《The Heirs Daughter》


 2 Chapter 1

    My mornings usually consist of going straight to the voodoo shop around the corner from my place after grabbing two coffees, where my best and only friend Zaline lives and owns.


    Zaline is a kind woman, if you didn''t know her, she could come off as weird, she is five-foot, has a small frame, tan skin almost brown, short brown hair, and has always dressed in pure fashion for her shop. Her dresses make my head spin with the colors and designs, the bangles on her arms and the sandals that match her dresses.


    She is the rock in my world and I wouldn''t ever change a thing. I''m about to knock on the back door that leads to her apartment above the shop when it swings open.


    Zaline stands there with a frown on her face "I felt you coming" she says wiping the sleep from her eyes. I walk in with a smile, handing her the extra coffee. "How do you always do that? I would never be able to play hide and seek with you" she stifled a laugh and we walk up the stairs into her kitchen.


    As she goes into to her room to change, I look around her two-bedroom apartment, with jars of herbs littered around, dark curtains, and candles everywhere, all of her furniture was passed down the family line as her mother before her and so on, owning this shop for generations, it must be nice...


    "So, what was the night terror this time?" bristling as she steps out of the room in her bright green dress and hair in a bun on her head.


    "Oh you know more death, and death, like always" she turns and looks at me with that, it''s too early to be a smart ass, look"Did you see this one clearer? You know I can help you with those dreams, or try another herb to make them go away".


    "No more herbs please, last time I thought I was going to pass out from the smell" I laugh.


    We sit on the couch with our coffee as it hits five am, one more hour and I''ll be at work "This dream was like the others, I don''t remember much, but I do remember seeing the most beautiful blue eyes staring at me, the only highlight in all the gloom"


    Cocking her head to the side "Oh, hhmmmm was he cute? It''s about time you start looking at cute guys, not that Jackson wasn''t super bad looking"


    Narrowing my eyes at her, she had to bring up my one and only boyfriend of six months that was not the most faithful, I was not ready to lose my virginity to the guy, and he couldn''t hold out long enough apparently.


    Sighing "He was a loser anyway, that''s what I get for thinking a nice smile was a sign of a nice guy, I know better now. Maybe I''ll lose it to some random guy just to get it over with" I laughed with a wink at her.


    "Sure maybe to blue eyes in your dream" she replies.


    I never had the urge to try sex, I was worried about getting out of the foster system to think about boys, not that I didn''t get my share of attention, Zaline says I''m oblivious to the looks and hints of flirting from people. I guess I don''t understand it, I''ve never been close to anyone expect Zaline, and the thought of being alone is common for me, maybe one day I''ll meet someone that I deem worthy of joining my makeshift family of two.


    We sit and talk for a bit longer about how her shop is doing, family, which all retired and moved down the bayou, and how the new guy she is dating is getting along.


    It''s time for me to get ready for work, I change into my blouse and skirt, and throw my other clothes in my backpack, it''s a habit from growing up to always carry a bag with extra clothes, makeup, food, and water mainly, with a few other items.


    Telling Zaline bye and have a good day, I head back into town to the business section. My job for the past two years is located on the fifth floor of a five-story building filled with other professional offices, as I get off the elevator into the busy Law office of Nolan-Murphy and associates, I see that today is as busy as any other day.


    Of course, who wouldn''t want the handsome, lean muscular frame, light brown hair, strong jawline, and the sexiest green eyes, of Buford Nolan to represent you in any manner. There is also his cousin Kelvin Murphy as his partner, and good looks run in the family, just not those gorgeous eyes of Buford''s that will have you daydreaming if you don''t catch yourself. Lucky for me, he doesn''t pay much attention to me except for work.

 3 Chapter 2

    Walking to my desk that sits in front of Buford''s glass office, setting my stuff down and getting ready for the day. Looking at the day''s schedule for calls, meetings, and making sure his time is proficiently spent before he comes in.


    Answering a call while I see him get off the elevator to his office, nodding to me. It''s another appointment that I have to squeeze in his day cutting lunch short, goes to show how much his clients love him.


    He crackles on the intercom for me to come in his office a few minutes later, grabbing up my tablet that has everything linked to his daily schedule."Good morning Mr. Nolan, We have a busy schedule today, it will cut lunch short by twenty minutes, but everything else is on schedule" he never looks up while he is shuffling through papers and talks to me.


    "That''s fine, I can order in Chinese, I''m expecting an old friend of mine to stop by today, Can you please see him in when he arrives"


    Nodding my head "Yes sir, Does your friend have name?"


    Buford looks up with a twinkle in his eye "Yes I apologize, his name is Remey Borne, he''s an old childhood friend, I haven''t seen him since I graduated law school"


    Tapping the name away on the tablet I reply "If there is not anything else, I will go get our day started" he smiles at me with a beaming smile and watches me walk out the door.


    The rest of the morning passed by at a fast pace, this job requires me to multitask, answering phones, making appointments, research for cases, filing, and nonstop moving. Before I know it, Buford is telling me to order lunch and do not disturb him until the next appointment, he usually makes calls that are unscheduled during this time. His lunch and mine arrive, after giving him his, I head to the break room to eat.


    There are a few temps in the room as I sit and eat. One second I''m eating, and the next Gary from down the hall bumps into me on accident and sends me in this weird trance-like state.


    It seems like I was in the trance for hours but it was only seconds, I see Gary strolling through the French quarters with a woman late at night, and out of nowhere a bright light flashes.


    Gary leaves the women and runs to the flash in the alley, only to see a hooded figure send another flash of light, at another figure running down the alley and hits them, the guy falling down dead.


    Gary screams at the hooded figure, he turns around and I can''t see his face, only bright eyes in panic as he sees Gary. The hooded figure quickly gains his thoughts and then a bright light flashes again, and there on the ground, hooded figure was gone, Gary lies on the ground eyes staring into nothing, face frozen in shock, Dead.


    Quickly gathering the rest of my uneaten lunch and freaking out a bit, I throw it away and glance back at Gary. What was that?!


    Walking back to my desk thinking that was so realistic, vivid like my dreams but I remember everything, how? Would this really happen? This can''t be real! Why haven''t I seen anything like this before after them touching, probably because I don''t socialize much with coworkers, or no one gets close enough to touch me except Zaline.


    Chalking it up to being sleep deprived and maybe a little too caffeinated, I sit back at my desk. Lunch is over and it''s back to work.


    I glance at the clock and see it''s almost three o''clock, one more hour and I''m done for the day. Deep in thought in my research a few minutes later I hear a deep unfamiliar voice "Hello they''re gorgeous"


    Looking up I see a man with short-cropped black hair, even stronger jawline than Buford, well-toned and very tan, dressed in a casual blue t-shirt and jeans.


    I smiled at him, I freeze before I can say anything. Did it just get hot in here? Whys my tongue not working? Those blue eyes look familiar...


    Gathering myself after seeing him smirk with appreciation "Hello, I''m Acadia, Mr. Nolan''s assistant, may I help you?"


    He still has that smirk which seems to go even deeper and leaving me even more dazed "Hello Acadia, I''m Remey Borne, I''m here to see Buford" still having trouble gathering my thoughts as I process what he says.


    "Oh hello. Mr. Nolan is expecting you" I grab the phone intercom and let Buford know that Remey is here to see him, after a quick order I hang up.


    "Mr. Nolan will see you now"


    He looks at me, then behind me at the glass office, winks at me and says "Thank you gorgeous".

 4 Chapter 3

    Walking into the office I try not to stare at his backside as he goes. Wow so that''s what an attraction feels like, my cheeks are still on fire.


    The eyes are what struck me the most, where have I seen them before? Before I know it, it''s four o''clock, I call Buford on the intercom and ask if there is anything else needed for the day, trying not to think of that delicious man still in the office with him, and he tells me that all is good and he will see me Monday.


    Thanking him, I gather my backpack to leave, happy that it''s a Saturday afternoon and I''m off on Sundays, I head home. Once I get home, I eat a quick dinner and looking in my closet for what to wear for tonight.


    Calling Zaline "Today has been a weird one" she laughs, I hear her closing up the shop for the day on the other end.


    "When do you not have a weird day"


    Finding a pair of jeans and a see-through white blouse and a black tank top I reply " You won''t believe this, but I need some real rest or be locked in one of those looney bins" I quickly tell her about my encounter with Gary, and what I saw.


    "That is definitely different from your dreams, you need to tell me if anything like that happens again Acadia, it''s very important, Remember I can help you" Shaking off crazy thoughts I remember to tell her thanks, we make plans to go to a movie, then a local bar off the strip, away from tourist.


    Knowing I can''t legally drink yet, I enjoy going out with her still, she wants to treat me to my birthday even though it''s a week away, but she will be busy with haunted tours next weekend, her assistant had to take the weekend off. Which is fine with me as I never really celebrated a birthday having no family until I met Zaline.


    That is one of the best things to happen in my life. I just moved out to the city being here for about two weeks, when I found the little voodoo shop at my house. Curious I walked in to look around, seeing books on voodoo, ghosts, haunted houses, Little jars of herbs for things like sleep, Fertility, and things.


    The smell of the shop was oddly comforting, looking around she walks up to me and said " Everything happens for a reason, and you, my dear are in here for something that plagues you" I was a little creeped out by it but not being the shy person in the least bit, I told her I have nightmares and needed help.


    She then set me up on with some herbs and how to take them, leaving her shop she calls out "I will see you next week" thinking she was crazy I left. Sure enough, I was back the next week, we talked a bit more, and I would come back every day since then, and we turned into fast friends.


    She is the one who introduced me to Buford and helped get me the job, saying even though she was only five years older than me, she would be my guide in life knowing my history, which comes with a great friendship. Two years later that is exactly what she became I am forever grateful to finally have the ability to call someone somewhat family for the first time.


    Donned in my light blue jean, white blouse, and black sandals with Zaline changed into a baby blue flower knee-length dress, we walk out of the movie theater ready to head to the bar. Even though its mid-November there is still a sticky heat in the air, but perfect walking weather.


    We were casually talking about the movie when I forgot to tell her about the handsome guy who had me all tongue-tied today, so I told her about Remey, his eyes, how I couldn''t form a sentence to save my life, and how my own mind betrayed me.


    "Do you think this is blue eyes in your dream? Could be a sign, hint, hint" I blush at that statement.


    "I''m not sure but I understand why you are always drooling over the new guy you''re with now" she laughs as we reach the bar, getting our IDs out so I can receive my stamp as normal saying I''m not able to drink.


    "Did you ask for his number?" we walk up to the bar and get our drinks then find a high booth to sit and watch the band but near the pool tables as that''s my favorite to do while we''re out.


    "God no, he was Buford''s friend from growing up together and I couldn''t form a sentence anyways to ask, I wouldn''t know how to begin flirting"


    She raises an eyebrow "Buford''s friend? What''s his name?" I keep forgetting she knows Buford as well.


    "His name is Remey Borne, and oh those blue eyes" I gush. As she heard the name, she went rigid oblivious to her reaction I went on "If I see him again, I believe I will ask him out, maybe your right about being meant to be"


    Noticing she wasn''t paying much attention anymore, I told her I was going to play pool while she watched the band, she just nodded. Walking to the pool table, putting my quarters down to play next, and pick out my pool stick.


    I started a few minutes later playing an arrogant guy, little did he know I was excellent at pool. He lost and kept putting his buddies up to try and beat me.


    I looked over at Zaline to check on her, I see her boyfriend there, waving to both of them as I continue playing. After all his buddies were defeated and a few curses against me, they walked away which left me to put my stick up. before I turned around to join the others...


    I hear his voice "Hey gorgeous, I believe I have next round" Breathing a shaky breath, I turn around to see those beautiful blue eyes.


    "Well I hear she is a tough opponent, you might want to bring back up to defeat her" smiling at him.


    With that grin of his "Funny, you say that. I heard the same thing and decided to test it out myself first" He gave me a serious look over before setting the balls up on the table, Weird.


    We start playing pool and I''m down to the eight ball, He whistles "I believe I was warned gorgeous, thought I had a chance though" as I sink the eight ball.


    I gave him my brightest I told you so smiles "Very good game, you gave me some competition in the end"


    He looks at me with thoughtful look "Maybe you can give me a chance to try again soon" Oh my god, did he just ask me out!


    Quick to get over my mini freak out "Funny you should say that, I was going to be the one to ask you that" he looks a little surprised at my blunt response and smiles.


    "I have to go home in a few, but we should swap numbers to set this up at a later date" We both pull our phones out and swap numbers, Feeling awkward after the exchange, I went to shake his hand before leaving, rookie move, and he pulled away slightly making sure not to touch me, again weird. "I will text you tomorrow, have a goodnight beautiful" and he turned around and left. Going back to the table with Zaline and her boyfriend, I tell her it''s getting late and I was going to leave soon myself, she offered to take me home, but I declined, she was having fun. Hugging her bye, I started on my way home, daydreaming about my new upcoming date.

 5 Chapter 4

    Have you ever had that feeling of dread, the human fight or flight response, and you have no clue why? That is how I would explain this moment, being a few blocks from home still, I look around me frantically trying to find out why.


    Nothing suspicious right away, couples strolling up and down the sidewalks, shops closed for the night, and your random car driving down the one-way road. Maybe I shouldn''t be walking home alone this late at night, but the self-defense classes combined with surviving the fights all the time in foster life, I figured I could handle myself.


    With goosebumps and hyper-awareness, I continue walking home. Hearing a high-pitched laugh across the street, as a couple is walking the same direction as I am. Is that who I think it is?


    I''m stuck between running away or calling out Gary''s name as I remember the vision earlier that day. But I don''t have time to think when I see him run into the alley alone. Oh no, this is real!


    Running to see if I''m a lunatic with crazy issues or just going by pure instinct that I didn''t know I had, A few seconds later I''m in the alley, staring at Gary¡äs back and the hooded figure from my vision! What is going on!


    Yep, I''m going to the looney bin after this I just know it! Everything happened so fast but seemed like slow motion as I watched the startled eyes of the hooded figure, then the flash at Gary. Gary laying a few feet ahead of me dead with the same expression from my vision.


    The hooded figure was gone, and Now in total meltdown mode I stifle a scream as I''m blacking out, falling, sure to hit my head and make the crazy case worse against me, as my eyes are about to go dark when I feel a set of strong arms catch me. Then nothing but darkness.


    Feeling exhausted, I noticed I''m on something soft and not the pavement I figured I''d eventually hit with a thud, I start to open my eyes and see I''m definitely not on the ground, I''m in a huge four-poster bed with a beautiful black lace canopy over it, kind of like sleeping beauty I giggle to myself.


    Hoping I''m not in some mental person''s house, or worst yet in the bed with them, I turn my head around the room to see I''m alone, "thank the voodoo spirit" as Zaline says.


    Oh shit, where''s my phone? Did what happen last night really happen? Where''s my shoes? As I spiral a dozen questions off in my head searching frantically for my stuff, I look over the room. Seeing my cell phone is on a nightstand beside the bed, and my shoes are set near the door.


    Looking more at the room itself, I find this person has to have money with the sleek black dressers, white marble floors, and a few pieces of art on the wall. It''s all super clean, as I spot a door on my right, I open it to the biggest bathroom I have ever seen, the dark stony tile on the walls, white marble floors still, a stand-up shower, and a claw foot tub, with a large mirror.


    Of course, that''s where I head first, looking at myself I see my clothes are fine, the little eyeliner I had on last night smudged under my eyes, and my hair in a few knots. Fixing myself up quickly still not knowing whose house I''m in, phone dead and still thinking of that looney bin I head out.


    Slowly walking down the stairs still amazed at the size of this place, noticing it was day outside, thinking well that''s the first time I''ve slept without nightmares in a long time. At the bottom of the stairs I hear muffled voices coming from a room with sliding doors, looking around I see no one else in the hall with me.


    I lean in to hear who''s the house I could be at or what they are planning on doing with me. "what happened last night should have been prevented" I hear a male voice say.


    "We didn''t have any information they were in town except the vision from her with not much to go on like the for the location, or we would have handled it, they know they are in our territory" a female voice, that sounds a lot like Zaline, is she here?


    What''s going on? Who are they talking about? "They could have harmed her, or worst could have taken her if they suspect the same thing we do. She needs to be more protected, from more than me and you now, he might have seen who she was last night, and come back for her" that male voice again says.


    Taking the opportunity to figure out what''s going on and who they are talking about I knock on the door. Sounds of low cursing under the breath and footsteps walking, the door swings open and there stands Zaline!


    "Omg what is going on, how are you here? I''m glad it''s you and not a creeper, but who were you talking to and about who? She steps in to hug me and calm me at the same time.


    "Come in Arcadia, I''m sure you know your boss Buford, this is his house, he is the one who found you last night and called me" I look up at those green eyes of his like he is actually noticing me for the first time. What In the name of hell is going on!

 6 Chapter 5

    "I''m sure you have a lot of questions, but we have to ask you what happened last night before you passed out" looking at Buford still, we take a seat in the chairs in his house office.


    I told her about the vision again I had of Gary, and what happened in the alley. They both looked at me with serious expressions, and a few questions as to what the hooded figure looked like, and if I knew who the other body was on the other side of the alley.


    I answered them as best I could, and Buford looking at me like I was wonder women or something, what''s up with these weird moments lately. "What were you doing near the alley Mr. Nolan?" he bristles.


    "Call me Buford from now on Acadia, and I was headed back home from a meeting when I''ve seen you passing out" Doubting his huge loft is anywhere near my house or the alley.


    "Is Gary dead? You know he works with us as a temp right?" Zaline answers this time.


    "Yes he is dead, are you ok?"


    Contemplating the question, I''m thinking back to what I heard them talking about earlier "Yes and no actually, it''s tragic with what happened to Gary but it felt as if I already went through the emotions in the vision, but what I want to know is who you two were talking about before I knocked and what is this vision stuff I''m having? I know weird stuff is possible because of you" I said looking at her "but does this mean something I need to know about?"


    They both look at each other with a grimace and then towards me, neither could form words at the moment until finally, Buford spoke up "As you know that Zaline and I have known each other for a long time, and she has a form of magic that is tied to the spirit world, what I''m going to tell you might freak you out and you have to promise not to run away without hearing us out first" sitting on the edge of the chair now, do I want to know what''s going on, I knew she had spirit guides as she called them but magic? magic is not a thing other than that, is it?


    I nod in agreement for him to continue "our families have been friends for as long as we can remember. We are in a group of people that have types of magic that are more than voodoo" Did I hear him correctly?


    "Our parents have gone searching for our leader J''havia, leaving us with the responsibility to maintain, protect and control our group. We were once a large group with all types of magic, that was controlled by J''havia, which was the most powerful of us all, Our leaders produce an heir with similar ability''s if not stronger, with determination, she kept us all together without the threat of humans knowing who we were and doing any harm to them" thinking that maybe should be in the looney bin also, sure this is believable, but deep down something is tugging at me to listen.


    "She disappeared fifteen years ago with her young daughter, the next heir, without a trace of where she went, the group starting getting out of control without her leadership, We split into two groups, one that still believes in our leader''s values, and the other trying to destroy them. We are on the side of protecting humans and our secret"


    Holding up a finger for him to stop for a second sinking back into my chair. So magic is real, I have all these questions as they spiral in my head. I''ve always known something was up, I feel it deep in my bones and soul. "Am I the person you''re supposed to protect from your conversation earlier?" I ask out loud before I knew it.


    Zaline finally pipes up "Yes Acadia, from the first day you came in the shop, I knew you had abilities, I could sense them. We were to watch over you until you manifest them, and bring you into the group. That is the way of us, to bring anyone with magic into our group and help them before the other group found you, which are called Merdique"


    My head is spinning with information overload but I know they are telling the truth, and I''m a very accepting person. I''ve learned how to accept and adapt to things quickly. I''m not going to scream and run away, I''m more curious now than anything since the shock wore off. The only other question is to wonder is What kind of magic do I have?

 7 Chapter 6

    After a few minutes of silence, I look at them both, they are looking at me like I might bolt at any moment. "Are you hungry Acadia? I was about to order some lunch, and we can answer any of your questions while we eat" looking at Buford, I nod in agreement.


    Zaline pipes up "I brought some clothes for you to change in if you want to get a shower and dressed" looking at me.


    "Yes, that would actually be nice, it would give me a minute to process all of this before I hear more" Buford brings me back to the room I was sleeping in, with a quick explanation that it''s one of his guest rooms.


    He lets me know there should be everything I need in the room to get ready, with one last look at me and a smile he leaves me to myself. Taking a quick shower, dressing and blow-drying my hair, I feel a bit better than this morning. Armed with all my wits back, mind focused, and a handful of questions, I head back downstairs.


    It smells like the food has arrived, my stomach growling as it agrees, guess I was hungrier than I thought. Going back in, we sit in the same spots and start eating. Of course, diving right in "What powers do I have?"


    Zaline answers me "As far as I can tell, you have the gift of precognition, which is the ability to see the future"


    I nod "OK, is that common? I''ve had these dreams my whole life and they just started to get clear, along with this new thing when Gary touched me"


    She looks at me while a small smile "It is not rare but also not common, most people have small premonitions, just in bits and pieces, not as you have them. Pure magic born children usually fully develop their powers by eighteen, and have help from our parents and the group to guide them".


    Setting my plate down "Seeing as I''m nineteen and have no parents, I see why I''m a bit behind'' I laugh.


    Buford looks like he wants to hug me but instead says "I¡äm sorry that you didn''t have anyone growing up, but we are here now and will help you in any way"


    Having a genuine smile for the first time today "Thank you, Buford, speaking of, I know what Zaline does, what is your magic ability?"


    With a very attractive grin, he looks at me, and all of a sudden there is a green fire in his hand, just dancing in his palm like it is natural.


    "Wow, does it hurt?"


    He put the fire out by closing his hand "No, it''s part of me, I control it easy as breathing air" still looking like a star-struck fan, I look at him.


    He is just so handsome and add this protective and sensitive side to it, consider me swooned. Blinking myself out of my thoughts "Who was the guy in the alley? he had something like that, but his was like a ball of lightning"


    They both look at each other before answering me "We believe he was part of Merdique, they know this is our territory and are not supposed to be here, but we''ve noticed more activity lately" Zaline speaks up.


    "It''s like they are looking for something or someone, they haven''t been harming many people, just in and out" Buford continues "but to answer your other question, he has the orb power"


    wow, there is a lot to learn if this is going to be my new life.

 8 Chapter 7

    We all decided that there was plenty of time to learn everything later, being as I was over the shock and the main questions out of the way.


    We finished eating and casually talked about how to act like everything is the same at work, and go about life as normal. With a warning from Buford about touching anyone to avoid any visions, me and Zaline left with a thank you.


    She walked me home, asking if I was sure I was ok like ten thousand times, after reassuring her over and over again. I just wanted to get home and relax.


    Walking into my apartment around five in the afternoon, looking around and grimaced at the difference in mine and Buford''s housing, but it''s home and its mine. Time to binge-watch Netflix and get ready for work tomorrow.


    Around eight, my phone goes off with the text message tone, who could be texting me?


    It was Remey ''Hello shah, enjoyed last night, when can we see each other again'' ugh I totally forgot about seeing him last night with all the craziness.


    I text back ''I enjoyed it too, maybe tomorrow night after work"


    The phone dings a second later ''I''ll pick you up from the office, I have to see Buford tomorrow anyway, bring tennis shoes, even though those heels look great on you''


    Oh my, he makes me blush through a text message, just hope I can keep my thoughts straight around him in person. After shooting off a confirmation text, I find myself drifting off in a deep slumber.


    I¡äm in an alley with a woman, she has the most beautiful face I''ve ever seen, those golden eyes a lot like mine. We¡äre running as my little legs can¡ät keep up, she picks me up and keeps running, fear in her eyes.


    I looked behind us, to see three men chasing us, one of them is gliding behind the other men with a devious smile on his face, the rest of him is covered in a hooded black cape.


    The woman still running, flashes a white-colored orb at the guys, missing them, she flings her hand at a wall next and the thing collapses, leaving a gap for us the getaway.


    The women wildly running stops for a second and puts me down, putting a note on my shirt, she says "Remember, I love you always, and will find you again, Be safe, you are Acadia"


    I start crying as she brings me to a door, knocking wildly, and tells me to stay there, She runs around the corner as the door opens to a nurse. I look back and the women that I know as my mother is gone.


    Waking up screaming, fighting my vision and feelings. Realizing I''m at home and ok, I take huge breaths. That was my mother, I have never seen her before, how could I remember what she looked like.


    Still shaking a bit, I look over to see that its five forty-five am, oh shit I''ll be late for work. Smoothing my hair, slapping on eyeliner, and getting dressed in my typical skirt, blouse, and heels.


    I almost run out the door, remembering my date today, grabbing some shorts, tank top, and tennis shoes quickly. Wow, what a vision? Or dream? I''ll talk to Buford today if I''m not fired for being late.

 9 Chapter 8

    As I get to work, remembering to act normal. We start our day like every day, after briefing him on his schedule, I let him know I have to tell him about something I ''saw'' last night, and him reassuring I''m not fired for being two minutes late with a hearty laugh, we continue our day.


    As it nears lunchtime, Buford asks me to order lunch for two. I do as asked, and when it arrives, I bring it to him as normal. He waves me in the office, closing the door behind me "Sit down Acadia, now that you know the truth, we probably need to spend a little more time together"


    Nervously I put the food on his desk and dish out the portions for us both "What was it that you wanted to tell me? You can speak freely here, the walls are soundproof if you haven''t noticed" he said with a wink.


    Is he flirting with me, I blush a little, as this is the second guy to make me do so in the past two days. I know I''ve worked for him for a long time, but I guess him keeping a low profile and eye on my magic abilities, he never talked with me like this before, and I believe I like it.


    "Yes, I had another vision or maybe it was a dream last night, it''s the first time I''ve had this" I started telling him about my dream, he looks at me intently and focused on every word I say, once finished, he rakes his hand through his hair with a sigh.


    "I''m so sorry that happened to you, I wish there was something I could do to make it better, but on a good note, this is a development in your abilities" Looking up sharply and curios, he notices and explains further "It seems your abilities are getting stronger, and you can see more than the future, you can see the past as well, were you thinking of anything before you went to sleep? And are you sure she made the wall come down or someone else? And the orb as well?"


    Blushing even more "Yes I was thinking of my date today, well the person I''m going with really"


    His eyebrows rose up a bit with a little smile at the corner of his mouth "Nothing to warrant the dream of my mother, or maybe it was everything I learned yesterday. And yes, it was her, I watched her hand go towards the wall and she flicked it towards where the wall fell. As well as the orb like the guy in the alley"


    He stared at me for a few seconds mumbling something about impossible, can''t be, and there''s no way. Finally, he asked "Did she happen to say the name of the man chasing her?" looking at me intently.


    I shake my head no, wondering who it was myself. He breathes a breath of relief and smiles again "The reason I ask, is that it¡äs not normal to have more than one power unless you are an heir. If she did the orb and the wall, maybe she just did it with another orb. I thought maybe for a second you could be Z''havias daughter. But she never had precognition, and the note your mother left on you, doesn''t make sense with the name Acadia. The heir''s name was Adaline"


    For a split second my heart constricted, but he''s right, it doesn''t fit with what I''ve been told. We continue talking and eating, him telling me about how the group is scattered all throughout different states, but the people on the council stay in New Orleans.


    They are mixed with different races, and magic and all kids born with magic must come from two magic people. He says most people decide to do that, as it''s hard not to be able to be themselves with a human family.


    They do get together for holidays and meetings regularly, keeping up with each other consistently, as everyone is responsible for the safety of humans and keeping taps on any Merdique.


    Taking in all of this as if it were part of my normal day, I listen and hope to meet some of the others, curious as to what magic is out there.

 10 Chapter 9

    After lunch, we both go back to work. It must be hard for Buford to be a lawyer during the day and part of the council protecting humans daily, sound exhausting.


    Deciding I will do whatever needed on my part to help, as I look into the office at all the unaware humans. Sounds like my family is going to grow, and I''m secretly happy about it.


    Next thing you know I see Remey coming towards me "Afternoon shah, Is Buford in"


    Oh, here I go swooning over that sexy half-smirk "He is, I''ll let him know your here"


    A few seconds later he¡äs in his office. Looking into the office of both the sexiest men alive, they couldn''t be more different. Buford is a bit humble, knowing he is handsome but doesn''t flaunt it or use it to his advantage, very caring and sweet, and smart.


    Then we have Remey, he flaunts his good looks, openly flirts and seems to have an edge to him, and seems a bit arrogant. They both make me blush, and yet only one has asked me out.


    About an hour later, I go change into my black shorts, and a crimson tank top, brushing through my hair again and putting my tennis shoes on. It''s time to leave for the day, as I walk back to my desk to see the guys come out of the office looking a little less friendly than the day before.


    Remey smile and comes up to me "Are you ready to go?"


    Buford looks at me with a shocked and maybe a disapproving glance, but then changes into his normal nice self "I wasn''t aware you two knew each other" looking at Remey and I.


    "Oh we ran into each other at a bar Saturday night after meeting her here, I asked her out after getting my butt kicked in pool, a very attractive skill" Remey replies with a wink.


    I shyly look at Buford "Is everything ok? Is there anything else before we leave for the day?"


    Buford looks at me for with a straight look "No everything is good, enjoy your date" and walks back into his office. With a mixture of guilt and excitement, we head out.


    He brings me to the French Quarter, strolling around the art by the park, watch the street dancers and random robot or golden statues on the corners, with casual conversation, asking each other little questions about our lives.


    He is a single child of a semi wealthy family, his parents passed away a few years ago, he traveled to a lot of places for work and recently moved to the city. He is a private investigator and owns his own company, opening his office here in a few months. He says that''s why he came to Buford to offer his services and knowing they grew up around each other, that he wouldn''t say no.


    Before you know it, it gets late, and he offers to walk me home. Were on the steps to my apartment now, and that weird sense comes back, the one where I feel like something terrible is going to happen. Hyper alert, and wide-eyed, I look at Remey "Something doesn''t seem right"


    He looks around "Do you want me to walk you inside?" shaking my head yes and still being extra aware of my surroundings, we walk inside.


    Stopping before we reach my apartment, noticing the door is open the same time he does. He tells me to stay in the hallway, while he goes inside. He comes back a few minutes later shaking his head and says it''s ok to come inside.


    I walk in to see that my place has been completely torn apart, couch''s ripped open, tv smashed, kitchen items strewed all on the floor, my bedroom looks similar, with a shaky breath I collapse on the ground crying. Who would do something like this? Why me, what were they looking for?


    Remey walks over to me without touching me "I¡äm sorry, it looks like someone was looking for something, or someone" Looking at me.


    "I don''t know what they would be looking for, I have nothing of value except the tv, everything is second hand, no jewelry, and no one but myself lives here" Still shaking my head and crying "I need to call the cops I guess"


    He stood quickly "If nothing is missing, there''s no point really, maybe you should come back to my place and we can figure out what to do" Looking at him in shock.


    "Thank you, but I don''t think that would be a good idea on our first date and all, I''ll call my friend Zaline, she will know what to do"

 11 Chapter 10

    Zaline shows up at the apartment, with Buford on her heels "Oh honey, are you ok?" as she comes to hug me, I didn''t have a vision of her thank god, being terrified to touch her and see one.


    "Yes I''m physically ok, thanks to Remey, we were out when it happened, and he checked the apartment before letting me in"


    Zaline looks at Remey up and down and with a sarcastic tone "Well thank goodness you were here" looking confused I look between the two still looking with a scowl at each other.


    "You two must know each other"


    Remey answers first "Yes we grew up with each other and Buford, we didn''t really get along, as she would call me a trouble maker" Zaline laughs with a bitterness, mumbling about how trouble is his middle name.


    Buford gets on his knee looking me in the eyes "Did you" Looking at Remey then continued "see anything?"


    Looking into his concerned eyes "No, there were no visions, but I did feel that weird sense of danger again when we walked up to the apartment, like by the alleyway"


    At this point being clueless to the conversation Remey pipes up "Visions? What¡äs he talking about?"


    We look at him, then Buford decides to speak "Acadia, gather your things, please help her Zaline, I''ll explain to him"


    Thirty minutes later with two bags and my handy backpack ready, we all meet outside, Remey eyeing me a little closer than normal "Didn''t figure you for one of us"


    I look at him and say "Us? You have abilities too?"


    He then smiles that famous smirk that makes my knees weak "Why yes shah, I would show you, but maybe another time" with a wink, and blush from me.


    Buford joins in "Acadia, you''re coming to stay with me in the guest room, we discussed this and it''s safer at my place than Zalines, you can ride to work and back with me, and keep you safe between us all, it seems the hooded figure might be after you"


    A little shocked no one asked my opinion but happy not to sleep on her couch I agree. Telling Remey thank you, I''m sorry and ill text him tomorrow, we said goodbye. Then telling Zaline ill see her after work tomorrow, reassuring her I''m ok, we got in the car and left. There goes the only thing that was mine, even though I was going to renew the lease next month, I sure don''t want to be there anymore...


    Buford looks at me as he drives us to his house that''s a few blocks away "so how was the date then?" out of nowhere a laugh bubbles up in me, the next thing you know we''re both laughing, all the way into the house.


    I thank him, taking my stuff into the guest room, he told me there will be some food in the kitchen when I''m ready. After putting my stuff away and getting a shower, I put on some pajama pants and a grey hoodie, head down to the kitchen.


    Buford finishing heating some delicious smelling food and fixes us both a plate. I noticed he showered and changed into some pajama shorts as well, but wearing a tight white t-shirt, I can see every muscle as he moves about.


    Trying not to drool, and have fantasies about my boss especially after having just been on a date with his friend. "Make yourself at home, what''s mine is yours as they say, and if you need anything the maid and butler will be here in the morning, don''t hesitate to ask" I thank him.


    We finish eating and head to bed without any more conversation, ready for this night to be over with, I pass out the second I hit the plush pillow.

 12 Chapter 11

    For the next week, it''s the same routine, for the most part, we wake up, go to work, come back to the house. We eat dinner together, talking and laughing every night, he sure knows how to make me forget all my troubles.


    I learned that he was also a single child, raised knowing about magic and hearing the history of the group, he was part of the main group once but doesn''t remember the leader as he was a little.


    His parents were part of the council as he is now, and they remain good friends with Zaline''s parents. Growing up they always hung out together, and Zaline was right, anytime they got into trouble it was all under Remey''s influence.


    He became a lawyer in the human world to help both communities and make a living protecting the innocent, it''s natural to him to be protective as he was raised to be.


    Zaline pops by a couple of times, eating dinner with us, and staying with me when Buford had to leave, we would watch movies and gossip about some of the people in the group that I haven''t met yet, or about how her boyfriend is being distant lately due to her busy schedule, her assistant has been calling out a lot lately, causing her to work more.


    Me and Remey have been texting back and forth every day as well, he has been busy setting up his office as well, and still being very flirty, making me smile and blush even through text.


    We have also been working on my visions, I touch Zaline and never see anything from her, Buford doesn''t want to know anything involving him, so he doesn''t volunteer.


    All it leaves us is to focus on my dreams, which have been about the death of people I never met and ends with a vision of my mother''s face every time. Relaying this information to them, they set out to stop or help these people as best as they can, as my visions are stronger the more I focus.


    Its Saturday night and were off work tomorrow, Remey and I had set a date to go out tonight and try not to run into trouble this time as he says. I walk downstairs that night dressed in a thigh-length black dress, that bunches off the shoulders, my hair swept up into a low bun dangling bits of hair from it and on the side of my face, and slim heels to match.


    He said we were going to a jazz club, and then dinner. Buford is on the couch in the living room, watching tv when I walk in. He looks over at me, and with an expression I''ve never seen, time stands still for a second as we look at each other, then a knock at the door makes me lose eye contact.


    Answering the door and seeing Remey dressed in a black tux with that sly smirk on his face, and low whistle as he looks me up and down with appreciation, I invite him inside for a moment. Seeing Remey himself, Buford seems to get out of his trance and they shake hands "Are you all heading out?"


    Remey smiles "Yes I''m going to bring her to a jazz club and get some dinner" Looking at us, then at me again with a look that I think is jealousy and tells us to be careful.


    We stay at the jazz club enjoying the music, we danced quite a bit, he surprisingly is great at it. He then takes me to a nice Italian restaurant, we laugh and enjoy ourselves. This is a lot easier to talk to him than with my ex, Remey listens intently and answers, our conversation flows easily.


    His charm and wit making me smile, seeing him as a very attractive prospect for a boyfriend. My smile falters a bit, as I think of Buford, we have gotten a lot closer since all of this started and I feel the same about him as much as Remey.


    They both make me smile, happy, and a little hot just looking at them. Again, noting the difference in them, and the fact that Buford never said anything to me or asked me out himself, but the looks he gives me sometimes makes me think it''s mutual.


    Figuring if he did, it''s his loss if he doesn''t say anything until then I''ll enjoy my time with Remey.

 13 Chapter 12

    On our way back, I noticed that he looking at me "So Buford told me about your powers, we still haven''t discussed them" he told me.


    I look back at him "It''s different to know the dreams are not just dreams, and they are the future, but I adapt quickly. Is that why you avoid touching me?" he looks a little sheepish and nods.


    "Yeah I''m not sure I want to know anything, or have you know my next move" he looks at me with a serious face. What does that mean? We take a shortcut through an alley, it''s so late no one is really out and about.


    I stop completely with that sense of danger again, and I can only get out Remey''s name before the hooded figure pops up a few feet in front of us. Coiled in a defensive stance, an orangish glow orb in his hands, looking straight at me.


    Remey jumps in front of me with a protective stance, then the air starts whipping all around us forming a sort of barrier between us and the hooded figure. "Who are you? What do you want from us?" Remey asked.


    I''m still staring at the hooded figure and I actually get a good look at his face this time, white as a ghost, dark spots below his eyes, sunken cheeks, and his lips are.... looking closer, his lips are sewn shut! Gross!


    Without thinking I grab Remey to let him know the guy''s mouth is sewn shut and cannot answer, and as soon as I touched his shoulder, so many things happened at once.


    Remey stiffened at my touch, my hand not moving from his shoulder, I didn''t have a vision, it was something entirely different. This overwhelming urge of power surging through me, feeling like a weight in my body, at the same time the hooded figure lets his orb go flying towards us, as a tornado-like wind tunnel went flying back at him. A bright light flashes and dies just as fast.


    Both powers stopping the other before anyone gets hit, the weight of power so overwhelming in my body, I scream, as I''m still holding onto Remey still, the wind picks up speed and a whirl of wind coming out of Remey''s hands again even more powerful than before.


    He starts to look at his hands in astonishment, trying to control the sudden power. I scream louder as I feel the power start leaving my body, the pain starting to subside, and the whirl goes with such a huge rush.


    It forces us back a few steps, taking the pain with it, straight to the hooded figure. Pain is gone now and panting as everything took my breath. I look up to see the hooded figure on the ground, splayed out dead, then his body floated into little pieces of what looked like ashes, and disappeared.


    Remey still looking in bewilderment between me, his hands, and the spot the hooded figure disappeared. I only had a few seconds when I looked at him with a smile "So that''s what your power is, wind, oh my hair must be a mess...." before my world went black yet again.


    Waking up in the black lace canopy bed again, with a heavy feeling, and a throbbing headache. I''m still in my dress, minus the shoes, and looks as if someone tucked me into bed.


    I look over on the nightstand and see a glass of water and a bottle of ibuprofen. Thanking the voodoo spirits, I gulped it down and head to the shower. Thirty minutes later, relaxed and clean, dressed in a simple black t-shirt, flip flops, and blue jean shorts, I head downstairs.


    Combing through my wet hair on the way down to get the knots out, and tying it in a high ponytail on my head. Knowing I''m quick at adapting to life and the changes, I still have the occasional, what the hell was that moment.


    I¡äm not sure what happened last night, but it seems I should never touch anyone again, the strangest pain searing through me, but not actually harming me. Still feeling the sting as I thought on it, and trying to figure out why the guy had his mouth sewn shut, and coming after me, maybe it''s because he saw me in the alley, and I''m new to this world and don''t have powers like Buford and Remey to protect myself as much. Whatever it was, it''s gone now, and I''m safe again.

 14 Chapter 13

    I walk into the kitchen to drop the glass from my room in the sink and hear arguing. Not wanting to eavesdrop again, as I trust them to tell me what''s going on now.


    I walk into the office to see Buford and Remey toe to toe. They stop quickly and stare at me as I walk in, breaking them apart after a heavy sigh on both parts. Myself not being the least bit shy "What''s going on guys?"


    Buford starts pacing the room as Remey sits beside me "I was just letting Buford know what happened last night, and he was a little upset being the ''it''s my responsibility to protect her'' macho man on me" he says with a wink.


    Buford stops pacing to Glare at him and replies "Your right, it is my responsibility, she wouldn''t have been in danger if she wasn''t out last night, especially not in dark alleyways in the middle of the night" With a growl at Remey.


    "Wow gentlemen, I''m a big girl, and can make decisions for myself, it was just me in the alley, and I felt the danger before he popped up, plenty of time to run if I was" I laugh nervously.


    "When you touched me last night, did you have a vision? You were screaming, and everything went haywire" I look at Remey with dread.


    "No I didn''t, I felt something different, a pain that I felt, like heavy electricity running through my body, but when you shot him, it went away" They both look at me as I''ve grown another head, still staring with curiosity maybe, or just confusion.


    After a raised eyebrow from me a few seconds later, Remey responded "Sweety, I didn''t shoot him with my ability myself, something was forcing me to do it, a very powerful force that I couldn''t control, and my normal power is no match to kill one of them, only damage" Both Buford and Remey still staring at me like I know the answer.


    I shake my head, was that me? I just stare back at them, and in a small voice "I don''t know what happened, what do you mean one of them?"


    Buford Finally finds his voice "He was raised by a necromancer, he was technically dead, and was raised along with his magic powers. They are hard to kill, usually only by a powerful force like the heir" the heir?


    Here we go again, that can''t be me! He doesn''t know what he¡äs talking about "or killed by the necromancer that raised him" Remey looks with wide eyes all of a sudden, looks at me then Buford.


    "Do you think she could be the heir? Is that why you two have been keeping an eye on her? Does the council share this concern?" shaking his head looking at me with new respect, or pity, I can''t be sure, but I don''t like the sound of any of it.


    It''s been two weeks since the conversation we had about possibly being the heir, after profuse denial and arguments, we decided he was going to call upon the council to have a meeting, with me at the center.


    Buford excused me from work until we figure things out, calling in a temp, and still paying me my normal salary. He insisted I stay at his house still for safety, I didn''t argue, I''m lapping up the luxurious life while I can, and not having anywhere to go at the moment.


    Not being able to leave the house unless escorted by either one of three for protection, as it seems the necromancer is still out there with no telling how many puppets. It''s been nice to relax, movie nights with Buford sometimes, and our new tradition of nightly dinner, Remey, and Zaline stopping in randomly to check on me.


    In three days from now, the council meeting is fast approaching, as they called in an oracle for help on the matter, supposedly she can tell us what they want to know, she is all-knowing of everything past, present, and future.


    Buford and I just wrapped up dinner, and we are washing dishes together, which is another part of our nightly routine. "Tell me, Buford, why is there no lucky lady in your life?"


    Buford looks like he is thinking, and slowed down on washing the dish he had in his hand "Well, I''ve had a few dates in the past few months, but no one interested me enough to stick around, I''ve been single since college, dating here and there, but no one sticks"


    I look at him with a grin, not being able to help myself anymore "So no one catches your fancy enough, or are you holding out for someone else?"


    He looks at me with a blush "Yes" continuing the dishes and not looking at me anymore "I guess you would say I''m holding out for someone"


    I hide a small smile, hoping maybe he talking about me, but at the same time not. Ugh, why do I have to like both of these guys, at the same time? But again, Buford never said anything, our chemistry is apparent even to Zaline, I wonder why he just won''t say anything.


    I give up the questions, still unsure if I want to know the answer, or maybe just exhausted at the answers. Laying my head down that night, stomach full, and a little frustrated, I fall into a slumber, a very bad one.

 15 Chapter 14

    I¡äm sitting in a room with grey granite walls and long tables filled with all kinds of different people. It looks like a modern type large cellar, with slick walls and floors, there are two tables on each side of the room filled with unknown faces, and a podium in the front across from the only door in.


    There''s also a chair beside it, I''m sitting there. I don''t know any of these people, then I see Zaline at the table on my right, and Buford at the podium, speaking to everyone. Buford continues talking, as one of the most beautiful women I''ve ever seen walks in, dressed in a floor-length green dress, golden bangles on her arms, and long white hair almost as long as her dress walks in.


    She has a youthful pixie-like face, but you can see the wisdom and age in her eyes. Everyone stands up and slightly bows as she stands in front of me.


    Buford once again speaking, I stand and the woman tries to grab my hand, with a slight shock, I pull back. She smiles and puts her hand out for me to grab again, this time I don''t let go. We were standing there for a few moments. Everything was peaceful until it wasn''t.


    I wake up before seeing anything further, still feeling the sense of danger in the vision, sweating a bit, trying to breathe to find Buford in the room.


    He is beside my bed yelling my name and stops when he sees I''m awake. All of a sudden, he wraps me up in his arms, sitting on the bed, holding me tight.


    This is nice, I''m still dreaming, no I''m not, still breathing hard and trying to calm down. After a few seconds, he pulls back just enough to look at my face "Are you ok? I know you have nightmares, but this one seemed really bad, I was worried about you, I haven''t heard you scream like that before"


    Looking up at him, I notice all of a sudden, he''s shirtless, omg I''m wrapped around his shirtless oh so sexy muscular body. I stiffen a bit at the thoughts and the situation, only for him to release me a bit more with a sheepish blush, but doesn''t let me go completely.


    "I''m, well, I''m not sure. It was a bad one, but I think I blocked the last part out, the feeling of dread and being terrified still in my head" he looks at me again with a serious look.


    "I won''t let anything happen to you, I promise" Then he leans down and kisses me. Oh my god, he''s kissing me, and I''m kissing him back!


    He starts off tender then it turns a little steamier, as his hand rake through my hair to the back of my neck, my hand wondering on his shirtless back, then a small vision of us back in the sleek cellar, I see his face and the terror in his beautiful green eyes.


    I jumped back faster than I thought I could move, falling on the floor and quickly remove any limbs that were touching. He went to grab me off the floor "Stop, don''t touch me" still panting from the kiss and the beginning of a vision "Please don''t touch me, I can''t. I can''t see it; I don''t want to" he looks at me with a little embarrassment, anger at himself, and curiosity.


    "You''ve seen how I... How I die?" I shake my head no "I stopped before I could see any more, I can''t Buford, I care about you, and I just can''t think about anything happening to you"


    He looks at me a tender smile "I understand, I apologize, I shouldn''t have touched you, but I do feel the same, I care about you too" we both look at each other and before I try to go back into his arms.


    I tell him "Why didn''t you tell me this before, you know I''m dating Remey" With Remey''s name dropped, it seemed to act as a cooler to Buford.


    "Your right, I shouldn''t have kissed you, I''m sorry it won''t happen again, I''m glad you''re ok, I just wanted to check on you" and then he storms out of the room. Shutting the door behind him, strangely taking a piece of my heart with him.


    Knowing I won''t go back to sleep, I decide to lay down for a few more hours and sneak to Zaline''s house in the morning. I need advice, a friend, and to tell her about my vision, maybe she could heal what my heart feels with some good old spirit magic, or maybe just by being my best friend.


    I go over in my head what just happened, and it makes sense, I''m the girl he''s been holding out for, and he''s had over a year to say something, what has been stopping him? I eventually fall back to sleep anyways, dreaming of the man that was chasing my mother and me, and my mother''s beautiful face disappearing as I''m hauled into the house, she dropped me off at, never to see her again.

 16 Chapter 15

    One more day until the council meeting, as I''m walking to Zaline''s shop this morning. I snuck out without Buford noticing or maybe he was avoiding me as well after last night.


    This meeting will hopefully tell me what is going on with me, and these walking corpses of magic. I actually wish we wouldn''t, after last night, I want to curl back in my own little world away from everyone, it was easier with my visions when I didn''t have people to care about.


    Zaline looked up as the door dinged and I walked through, stopping before her normal greeting leaves her lips, looking behind me, waiting for one of the guys to pop up behind me. I look around and see no one here yet, as she just opened up the store "Are you by yourself?"


    I look at her, and couldn''t hold back anymore as I break down in tears, as she moves to come to hug me, I stop her shaking my head no, terrified to see her and anything to do with the vision from last night.


    She tells me to sit down and goes to fix me some herbal tea to calm me down, even though this one smells better, I''m hoping they taste better than the last, even though I can''t really taste anything at the moment, with all these tears.


    Zaline being the ever-patient friend, she just waited to soothe me with it will be ok words. After a few minutes I calm down enough to talk, I told her about my vision of the room, and how I woke up before I saw it all, about Buford and the kiss, the vision of his eyes so full of terror, everything that happened after with us, and how I have feelings for both guys.


    She just listens intently without ever interrupting me, waiting until I got it all out, only walking away to fix another cup of tea for both of us. "Honey, I know you have been through a lot lately, and you know you have someone in your corner, I''ll always be here for you, Heir or not, you''re my friend"


    After sitting with her a while and talking for the first half of the morning in between customers, I feel better about things and accept the fact that I''m not alone in this life anymore.


    Helping her in the shop makes my sense of normal return as well, being cooped up in that house the past two weeks, it''s nice to have a change.


    Remey text me checking on me, I tell him I''m at the shop with Zaline and he comes by to help as well. Everyone in lighter spirits as we''re closing down shop, until Buford walks in with a brooding look, at our smiling faces.


    Locking the door and heading up to Zaline''s apartment, we settle in while I tell them about the vision of the room. I''m told this is the council meeting room that they always use that located right outside of town at some council-owned home down the bayou.


    All four of us come with a plan of extra security and only allowing security and council members on the property. With Remey not on the council, he will act as security.

 17 Chapter 16

    We are all in the car heading to the council meeting, Buford is driving us the thirty minutes of town, he¡äs dressed in a similar fashion as Remey, black jeans and button-up shirts.


    Zaline in her fashion of bright clothes, and myself in a burgundy dress, hair down and black sandals. No one speaks, all of us lost in thought, halfway through the trip I see a hand reach out to me, only to look at Zaline with a small smile and nod toward her hand. She wants me to grab it, I know, but I''m terrified.


    She looks at me and reassures me with "It will help you protect us if you know what''s coming, you don''t have to tell us, it''s for your knowledge" hesitating at first, then deciding she''s right, only I can see it, and only I can help prevent it, I take her hand.


    With a gasp, the vision brings me to looking at Buford''s terrified eyes before looking at the door with all the commotion, and the door burst open with a bright light.


    Three men rush in with sunken cheeks, pale eyes, and mouths sewn shut, with the guy from my dreams that was chasing my mother hovering right behind them, staring straight at me with that evil smile from before. Hello Adeline, I''ve been looking for you for a long time my dear...


    I pull back my hand with a shaky breath and can''t bring myself to open my eyes yet, this guy was chasing me, my mother was protecting me, why was she so scared of him? Zaline nods at me, making sure I''m ok, then looking back out the window.


    I don''t understand the feeling taking over me now, but I''m ready for it, ready to protect me and my new friends and finish what my mother started fifteen years ago when she hid me from him, ready to face whatever happens in that room, knowing I''m not alone.


    Still, in my thoughts, I didn''t notice until we parked the car, looking around as we got out, I was amazed. We weren''t exactly in a swamp, but there was water on each side of the road, and this two-story castle style house was a beautiful sight, with a high iron gated yard, and about a dozen men dressed in black along the fence and house.


    Remey comes and walks beside me, walking to the front door, noticing several cars parked around us, it seems we are late for the party, with one last look at my surroundings, we go inside.


    Following Buford and Zaline, Remey''s still walking beside me, we head to a staircase that leads to a basement. There stands a small room with a heavy metal door, guarded by two big mean-looking men, Buford nods at the men and they let us in, leaving Remey behind as he is not allowed in the meeting, with one last good look from him, the door is locked behind us.


    The room looking exactly like my vision, a podium at the far wall in the middle of the room, with a chair next to it. Two tables filled with eight unknown faces, in a slick grey granite walled room, with matching floors a hint darker than the walls.


    Zaline sits at the table to the right of the chair, taking the seat closest to the podium, while shaking hands and waving at a few people. Buford gestures to the chair upfront as he goes behind the podium, asking me to sit. I look around at the unknown faces, all staring at me, some with aww, some with confusion, and some with what looks like hope.


    No one has said a word since we walked in, and it just makes me feel a bit more awkward and out of place. With that sinking feeling in my gut, something bad will happen soon, and I don''t know how to stop it.

 18 Chapter 17

    "As you know, we have gathered the full council to find out if the possibility of this young lady is the missing heir is possible. We will be joined soon by the oracle Janelle and will put this to the test. In the meantime, we need to discuss the danger of the Merdique coming into our territory unannounced and attacking innocent people, and coming after Acadia" after hearing a few gasps, and hushed talking, he asked me to stand, I do with a shaky smile.


    "Silence please, this is Acadia, we discovered her ability of precognition when she befriended Zaline a few years ago, and have been keeping an eye on her to see if she was part of Merdique. After discovering she was not aware of our world at all, we decided to leave her be, until the first attack. Then we let her in on our secrets and brought her under our protection, as most of you are aware of. She has continued to have visions and running into danger, Merdique seems to want something from her, and we recently discovered she might be the heir, due to her possibly having another ability, the rare ability of power augmentation. As we know this is the power that lets you heighten another''s power''s by touching them" Buford stops speaking, standing silently looking at everyone.


    Silent shocked stares looking at me, and shocked a bit myself, that''s what that was? I was the one forcing Remey''s powers that night, damn. "I would like to open the floor to the discussion now" as I sit back down, the room erupts into talking, yelling, and arguments.


    Buford holds his hand up for silence, then looking at an older woman at the opposite table of Zaline "Mother, would you like to start first?"


    His mother! Wow now that I look at her, I can see the resemblance, He is a spitting image of her, blonde hair, slender but muscular frame, and those green eyes that I love so much "Thank you, Buford, I''m Claudette by the way"


    Looking at me "as you know your father is out of town with the other elders still searching and they sent me as their voice" With a nod from Buford and a few others, she continued "I have one question first, How did you get the name Acadia?" I glanced around and answered.


    "My mother left me on a doorstep with a note that said ''keep her safe, she is Acadia'' so that''s what they named me" There goes the gasp again, noticing it was mainly the older ones in the room, I look at her quizzically.


    Claudette stands a bit taller and maybe a bit more scared "A few of you may not understand the significance of this word or name in her case, But Acadia is part of premonition from the heir before J''havia, J''havias mother had a Prophetic Vision of Acadia being the destruction or savor of all magical being''s" Collective gasp go around the room including mine.


    Buford responds "I remember you telling me this story growing up, I didn''t think nothing of it, until now".


    Claudette still standing looks at me very carefully "Acadia, if you are the prophecy that she spoke of, I believe the oracle will let us know, and if you are, I call to the council, Heir or not, we should vote to keep you in our protection or as we would say our good influence until we know which you will turn out to be, then and only then will we take action" Freaking out a bit, my eyes getting bigger as I realize what she means by taking action!


    It''s not enough to think I might be an heir of something new and magical, I might be the doom of all of the people I might be born to protect. This is too much; this oracle lady needs to hurry up and just tell them I''m normal. Buford and Zaline are arguing with Claudette, as others are still looking at me, or joining in the argument as well, as I contemplate my next move.

 19 Chapter 18

    What do you say to the people that are telling you that you might end up evil or the heir that protects and helps all magical people, or both? Well as I stand and scream "STOP IT" it just flows out of my mouth before I finish thinking it, as everyone hushes and settles down around me, I stand there with the confidence of a new woman and tell them.


    "Listen, I may not know a lot about this magic life, or who my mother is, or if I''m either of those things that you think I might be, but I know I''m not evil. I also am a person, who has never had anyone but myself, and I will not let some council hold me prisoner while they decide if I''m evil or not. The oracle will come and let us know if your right or not, and if I''m the heir, I hope all of you will help me become the best heir I can be. If I am this prophet you speak of, then I will choose my own path and live as I please. If I am both, I have the confidence in my friends Zaline, Buford, and Remey to keep me grounded. If you do not agree with my decision, I will walk right now before any of us figure out anything"


    After a long silence, Buford nods in agreement at me "As Acadia has stated her wishes, we will vote, if you agree with her raise your hand" There are eleven people in the room including me, after a few seconds six the hands are raised, Claudette not one of them.


    "Then the council is upon agreement, we will stand by your decision Acadia" Buford says.


    Then he asked everyone to settle down as a knock on the door echoed through the room. The guards open the door to let the women from my visions In, with her youthful face and all-knowing eyes, the oracle has arrived, bringing my bad feeling back in with her.


    Everyone stands and slightly bows to her except me, I can''t stop staring between her and the door behind her. With a small smile, she walks towards me, Buford stands beside me "Thank you for coming upon our request, Acadia this is Janelle, Janelle this is Acadia" he introduces us.


    She nods her head and goes to reach for me as I back away, she just smiles and holds her hand out to me, this time without fear, I take it.


    The flash as we take each other''s hand in the room is slightly blinding to the group, gone as fast as it came, Janelle and I not noticing as we go somewhere else in our minds.


    The pain is searing through at first, but then turns tolerable this time, and instead of me seeing things, she is probing my head and soul. I feel it, every bit of the probing, I don''t see what she sees, but I have a weird feeling, one that somewhat feels my soul with answers to all my questions, a knowing feeling, one that I didn''t know I needed until now.


    With a gasp from both of us, the pain light pain gone as she lets go, she looks at me with a shocked face, her all-knowing eyes upon me, with fear and admiration.


    Then to answer everyone''s question, she bows down at my feet "My queen, my heir, Adeline, I pledge my alliance in your honor" is all she said.


    Everyone else in the room gathers themselves quickly, bowing down and saying the same to me. As I look down at them, knowing my real name now, Adeline,I know it''s true, I felt it, I now know I''m the heir, the one that will have to live up to my family''s legacy and protect these people and reunite everyone once again, to protect the innocent as well.

 20 Chapter 19

    As I accept my fate and my destiny, the only other question I have for Janelle "Am I the prophecy as well?"


    Everyone then stands as we wait for her answer, but before she could answer, I scream. I know it''s about to happen, I feel the danger like all the times before, the horrible part I have seen is here, and I have to warn them. "Quickly protect yourselves, danger is coming!"


    The room breaks out in a scatter of people preparing themselves for an unknown enemy, as Buford, Janelle, Zaline, and surprisingly Claudette stand in front of me to protect their heir, the noise of fighting outside the door and we are as prepared as we will get.


    Knowing my new ability to control other people''s magic and make them stronger, I don''t think Zaline''s will help in a fight, Janelle''s will not either, Buford''s fire definitely will, but I don''t know what his mother Claudette can do, I hope we don''t have to find out. The door burst open, and it was not our guards that enter, it was three of the soulless, mouths are sewn shut, sunken and pale faces, of the dead entering with him right behind.


    "Hello Adaline, I''ve been looking for you for a long time my dear..." Everyone is frozen still, the soulless necromancer staring at me, as everyone is staring at him.


    With the new woman confidence and a little more superior voice "What do you want?" I ask him.


    "I''ve come for you my dear girl, it''s been a long time since I''ve seen you, I''ve come to take you back with me"


    The others tense up at his words and Buford the protector comes out "You will not take our queen anywhere without a fight" spitting the hateful words at him.


    "If you wish, for I shall take my daughter wherever I please" I stood straight as a rod, the others turned between me and the necromancer with fear in their eyes, Buford''s terrified eyes never left mine.


    "What is the meaning of this? You are the man that has chased my mother and most likely killed her, causing me to be abandoned for my safety from YOU! If you were my father, why has she hidden me from you?"


    He smiles a sickening smile "that is a story for another time, my dear, now come before they have their wish".


    I don''t understand this, but I knew my mother didn''t want me around this man for a reason, and I damn sure wasn''t going to go with him voluntarily, so I shake my head no "I will not go with you, Fight if you must, but that will never happen, I am their new queen and will protect them to the best of my ability" is the last thing I said before everything went crazy.


    Flashes of light started going everywhere, people screaming, fire flying past people''s heads, and the noise was deafening. I still had my four new friends in front of me, remembering the dead men cannot die by their hands alone, I grab Buford nodding at him to aim at the men, as the pain started.


    I held my ground and aimed my thoughts at them, the pain suddenly subsided as I focused more, and became a silent hum in my body.


    Buford''s green fire hit the one closest to us, as he evaporated into dust, the necromancer seeing this, showed his first hint of fear through all of his arrogance. Then aiming at the next one, we missed the first shot as he ducked, and then he threw some kind of orange orb at us, hitting Buford in the left arm, barely missing his chest as he cried out in pain.


    This time focusing more, I grabbed onto Buford harder and aimed at him again, not missing this time, he evaporated as well, at the same time Buford fell over and blacked out from my surge of power.

 21 Chapter 20

    One last guy to take care of, in the chaos not noticing the necromancer backing closer to the door, there are a few people still standing and fighting, a few on the ground dead, and some injured, I step in front of Buford to protect his unconscious body, and grab onto his mother, praying she has some kind of power to help protect us.


    This time no pain, just the humming and a shocked face on Claudette at the sudden surge of power going through her and worry about Buford on the ground.


    Without thinking, I also grab Zaline to steady myself, that''s when the room suddenly slowed down, enough for me to gain more clarity and the new feeling of both powers mixing with each other in my mind.


    The next thing I know, Zaline''s eyes go in the back of her head as she chants something in Cajun French, a small wind wisping in front of her, as a ghost-like figure with shaggy grey hair, black face, and glowing yellow eyes appears, glaring right at the necromancer, holding him in place with some type of spell chanting.


    At the same time green fire piles in Claudette''s hands, not surprising me that Buford inherited the ability from his mother, we Take aim at the last guy, and without a beat, he is dust in the air. Still holding onto them, we look over at the necromancer held in the door by the ghost.


    He is looking at me with more fear now but does not stop his threats "You are my daughter, I will not leave you alone until you are with me, or I''m dead" he laughs the most horrendous laugh I''ve ever heard.


    He then whistles loudly, and the next thing you know, a huge gust of wind comes in the room with such force, it knocks us all on the ground, releasing my hands to catch my fall.


    The ghost is gone without my touch on Zaline, the necromancer free now, and noticing Janelle and Claudette knocked unconscious as well with Buford and everyone else in the room but me, Zaline, the necromancer, and the figure walking in behind him.


    I scream "Remey! Watch out" as I see its just him, scrambling to my feet trying my last effort to protect myself and my friends.


    He stops where he is and looks at the necromancer with a smile "Sir, shall we grab Acadia, I''m sorry I mean Adaline and go now before backup arrives" looking at him in disbelief.


    "Remey... You''re with him? You knew this whole time?" I had to ask.


    He looks at me "Yes, this is Isaac your father, he asked me to help guide you to go with us and tell him what was going on with you and your powers, what do you say love?" as he holds out his hands to me.


    Zaline in the background yelling trader, trouble and a lot of other words with colorful thought at him, stepping back further away from him, as I''m standing there stunned.


    Feeling betrayed, hurt, used and regretfully sad that it all wasn''t real with him, could it be if I went with him? Was it all just a way to get to me and help my so-called dad "Isaac"? Is he being forced to help him?


    I don''t have a choice at this moment, with tears in my eyes, sadness and hurt I couldn''t understand at the moment, the ground started to shake, as the pain of betrayal and confusion got worse, I never noticed I started levitating and glowing golden color, all I could see and feel was the sadness and hurt.


    I locked eyes with the terrified Remey, as him and Isaac were backing towards the door, and then the overwhelming feeling of anger hit me, now a few feet in the air, and bright yellow radiating from me, almost blinding them.


    "I am the heir, the one that will protect my people from evil, to keep the humans safe, and our secret safe. I AM ACADIA" I screamed in a voice I did not recognize as my own. Then the power threw itself out into the room, not a wind but faster, not lightening but brighter, not fire but just as painful, with all my anger fueling it. Then passing blackness again before I fully hit the ground.

 22 Chapter 21

    I faintly hear someone calling my name, but I''m in a fog, and can''t get out of it, I hear them, I feel them shaking me, but my mind is not ready to wake up.


    As my mind is processing what happened, I have a father and evil one that probably killed my mother. Remey used me to help my father, he called Isaac ''Sir'' like he was his leader or something, he has to be part of Merdique or was he being forced?


    My name is actually Adaline, and my mother is J''havia the once queen of all magic, now I''m to take the place of the queen as I was the heir. I have more than one unknown magical powers, and could still be the prophet of Acadia.


    Most of all, I''m not alone in this world anymore, I have friends and a whole community that will be here for and with me. I''ll never be alone again, but I still need to know what happened to my mother, if she is dead or not, and how she ever came to be with the horrible man Isaac.


    There goes someone calling my name again, I just need to get out of this fog. What seems like hours later, I finally come out of it.


    Opening my eyes and seeing the sky, I know we''re not in the meeting room anymore, with Zaline above me looking down with worry still calling my name.


    I croak out an ''I''m ok'' as her faces relaxes a bit, and I notice tears in her eyes as she looks around us. I sit up and see why she''s crying immediately, there are bodies of guards and some council members lying on the ground, all seem to be dead.


    As tears start rolling down my face as well, I frantically start looking around for Buford, then I see him carrying another body outside of the building. He then sees me looking at him and runs straight towards me, grabbing my face in his hands and checking me out for injuries, then just holds me, rocking back and forth repeating ''you''re ok, we''re ok''.


    No visions pop up and I''m glad at the moment, I hold onto Buford like my life depends on it, as I cry harder for the death and destruction all around me really hits. After a few minutes, I calm down enough to look up at Buford, as he helps me up to my feet, still holding onto me.


    We are looking at all the people around us, and I see my father''s body lying there, he''s dead. Not feeling the least bit sorry or hurt for him, then I start looking around for Remey''s body. I don''t see it anywhere "Buford, is this everyone from the building?"


    He looks at me with a sad look and shakes his head yes. "I don''t see Remey anywhere! He was down there when I..... I killed my father"


    Gripping my shoulder a bit tighter he responds "Zaline filled us in on what happened while you were passed out, you didn''t kill Isaac on purpose sweetheart. What happened to you was another ability we don''t understand as it''s a rare one, but we will all help you learn to control it. Now that you are confirmed to be the heir, and now our queen, we have a long road ahead of us, with all of us behind you every step of the way. As for Remey, I believe he escaped and we will find him and bring him to you for punishment, don''t worry" with a smile and those beautiful green eyes of his looking upon my face "I''m always here for you like I told you, I will always be here to protect you"


    With one last look at my new found friends and family, the ones that have survived. Buford''s mother Claudette, Janelle the Oracle, Zaline, Buford, some guards, and about four faces of the council I recognize from the room, it''s time to start my new journey and rightful place as their Queen. My new mission is to find my mother, find Remey and the truth, and reconcile the groups into one, doesn''t sound that hard, but deep down I know it will be a tough journey.

 23 Chapter 22

    It''s been almost two months since the disaster of the council meeting, death of my father Isaac, and the oracle confirming I''m the heir Adaline.


    The few people that have survived have spread the word that I have been found, also pledging loyalty to me. I insisted that I keep the name Acadia, that is the name I''ve known my whole life, and Adaline seems so unfamiliar to me, everyone agreed to my wishes.


    The word has spread so fast that they decided to have a party in my honor coming up this week, so the people can see me for themselves. I''m actually happy about this, I''ll do anything to take a break from all this training Buford and his mother Claudette has me doing every single day.


    Speaking of, here she comes now with bottles of water in hand "Buford really needs to update this cellar, it has a dungeon feel to it, and training in it makes me feel barbaric" she says as she tosses me water.


    "I agree, it''s hot and I''m not sure I won''t bring the whole house down if we keep it up" I laugh. She flashes a tiny stream of green fire at me, and I stop it with my newfound ability, it''s pretty great for protection, all I have to do is see it coming, then put up an invisible shield to deflect it.


    I''ve gotten pretty good at this one, not having to concentrate as hard anymore, but still do not like how I learned it the first time when she did something similar but bigger, I swear she was trying to kill me for real.


    "You are getting better at that. I believe that is all I have for today, we need to get ready for dinner, Kelvin and Zaline are joining us tonight" she says as we are thankfully done for the day. I am grateful she has decided to stay on and train me until the others arrive, but it seems it''s more for Buford than myself, she still gives me the cold shoulder without being disrespectful.


    Heading upstairs to my room, Buford telling me I will always have a place here, and seeing I don''t have my apartment anymore, I made this my new home. Taking a shower and choosing black shorts, a light blue top, with black sandals, I start on my hair. It''s so long I decided to just brush it out, blow dry it, and leave it down for the night, the blackness of it, bringing out my yellow eyes and light blue shirt.


    Gathering a breath and thanking the voodoo spirits that I can dress casually around them, I''m too sore to look regal, I head to join everyone for dinner.


    Zaline is already here, dressed in her usual fashion, floor-length day dress with lots of patterns, talking with Buford. It never gets easy to look at that man without blushing, he''s dressed casually as well in blue jeans and a black t-shirt, that reminds me of those delicious muscle''s underneath.


    Even though I''ve gotten close enough to touch him that way the one time we kissed, I haven''t forgotten how they felt, or his lips.


    "Good afternoon" I say as I walk towards the two, Zaline smiles and Buford looks like he always does since that day he found out I was the heir, with nothing but loyalty, no trace of that stolen moment that seemed forever ago.


    Buford replies first "Good afternoon Acadia, dinner will be served soon, we are just waiting on Kelvin to arrive" at the mention of his name.


    Zaline perks up just a bit "Oh, I wasn''t aware he will be joining us for dinner". Smiling at her, only something her best friend would notice she has a thing for Kelvin, even though they have known each other for a long time, they were never in the same circles until recently.

 24 Chapter 23

    Dinner was eventful only in stolen glances from Zaline to Kelvin, Claudette speaking of everything and nothing, and Buford in his ever so moody silence. We discussed the upcoming party or what they would like to call a ball, and the people that are all coming to meet me.


    After dinner I was so tired and sore, I decided to tell everyone goodnight, retiring to my room and shedding all my clothes, and climbing in bed. Not having any visions, just regular nightmares lately, I''ve been working on touching Claudette only and controlling my visions when I only want to see them, but in my sleep, I cannot control anything.


    I always go back to my mother running scared, then my father dying, ending with Remey betraying me, then only to calm down and see Buford''s handsome green eyes before I wake.


    Still use to waking up early, even though I don''t work anymore, I still have training to do, getting dressed in blue jeans, and a tank top, and tying my hair into pigtails, it''s time to get started.


    After I ate a quick breakfast and grabbing a bottle of water, I ran into Buford "Oh, Good morning, I''m almost ready for training if you are" I said then noticed he''s in his slacks and button-up shirt with a tie.


    "Good morning Acadia, I will not be training with you today, mother and I have some planning to do for the ball, but we have asked Kelvin to stand in" he responded, without ever really looking at me, he walked away.


    I wish I knew why he was giving me the cold shoulder; we have barely said any words to each other since the night we kissed, and now that Remey is gone, I don''t see what I did wrong. Claudette comes in and says goodbye as they both leave, now I''m to wait on Kelvin.


    I''ve never trained with him before, and I''m curious what his power is, hoping it''s not something I can''t deflect. Time to find out as I hear the doorbell, and open to door to see him dressed in a similar fashion like me, wow, I''ve never seen him out of a suite before, and I see why Zaline is so shy around him.


    Were in the basement going over what training I have already done, I told him about how I can control my visions with touch, the deflect of powers I learned, the hand to hand fighting, and how I learned to enhance other''s abilities without such force unless needed.


    "Who knew you would be the highest honored Heir when you started working with us a year ago? It all seems so surreal you know, I never thought we would find one of you" he looks at me.


    "Right!" I snort "I never thought any of this was real, but here we are, and you''re helping to teach your Queen how to fight and protect you" smiling at him.


    "Your right and I''m absolutely honored to be a part of this, and I hope you don''t think of me as being too forward, but I hope we can be friends as well, especially after what I am here to do today" What does that mean, ugh.


    "Um sure, of course, we can be friends, the more the merr....."


    I didn''t get to finish my sentence, everything happened so fast, one minute there was just him, then there were nine more of him, all looking at me! They all started talking at once, saying the deaths at the meeting were all my fault, saying no one loves me, saying that Remey betrayed me, I''m just like my father, and I will never be like my mother.


    Hearing all these things makes me overwhelmingly upset, sad, and very angry. That''s when I feel it again, my body starting to levitate, the hum of power flowing through it, yellow light radiating from my body, and suddenly I see clearer this time. All of the clones of Kelvin disappeared into thin air, as he slowly walks towards me, hands in front of him trying to calm me.


    "Now listen to me Acadia, those clones were not real, just projections. I need you to stay calm or we could both die in here. The feeling you have now, hold onto it and familiarize yourself with it" I am still angry but starting to see what was going on, he did it on purpose to bring out my worst power so far, I calm down just enough to feel what I was doing.

 25 Chapter 24

    After a few more hours of training, we decide its almost dinner time and should call it quits while one of us is still alive. After grabbing a shower and changing, him doing the same in the other guest room, we head into the living room to chill out.


    "That is some power you have Acadia" I smirk at him.


    "Yeah, your lucky I didn''t kill you, but I know you were pissing me off on purpose to bring it out, so I can learn to control it" as we sit on the couch together.


    "So, does this mean we can''t be friends" he laughs and I punch his shoulder.


    "Yes, we can be friends if you promise not to be mean to me again, or I will sick Zaline on you next time" at the mention of my best friend''s name, I believe I saw a quick blush rise on his cheeks.


    "Whatever you say my queen" as we start laughing the front door opens, with Buford and his mother coming in.


    With an almost relieved look at us, he says "I''m assuming everything went well today, seeing as your alive Kelvin" He looks around at the house "and my house is still intact" Kelvin and myself bust out in even louder laughter.


    "What is so funny?" he asked us, we both reply at the same time "Nothing" with the last chuckle.


    Claudette eyed us curiously and then went on "Ok, now that we are over that, everything is settled for the ball, except dress shopping, which Buford will take you, as I have other things to attend to"


    I look at her "Oh and we will not have training for the next few days as you need to get ready to receive your crown" Oh shit, now there''s a crown, and I''m assuming I need a gown to match it.


    The next day I get up early and call Zaline to come shopping with us, I''ll need a girl to help on all this fancy-dress stuff, as I never had anything expensive in my life, dressed or acted fancy either. She tells me she will have to meet me after lunch, she has to cover the store until then.


    This will be the first time that I have to spend time with Buford alone in a long time, and well I''m nervous. Making sure my hair is straight, and putting on some eyeliner, I look at myself in the mirror.


    I''m still slender but my muscles are more tone now, seeing my hair has grown further than my waist, my eyes filled with hope and anxiety, I''m ready for today.


    Buford is downstairs waiting for me, as we both head out on foot, no sense in driving when it''s so close to downtown. "So, um what kind of dress do I need to be looking for?" I ask him.


    "It will be a formal ball, so being the guest of honor and our queen, you will need something that stands out" he says in a clipped tone. I''m so over his distant attitude and about to ask him about it, but we came upon our first shop.


    We continue on to two other shops in silence, not finding anything, and it''s almost time for lunch and Zaline to meet up with us. We stop at a little sandwich shop and take our meals outside, eating still in silence.


    That''s it, I''ve had enough "What is wrong with you?"


    He looks up quizzically "What do you mean? Nothing is wrong with me".


    Glaring a hole where his brain should be "You have been distant ever since we kissed and had that little fight, but since the meeting, you barely speak to me! Did I do something that I''m not aware of?"


    He takes a long breath "I apologize, you turned me down that night for Remey with understanding, I sprung it on you. I shouldn''t have done that; things shouldn''t have gotten that far" I look at him with a bit of shock.


    "Shouldn''t have gone that far? Are you telling me that I imagined your feelings for me?"


    He then stared at me with a masked face "This is something we shouldn''t discuss right now, there are still a lot of things for you to learn as queen, and whatever I was feeling is irrelevant at the moment, please drop this" with one last sigh from him. It seems this discussion is over, for now.


    Thanking the voodoo spirits that Zaline shows up, it''s time for more shopping. I tell Buford that we will take it from here, and he is more than welcome to leave, he doesn''t hesitate to take the offer, and I''m silently glad he did.

 26 Chapter 25

    I decided to sleep in, seeing as I had no training and not wanting to run into Buford. One more day until the ball, ugh, do I need a date? Asking Claudette this, she simply responds, as long as they are part of our community, meaning no humans. Well, that''s great, I don''t know anyone single beside Buford and Kelvin, now wouldn''t that be awkward.


    Oh well, I guess I''ll go alone, it would be better anyhow seeing as I don''t have any luck with guys. Tonight is our last dinner together with his mother, and Buford''s dad is coming into town tonight with Zaline''s parents.


    It''s been decided that we will need to pick some more people to put on the council, as most didn''t survive. I have final decision once the elders propose the picks for it, and it''s my duty to name them at the ball as part of my role as queen, and unfortunately, I need to look a little more formal for this dinner.


    As I slip on my black heels, matched with my knee-length white dress, and black shawl to go over it, a few bits of jewelry, and my hair pinned to the side, it''s time to go meet everyone.


    One thing I''ve learned about this magic community is the fact that we do not really go out to eat, we always stay in, I''m assuming so we can talk freely, and the second is that even though we do stay in, we still dress for the occasion.


    Looking over the group that is slightly bowing to me, some faces I know, some I do not, everyone is dressed very formally. It takes a minute to get used to, and after a few seconds, the introductions begin. Zaline comes up first with her parents in tow, all slightly bowing again in front of me, which is another custom I must get used to.


    "Acadia, this is my mother Wren, and my father Zane, and this is our new queen Acadia" I shake both of their hands.


    "It''s a pleasure to finally meet you, I''ve heard so much about you" and then Buford steps up with his parents, again slightly bowing, wow he''s being so formal, ugh.


    "Acadia, you already know my mother Claudette, and this is my father Orson" I smile and tell him it''s nice to meet him as well.


    We all start to settle at the table with me at one end and Buford at the other, the seats to our right and left with the others and noticed that one chair was empty.


    "Is Kelvin not coming?"


    Oran speaks this time "Queen, I do apologize, I sent him on a mission of sorts to gather a present, I am sure he will not be long" I bristle a little at being called queen so much


    "That is ok, and please, all of you call me Acadia, unless it''s for a meeting or something, we are just having dinner together" I kind of laugh.


    Everyone seemed to take this and lighten their spirits. The discussion continues with everyone about how they have been doing and normal life, as we eat dinner. It wasn''t long after we started that Kelvin joined us with an apology, I told him it''s ok and beckoned him to sit beside Zaline.


    To see the two of them blush while he sat down, well that''s something for tomorrow''s talk during girl''s day, when we get our hair and finalize our looks for the ball, I can''t wait. It seems now it is time for dessert, and onto the business of choosing council members.

 27 Chapter 26

    "So Zaline, how are things going with what''s his name? I''m sorry I haven''t been around as much with everything going on" she looks at me out of the corner of her eye, with the hairstylist keeping her head still.


    "We broke up two weeks ago, I told you that" as she says with a frown, and leaving me the opening I wanted "Oh that''s right, I guess you will have to see if Kelvin will go to the ball with you" smiling knowing she is cursing me inside her head.


    Claudette speaks up "Oh that would be fantastic Zaline, you must make this happen, my nephew would be thrilled, and definitely needs a break from all that work" she truly smiles since the first time I''ve met her.


    "I don''t have his number, and its possibly too late as the ball is tonight" I smile knowing she''s trying to get out of it "It''s done, he will meet us at the house at seven" Claudette pipes up.


    Zaline and I look shocked "What? I had his number" she says. She is smiling, I''m giggling now, and Zaline is as red as she can get "Um, thank you" well at least one of us will have a date.


    We will all be riding in separate cars, Wren and Zane with Zaline in the first car, Claudette and Orson in the second car, and Buford, Kelvin and myself in the last car. I''ll be sitting in the back by myself, going over my outfit to make sure I''m presentable, all the guys are in tuxes with bow ties, the other ladies in cocktail dresses of different colors.


    For myself, I chose a flowing floor-length red cocktail dress, that collects at the top on my left shoulder, with a few swirling designs on the top part. I had my hair styled in curls on the right side of my dress to counter the strap on my left, its curls flowing down to my waist with some little red roses tucked in to make them pop, I felt absolutely beautiful.


    As I stepped out of the room to join the others, I had some oohh and awws but only one person couldn''t keep his eyes off of me, which makes me feel even more beautiful and yet so confused. Kelvin clearing his throat tells us it''s time to go, as we gather up our coats and clutches, we head out to the ball.


    The ride is mainly quit with the occasional question from me as to where we are going, how many people will be there, and most of all how Kelvin likes Zaline''s dress "She looks amazing, I can''t believe she wanted to go to the ball with me" he looks back excitingly.


    "Of course she would, your smart, successful, and not that bad to look at" I giggle.


    That got me a look from Buford in the rearview mirror "I can say the same for her, I just never knew she was interested in me as well" he smiled.


    "She never knew you were interested either, you should tell her how you feel, talking honestly about your feelings is a great trait in a person" with a pointed look at Buford.


    The silence fell once again in the vehicle, hoping we would be arriving soon. I''m told it will be at an old plantation house, another one the council owns, well technically I own now, but it''s big enough to house over six hundred people.


    That''s not nearly enough room for the number of people that will want to come, but the remaining council has sent out invitations to the nearby people, promising to be able to meet the new queen another day to the others.

 28 Chapter 27

    We are here, and oh my goodness, it''s beautiful! The two-story plantation house, has pillars, wrap-around porch, gated yard, and someone put lights in the trees surrounding it, it''s absolutely breathtaking. I''m told to wait in the car for a moment as we stop in front of the steps, I see people lined up the steps, spilling out of the door, and many more beyond that.


    Everyone from the other cars is escorted to the tops of the steps by the husbands and dates, that leaves me, and Buford as he opens my door, hand out. I take his hand and step out, looking him straight in his eyes, looking for something other than the coldness "I didn''t get a chance to tell you, but you look like the queen you are, stunning"


    He then loops my arm in his and begins walking me up to the door "You look wonderful yourself" I say before getting distracted by all the cheers, waves, and applauds that are meant for me.


    Smiling, and waving at everyone I can, gripping Buford''s arm a little tighter as we keep going inside, finally, he brings me to the ballroom, with two tables on each side of a huge throne made of black marble stone up on a platform.


    Buford guides me to stand on the platform in front of the gleaming thrown, while we wait for the others to join in the room. Claudette and Zaline join us up front as the only other remaining council members until the announcement. He looks at me with a tiny smile, gesturing it is time for introductions, my speech and the announcement, I shakily smile back to him.


    "Ladies and gentlemen, we have waited over fifteen years to find our queen J''havia and her heir Adaline, as you see here before you today, we have found the heir!" everyone shouts excitedly. He then bows and gestures for me to step forward, as I do, its silent again


    "Thank you, everyone, I do implore you all to call me Acadia, that is the name I''ve grown up with and choose to continue. As you know I have recently learned about me being the heir, I have been working every day to become the very best heir I can be. Now understanding my role of your soon to be queen, I will work hard to protect our secret, keep humans safe, and reunite us all once again!" Everyone starts cheering.


    The people silence again as someone starts playing low classical music, and I see the crowd part for Oran to come through, holding the most exquisite jeweled crown in front of him. He is in front of me now, slightly bowing, I remember Claudette telling me to lean down gracefully so he can put the crown on my head, and I do.


    Gracefully standing back up, smiling at Oran, and then facing the crowd with the confidence of a new queen, everyone is chanting "Queen Acadia, Queen Acadia".


    I''m being led by Oran to my throne, as I take a seat, the crowd is still going. Finally, after a few moments, it''s time to choose the council. "As your new queen, my first two acts will be to implore you all to help find out what happened to my mother, I know many of you have tried, but I ask for you all to continue in pursuing this with me. The second is to name the new council members that will continue to help me serve you, we have Claudette, Buford, and Zaline already here, when I call your name, please stand beside them until the council is full"


    The room is deadly silent as they await the names "The names are Orson Nolan, Ferris Almahd, Sylar Collins, Kelvin Murphy, Janelle the oracle, Esma May, and Zowie Johnson" as the new council stands and are cheered for, I stand with one last thing "Are we ready to celebrate with the ball now?" with a laugh.

 29 Chapter 28

    The ball was in full swing, with lots of dancing, laughing, and surprisingly some updated music. I was still stuck on the throne as I''ve shaken hands with so many people and listening to all of them pledge their loyalty to me, it was a little overwhelming, but worth seeing the faces of the ones I''m going to protect.


    As the line has dwindled down to the last few people, the council is allowed to go join the dancing. I decided I needed to get some air, walking to the nearest balcony I saw, closing the doors behind me. Walking out to the ledge and leaning my elbows on it, I take a huge breath, I can still hear the music, but not as loud, and I take my few seconds of solitude for granted until I hear a throat clear.


    I didn''t notice him in the corner, seeming to need air himself "It''s a beautiful night" Buford said.


    Deciding not to be sarcastic "Yes, it is, I needed to get some air, it''s tough being in there with so many new faces and new traditions to me, even though I''m not exactly alone, it feels like I was up there, I guess I should be used to it"


    Suddenly I''m being spun around, and landed into his arms. He is looking down at me with a serious look, oh why does he have to be so sexy. "I told you, I will always be here for you, and I will always be there to protect you" I look at him for a few seconds, then following my feelings, I kiss him.


    Oh, how I missed his lips, I put my hand on the back of his head, he wraps his hand around my waist and neck, as the kiss deepens. Pouring my feelings into the kiss, hoping he understands them, and hoping he feels the same, we kiss deeper.


    Then he untangles himself suddenly from me, both of us breathing heavy, as he starts pacing on the balcony "I can''t do this, I promised it wouldn''t happen again, what was I thinking?" talking to himself.


    "I started it, it''s ok, I know you promised but it''s ok with me" I watch him pace.


    "No, it''s not Acadia, I promised myself, and I promised other people, you don''t understand, you don''t understand any of it" he says louder


    "Then help me understand, who else did you promise? Was it your mother? I know she doesn''t exactly like me, but I just don''t understand, you have feelings for me, I have feelings for you, why can''t it just be simple" I yell at him.


    He stops pacing, and with one last sorrowful look at me, he leaves with the last words "You just don''t understand".


    That arrogant, secretive, oh so sexy, but rude and intolerable man! No, I don''t understand why he just won''t love me back, what is so wrong with me? Love... I can''t be in love with him, can I? No matter how much I deny it, I believe it''s true, I know it is. With our nightly dinners, silly conversations, training, and everything in between, I fell for him along the way, Damn me.


    Standing up straight, putting my pride and hurt away, I walk back into the ball determined to have a good night despite what happened with Buford. A few glasses of wine, plenty of dancing, conversations with strangers, and my best friend enjoying herself as well with Kelvin, it seems like tonight was mainly a success, not noticing the brooding Buford in the corner watching me the whole time.

 30 Chapter 29

    It has been two weeks since the ball, and my days are exhaustingly full. Training early in the morning, then meetings, updates, and decisions until afternoon, then nightly dinners with the council. Buford has not lost that brooding mood he has been in, barley speaking to me unless its official, ugh he frustrates me so much.


    On a good note, Zaline and Kelvin seem to be getting cozier, she told me he asked her out on a date, and he seems to be amazing to her, so if she''s happy, I''m happy.


    The newer council members are nice and very insightful as far as I can tell, Sylar has actually been helping me with some training, he also has the precognition power. It seems he cannot get rid of the night visions, but taught me how to mentally block and unblock with the visions upon contact of someone else, I''m very glad we chose him.


    The others have wonderful abilities as well, Orson (Buford''s dad) is a healer, Zowie has fertility magic (Able to make plants, and other things fertile), Esma has Enchantment power, and Ferris has the ability to throw ice.


    All of them are pretty amazing to watch. Finding out later when Kelvin made me think there was more than one of him, his ability was called glamouring.


    We are all gathered in my new office after dinner, which is basically the second living room area in the house, everyone is chatting away when the butler comes up to me with an envelope.


    "What is this?"


    The butler looks at me and says "It was left on the door, someone knocked and before I could open it, they were gone with this pinned to the door mam" everyone in the room silent now.


    "Let me open it, my queen, it may be dangerous" Sylar pipes up. I look around the room, seeing everyone''s worried eyes, I hand it to him.


    After opening it, and only a letter with no danger there "Would you like me to read it?" Shaking my head no, as it was addressed to me, he hands the letter over.


    Slowly reading over the letter, feeling the intense stares and silence in the room, I reread it just in case I''m actually reading it right. Finally deciding to break the silence


    "Not going into details, the main part of it states there is information regarding my mother, and I alone must meet them to find out" and then the room erupts into arguments.


    "You can''t" "That is crazy" "We will send guards" "You''re not going alone" "What if they are lying" "What if it''s Merdique" ¡­..."I will never let you go into danger alone" was the only one to stick out to me the most, as I look at Buford.


    Holding my hand up for silence, they comply with angry faces "I understand your arguments, I understand this may be a trap, and that its unwise of me to do so, but it''s my decision, and I WILL go alone" Looking pointedly at him.


    "Thanks to all of your training, I am very capable of doing this on my own, and I will allow some of you to stay a few blocks away from me for a safety net if that eases your worries" a few faces relax at this, but not the one I was mainly speaking to, his stone face staring at me with disagreement.


    They eventually come around and we form a plan, not giving them my exact meeting spot but close enough for them to be nearby, we have some guards and council stationed all around me just in case. I tell everyone goodnight and will see them tomorrow. I go to my room without a glance at Mr. Moody, and his glares.


    I''m not in the mood to deal with him, he doesn''t make any of this easier on me by far. The news of my mother making my spirit lighter, I go to bed and dream of her face.

 31 Chapter 30

    Ten minutes more of a walk, and I''ll be at the meeting spot, with my nerves lit up but no sense of danger. The council tried to talk me out of it again, but I refused like before, I don''t want to miss the chance to know anything about my mother, even if it is a trap. Buford brought me to the side that afternoon.


    "I know you''re mad at me, but let me go with you, just to make sure you are ok" ugh and of course I told him no as well if he wants to be distant, I damn sure will let him know what he is missing.


    The tiny but of fear in my stomach, I don''t know who I will be meeting, but I hope they actually know something. Walking into a hole in the wall bar downtown, I seek out a table in the back to sit at, a waitress comes by asking if I want a drink, I order a soda. Still not old enough to drink in the human world, I don''t want to push my luck and get anything to calm my nerves.


    They know who I am, and should approach me at any moment, I text Zaline that I made it to the spot and am waiting for whoever, she responds ''Be careful, we have your back'' oh I''m so happy to have her as a best friend.


    I start humming along to the music, and watching a few couples dancing, it seems like I''ve been here for hours, even though it''s only been thirty minutes. The chairs beside me creaks, and I jump, what the hell!!


    Standing up and getting in a defensive stance, I hiss "What the hell are you doing here Remey?" he holds his hands out.


    "Please Acadia, just sit and talk with me for a moment, I mean you no harm" he slowly sits in his chair.


    "I will only listen for a minute, if this has nothing to do with my mother, I walk, if you try to harm me, the others are just outside" as I sit opposite of him.


    "We both know they are not outside, I checked before I came in, with a price on my head I''m sure, I had to be careful" he winks at me.


    "You disgust me, your lying and betrayal. I don''t have time for your flirtation, tell me about my mother" I hiss again.


    "Shah I told you, I mean you no harm, yes I was working with your father, but that''s before I got to know you, by then it was too late, he would have killed me" I''m still glaring at him.


    "So what does that mean, that it was actually real between us" I laugh sarcastically


    "Yes shah, it was real for me".


    "Say I was to believe you, why didn''t you just kill him yourself?" looking him straight in the eyes.


    "I''m not strong enough, he was an elder, and he had an army of the dead with him at all times, that''s why I brought him to you, I knew you could kill him, hell you almost killed me, if I wouldn''t have escaped in time"


    I look at him with a little more understanding but not enough to believe him "Tell me about my mother".


    He looks at me with a defeated sigh "Your father told me about the day you were hidden from him, he told me that your mother wanted peace, and he wanted to rule the world. After she discovered what his plan was, that he wanted to raise you to do his evil bidding with your power stronger than his, she ran away and hid you. After she collapsed a wall on them, he lost track of her for a bit, but he caught up to her, you were nowhere in sight. All he said after that was that she got what was coming to her" I stand up, thank him, and walk away without another look backward.


    The only thing I heard before I walked out was "It was real Acadia, I miss y....."

 32 Chapter 31

    How dare him! He thinks after everything he''s done, that I can just walk back into his arms. Who does Remey think he is, hell who does Buford think he is by rejecting me all the time, maybe I just need to move on from both of the arrogant guys, as I said before, I have the worst luck with men.


    After a few days of sulking, and being in my head, I decided to take a break from my duties for the day and go searching for answers about my mother myself. As I''m heading out the door, Buford stops me "Where are you going?"


    Without turning around, I tell him "I''m going out, by MYSELF" and walk out the door. I heard him scrambling and yelling my name to wait, I''m sure he wanted someone to come with me since they haven''t let me out of their sights since I''ve become the Queen.


    I had already called an Uber this morning, and thank the voodoo spirits they were already here, so I climb in the car before anyone can try to join me, giving the driver directions, I sit back and wonder how do I find out about my mother, and who can I trust.


    Twenty minutes later, the driver dropped me off at a little voodoo shop on the outskirts of a town called ''Spirits'' which doubles as a bar. Looking a little out of place with my long hair in a high ponytail, black pants and white blouse paired with my heels, I look around at the patrons dressed casually.


    I''ve heard some of the elder''s talk of this place in some of the meetings, so I decided to start here, sitting at the bar, an adorable pixie-like redhead walks up with a smile "You look like you need a break, what can I get for you?"


    I smile back at her "Just a soda, for now, I''m actually looking for someone or maybe just information" the redhead hands me a coke.


    "Well I can try to help you, or maybe my grandmother, she is in the shop" remembering I need to be careful what I say, and that this happened years ago, I decided to go to her grandmother first.


    Walking into the shop part, the smells being like my best friends'' shop, it makes me feel comfortable. I see the older woman in a chair by the checkout counter and walk over to her "Excuse me, mam, I''m looking for some information, maybe you can help me out" the old woman looks up and me, and an ''O'' shape forms on her face.


    "Yes, my queen, anything for you" she says and starts to stand, I put my hand on her shoulder.


    "Please, you don''t have to get up, I can sit beside you. How did you know who I was?".


    The older woman smiles "You are the lost heir that came back to us, all of the magic community knows who you are, and look forward to having peace again. My name is Teressa, and I can only answer what you seek, give me your hand" I smile.


    "Yes Ms. Teressa, please call me Acadia, warning though when I give you my hand, I may make your power go out of control or have a vision of you and death" she smiles and nods, then I give her my hand. Feeling her power course through me, and her tugging at my memory''s and questions, thanking the fact that I learned how to control my abilities better, I don''t want anything to happen to her.


    No visions, no loss of control on my part, and all seems to go well until she releases my hand. "My dear, you seek to find your mother! From what I see in your memories, this will not be the easiest journey for you, you may not like the answers. That is not the only thing that is bothering you, your love is split, and you don''t know who is better for you. These I cannot answer, I can only give you my memories of your mother, and advice on the other" she says with a frown on her face.


    She goes on to tell me about when my mother was queen, how she ran things, how she was amazing with everyone, fair, beautiful, and powerful she was. Then leaves me with a riddle to decipher on my own about my love life.

 33 Chapter 32

    Calling my Uber again, I take off and decide to go back to the last place my mother was seen, my old orphanage and walk around. It takes me hours of walking around until I finally come to a building that looks familiar, then another, it looks like I''m backtracking from where we were running from.


    Going back in my memories and night terrors, I follow the trail until I come to an abandoned two-story house.


    Looking around I see the streets are dead as this is not a busy area, its residential, and many houses seem like they are for sale. Looking at the house, I know this is where I grew up with my mother, I feel it.


    The house is still intact, the windows are not broken or anything, it seems to have a mystical area around it. I walk to the front door, and I touch it, it''s locked, rubbing my hand down the door in defeat, I hear a click.


    Did the door just open? Yes, it did, weird must be magically activated. I carefully walk in, the door shuts behind me making me jump. My nerves are on end, and I stay at a fighting stance looking around.


    Wow, it looks just like someone was here an hour ago inside, the place is maybe a little dusty but all the furniture and everything is still in place, like we just up and disappeared. Flipping the light switch, nothing happens, then I remember the door and how it was magic. I flick my magic at the lights, and I''ll be damned, they turned on.


    Looking around the house still, I see toys, pictures of me as a baby, some of my mother, and thank goodness I don''t see any of my father. It seems he may have not been living here the last bit before everything happened, looking in her room, I see no man''s items or clothes.


    I go to my old room and see my dolls, and childish items, finally taking a toll on my emotions, I start crying. This house, losing my mother and father, not having anyone left but my new family, and taking over as queen, it all hit me at once. The next thing I know, I feel my magic growing inside of me violently, mixed with my feelings, lights are flickering, and the house begins to shake.


    I''m losing control and at this moment, I don''t care, it hurts to bad. Something falls beside me, and I glance at it as I''m still struggling, to see one of my old teddy bears with a paper spilling out of the back of it. I start to calm down as my curiosity gets the best of me, now just lights flickering in the background, I grab the paper. It''s a note...


    ''Dear Acadia, if you''re reading this, that means you came back like the vision. It''s your younger self-writing, and yes, you''ve had visions at a young age, mother helped me understand them, even helped me write this letter, as I knew I would come back looking for her in the future. The rest of the note will be from mother, I''m still too young to see anymore after this letter'' written in children''s handwriting, then the rest is written neatly.


    ''Acadia, this is your mother, first I want to tell you that I understand this is hard to read, and your younger self had a hard time telling me, well that I will be gone for some reason, and I have come to terms with it, but I want you to know that I love you, always have and always will! I may not know the future but I can help you with the past as much as I can, I know I would not willing leave you, so something bad must have happened. After you told me, I confided in a good friend that has always been by my side, and we moved here to this safe house as a precaution, only you, her and I know about this place. By now, you are most likely the new queen, and I''m very proud of you, just make sure you use your magic for good and be the wonderful person I know you can be, I believed you would always be a better queen than me, and I''ll always be with you in spirit, no matter what. Go find Rose, she lives an hour away from here, she will help you with answers.''

 34 Chapter 33

    By the time I stopped crying and calming down, I was exhausted and decided to curl on my mother''s bed and go to sleep after sending a text to Zaline to let her know I was ok.


    It was daylight when I woke up to a loud banging on the front door, wiping my swollen eyes, and patting my hair down I walk downstairs "Who is it?" no one knows where I am, who could it be, and oh dang I didn''t lock the door.


    "It''s Buford, is that you Acadia?" blowing a frustrated breath at his voice, I start to walk to the kitchen for something to drink and this headache.


    "Since you found me, open the door yourself, Its unlocked" I huff.


    A loud zap noise and a loud yelp from outside the door had me pause, what was that? "Acadia, that is not funny" then the noise happened again. I walk to the door and open it to his angry face, holding his hand like it was hurt.


    "What''s wrong with you?" he looks at me quizzically.


    "What do you mean? I tried to open the door as you said and it zapped me, why did you do that?" I looked back at him with confusion as I walked outside and shut the door.


    "Let me see something" I touched the door and it opened for me just fine, smirking at him, I closed it again.


    "Now you try it" I gestured to him, and I put my hands up as he gave me a pointed look.


    "I didn''t zap you" I said. Buford goes to open the door and it zapped him again.


    "What the heck is going on ugh" he says. I open the door again with no problem and tell him to come in behind me, headed back for the kitchen.


    "I figured it was magic when I opened it the first time, I guess it''s just for me"


    His fuming face still not going away "What do you think you''re doing? Running away like that with no protection, no one knowing where you were, you could''ve been hurt or worse!" he is pacing back and forth mumbling under his breath, then it seemed he finally looked around.


    "Wait where are we exactly? I had a tracker trace you to this block, but I''ve never been here before" after hearing this, I tried to keep my cool, I really did, but after how he has been toward me, I can''t believe he would track me like that.


    "That''s its Buford! Its none of your business where we are, especially after you couldn''t give me the privacy enough to get away from you for one day, you had to go and track me down! The way you are hot and cold towards me frustrates the crap out of me, and I needed answers without worrying about if you love me back or not!"


    I''m pacing in the kitchen now "and I am a grown woman with more skills to protect myself than you, so who do you think you are..." I''m stopped mid-sentence when a very passionate kiss touches my lips, it catches me off guard and I stumble back a bit into the counter.


    We both pull back and look at each other, Buford''s green eyes seeming to search my eyes for honesty, as I realized I said I loved him out loud, and dang it, I really do love him.


    He pulls away from me and turns his back to me "This is not the time for this, I seem to always be apologizing, the time is never right though"


    "I know I''ve asked you to trust me before, but I really wish you would just give me some time, I have to explain something to you, just not right now, we have other things to worry about" he turns and looks at me, and I''ve heard this before.


    It still hurts to hear it, and with a tear welling up in my eye, I tell him "Your right, we have other things to worry about besides my feelings" he winced "Send the council here, and I also need to have this place cleaned, and my old room set up for me now, nothing else is to be touched" I said with no emotion, he wants a queen with no feelings he will get one toward him.


    "Oh and I need food here as well, I will be traveling in a few days, so I don''t need much. Oh and Buford.." He looks at me with a saddened expression.


    "Yes, my queen" he responds.


    "I don''t want you to ever touch me again without my permission, and honestly unless its business, I think it''s best if we don''t talk anymore. Thank you for the place to stay, but this is my old house that I discovered, I will stay here for now on. You can go now" With one last pleading look, he nods and walks out with his head hanging lower than he arrived.

 35 Chapter 34

    It''s been a few days since I and Buford fought, Zaline questioned me saying something was off about us, and I told her I was fine and it''s not worth talking about anymore.


    The council had sent over a cleaning crew to clean and dust the house, I have to let everyone in or they will get shocked. All of my things from Buford''s house were brought over, and my old bedroom here was packed up and put in the attic, repainted, and new furniture for me was put in.


    We also decided to turn the dining room into our new meeting spot, we added some chairs and two desks, making it a little more comfortable for everyone.


    I called a council meeting and I explained to them about my journey that day, and how I found the note, I let them all read it for themselves, with strict instructions that no one outside of this room knows about my new house.


    They all agreed I should seek out Rose and get more answers, and I should bring only two people with me, Buford did not volunteer this time, so after a discussion, we decided to take his mother Claudette and Kelvin with me the next day.


    We also discussed the tense subject of me maybe being the prophecy Acadia again, I was asked to bring this up to rose, and I agreed. I found myself being precise and emotionless with everyone, and I hated it, I''m still hurt but also determined to find out about my mother.


    The next day I get dressed in one of my new outfits as queen, donning a light purple ankle-length dress, with some silver bands, and a necklace with the queen symbol on it, like that, seems more fitting than wearing a crown everywhere.


    Claudette, Kelvin and I loaded into the car, with me in the back, heading down the bayou, the letter said she lived an hour away, and we had some scouts ahead of time look for her and know where she is now.


    We sit in silence at first, then they start chatting about random things, every once in awhile they try to include me, but I say short answers and stay quiet. I am nervous and excited to see this woman, hoping she has all my answers, and hoping just maybe my mother is alive and in hiding.


    We arrived at a tiny house that was so old, I thought it might fall down at any moment, is this where Rose lives? Kelvin opened my door for me while Claudette went to the door to knock, us coming up behind her.


    The door opened and an older smaller lady answered "Hello may I help you?" and I spoke up.


    "Yes my mother sent me here, are you Rose?" with that the women looked at me in the back, and I moved forward, she just kind of stood there for a second and looked around frantically.


    "Yes come in, hurry" and we were ushered into the house, which looked amazing compared to the outside, it was clean, full of updated furniture.


    She motioned towards the couches and we sat down, she looked at me up and down, then at the others "You look just like your mother" she said to me as she sat down, and flicked her fingers, four teacups appeared in front of us all, politely taking one and sipping, she looked surprised at me


    "So you are aware of your magic, good this will make things easier. I am assuming these are council members with you" I nod my head.


    "Yes they are, this is Kelvin and Claudette. I was crowned not too long ago, and have been working on my magic powers, but you should know the reason I am here" she smiled a sad smile.


    "You found the house" and I nodded my head again "My dear, your mother was a very strong woman, a great queen, and happened to fall into the wrong kind of love, I can answer any questions you may have to my knowledge"


    "Do you know if she is alive?" was my first question


    "No, my dear, she is not. I helped her escape and hide you, and then your father caught up to her. He tortured and killed her, she wouldn''t give up your location"

 36 Chapter 35

    We have been with Rose for a few hours, she was telling me all about my mother and how she was, some great stories some sad ones. It was getting late so I asked her one last question as promised "Do you know anything about me being Acadia or the prophecy?" Rose looked at me with glared eyes.


    "Why do you ask?" so I explained the note my mother left when she left me.


    Rose jumps up and starts pacing "She didn''t tell me this, You must have had another vision, for her to say that is serious" she eyed me with suspicion making Claudette and Kelvin stand in front of me.


    "Why are you looking at me like that?" she stopped pacing and looked at me with the glare again.


    "Have you fallen in love yet?" I started to panic, that is a weird question.


    "Um, why do you ask?" I stand up behind the two and look at Rose.


    "They never told you anything? Nothing about the prophecy?"


    I shook my head "Yes they told me that if I was the prophecy I could either destroy the world or help it, depends if I turn evil or not. What does that have to do with love?"


    She laughed "What does love have to do with it? Why my dear it is the thin line that could turn you evil or keep you sane!" she started pacing again.


    Claudette turns toward me with a question in her eyes, and Kelvin stiffens beside me "I think it''s best we go my queen" he says out loud.


    "Yes it is time you go, I cannot answer any more of your questions. But I do have another question for you to ask the council, my dear... Ask them about who you are supposed to marry!"


    I started freaking out at what she said, my body started to glow with my confusion and anger, Kelvin grabbed my hand and carried me outside snapping me out of my mind, I heard Rose gasp and Claudette''s footsteps rushing behind us. Kelvin put me in the back seat and they climbed upfront.


    "What does she mean who I''m supposed to marry?" they both looked back at me with sympathy and worry, only Claudette spoke up.


    "We will discuss this at the house, I am calling the council to meet now" as she started making phone calls, and Kelvin kept glancing at me to make sure I don''t explode us all in the car. I sat and thought of everything, My mother is definitely dead, my father killed her, and I killed him, which gave me a small smile for revenging her.


    This whole marriage thing confuses me, Is that why Buford keeps holding back? Was my mother forced to marry my father? I am going to be forced to marry some unknown man?


    We are back at my house before we know it, and I open the door for everyone to come in, still in a shocking state I find my desk and sit.


    I look up to see everyone discussing something silently with each other, and Buford is there looking at me with concern on his face. Claudette stood beside my desk, and Zaline came to hold my hand, grateful I squeezed with a thank you.


    Claudette explained the whole conversation to everyone, telling them that it was not confirmed that I was the destined Acadia, but that my mother was in fact dead.


    After she finished speaking, they all asked questions and Claudette answered, I was lost in shock and anger not noticing that I started to glow and everyone backing away until Buford called my name, I looked up to him confused, why was he calling my name?


    Then I noticed my glow and I calmed down, I looked at all the council and glared "Who am I suppose to marry?" My voice boomed with authority, and I heard some gasp, some audible groans and looked at Buford who refused to meet my eyes.


    "We apologize, my queen, we were going to tell you next week before the prospects arrive for approval" I heard one of them say


    "Prospects? Do you mean I can choose? Or is this being forced upon me?" I say still glaring at them, why wouldn''t they tell me this before? They probably didn''t want me to run away before taking the thrown.


    "It is our tradition to have the best most powerful prospects from all over the world to come here, the council will do the first round of tests for them and choose three for you to choose from for marriage. The more powerful the husband of the heir the more powerful the next heir will be and they will not target your husband to get to you since it is arranged, no love to target" Claudette spoke up with what I swear was a smirk.

 37 Chapter 36

    It has been a week since the announcement about my mother and my soon to be marriage, we all spent the week in mourning for my mother.


    After they announced what would happen with the marriage prospects, they told me they could come from anywhere and they would go through some trials before being selected.


    I told them that I would have the final say in who I marry, tradition or not, and they all agreed, they said this is a process to help choose the best.


    I haven''t spoken to Buford since the meeting and I secretly hope he makes it through the trials, if he is even going to participate, but I won''t let him know that.


    I decided to sneak to the mansion they are holding the trials at, and take a peek at some of the men that will be coming. I should say I tried to sneak in but of course being the queen, it wasn''t long before I was noticed by some of the housekeepers.


    They led me to a balcony that oversaw the whole ballroom and was well hidden from them, and I saw chairs lined up for the men to sit, a refreshment table and some guards.


    The middle of the room was empty for what I assumed was the area to show them their powers and a table in front of that for the council.


    They told me I could come and sit with them but I refused because they were supposed to make the decisions based on powers, and other things that the council is for I had no clue about still. That doesn''t mean I didn''t want to see what was going on, or how things were running, to prepare my future children for the same fate.


    There were already about forty men in the seats, some were mingling with others and some were on their phones away from the others. I saw a few handsome faces, but nothing that stood out like Buford did, and I couldn''t find him anywhere, but I did see his mother at the council table with the others.


    Squinting my eyes at the man that came in the door, he looked familiar, and I had to wait for him to get closer, no, it couldn''t be. Remey strode in like he was at home, a few nods came his way and he suddenly stopped and looked up towards me. Quickly ducking down hoping he didn''t see me, my heart was racing, what was he doing here?


    I finally picked my head up when I heard shouts that sounded like Buford, and when I looked, sure enough, they were toe to toe, with guards surrounding them.


    "You are not supposed to be here traitor!" Buford yelled at Remey.


    "The invitation is for ALL men with magic, so I came, for Acadia" he said cooly back to Buford.


    "What makes you think she wants you!" Buford yelled at him.


    "It doesn''t matter what you say, I will pass the trials and you will see my friend" He told him and turned around to walk to the other side of the room.


    I looked at Buford to see his angry face talking to the guards in hushed tones. I don''t know how I feel about Remey being here either, I trusted him once and he betrayed me, but he also told me he was being real with me.


    My father supposedly made him do those things to me, I remembered how sweet he was to me, and how we got along very well, but I never fully gave it a chance now did I.


    No, I was always drawn to Buford even if I was with Remey, but I guess we will see if his words are true soon enough, he has to pass the trials first.


    Since the incident with my father, they added a truth trial to see the intentions of the new soon to be husband of mine, and it forces the truth out of them.


    I am glad I came today, now I have nothing to do but sit back in the shadows and see who comes out on top after today and tomorrow.


    Tomorrow it should be down to less than half of them, and by lunch is when I will be asked to see who the last two are, and I actually got a little excited to see if either Buford or Remey will make it to the end.

 38 Chapter 37

    I woke up the next morning with the intention of sneaking back into the balcony to watch the trials, but Kelvin and Zaline had other plans.


    "It''s not that bad, come on Acadia" Zaline grumbled pulling on my arm.


    "I do not want to go" I told her while I kept struggling to sit on the couch.


    "You have to" Kelvin smiled at me, trying a different approach than my best friend.


    "Fine but you two will have to endure it with me" I huffed out and got up off the couch.


    "Uh, I am not sure that is the best..." Kelvin started to speak and I glared at him.


    "Its an order" I said which made Zaline laugh at him until I looked at her, "You too" and her face scrunched up stopping the laughter.


    A half-hour later we were at the mansion, I was sitting on my thrown, making them sit beside me on each side.


    "Your majesty, this present is from my wife and I" a wizard said as he presented me with a chicken, a real-life chicken.


    "Thank you, how can I help you?" I asked while gesturing to Kelvin to hold the chicken, he groaned and grabbed it, sitting back next to me.


    "My wife is pregnant, and was just wondering if the new queen would bless us with well wishes" the man said. This was the easiest request today and smiled at the man before wishing his unborn child luck.


    "Ok that was the last of the morning, you need to eat on the way, we are going to meet your two new prospects" Zaline got up, and handed the stuff she had in her arms to one of the staff.


    I laughed at her face, and the laughter caught on with her as we looked at poor Kelvin trying to chase the chicken that escaped his arms when he got up.


    "Just leave it, Kelvin, maybe next time you will both send someone else to make me do these things" I laughed again, and he stood up pulling a feather out of his shirt from the struggle earlier.


    We stopped and grabbed a burger out of the kitchen before making our way to the ballroom, I had to force myself to eat because my stomach was filled with nerves already.


    "Your majesty" Claudette greeted me first and led me to the head of the table they were at yesterday, and I sat down.


    "Where are they?" I asked, not seeing anyone but the judges in here with us.


    "They will come in one by one, and we will leave you now to meet them. Only Kelvin will stay for protection, and you will have ten minutes with them before they are taken to their rooms. I think you will be pleased with our choices" she nodded and they left the room.


    "Are you ready?" Kelvin asked me, and I shakily nodded my head at him.


    I sat there waiting as they called the first one in, and I don''t think my face was surprised enough for him when he walked in, because he frowned as I just stared at him walking toward me.


    "I told you I missed you" Remey sat in a chair across from me with that sexy smirk of his.


    "So you decided to try for my hand in marriage, even after everything" I told him not letting any ounce of emotion in my voice.


    "Yes, I had to show you I meant it, I really do care for you and I passed the test, so you know I don''t have any ill intentions Acadia" he told me as he leaned closer to me over the table.


    "Just because you passed a test does not mean you can get past me, what are your intentions?" I asked him.


    "I started getting close to you because of your father, I never thought that you would turn out to be this amazing person. I never thought that you would be so beautiful that you take my breath away when I look at you, I thought you would be like your father. I care about you as I said, I want to try and make this work" He reached over the table to grab my hand.


    I flashed some magic at him and pulled my hand away "Ill think about it, our time is up" I told him, as he got up and smiled at me one last time before slipping out the door.


    My mind was reeling with the information, and I didn''t have much time to think before the second guy came walking in, I looked up hoping it was Buford but it wasn''t.

 39 Chapter 38

    The man that walked in the door had brown hair and was on the shorter side. When he came to sit in front of me I saw his dull brown eyes before he smiled at me.


    "Hi, my name is Oscar. It is a pleasure to meet you, your majesty" he told me in a scratchy voice.


    "Nice to meet you too, I have some questions for you if that is ok?" I asked him, I don''t know him or have never seen him in my life.


    "Of course, I can tell you some things first to eliminate some of them. I am twenty-five, I have three sisters, and parents are no longer around. I am from one of the lower covers in Alabama, but I was the top of my magic class and well known for my powers there" he flashed his smile at me again.


    "Ok... What are your powers?" I was curious now.


    "I can''t do this" and he blinked, but I didn''t see anything change.


    "Where did he go?" asked Kelvin running behind me to protect me.


    "What do you mean? He is still sitting in front of me" I told Kelvin and looked at him like he lost his mind.


    "You can still see me?" Oscar asked me with a grin on his face.


    "Yes, why?" I looked at Kelvin still looking around the room, and I looked back at Oscar.


    "I have the ability to disappear, I am basically invisible. You, however, are a true queen if you can still see me, that is wonderful!" he blinked his eyes and laughed excitedly.


    "Don''t do that again" Kelvin pointed at Oscar and scowled before walking back towards his corner.


    "That would come in handy" I giggled at Kelvin''s response, and Oscar made an even bigger smile.


    "Do you have any more questions, your majesty?"


    "Yes, why do you want to marry me?" I asked him, making my face go back to a firm look.


    "Well, honestly, because I am a caring man, I believe in the cause to help restore order back to our kind. I could be a great asset, and I''m sure love would come later in our marriage, I think it would be worth it" he told me with such passion, I understand what he means, he has a passion for getting rid of any merdique as I do.


    "Thank you for your honesty. Our time is up for the day, it was a pleasure to meet you" I told him.


    He bowed, kissing my hand before leaving out the door. I sighed loudly before I got up from my chair ready to leave for the day and make my choice.


    I reached the door that Kelvin was holding open for me when I heard someone say "Hold on" and I turned to see Buford walking through the door.


    "What are you doing here?" I asked him a little breathless, no matter how mad I am at him, he still takes my breath away.


    "They didn''t tell you?" he said with a smirk, reaching me faster than I realized he was walking.


    "Tell me what?" he grabbed my hands and pulled them up to kiss my knuckles.


    "Tell you that they chose three of us this year" he said.


    It took me a few seconds of looking at his handsome face for me to realize what he said, oh my God they chose three eligible bachelors instead of two, no wonder why Claudette was smirking when she left.


    I looked up at him under my lashes, a shy smile turning up on my face and I whispered "Really? are you my third?"


    "Yes" he leaned down and whispered back. His face was so close to mine, he was still holding my hands, and my heartfelt like it was pounding out of my chest.


    I broke away from his hold and backed up a few feet "I... umm.." I couldn''t form a sentence to save my life.


    "I know I have been distant lately, I knew this was going to happen. I tried to stay away, I tried to stop my feelings for you, I did what I could, even if that meant pushing you away. I''m sorry, I really am, I love you too, I just had to make sure I was worthy..." he looked at me with so much passion.


    I felt a tear fall down my face "Why didn''t you just tell me? You knew about this... you let me think the worse... why didn''t you just tell me!" I screamed at Buford.


    My feet started moving and the next thing I knew I was climbing in the car, I felt my magic start to go haywire but I didn''t care at the moment.


    Kelvin hopped in the car on my heels and pulled out of the driveway, squeezing the tires "Hold on Acadia, I''m bringing you to a field to release your magic, just hold on"

 40 Chapter 39

    *Kelvin''s POV*


    The car was shaking with Acadia in the back, I just kept telling her to hold while trying to keep the car on the road. In just a few minutes we will be in an open field that is secluded, it helps that I am breaking the spread limit by triple.


    I wanted to take my queens pain away, I would go back and beat both of those stubborn guys up if she wanted, no matter if one was my cousin or not, they are selfish.


    I finally came upon the empty cotton field that was behind one of our mansions and pulled to a sudden stop, I hopped out and ran to open her door.


    She stumbled out and the look in her eyes was feral, her feelings were everywhere, and I knew there was no talking her down this time.


    She ran into the field a few steps and falter, falling on her knees, then her powers were going haywire, I didn''t know what to do.


    I ran to the truck to get my cell phone, I had to call the woman that was always on my mind, the one that kept me in constant smiles when I thought of her, she would know what to do.


    "Hey, Kelvin" I heard her answer breathlessly.


    "Zaline... It''s Acadia, I need help" I told her on the phone, controlling my voice, so she didn''t hear either the panic or the longing for her.


    "What''s wrong? Where are you?" he voice went to panic mode, and I filled her in on everything, she told me she would be there in less than ten minutes.


    I turned around to look at Acadia, she was just sitting there still in the middle of the field, charred areas around her, but the crying continued.


    She started to levitate and talking to herself, I started to panic as she turned in slow circles, I caught a glimpse of her eyes and they were turning jet black, the wind picking up around us.


    I couldn''t hear what she was saying, but just the pure power coming from her was enough to make a human run in fear, if she wasn''t my queen, I would be right behind them.


    Zaline showed up, which seemed like it was only minutes since she got off the phone with me, but I had been watching Acadia for longer than I thought.


    "What should we do?" I yelled over the wind whipping around us almost hurricane force like, I was on the other side of the truck now to stay on my feet.


    Zaline handed me her bag, which I set in the truck, and she walked around towards Acadia.


    "She needs to smash something or kill it" She yelled back at me. I understood what she meant, we needed to let her get her anger out so her magic calms down.


    She nodded at me, and I sent my clones out towards Acadia, it didn''t take her long to start throwing her magic at them, making them dissipate once they were hit. It seemed to be working, but not enough, so Zaline sent out some ghouls and ghosts that gave Acadia more of a chase.


    Our magic was waning after forty-five minutes of doing this in shifts, but thank the voodoo spirits, Acadia seemed to finally calm down, she floated back to the ground.


    "Acadia, oh Hunny" Zaline ran to her and grabbed her in a hug, while they both sobbed in each other''s arms.


    The next thing you know, I felt another magic presence near me, and not a good one.


    I didn''t have time to warn the two crying women when thirty or so men came out, they were Merdique, damn it. Zaline popped her head up a few seconds later and scrambled to her feet.


    "Acadia!" she screamed and took a protective stance in front of her, and I followed protecting the queen as well.


    Acadia got to her feet, and the black eyes were still there, oh shit, they must have sensed her magic. I jumped to the side and warned Zaline, and she looked at Acadia''s eyes and gasped... Is this the prophecy Acadia that we were warned about?


    The men came within a few feet of us, smiling like they just caught their prey.


    "Look who we have here! And she looks ready to join our side without our persuasion" the man laughed, he looked like the group leader, and we came closer to our queen.


    We heard vehicles pull up behind us, and I glanced back to see our council, Remey, Buford and the other candidate Oscar come running up behind us.


    No one said anything back, the enemies looked ready to pounce, our side looking ready to do the same, but we all watched as Acadia walked towards the middle of us.


    She stopped, looked around at everyone, our group gasped at her midnight black eyes, and she landed her eyes on Buford. You could see the pain in his eyes, he did this to her, he knew it, but he started walking to her anyways, so did Remey and Oscar.

 41 Chapter 40

    *Buford''s POV*


    As I walked toward Acadia, I heard Remey whisper harshly "You did this to her, you were the last one in there" he accused.


    I couldn''t tell him any different, I did, and I wish I could have told her sooner, warned her of this, but I was under strict orders not to say a word.


    I never thought I would fall in love, especially with this beautiful, kind-hearted woman in front of me. Even if she looks like she could kill us all in the next moment, I still loved her deeply and hated I did this.


    I never let my eyes go away from hers, her eyes were completely black, not the pretty golden color that I yearned to look at.


    She put her hand up for us to stop before we could reach her, and she looked around wildly. I took the opportunity to look up myself and see that both sides had many more people join them, they felt her magic like we did, it was a beacon calling us.


    Acadia raised her hands and the ground seemed to shake, what was she doing? A whole bunch of people popped up across from her, they were in the middle of each group, but looking at them closely, they weren''t people, they were the dead. She raised the dead like her father, man this is getting bad real quick.


    "Queen Acadia, join our side, you know you want to, the power coursing through you right now is powerful. If you join us, you can let it out anytime you want to, and put those that hurt you in their place" The guy standing closer to her on the Merdique side taunted her.


    "Don''t listen to him Acadia, stay with us. We are on your side, we are here to protect you, I care about you" Remey told her out loud.


    Acadia whipped her head towards him and let out a hysterical and scary laugh, uh oh, wrong thing to say right now.


    She started elevating off the ground, her eyes never changing, and a black mist surrounding her now, she floated over to her new dead creations.


    "Tsk Tsk, what shall I do" she said in a voice that I have never heard, it was deep, menacing, and vibrated every bone in our bodies.


    *Remey''s POV*


    "Tsk Tsk, what shall I do" she said in a voice that I have never heard, it was deep, menacing, and vibrated every bone in our bodies.


    I pissed her off, I know I did, I should have never said anything to her, I am such a fool. The worst part was I didn''t know if I truly loved her in that type of way, I knew I missed her and wanted to protect her, but I was still sorting out my feelings.


    I didn''t lie when I said she was beautiful, and that I cared for her, and I was willing to marry her to protect her in any way I can. I have been with Merdique so long that I wasn''t sure how to understand my feelings, maybe it was the bond of the queen I was feeling.


    She held her finger on her mouth like she was thinking, and then lifted her other hand to put up a shield around her and her dead minions. She reminded me of her father at that moment, and it terrified me, he was evil, and she was so young and innocent before me and Buford broke her.


    We all watched her and she did the thing we were all terrified of, she started walking towards the enemies, the guy that spoke earlier smiled at her and then turned his attention on us.


    This was it, the prophecy, we caused this, now we will all die trying to protect ourselves, and our only hope just joined the other side.


    "NNOOOO" Buford screamed before all hell broke loose, the fighting began. Acadia sent her minions toward us, and we all started sending our magic out to protect ourselves.


    I sent a tornado wind in front of me to block the orbs flying toward us, a few people were falling on the ground by an invisible force, that must be Oscar.


    Zaline had thrown some potions into the crowd while sending her ghouls out to help against the zombies that Acadia made.


    Kelvin stood beside her protecting her while sending out his clones to attack as well, we were holding ourselves pretty well until Acadia started humming with that bright light.


    She sent some flying toward us, a few of us dodges, some were not so lucky. At that moment I looked over to see Buford fighting with all his might trying to get to Acadia, that is when I realized I didn''t truly love her like that, he did.


    "Buford needs to get to Acadia! " I screamed out to anybody that could hear me.

 42 Chapter 41

    *Acadia''s POV*


    My mind felt fuzzy, it was like I was in the back of my head, not able to feel, or control what was going on, another part of me took control.


    I watched in the back of my mind as my other self, the evil side, chose to fight with the enemies, making my minions attack my friends.


    Were they really my friends? They kept things from me, deciding to try and keep me happy, so I didn''t turn into this.


    I felt my power rage with the anger and hurt I was feeling, then my body started glowing. I knew my evil self was right fighting against the people that hurt me, she was protecting me.


    She sent a glowing magic ball at some of my friends, hurting a few, and that''s when I realized, it was me. My evil self was me, I was the one doing it, I was the one feeling all of this, and I laughed in a menacing way.


    I felt some different powers bounce of my protective shield, and sent my orbs towards them, hitting them square in the chest, making them kill over.


    The power running through my veins felt so amazing, I didn''t want to stop, so I kept throwing my magic at anyone I saw in my path, no matter which side they were on.


    I saw the panicked eyes of the ones I chose to help, the surprise and the fear in everyone else''s, I didn''t care, this felt amazing, I finally felt like I was in full control of my whole self.


    I felt a strange tug in my heart, it was calling to me, I tried my best to ignore it, I really did.


    After a few seconds I finally looked over to my right, sending an orb of power at someone, I didn''t realize until that person fell on the ground, that is was Buford.


    *Claudette''s POV*


    I knew I was playing with fire when I kept things from Acadia, but I saw how my son looked at her, and I was terrified. I didn''t want him to be involved with her, I told him to stay away from her, that he may not be good enough for her. I didn''t tell him that she could end up destroying the world, him first.


    I thought I was protecting my son, and everyone else, but I was wrong, so wrong. After letting her know about the trials for a future husband, Buford came to me pleading to let him join, that no matter what I say or do, he still loves her.


    He told me she loved him too, and that it would destroy them both if she had to marry someone else. I couldn''t hold back my son any longer, I decided to let him in, and to my surprise, the council picked him as the first option.


    Now watching the effects of me keeping him away from her, the hurt I had caused her, the aftermath of my stupid meddling, I wish I could take it back.


    I looked over in horror, as Buford finally made it closer to her, she struck him down, he was on the ground not moving. My motherly instincts kicked in and I ran to him, falling on my knees cuddling his head, and started sobbing, my husband right behind me.


    I looked up at Acadia and saw her staring at Buford, not moving or fighting anymore, which made hope bloom in my chest, I knew what I had to do.


    Everyone that was still alive, took the opportunity to run away while they still could, some staying near us, like Kelvin and Zaline, they were holding each other.


    I smiled a little at that, they finally realized they were meant for each other, at last. Now to let Acadia know what I have done, and that it wasn''t his fault, all her pain is my fault.


    I grabbed my husband''s hand, sending him all the love I had with my eyes, and before he could object, I stood up and walked to Acadia.


    "Acadia, I need you to listen to me. He loves you, it is my fault he stayed away from you, not his... I thought I was protecting him" I told her with so much sorrow.


    She looked at me with those evil black eyes, and it looked like she was having a war in her head, indecision, and anger, then understanding and anger again, all flashed in her eyes fast as lightning.


    Then the strangest thing happened, she raised her hand and all the dead minions she had dropped where they stood. Her eyes changed, one still black and her other turned to her golden color, a beautiful mixture of both her bad and good sides.


    I didn''t know if I should be scared or happy, was she going to stop the damage and come back to us all?


    I stood rigid and had to cover my ears the next second, all of us did. Acadia leaned her head back and screamed, all of her magic flowing over the field in waves of black and golden mist, the impact from the power making me fall to my knees.


    I finally looked up a minute later to see her on the ground, holding Buford in her arms, she put her hand over his heart and leaned down to kiss him.


    I saw the magic flowing between the two, their magic dancing together, her mist and his fire, and I couldn''t help the tears that flowed down my face.

 43 Chapter 42

    * 6 Months later*


    *Zaline''s POV*


    I finished gathering up our dresses, makeup bags, and everything I would need to get ready for today, and headed to Acadia''s house.


    I walked into her office to see her sitting at her desk, listening to Kelvin, Claudette, Remey, and Oscar. I looked into her eyes and it still took my breath away, her eyes stayed the same since the battle, one black and one golden, a mixture of who she truly is.


    I then looked at my new fiance and was hit with a mixture of feelings, he was so handsome and soon to be all mine, he felt the same way. The battle made us admit our feelings for each other, and it surprised me he liked me as much as him, and now we already live together, taking every moment for granted.


    "The north, south, and east are clear of all Merdique your majesty, we are working on getting the location of the leader in the west still, they are elusive" Remey told her. Oscar and he replaced two of the council member that died during the fight, and they were made co-leaders of her security teams.


    "Thank you, I am glad most of the others came to us and passed our truth test, it is a shame they were forced to believe those lies about us. The others in the west should follow soon" Acadia responded. She then dismissed the conversation with them, and they bowed and headed out, telling me hey on the way out.


    I took the opportunity to jump in before they could continue "Shame on all of you, working on such a beautiful day" I joked with them.


    Kelvin came and kissed me on the cheek "Sorry dear" and looked at Acadia "I will be outside waiting for your majesty" he told her and walked outside. Kelvin was her new personal bodyguard during the day, even though she didn''t need one, I was delighted she chose him to keep him close to me.


    "Here, I will take those and get it set up in the room" Claudette said as she came and took the bags out of my hand and went upstairs. After Claudette''s confession about keeping Buford away from Acadia, she has changed a lot, she is nicer to everyone and jumps to help in any way possible.


    "You know I just thought about something Zaline" Acadia piped up.


    "What is that?" I smirked at her, she is and still will always be my best friend, no matter if she went evil for a while, she was still the amazing woman I have met a few years ago, just less naive.


    "I had a vision the other day, but couldn''t decipher it until I saw you walk in" She smiled at me, not another vision, they don''t end up so well when she has them.


    "And? Am I going to die or something?" I asked her breathlessly.


    "The opposite actually, at first I thought it was about me, but since everything changed with me as you know... I have been having good visions... Like another beautiful soul being brought into this world" she stated looking at me than my stomach, then back to me with a smile.


    "Oh my god! Are you serious?" I asked putting my hand on my stomach, shocked but happy. She nodded her head,yes, and I hugged her with all my might, I was going to be a mother, I couldn''t wait to tell Kelvin.


    "Ok, ok, enough of all that for now, we have a wedding to get to" She told me and I almost forgot for a second, we ran upstairs and starts getting dressed, today was defiantly a beautiful day.


    Two hours later I was standing opposite of Kelvin, he looked handsome in his suit, all the men did, and the woman in their dresses.


    I looked up with a tear in my eye when I heard ''I Do'' and the place erupted in cheers. I took Kelvin''s hand, and followed everyone down the aisle, running to my best friend with a hug and kiss before leaving.


    "I wish you all the happiness in the world Acadia, you finally have the family that you always wished for, and hopefully you can add to it soon" I winked at her as I pulled away from our hug.


    "And you Mr., you better treat my best friend with all the respect she deserves! If she calls me from the honeymoon crying, I will put a hex bag under your pillow" I told Buford, and he smiled at me.


    "You know I will never do anything to hurt the love of my life, my queen, and now my wife" he looked at Acadia with tenderness in his eyes, she looked back at him the same way.


    Kelvin wrapped his arm around me and all of us bowed to the happy couple before they left for their honeymoon "Your Majesties" the crowd rang out, and they kissed each other, waving goodbye.


    Even though we still had some work to do to bring us all together again, I couldn''t help but be happy for my friend, Buford, and all of us. Things were so much better since we found our new queen, our world was returning to normal, a safe place, and somewhere I would be proud to raise this child of mine. Sighing I leaned into Kelvin and watched the king and queen go, hopefully returning with an heir on the way, someone for my little one to play with.


    *The End*