began, only to be cut off by Theo's firm interruption, "Your turn is over."
"How much do you know about me?" Arnica inquired.
"Not much, just that you possess some extinct powers like teleportation, are genuinely obsessed with Fiora, your queen and you speak one of the oldest magic languages. Also, your cave houses a sword that absorbs energy, and Ethan is unaware of more than half of what I've discovered. I know you're not a threat to us, but whatever you're hiding is precarious," Zack replied in one breath.
"How do you know what's inside that cave?" Miss Ziwa asked.
"I can enter the cave if Fiora drags me in," Zack replied, nervously biting his lower lip.
"So, you were inside the cave with Fiora?" Arnica questioned, prompting me to exclaim, "Cheating! It's time to rotate the wheel," innocently interjecting into the intense conversation. Their chuckles echoed, momentarily breaking the tension.
As Zack chuckled and spun the wheel, it landed on Mr. Ethan.
Arnica took the lead, her voice hesitant as she asked, "Do you hate me?" Her eyes remained fixed on the ground, unable to meet Mr. Ethan's gaze.
Mr. Ethan paused, his expression softening as he spoke. "You may believe you've hidden it well, but have you ever wondered why I never questioned any of this?" Arnica slowly lifted her gaze to meet his piercing glass-blue eyes.
He continued, his voice gentle yet firm. "You may not fully understand what a Mate bond entails. It's not merely a surface connection or activated only during moments of pleasure. I can feel your emotions right now. I can hear your thoughts, even when you're unaware of them. I can do so from miles away, and if necessary, I can even see what you're seeing, though it gives me a massive headache. The Mate bond is called sacred for a reason; there's no hiding anything from your partner. You're like a transparent glass to me. But I have control over it, over how much I allow myself into your space. That's where trust comes into play. And Mrs Arnica, or rather, my life, I trust you, and I always will."
Arnica broke down in tears, embracing Mr. Ethan tightly. I felt a lump form in my throat, almost teary-eyed myself. She cried for several minutes, her sobs eventually subsiding into gentle sniffles. A smile graced her lips, and I sensed a lightness in her demeanour, relieved by Mr Ethan's words of trust and understanding.
I attempted to lighten the mood with a silly question, asking, "How old are you?" But Mr. Ethan's response caught me completely off guard. "I'm a hundred and twenty-four years old," he replied calmly.
My eyes widened in disbelief as I turned to Arnica, my astonishment evident. "How old are you?" I asked, my voice trembling slightly. With a serene smile, she disclosed, "I'm two hundred and thirty-six years old." I couldn't contain my shock, blurting out, "What the actual f***... good heavens!"
Turning to Zack for reassurance, I hesitantly asked, "And you?" He chuckles in response to my shocked expression. "I turned twenty-four this year," he replied casually.
Taking a deep breath to calm my nerves, I cautiously turned to Miss Ziwa, silently questioning her age. She chuckled softly before answering, "I will be turning twenty-six this year." I relaxed at least they both are in the same age group
As a yawn escaped me, Theo's inquiry broke the silence. "How many years have you lived?" he asked.
"Exactly one year older than you. My birthday was last month," I replied confidently.
Arnica interjected swiftly, countering, "No, your birthday hasn't arrived yet."
Surprised by her certainty, I redirected her response, seeking clarification. "You know me, don't you?" I probed.
With nonchalant ease, Arnica revealed, "I'm your aunt, your mother's younger sister."
As the weight of Arnica's revelation settled in, I couldn't help but feel a surge of emotion. "Tell me I wasn't abandoned," I pleaded, my voice trembling with emotion. Somehow that was the very first question that popped in my head
Arnica's response was swift and reassuring, her tone gentle. "No, my child, why would we? You're the most loved child in the family, after me of course," she said, lightening the mood with a touch of humour.
Before I could propose the next question, Zack's phone rang, flashing "Mother" on the screen. He answered the call, putting it on speaker mode. "Is Fiora alright?" his mother's worried voice came through immediately.
"Yes, she is. She's here with us," Zack reassured her.
"Oh, thank goodness. I was so worried. Is she near you?" his mother inquired further.
"Yes, Mother, she's listening," Zack replied, prompting me to quickly chime in, "Hello, Mrs. Black. How are you?"
Her words cut through me like a knife, her tone laced with disappointment and concern. "How am I? How could you even ask that question? I'm half dead!" Her voice quivered with emotion, betraying the worry that had consumed her. "I called you so many times, defeated. I had to call Zack to look for you. You know Zack's busy taking care of Ziwa. You should take care of yourself instead of making a ruckus."
The weight of her scolding bore down on me, and I felt a pang of guilt. "I'm sorry, Mrs. Black," I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper. "I'll remember it next time."
Her response was a heavy silence, laden with unspoken concern. At that moment, I realized the depth of her love and the extent of her worry.
"How's Ziwa?" Mrs. Black's voice carried a mix of concern and relief, evident in her tone.
"Hello, Mother, I'm back," Miss Ziwa's voice interjected, warm and familiar.
"Ahhh, my poor child. How are you feeling? Did you eat something?" Mrs. Black's words dripped with maternal worry, her love for her daughter evident in every syllable.
"I did, Mother, and I'm okay now. A little dizzy, though," Ziwa's response was soft, tinged with fatigue.
"Hmm, have lots of water, honey, and ginger tea. Also, don't exert yourself. Ask your brother to take care of you nicely," Mrs. Black's advice came from a place of deep care and concern.
"Okay, Mother," Ziwa's reply was obedient
"Why are you all together?" Mrs. Black's curiosity tinged her question
"Just having some fresh air, Mum," Zack's casual reply masked the tension that lingered in the air.
"Hmm," Mrs. Black paused, her next words directed at me. "Fiora."
"Yes, Mrs. Black," I replied, ready to heed her call, feeling a mixture of anticipation and apprehension.
"Can I talk to you in private?" Her request held a weight of seriousness, and I braced myself for what was to come.
"It's okay, Mrs. Black. They're all now aware of me," I assured her, though a flicker of nervousness danced within me, acknowledging the shared understanding among us
"Hmm, I was thinking... Is there a chance that you are the daughter of Marcus?" Mrs Black's voice held a cautious tremor, her words laden with uncertainty and a hint of hope.
"She is, Mrs. Black," Arnica chimed in, her voice clear and confident.
"Arnica," Mrs. Black exclaimed, her surprise evident in her tone.
"Good evening, Mrs Black," Arnica replied respectfully, her demeanour calm and composed.
"Is that real? Is she Marcus's daughter?" Mrs. Black's voice quivered with emotion, her words almost on the brink of tears, as the weight of the revelation sank in.
"Yes, Mrs. Black, she is," Arnica confirmed, her voice steady and sure.
"Wait, wait, wait... she's the daughter of my THE Marcus? The legendary beta?" Mr. Ethan's incredulous response rang out.
"Not just his. My legendary sister as well," Arnica added, her tone filled with pride and reverence
Exhausted by the flood of revelations, I grabbed my book and cast a glance at Zack, my mind spinning too fast to make sense of anything.
As if sensing my need for escape, Zack silently passed his phone to Miss Ziwa and then gently lifted me into his arms, wordlessly carrying me away from the chaos and confusion.
Without a single word spoken, he guided us back home, providing the solace and comfort I desperately needed in that moment of overwhelming uncertainty.
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A/N
Word count:- 2700
Hello, my lovely readers, I hope you all are doing well
Here, is the 25th chapter of my book
I hope you all liked it and have a great day ahead
Ok
Thank you
Love you
bye:)
Until next time
Happy reading 💐
Date:- 20/05/2024