Realistic or Modern Spellbound

[xrakkax]

“Oh, right. No, it’s only for Granya.” Natalia assured her.

Molly swiped hair from her face, “So, what does being a werewolf entail?”

Natalia figured that would come up, “Her curse means that Granya’s nature is entwined with the nature of the wolf. They are conflicting beings fighting for dominance. The history isn’t clear. What we do know is that she has many restrictions a lupine animal has, such as being unable to eat chocolate or grapes.” They recalled those times. “It also means her mind, her behavior, is disorienting between what a wolf would do and what a human would do.” They’d learn the idiosyncrasies they weren’t familiar with would become more apparent now as time went on, “Every full moon the curse allows the wolf nature to dominate. Granya loses much memory during these times and is forced into the position of a bystander. She isn’t predictable at these times. We have learned the best solution is to bring her out at night to the ocean, where we can mask her transformation. Transition to wolf and back is hard on her body. Granya needs at least a solid night's sleep for recovery.” Natalia explained. Willow recalled coming to Theo’s house unexpectedly the day she got the concert tickets.

“Mmm, okay.” Molly nodded, “So wait, how does that go? And does she howl at the moon and all that? Has she ever jumped off the ship or anything?”

They murmured there had been a trial and error period. Natalia said, “We have our yacht that I live in with my father and it has a respectable tug boat dragged with us at the back. When we get far enough out to sea we weigh anchor, extend the chain between the tug boat and the yacht, help Granya on board, and then push it from the ship.” Natalia could already see Molly would want to know how they got away with this, if not by using magic. “We have help from a kelpie. Only Theo knows her true name, but we all call her Kellsy.”

Theo spoke here, “Stay away from Kellsy. She is fairy folk. She is sneaky and she does not like humans.” He frowned. Kellsy tolerated Theo. That was about it. “My former girlfriend did not listen. Her name is Olivia. She made a deal with the kelpie and failed the riddle game.” Theo did his best to explain the situation and said that Olivia is now an indentured servant.

 

[Soliloquy]

The precisely timed Moon Fishing trips and the fact that they went as a whole family now made more sense. It also gave a fair idea as to why the girls weren't invited to join them in the past.That also gave a sense of understanding why so much of the family worked at an owned business; time off had to be easier for them to find than if they were working typical jobs. Her sympathy for everything Granya had to endure and what her family was willing to do for her grew, wondering now if that was something she or Molly would be allowed to try and assist with.

The talk of this Kellsy the kelpie furrowed her brows together as Willow looked between Natalia and Theo for a deeper explanation. Once she had a reasonable grasp on just what a kelpie was, she also understood why it was that Jovan had kept the reigns tight on Theo when she had first started working at the pub. Becoming a seaweed handmaiden didn't really appeal to Willow, but that did mean that Jovan was getting an extra Christmas present for being the voice of reason in how fast this all unraveled. Maybe some day she'd ask more about Olivia, but for now it did bring up another topic that had been discussed briefly.

"Familiars," she said, glancing at Willow and spotting Avril coiled about Amalia as the two closest and most visible of the animals. "Theo said the animals are bound by magic?"

 

[xrakkax]

“Not ‘magic’. Rather, not ‘Amlaeri’. Animals have been found to have a responsive spirit that can cooperate with our own. Plants too, but they appear to be ‘lower’ and more useful as ingredients than protective measures.” Natalia motioned for Amalia to make some tea. She liked tea. Particularly peppermint.

Molly asked, “So how does it work then? How do you have these bound if not by magic? What do you bind it by?”

Theo smiled, “Is not ‘bound’." He paused, "To make easy, we can call it that though."

Natalia thanked Amalia for her tea and blew on it, “Da, it seems that magical people are able to convey meaning to all creatures. That creature, in response, makes their decision to stay in this communication and become a companion. Separate from us they are as any other beast. With us, they have a heightened intelligence and reason. They make this connection. We do not. Well--” Natalia bobbed her head in thought, “--all beings on the Earth do. Not the ones within it. Those creatures are really fairies, like Kellsy and work out of a different rule book.”

 

[Soliloquy]

She was following along well enough or so she thought, recalling a few times that Bandit seemed to understand what was being said to her, not typical behaviorism for a ferret. There were probably times she'd witnessed with the other animals, but Bandit was definitely who she had spent the most time with, especially as Theo was spending nights more frequently, always bringing the additional house guest during his stays. "So aside from being smarter, is there anything else they can do since they're connected?"

"There are general advantages. We can tap into their intuition, we can understand them to great depth. They can detect intended harm." Natalia hummed to think, sipping her tea. "Ah, we can see what they see if we close one or both of our eyes. We can hear what they hear. Sometimes, though it is faint, we can sense what they touch and taste." The girls recalled an occasion or two when one of them had paused what they were doing to close an eye.

"What about you?" her attention turned to Jovan who had been relatively quiet. "Everyone else seems to have a familiar I can connect to them, except you." The rest of the family was all but inseparable from their companions, but she couldn't imagine anything curling up in Jovan's pocket - his barking voice might scare them off!

Jovan held out a hand. A streak of red fur leaped out of the branches overhead. A squirrel came to sit on his palm. "Is squirrel." He watched the animal sniff the air, peeking around at them all, before jumping back into the trees.

"Oh!" Molly smiled, "How sweet."

"Da, he okay." Jovan shrugged a shoulder. "Good. Reliable."

Molly humphed, "Oh come on, it's your companion, yeah? I'd thought even you gotta have more affection than that for a critter who risks their butt."

Grimly Jovan said, "I have much respect for squirrel. But I. . ." A flutter of hurt flashed over his face as memories came to mind. "I not have close creature companion since before we left homelands." He shook his head and said he rather not speak about his personal pain like that.

The rest of the family murmured in sympathy. That had been a loss for Jovan. Natalia gave her father a comforting press of her head to his shoulder before straightening back up, "It is hard to speak of life within the Earth." Natalia offered to Molly, who looked curious, though she didn't prod. But of course, while the girls probably should step away from getting in personal business like that, the family were still open books.

Willow felt her heart go out to Jovan, a man who had clearly loss so much in his life and she could understand why he had such tough skin. No doubt every loss left him with little option beside to thicken himself and carry on, especially for his daughter, but also for his niece and nephews. That seemed to answer every question she had on the topic of familiars, anyways. "Now that we know all of this, aside from obviously never speaking to anyone of it, is there anything we should be aware of? Either unconscious things we might do that are a risk or that are warning signs if people around us aren't that nice?" She imagined something had to have given away the hunters they had ran into before, and if there was some way she could recognize someone like Agnar in the future, she'd prefer to not put herself in a bad position.

 

[xrakkax]

Natalia thought that over, “Fair question.” She tried to make the list short and sweet, “For every question asked of you that you know has a simple, explainable answer, go for it. Be as honest as you can with others. For any you can’t, please let them know you’re not sure, or they can ask us. Until you get a handle on it yourselves.” That was a good start. “Occasionally a Mage of a member of a Coven will try to reach out to us.” They were pesky, and annoying with their persistence. “They will try to convince you that they are the way to peace. Do not listen to them. If you are suspicious, shut down conversation and come to us. If they think you are a Mundie, they may leave, but they may also think we are betrayers to-- what they call-- ‘our’ kind. If a person who isn’t a relative of a child is paying too much attention to them, they may be a Mage. They can do all kinds of things. Sell candy, invite for play at a park, babysit, etc.” Natalia felt good enough to move on from Mages

Theo said, “Mage’s are easier for us to know about.”

“Is hard for us to know who is Hunter and who is not.” Natalia nodded and frowned. “We know Hunters are proficient in tracking through various methods, they are usual fit and stealthy, they tend to be wealthy to spend on weapons and pay for access to any area they need, they work solo or in small groups normally, but they communicate with each other.” Natalia listed off some of the details they’ve been told. “Pay attention to schedules. Ethan came on a day we didn’t expect. That was tense for us.”

Molly recalled Bear at her side. That day he didn’t leave her until the others came out of the kitchen. Willow, of course, could recall Theo’s reflexive, protective arm around her, and how the family grew serious in that moment before they realized it was just Ethan.

“There are family Hunters, but we only know of two names.” Natalia sipped her tea again to wet her throat, “De Lancre and Bellwether.” The lack of knowledge of them has troubled them. “There are more, or so we heard from Runa, but they hide well enough to make it difficult to know who they are and where they go. Runa has been on Earth for forty years and she still only knew two names to warn us about.”

“Who is Runa?” Molly asked. Willow would know the woman at the yacht party.

Theo smiled, “An old friend who helped us understand how to live in America. She lives here somewhere in Texas. Willow and I saw her on the yacht. She is from our homelands too.”

Natalia nodded, “Da, one of the first to leave Aarin.”

 

[Soliloquy]

Willow tucked away what information she was given, although she hoped by some miracle she wasn't going to need to use it. This did open up the question of how often had she ran into someone who was a mage and not known it? Especially if apparently even Molly had Almaeri to her, from Theo's prediction - could the same be said for anyone else? Even her own family? She also wondered if they planned on telling Molly of their suspicions.

The hunters were undoubtedly the force she was more concerned with, seeing as they knew less of them and they seemed to pose the bigger threat to her new family. A big tell of a mage she had decided was the familiars that everyone seemed to have. How was she going to pick a hunter out of a crowd? Saying they were wealthy and powerful didn't help at all, that sounded like every family she knew growing up and that hardly seemed logical. But if that was all the information they had, she'd have to take it and learn from it. Remembering Runa from the party, she recalled the woman being kind and offering them a blessing that meant a lot to Theo.

Natalia's last sentence perked her interest though, vaguely recalling hearing it the night prior. "Aarin. Liam mentioned that name last night. Who is Aarin?"

 

[xrakkax]

“Aarin is a place. Not a person.” Natalia figured this may come up during the trip. Thankfully the family agreed to let her give a little bit of a foreshadowing. Willow and Molly didn’t know it at the time, but now all would be made clear. “Girls, do you remember the story I told about the little boy born in the belly of the world?”

Willow nodded, glancing over at Liam as she tried to imagine how he appeared from some place with nothing but a loincloth on. "Yeah, the Gaia story," she recalled from their drive up to the campsite.

“Yeah.” Molly nodded, curious.

“My grandpa Lyov is that little boy.” Natalia helped them understand that although much of that was fancy flowery storytelling, the essence of it remained true. Gaia had been an easy enough tool for her purposes, but none of them so far believed the Earth itself had a spirit.

Her eyes widened at the reveal, imagining a young Lyov battling large beasts and fighting the odds for the chance at a better future. Now that her knowledge of what was possible and what wasn't had shifted, she couldn't know how much of that was real and how much only an alliteration. Regardless, he was a hero to this family, making Jovan's costume of him for Halloween month prior all that much more meaningful. "He is a very brave man," she remarked solemnly, knowing that between bringing his family through the world and to America and then willing to bind his magic that he was certainly braver than she might ever be.

Molly blinked, “You guys came out of the ground?”

Theo nodded, “Da.”

“Like, like a cave?” But the story didn’t say it was a cave, and caves don’t have clouds. Molly looked between them. “Here, can you just explain what you can from as early as you can? I feel like that would help me.”

Natalia nodded, “All throughout history humanity had no limits or boundaries concerning magic; who could use it, when they could. If you were without access to magic you were vulnerable to it. Period. Creatures of your myths and legends roamed freely, claiming divinity, warring for dominance.” Natalia explained that one day all of that changed. No one they knew had an answer as to how, or why. “Nearly two-thousand years ago the conditions of magic came to be, making it possible for the vulnerable to have a chance, and forced the choice to stay and struggle for control over the Earth, or leave to make for themselves a home of their own.” Millions of Almaeri users, and nearly all mythical creatures, burrowed into the center of the world where they carved out their own lands.

Jovan spoke here, in a gruff, sardonic tone, “The settlers believed they had made a utopia.” He scoffed, “But nothing had changed besides the location.”

The ‘Utopia’ became apocalyptic. Storms ravished the lands, mythic beasts prowled in search to eat either the people or each other. There were few places any communities could be formed without worrying about monsters or elemental disasters. The sun shined dimly. The moon, cracked and bleeding starlight, showered the ground in meteors that could cleave you in two. The wind carried curses, the ocean contemplated your doom, the ground opened up to swallow hapless sojourners and creatures into the uncaring void. Peace did not have a home in the center of the world.

Willow would recall that date with Theo. “You want the truth?” Theo had asked her in that little cafe. “Back there is lonely. Is dark. So much storm, so much life loss. Creatures try to kill and eat you all the time.” It had lacked the detail to paint a more specific picture, but he had been honest.

And if they did happen to snag a land untroubled by storms and creatures? Well whatever was missing inside humanity, in addition to the affliction of insanity, made keeping these communities together nothing short of a miracle. It happened so rarely that stories of them existing were considered the fairy-tales of their land. Magic eliminated the need for community. Why make bonds and relationships? They were fun. Until they weren’t. Magic replaced the need for self-discipline. Magic created a damp environment of the soul where all manner of diseases of selfishness thrived. You could dance with people-- oh, but you didn’t like the song they picked and you wished their nose was a little straighter. What do you do? You animate a statue. She’s just your type too: beauty by your design, silent, and unopinionated. Perhaps someone could point out that you could laugh with people-- wait, they didn’t get your humor. They have thoughts and minds contrary to your own. Why waste time on them? What use did they have, if they did not make you happy? Magic had one purpose for people; the harvest. Clans rose and fell, kingdoms were built and burned in their struggle for power.

Theo’s words echoed in her mind, “People; they want to take freedom because they think they know how you to live you life. Friend turn on you. Family die at hand of enemy.” And not just because of the mundane, usual human struggle for luxury. A Mage laughed at such squabbles. What need of they for servants or money for fast cars? They merley needed to wave their hands. No. No, they needed people. And for only what they could give them that they can’t make on their own.

But Lyov, who had woken one day in the early dawn, followed a call in his heart. To this day he has yet to understand it. But Lyov closed his eyes and followed the gentle peace. The quiet whisper inside. The path written in his heart brought him to the summit of a mountain. It was here he opened his eyes and found himself staring up into the clouds. Lyov knew, deep inside, that Hope, that Peace, that Love, would be found beyond the clouds.

Again, the cafe where Theo risked his secrets to Willow brought to mind another thing he had said, “My family we-- we leave behind hell hole. We break through surface, we breath fresh air, and come here to America where we can build life worth living.” Literally, they left a hell hole. They physically broke through the surface. They truly breathed, for the first time in any of their lives, real, natural, fresh air.

It had been in the winter, in Russia, not far from the tiny town of Okunevo. And though the freezing wind left their throats raw and their chests aching, they wept for joy and breathed deeply until their heads threatened to blackout. Micha just might have, in fact.

That was almost twenty years ago. Granya had been the first generation born on Earth. They celebrated the coming of a new life in a land of promise.

 

[Soliloquy]

As their history unfolded Willow was quick to go back to the scraps of information Theo had risked to prove to her that he wanted to be able to talk to her, she reached over for his hand. Sliding her fingers between his, she offered what comfort she could for a world they described that she knew she herself was too weak to survive. So many pieces were falling into place as their tale was told, and she had to imagine it was hard for them not to talk of this before now, especially when she hadn't been the most complacent with their silence.

At mention of Granya, her eyes drifted to the tent where she was presumably resting. She was the new life of a promised land that had the misfortune to wind up cursed. They had all been through so much only to still be fearful of everything around them. It was completely understandable that they couldn't have just told her and Molly this without risking far too much.

"The chances have to be absolutely astronomical for this to have happened," she remarked after some reflection. "That of all the places in the world when you emerged on Earth and everywhere you traveled that you ended up in Seabrook. That I drug Molly job hunting on just the right day to wind up at the pub or that Theo stopped at the store I worked at. Any little thing could have changed and we'd never know each other. What are the odds of that?"

There was a murmur of agreement. Something bothered Molly. She chewed her lip in thought, "So, this 'Aarin' place. It's right below us? Right now?"

Natalia nodded, "I like to start my tales from there with 'A hundred miles from anywhere on Earth' because, well, anything that happens in the center of the world is a hundred miles from the surface of the Earth."

Another thing nagged at Molly, "Are most people in Aarin Russian?"

Here, Natalia realized another detail they could divulge, “Oh right, that.” As she spoke both Willow and Molly heard her accent shift. It didn’t have any Russian to it at all. In fact, if they had to place their finger on any Earthly accent, they could gamble on Middle Easter, but that was still not right. “We’re not Russian. Or we don’t think we are.”

Theo spoke here, and not only did his accent change, but they noticed his grammar improve dramatically, “A few helpful friends in Okunevo told us we would blend in better if we chose an ethnicity. We arrived in Russia, so we went with Russian. But I looked a little dark. So we also chose Romanian and Arabian.” But he did admit, "Granya is probably the only one of us who has a natural Russian accent."

While it shouldn't have bothered Willow, being a simple thing of an accent that clearly matched the guise they formed on Earth, she did visibly frown as Theo lost his. "That's a shame. I happen to be quite fond of my Russian rogue," she muttered. "I guess that means I don't have to invest time in trying to learn another language, though."

Theo shifted uncomfortably, and so did the others, “Actually, yes. It would help if you did. And I am going to continue with my accent and slowly improve my grammar. So that my story matches to anyone I tell it to.” Theo grinned, “I can still be your Russian Rogue.”

It made sense that they would keep their guise, dedicated to the roles they had which was something Willow could completely appreciate with her own background. She returned his grin, and a part of her felt that even without the accent or broken grammar he still pulled off the role quite well. "Okay, deal," she said to him, giving his hand a squeeze.

 

[xrakkax]

Theo smiled, glad to know he, and they, could trust Willow. Molly chuckled, “Geuss we’re gonna learn Russian.” She finished off her tea just as Liam did, and he offered to take it for her. Molly hesitated before handing it to him. “Uh, not to be rude, but, who are you?”

Liam smiled, “I am a Mage, like them. As I told them last night I come from Aarin.” He told her, as he made his way and back from putting the dirty dishes in the dishwater basin. Liam sat down and kept his attention on her, knowing this wasn’t the end of her questions.

“So you just popped up out of the ground last night?” Molly asked.

“No, I’ve been here for some time now.” Liam said, and did not elaborate.

Theo frowned, “Liam is avoiding details.” That was making it hard to trust him. “But he has agreed to be kept underwatch, to earn trust.”

Molly didn’t like that. She fidgeted with the end of her hair, “Can’t he just. . .go?” She glanced at Liam with an apologetic smile, “Sorry, it’s just, we don’t know you.”

Liam understood her. They did want him to just ‘go’, but here Liam said, “I know. And I do want to be honest and transparent as you have all been, but I need some time. All I ask is I stay to help.” He thought maybe he could tell something a little personal, “In Aarin we heard the tale of Lyov breaking away with family from Mamon. That his family planned to leave Aarin, to the surface. The idea there was a land of hope planted a seed inside me. I couldn’t push it from my mind.” His accent matched the one Natalia and the others had shifted to, Molly noted as he talked, “My family didn’t believe me. But I knew in my heart I had to go. So I chance that they weren’t crazy. I called the gate of Earth and the ground revealed the door to me.” He said it looked like glowing symbols in a circle. Natalia and Jovan knew he told the truth. That is how they sent away Angela and Ciara. “I walked onto it and it teleported me to the surface.” Liam knew this wasn’t pouring out his agenda or why he wanted to stay and help, but he hoped it would put them at ease in some way. “It is truly an honor to be here and to assist Lyov and his family.”

Micha was uncomfortable too, just as Molly. Just as the rest. But unless they were going to kill him, or send him back to Aarin-- where he could come back to Earth anyway--they decided it was a good idea to keep an eye on him at least.

Jovan hated idle hands, “Then you will stay. For now.” He told Liam. “As a worker at the Old Bear.”

Liam exhaled, slightly disappointed, but agreed. Obeying was a good start towards trust. Besides, it would prove he meant to help, “Alright, I will.”

Molly squinted her eye at him. She’d keep a good, sharp watch on the man. Who knows what he was up to? It disturbed her to find out that he was almost naked when he found Granya. She was understandable, her transformation would have ruined her clothes. But him? Who knew? Thinking it over, Molly thought about the Old Bear and the patrons. Some of them came with animals too. Even Mr. Checkov had a tiny lizard. “Hey, just how many people have come from Aarin that we know?”

Micha answered, “Well, there’s Alassiel De Lavigne.”

Theo nodded, and added, “Also, there is Mrs. McQueen and her daughters. They are all Cat Sí. Caitlin is the same Cat Sí in the story of Haruki and the Wish.”

“Oh wow.” Molly blinked, “So, that story really happened? And Haruki and Ryuu, they are real too?”

Natalia nodded, “Haruki is still in Aarin. Ryuu had been one of the people who came up with us, but he was too reckless. And a huge flirt. Worse than Micha and Theo combined.” She shook her head. “The man couldn’t follow the rules, we had to ask him to leave.”

 

[Soliloquy]

The others were understandably uncertain about Liam, which Willow could appreciate. Still, he had done his part to save Granya, earning at least some respect from her. She would trust the others to keep an eye on him, and see what time would reveal to them at the Old Bear. Besides, an extra pair of hands might mean they could be rid of an unwanted set they currently had that had steadily grown on everyone's nerves.

The news of Mrs. McQueen and her daughters also being Almaeri was highly unexpected, or at least she would have said before she thought on it further. It explained how the two families knew each other and she shared Molly's excitement and wonder of how many others they were surrounded by. Everyone they had identified seemed to be the nicest of folk, in fact the only magical person she knew she'd ran into with ill intention had been Agnar.

"Worse than Theo and Micha combined? That doesn't seem possible," she remarked with a knowing smirk. It was probably a good thing they didn't have to deal with another casanova in their group, although it sounded like he was quite a handful before then.

"You'd think." Natalia chuckled, shaking her head as she got up. "I think that's all for now, if you don't mind. Ask any of us anything you like when you feel the need to, but I am taking a break."

They all agreed. They had taken quite a while and the day still had many hours ahead of them. There was plenty of time to learn more later. And besides, they weren't going to have forever in this campsite! They all still had things they wanted to do.

Willow nodded in agreement, releasing Theo's hand and rising up off the log she'd been perched on. "I'm going to check on Granya," she told him. "I won't stay long though, she'll need her rest." Molly would join her, both girls walking over to the large family tent and easing themselves through the flap. "Hey there, shchenok," she said softly, spotting Granya's messy head. "How is my little warrior feeling?"

 

[xrakkax]

Granya had been in and out of consciousness. Her mind overloaded with rest buzzed for stimulation, but her body shorted out often, dragging her bored, frustrated mind into the dreamworld. She caught snippets of what was going on. Enough to understand that the women who had become important to her knew about them. Granya managed to stay awake for the last part of the most recent conversation. She listened, thoughtfully running her fingers over Finn who lay across her belly, as they finished up their talk and the girls footfalls grew closer. When the flap opened and the women stepped through, she visibly brightened.

“Better.” Granya smiled.

They saw that the wounds had healed shut. The scars on her shoulder and hip were as distinctive as Agnar and Asa’s were, but the cut down from her brow to her cheek, thankfully, was only a shade or two lighter than the rest. Nothing makeup couldn’t cover in a pinch.

Molly and Willow took their spots comfortably beside Granya. The Southern Bell sat closer to the ten flap, to let Willow have a better position to talk. They had a special bond that only strengthened since last night. Molly only thought it right. Besides, Granya was crowded enough with her little white buddy. “Good old Finn keepin’ an eye on you, huh?”

“Da.” Granya nodded, looking down at him. Finn stared into her eyes with worry and affection.

"That's sweet." Molly smiled. Molly found it fascinating that familiars had these close relationships with them.

Granya drew her eyes over to them. First she said to Molly, "I hear you shot Agnar in mid-air. I wish I could have seen." She gave a light snort.

Molly chuckled, "Yeah, it was pretty awesome."

Then Granya looked at Willow, viridian eyes deep with meaning, "I heard you scream. I thought I was too late." She smiled, her eyes pricked with tears, "I was so glad you were safe."

 

[Soliloquy]

Willow's dark eyes traveled along the wounds that were visible on Granya, only momentarily surprised to find they were healing quickly. Something told her that it had to do with Natalia's skill with plants and herbs combined with Granya's unique condition. She had a feeling that like Hollywood tended to portray werewolves, she must have accelerated healing in order for her body to withstand a transformation so drastic. She listened to Molly and Granya, admittedly finding some relief in the fact that Agnar was not a threat to her.

"Not at all, honey," Willow reassured her, stroking her hair with a sincere smile. Her own eyes weren't the driest as she looked at her. "You were just in time and you saved me from that ass." It felt like this was a time that they could get away with swearing. "I don't think you'll ever know how thankful I am for it, shchenok."

Granya squeezed her hand gently, "And I am thankful for you." She swallowed, looking between them, "For the both of you. . .I had been worried you guys might think I was a monster." She frowned lightly.

Willow shook her head, giving her a squeeze in return. "Don't be ridiculous. You could never be a monster to us. We're family and we love you, Granya," she said sincerely. Even before the entire ordeal that had her on the edge of life she knew she had a strong connection to Granya; this had only strengthened it.

Although the weight of her situation would revisit her through life, and she'd need to learn to handle those dark moments alone, Granya greatly appreciated Willow reaching out to her. "I love you guys too." Granya said without hesitation. "I'm glad Дядя Theo met you. I'm glad you two came to the Old Bear." She smiled, a trace of hope and boldness in her eye, "My Тетя Willow and Тетя Mollyshka."

Molly, who had been politely listening and keeping it chill couldn't hold in her own tears now. She sniffed, "Aww gee."

While she had emptied the day prior, it seemed there plenty of tears today and the dam burst at Granya's words."It means the world to us, shchenok," she said through sniffles, clearing her throat and looking toward Molly. "But, we should probably let you rest up. Do you need us to get anything for you?"

Molly nodded to Willow's words, in agreement with all she said. The Texan couldn't speak right now herself. Too choked up to get a word out.

Granya nodded and gave Finna push with her finger, "He won't listen to me. He won't leave for food or water." She frowned. "He won't take from my food either. Says it's for me."

"What's he eat?" Molly hadn't really paid attention to that part.

"Anything we do. I stay away from sugars and processed stuff though." Granya didn't like a lot of these crazy science synthetic lab stuff. A twinkie wouldn't be a fit food for Finn.

That was an order they could fill, or at the very least pass on to someone else who might know his diet the best. "We can do that. You just get some rest, okay?"

 

[xrakkax]

Granya nodded, closing her aching eyes. Molly and Willow left the tent to do just that. The closest person to the tent had been Amalia. She decided to get it herself. She wanted a moment to see Granya awake anyway. Last night she and the other two in the tent barely got any rest just making sure she didn’t wake up alone in the dark, but the girl had slept all the way through.

Most of the rest of the day was spent doing many of the usual entertainments of the past week. Theo and Willow ended up hanging out with Micha and Molly, just talking about some of their past they hadn’t been able to talk about before.

Theo really did find a rock shaped like Micha’s head. It was Micha disguised as a rock to jump-scare Theo. Kid logic to still use your own face. But unfortunately, Theo thought it was neat enough to try to pluck from the ground. When he yanked him Micha screamed, which frightened little Theo, who screamed. They were stunned at each other for a few seconds, just shrieking in fright until Theo fell back and ran away. So, Micha got half of what he wanted.

Some days Mamon allowed the children to run the grass in a nearby field. Micha liked to climb trees on the edge. On those days Theo enjoyed sneaking to a spot where he could hear the Harpies echo. They lived in rooks they made along the rocky shores, to kill people who they lured with their voices. But echoes did nothing to you. It had to be direct.

Micha helped prepare the grubs for the dinners. Ended up being he had a talent for cooking. Micha would sneak herbs and salt to the village so they could have a little more taste than squishy, rubbery bugs. Amalia helped from time to time and learned from her brother.

They weren’t allowed to dance. Mamon hated seeing them dance. But, Theo, in the dead of night when he was sure Mamon had gone to the next village in his territory, would go down to the moss caves to dance with others who were willing to risk it.

Molly could tell they were sharing all the “happier” memories. While she was curious about the fullness of the truth, she felt better to hear Micha and Theo say something more than just comments on the experiences Willow and Molly had told them about.

“I guess I know why you didn’t know about the Lion King, Theo.” Molly chuckled. “You really did live ‘under a rock’, didn’t you?”

Theo laughed, “Da! I remember that.”

When night came, dinner followed. Theo pardoned himself for a short time before the campfire gathering. There were a couple more questions Molly and Willow had, but most people were tired and needed sleep. So they shuffled off earlier than usual. All except Theo, who held Willow’s hand, “Come with me.” He grinned.

The Russian Rogue didn’t say a word of where they were going. Willow was, once again, blindfolded. They walked for some time. Theo’s hands kept her steady and her footing sure. When they stopped, Willow felt an odd, warm dampness float to her face. Finally, he slipped the cloth from her to reveal a different wellspring. This one steamed. She swore she saw a bubble or two. Down by the rocks lay a fresh change of clothes, a familiar bottle of wine, and her favorite chocolates.

 

[Soliloquy]

Granya and Finn were tended to, leaving the girls to enjoy their afternoon, a whole new side to the family. To Willow at least, it felt like a heavy curtain was lifted and she swore they all seemed happier to be able to talk freely. Even if the memories weren't always the best ones, surely it felt good to say them aloud. She enjoyed hearing of their childhood, glad that both fate had brought them together and also that their own children would not have to live in such a world. They'd made it and could see the next generation flourish together.

Having slept through the morning the day sped by, putting them one day closer to being home. Willow had noticed Theo's brief absence, only able to assume he had to be up to no good, a thought that was only confirmed when she was blindfolded. "I think I'm going to start randomly blindfolding you," she murmured as he navigated her through the wood, unable to keep from grinning at his love for surprises. This was one she was quickly fond of though, gasping to see the quaint spring and everything that he had prepared. Spinning about, she tugged him in for a deep kiss. "You're too perfect you know," she told him, her thumb reaching up and brushing his cheek above his stubble.

She could have stayed in his arms for the whole night, but the warm spring was calling to her, to the point she wouldn't even be asking why they hadn't been there earlier. Pulling herself away, she caught sight of the clothes waiting for them, glancing up at him with a perked brow. "Someone forgot the swimsuits, huh?" she asked with a very accusatory face.

"Can't forget what you purposefully left behind," Theo smirked, walking down with her.

"I feel in love with the devil who has a perfect balance of romance and perverse," she chuckled, coming to the waters edge before slipping off her own clothes. The chill evening air hit her bare skin, encouraging her to piled her clothes quickly and slip into the welcoming waters. Dipping so the water came up to her shoulders, she let her head roll back on a concaved rock at the waters edge, letting out a soft groan of appreciation. This was even better than running water.

 

[xrakkax]

Theo followed her lead. Bandit flopped out of the pocket of his jacket. She peered around at the cool, dark night. Eyes bright with eagerness. The ferret slipped through the trees for a good hunt. The rest of Theo’s clothes held no such furry surprises. They were dropped next to Willows. Then it was in the spring they went!

“Woo!” Theo jumped, curled his body tight, and plunged into the deeper end. Hot water splashed on the lanterns lighting the natural pool. He came up to the surface with a big smile. The long, jet black hair had been trimmed to just above his shoulders. Theo wasn’t sure he would buzz it just yet. Willow's finger through his tresses was reason enough.

A lot of things had improved in his life since he met Willow. Theo reflected on this. The reason he had wanted to spend this twilight with her. It had been a topic he had to avoid before today. It came with a decision he knew he’d never make unless Willow could read them like the open book they now were for her. Micha being himself made it difficult for Theo, but this time around he was glad for that food snob.

Theo swam over to Willow as she relaxed. He too decided to lean his head back and gaze at the stars. “Stars here are enthralling.” Theo murmured. He decided not to say that ‘stars’ in Aarin were really signs that a meteor shower was imminent. Death could find you soon after. Theo looked at Willow, “But nothing as enthralling as you, Willow.” He cupped her cheek, “You have been patient with me. Very patient. I have had to be for the sake of my family, but I am not going to be patient anymore.” Theo drew her closer, “Willow, the love of my life.” He murmured, “Willow, my sweet, loving woman.” Theo kissed her lips gently. “Will you marry me?”

 

[Soliloquy]

The warm water was a heaven-sent to her sore muscles, closing her eyes and listening to the sounds of the forest around them. She was getting quite accustomed to the ambiance of the evening creatures and thought she was going to miss it back in the city. Her peace and quiet didn't last long once her goof of a man decided he needed to cannonball himself in, the wave making it's way to her quickly enough. Opening her eyes, she tried to give him a scowl but it was short lived as she watched him wade toward her.

Willow had been about to mention that the relaxing sensation made her want to get a hot tub at some point when he spoke, her gaze watching the stars for a moment before his touch drew her attention to him. He was so ridiculously perfect and was saying the most beautiful things; she felt as if she might melt in his hold. As he closed the gap her heart quickened, seeming to know his words before they even formed. Her eyes flicked about his face as he peppered her with the most endearing compliments, her eyes closing as his lips found hers, only to hear his proposal.

Now, while Molly had all but beaten off Micha's attempts to get her to marry him, Willow couldn't find it in her to use the same reasoning against him. It might have been eight months since they met but it had felt like a life time. She'd found herself thinking more and more often of what their lives together would be like, comfortable now mentioning the idea of children with him. They just felt right for each other and she knew that she'd never been happier in her life.

Opening her eyes, she placed one wet hand on his cheek, her thumb stroking it as she dove into those welcoming green eyes of his, a soft smile across her lips. There was no doubt in her mind that their life wouldn't be easy, but it was what she wanted. "Of course,'" she whispered, her hand to the back of his head as she found his lips again, deepening the kiss as she pressed her body against his. Her legs wrapped about his waist as she murmured against his lips, "Yes! I love you so much, yes."

 

[xrakkax]

Overjoyed, Theo expressed his delight that night with Willow in the hotspring. When they were well and satisfied Theo showed her he had set up a place to sleep where they could see the stars until they drifted off in each other's embrace. Bandit ended up going to sleep on them. By morning she was tangled up in Dream Warrior Willow’s limbs, completely asleep despite being tossed about like salad. The usual shallow, faint breathing meant she still lived. For breakfast, Theo made a mix-oatmeal with raspberries. They picked the berries together.

Theo spent most of the day with Willow to enjoy some alone time in celebration of their new chapter in life. They swam again, they hiked to a pretty view of a meadow, and they watched a herd of deer quietly slip through the trees like a whisper.

Lunch came and went. Theo could sense the day wane and the time to let the family know about their decision come upon them. Taking Willow’s hand, he walked with her back to camp where they found Micha and Molly lounging with Bear beside Granya. She had been well enough to interact. Her wounds were all but old scars now.

“Hm?” Granya turned her head, listening. Bear perked his ears. Just as Granya smiled and stood up, Bear wagged his tail.

The others looked at her in question, but when they saw Willow and Theo come through the treeline, they had their answer. Granya smiled and waved at them.

“Ah! Shchenok, so glad you’re awake!” Theo said, his arms wide to scoop her into a bone-crushing hug.

Granya wheezed, “Da, me too.” She tried to chuckle with what little air she had. When he let her go Granya inhaled, “Ah, Дядя! You hug too hard!” She popped his arm with a gentle fist, not unkindly.

Willow lit up to see Granya out and about, relieved to find just how quickly she was healing. All that healing was going to be put to test by the prowess of the loving uncle. "Hey, easy on her!" she scolded Theo as well, slipping an arm protectively about Granya's shoulders. "She's already dealt with one bear this week, don't need you going brute on her."

Theo pressed a hand to his heart in mock offense. Granya stuck her tongue out at him and returned the embrace with a smug smile. Right then Theo saw how Granya would try to win future arguments. Well, if this was what he had to endure, Theo wouldn’t trade it for anything.

At this moment Theo knew it was time. He took Willows free hand and walked to the center by the campfire. “We have something to say.” Theo called to get their attention. He smiled at Willow and then looked at all of them. Molly was holding a hand to her mouth. Her face turned blue keeping her words inside. Micha rubbed her shoulders to show his support for not speaking right now, knowing how excited she’s been. He stood there with her, grinning. The others were a little less sure what was going to be said. Theo put their puzzlement. “Willow has accepted my proposal of marr--”

“Woo!” Molly hollered, unable to keep it in anymore.

The family all gasped in delight, getting up to come to them and share in the merriment. Everyone’s chuckles and praises mixing in with each other. Granya, delighted, said, “Ah! So happy!” She already felt Willow as an Aunt. Now it would be official! As the others gathered, Granya let go to make room for people to hug and shake hands.

Micha gave Theo a hearty pat on the shoulder, “Ah! You lucky bastard! So happy for you!”

Molly popped her heels and excitedly grabbed Willow's hands, squealing happily over the news, “Oh I knew it! I said I had a feeling, I told Micha I thought this was going to happen!”

The atmosphere got slightly awkward when they found Liam shaking Theo and Willows hands, just as happy and excited as them, blending into their group, and looking between them all as if it was natural for him to join in as well. Jovan took this as an attempt to get chummy, which didn’t seem to please the older man. Liam seemed to catch on to the mood shift and sheepishly backed out of the family moment.

Natalia asked in curiosity, "What kind of wedding will you do?"

Molly had known what Willow always envisioned. Both of them had that talk once in a while. But the idea that these people may have an entirely different way to marry came as a sudden thought of interest. She asked, "What do you guys do?"

They had no answer to satisfy, "We don't have those traditions, really. Mamon made pairings. But it was only for the sake of healthy breeding." Natalia explained. "But here on Earth, there is such a variety. So I was curious."

Mamon. The creature demanding to be worshiped as a god. Micha and Theo told the girls at some point that Molly had drawn him. He was the creature she sketched. The one with the elk-like body and creepy torso head. The family learned human traditions when they arrived on Earth. 'Marriage' and the ceremony with it fascinated and inspired them.

 

[Soliloquy]

Their evening in each other's arms couldn't have been more perfect. Locked in each other's arms as they wordlessly expressed their love to the other, only to lay under the stars sipping sweet wine and feeding the other the squares of chocolate. Willow would have thought the rest of the world had vanished and left them to exist indefinitely at the spring. That same sense of peace washed over them both well into the next day, basking in the thought of what their life together would bring.

Their time to return to camp had come and with it the joy of their announcement. She happily let Theo make the announcement, well as much as he could get out before Molly exploded. Chuckling, she tugged her dear friend into a tight embrace, prepared for a thorough session of girling out over this all. Her own thoughts went back to their first date back in October and Molly's vision of a wedding. No doubt she'd love to rub that into them both. After everyone had their chance to give their congratulations and the couple was allowed to breathe freely.

"Oh I don't know," she admitted to Natalia's question. Even if she had talked and plotted on her own, it only felt fair that Theo had some say in what happened in such a ceremony. He might not have had the idea of what a wedding would be implanted from a young age, but she wasn't going to insist the day be forged directly around her own thoughts. "I don't think I'd like anything that is too fancy. That just feels like a big money sink when you can celebrate for much less and put that money toward something sensible...or an overpriced honeymoon."

Willow did share some of her own preferences though, just to give Natalia an answer. She'd always wanted to have a wedding outdoors, although she feared with her luck rain would ruin it all. She wanted it to be bright, natural and had a peculiar desire to be barefoot. The last part had been frowned upon by friends when she was a child and dreaming of marriage - why wouldn't she want beautiful shoes in a beautiful dress? Still, talk of paper lanterns in trees and draped white silk could wait until they'd decided on more important matters, such as a date to start with.

"But I think we can figure something out, together," she smiled, finding Theo's hand and giving it a good squeeze. She was quite pleased with the fact that she'd saved what she did now, only planning to continue adding to it. After all, this meant they'd be looking for a place to live together, or so she imagined.

 

[xrakkax]

The answer would suffice. Although they were still interested in what the couple might do. Especially Molly, who took one side of Willow as they sat to wait for the coming feast in celebration of the good news, “You have to tell me everything when we get a moment.” She grinned. Though they all were settling down, it was clear conversation was not over between them and the family.

Micha and Amalia brought out the food they meant to have for the night before they left. It had been a slow process, but a few of Willow and Molly’s taste in cuisine began to wiggle into their kitchens. They had ribs, corn, potatoes, and salad. Dessert ended up being strawberry shortcake. Jovan allowed these for their camping trip.

They all chatted about what they hoped for the future. Of all the talk, though, Molly said, “Theo are you finally gonna have Willow in your house or what?”

Theo chuckled, “Eh, I want to. But our house is kind of small for starting a family. The house across the street is on sale.” He looked to his fiance, “It’s a nice one, what do you think?”

 

[Soliloquy]

Seated between Theo and Molly, Willow wouldn't have expected the topic to drop quickly at all. She wanted a chance to talk a lot of things over with Theo before she went stamping her own whims all over and leaving him with no choice. And who knew, maybe she'd pick up a few ideas in the coming months, especially if she ended up going to a family wedding.

Seeing some of their own 'Americanized' dishes added to the table was a joyful sight. It felt like a visual representation of their lives melting together, even if his own culture was one he had adopted as well. She was enjoying the sweetest corn of her life when Molly popped a question right out of her mind, causing Willow to turn to Theo with shared interest. Would marriage be what it took for her to finally spend a night at his house?

The talk of buying a house was unexpected and it showed on Willow's face, swallowing down her bite and eyeing him carefully. "You're serious?" A million questions of uncertainty had buzzed through her head, mostly concerns around cost, but also some around how quickly she could get out of the neglected apartment she'd sold her soul to years prior. "We're just going to up and buy a house?"

"Da." Theo shrugged as if it was simple. "We panic-stashed a whole lot of money when we got here. It was before we understood how the economy worked and after we got the pub up." He told her. " We will be able to buy a house."

They had, in fact, a lot of these panic moments. Coming to Earth meant learning things that Molly and Willow knew from infancy. How toilets worked, how to drive, what it meant to go into a store and see something you needed, and it was there for you to buy. They learned about electricity, plumbing, and the microwave. They loved it until Micha found that the microwave did strange things to the food to make it taste funny sometimes. The true joy of the Earthly bathroom commodities had been toilet paper.

Only he could make a big decision seem logical and simple, although that offered her a sense of reassurance. If he said they'd be fine, then she trusted that they would be fine. Besides, it would allow him to stay close to Granya and Lyov while still giving them their own space to grow. "Well, I guess we're buying a house then," she said, chuckling at the thought.

 

[xrakkax]

"Micha, why don't we get a house?" Molly prodded him.

"Marry me," Micha said in an obvious, matter of fact way. "And I will get you a house."

"Ask me the right way and I will." Molly pursed her lips.

Micha laughed, "What way is the 'right way'?"

While they ping-ponged who knew what the other meant, and how could 'someone' not think that part through, Theo chuckled and sipped his kvas. He was glad Willow wouldn't be as obtuse. Or he hoped. There were haunting tales of 'Bridezillas'. Even women who were as sweet as Willow became them. Theo would trust he wasn't going into a storm of crazy. Really, he just wanted to marry her.

Theo looked at Willow and smiled. Whatever the 'right way' was, whether he did it right or not, he was glad he had her. "When you want to marry, Красивый?"

 

[Soliloquy]

Willow found the incessant banter between Micha and Molly to be quite endearing. They were truly perfect for each other, although she didn't imagine they'd actually marry soon. The two of them were both far too stubborn to cave so easily, but in due time it'd happen, no doubt.

She was torn away from their back and forth to face Theo with yet another question. "Lord, I don't know," she shrugged, although a part of her soul argued that no date would be soon enough. "Wouldn't we want to plan a date out so people could come?" Even as she asked that, she couldn't think of anyone she'd want to join them on such a precious day that wasn't already in present company. Her own family was teetering on the edge of her thoughts, though she would have preferred not to add potential drama to a day that was supposed to be about them.

Theo smiled wide, "Oh Da. I will make a list!" He had in mind all the people who he knew would be as joyful as they were, who had also come up from Aarin for a new life. Alassiel and the McQueen family were some. Then there were a few people at the pub such as Mr. Chekov. "Good idea. We should make the date far enough in the future to make sure they can come." But not so far that it felt too far. "Ah, how about June 8th?" That had been the day he first met Willow, before he went running off to another Moon-Fishing trip.

A solid year of an engagement sounded perfect to her. That meant there would be plenty of time to plan and invite people they wanted to share their lives with and would still be able to enjoy time together in a house of their own. She was quite pleased they were in the twenty-first century and cohabiting was accepted, for the most part. "June 8th it is," she agreed, a tingle of excitement making her shoulders bob for a second, enjoying how official it sounded. "I wager by then Micha will almost have properly proposed to Molly." The jest was made before she hid her smirk behind a cup of kvas.

 

[xrakkax]

Theo laughed, “Da, I think you right!”

It was not lost on Micha, who feigned insult and began a hearty back and forth between him and Theo. Molly finally took her lover aside to bring him some peace, though she still murmured she’d be waiting for that proposal.

The rest of their time at camp was quite relaxing. The road trip home felt like walking through a portal back to their lives, but they were different people now. The trip had been a transformation for more than Granya. They started it wrapped in the unknown of their secrets and came back one more step to that bright future.

Aside from the unpacking of the van, the reorganizing of their stuff, and people parting, they did have one issue to deal with still. Liam. The ivory man found himself in the position of being the third wheel at times. In a way, taking liberties usually reserved for people already familiar and close, like old friends. It was as if he had to remind himself that they looked at him as a stranger. Liam took no personal insult. He accepted being brushed off or asked to scoot away with grace and understanding.

Jovan especially needed more than words to put him at ease. For one, Liam didn’t have a home. He had no documents, no records, and-- hell, he didn’t even have clothes when he walked up! They’d have to help him integrate. To become American like them. He’d need a place to stay. And, though it was necessary, they’d have to use Almaeri to keep suspicion off by fabricating all of these essential elements.

However, the biggest issue was where to put Liam. They did not like the options available to them. Right away Amalia and the rest didn’t want him under the same roof as Granya, although that house had a living room big enough to accommodate a guest. But that left Jovan and Natalia’s tiny yacht and the two-room apartments over the Old Bear. Liam could squeeze in with Amalia. There was also the basement, but they rather Liam not access their garden. They were discussing the problems that would occur when Liam said he understood their concern and could use the stage at night. Then, before breakfast and work, he could just roll up his bed and stick it in a corner. Amalia decided that would be best. She would feel better to have Avril keep an eye on him in the night anyway. Once they settled that, they discussed getting Liam some clothes and toiletries. Amalia volunteered to take Liam, who insisted he would like to get that done as soon as they arrived at the Old Bear. Both Amalia and Liam went from the van to an old Pontiac in the back. They left just as Mrs. Caitlin McQueen and Alassiel drove up to the Old Bear with Lyov in tow.

Lyov wept to hear the news and embraced Willow. Then he hugged Molly, which Micha teased meant his proposal would be accepted at some point, and to which Molly told Micha she won’t do a damn thing until he asked her romantically. Sometimes you gotta fight for the girly chick stuff you shunned when you were younger.

Saturday night they had a good feast with the whole family and their friends. Alassiel and the McQueen family were overjoyed that Willow and Molly were staying. They answered some of the girls’ questions about themselves.

The McQueen family began with Caitlin leaving the warlord with her friend, Lady Gweneth the water nymph, and bumping into a male púca. Now a púca, being a kind of fairy, could shape-shift. And this one had the peculiar skill of making clones of himself. He had been having a merry time tricking villagers and mythic beasts alike by seemingly being in two places at once and confusing everyone, when along came Caitlin looking as beautiful as she was, and as vain as it may seem, that about did it for the púca. He introduced himself as Cillian. Caitlin was not smitten at first. To mate with a púca meant her sons would be abnormal. A female Cat Sí always gave birth to female Cat Sí’s. But the sons they have depended on their mate. They’d be a strange blend of her and him, both in ability and in appearance. Sometimes they were still-born. When Caitlin did pair up with Cillian she had three still-born, pure white, sons, and two stillborns black as night. None were both black and white like her and her girls. One son lived. But by the time Caitlin got these words out of her mouth she teared up and could no longer speak. None of the Russian family knew much about him. Not even his real name. And out of respect to their mother, the girls only spoke of him by his nickname that roughly translated to ‘Peanut’. All the family knew was that there had been a big fight and words said that couldn’t be taken back. It spelled doom for the family. Their little Peanut stormed off. Cillian followed to coax his son back, and both never returned.

To take the edge off the moment the questions shifted to Alassiel. Apparently Alassiel was the little girl in the story of Haruki and the Sea Maid. She had been so young at the time, most of the experience at the Temple was a blur. But she remembered Haruki, the kelpie who wanted her as their servant and being raised to fulfill the role. Drowned Maids had to sing well, they needed to be pretty, they had to have a gentle, submissive nature, they needed to be able to play any musical instrument the kelpie wanted, and have a talent for picking up new skills if ever the kelpie desired their Maiden to learn. Haruki met Alassiel while she was practicing the harp. About age ten or so. After living with the Selkies on the Sapphire shores, she met Ryuu who was traveling with Lyov and the others to the surface. Ryuu, a charmer, convinced her to come with them. When they got to the surface of Earth Alassiel and Ryuu broke up. He was far too flirty with everyone and she felt insecure, and he refused to change, demanding she believe him. But he got off his high horse when he was caught cheating. Alassiel left him, got into modeling, and then took a job as an escort of wealthy people to explore the world.

All these tales fascinated Molly. It felt like delving into a fantasy book. And she was a part of it! And although she wondered what Liam would have added to the conversation, she was glad they hadn’t seen a peek of him since he left with Amalia and came back with his things, using the stairs on the outside of the building to Amalia’s room. While Molly agreed with Willow that he had done a good and honorable thing, she did reserve caution. They still didn’t know him. Molly meant to ask if Alassiel or the McQueen family knew him when time caught up. It had grown late. Alassiel left with the McQueen’s as soon as they made their farewells. They were going to stay for a while and planned on visiting in-between gigs around town a few times before heading to Ireland. For now, they said good night. Among the others who parted were Jovan, Natalia, Lyov, and Granya. Theo drove Willow home.

Liam held no grudge for being separated from their merriment, saying he knew they’d want space, and besides, he could spend some time getting information on immigration upstairs. Avril stayed with him in Amalia's room. But as soon as Alassiel and the McQueen family left, Liam stayed true to his word and slept on the stage Saturday night. Avril did not stray far.

Sunday, being a half day, helped slowly bring back the blood flow of normality to the family. Of course, with some differences. One being Liam at the table in the morning. He did his best not to get in the way of their usual routine. Though he was new he fell into step without much trouble. A quick learner. Theo had taken the job of teaching Liam since he was free for Sunday, just in case at any time things turned sour and Liam turned out to be a psycho killer. But soon Theo felt confident to allow Liam to work his section without peering over his shoulder.

Theo relaxed more, getting into the groove of his section, passingly saying hello to his lady love, and found the day had another treat in store for him. Molly sat down two people in his section an hour or two before closing. One of them he recalled right away. D’Lante Jackson, the kind man who warned Theo about Hunters on the yacht. Theo walked over as the companion, an old man, pulled out unique jugs that he handed to D’Lante. They were full of clear liquid and the front had a blueprinted image of a humble woman in robes with both her palms up in an inviting manner. Theo arrived just as he heard D’Lante thank the elder for the gift and missed the words inscribed beneath her figure.

“D’Lante!” Theo greeted warmly.

Bright with happy surprise, D’Lante shook Theo’s hand, “Ah, Dr. Al-Zakhar! Good to see you.” He chuckled, “Not enough sick kids to keep you in the hospital? That’s probably the best kind of reason not to go to work in the clinic.”

“Oh, ha ha.” Theo nodded, seeing his point and curiosity. “Family business. Days off are no days off. Please, here call me Theo.” He turned to the friend, “And who is this?”

D’Lante pat his heart in regret for not introducing his friend, “This is Professor De Lafayette. My old philosophy teacher. He just came off the plane from traveling here from Lourdes, in France.”

Theo raised his brows in delighted wonder, “Is that so?”

Prof. Lafayette nodded, and spoke in a heavy French accent, “I keep telling D’Lante he needs to come visit me too, but his work keeps him here.” As he talked he looked around. Catching sight of his interest, he got up, “Excuse me, I must use the bathroom.”

They held no ill will for the departure. Theo resumed his interaction, “What you work?”

“Oh I work in charities, communities, that kind of thing. A lot of my time has been spent in Seabrooke, so I just decided to rent here. I’m not too far, actually. You know the ‘Villas By the Bay’ down the street? I’m bunking there for now.”

“Wonderful!” Theo grinned. “We hang out sometime then, eh?”

“Sounds good.” D’Lante smiled. “How have you been?”

“Very well, just got engaged!” Theo beamed.

D’Lante inhaled with praise, “Oh, that’s great! Send my congratulations to Miss Crosse.” After all, she had to have been the one he referred to.

“Will do!” Theo agreed readily.

Just then Prof. De Lafayette came back. The two welcomed him. Theo wrote down their orders once they had time to think it over. They got their food in a timely manner and left Theo a hefty tip.

At the end of Sunday hours, they closed up shop. Liam set himself up with a cushion in the corner of the stage, near his things. Amalia left Avril to watch him while she took a shower. Jovan decided to do some fishing off of his yacht. Both to relax and to cook for when he has dinner with his daughter. Micha and Molly were eager to spend time with Theo and Willow, as always, and even more now that a wedding was underway.

The couples decided to hang out in the closed pub, on the lounge chairs and recliners by the fire. Molly had pulled out her phone to look over some dress ideas with Willow. Micha and Theo talked about what they could do to contribute to the wedding, besides money. That would be handled. The family had carefully stashed away rolls of Benjamins in case of an emergency. They could dip into the savings without worry.

Micha insisted he oversaw the catering, or at least be apart of choosing who caters. Molly sighed, rolling her eyes, “Micha, babe, you can’t have ultimate control. Stars, they do this for a living, the food will be fine.”

“No, only best. When is day you take for checking places?” Micha leaned over to see her phone. When he saw the date read ‘April 29th’, he sighed. “Ugh, during Moon-Fishing.” He couldn’t interrogate any of the potential caterers if he was stuck on a boat at sea. “Mollyshka, change the day.” He prodded her with a finger.

“No, and besides, it’s up to Willow.” Molly smiled smugly.

 

[Soliloquy]

While there was no doubt that Willow was looking forward to sharing nuptials with her beloved, it felt as if Molly was more excited to plan everything than she was. Of course, a year in wedding planning was more like a few months, especially since they'd picked a date that was the height of the season. Regardless, Willow would have preferred to spend the first couple of months focusing on them moving in together before worrying a bout what color bridesmaid dresses would be, who would wear them, and arguing if a garter was a worthy enough tradition or just a sign of weird misogynistic tendencies.

Micha's attempts to insert himself in his area of expertise were met with a chuckle, hearing it much less than poor Molly needed to. Still, this opened up a possibility to talk about something more interesting than napkin designs. "Moon-Fishing, well that's too bad," she said with a hint of dramatics to it. "If only there was a reason that Molly and I wouldn't be able to meet with the caters. Something that would make us have to reschedule..." She glanced over at Theo, her lips pursed in amusement.

The implication was clear, and Theo hummed thoughtfully, "Oh, oh wait, I think I know something."

Molly snorted, "Oh yeah? What?" She played along.

But it was Micha who said hastily, "You can come now. Of course, let's take those days off." He nodded, already fighting Molly to put it in her phone. She wiggled it from him, laughing as she impishly tapped away to do it herself.

Theo chuckled, "Then it is settled. We get Granya gift for Moon-Fishing and then we go on boat."

A pleased look crossed Willow's face and she also updated the calendar she shared with Theo. "Moon-Fishing," she grinned in satisfaction, currently topping the list of things she'd like to do above picking out a wedding dress. If it weren't for wanting him to have the experience she might have just said to hell with an entire ceremony just so long as she was married to him. "At least I don't have to worry about any bears at sea," she said with dry sarcasm.

 

[xrakkax]

“Oh don’t jinx it.” Molly chuckled.

“Da.” Theo nodded, teasing about Willow’s comment before their trip. However, unless Agnar suddenly decides to take a trip south it was one fear Willow didn’t have to think about. The couples eventually moved on to other topics.

The days leading up to the Moon-Fishing had a couple of interesting events. For one, Michas birthday. They had a big celebration in the pub. Molly still refused to accept his proposal just yet, but she gave him a different kind of present. Micha still looked forward to Molly telling him ‘yes’, but he enjoyed what he got. Next, they got little gifts for Granya. Micha and Molly got a pack of ‘pup-peroni’ sticks. It was still a little strange for Molly to know Granya ate and enjoyed these stinky treats. Apparently that day at Spring Olympics she had been at a loss for where her pig ear had gone. The last incident wasn’t fun at all for anyone. Theo lost another child to the mystery illness. He knew a Mage had to do with it. But they were keeping their tracks covered well. Theo had been losing his heart and patience. Thankfully Willow was a good support.

Saturday April 28th, 2018​

Around noon the family gathered at the docks. Each of them brought a bag for the two-night stay at sea. Natalia was the only one not coming this time. Work had demanded her attention. Being such a small vet clinic meant her absence occasionally. This made it harder on Amalia. Thankfully Molly and Willow would be coming this time.

Micha and Molly were already on board when Theo drove up with Willow, Granya, and Lyov. As they walked down the ramp to the yacht Granya hung on Willow’s arm. She hated transformation nights. They were disorienting. She couldn’t tell who was familiar. Everything frightened her. This caused her to react in that fear. So far only Finn was able to be on the boat. They guessed it had to do with him being a raven. Wolves and ravens had a long, natural history of symbiotic relationships.

Once onboard Jovan set sail. The dingy trailed them, attached by a chain. They traveled far enough from shore to blend into the background of the sea, but close enough to see the buildings in the distance. All the way to when they weighed anchor Granya tucked herself in a corner on the long cushioned dinner bench, in the cabin. She got seasick on boats. Natalia’s medicines were helpful. Still, she felt better inside with Finn on her shoulder. It normally got better by the next day. Just a few hours of a steady stomach before the night of the full moon was all she got as a reprieve.

Theo and the others normally gave her space at this time. Jovan took up a book near the prow of the ship. Amalia sunbathed on the roof. Usually, she had Avril, but this time the boa stayed to keep an eye on Liam. Micha and Molly hung out with Theo and Willow on top deck, on some cushions for lounging.

Molly frowned lightly, looking at the door to the cabin, “So Granya just sits there, alone?”

“Well, she has Finn.” Theo pointed out, dropping the pretense of his Russian out at sea. There was too much anyone could catch them doing that an accent wouldn’t matter, “But yeah, she doesn’t like people looking at her when she’s like this. It makes her feel self-conscious and brings up her other insecurities.” The one who held them back. It was what came to her mind sometimes. Though she tried to keep her chin up it wasn’t easy. And now that she sat on a wobbly boat she couldn’t take people around.

“Will she eat with us?” Molly asked.

“She doesn’t eat during this time,” Micha said. “She eats afterward.”

Willow sat at Theo's side, knees held to her chest as she felt the gentle rock of the boat beneath them. It was hard for her to just stay in place, especially after hearing that. "No wonder you get her a gift," she murmured, looking at the cabin thoughtfully. After a moment, she tugged her phone out of her pocket, leaning into Theo as she thumbed around on it for a bit, soon sending a text to Granya with an attached image of a kitten clinging to a branch for it's life, bottom legs dangling with the message of 'hang in there!' on the image. Her text read 'here if you need anything, Shchenok!'

Theo saw over her shoulder and gave Willow a kiss on her forehead, rubbing her arm. Not too long after Willow heard a Bing! The only thing sent was an emoji of a sad wolf, accompanied by a slight smile and a thumbs up.

The following day Granya managed to come out after they ate their lunch. It was not easy for her to be around food at this time. It only added to her nausea and headache. But for a few hours, she happily distracted herself with Willow, Molly, and the others. They were careful not to mention what was coming that night. To pass the time they played games. Phase Ten, chess, and they watched a short movie on a projector screen. All the while she tucked herself between Theo and Willow.

As night fell Granya grew agitated. She felt uncomfortable and kept glancing up. The moon wouldn’t be far behind. Jovan went to check the dials and charts for the boat, just in case. They didn’t want a repeat of the year the engine stalled. They used Almaeri to fix it, but it had been frightening to know they were out at sea without a way to run from a raging wolf who heard and smelled them due to an ill wind. When that was done he and the boys set up the dingy. Then, the men went below deck.

Next, the females of the family helped steady the dingy while Granya undressed, wrapped herself with a blanket that she’d stow when the transformation began and stepped into the boat. A clear plastic tub for post-transformation comforts was tucked beneath the bench she sat on. Granya cast her eyes away in embarrassment, her honey brown curls, usually tucked into her jacket, flowed down around her to her hips. Then they gave it a push and she began to drift away. Thanks to the chain she wouldn’t be lost to them. Finn perched on her shoulder.

The sea stirred and swirled. Mist rose up. It thickened the air until they could only see a vague silhouette of Granya through the steam. The veil spread a half mile all around them, deterring passersby and giving them an assurance that wolf Granya would not spy them. Amalia parted to take a bathroom break. Molly and Willow were asked to keep an eye on what was happening. If a wave hit or someone shot at Granya, or if Granya jumped for whatever reason, they’d need to know.

Once Amalia left Molly perked, “Do you hear that?”

It started out faint. A hum over the waters. Then they heard it more clearly, all around them, like a mystical song of the sea. Someone, or something, was singing. It filled them with a strange, eerie calm. But the aftertaste left a sense of dread on their tongue.




Willow and Molly could still see the surface of the water from where they stood. They saw a shadow slip in and around, just beneath the skin of the ocean. Willow, the master horseman, rightfully thought the shape looked like some kind of equine beast.

“Kellsy.” Molly swallowed, watching the kelpie’s face bob to the surface and meld away into the dark depths.

Kelpies were strange fairy folk. They lived in almost any body of water. They took on the shape most necessary to their situation. Most believed that despite their variety, they were a fairy horse. The only way to know for sure was to ask them, and they’d never tell. Not the truth anyway. Their most common tale was to prance around on land until an unsuspecting human thought to try to ride them. They’d play coy for a bit, maybe, but in the end they did let them ride. Then they would dash into the deep to drown the Men magically stuck to their backs. The only way to escape being a command, but using their true name. A fairy’s name was their very being. To have their name meant to have mastery over them. But to get a fairy’s name you had to play their games. They hated losing. Not so much because they would be subject to your influence, but that they ‘lost’ at all, to anyone who they thought were worthless. And just about all fairies believed all humans were scum.

Kellsy sang her alluring song. Harpies and Sirens were not the only creatures with a voice to draw your attention. Molly and Willow somehow saw Kellsy’s face. So close. And so pretty. Her mouth moved and they heard the song, but it was as if they couldn’t think. Their heads were fuzzy. And all they thought was how lovely Kellsy’s face was and what it would be like to kiss her, and maybe if she let them, what it would feel like to ride the ocean like the lands--

“Kellsy, you cyka, back off!” Amalia snapped. She had just returned from the restroom.

Molly and Willow found themselves gripping the side of the yacht when moments before they were standing a good three or four feet from it. Willow had one foot in the sea, as if she was ready to jump inside. Kellsy’s pretty face, once indeed beautiful, twisted into a grotesque snarled. That pink glow vanished into a pale green. Her flesh appeared like a frog's. Her mouth stretched to reveal long, needle teeth. The tongue coiled back. Long, slick, gummy, and black. Gurgling laughter erupted from her throat as loud as if she had shrieked at them.

“Oh fuck!” Molly yelped and fell backward onto her butt. She grabbed Willow instinctively and shuffled until they pressed against the cabin. Kellsy sank back into the sea. While Molly and Willow's hearts steadied, they heard a light, airy giggling all around them.