уАКHidden wordsуАЛ


 Chapter 1

    Chapter 1 бд Long way down

    The city looks almost like starlight from above. Golden glittering lights blinking back at me in an almost blinding way. The cold air was nice. Simple. Nothing unknown about it just there when you want it to be. This was a nice building. Like the cold air it had always been here. From when I was little to even now. In 20 years it had never moved or ran away like so many other things in my life. I looked down.

    I looked at the ground below me and I felt little more than mourning. So many things I had wanted to see and do yet all of it pointless now. After three years of living alone I couldn''t stand it any longer. I had no one and that''s what made me like this. A shell.

    Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.So I jumped. Well, more of a step.

    At that moment I felt something. What it was I could not say.

    Then came the rushing air. So cold.

    Soon it wouldn''t matter.

    So cold.

    <hr>

    Warmth. That not right.

    As I open my eyes I see the street. The road and pathway. A small closed stall next to me.

    And heat.

    I turn my head to the person next to me. They''re hugging me. Their crying. She''s crying. Warm long red hair and amber eyes that seem to almost burn with a light look into mine.

    A silver tear run down her rosy cheek.

    "Why?" I hear her whisper before something hard hits me.

 Chapter 2

    Chapter 2 бд Bound

    Soft and warm. Fluffy like clouds. As I rolled around I remember.

    I sat up. Breath. I could not breathe. I felt ill. Sick. Everything spinning.

    Time seemed to slow as I took my first breath. Scented air fill my ling. The smell of warm earth. I opened my eyes.

    I sat on a bed. A large sky blue quilt coving me. Looking up I could see a painted ceiling of stars and a large green moon which seemed to almost admit light.

    As I tried to sit up and move I suddenly felt that I could not move my hands. I started to panic. Again. Looking down I could see under the covers only to see I had been bound to the bedding with tape. Around my arms, legs and chest.

    And were my clothes. Someone had undressed me down to just my bra and pants. It took me a while to calm down. Even after trying to wiggle out of the bindings I was still bound.

    I started trying to think about this logically. No one would waste their time with trying to kidnap me and the only person I had seen was that lady from last night.

    The author''s tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.Oh god. Last night. How ... how was I still alive? I fell, then that lady. Had she saved me? How? I had jumped off a 20 stories building. No way she could have saved me. And her face. She looked so very sad.

    It was then that I heard the click of the door at the far end of the room.

    "So you are awake" came the warmth filled voice, Like that of a sister.

    Now in the light coming from the window to the right of me, I could see her better. Her hair was to her shoulders and has such a deep red it was likely dyed that way. She wore a grey suit, from the way it clung to her it looks like she rarely wore formal clothing. Not that I was one to talk. She seemed to have little makeup on just some lipstick and little else.

    I sat there looking up at her. She must have been taller then me however I was only just 5.2 foot.

    "So not going to say anything," she said as she got closer. I remember that I was basically naked under the blankets and started to blush. Then I remember that she was likely the one who had to undress me making me blush more and start to panic. I hope she''s not going to try anything weird.

 Chapter 3

    Chapter 3 бд Thinking

    She stood their next to me. Her eyes seemed to go right to my soul. I tried to speak, already knowing that it was going to hurt.

    "I... I," my voice strained sounding like a whisper.

    "Well if you won''t talk now then maybe you will when I get back. Look I''m sorry but I have to get to work but I will be back soon, ok," the lady said as she started to walk away leaving the door open.

    I tried wiggling again when I heard a door somewhere else slam. My skinny frame did little against the thickly wrapped tape around me. I sat there and with little else to do, apart from a look around the mostly large empty room that seemed to have some boxes in the corner, I started to think.

    How had it come to this? I was going to end it and now I''m in some weirdos room. A weirdo that saved me. Somehow. And now she thinks I won''t talk to her. All because of that one day this is what I have become.Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    <hr>

    I was ten when it happened. My brother had been driving me and himself to our new home when the bridge we going under fell onto the car. It had happened quickly. There was no pain. One moment I was telling him how all my friends had given me cards and how they all said goodbye then I awoke in a white title room.

    The doctors told me what happened and how my brother body was missing. I had no one to look after me at first. I think that''s why they told me. Maybe because they believed the best way to tell me that I had just lost everything was as bluntly as possible. It hadn''t.

    I sat there crying for what felt like days which is when I lost my voice. At first, the nurse had likely believed I was just grieving by being so silent. It was when my uncle had come to see me that the penny dropped for them.

    <hr>

    As I sat thinking about it all my eyes feel to the doorway. Red eyes looked back at mine. My throat dried. My heart started beating faster. The eyes of a hunter.

    I looked closer. Unable to look else were or run as I was still bound. The body moved out of the Shadow of the doorway.

    All I could hear was my heart beating away.

 Chapter 4

    Chapter 4 бд Leg It

    "So your the reason Zoey slept on the sofa," came the whispering voice from behind the door, " I thought something was odd but this I didn''t expect."

    The air became frozen. I could see my own breath like mist.

    "So where did she find you," the whisper sounded again. I could see her now as she seemed to drift towards me. She looked normal. Short night black hair and those blood red eyes that meet mine with a look of a cat that had just found a new toy. She wore running clothes over a muscled body.

    She was next to me now. Overlooking my bound form. I was shaking. This was too much. The last thing I remembered was her hand reaching out. The feeling of being crushed. Then I fainted.

    <hr>

    A light seemed to creep into view. My body. It was so slow like I had just woken up from a year-long rest.

    "How... I said ... you ..." I could hear a voice. As Slowly as I could I rolled my head over to hear it better.

    "You never said anything about warding your room. It not my fault that you used a cheap fear ward," Came a voice I recognized as the creepy lady from before I... fainted I guess. This had been a long day. "Anyway, why is this my fault you kidnapped a girl and set wards up in my flat!"

    "First of all its are flat and can you blame me for the wards we''ve been in this flat for less than a day and you have broken into my room." came the second voice. It sounded like that red hair girl. Didn''t that other girl say her name was Zoey or something?This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    "The door was open. Hey wait a second, you didn''t say why you had an elf tried up. Your not trying to sell her are you." These two could be a TV show. Wait did she say I was an elf and what''s this about selling me. I tried to slowly open my eyes to see their faces. As I did it took me a second to focuses but when I did I wish I haven''t.

    The two girls, Zoey and scary lady, stood face to face. They looked like two kids fighting over a toy. As I looked around more I could see more of the room I was now in. It looks like I had an upgrade and now sat unbound on a sofa in the middle of the living room. More box''s lined the room which was painted in a simple white with a nice wooden edging. A large window seemed to be overlooking a road. As I looked up I could see a setting sun. That meant I had been here at least a day.

    Then I eyed my escape. There sat a door down a short hallway wide open with a numbered brass 23 affixed to it. Ever that was the front door or I really was going insane. At this point, I would take the risk of it not being the door out than with my kidnapper and the scary lady. Those now I look at her stamping her feet like a toddler I was a bit less scary.

    I wiggled to test my legs. They were heavy but they would have to do for now. I crept along. Ever so slowly. Soon I was right on the edge of the leather sofa. I let my foot drift down to the wooden floorboards. I looked up at the two. Never seemed to be looking at me. My second foot touches the floorboards ever so gently. I pushed off the sofa and onto the floor keeping low.

    Like a snail, I crept toward the door. Ready to run of it at any time. My heart was like thunder as my legs and arms pulled me along.

    "CREEK" went the floor under me

    "THUD" went the knife that hit the floor next to me.

    I jump and legged it. My legs were like lead. My mouth dry. But I refused to die here.

    "No, wait." I heard as I ran to the door.

    I ran. Past the over doors to the side and to open one at the end.

    I so close until he walked into the door frame.

 Chapter 5

    Chapter 5 бд Charmed

    There he stood with one hand of coffee cups and in the over a small book. His small form, sleepy blue eyes and untamed messy brown hair screamed book worm. As he looked at me his eyes widen. A look of shook covers his face.

    I ran right at him making him jump out of the way. A small whimper came out his mouth as I barrel past him. Then I see the lift.

    "Wick grab her" I heard one of the women yells.

    "What... why?" I hear the man called wick shout his voice edged with confusion.

    "Now!" One of the women say. Then I hear a click of fingers and my legs are bound. I fall face forward into one of the shut lift doors. If I could have screamed I would have instead a small whimper came out of my mouth. "Ow".

    "Er, what''s going on?" Came the sound of Wicks'' voice over the quickening footfall.

    "Not now, " came one of the girl''s voices. Zoey I think from the way it was softer but then I have just hit my head. I''m not a doc but I think that not a good idea. Oh god, now I''m talking to my self while I''m about to be re-kidnapped.

    Slowly I felt body get picked up. I look up to see the scary lady''s face not even change as she lifted me. Wow, she was strong. Felt kind of nice to be moved like this. In a pair of nice strong arms.The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.

    No no no. What the hell is going on I should be trying to claw her. Yet as I looked at her deep red eyes I felt myself get lost in them.

    "Er, why is she looking at me like that. How bad did that fall look to you, Wick." She voice hummed. I felt her rock hard chest and wiggled closer to her.

    "Get her in. My charm won''t last long" I heard a voice say quickly somewhere behind me.

    "This is super weird." Her voice sounded again as I tried to force myself up to her.

    "Click" came a sound behind me.

    "You can put her down now" came Zoe''s voice with a few giggles.

    I felt my body placed into one of the sofas in the living room. All my body hurt. From my head to my toes.

    "She should come out of it soon." came Wicks'' voice. I turn to look at him. As my eyes found him he quickly looked away to the others now also sitting.

    "Remind me, Wick, why you have that charm." came the lady''s voice.

    "Well... sometimes I need information and the best way to get it quickly is by charming them. I mean not that much but I wasn''t sure if it would work on her as she looks so fey like and as you know..." he carried on slowly getting redder and redder.

    "Sure Wick," came the scary/hot lady''s voice edged with disbelief "so how long until she''s not like this."

    "Soon. I hope. Anyway Bane why are we kidnapping this girl." he muttered.

    So that was their names. Zoey strict and warm, Bane scary/hot and wick nerdy and weird. Then suddenly it happened. Like the world pucked up speed. I don''t know what just happen but everything seemed to lose its warm fluffiness.

    "What did you do to me? What do you want from me?" I said as loudly as I could but it still came out as loud as a whisper. Their heads turned as one to look at me.

 Chapter 6

    Chapter 6 бд Sit Down

    My words seemed to bring silence to the room. Wick looked at Bane who then looked at Zoey in turn.

    "Well. When I found you I couldn''t just leave you. I mean you might have tried to... redo it." Zoey said slowing closer to the end.

    Everyone was still staring at her wait for her to continue.

    "Z is this about you know who?" Bane asked with a frown.

    "No no. Maybe. I don''t know. " she muttered sinking into the chair more.This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    ...

    "Well," Wick said slowly look back to me "I''m Flitwick but everyone just calls me Wick. What''s your name."

    I look at him. Was he joking after all of this that''s the first thing he asked?

    "Err. I''m sorry that we have not met in a better light but if it makes it any better I got you a drink." He said placing down a red coffee cup next to me.

    I looked at it then back at him.

    "I''m Jade." I whispered. His face turned to one of concern.

    "Are you ok. Did someone," he turn to look at the others "hurt your throat."

    I shook my head

    "Its been like this for a while."

    He nodded his head.

    "I think we should all take a rest. Today has been more than odd,"At that, he stood up and started to walk toward the door. "Bane takes care of them I''m going to look something up."

    "Yes, mom." Bane said while rolling her eyes.

    With that, I heard the door close with a click.

 Chapter 7

    Chapter 7 бд Trust

    "Zoey is it just me or is wick becoming more of an ass," Bane said in a dead tone.

    "He''s got lots going on. Felix has him doing some stuff on trying to expand a bit. Leave him be." Zoey sigh.

    "So what you going to do with her." Bane nodding her head at me.

    "I think we should let her have some red juice and sleep. She''s not looking too great."

    "What do you mean we, I have to go unpack. Unlike some, I can''t go picking up random people." Bane groaned.

    "I''m still here," I whispered raising my hand a bit.

    Zoey seemed to jump a bit and her face started turning red. "Right, right," she looked around before offering her hand to me

    "sorry let''s get you cleaned up."

    I looked down at her hand. I had no reason to trust her. She saved me but I had wanted to end it.

    I look up at her and the little smile that normally on her face wasn''t there. But her eyes. They still had that light in them. The glowing warmth.

    Did you know this text is from a different site? Read the official version to support the creator."Let me explain. Please," she said so quietly I knew it was only for me to hear.

    I reach out and took her hand. They were soft and seemed to fit mine like a glove.

    She smiled again and lead me to her room. She walks towards some of the box''s and graded a t-shirt. "Here," she said giving it to me "I know its a bit big but it''s better than the one you have. No offence."

    With that, she turns around back to the door. She slowly took her hand back and with it a bit of the warmth. "I''m going to let you get changed. Theirs a bathroom over there," she said pointing to the corner I hadn''t seen. "Let me know when you''re done."

    With that, the door closed and I was on my own again. I looked down at the t-shirt in my hand. It was pink with a logo I didn''t know about it. It looked like an eye with a second eye in the middle of it. I sniffed it smelling smokey ash like smell. It was nice in an odd way.

    I headed towards the bathroom. It was small with a painted white wall''s. It had a toilet, sink, shower and a large mirror on the wall. I walk up to it and looked at my self.

    My normal dirty golden hair was a mess and my face wasn''t much better. Somehow I had missed the cut on my cheek and I had a large purple bruising already forming on the side of my head probably from the fall. My sunken cheeks were still pale white like the rest of my face; I had always found it hard to put weight on so much that people say it stunted my growth.

    I found something off about myself and as I looked I found I didn''t have my necklace my uncle had given me. I didn''t remember taking it off. Maybe it fell off.

    As I was looking down I could see why Zoey had given me a new shirt. my old one was ripped and seemed to have a few drops of blood on it. I took my old one off to see my fin frame. Soon I had Zoe''s shirt on. It was hanging off one shoulder and was more like a shirt but it was better than the old one.

    Soon I heard the soft knocks on the door.

 Chapter 8

    Chapter 8 бд Eyes

    I walked up to the door and opened it just a crack.

    "Can I come in now?" Zoey asked. I nodded and opened the door fully.

    Slowly she walks over and sat by the bed and patted the sheets next to her. She seemed to have taken off the suit and replaced it with some purple cotton pyjamas.

    "Come sit here. Please," she asked quietly while smiling and pulling out the small tin pot.

    I hobble over on my dead weight legs and fell next to her. I looked up at her as she removed the lid from the pot. Inside a red jam looking like liquid sat. It smelt like strawberry almost. She applied some to her fingers and then turned to look at me.

    "This might sting a bit." She explained while moving her hand to my face.

    Her hand was soft as she added the gel to my face. At first, I flinched when she moved toward me. But slowly I grew to like it. I didn''t realise how close I was to her until I open my eyes to see her golden amber eyes and warm lips next to mine.

    I look at her. I hadn''t felt like this in forever. It had been almost three years since I had come out of my flat and even longer since I had been this close to someone. My cheeks burn with heat.The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    She looked back at me and smoothly whispered "I don''t know why you wanted to... do it. End it. But I want you to know that I will not let anyone I know let themselves go like that. I''ve already lost someone that way and it won''t happen again. Any time you want to talk I''m here."

    With that, she sat up and walk to the over the side of the bed with a swing to her step.

    "Now," clapping her hands together while declaring " you will sleep there and if you need me I will be right next to you."

    And with that, she turns the light off and went to bed. I was still sitting there with my mouth open and cheeks blazing. Slowly I pull the cover out and lay down next to her.

    My heart was beating faster. I stayed as still as I could. I could smell her sweet ash scent. I could feel her breathing next to me.

    I had never felt like this. My mouth was dry. Wait. Was I gay? I slowly turn to look next to me to see her long hair. I''d had crushes on boys when I was growing up and this was like that times ten.

    "I... um. Thank you" I stammered.

    I looked at her too see her already fast asleep. So she was one of those people. I felt my heart still hamming away. At least it can''t get worse I thought as my head rested on the pillow. This was a tomorrow my problem.

    <hr>

    I couldn''t breathe. I felt crushed under something. All was dark. I tried to reach out with my hands to find Zoey lying on top of me. Her chest was lying across me and her head was next to mine.

    I could feel her breath. And her red hair tickled my nose. I couldn''t move her off me. Dam these weak arms and my useless body. Unlike hers. I could feel the sleek muscled arms wrapped around me like I was a teddy bear. Her shirt was raised up and I could see a slim body that had the start of a six pack form.

    Dam it. I wasn''t going to get any sleep like this my body is boiling. I tried to close my eyes and sleep. Later then I would have liked I fell asleep.

    That was likely why I didn''t see the dark green eyes looking at me from the Window.

 Chapter 9

    Chapter 9 бд Morning person

    The light tickles my eyes. Slowly I awoke to the sound of traffic and the noise of the everyday life of London. For a second it felt like I was in my flat. Then I remember.

    The cold. The fear. That feeling of not belonging anywhere.

    But now I felt hot. Too hot. As slowly as I could I turned my head. She was next to me.

    I could feel her breath on me and that smile on her face. It was... cute. Almost like a puppy. Inch by tiny inch I oozed my way out from under her.

    I gently tiptoed to the bathroom and refreshed myself. As I got up I looked at myself in the mirror. As I started to wake up more and looked closer I realized something.

    "Their gone" I stuttered. I poked were my cut had been but now it had almost gone just leaving a light scar.

    As I exited the bathroom I could see her still asleep. I stopped. What was she? Who was she? She had done so much for me yet I didn''t know her. I only knew her name.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    Was I a bad person. I had dump myself on this lady. I had taken her bed and her time. She had even stopped me from feeling that nothingness.

    Maybe I should l just leave. I start to turn to the door.

    "Marw" the mumbled cried came from behind me.

    I turn back. I walked closer to her. Little damp spots were on the sheet next to her. She was... crying.

    "Mark" I heard it that time. It was someone''s name.

    I lead in closer and tapped her on the shoulder.

    "Awwwwww" came her yell.

    I felt the wind whoosh past me. Then I fell and hit the floor. Ow.

    "Oh I''m sorry," she said while she jump up and helped me up. She looked me up and down before hugging me. It was sudden. I felt myself lock up in shock. I could feel her heart against mine.

    "I''m so happy you stayed" she hummed as I grew used to her warmth. It was like a soft cloud almost. I look around to see I was right next to her chest and her...

    I started to glow red and my body started to try and wiggle out of her arms.

    "How... did you do that," I asked as she let me go.

    "Do what," she asked as she looked around at the bed "gross did you drool?"

    "No and I meant my face," I exclaimed quietly pointing at my face.

    "Oh I just used a bit of healing gel" she smiled back. She was a morning person foreshore.

    "Somewhat," I replied back

    "You know... alchemists magic stuff," she said with a small frown and a raised eyebrow.

    "Magics not real," I replied with a giggle. The stress was getting to me.

    Zoey''s frown deepened.

 Chapter 10

    Chapter 10 бд breathing

    I looked at her. Her face didn''t change. A mix of shock and confusion.

    I started laughing. I couldn''t help it. It was all a joke. Maybe this was just something made up in my head from the fall. Maybe I was dying right now and I was dreaming. Or maybe these people were just mad.

    I looked back at her. The fear in her eyes. I stop laughing. This couldn''t be fake because that fear on her face was not fake. It was real. So very real.

    I felt her gripping me. Her mouth was moving but weirdly like time wasn''t moving right and I could hear any sound. I felt odd. She pushed me toward the bed. I felt the air around me. I tried to breathe and found I couldn''t.

    As quick as it had happened it ended. Like that, I could hear her again.

    "Jade you need to breathe. Calm down, you need to breathe." Zoey urged panic clear in her voice.

    "I... am..." gasping "I... am"

    Slowly the door to the hallway opened to show the form of Bane walking in quickly with a sword in one hand.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    "Zoey you ok I heard shouting, its not those rats again is it. I knew they would find me I..." Bane stop as she looked around the room. Then she zeroed in on Zoe''s panicked face then to me sitting on the bed still gasping for air.

    " you, erm, ok in here." Bane turned to ask Zoey.

    " I think we are now. I think Jade may have had a reaction to the healing daft or something." Zoey replied still looking me over.

    "Alright then," she said trying to hide the very large blade behind her back "maybe it might be best for you to take her to see someone."

    "I guess I could take him to see Felix." Zoey sighed seeming to calm down a bit now.

    "Do you think that as a good idea. He super weird and you will have to ask Void" Bane replied who was now backing out the room slowly still trying to hide the blade. Why did she even have that thing? It was as long as my arm and looked to be made of some dark steel with a very sharp edge to it.

    "It will be fine. We best get going now in case of anything else." Zoey insisted with a nod. She stood up and headed to the door. Turning back to look at me.

    "Come on if we hurry we can get a coffee when coco opens up," before turning her head to Bane "You don''t think that I''m blind do you. What did we say about blades in my room."

    With a sigh from Bane, she walked off with her sword muttering something about "that one time..." before then going to a different room across the hallway.

    I walked over to Zoey. As we headed down the hallway she grabbed a purse and keys before handing me a lightweight green coat.

    "In case you get cold and to help cover up." She said with a wink as I look to see the oversized t-shirt falling off one shoulder.

    With that Zoey opened the door.

 Chapter 11

    Chapter 11 бд London rush

    We hurried down the road. The sun hadn''t risen yet and only a few people seemed to be out. As Zoey pulled me along I didn''t get to see many details however the street I could almost feel were different.

    It was like a dark aura filled the streets. I shivered and not from the cold wind. People hurried on most hiding their face and some even under dry black umbrellas even those it wasn''t raining.

    We went on and on Zoey gabbing my hand pulling me along. I wouldn''t have minded but I almost fell face first many times trying to keep up.

    Left. Left. Right. Left again. Going in between empty alleyways. Past closed shop and running across roads until we came to a small office building. Dark glass windows were impossible to see into. Gray concrete walls stood tall and strong.

    "Fwww, we made it and in good time too," Zoey said turning back to me for the first time since we started running.

    "I never doing that again" I puffed bent over.

    "Come on we need to talk to Void," Zoey stated as she walks towards the door and headed inside. Slowly I joined her.Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.

    As I stepped in the colours changed. A small welcome room with White painted walls and purple cushions chairs lined the wall. A small table sat in the corner filled with magazines. A wooden door seemed to lead more into the office. Above the door sat a logo.

    The logo seemed to glow golden almost with a relic feeling to it. On a wooden shield base sat a painted golden key hanging from a chain. It was a simple design but at the same time odd like it was missing something. A large crack seems to run from one end of the wooden shield to the over yet it still stayed together.

    "Why would some be called Void. Is it a gang name or something." I stuttered as the warmth of the heating make me realise how bitter outside it was for the begging of spring.

    Zoey giggled as she placed her hand on a glass screen next to the door, that seemed to scan her hand.

    "Sorry just trying to think of Void as a gangster," Zoey replied as the wooden door clicked open "maybe as a mob boss but I think he got it when working for the government."

    "So you also work for the government," I asked quietly so not to stain my voice. Already it was starting to itch.

    "No Void got fired I think and had to babysit Felix or something. As for what I do I''m a relic hunter." she puffed proudly as we walked down a large room with much the same decor and past a few desks with paperwork and computers sitting on them.

    Then we came to three doors. One a large reinforced metal door and two wooden ones. The wooden doors were named on brass plates as such: "Void" and "Lily".

    Zoey knocked on the one marked "Void" and a deep stone cold voice reply " Come in Zoey and bring her with you."

 Chapter 12

    Chapter 12 бд Forms

    Zoey pushed open the door to reveal a simple office. Framed document lined the walls, a small metal document draw sat in the corner while a small window let in the light of the rising sun. At the end of the room sat a wooden desk littered in forms and other paperwork with a small computer humming away giving out a pale light.

    Sitting in that pale light sat a large bulking man. Grey hair, grey eye''s matching with a grey suit. Black rippling tattoo ran around his hands and up his arms. His face gave away no details apart from the bags under his eyes and his body slumped into the chair giving away his lack of sleep.

    "Zoey how can I help you." came the deep voice of Void.

    "Um, well I need Felix to have a look at Jade," Zoey muttered with puppy eyes at Void.

    "Zoey you know that will not work on me," he replied with a yawn before turning his eyes to me "Zoey would you please leave for a second."

    "Sure thing boss man," she agreed" you coming Jade."

    "I meant Zoey that me and Miss Jade here should talk. Alone if you please." He replies in an even tone.

    "Oh.. alright then I guess I will be outside if you need me." She said slowly walking out the door and shutting it behind her.Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.

    "Please take a seat" Void directed me to a small leather couch next to the wall.

    "So miss Jade do you happen to have a last name." Void chuckled crossing his arm.

    "I do. It''s Rivera. Jade Rivera" I babbled

    "Any family I should know about" Void responded

    "No. No one. Can I ask why?" I replied now starting to get annoyed. I wasn''t used to talking this much.

    "Work it out yourself. Now, do you know about magic" he sighed?

    "No. Is that some type of joke."I snapped back now getting very annoyed.

    With a deep sigh, he started reaching into a draw. " I have a form here; fill this out in your own time. The basics you need to know is magic is real. Some people have it some can see it and most can''t see it. People can gain magic sight and magic from any age but more likely if other people in their family have magic. You have to go to a school of types that what the forms for. Now then Felix get off her lap and do your job."

    "Aw no fair." Came a sound of a teens voice next to me.

    I jumped up and failed. looking down to see a person laying on top of me. A slim blond hair guy who looked to be about 20. with Green eye, white lab coat, cat ear and tail. Wait... what.

    "Your a cat," I said shocked.

    "No, I''m not. Mew." He said raising a hand and using it as a paw.

    "Felix stop it." Voids voice grumbled from his chair.

    "Your no fun." Came a voice from the corner. I looked down to see he had disappeared.

    "What... how... what" I stuttered.

    "That Felix. He has many skills. He can teleport and be a pain in the ass at the same time." Void chimed now standing up and walking to the door.

    "Your so cute Void when your half asleep," Felix said with a beaming smile.

    "Whatever you say. Lock up when you leave. Night Zoey." Void muttered stumbling out the door.

    "It morning just to say." Zoey hummed as he walked away.

 Chapter 13

    Chapter 13 бд Weirdos

    "Well, are you coming then." Came the giggling voice of Felix.

    "How are you doing that and why is that guy so mean," I asked still pissed at that guy.

    "Number one: magic. Number two: he''s been dumped with a load of paperwork from the top lady, has to keep an eye on all the lemmings, haven''t slept in four days and is a recovering alcoholic. Is that all my lady?" saying the last part with a deep over the top bow.

    "Um yes," I replied a bit shocked at the quick reply.

    "Now to the lab!" Felix shouted with a flick of his lab coat. He started walking out of Voids office and to the large metal door. I followed with Zoey behind be playing on her phone.

    And she had the sound on. Some people.

    As the door slowly opened Felix waved his hands and in a bellowing tone said "welcome to the great lab of stuff and many things."

    White tile walls and a large metal fan for the room of the room. Tables were cluttered with items some long, thin and made of glass whiles glowed and beeped. Everything was everywhere and compared to the formal and clean office this looked like a bomb had hit it.

    "Sorry about the mess. I''m doing stuff in the storeroom sooooo yes. Also, Zoey don''t go into the storeroom."

    "Why what did you do?" She asked a fit of fear forming on her face. God, she was easy to read.

    "Its fine, it fine I''ve done worse," he said while moving around the room. Upon moving to an examination table he swept away all the boxes stored on top onto the floor.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

    He looked at me and patted the table.

    "Wait. You''re not going to do anything weird to me. Right." I asked the fear easy to hear in my voice.

    "You don''t trust me," He cried wiping away a fake tear "after all I have done for you now you wish to frow me to the street rats."

    "I''ve known you for less than five minutes" I tried to shout my voice cracking as I did so.

    "Oh and in that time we''ve shared so much. Your soft legs, my endless charm." He declared with a smug look like the cat that got the cream.

    Suddenly he was right in front of me. "Maybe a kiss to make you feel better."

    I opened my mouth to shout back but then he kissed me. On my lips. On my fucking lips.

    SLAP.

    I slapped him as hard as I could.

    I wish I hadn''t had come out of my flat. There was no need for my uncle paid for it all but oh no. My stupid feelings. That damn cold. That damn nothingness.

    I turn around. This was too much. I can''t deal with people like him who treat life as a game. A sick fucking game.

    That''s when I tripped and everything went dark.

    <hr>

    The white tile room and blue sheeted bed. The sounds of people running around me. Back and fro, back and fro their footsteps echoing along the long hall they walk along. I remembered this place.

    I was back in that hospitable from all those years ago. Laying in my bed looking out the windows at a nearby park. There were children playing their. I remember it now. So clearly.

    The door opened and income two people. One was faceless like a blurred image but the over clean as day to see. My uncle.

    I tried to move but my body didn''t. A dream or more of a nightmare at the time.

    "If you would leave us." came his voice but it sounded wrong like it was from far away or down a well.

    He walk towards me and sat down blocking my view of the window and the light of the setting sun.

    "Hello, their Jade. It nice to meet you" came his voice again but they seemed to be out of sink with his mouth.

    "You likely don''t know me but I''m your sister brother. Me and your mom didn''t talk much but now I''m here to look after you." He said with a smile. His face was wrong. It was all wrong. The room looked like it was melting almost."

    Slow his hand reached for something in his pocket. Soon he held a small glass marble which he placed in my open hand. I didn''t remember this. Not at all.

 Chapter 14

    Chapter 14 бд Friend''s

    I felt the pain. It was like someone was flicking my face. As I open my eyes I soon found out why. Felix was flicking my face.

    I didn''t move. That dream. It was so wrong, what did it mean. I couldn''t understand...

    "Wakey wakey little chaos." I felt his breath on my ear. I jumped and fell off the chair I was sat on with a ''thump''.

    "You are so very clumsy. Its a wonder you''re still living." Came to his voice again coated in a sheen of venom.

    "Screw you creep," I muttered.

    As I started to stand up my eyes adjusted to the room dim light. I look to see Felix with his tail whipping around sitting on one. of the workbenches. His face now sporting a black eye and the ends of his golden hair blacken with ash and still slightly smoking.

    "You call me a creep. I get stuck in a lab every day and because I try to have fun people over reactor," he rebuked with a yawn "if it makes you feel better I can answer some question if you want but only if I get some in return."

    "What would I want to know from you pervert?" I asked now nonchalantly heading for the metal door out.You could be reading stolen content. Head to Royal Road for the genuine story.

    "Well, maybe the best place to nap in the sun maybe was the best fish. Oh and that one question from you so now I get one free." He finished with a smile.

    "Are you crazy?"I asked still confused as to what he was on about.

    "Me first dear. Why did you have this note in your jean pockets." He purred holding up a folded up piece of paper. My note.

    "Give that back," I shouted trying to grab my note.

    "Ok after you tell me." He said with a smile while holding it above my head.

    "You read it to you," urr "know what it''s about." I tried to shout my voice breaking halfway. I needed a drink.

    "You''re so boring. No fun at all. So I will tell you this now if you''re a spy or if you do try to kill yourself I will get your soul and bury it so far from everything you will spend the rest of you in a worse place then the nine hells. Zoey is my family and I will not let her lose anymore." I felt his breath hiss at me while room seemed to grow dark the lights dimming.

    I felt like the room was almost squishing me. I look up at his face.

    Slowly his face moves away from mine and he smiled at me "I''m sorry to be a meanie but Zoey is my friend. One thing you will learn about magic is that it will not fix your issues and sometimes friends are your only way out of the fiery pits."

    "I understand. But there is one more thing." I asked my body able to move again.

    "Go on." He said.

    "Why is your hair smoking," I whispered trying not to stain my voice.

    He looks at me stand so close I could smell him. A mix of chemicals and mint. I think. It was hard to smell over the smell of burnt hair. I could hear the soft breathing. Then I heard a deep laughing.

    "Maybe your not too boring after all."

 Chapter 15

    Chapter 15 бд Changes

    It took about ten minutes but I did finally get some answer. While waiting for Zoey to come back, from getting coffee or so Felix said, I walked into the office.

    Felix later came out with a sheet of paper filled with numbers and a ''magic for dummies'' book.

    "Read the book and have Zoey do the form with you that Void gave you. That what that number sheet is for. Also... I''m sorry for today. Were all a bit on edge with stuff." I heard him say with his bouncy voice now almost normal. I looked up to see he had disappeared again.

    "Stupid magic," I Muttered while opening the book.

    It took a little while but I got about halfway into it. It started off talking about the different types of magic. There were lots. There were elements such as fire, water and so on but they could also be split into subsections like stream or lightening. Then there was faith magic of priest from gods, a lot of different gods. There was healing, plants, sound and pages more.

    Then there was multi caster. They could do spells but only to a limited amount per day and they have to remember spells. I tried to look at some of the most basic ones in the book. The book then went on to explain spells. It went on to say.

    ''Most spells while hard to learn for those with the skills or training of mages, wizards or in some rare case sorcerer. This is for the magic that is found in that of the words of spells is believed to be almost living and like most wild beast it wishes not to be tamed. However, some basic spells can be learnt even by those who show very little skill in magic with time. Some would even say,such a high mage Zollton of the London tower, the only way to truly learn and master a spell is with time.''This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.

    It went on and on. To be truthful its a bit boring.

    I opened my mouth for a deep yawn. I looked out the tinted window. The sun was still high up it looked to be noonish but it was still the end of winter so it was hard to tell. Why was I always so sleepy and why did I suddenly become so clumsy.

    I stood up and did a quick run. I felt fine a bit sleepy but fine. I looked around and found the toilet. I headed in. It was a simple room with a toilet, basin and mirror. I turn to look in the mirror.

    ...

    I wasn''t me. I mean it was me but my face was sharper. My cheekbones were higher and my swallow cheek looked normal. My once unhealthy yellow coloured skin, while it was still pale from a lack of going outside no longer, had a tint of illness to it.

    It was me but not me. It was a better me. I looked at the book still in my hand. Was this magic. I remember every from Void to Bane and even Zoey was good looking and healthy.

    Quickly I scanned the book and found the page I wanted.

    ''Magic can be used to bend space and the rule of the universe it can also affect the user in different ways. This can be down to the bloodline, magic wields or even moulding a person physical body based on their soul itself. It can some help or hinder the user. WARNING: in case of mass magical mutation seek medical help!"

    I look back at the mirror. Well, I ever have to believe magic is real or that I just got super high, had a facelift and everyone was in on it. It''s bad when I hope that its magic. I sound like I''m ten again.

 Chapter 16

    Chapter 16 бд Crowds

    Finally, Zoey came back. I was sitting now in the lobby staring at the glowing logo above the door when I heard the door open wave of morning air hit me. Alarge smile lit up her face yet as she came closer I couldn''t smell a hint of coffee.

    "Felix said you were getting coffee," I said a bit confuses.

    "Yep, I booked a table. Did Felix do his job or do I have to go find him because I think I run out of tuna cans." She asked while offering her hand to me which I took. So warm.

    I held up the sheet of papers that he gave me and passed it to Zoey papers that he gave me. She gave me a nod and walked out the door.

    "See ya, Felix," Zoey shouted as the door shut behind us. I turn to the now busy street. The humming Of passing cars mixed with people talking on phones and to each over as they walk down the street.

    Zoey pulled me along in a small jog. Now with the rising sun, I could see around me much better. Buildings lined the streets like however, they had more space to them with larger gardens and the pathways were lined with streets lights like the old oil ones from the Victorian times.

    As we carry on I got good looks at the people around us. Most were human but a few stood out. A group of scaled people walked past with extended shout and short but still clawed fingers. They walked past by us talking in a hissing language that I didn''t understand.

    We carry on till we got to a small shop with a metal sign hanging above the door showing a steaming teapot. Large drapes covered windows which behind them showed table filled with people holding hot drinks. The door stood open with the words ''golden stream'' written on the door and seemed to shimmer like shifting golden sand.Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    We step up with Zoey leading us to the little queue of people waiting to order. I looked at the tables to see people mostly hidden in booths. They all seemed to be talking a laughing the sound echoing around the room. I moved closer to Zoey into her side.

    I wasn''t used to this many people. I can almost feel peoples eyes moving onto me like a seal being hunted I sharks. My hands started shaking. I felt like I was being crushed as I shrunk into Zoey shadow to help hide.

    I felt a poke to my side. I looked up to see Zoe''s face as she nodded towards a staircase. "Go on ahead I will grab us a drinks ok."

    I half crept, half sprinted to get up the stairs. I don''t care if looked weird doing it I just wanted to be out of here. Away from the noise.

    Upon stepping up the finale steps I got to a much quieter landing. It was the same as downstairs but with only one booth filled. An odd group of a goblin with a creepy mask, a blue demon looking person and a pink hair super tall guy with grey fur coving his body. I went to sit at a different table in the corner next to a window.

    The sunlight seeped into the room and warmed me as I sat down in it. I had always like room to be warm and sitting in the sun was the best way I found to do it. It was a shame I never went outside much now I was thinking about it but I just couldn''t stand peoplelooking at me so I never left my flat.

    Now I had time to sit and without the fear of a cat ear weirdo over my should I start to make a plan. Taking the book on magic and a pen I had gotten from Zoe''s office I started writing:

    To do -

    бд Find my uncle to explain weird dreams

    бд Find out about magic (magic school?)

    бд Find a way to say thanks to Zoe

    I didn''t know how to do the last one but she saves me from me and I had to do something.

    "Now let''s fill out that paperwork" came Zoe''s voice over my should. I quickly shut the book with the list inside of it. Then I looked at her trying to do my sweetest most innocent smile. From the way she raised an eyebrow, I felt like I haven''t done a good job at it.

 Chapter 17

    Chapter 17 бд Twist

    Zoe stood over me holding a tray with two drinks in a deep purple cups and plate with what looked like brownies. She places the tray down on the wooden table and slid into the other seat facing me.

    "Thanks," I said quietly "but I can''t pay you back for this."

    "Ha, you don''t have to pay me for this but if you don''t mind me asking what with the voice." She asked picking up her drink and sipping on it her hands around the cup.

    "I don''t mind. It happened when I was a kid and I lost my voice due to my brain being under pressure from a... accident. It took a while but I had to relearn how to speak again but I still can''t talk anything above a whisper due to my voice box being underdeveloped.

    "That sucks. Did you teach yourself?" She asked still holding her cup to her face.

    "No, I had lessons. It took about five years to get it to this level. My uncle tried to get a new treatment for me to try but no one would let them try it on a kid." I reply now reaching for one of the brownies. My tummy was grumbling from the lack of breakfast.

    "I thought you told Void you didn''t have any family." She replied

    "You were listening to my conversation!" I exclaimed before I start coughing on the brownie.

    After I stopped coughing Zoe explained "well I had to check you were ok. Voids a bit... on the colder side when it comes to people messing around with his business. I think it one of the only things that keep him going so I had to check he wouldn''t try and scare you away."This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    I sat their not talking slowly munching away. It was a very good brownie with a gooey still harm centre and crispy sides. I watch a Zoe started twitching in her seat.

    Trying to not pay attention to Zoe I looked around to see a very thin Tv in the corner of the room. I pretended to be watching it. I know it not like I had said anything import to that ass Void but still did she not trust me. She was like my uncle always shielding me.

    I turned back to look at her. Her eyes quickly looked away from me but I could see the worry in them.

    It not her fault. I couldn''t be trusted. I had proven that from trying to get myself kill to the fact I kept getting knocked out. I hadn''t proven myself to her and she had done much for me. I know what it is.

    It me. I always push people away and then never talk to them. It what had made me lonely in the first place. It what invited that coldness.

    At first, I fault a heard the tapping of rain on the window then when I looked I found I was wrong. Zoe''s finger tapped the table with a nearness hand while she faced the window her body causing the light and the small dust particles falling around her that seem to catch twinkle like little embers. I reach out.

    I felt the warmth of her hand as I held it " It ok. Thank you for... for everything."

    She turned to me. Her wonderful deep eyes stared into mine. I could feel the light their; like a blazing forest fire. The cheeks coloured with a hint of rosy pink while her autumnleaf hair fell in front of her red lips.

    I felt myself lead in ever so slowly as I felt her mimic my movements. I could feel her mint sweet breath. I could feel my heart like a hurricane in my chest. Body almost stiff in a mix of shock and interest. I wonder why I had ever been sad.

    "Breaking news: superhero has been filmed during a bank robbery showing multiple magic effects. The governor has released a warning to report their happenings while the chairman of the library had yet to give a statement on this turn of events." The Tv hummed loudly.

    I felt myself jumping in my seat. I felt my hand pull away as I hit my knee on the table. My face burned. Had I just tried to kiss someone? Had I just tried to kiss a girl and Zoe at that. My hands were shaking.

    There was no way that what I just done was right trying to take advantage of Zoe. I looked up to see Zoe red-faced turn to the Tv and her grab her phone. I had tried to take advantage of her when she had already felt guilty about listing in on me.

    "I''m sorry," I whisper so quietly only I could hear it.

 Chapter 18

    Chapter 18 бд Misunderstanding

    "Sorry about that." I heard from Zoe.

    "N... no, it''sme," I whisper trying to sink into the chair.

    "Hmm, what? I was just checking up on something," she explained placing her phone on the table "but it not important. So do you have that papers."

    I nodded, handed the papers over. Maybe she didn''t think that I was trying to.. of course she didn''t. It was just me. Maybe it was just in my brain tried from all of this mess.

    "So this is for the London mage college. You kind of have to go but you can get time off to do stuff along as it with someone or like not to do with magic. They''re a lot of rubbish on here like time, location, risk of death and all that other junkie stuff," Zoey went on going down the paper and tick boxes down the form.

    "Did you say risk of death?", I asked think she was joking.

    "Umm, magic is not the safest thing but if lots of people died from it then the college wouldn''t still be open. Anyway, I go to the same place and iv not hear that many horror stories yet." She said trying to reassure me.Unauthorized usage: this narrative is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.

    It didn''t help reassure me but she did say she went there.

    "So will you be doing the same class as me," I asked trying not to make it sound like I wanted to be in the same class. She was the only person I really trusted after all.

    "Maybe but likely not. You will be put with others who just got the sight so you will all be able to learn at the same rate and stuff. They will probs tell you when you get there," She explained "now just a few questions. Do you know where you will be living."

    Oh hell. I forgot that today was the day my flat was being taken back. I didn''t have a job and my uncle had been paying for it but when he found out I stop going to universe for my art degree, which he made me take, he had cut my funds. He still gave me money for food but not to pay my landlord with and it''s not like anyone''s going to hire a person like me. No one ever even seems to remember me.

    "Jade areyou there," I heard the voice and looked up to see a worried looking Zoe tapping me.

    "Sorry. I did have a place but now I don''t." I whisper now just realising I was homeless. I should have tried hard to get a job. I had reliedtoo much on the hope he wouldn''t find out. I had gotta away with it for a year but all good thing come to an end I guess.

    I look up to look at Zoe expending to see pity or disappointment. She was smiling. She really was crazy.

    "This is great it means you can stay with me. We can get you a job and you can help pay rent then Bane will be super happy. This is super great." She almost shouted her face full of glee.

    My felt my jaw hang open.

    "You would let me stay with you, really," I asked feeling a small smile on my face.

 Chapter 19

    Chapter 19 бд From a point of view

    "Oh that. They''re a bit of a new thing. Some crazy techno-mage made some magic tiny robots that let some people get magic in a limited way. It would be ok but even people who lack mana site can see them which isn''t that bad but some of the older users think its bad." Zoe explained

    "So there are real superheroes?" I asked

    "You just found out about there being a how new world of magic I think we can forget about them for now," Zoe said before looking at me "and even more importantly we need to find you some new clothes. Oh and toothbrushes and soaps... " Zoe went on thinking to things to buy

    "I have some stuff at my old flat. It might still be there." I mumbled.

    "Ok, we better get going then. After I go pay. Be back in a second." Zoe said jumping up and walking away.

    <hr>

    After we walked down a few streets we walked past a glowing blue barrier.

    "What is this?" I asked looking at it.

    "Oh, it keeps non-magic people out and keeps the mana in the air dense to stop monsters from leaving. Its to keep people safe." She said with a nod. After that, we keep goingLove what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.

    It took a while but we, me and Zoe, managed to convince the landlord to let me take my stuff. He wasn''t the worst landlord and I had always paid on time and never got a noise complaint.

    It didn''t take long to pack my stuff. A suitcase of clothes, a few toiletries and my old laptop. It took about an hour. A short walk there and back to Zoe, and mine I guess, flat.

    By the time we got there, my arms were aching, my legs breaking and my spine screaming in pain. After throwing my stuff down in an almost empty spare room. Soon I felt myself crash down on the sofa in an almost dream-like state.

    Zoe called me but a failure to move let alone walk over. Soon I felt my mind ease and I fell into sleep.

    <hr>

    Zoe viewpoint ----

    She was so cute. Jade. It was such a good name and just like her. Prity and rare. Well, I think Jade is rare. I walked over the chair she was in.

    I lent down and picked her up. Like a leaf, so weightless. I walked trying my hardest not to rock her and headed to my room.

    Soon I lay her down and as careful as I could undo her coat and shoes. As I place the covers over her I let my smile slip. I felt her cold cheeks, so pale like snow and just as cold too. As I pulled the cover-up I couldn''t help fell her chest. She was so thin I could feel her bones like a starved dog.

    I leaned down next to her cheek. I could hear her breathing in short breaths. Even with a day of walking around, I could smell Jade. Like fresh lily''s.

    As slowly as I could I walked out of my room and shut the door. Is it weird that I felt like a creep in my own place? Meh, oh well. I''m sure I had some ice-cream in the fridge unless has Bane eaten it. I bet she would do.

 Chapter 20

    Chapter 20 бд Sunrise

    It was still too weird for me. I had awoken to Zoe''s arms crushing me like I was some kind of toy. Soon I knew I would have my own bed but as weird as it was I think I was going to miss the warmth.

    "Ow ow ow," I whispered as she crushed me with her arms. God, she was strong.

    Looking out to the window I could see it was just turning to dawn. Like a snail, I oozed my way out of her bear hug. In the dim light, I walk quickly to the doorway. My steps were silent apart from the odd winning floorboard.

    I walked out to the kitchen. I looked around the marble surfaces and at the pale blue painted wooden cupboard. Slowly I started opening the cupboard up looking for some glasses or mugs to drink from. I didn''t find a fridge but one of the larger cupboards seemed to have loads of weird writing over it and the milk and butter inside were cold. After looking in each cupboard I found some clean glasses.

    After filling up a glass with water I quickly gulped it down surprised at how thirsty I was. Taking my half-empty glass I walked over to the living room. There wasn''t much their still but the two sofas a small coffee table and the TV. Looking at the TV I could see it was super fin bit looking closer it looked to be made of some kind of polished stone with tiny letters and the line running around the edge of it.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

    I guessed it was some kind of magic language like on the cool cupboard. What did they call it? I think it was runes. I wasn''t a big fantasy book reader, I had always just looked at videos online and stuff but when I was little my brother had been big on that kind of thing. He had always tried read to me at night about all kinds of odd worlds where people could do cool things like that.

    "Uwww what time is it," I heard muttered behind me. I jump. Looking to see where the voice came from I could see Bane sitting in one of the sofa half submerged into it. How I hadn''t seen her before I didn''t know.

    "Stupid sun. Why''s it got to go up so early can it not that I''m sleeping," I heard her muttered as she blinked her eyes "oh, you''re still here then. Sorry about making you jump. I''m used to being the only one awake at this time and I know Zoe sleep like a brick."

    "Its fine," I whispered feeling a bit stupid for jumping. To be fair to myself I wasn''t use to being near people.

    "Say could you grab me some water my heads killing me. God hangovers suck." Bane said as I went to get a second glass of water. I also refilled mine as well.

    As I came back Bane was sitting up. "Thanks," she mattered drinking sum before putting the rest up to her forehead.

    I sat down on the over sofa and tried to look out the window. There wasn''t much to see apart from over buildings but it luckily it was not to buildup around here so I could still see the sun rising. Just.

 Chapter 21

    Chapter 21 бд Rising

    I liked the sunrise. You couldn''t see it very well from the flat but the tiniest bit of warm light seemed to glide around the glass and stone walls of the rising building. While there were no bird noises I could hear the odd car humming down the road. This was a peaceful part of London I guess. Or maybe they had magic cars, a magic mini Cooper.

    "So Zoe said you''re going to be staying here then," Bane said more as a statement than a question.

    I turn back to look at her. She looked a mess with her short hair a mess most likely from sleeping on the sofa. Her clothes were not much better to have creese in her jeans and a leather jacket. A pair of dry muddy red fabric shoes sat next to the sofa, which I could only imagine was her''s.

    "Guess that cool. I might have some friends come round, hope you don''t mind. Oh also if you see any rats with purple fur just walk away and tell me." Bane told me with a complete state face.

    "Em, ok. I''m sure I will be fine with people. But what''s with the rats?" I asked half hoping to see was joking.

    "I may have pissed off some crazy warlock and he made these mind reading rats to follow me around. There mostly ok but after a while, they start to form this big swarm that took over half my old flat," Bane muttered now finished her water and was starting to go from the cupboards.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

    "Is that a common thing that happens?" I asked

    "No. There are laws and stuff but he was like a hundred years old and was fairly powerful so he got away with it with a warning." She said taking some pills and putting the kettle on.

    "So... is being that old normal. For magic people." I said. I mean it magic so maybe people could live forever, all the wizards in movies were super old so maybe there was some truth to that.

    " sometimes. Some things like bird people live for about ten years and some old god are from different realms of reality that are billion years old. One thing about magic is that it makes no sense and can change how it works in seconds. I think you will live a while since you have some kind of elf blood." Bane explained while waiting next to the kettle.

    "Why does everyone keep saying I''m part elf or fey. I don''t think I''m part elf." I said now turning back to look at the rising sun.

    "Well you look like a city elf and you give off that vibe. Don''t worry about it too much it not that uncommon for there to be half-elves." Bane said mow pouring out the boiled water into a mug.

    "Ok," I whisper. Maybe I was part elf. I mean mum had disappeared when I was little and my dad... had also disappeared. That odd. I had never found that weird before but now I think about it my family had all died or disappeared. I had never met my dad and my mum had gone when I was five. I wasn''t sad about it, I had grown used to it just being me and my brother.

    When he died was when I truly felt alone. I knew that I was on my own. He had cared for me since mom left.

 Chapter 22

    Chapter 22 бд Wake-up

    So, Zoe said that she''s busy today so ya get to hang out with me. I don''t really know how you know Zoe and what you do for fun but I have my group coming round later so you can stay here and talk to them. I think their an ok bunch. Not that you have many choices," Bane suddenly told me. Looking at me dead in the eye "if you try to sneak out I will drag you back kicking if I must."

    "Um, ok I guess I don''t have a choice," I whisper my mind now on the now and not... on that.

    "I''m just saying how it is. Do you drink?" Bane asks with her voice sleepy again and looking more to drink the coffee she just made.

    "No I think it tastes horrible," I whisper. I had always found drinks to taste bad so much that even the sweetest drink I found hard to drink. The only reasons I ever had a drink was on a few of the date I went on. The dates never seemed to go well ever so maybe it was a psychological thing.

    "Same, oh well at least Odin will like ya," Bane replied.This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.

    "Like the god Odin," I asked. For all, I new maybe gods were just people with magic. It made sense.

    "Yer, I think he was named after that guy," Bane said. Making me feel a bit stupid for thinking that a person might really be a god. To be fair it had been, what, a day since I found magic was a thing so.

    God it felt longer, Zoe <u>had</u> dragged me everywhere and I still felt my muscle ack just thinking about all that walking. I say they''re trying not to think about it.

    It was just too much to think about. It felt odd. My life had been so dull before and now it was filled with odd people and so much to explore. Maybe I should get out more. I didn''t beforehand but now their so much I don''t know. I would have to ask about it. Maybe Zoe will help me out with this new feeling. My feeling of... freedom.

    ''BUZZ BUZZ''came a loud buzzing noise from Zoe room.

    "What is that," I asked.

    "Zoe alarm," Bane muttered before walking into Zoe room to tell her to get up and as Bane said "turn that god dam alarm off".

    It took about an hour for zoe to get presentable in a new suit that somehow still ended up looking ill fitting and messy on her. It then took her another few minute to convince that I wasn''t going to wander off. It not like I''m a little kid dam it.

    "So I''m going to head off soon but first," Zoe said turning to Bane "don''t let your friends be a bad influence on my Jade okay"

    "I will try," Bane trying to sound reassured but in my mind failing.

    Slowly Zoe went leaving me at the flat with Bane.

 Chapter 23

    Chapter 23 бд Ripley

    Slowly Zoe went leaving me at the flat with Bane. I sat in the living room for a while. I didn''t notice Bane had gone to her room till the door clicked shut leaving me to look out the window again. Slowly the sun rose and the sound of traffic grew heavier from the street below.

    Slowly I felt myself go into a bit of a trance just try to accept all the noise and view that I so used to but had changed to something new. Or maybe that was just me that had changed.

    It took about an hour for me to get bored and as I couldn''t work out the stupid TV that had no buttons for some dumb reasons. I headed to my new room.

    It was almost the same as Zoe''s but smaller and with no bathroom or items apart from my small bag of clothes and laptop.

    "Need to get a bed and draws. Maybe I could...," I muttered to myself sitting on the floor and reaching for my laptop. It slowly booted up to my desktop and opened my email. It didn''t have much mail just some junk but for some weird reason, my junk folder is full of message. Odd this was my clean email I didn''t use it for... other stuff.

    I clicked it open. Goddamit. There must be at least fifty messages from my uncle. I hover over the newest one and clicked.

    ''Jade I know I maybe have been a bit harsh on you but please message me back. I called your landlord and he said you moved out. I''m sorry. I just want you to do the best you can please message me back soon. Please.Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!

    Your best uncle Ripley.''

    The message had been sent an hour or so ago so I quickly wrote back.

    ''I''m fine. With a friend, Jade'' I replied. I knew it was short but if I wrote much more then he would read way to much into it.

    It only took a few minutes until I got a reply.

    ''I''m so happy your ok. Again I''m sorry about me freaking out about the uni. If you need some money for a hotel or for travel funds to come back if you need it.

    I didn''t know you had any friends that were that nice. You didn''t tell me about a friend. Do they have a name? Do they live nearby? Are they dating anyone? How old are they?

    Uncle Ripley.''

    Dam it. I knew I shouldn''t have said anything about being with a friend. He was way too protective and paranoid. I bet he thinks Zoe''s trying to get to know me to get to his money. I mean Zoe didn''t even know much about him so there is no way she would be after me for money.

    I had people try to date me for money in the past bit their always so grabby and never paid for anything. Zoe had helped me. For nothing. If anything I own her every penny I own. She did save my... saved me from me.

    I sent back

    ''She''s just a friend. If you could send money I have some stuff to sort out. No I can sort it myself.

    Love Jade''

    I wasn''t happy to lie to him but it was better then having him try and drag me back to his house. And putting she would hopefully put off his fear of me dating her.

    ''Ok. I will send some money now but come back soon. If you need to sort something I can do it for you but I will let you try for now.

    See you soon and bring your friend.

    Love you''

    He soon replayed. Hopefully, that will give me rent for a month but I will probable have to go see him soon. I almost need to ask him about what happed at the hospital in my dream. It didn''t sit right with me.

 Chapter 24

    Chapter 24 бд Email

    I look on my laptop a bit but didn''t find anything of use. I spent some time looking for stuff about magic online but a lot of it I wasn''t sure I could trust. I mean half of it was so vague and lacking detail I couldn''t help but feel sorry for anyone who tried some of this stuff.

    It also made me kind of angry at other people for lying to others people like that and getting their hopes up. It was not fair to people who believe only to have their hope fall to lies. I knew how that felt.

    I stop after a few minutes as it was making me sad and I needed to do other things. Slowly I start finding some clean clothes and found some white jean and a long sleeve shirt with blue petal down the sleeve that was nice. It was also a bit bland. Maybe when I get a job I should go get new clothes. After all, they were all so dull; they didn''t stand out at all.

    But first I would need a job. I passed my A-level but I never got a degree in the end and I didn''t really know what I wanted to do. Maybe there was some kind of job I could try with magic now. I would have to ask Zoey if she would know somewhere to ask.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.

    Soon I also found a towel and soap I quickly stole a shower in Zoe''s bathroom as I didn''t have one and I heard Bane in the main bathroom and didn''t want to disturb her. I still feel like I was intruding on her space so I don''t want to get in her way.

    The shower was nice and I soon felt better and more awake after would. I then quickly dried and ran back to my room and changed into the clothes I got out earlier.

    It was about two hours later that I heard a knocking at my bedroom door. Well to the half napping me it sounded a bit more like a cannon going off.

    "Hey, Jade my friends are here soon if you want to meet them," Came Banes booming voice.

    "C... coming," I whispered but Bane ever didn''t hear or something because she then opened the door.

    "Sorry, just checking your still here. If you''d legged it then Zoe might have gotta mad. and I would have to find new roommates," she explained not looking very sorry about it at all.

    "It ok. When will they get..." I started to ask as a ''ding'' of a doorbell went off. I didn''t even know we had a doorbell.

    Bane quickly marched over to the door.

    It took about ten minutes for them all to arrive. All of each different from what I had been imagining completely. I was expecting biker or something.

    Not a half bird half human person. A nun with what looked like a rifle and a normal looking guy with a bald head and completely black eyes

 Chapter 25

    Chapter 25 бд More people

    It took a while for me come back my senses and close my mouth. Lucky it seemed that Bane friend hadn''t seen me as I was standing in the back corner of the living room.

    They were deftly odd people. A girl in dark nuns robe came first and hugged Bane coming to the same height. She had plain features with brown hairs and eyes the kind of person who you could walk past a hundred times and not think about. A large chain hangs from her neck with an odd golden symbol of a wing and sword crossings.

    Next was a man in a grey hoodie and black jogging bottoms. Coal black hair with a deep blue highlight didn''t seject that he was a guy to hide from attention. His dark eyes stood out with white iress that zipped over the room looking over every corner including the one I stood in. He didn''t comment. He stood in the doorframe before slowly steeping in. I felt like a small gust blew in from the doorway.

    Odd I didn''t feel a gust before in the hallway.

    Last was a half bird half human person. I say that because he... she... it was covered in rich red and gold feathers and a small shiny amber beak were the noes and mouth sat. They wore a simple t-shirt and jeans. They wore no shoes and insteada pair of talon scrapped on the floor. They had hand and also a set of wings on its back.Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.

    "Good to see you got a nice place this time," the bird person said. Their voice sounded like a whistle and with a few odd clicks after every few words.

    "What''s that met ta mean. My last place was fine you just didn''t like it because it was underground," Bane replied with crossed arms

    "Dear, it was infested with mould. I must say this is a much better nice view too," the nun lady commented now standing inside the flat.

    The guy just walked to the window almost next to me and nodded his head. His eyes didn''t move to me and stood still like a statute. Just looking out.

    "I guess it''s a little better. Still, the last place was cheaper but now I have Zoe to help with paying," Zoe said walking to the kitchen and grabbing some drink"oh yer. Jade stop creeping around."

    I slowly shuffle out of the corner saying meekly "umm hi."

    "Jades the new roomie. Zoe friend. Jade this is Susan, Steel and Tiki," Bane explained pointing first to the nun, then the guy and then to the bird last.

    It was the bird person who walked up first. "Nice to meet you as Bane said I''m Tiki," she clicked grabbing my hands from my side and shaking it in both of hers make me flinch. I tried to pull it back out of shock.

    I mean who just grabs someone. She has a weird grip those and I couldn''t pull out of it. Not only that but it the feathers on her hands felt super weird and not what I used to.

    "Tiki dear you''re scaring the poor girl," Susan warmly warned. She quickly almost pulled Tiki off me and reached out her hand "lovely to meet you. So nice to meet a new person these days."

 Chapter 26

    Chapter 26 бд Spark

    "Nice to meet you too," I whispered trying to sink back into the wall more.

    Tiki hopped back on one leg. " ok, ok. So you guy want to do something. I got that new card game."

    "We are not doing that again Tiki I think Bane almost broke the dining table," Susan said with an added eye roll.

    The day carries on slowly. We all sat down on the sofas with me sitting closer to Bane with Susan on the same sofa as well but on the opposite end. Tiki and Steel sat on the other sofa.

    They soon all started talking. Lucky they didn''t seem to look other at me much which I was just fine with. Most of what they said went over my head which sucked. First, they talk about other people and then about a guild that I think they worked for them to go on about their plans for what they called a dive. Even Steel spoke a few words but mostly just nodded.

    I could feel myself starting to go back into a daze as their talking turned into a humming background noise much like that of the now heavy sounding traffic outside. My head firmly in my hand I turn to the window. The sun had risen high now so that I couldn''t see it and only that of a few clouds poke throw the constricting towers. I closed my eyes to the world.

    <hr>

    Like the dripping of rain. I could hear it. I could feel it. Cool and endlessly flowing. The dripping was all around me. I open my eye.

    Tiny. The light was tiny. Like a pinprick. I look around at the tiny cave I stood in. My body was different. Undefined. I knew I was just a spark myself yet that didn''t worry me.If you encounter this story on Amazon, note that it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    I reach out to the tiny light only to find it blocked by a pond of endless water. Like an ocean inside a cave. I reached and I reached.

    Jade

    Like a tiny rinning bell I heard my name. I looked but I could not leave. I stood on my island of stone. It was safe.

    Jade

    I didn''t want to do.

    JADE

    <hr>

    I opened my eyes to see Bane friends looking at me while feeling a strong shaking on my should.

    "Jade your not dying on me. Please I can''t afford to get kick out of my new flat." Bane voice sounded next to me.

    "I was just sleeping," I muttered not caring if it was rude. My shoulder hurt from where she grabbed it.

    "You sure, your aura was going crazy. I''m not a great reader but I could fell that," she tried to explain while seeming to try and send a message to the over with her eyes.

    "Twisting, growing, shaping," came an oddly high-pitched voice from Steel. God, why did everyone have a weird name? Bane, Void, Steel sounds like a bad teen band. Why was I think about this now, stupid brain?

    "Yes, yes, best to check you ok. You are ok, right?" ask Tiki with a titled head which was oddly sweet and creepy at the same time.

    "I''m ok. But er not to sound dumb but what is an aura," I asked.

    "Well I''m not sure if we''re the best people to answer that it might weird you out a bit," Bane said letting go of my should and seeming to relax back into the sofa again.

    "Not to be mean but yesterday I had a knife also kill me..." I started

    "It was reaction," Bane snapped with a quick reply only for Susan to lightly smack Bane on one of her outstretch hands.

    "Bane don''t interrupt and stop nearly killing people. If you''re going to have a reaction to frow knives at least hit. Please carry on dear," she said

    "Um thanks," I replied starting to think maybe everyone in this group was a little too crazy for my liking, apart from Tiki she was just a bit too much for me at the moment. "Anyway, and I had lots of over stuff... which... um. Oh, I lost my point so just tell me already,"

    "Ok to put it plainly its like part of your soul is outside your body and yours is... trying to eat itself," Bane start to explain with a bored expression like she told people this a hundred times.

    I started to panic. Just a little

 Chapter 27

    Chapter 27 бд Penny dropped

    "I didn''t mean it like that Jade. Come out already," Bane called from the overside of the bathroom door.

    What was I changing into? I started at my reflection or what was meant to be me. I looked like me. It didn''t use to fell weird that I had changed much but now I didn''t know. Was I turning into something... monsters. I mean I looked nicer but if my soul was ''changing'' as Bane had said what if I become not me. My whole life was one big sad story and this was just another thing to add to it.

    And even now with all the things that had happened to me I still couldn''t control it. I still had no power. I had nothing. Even my own body and soul wasn''t mine.

    "Fuck you life," I whispered. I could feel tears roll off my cheek as my eyes burn.

    After a few seconds or maybe a few minutes I wiped the tears away.

    I had to find answers. I owned it for myself. And to Zoe. Turning to unlock the door; I walk out.

    Bane stood next to the door with Susan next to her worry on both their faces. Tiki stood nearby tapping on a phone only to look up and see me and stop with a small sigh. Steel was still on the sofa drinking out of a china teacup.This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

    "I''m... I''m sorry about that, I..." I started to say feeling embarrassed about breaking down like that when Bane clapped a hand on my should. It kind of hurt.

    "I''m the one who should be saying sorry. I could have explained it better. No, I shouldn''t have said anything at all. I''m no doctor of the soul I shouldn''t have freak you out like that," Bane said looking at me deeply. I felt start to feel my cheeks even more red.

    "I think I''m going to go to bed now," I replied with a squeak and quickly walked to my room shutting the door behind me.

    I looked so stupid. Why did I have to meet new people today? now I''m always going to be the freak out little girl to them.

    <hr>

    I sat in my room for the rest of the day. A got asked if I wanted anything to eat which I declined feeling bad for making them feel like they had to take care of me like some little kid.

    Later they said goodbye and went. I said goodbye and thanked them for being so nice.

    I spent the rest of the day on my laptop. I found a few fun things to do but most of the time I sat thinking about what to do now. Which is when I made a decision.

    <hr>

    It took a few hours but I heard the door open at about dusk. I poked my head out of my door to find Zoe standing there in the open doorway.

    I quickly walk over to her.

    "How were you da..." I started to say before she hugged me. I felt my body freeze.

    Her amber hair fell on my face like a sea of brown leaves and with the smell of smoke. Her body warm against me. I couldn''t tell if I was feeling heart mine beating.

    "Zoe I um... need to ask you for a favour. I um I... Zoe?" Muttered as I felt her weight increases. I felt my muscle start to weaken as she leaned on me.

    Then I couldn''t hold her any more.

 Chapter 28

    Chapter 28 бд Boo

    It took me a while to call Bane for help with Zoe''s body. Slowly we, more Bane, moved Zoe to the sofa. Lucky she seemed fine.

    "So what happened then. All I heard was a fud and then whimper," Bane commented look at me.

    "I just wanted to talk to Zoe about something so I went to the door and when she came in she, kind of, fell on me," I replied a bit bitterly. I mean I know I''m not that loud but it was hardly whimpering.

    Bane just nodded and uncrossed her arms. She walks next to Zoe and leaned closer. So close I could see Bane breath blowing the odd strand of Zoe amber hair.

    I suddenly felt odd. Like something oily and cold was waking in my chest trying to break out. I looked away as Bane leaned closer to Zoe''s face. What in the world is this feeling?

    I looked back. The closeness. It... annoyed me was the closest thing I could think of. What was Bane trying...

    "BOO," Bane suddenly yelled next to Zoe''s ear causing not just me too jump back into the wall but also Zoe to suddenly wiggled on the sofa like a fish out of water.

    "What the hell. Why are you shouting I''m napping," Zoe complained loudly as she seemed to work out what was going on?

    "Good job miss sleeping beauty you fell asleep on Jade. In the doorway," Bane said with an eye roll.The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    "Oh. Sorry I guess. I mean I didn''t mean too it just I had a load of paperwork and I had to run back and I got so sleepy I super didn''t mean to," Zoe babbled now sitting up and looking at me while I rubbed the back of my head where I bumped it.

    "It''s ok," I whisper back

    "No, it''s not, I could have hurt you," she urged.

    I stopping rubbing my head at that. I mean I know I''m weak but I''m not that weak.

    "I''m not a kid I''m not that puny," I muttered.

    "What''s that," ask Bane

    "Nothing, nothing. Just wanted to ask Zoe a favour," I muttered coming closer "um, I kind of need to go see my uncle and I wanted to know if, well, um I don''t think it would be a good idea to go on my own and well... could you come with me, please?" I asked.

    It felt super weird to ask. I didn''t want to take any more of her time but I didn''t want to be on my own. I knew I had to ask him about why my brain seeming to suddenly be having a breakdown. I just needed him to confirm I was just having weird dreams and there was nothing behind them I should know about. I just needed to be sure.

    "Hmm, I would love to Jade but I need to go to an auction and I need to go. If you can wait a day I can come with you," She explained looking even more guilty making me feel like a bad guy.

    "No I can wait," I said waving my hands. I didn''t want her feeling sad when I owned her so much already.

    "Great," Zoe exclaimed jumping up with a smile "you can come with me then."

    "What like... to the auction but won''t there be lots of people there?" I asked now taking a step back.

    "It will be fine. If you come with me then I will go with you to see you uncle k," she said with a happy nod.

    I look at Bane with pleading eyes. She raised her hands and gave me a look that seemed to say ''not my problem''. Great. I gave her a sad look before turning back to Zoe.

    "Ok, I guess," I muttered hanging my head I defeat.

    "Yay," was all I heard before I was engulfed in a warm hug. At first, I stiffen but slowly I loosed up but to slow to enjoy the hug as she let me go after that. "We have to go in the morning as I have some stuff to do there but I got this for you,"

    I look up to see her pull a bag from out of fin air before handing it to me.

 Chapter 29

    Chapter 29 бд Getting ready

    She must have planned it. There is no way she couldn''t have not planned it.

    I stood in front of Zoe''s bathroom mirror looking at the dress Zoe had gotten me. The dark green pencil dress, while it was nice, made me feel like this event was more then Zoe let on.

    Slowly and stiffly I changed into the green dress. I had never had a want for clothes or fashion in general but when I finally got changed and looked at the mirror I had to say I liked it. The dress seemed to fit perfectly which was a bit creepy maybe Zoe had been going through my clothes. note to self: get a lock for my door. It lucky wasn''t that standout and went below my knees.

    Thinking about it I might have to grab some tights with the weather outside still being bitter and the wind like ice razors. Looking in the bag they seemed to be a pair of matching of dark green high heels that had tiny diamond-like speaks on the tips. I look at myself again checking I had it on correctly and there was no label, which was removed when I found them before I walk out the bathroom.

    I stepped into Zoe''s room which was still filled with moving boxes. I quickly found Zoe standing in the corner her back to me, muttering under her breath. I walk up slowly trying not to slip in my new shoe.This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.

    "I''m done," I whispered tapping her shoulder from behind, still not sure what she was doing.

    "Oh ok, great, give me a sec," Zoe grasp seeming to jump a little and quickly stuffing something in her pocket.

    She turned to face me. I looked at the new clothes she wore with a loose red shirt and then down at the black formal trouser and then the pair of trainer''s she was wearing. I looked down at my dress then back at her.

    "Why am I wearing a dress and you have a suit?" I asked feeling my cheek turn pink and feeling a bit dum in my clothes now.

    "Well Void said I had to dress smart and I always end up with my dress getting torn or burn or something so I can never wear them. I hate it that I have to wear stupid formal stuff but I only have to do it one more time thank fates. You don''t mind do you?" Zoe explained

    "No it ok but I kind of feel a bit dum wearing this like a kid," I replied rubbing my hand and looking down at the floor trying not to let Zoe see my now bright cheeks.

    I felt the touch on my chin. Her hand was soft as she pulled my head up. I could see her eyes look into mine.

    "I think you look cute," Zoe said making my mouth feel dry and my knees weaken.

    "I... um.." I try to say something but my mouth felt weird like when you sleep on something weirdly. Dam brain why are you doing this.

    "Sorry if you don''t want to wear it but I do love cute clothes but they never fit me and Bane will not let me use her. I''m sorry if you want I wouldn''t do it anymore if that what you want,"

    "NO ''cough'', I mean no its... I like it," I half shouted, half muttered.

    "Great. Just let me do my make-up and then I can do you k," was all Zoe said before she skipping into the bathroom and shut the door.

    Wait did she say make-up. Oh please whatever god is out there save me

 Chapter 30

    Chapter 30 бд Arriving

    The taxi was deadly silent as I and Zoe sat inside. It was her fault for trying to put make-up on me. I let her play with my face for what felt like hours and I didn''t know it would come off.

    I mean it may have been a little my fault as she did tell me not to wipe my face but face platting you face into a pillow isn''t the same as wiping it.

    I looked over to see Zoe still pouting and keeping herself busing playing a game on her phone, at least she didn''t have the sound that loud.

    In the end, Zoe had to get a new pillowcase and redo my make-up which was more of a punishment for me then it was for her but I still felt guilty about it.

    I looked out the window to see the sun just going past midday. It seemed a little early for an auction but then I had never been to one before so I couldn''t really know. I turn back to Zoe

    "so um, what time is this auction meant to be at?" I muttered to Zoe trying to start a conversation to get rid of this tenses feeling. Also, I kind of wanted to pry a bit more into what her involvement with it she had. I''m English I''m meant to be nosey.

    "Its meant to start at five," Zoe began "but first their food and drink, then their item viewing, then people have to be seated. Its a right pain or so some of staff tell me."

    "So is it far away then?" I asked looking at the sun still high up even in winter. Or is it spring now; well it still felt like winter.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.

    "No love just ten minutes even with the traffic," came the ruff voice of our driver who had a cockney voice from the front.

    "So why are we going so early?" I asked Zoe turning to her. I felt weird talking to someone I don''t know.

    "I have some stuff to sort out there. More paperwork," Zoe complained sticking her tongue out "but it''s ok you can look at all the cool stuff while we are there, k."

    I just nodded. I didn''t really want to spend too long without Zoe but if she trusted where we were going then I guess it will be ok. I hope it doesn''t take her too long mind.

    It didn''t take long for us to pull up next to a large marble bank-like building with large grey pillars filled with flecks of what looked like gold almost embedded inside. Large tinted glass door stook opens into a red-carpeted and curtains room.

    we, I mean Zoe, pay the driver and to said goodbye with a "Tar, thanks for picking a cabbie," before I was dragged up the stair to the door by Zoe. I almost slipped a few time thanks to almost never wearing heals even if they were only so high.

    We soon came to the doors that opened wide. Stepping inside I found a lobby with three people at in the middle of the room standing behind a worn wooden desk. Around then sat small tables with old wooden chairs that had red cushions built into them.

    The walls still had a marble quily to them and looking up higher I could see a detailed carved patterns and looking closer I could see tiny images of creatures imprinted into it. Unfountly I didn''t have time to look at them as Zoe was pulling me along to the desk in the middle of the room.

    "Hello, my name is June is there something I can help you with?" Came the almost robot voice of the closes receptionist.

    "Yeah, I''m here with Void to see the, oh gods what their name, the director person."

    "Of course miss. May I have your name and the name of your friend please?" the receptionist asked.

    "Okay, its Zoe and this is Jade," replied Zoe still holding my arm.

 Chapter 31

    Chapter 31 бд Spider

    I and Zoe had been sitting at one of the wooden tables waiting and watching the odd staff member walk past or wipe the already spotless table down. A few people that weren''t wearing the same uniform as the staff walking in and while some went down one of the corridors at the end of the resection a few sat down at table seeming to wait until a staff member approach them.

    I try to not look at the people coming in making sure to avoid eye contact. I slowly shuffled my chair so as to have Zoe''s body blocking me from view more. I''m still not happy being in a place so filled with busy people, I felt like a trapped bug. I could almost hear the odd sharp whisper which I was sure was were not my imagination.

    Finally, I hear the clicking of footsteps head towards our table and I was not the only one. Zoe tucked her phone away and stood up half yawning into one hand and nodded her head at the footsteps.

    "That''s us, we best get moving," Zoe half-whispered to me as she started to turn to walk to the clicking.

    I quickly stood up and shuffled behind Zoe while trying to see who it was we were meant to be meeting. I look around and for a second fault, my eyes were playing tricks on me. Looking down the hall we were in I could see the shape of to fighter walking toward us at a slow pace. One stood a skinny human guy with longish black hair and eyes a sky blue looking down at a clipboard in hand while quickly talking to the lady next to him. He wore a simple white shirt with black formal trouser and seemed to be about 20 or so.

    However, the lady he spoke to was a different story. Her face had dyed pink hair that fell to her chest while having simple brown eyes. Her face looks young like that of a person in their teen''s with smooth soft looking checks. She also wore a white shirt but had a frill running down it however it was tight against her... large and oversized midsection. That is the similarities to human stopped, well I guess her chest size was a bit inhuman as well as I try to stop my brain from comparing my own flattish chest.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    Standing on eight black spider legs and her chest meeting to the backend of a giant spider body she must have stood almost double my height. Her black abdomen was as long as a small car. Simple brown clothing covered her spider end most of her back apart from a small pink mark that stood on the top of her back.

    I tried to stop but Zoe kept walking on like this was a normal everyday thing and I couldn''t find the will power to leave her side.traitorouslegs. Soon we stood face to face.

    "So sorry Zoe it''s been a nightmare I would have come sooner but it''s like everything falling apart. No, no I must stop complaining. How are things with... " the giant spider lady started seeming to drop on her belly to react the same hight as Zoe, then her eyes s fell on me "oh who''s this cutie, you didn''t say you were dating."

    "Woo, woo we''re not dating," Zoe stammered quickly shaking her head which made me feel a bit... cold. Dam brain, first my legs now you, traitor all of you.

    "So you''re single. Nice to meet you I''m Scarlett. You want to grab a drink sometime," she asked turning to me and smiling.

    I stood there staring at her. I couldn''t help it my brain had just melted. I couldn''t help but look at her and question if she was sincere.

    She looked down at me in confusion then in... delightfulness.

    "I''m sorry," she started, at which I breathed a sigh of relief which I quickly regretted, "you must want to check my features."

    She quickly leaned towards me placing her oversized chest in front of me " you can feel then if you like," she said still smiling.

    "Scarlett do that in your time and not to a guest!" Came to the voice of a heavy English male voice as the man next to Scarlett suddenly spoke up his face now red with a mix of anger and embarrassment " take Zoe to the meeting now and we will talk about this later."

    "Ok, see you later cutie," Scarlett replied with only a slight bit of regret in her voice before she started to walk away with Zoe jogging to keep up.

    "I am so sorry about that miss Jade was it?" He asks what I gave a small nod to "she''s just come back from her nest and it''s in her culter to... well it no excuses please take this,"

    He reaches into one of his pockets and brought out a small silver card.

 Chapter 32

    Chapter 32 бд Lost

    "Again please accepted my deepest apology," he said standing there holding the card to me. I stood there not sure what to do. Zoe had just left me with this guy and my brain was still trying to catch up with what was happening.

    "Please miss its the most I can offer if you wish to make a formal complaint you can but she only just got back. Also, it will take up to two weeks to a year to proses so it''s more in your benefit," he carried on pushing the card in front of me.

    I could make out more details now I looked closer. The card seemed to a silver foil with a purple logo in the corner. The logo looked like a crown of some kind and on the over corner, a golden five hundred seemed to dimly glow.

    "O... ok," I whispers taking the little card. I still had no clue what it was.

    The man''s faces seemed to relax as I took the card.

    "Thank you miss, is there anything less you need," he asked stepping back.

    I looked behind him to see if I could spot were Zoe had gone but I failed to see her anywhere.

    "I um came were with Zoe and I don''t really know..." I tried to explain but I felt my mouth almost locking up and my body starts to shake. I hadn''t been with a stranger on my own in years and I didn''t know what was going on or where I was heading.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

    I stood there fiddling with my pockets and trying to avoid looking at him. I felt stupid like a lost kid.

    "Would you like me to find the lady you were with early," he asked his voice hesitant.

    I nodded back. I heard a quiet sigh as he held his hand out.

    "If you would please miss. The halls can get quite busy at a time like this." He asked. I slowly reached out a took his hand and then we walked.

    Down one corridor then the next, then an another, into a doorway, a new hall, upstairs going on and on. I felt myself get dizzy almost sick and as I tried to focuses on the walls we walked past I felt myself almost get pulled off my feet by the man as he carried on leading me.

    We filly stopped outside a plain doorway almost like the ones you would see in hotels. I lean next to it trying to breathe as my vision stopped swimming. I tried to stand when I felt a hand on my shoulder push me back in place against the wall.

    "It''s best not to try and stand until you are sure you can. Fast travel is never fun to use but it sure does save time," came the voice of the guy again however I was sure I could hear a note of weakness in his voices too. I tried to nod but regretted it quickly. Now I felt even worse.

    "This is a private meeting so it''s best if you wait here for now. I will ask the lady, is there anything you want me to ask specifically." He asked

    "I don''t think so," I replied trying my best not to fall over. God, I felt like an idiot for being this way but I couldn''t help it I just didn''t know much of anything about what was going on.

    "I will only be a moment miss," he explained while tapping on the door and sliding in a second later.

 Chapter 33

    Chapter 33 бд Panic

    I stood there. Alone in the hall. I couldn''t move apart from the odd shiver. I felt the still unmoving air. I heard it. Quite at first but slowly, oh ever so slowly, with every second I waited it grew.

    First, it sounded far, far away like a distant bell ring and ring with a terrible unearthly cry. Like a poison, it courses thrower me, sickening, feasting.

    I tried to make it stop. I truly did but still, it steeple into me. I held my ears, I tried to ignore it, I begged for help but that had always been my greatest weakness I could never cry or scream. Only whisper and whimper.

    Broken.

    I fell. My legs giving way to my weakness. I heard the voice but the ringing drowned it out. Everlasting screams. Cold empty whispers.

    Slowly. Slowly I breathed. In, out, again and again.

    My eyes focused. The screams seemed to seep away. I fell cool air blow over me as I looked around.

    I seemed to be in some kind of board room. Gray carpeted floors and slick white walls. I seemed to be sitting next to a large table which was surrounded by uncomfortable looking office chairs. Like normal office chairs but with even less back support.

    "Oh thank God''s," came a hurry male voice.You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

    I looked over to see the same staff member from earlier red-faced a sweaty pouring a large glass of water and quickly striding over to me.

    "Miss are you feeling quite alright, you ''cough'' seemed to have some form of minor panic attack?" he asked seemed to scan me over beforehand the water to me.

    I had what? I tried to remember what had just happened. I had been standing in the hallway before I felt like a wave of something had hit me. I looked around and down at myself.

    I seemed fine. I mean I feel my heart racing but its been doing that a lot as of late. I could hardly remember that feeling anymore, the suffocating one I had felt just moments before. I didn''t like it, that feeling. I want, no need, to think of something else.

    I flicked my head back to the man "did Zoe say anything to you about me?" I asked as loud as I could try my hardest not to remember what had just happened.

    "Miss are you sure you''re ok you seemed to..." he started before I stopped him.

    "I''m fine please I just want to know," I said. He looks at me and I took a long sip of the water to restore him. He seemed to calm a bit and took out a bit of cloth to wipe his brow.

    "Very well, your acquaintance suggested that I show you the viewing room, oh, and she also said that she was sorry she left you she forgot," he explained

    I felt better and worse after hearing that. I felt better than I somewhat had a goal now but at the same time a little sad. Had she forgotten about me just like everyone else seemed to or was it that it was just she didn''t want me around her work?

    No, it must just be that she was being forgetful. Maybe she was thinking about work. I mean it was Zoe she wouldn''t leave me without a reason. She couldn''t. I need her to remember me.

    "Miss, if you feel well I would be more than grateful to show you are viewing rooms. There is an auction for some of them as well later if you are attending," he addressed me knocking me out of my whirlpool of ideas.

    I nodded as he opens the door back into the hallway I had been in before. I stood up with only a tiny wobble and follow him out

 Chapter 34

    Chapter 34 бд Viewing room

    I felt like my legs were going to weather to nothing. We had been walking for at least what felt like an hour before we got to a large museum-like room.

    I had asked after walking down repeating plain hallways and walkways why we didn''t use the fast travel and my guide had explained he was not happy to overuse it. I felt like it was more likely because he fears he would harm me which to be far it might have done.

    But it was still better than my now jello legs. I looked up to view the room

    The hall stood large and open. Wooden tables and glass stands were laid out spaced in such a way that many people could view them but also walk around freely. The room itself was some kind of grey brick walling with plain carpet on the floor. Tall, thin fogged glass windows were letting in an orange-tinted white light of the evening sun.

    I could see the odd person or couple in the room. Most were older and they all seemed to be wearing formal clothing. Nothing too fancy but smart nonetheless. An odd cough or muttering could be heard but for the most part, the only sound was a quite plucking of, what sounded like, a harp of some kind.

    It was peaceful but at the same time felt empty. Maybe it was the lack of noise from traffic or the rush of people who you tend to find in London.

    I walk forwards following a small paper sign stuck to a table with a large number one printed on it and an arrow pointing now the display tables. I could hear the soft footfalls of my guide behind me as I stepped closer to the table.

    Looking down I could see lots of large stone tablets that look ancient with a language I could understand written on it. Under these tablets, I could see a small card under it.This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.

    Name: dial of s?ytly (1 of 4 set)

    Age: 1500 - 1650 A.D.

    Info: unknown finder. This clay tablet is from the sixth island of the current Keepford islands from a temple of the s?ytly culture. For more info please ask staff.

    Effects: N/A

    Starting price: бъ 2000

    I had no idea about who the hell the s?ytly are but for that price, they must be important or maybe people here had the cash to splash. I could almost feel my mouth dry thinking about spending that money on some old clay ''dial''.

    "I believe that we have three of that set of sale today if you wish I could get you some more information on such items if you wish," came my guide''s voice making me jump as I haven''t heard him approach my side.

    I looked at him to find him with an unfazed faced. I couldn''t help but feel poor at the sound of that if only one of these things cost so much how much do three cost. Also what happened to the fourth. I looked back to see him still standing there waiting for I guess a reply.

    "Um, I''m ok, thanks. Is there anything... cheaper, maybe?" I asked trying not to sound too desperate.

    "Of course, is there anything you like. We have a somewhat open house auction today so we have a large selection of products for sale," he asked seeming not to mind my, what I was fairly sore, easy to read panic. I mean for all I know they might kick me out for not having any money to hand then I would be on my own again...

    "Miss, do you have an ideal price range," he asked snapping me back to the now.

    I knew I had a little from Uncle but I needed that for rent and I hadn''t had a chance to see how much I had yet so best not to rely on that. Maybe Zoe was going to buy something then they wouldn''t throw me out then would they, if I was with her.

    "Maybe something... small or useful," I said. I was just trying to sound like I knew what I was doing. When my guide face lit up slightly I felt like I have said the right thing.

    "Such items as trinkets or gifts perhaps," he asked happily which I quickly nodded my head too.

    He seemed to stop for a second before turning and walking with a slight skip to his step, signalling me to follow. I guess some people just really love their jobs.

    We walked down past bottles of wines, large handing tapestry, odd gear construction and many other old and odd things that stood out against all the other items of interest

 Chapter 35

    Chapter 35 бд Leaks

    We soon walked to the over the end of the hall. There seemed to be a few more people down this end but nothing about them seemed to catch my eye. Luckily I didn''t seem to catch any of there attention also, which I gave a silent thanks for.

    We soon came to a stop next to display table filled with many small items, each in their own little box which I felt was a little odd as it seemed to waste a lot of room.

    "Why are they in boxes like that?" I asked as we approached them.

    "That miss is to stop any mana leaks and also to act as a safety feature. They are quiet effect at stopping the odd thieve," my guide explained with a few nods.

    "Mana leaks? Like magic leaking," I asked now getting a better look at the items inside the boxes.

    Item''s from large ruby rings to a leaf thin knife that looked more like a letter opener. All manner of small trinkets sat in front of me, all under glass, polished and sparkling.

    "Yes, when an item is enchanted depending on such things as the spell infused and the material used it can cause an item to have mana leaks. This is were the power overflow but it can also be how the item draws in power. Anyway, the greater the leaks the more chaotic the wild mana in the air around you becomes. As you can imagine that can cause some quiet... interesting effect there''s some quite funny story''s of lords being tricked into buying to many enchanted items and..." he seemed to realise that he had lost me as I looked at him blankly, "Anyway as I was saying it can be quiet bad and small items often are affected the worst."Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.

    "Ok... so is there a way to know how much is... bad," I asked trying to take in the load of information I just received.

    "Well are items here are on the universal measurement. That means that they have there own rating on a score of twenty, I would recommend ten as the highest safe score.

    I nodded. I still had no clue what half of what he just said was but I guess going above ten is bad for some reason.

    I quickly turn back to the items hoping that I can work the rest out on my own. It really was quite cool seeing all the different stuff there and thankful it all was a lot cheaper than before but still costly.

    Quite a few of them were a bit boring like a selection of pens that never ran out of ink however I''m sure I would lose that in a few days and for two-hundred pounds it was not worth it also a spoon that would heat, I guess to eat cold foods but even all you needed was to not leave your normal spoon in the cold to do that.

    Next was items that were just plain weird like a tissue that was always wet for only fifty pounds, my guide told me they really want to get rid of that one as it was a nightmare to store. Then there was a metal blue ball that always stays at a level, while it wasn''t on display there was a small pitcher and a warning telling the buy ''not on site must pickup at other warehouses''.

    However, there were a few cool little items.

    "Erm, can I ask what this one is priced at?" I asked pointing down at it.

 Chapter 36

    Chapter 35 бд Little blue wings

    "Well miss that item is at the starting price of three hundred earth sterling pounds and will be sold later for an estimated five hundred however I can place a pre-bid value but it will come with a deposit," my guide explained as I looked down at the silver knife.

    "Yes, I know... just...," I muttered trying to think of a good excuse but finding none I just gave up. I mean I already look like an idiot why bother hiding the fact that I don''t really know too well what''s going on.

    I looked back at the knife to stare at it sadly. Not like I could have gotta it anyway but it would have been nice to pretend I knew what I was doing. Guess that backfired. I read the text again under it.

    Name: swift blade

    Age: (unused) 2017

    Info: This 10 by 2 cm blade is made to change from bracelet to knife and is easy to wield with a speed rune to increase impact and movement. This blade will never need to be sharpened.

    Effects:

    speed rune (1)

    Shifting rune(2)

    Sharpening enchantment (0)

    Mana leak: 3

    Starting price: please ask staff

    I look around at the other items for sale that caught my eye. There was a few of them like a ring that recorded sounds but it was going for two thousand, so nope.This tale has been unlawfully obtained from Royal Road. If you discover it on Amazon, kindly report it.

    Next was a box that stored as the card said ''fruits of wondering''. While I don''t know what that is I kind of wanted to find out. It said a hundred pound but when I asked he said that there was a price of four hundred pre-bid on it.

    "Why this one so cheap," I asked to find a small butterfly brooch sitting at the very end of the table. Its small silver body was mixed with blue glass wings so thin they looked like they would break if touched. A small pin attached to its back as a way, I guess, to clip onto a person.

    "Well miss its very unstable for its the use while also being more cosmetic then of practical use," he explained with a hand guesser.

    I looked at the card under it.

    Name: blue wing butterfly (glass)

    Age: unknown

    Info: This small item can project a blue glow and also lets the user send one-word messages to known living people. All message is one way.

    Effects:

    Projection rune (3)

    Light rune (1)

    Message enchantment (4)

    Mana leak: 7

    Starting price: бъ50

    I spent what must have been a few hours just walking around the hall. I felt like the more I walked the more there was to see however I knew the building was only so big when I was looking at it outside.

    My guide stays by my side the whole time. He seemed to be happy just to stand nearby until needed. As time went on more people seemed to come into the hall slowly filling it up, these people seemed while somewhat interested in the items on display, they mostly seemed to wish to chat and look at others around them. I felt a few odd eyes fall on me.

    I felt that creeping fear slowly growing. I think its time I move on.

 Chapter 37

    Chapter 37

    "Um, is there somewhere else we can go?" I asked my guide as even more people started flooding the room.

    "Of course, if you like we can go to the cafeteria on site or you may wish to visit the local parks if that is to your liking," he replied without missing a beat.

    I nodded before asking "is there a bank nearby?"

    "We have a small bank on-site. Its cash-machine let you outlet money from most known bank branches," he explained "Would you like me to show you,"

    I nodded, following behind him as he leads me to the exit and also near the crowds. We got closer to the point where I could hear them, muttering, wisping, gasping. I could feel the stares, bitter, the words burning my ears, lies, the air thin and void of movement, dreadful.

    I tried not to look at them. At those eyes. I gripped my hands together. I had too. I had to Incase I touched them. They might think me a thief, I wouldn''t blame them. Who would ever trust someone like me?

    I followed, weaving between the walls of people. I tried. I looked for my guide but he was so much faster than me. I felt my eyes move from him for a second, then he was gone. Sinking into the waves of people. This was a nightmare.

    I looked around trying to find him but I couldn''t and the walls of people move. Like a great storm, they crash against me. The pounds of my heart like thunder. I was drowning in my own fear, my weakness. I was always alone, I was always weak.If you discover this tale on Amazon, be aware that it has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. Please report it.

    "My, my what do we have here," I felt my body press against something else. No, someone else.

    "I''m... I''m sorry," I tried to say. My mouth was dry, my words hardly audible. I tried to pull away but felt a grip on my hand keeping me in place.

    I looked to see a white-gloved hand holding my wrist. I felt its grip like cold steel.

    Suddenly it felt like a weight was removed from my chest. Like the parting of the clouds, the fear disappeared. I felt a cool wave flow into me. An image of a calm pond filled with floating motes of light. Tiny speaks like a night sky reflected on the still water. But as I looked closer I felt uneasy. It was too calm.

    "Why brother, are you that desperate for attention that you have fallen for stealing children now. I knew I should leave you at home, a dog like you should not be allowed near poor pure maiden," came a monotone female voice that knocked me out of my sudden... vision.

    I turned to find two white hair people behind me. The owner of the white gloves seemed to be a tall man. The large shoulder has him a wide frame but his hight made him look almost lanky. Long silver hair was tried into a ponytail that mixed with his equally pale skin like that of porcelain. Deep blood red eyes glowed at me as he reached down.

    "So sorry if I frightened you, my dear," he said sitting on one knee before he... kissed my hand. I didn''t know what to do. I mean... what. That only happens in crappy movies, right.

    "Brother, I should lock you up for being such a dog," came that same female voice.

    I looked to see a woman standing next to this... as she said ''dog''. She stood only a little taller than me with the same red eyes and white hair but hers was much shorter only going up to the neck in small circles at the end. She wore a black dress with lacing flowing down it.

    See looked board almost like a... kid.

 Chapter 38

    Chapter 38 бд Fast walk

    I stood there shocked. Was everyone a weirdo or was I just attracting them? My life had gone from empty to I don''t even know anymore.

    "Ow sis, you need to learn to share or you will never get a good husband," the guy currently hold my hand complained as the girl, I guess sister, hit him over the head.

    As he said this he stood up, still holding my hand. With a wink, he said to me "Anyway when do I get to meet such a wonder as you."

    I didn''t know what was going on. Here stood a somewhat good looking guy I guess trying to flirt with me while his kid sister was pummelling his back. The fuck is this, a bad manga?

    Thankful I save. With the sound of quick footsteps, my guide reappear with a red face and a horrified expression.

    "Miss, oh thank goodness I found you. I''m so sorry for my lack of... oh lady Edlin and sir Edlin," he started before taking in the scene before him then looking back to my dumbfounded face "yes.. as I was saying miss we really must rush before you miss your meeting if you would excuse us."

    He, my guide, quickly pulled me away from the odd pare and the now very heavy crowd that all seemed to be slowly peeled off to look around the halls.Stolen from its original source, this story is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    He soon leads me down a few hallways until I could see what looked to be almost a shopping centre with coffee shops and I think even a hairdresser store.

    "How is this place so big?" I asked looking about. It was like a mini city inside of just one building.

    "Oh yes, the owner uses domain magic or so I have been told. If we head down this way then we should make it the bank," my guide replied walking at a raver fast pace.

    I hurry to keep up but slowly I felt my stamina start to drain and my muscle locking up. Why was he walking so fast? Did he have to go somewhere maybe?

    I look over at him to see he too was slightly panting and seemed to be taking an odd glance behind us every few steps.

    "Why are we ''phff'' going so fast," I manage to muster. I really need to start working out.

    "Well miss to be truthful and please don''t tell anyone I said this but I have heard the odd word or two from my co-workers. They have said that those two you were talking too, to put it lightly ''are too much to handle'' and I don''t mean to disrespect them but I like my job here," he quickly commented.

    I tried to reply but I couldn''t with how much my lungs were hurting. I want to ask what was so bad about them but I guess if they''re anything like how they were to me I could kind of see his point.

    With us going at a slight run, ok more of a fast walk but it felt like a run to me, we quickly arrived at the bank. I could thank the massive ''bank of the hammer'' sign hanging above the glass doors to work that out. Unlike most of the building, this place seemed to have a much more modern setup with a blue carpet and plastic chairs.

    A small queue was standing in front of a counter and slowly it was shuffling forwards. I quickly tried to slip into the end of the queue as quietly as I could. I didn''t want to stand out again or who knows what weirdo I will find or rather find me.

 Chapter 39

    Chapter 39 бд Balance

    The line move fairly quickly, that was until some little old lady got to the front. Looking at the old dear and the guy at the desk didn''t know who to feel sorrier for as the guy tried to explain some form to the lady.

    At last, it was my go. I walk over to the desk and handed over my card. It was one of the only things I had with me since I had no phone or pursue. As I felt in my pocket I felt my card but also a secondary card. Pulling them both out I found the bank card that my uncle had given me and the silver card my guide had given me. I really need to ask what that was about.

    I look around to see my guide a few feet away next to the door seemly waiting for me to be done.

    "Came I help you?" Came the voice of the cashier.

    I jump a little and quickly handed my card to him. He looks over it and replied with " we can do transactions with this but it will come with a two-pound payment charge."

    I quickly nodded.

    "st... statement," I half asked, half stumbled. I felt hands do a mad random twitch stand here without knowing what I was doing. I wish I had checked my account online like I normally did.

    "Of course," he replied taking my card. He clicked away on his computer before printing a sheet of paper.

    "Here you go," he replied hand it to me with a card " anything else for you miss today."If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

    I shook my head and shuffled to a corner. I quickly put my card away and looked at the paper he had given me.

    Account amount:

    ''бъ2,000''

    Well, shit. That was more then I fault there would be. Oh dam it.

    I forgot to ask how much the rent was for the flat. I guess it must be kind of expensive considering its in the middle of London and it was big compared to my old flat. I looked back at the account details.

    I guess it made sense for my uncle to send me this much. I did say I would be staying in a hotel and I think he would have died if I had to sleep someone that he would class ''low standard''.

    I guess that all I needed to do for now. I just had to get thew this auction. Easy, I hope.

    "Ready miss," came my guide''s voice after I walk back over to him. I gave a quick nod "well miss is there anywhere you would like to head to,"

    "Um, would you know if Zoe meeting would be over by now?" I asked hoping that I could just follow her around for however long this took.

    "Sorry, miss but I have not been informed of it ending and I have already requested to be so when it does end. If you like there are many shops around here if you wish to look," he said with a jester to the door of the bank back into the, I guess, shopping centre.

    "Is there somewhere... quite?" I asked with a look at the short queue of people as I tried to edge around my guide to put him between us. I didn''t like the way one guy was looking at me.

    He gave a quick nod before leading me to a small half book shop, half cafe. I quickly order and paid with my card before finding a corner out of sight of the main street.

    The shop itself was a little stale and smelled of coffee and old books. White bookshelves held books around the walls while the last of the evening light seemed to be trailing in from a small skylight. It was... nice I guess.

    Buzz buzz,

    A slight buzzing sound suddenly came from my guides pocket who has stood next to my table and had even brought the tray with my drink, mint hot chocolate, over for me.

    "Oh drat," came the hushed voice of my guide.

 Chapter 40

    Chapter 40 бд Rabbit hole

    My guide looks down at the little glowing plate on his belt. It seemed to glow slightly and vibrate. He seemed to stare at it for a few second and raised a hand to his head and gave a long sigh.

    "I''m sorry miss but I''m afraid I have to... take care of a different matter. The actuation starts within the next hour I believe if you would like I can have someone come later to take you there," he explains with an expression of I guess sadness and maybe a bit of annoyance.

    "Hmm ok," I replied. I looked around the little shop cafe... place... thing. It was peaceful. Also, I had felt weirdly sleepy since I stop looking at the display items. Maybe it was the run.

    "So sorry miss but I have to go now. Its been a pleasure," he quickly said with a little bow before wooshing out the door. I meant like one second he was there then there was a gush before the door open and he was gone. I looked at the now empty space where he had been stand.

    Magic. Still super weird but at least it was useful if you''re in a rush I guess.

    Well, guess I got an hour free. I sat in the little leather chair with my drink sitting on the table. I reach and took a sip.

    "Ow," I whispered as I slipped to much and I felt the hot liquid burn the top of my tongue.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

    I put my drink back down letting it cool and to let my tongue to regain some of its senses. I kind of just sat there for a while after that. I don''t really know what to do. I mean I found it kind of interesting to see all this weird stuff but none of it really I understood and the few I did I feel like I can just use my computer for.

    Oh well soon this will hopefully be over then I can go see my uncle and maybe he can explain some of this and then...

    well, I guess I find out what comes next after I''ve talked to him. mean I need to get a job. I don''t want to live off some else money forevermore it felt wrong like I was taking advantage of my uncle. I also still needed a way to pay Zoe back for helping me with, that.

    That also brought up a new problem. I couldn''t just go up to my uncle and say I''m having these weird dream and I can''t seem to remember important stuff about my own family. Oh, and magic real by the way''. I can''t see that going well. It sounded like how Zoe would explain it. Maybe she was rubbing off on me.

    Not that I would mind that.

    I shook my head. I shouldn''t go down this rabbit hole. I will just have to see how it went.

    I look at the shelves of books and the little sign saying ''please help yourself''. I look over them all. There were lots; some old, some new, overs worn and some that had a layer of dust on them that would suggest they had never been read. I scan them but they didn''t seem to be in any type of order so I just picked one at random.

    It seemed to be some kind of fantasy book. Or was it fantasy now, I mean magic real so does that make it still fantasy? I only half read it as I tried not to think about my murky future.

    <hr>

    But I don''t want to get up.

    "Go way," I half whisper as I heard the voice.

    "Please, I''m here to take you to the auction," I heard the voice again. It was male but light and airy like a whistle of wind rustling leaves. I slowly peel my eyes to see a cute blue skin man crouching next to me.

    "But I''m still dream," I muttered.

    Then I remembered.

 Chapter 41

    Chapter 41 бд Secret technique

    Why. Do. I. Have. To. Run. Everywhere.

    I was currently chasing the thin blue guy who had awoke me to take me to the auction hall or so he had said. He also said lots of other things. In fact he didn''t stop talking.

    It was why we were probably now late.

    Luckily or unlucky he was also as thin as me and seemed somehow even more unfit then me.

    "Should be just around the corner," came his voice as he starts to slow to a light jog.

    I slowed down as we reach the corner and I see her. The bright hair, the warming smile. I felt myself stop just for a second.

    Maybe a second too long as I felt my feet tangle and I saw the floor coming up. I should be used to this by now.

    I waited. And waited. But the flood of pain never came. I crack my eyes open. Just a bit. It also when I heard the giggles.

    "You can open your eyes, you know. I won''t drop you," came Zoe''s voice between the odd giggles. I felt her arm on my side holding me up.

    I looked to see her standing next to me.

    "But how, you were?" I looked at the space a good few feet away that she had been standing before I had tripped. There was no way she had ajump that quickly to stop my fall.Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work!

    I look up at her. Only to realise how close I was. Zoe was leading down, her face next to mine. Her breath tingling my nose. Her eyes glowed. No for real they were glowing with tiny sparks that seemed to blink in and out of focus. The warmth of the body was electrifying. Or maybe it was me. I hadn''t realized how much I want.. no relied on her.

    The cheeks were as they always were, with that slight red tint. I reach inch by uncle inch with my hand. Closer and closer. Until I almost touched her.

    "OWIE!" Came Zoe surprised yelp as I jabbed her side, "what was that for!"

    "Work it out," I muttered turning my back to her and crossings my arms. I mean it not like I had suddenly forgotten that she just wandered off with that creepy spider lady and left me on my own with a clue what I was doing. and it one hundred present didn''t have anything to do with odd flutters in my chest when she stood that close to me. Nope, no way.

    Anyway, it was her idea for me to even be here then she just left me with my guide.

    Lucky he had been a nice guy, one of the few compared to all the weirdos. Actually on the matter of weirdos.

    I looked around the little hall we, me and Zoe, were in. There wasn''t much around and luckily no eight-legged creeps or any blue people as it seemed my new guide had disappeared. It was just me and her.

    "Is it the dress?" heard behind me. I turn my head just enough to see Zoe''s confusion plain as day on her face "I knew you wouldn''t like it, Bane even said so."

    Ow. I felt it. Like my inside did a little twist. I looked down at where I felt the pain. Like a sinking feeling. "No, no I like it. I just... I... don''t know," I whispered turning back slowly to face her.

    "So it''s not the dress?" She asked her face unreadable. How is it she has such a poker face now of all times.

    I gave a little shake of my head.

    "Yay, so does that mean I can get you more. I saw one on the way here that would look so good on you. Oh-oh, I can get you a hat to go with it like one of the French ones what''s it called..." Zoe rabble suddenly gripping my arms and jumping slightly.

    In that moment of confusion, I had no idea about the horror I had released on myself.

 Chapter 42

    Chapter 42 бд My own little hell

    "Oh, this one too," I heard Zoe''s voice through the door as a pile of clothes flew over it. I let out a tiny sigh.

    I had given up hoping that this hell would end. I turned to the little mirror at the side of the dressing room that Zoe had dragged me in what felt like hours ago.

    I looked at the new skirt and shirt I was wearing. Pink. With little black dots. Picking the new set of clothes that Zoe has thrown in on the chair next to me I then processed to open the change room door.

    I opened it just a bit, just enuff to poke my head out. Which I did.

    I looked out at the little clothes shop. Racks of shirts, shorts and shoes were neatly layout. It was a small but nice little shop that had been hidden in one of the corners of this weird ass place of never-ending corridors. Luckily it seemed to have no one else around.

    In fact, the whole place felt empty. It was like everyone had just disappeared. I think I had seen maybe one person on the way here, which as luck would have it was only a few minutes walk away, and that person had looked a tad lost. Anyway to the matter at hand, trying to find a way out of this hell.

    I turn my head until I found her. Wading through a small stack of neatly folded shirts like a woman possessed. She wasn''t facing towards me as I called out.Help support creative writers by finding and reading their stories on the original site.

    "Um, Zoe," I called weakly

    "YES," Zoe quickly called back turning to me with a large smile that could blind even the sun itself.

    "Didn''t the auction thing start?" I asked trying to sound angry but somehow I don''t think it worked. Zoe''s face quickly turned to a pouting frown.

    "I guess we can go if you want," she said putting the items in her hand down on a table.

    "Well, um, I, um. I''m sorry," I replied. I mean I was here for Zoe and now I was here making her upset. She had gone out of her way to take me here and hadn''t even asked for me to pay for anything like the taxi here.

    "No, no we should go. I mean we''ve only missed the boring wine drinking thing but Void will probably get annoyed if I miss the main thing since he booked the tickets and all," she explained as she started walking closer to the dressing room door.

    "Ok, sorry I didn''t mean to make you late," I replied. Not only had I made her sad but now late as well. What if Void... "wait that guy is here?"

    "Well, he kind of has to be as he says "to show others that we give a dam," or something. I don''t really want to be here they never sell any of the cool stuff but I''m not paying so its fine," she explained as she starts to pick up all the dam clothes I had tried on.

    "But we do have like ten or so mins so..." Zoe said looking back at me with that mad smile and opening the door we show me in the stupid pink clothes "I think we have time for maybe one more look. This was the one I was telling you about early that I saw."

    Inside I felt a little bit of me sign but I only nodded my head taking the set of clothes from her. I just couldn''t say no not when she was so happy with dressing me up.

    "Also I don''t think pink is your colour," I heard through the door. At least we agreed on that much

 Chapter 43

    Chapter 43 бд Room mate''s

    You didn''t have to buy all that for me," I told her as we walk back.

    "It''s fine. I wanted to," Zoe said carrying at least five bags of clothes

    "But they were expensive," I retorted turning my head to look at her.

    "Meh, if I didn''t buy them then I wouldn''t get to see you in them," she said turn toward me with a smile.

    I felt my face flush as I turned my head away from hers. I don''t think I was fast enuff to stop her from seeing me that as I heard her giggles next to me.

    We walked for a few more minutes. I didn''t say much and Zoe just seemed to be happy to hum to herself.

    "I think this should be are one," Zoe said as we walked past one of the many plain doors. She started walking towards it, reaching for the handle.

    "You think?" I whispered behind her as she opened it.

    The door creaked open revealing the room beyond. A simple room sat before us, red carpet floors and white painted walls with dark wood rafters were silk drapes of all kind of royal colours hanging in the corners of the room. On the forward facing wall, there was a... well I guess a balcony overlooking a large hall like that you would see in theatres but I didn''t really have a good look at it from where I was standing. Three people sat inside on some simple metal folding chairs.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

    I couldn''t help the small smile spread to my lips as looked at the people sitting there.

    Few all the odds I saw a very similar pair of people. The white hair, the dull voice who was in an argument with that of a voice filled with rich emotions.

    "Brother you were meant to bring the food, do you wish to starve me. I might faint from the lack of sugar," came the dull tone of Edlin.

    "Oh but sister dearest too much sugar will make you so large how will you ever fit into a wedding dress. Even your maids think so," came the voice of her brother who was currently on his knees. I didn''t need to look to see what was coming next as I soon heard the sound of walling arms. And why would I want to look away when something much funnier was going on.

    He looked the same as the last time I had met him. Black suit, bulging mussels and the same snaking tattoo along his whole body. however, unlike last time his face was no longer tired but the look of competent was easy to read. His eyes seemed to stare at the two siblings and if looks could kill they would currently be on fire and need a whole ocean to put them out.

    Slowly his eyes moved over to us as he unclent his fist and tried, and in my mind failed, to smile. His whole face seemed to scream ''save me from this before I kill them''.

    "Good, Zoe your here. I had believed we were to meet again twenty minutes ago or did you get lost finding the toilet?" Came Voids voice through gritted teeth.

    "Oh, I was? Super sorry I had to do stuff," Zoe replied quickly hurrying to the seat next to him and sitting down leaving one chair for me at the end. Thankfully not next to any of the... overs.

    "Jade," was all he said to me. It was more of an observation than any kind of welcome. I just hurry to my seat hoping not to be seen by the two twins who were still fighting. It seemed to work as neither of them reacted to my presence.

 Chapter 44

    Chapter 44 бд Wet dream

    I didn''t mean to fall asleep but the auction seemed to drag on. At first, it hadn''t been that bad and at times funny when the two siblings would fight over how much to spend but at the end of the day, it was just dull. Nothing happened, I couldn''t afford half the items for sale even if I wanted to and I didn''t know half the words the guy on stage was talking about.

    We were seated quite far back above the rest of the quite huge hall that seemed to be filled with people. This was good because I didn''t have to be around them, the people, but also bad for me as I couldn''t see anything at all. I had no idea how the siblings seemed to know what was being sold or how they were even bidding as no one was around to hear them, mostly the brother, call out.

    Zoe had also bid on a few items at first but it always seemed to be in an exciting burst and after the fifth or so shout she stopped. Mostly because Void told her to stop wasting her money on a ''betting high'' but also I like to think because after she court me off guard the last time I nearly fell off my chair. And it was one hundred per cent her fault and not because I was starting to drifting off.

    <hr>

    Dripping. A lake. No. River''s, lots of them. All going, flowing, dripping. All from my pond. It was mine. So clear I could see the tiny fish.

    One golden. Old but peaceful. Its form like a large goldfish. It seemed to flow endlessly with the flows leading from my pond to the rivers but it never left me.

    One was white. It was... smaller or maybe just far away. Tiny dots of all types seem to fill its body but I never could tell what they were. Its scales seemed to change from deep greens to blood red. It body like that of a salmon as it swam far from me also out of reach. it seemed to look at me with a deep judgement with its little glowy eyes.This tale has been unlawfully lifted without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    But as I look down I could see much more fish. Each was tiny like grains of sand almost compare to the mountains of the gold and dotted fish. Tiny. Most were of deep green with golden sparks to them but a few were different. In fact.

    I looked closer at one little fish close toe but hidden. It was different. It swam oddly slight unbalanced on one side. I could see it was a baby black eel with green and purple eyes. It seemed to be trying to get closer to me but the other fish. The tiny fish were pushing it away.

    I reach forward. To part the clear waters. Hesitate they were. The other fish did not wish to let it cross but slowly they let the black eel in.

    Its form was... to be blunt ugly. A fat head with a tiny body made it look like an eel pug almost. But still, it was mine. My fish.

    "Swim fast, little one," I sang as it came to me.

    I smiled as it did do. Around and around.

    <hr>

    "Zoe you are not... no," came the cold voice from above me.

    "But I can''t wake her up, look at her," Zoe''s voice filled my ears. I felt her every word. Like it was hummed threw me.

    I opened my eyes to see the very nice plain sealing and the filling of something warm next to me. And soft.

    I turned my head and felt a button scape my noes. It kind of stung. Like badly. Wait.

    Suit. Zoe. Soft and warm.

    Was Zoe''s carrying me?

    I focused my eyes only to see nothingness. My head must be next to her chest but why was it so soft. Oh well. I mean she was carrying me so she must be fine with it. And I mean its only fair that I help her keep fit. I... also... kind of didn''t want her to let go.

    So I clung to her as she carried me and maybe it was the heat or the rocking but I found it hard to kept my eyes open for long

 Chapter 45

    Chapter 45 бд Midnight whispers

    I awoke. I must have been late as I could see from the window the dark clouded sky. I wiggled out of the clover that was draped over me. I didn''t panic. I knew where I was.

    The pile of boxes gave it away as Zoe room. That and the soft bed. I swear this bed is getting more better every time I sleep here. I might just get addicted.

    I looked over to the reason I had awoken. The door stood open just a bit but still a tiny bit of hallway light seeped in. Dam doors not doing their jobs.

    I crawled out of the covers and dragged myself over to the door. I reached to the handle to shut it while half yawning.

    "Zoe I don''t believe that in your state you should be doing this," came the deep voice I recognize. Void.

    Why was he here? Didn''t he have some kids to go scared or something?

    "Jade is fine. She wouldn''t hurt me, shes too cute," I heard through the door. I felt happy and confused at the same time. I mean I was happy that Zoe was defending me but why would I ever try to hurt Zoe. I owed her and she was I like to think at least a friend.

    "You know that''s not what I mean," he replied curlyReading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.

    "I don''t mean to be a meany boss man but why do you care?" I heard Zoe say her voice a bit colder than normal.

    "Honestly I don''t want to find new staff if something were to happen to you. It''s not like Wick or god forbid Felix could be sent out to do the same job as you," Void replied again. I couldn''t be sure but his voice seemed slightly wobble.

    "So it''s ok for me to work but not to look after a friend," came Zoe voice weirdly bitter and with a hiss to it. I know she was defending me but something about that tone made me shiver.

    "It''s how I handled it. It''s just business Zoe, that all," was what I heard before they both seemed to lapse into a cold silence.

    What was that about. It sounded kind of heavy and likely not something I was meant to hear.

    I tip-toed back to the bed leaving the door still open. I walk back. I turn my head to look back to make sure Zoe wasn''t coming in as I slipped into the covers. I turn my head back and closed my eyes. Only to open them again as soon as I did.

    I... I could have sworn I saw something. Like a shadow standing in the bathroom. A flash of deep green. No.

    I looked but there was nothing there. But what if there was. No brain stop it. It must have been a trick of the lights is all.

    I felt my body shake as I tried to ignore it. There was nothing there now and most likely never was. But I still pulled the cover up to cover my head. Just in case.

    I was still awake as I heard the front door open and close. It must have been twenty minutes or so later that I felt Zoe slide next to me. I felt her. The warmth and her hair tickled my ear.

    "I would never hurt you," I heard her whisper next to my ear. I had to use all my willpower not to go rigged.

    I felt her arm. Her skin. It hugged me much like the blankets. I was one hundred per-cent not getting any sleep now.

 Chapter 46

    Chapter 46 бд Sugar

    "You look worse than me," Bane groaned as I sat next to her trying to hold my spoon. I had spent the whole night unable to sleep thanks to Zoe half hugging me, half strangling me.

    "Urmm..." was all I whispered in response.

    "Hail to that," was all the warning I got before a slap to my back that knocked my spoon from my hand and also the breath from my lungs. It took me a while until I was able to drip my spoon back into my bowl of cereal.

    Weirdly I hadn''t been able to fund much if anything in the cupboards apart from a huge bag of coffee and what I was eating now. Sugar. Just pure sugar. No wonder Zoe was always so bouncy with this stuff in her diet. It was like constated energy. I could hardly call it cereal.

    Unfortunately, I hadn''t eaten last night and with the lack of anything else and my belly sounding like a foghorn I had been forced to eat this or starve. At least there was milk.

    "Crap, the milk''s off," Bane mattered behind me sniffing the half used milk bottle.

    I looked back down at my half-eaten bowl before pushing it away. I was already dreading today so I did not need to temp some evil god into also making me sick. Because today was the day I went to see my uncle.

    "Morning!" Came that of a booming voice and a loud crash as Zoe''s bedroom door opened and smacked the wall. Zoe was dressed in grey jeans and an origin shirt with a fire breathing kitten on it which would normally look odd most people but it seemed to fit her quite well.Stolen story; please report.

    "Too loud Z," Bane complained as she walks towards the door with a black rucksack and a takeaway coffee cup that a trial of the lazy stream was drifting off of "I''m head off so have a good day, I guess."

    "See ya," was all Zoe was able to say before the front door slammed shut and leaving the flat one member down.

    "Soooo... What''s he like?" Zoe asked as she took my half eaten bowl and started eating it. Ewe.

    "Well umm, he''s ok," I whisper still a bit in shock as Zoe munched on.

    "Anything else, like is he cool and stuff," Zoe asked between munchies.

    "He''s I guess different but he''s family. He can be a bit crazy at times but he always has a reason for it," I replied not too sure how to explain h.

    "Ok. Do you know if he knows about magic? You know so I don''t look weird or anything," Zoe questioned.

    I shook my head. I mean I don''t think he had magic or he would have told me by now. After all, he was not the best at keeping a secret. I remember how I had told him how one of the boys at my school had been mean to me.

    I had made him promise that he wouldn''t tell anyone but the next day the boy hadn''t been at school and the teacher had done a huge lesson on bullying. All the boy had done was put some gum in my hair.

    I shook my head again. No way he would know.

    "Ok. So where does he live then," Zoe asked now finished eating her sugar flakes in extra sugar.

    "He lives next to this little town outside of London. It''s not that far on a train like an hour and then I can ask if maybe he would pick us up," I whispered, "oh also I know you said about rent but I think I forgot what you said it was."

    "Oh yeah, that. I don''t think I did say did I," Zoe said tapping her chin and seeming to think for a second

 Chapter 47

    Chapter 47 бд Train trip

    I looked at Zoe.

    She looked at me.

    "Why?" I asked my voice quiet. Not that it was ever loud but you get the point.

    "Well it''s cheap because Felix owns it and I managed to guess this riddle and..." Zoe started until I waved my hand to stop her.

    "Not that, him" I whispered pointing to the brown suit wearing guy sitting next to her.

    "Um yes, Zoe why am I here?" Wick replied in an oddly high-pitched voice not looking away from me as I stared him down.

    We, me, Zoe and Wick were sitting on a train currently heading towards my uncle home. It had started off as a nice trip. In fact, I was super happy at the start.

    It had started when I had heard the price of rent. Just бъ400 a month which was good. Super good. I mean in total that was бъ1,200 between all of us and for the middle of London with a super nice setup. I think I''m saying super too much but anyway that was the good news. Then it had slowly gotten worse.

    Zoe had tricked me into her room while I was in my little state of joy. Then she started with the clothes. Again. I had spent the next half an hour feeling like a doll as Zoe tried on set after set on me. It was only until I almost fell asleep that she had found one she liked. I didn''t say anything about it since it wasn''t that bad.The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

    I mean I got to spend time with her and seeing her be happy with that smile of hers made me... warm. I think.

    Oh. And the outfit, if you wanted to know, was a black skirt and tight of course, it was still the end of winter I''m not crazy. Zoe had also picked out a moss green shirt that she said went well with my eyes.

    Anyway, we then headed off. It took about 20 minutes to get to the underground to a station I had nether heard of. It took a while but we finally got our tickets and started the trip. I had spent most of my time behind Zoe as I had felt the eye''s on me.

    Luckily we had made it onto a train that was mostly empty above ground and was able to grab seats and a little bit of privacy but I still felt a little off. Which was when he had walked in.

    Wick.

    I didn''t have anything against him. Much. I still owed him for the weird charm he used on me but it was for the best in the end so I guess it''s ok. For now.

    No, it wasn''t that I disliked him but I had kind of hoped that maybe it could have been just me and Zoe. Felt weird when I thought of it like that but I just didn''t like the idea of a tag along.

    "Oh, what, Wick?" Zoey replied acting as if she hadn''t even noticed him.

    I gave a solid, single nod.

    "Well he''s kind of a bit of bookworm so I needed a reason to get him out of the library before he becomes a book himself," she replied without a hint of wrongdoing.

    "Zoe I can not even begin to state how wrong that is. you said that this was field work that Void sent us," Wick complained as he got his phone out pulling up a text to show her. Wow, that''s a lot of different emoticon in one text.

    "I lied but if it makes it better you can stand in a field if you want," Zoe said with a poke to Wicks noes.

    Wick quickly grew a beet red before pulling out a book and hiding behind it. I, on the other hand, felt even worse.

    I mean I couldn''t stay angry at Zoe but now I felt just bad like my insides were twisted. It had worsed when Zoe had, for lack of a better word, booped Wick on the noes.

 Chapter 48

    Chapter 48 бд Thent-hill

    It wasn''t a long trip but it felt slow. Watching the graffiti brick walls slowly turn to trees and the odd few houses that were unlucky to be built next to the track.

    When we finally stopped I jump out of the train and onto the almost empty platform. It hadn''t been that busy on the train but it still felt the glance. I felt the shudder run through my body.

    As I left the train doorway with Zoe behind me and the other one fumbling with his bag before finally following I got a good look around.

    There wasn''t much to the platform. Two tracks running alongside each other and on the right of me was a small cafиж and tickets booth. The exit was a simple brick wall with one of those metal spinning things that you had to scan your tickets to get out of. The rest of the platform was mostly made ofof grey slabs of concrete flooring, one lonely knackered bench and all of it surrounded by a wire mesh fence.

    I look at Zoe as I started to walk towards the exit.

    "So um, this is Thent-hill itwhereI grew up or at least from since I can remember anyway,б▒I whispered giving a nod to the little welcome sign.

    "Cool, kind of rustic. Say I''m sorry if I annoy you,"Zoe said looking at me with a small smile as the rising sun fillyed decided to come out from behind a cloud and light up the sky behind her. It was pretty if it hadn''t half blinded me in doing so.

    "No, I''m sorry. I just don''t know how my uncles going to be. He''s kind of, oh I don''t know, protective of me,"I replied half lieing. I didn''t want her to think I was being petty. It''s not like she did anything wrong after all I hadn''t said not to bring any friends along.

    "Meh I''m sure it will be fine, everyone loves me, right Wick?"Zoe shouted over the Wick which resulted in him looking up from his phone with a look of confusion as he clearly hadn''t been paying attention."Also if your worried about something I''m here to listen if you need it or to do anything really."

    You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.

    I turned my head back and nodded as I felt my chest do a little flip.

    We walked mostly in silence as we got to the exit. Upon leaving I looked around the small town of Thent-hill. The station was on a slight hill which gave me a good view of my old home town. In front stood the main street with the odd shop here and there. A mix of local shops with Tudor looking building mixed with more modern brick and white paint buildings with large glass windows reflecting the sun''s rays.

    I could see a few people walking here and there, mostly mom''s with little kid''s. I watch as some chased each other in the streets as peronts chatted to each other while keeping an eye on them to make sure none went to close to the road. The road itself was busy but compared to some of London streets were almost ghostlyquiet.

    I looked beyond the shops to the rooftops of houses with little potted chiles reaching out and the odd aural pocking out here and their. I breathed deeply my heart beating as I remember the odd days I would walk down theses road when I was little.

    Icould almost smell the freshly turned earth. Thent-hill was mostly a farming based town and even I knew that at this time of year they would be planting the new crops for spring. Probably some kind of rape-seed or whatever that yellow flower they use for oil is called.

    As I stood there taking it in I was returned from my memory by a short gust of bitter icy wind. It seemed to cut through my clothes and deep to my bones. I gave a slight shiver but as fast as it had come it was gone again. It seemed like winter hadn''t quite past yet.

    I turned to Zoe and wick and gave them a smile before waving my hand.

    "Follow me, ok,"was all I said before leading them onwards. I just wish that I knew if I had made the right choice.

 Chapter 49

    Chapter 49 бд Empty Walls

    "It''s smaller then I remember," I committed

    "Looks run down," came Wick voice which earned him a glare from me.

    I look back at my old school. It looked kind of like a church but extension had been added over the years slowly turning it from a place of praise to one of learning. The old grey shell of the building was surrounded by a little wooden fencing hiding the garden and playground that stood empty.

    yet no noises could be heard from inside and even less movement too.

    "Do you think its closed or something," I asked feeling a little sad see somewhere I had spent so much time empty.

    "It might just be the holidays. They were the best part of school," Zoe said with a distant look in her eye.

    "Zoe I wish I could say I''m surprised but I''m not," Wick sighed shaking his head.

    I had been showing them around for a while now. There''s wasn''t much too Thent-hill but the town did have some history to it.

    "So this place use to be a church did it," Wick asked which had been one of the few things he seemed to be interested in. Most of my short tour he had been reading his phone or one of his books. I was surprised someone like him was able to carry so many books without falling over but he seemed to walk around just fine.Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    "I think so," I replied looking to the stone frame.

    "Do you know what kind?" He asked again

    "I don''t know it''s just always been a school since forever. No one here is very religious as far as I know," I said slightly out of breath.

    "You sure you don''t know?" Wick whined

    "Wick she doesn''t know," Zoe said for me with a roll of her eyes.

    "Why do you want to know?" I asked

    "Well, the energy of this place is weird. necromancy here, life energy there and this church should have some form of fate magic but it''s a dead zone," he explained starting slowly but slowly faster his tone getting more and more annoyed.

    I just looked at him, "Ok".

    "Good, see Zoe I''m not ''boring'' you just need to try listening more," he gave a nod and then went back to his book.

    Zoe slowly lean down to me away from Wick, "you didn''t understand any of that did you?"

    I shook my head making Zoe start giggling.

    "What, what''s so funny," Wick complained as we started to move again.

    "Just girl stuff Wick" Zoe lied between every odd laugh.

    Wick just shook his head not seeming, wisely, do not want to ask more.

    "So that''s mostly it," I said walking us to the only other place we hadn''t been yet.

    "This place is kind of small isn''t it," Zoe asked following next to me.

    "Yes, the town was hit baldy with plague and illness about forty or so years ago and its taken a while for it to recover. Most of the crops kept failing year after year and people seemed to get ill almost every week or so," I explained.

    "Weird, so where we heading," Zoe asked

    I stooped thinking about the past of the town as I pointed to the little library a few minutes from us.

    "Okay, is that we''re you uncle works then?" Zoe guessed.

    "No, but its got a public phone," I explained.

    "If you want a phone you could always use mine," Zoe said taking her mobile out.

    "Oh," was all I said as she handed it to me.

 Chapter 50

    Chapter 50 бд Lady

    I looked down at Zoe''s phone as it lay in my palm.

    "So... you going to call him?" Zoe asked as I continued to look at the phone.

    "Um well, I don''t really know," I whispered

    "You don''t know what?" Zoe asked looking confused

    "I''ve never used a mobile," I said shuffling my feet. I mean it''s not like I ever had to use one before.

    "Oh. Right. So um. Sorry I''ve never had this happen before," Zoe''s replied

    We just kind of stood there. Me trying to hand Zoe''s phone back and her slow unsure hand reaching for it.

    "Well then, just tell Zoe the number and she can phone him," Wick stated breaking the few seconds of silence.

    "Yep, yep I can do that," Zoe said taking her phone back from me " so what''s the number."

    I took a few seconds for me to tell her the number and for her to hand it back to be ringing.

    Vrr, vrr

    Vrr, vrr

    Click!

    "This is the Thorn abolishment, Terry speaking," came the quirt replied in very slight American assets.The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    "Terry its Jade, I just want to know if maybe you could give me a lift the house, I''m in town, please" I whisper into the phone.

    "Of course Lady Jade I will drive down myself, would the brick chimney pub be a suitable location for pickup," came Terry replied not missing a beat.

    "brick chimney pub, ok, if that''s ok I came to meet you there," I whispered back nodding and trying not to get flustered by Zoe now looking deeply at me.

    "Of course, and should I inform sir of your visitor is this to be a surprise," came Terry''s voice.

    Dam it. I knew I forgotten something.

    "No its ok, I mean yes if you can tell him that would be great," I stumbled

    "Very good, I will meet you in twenty minutes if that suits you," Terry said

    I nodded before remembering I was on a phone "yes thank you, Terry."

    "Goodbye Lady Jade," was the last I heard before the line went dead.

    I turn back to Zoe and Wick who both stood the looking at me.

    "What," I asked after a few seconds past.

    "Did he just call you ''Lady''," Zoe''s ask a grin on her face and an evil spark to her eye.

    I felt my cheeks warm and rub my hands together.

    "Well, I think it''s just his thing so..." I started before I heard the yelling.

    "Jade, Jade, hey," I heard behind me. I turned around to see different women running at me.

    Black braided hair ran to her shoulders and brown eyes looked towards me. She stood just above me in hight and was wearing a t-shirt with some city printed on it with a purple back-drop while a pair of jeans wrapped around her helping to show the semi-muscled legs.

    She quickly came closer with a smile "Jade, right?."

    I nodded, half tempted to jump behind Zoe.

    "Good for a second there I fault I might have gotta the wrong person, nice to see you," she said with a hand out for a handshake.

    I took her hand. I tried to speak but found my jaw had locked. I could feel my legs under me start to stake a bit.

    "I see your still as quiet as you use to be, it''s me Ruby from school," Ruby explained with a small handshake.

    "Oh," I whispered. I remember now. She had grown from when I had last seen a few years ago. Ruby had been one of my friends from my old school day. Ok, well, maybe my only friend.

    "Say I''m just off to work if your free do you want to come and bring your new friends. Don''t think I''ve seen you a lot before, new here?" Ruby started talking to me then looking to the others

 Chapter 51

    Chapter 51 бд Storytime

    "So how you been doing then?" Ruby ask as we start to back the way we came.

    I gave a nod "ok."

    "Yep, still quite I see, you at least haven''t changed much. So who are you new friends," Ruby asked with a smirk and a nod at Zoe who was standing next to me and Wick who had been pushed to the back of the group?

    "I''m Zoe nice to meet you," Zoe introduced herself with a hand wave.

    "Flitwick but everyone calls me Wick," Wick also said behind us.

    "Well nice to meet y'' all. Well as I said I''m Ruby I used to go to school with Jade here until she went to the city," Ruby explained

    "So you were friends then?" Zoe asked, "surely you''ve got some good story''s then."

    "Oh story''s there''s plenty of here, it''s a small town so everyone knows everyone but I can think of a few good ones from school. Hmm, well there was the one time the school was doing our annual sports day in the park next to the woods, was a warm day too but I''ll be dammed if I can remember the month. You remember it, Jade?" Ruby started.

    "A little," I whispered. I remember it somewhat but it must have been at least eight years ago now so I listened not wanting to remember it wrong, I didn''t want Ruby to think I had forgotten after all.Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.

    Ruby gave a smile before starting "Well let me reminded you. Anywho the whole school was there even the most teacher came with a few odd helpers. There was the usual event''s Running, skipping, which I did come first in, and that kind of thing but the main event was later in the day. It was the hiding contest, I know not the most imaginative name but that''s what it was, anyway I asked Jade if she wanted to team up for it as she wasn''t the happiest about taking part."

    "I was just... I didn''t want to get lost," I pipped in trying to give her my best scowl. She was making me sound lazy.

    "Ha, your still the cutest even when I''m not trying. Anyway, to cut the story short we all hid in this wood and me and Jade got a tiny bit lost," she looks at me as she said that with a knowing look. It''s not my fault the map was upside down.

    "Not that we knew at the time as we were just kids. So there we were in the middle of the woods when this tiny dear walks right up to us. It got all the way to us to the point you could feel its breath. It was so small and it even had a little golden spark to its eyes. Unfortunately, when we went to touch it legged it. We tried to follow it when it left but like the wind, it was gone. Anyway, why in the end one of the teachers found us and gave us a talking to but not as much as your uncle butler did when he came to pick you up."

    "Aww your so lucky I''ve never had that happen," Zoe cried her eyes a bit glazed trying to imagine it.

    I heard Wick muttering something along the lines of ''bit long winded'' but I decided not to bring it up. It''s not like he had much of a choice of coming here so I could give him a bit of leeway. But it was starting to ware fin.

    After a while, we started to slow as we drew near to were Ruby worked.

    "So you work here?" Zoe asked

    "Yep. Just till I earn some money to move else were, don''t get me wrong its nice here but a bit slow and I want to see more of the world than this little town before I get too old," Ruby explained with a nod towards the Brick chimney pub.

 Chapter 52

    Chapter 52 бд Lesson and learning

    I had never been inside the old pub before. It was one of the origin of old timey buildings and while the bare brick walls and timber frames may have shown the true age it was about the things that did. Modern tables with leather and custom chair, a long wooden clean bar with a built-in drain mat''s and the smell of food was fresh in the air wafting from a door behind the bar.

    We all entered with Ruby infrount. We filed in through the doorway with Ruby leading us to some of the open chairs next to the bar. Only a few of the other seats were taken by an odd group here and there, some just there for a drink and others eating what must have been lunch at this time on their table''s.

    "I will just be a minute," Ruby said as she walks behind the bar, talked to the man currently running things it would seem, before disappearing into the door the smell of food was coming from.

    "She seems nice," Zoe commented as we were all sitting.

    I gave a nod. It was nice to see her again. It had been a while since I had seen anyone from my home town or talk to anyone apart from my uncle which made me a bad person. There wasn''t any other way to put it.

    Ruby had been maybe my only friend growing up and when I left I hadn''t even tried staying in contact just let her almost disappear into the mist of the past like a nobody. She had stood up for me and always pick me for team projects.

    Growing up mostly mute and weak had put me back and without Ruby, I might have spent my whole time in school alone. Sure the other kids had been there but it''s not like I played with them and some had even tried to bully me for it.The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

    But Ruby hadn''t. She stood up for me then and even now she welcomed me back.

    She kind of reminded me of someone. I looked at Zoe with her smile. Her deep warm eyes like mini sun''s. Ruby was a bit like Zoe but I guess less... crazy. I needed to be better.

    I wasn''t going to lose touch with Zoe like I had with Ruby or else maybe she wouldn''t be so forgiving.

    "Jade, Jade, hello earth to Jade," came Zoe''s voice which pulled me out of my inner falts.

    "Sorry, I wasn''t thinking," I replied quickly feeling hot as I relive how long I''ve been staring at Zoe for.

    "We were just talking about if maybe your magic was related to nature in some form," Wick explained from my other side.

    "Related to nature?" I asked now looking at him. I mean can the magic be related to nature isn''t magic just magic.

    "Yes," Wick started as he pulled a set of wireframes glasses out and placed them on his nose "magic is many things due to its name coming from long ago when the understanding of the in-depth works of it was not so well understood. You see to put it simply magic can come from the different thing and as such respond differently to internal or external sources."

    I looked at him "so... like a cake. It can be made different ways but in the end, is the same thing."

    Zoe nodded with a smile while Wicks'' face seemed to almost tick a little.

    "I think you might be spending too much time with Zoe," he started rubbing his forehead " its more like... a pie. Magic is what you call a pie its the pasty that holds it together and uncut all pies may look the same however look closer and the size, shape, filling and pastry itself can be very different between two pies. Dam, it now I''m hungry. Anyway, your pie if you like maybe a nature pie if you like, in very basic terms." Wick finish at last with a tiny smile on his lips. I guess he was happy with his pie diagram.

    "So how can we tell?" I asked.

    "Easy, we just need to check your aura," Wick replied adjusting his glasses causing the light to catch on them in a sinister way.

 Chapter 53

    Chapter 53 бд Nova

    "I know that," I said with a smile proud to know at least one thing that was being talked about "Bane explained it to me."

    "Good at least you know something," Wick started until he noticed me glaring at him "Sorry, sorry I didn''t mean it like that I was just happy I didn''t have to tell you something so basic."

    "Wick maybe you should just get on with it," Zoe said with such a tone I could almost hear her eyes roll.

    "Right sorry, where was I, oh yes aura. So how much did Bane tell you?" Wick asked

    "Um well she said it was eating itself or something, oh and that it was like my soul," I answered trying to remember what it was she had told me.

    "Right, well I guess she not wrong but it''s not your soul or ''eating itself''. Here let me look," Wick explained as he flicked his glasses which caused it to almost I want to say flashed a deep pink.

    After a few seconds, he sighed " as I fault. First, it is not your soul but it is your mana mixed with that of the air around you however it can change with the mood your feelings or illness so some would say it''s a kind of soul or at least a look into it but personally I wouldn''t say so."

    He took a deep breath before starting again " and as for it eating itself that is just a perfectly normal even. When you first get mana pump around you it causes your weaker aura to collapse and then replaced later with a more dense and powerful aura, most of the time, like, oh I don''t know the forming of a supernova."This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

    "Is it''s normal," I asked a little bit of fear relaxing inside my stomach I didn''t realize I had.

    "Well with so many types of magical types and force''s of power it can differentiate now and then but its nothing to fear. However, I must say with the changing of your aura it would be stupid to check it. I''m good but as aura form, they become utter chaos to read which I''m not so good with," Wick concluded tapping his glasses again stopping the odd haze around them.

    "So what type of..." I started to ask before I almost fell out of my chair.

    ''BAM''

    "Tada, can I get ya something to drink," Ruby asked slamming her hands on the bar scaring the life out of me.

    I look at her as I tried to stop my heart from bursting out of my chest.

    She didn''t look much different than before however now a grey apron covered her front with a little brown logo on the right side just above the heart. The image itself was of a brick and the name of the bar under it in the same deep brown.

    "Oh so you work here also can I get a coke," Zoe asked

    "Yep its not the most exciting job but money is money. Also, I''m sure I told you that I worked here," Ruby said half muttering the last part as she started pulling out a glass bottle and a glass filled with ice of Zoe''s drink.

    "You did say that, indeed. Could I get a sparkling water?" Wick commented.

    "Sure, Jade you getting anything?" Ruby asked now looking at me.

    "Um, ok can I have a, umm, orange please?" I whisper unsure what to get and just going with the first thing on my mind.

    "No," Ruby said loudly before a smile split for face "of course you can. Ha, you should have seen your face, like I''m not going to serve you or something,"

    I half laughed as I tried not to make eye contact with anyone. I had forgotten how much of a meanie Ruby was.

 Chapter 54

    Chapter 54 бд The world turns

    "So Jade you came back to see you uncle then?" Ruby asked as she passed me my drink

    I gave a small nod before replying "how did you know?"

    "Ha, not to say this isn''t a great place and all but there''s not much to come back to." She gave a sigh

    "It''s not that bad is it, seems peaceful," Wick commented between sips.

    "I guess if you like dull and grey," Ruby replied her eyes losing some of there glint.

    We sat there for a few seconds the only sound was the people talking in the background their words hard to make out and the sound of Zoe as she tried to use a straw to finish the last of her drink. Wow, she drunk that fast...

    "Well, anyways," Rudy said ending the awkward silence "you''ve been in London right Jade, so come on tell me all the details."

    "Well um what do you want to know," I asked. I had spent most of my time shut in, I mean I hadn''t even gone shopping I had those delivered to my place so it''s not like I had ever seen anything at least...

    I mean could I tell her about magic. No that''s stupid, she would think I was crazy and what if there was like some kind of law saying not to tell others about it.

    "Um, playing sly are ya, alright then what about any guy''s you hooked up with. Any good looking ones or are with one now?" Ruby asked giving me an evil smile.

    "I, um, no," I stuttered back.

    "Oh really," Ruby replied still smilingThe genuine version of this novel can be found on another site. Support the author by reading it there.

    Fuck why didn''t I lie? Stupid brain I mean I could and should have come up with something better than ''no''. Right.

    "So you didn''t hook up with any guys at all, not even him," Ruby asked pointing at Wick who almost choked on his drink.

    "Jade can do way, way better than Wick," Zoe commented in what I guess is a compliment. I think.

    "What do you mean by that!" Wick said half copping, half shouting.

    Zoe gave a wave of her hand at Wick before exclaiming, "Wick with your fashion the only person you could get with is a ghost from the eighteen hundreds."

    This seemed to shut Wick up as he turned half purple and continue to drink his water, facing away from Zoe and therefore in turn me.

    "So anyway if you didn''t hook up with any guy then," Ruby seemed to pause for a second before leaning forward next to my ear giving me a wide glance of her chest and her faint scent of deodorant before humming quietly " so do you bat for the other side then."

    I felt my face freeze as I tried to work out what she had said before the reality hit me. Then she blew on my ear.

    "Baw ha ha ha, oh come on Jade I''m joking lighten up," Ruby laughed as she leaned back.

    Suddenly I realized what she was doing. She was teasing me.

    I tried my best get give a few laughs but while my heart was calming down the knot in my stomach still sat there making it felt pointless so I quickly stopped.

    "But for real Jade didn''t you get with anyone," Ruby asked after a few more chuckles.

    I gave a shake of my head doing my best not to look over at Zoe. I didn''t want to be talking about this but so far I didn''t see much of a way out of it.

    "Wow, so you still a pure maiden hmm," Ruby concluded with a wink causing me to nod.

    "That''s great," I suddenly heard behind me as Zoe squeezed my shoulder "now I know what I need to get you."

    "Wer, what," I whispered whipping my head other to look at Zoe''s smiling face.

    "Yep, I know loads of great guys you can meet up with, oh there''s Edd he..." Zoe gushed on and on about different guy her eyes seeming to glaze other a little.

    I half heard what she was saying not really paying attention to her words. I looked at her hand still resting on my shoulder. I felt it. Like an anchor hooking my eye''s.

    I could explain why I felt sad as Zoe took it back nor could I explain why it suddenly felt so cold even with the electric fire being so close by.

    "I need guy friends," I heard Wick muttering next to me.

 Chapter 55

    Chapter 55 бд Penny drop

    I didn''t talk much after that. A few nods and humming but between Zoe and Ruby, I rarely had to talk. They got on well and as I listen I had some time of think about stuff, well... mostly me. It hurt.

    The talk had hurt like a hundred wasp stings to the gut. I know Ruby hadn''t meant to hurt me, she was just playing around poking fun and to be fair I can''t blame her. She was stuck here in a little town where no one went to while I had left for London, the big city.

    London never slept yet it feels like that''s all I ever did. I never went out or did, well I didn''t do anything. A waste.

    Ruby. What would she have done? Party, work, learn, study, get new friends and explore all London had. I had wasted it all on nothing.

    Well, not a complete waste I guess. I looked at Zoe as she chatted away holding a new drink while Ruby chatted back once or twice having to stop to help other people.

    At least I had met Zoe. I wonder. I mean Zoe was nice, no, more than nice and once you got to know her she was so caring and always doing something.

    And she was... She was... kind of hot. I mean even I can tell that with my sense of fashion. From her hair to the muscled legs like that of a swimmer, toned yet not bulky. I hadn''t asked her if, well she must, right? How could a person like Zoe not have a boyfriend or maybe...The narrative has been illicitly obtained; should you discover it on Amazon, report the violation.

    How had Ruby put it <u>''</u>bat for the other side'' so maybe Zoe was with a girl? Would she and Bane be a thing? I tried to picture them together.

    I stopped and looked as Zoe finished her second drink. Nope. I just down see them mixing well on a candlelit dinner table.

    Was it even ok for girls to be with girls? Story and TV shows always seem to make it so it was a guy and girls that got together and lived happily ever after. What about the bedroom, how would that work would they...

    I shook my head. Stop it brain, No dirty ideas today miss.

    I picked my drink up and took a sip.

    I mean how would you know. I guess you just would right. Like they say in books you get a feeling, oh what was it, they always use that example, oh right butterflies in your chests. I wonder what that was like.

    I stopped to think back for a second. I guess the only real time I got a feeling like that was when Zoe and I were sitting in that cafe and I...

    Oh.

    Oh, am I gay?

    I looked at Ruby as she talked and tried to imagine Zoe and her hold hand while smiling.

    Like a burning tide, I felt it. jealous. About Zoe.

    Oh fuck.

    "I have to go," I whispered standing up.

    "Pardon?" Ruby asked looking slightly startled at the sudden interruption.

    "I have to... I have somewhere..." I stammered as I turned as I felt tears starting to form.

    I blindly stumble towards the door only hit something hard and cold. I feel layers of darkness take me.

 Chapter 56

    Chapter 56 бд Deep pockets

    "lady Jade, are you ready to leave," came Terry''s voice the hint of America easy to hear.

    I looked up holding on to the black long wool coat. Looking down at me with his wrinkled face each line displaying a different story of time. A silver-framed, black glass sunglasses hid his eyes while the rest of his face while uncovered gave away nothing apart from the sight twitch of his upturned lips.

    "Oh sorry," I sniffed try not to let him see my tears "Terry, you came."

    "Yes lady jade, you phoned. Sorry if you had to wait long," Terry replied placing a hand on my shoulder "the car is waiting for when you wish to leave."

    I gave a little nod while whipping my eyes with my sleeve.

    "Very well..." Terry starts to say leading me toward the door before he stopped.

    "Can I help you?" He asked turning back around.

    I looked other to see Zoe standing there. Hands on her hips looking at Terry an angry look in her eye "hey, where do you think you''re going with her?"

    "Home," Terry said look at Zoe who stood basically the same height as him.

    "Jade do you know this person?" Zoe asked turning to me.The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

    "Um yes, this is my uncle butler, Terry," I whispered not looking up at her. I didn''t want her to see my face. Or maybe I didn''t want to get trapped in hers.

    "My mistake I didn''t now I had to sign her out if so I will take Lady Jade to the car before signing any forms," Terry replied still keeping his hand on my shoulder.

    "You what now?" Zoe faces going from concern to confusion in the blink of an eye.

    "The forms to sigh out, you are her carer are you not," Terry replied again in the same tone.

    I looked up at Terry before it clicked, "Terry I''m not in school anymore, this isn''t a teacher this is Zoe my... flatmate. And that''s Wick he also not a teacher."

    "Actually I do teach on every other weekend," Wick called over still sitting in his seat.

    "Wick not now," Zoe hissed back at him. I just felt pity for who ever had him as a teacher.

    "Yes lady, do you wish to leave now," Terry asked looking down at me.

    "Ok," I whispered.

    He turned taking me with him toward the door.

    I turn back to look at Ruby with a wave I whispered a "bye."

    "See ya, Jade, come back soon. Oh and don''t worry about the bill I put it on your uncle''s tab," Ruby called with a wave back.

    Hopefully, my uncle won''t mind.

    I stepped out into the evening''s sun to see the black polished car waiting on the curb edge. Terry walks to the back door, opening it wide before turning to me "do you wish for them to join is lady Jade."

    I turned to see Zoe and Wick standing behind me, Wick fumbling with the content of his bag and Zoe still giving Terry an odd look.

    I took me a second. Did I want to introduce them to my uncle, would they judge me for it. And I... I can''t trust myself with Zoe, what if I try something and hurt her. But they came here with me, for me.

    "Oh, yes. I want them to come, please," I whispered

    "Very well lady jade," Terry said as I entered the car "please come, storms come quickly here."

    Zoe and Wick wiggled into the other back seats with me. The door shut with a click as Terry turned to walk to the driver''s side.

    "Well that was something," Zoe commented with a sly look

 Chapter 57

    Chapter 57 бд Sudden turn

    The journey took an hour an hour, in which most of it was in silence. The back of the car had three sheats in which all of them were taken. I sat on the rightmost seat looking out the window at the fields rolling by filled with yellow flowers of rapeseed and other green plant''s that I couldn''t tell what they were. I mean just because I had grown up here didn''t mean I knew anything about plants or farming.

    I was trying my best not to look at Zoe who was sitting next to me slightly leaning over me looking out the window. I felt the odd hair tingling the tip of my ears and the odd breath over my shoulder cooling the back of my neck. I was trying my best not to turn my head knowing how close we were but it was starting to get hard by the end of it. I almost felt like she was testing me like she wanted me to turn.

    But that''s just my brain, I already owe Zoe so much I can''t, I won''t, ruin are friendship over a childish crush. Dam, it was hard however.

    It''s not like I could talk to anyone really. I don''t know anyone that well apart from Zoe or my uncle but like hell, I''m talking to ever of them about it. I can''t tell Zoe about my crush on her without burning that bridge and my uncle...

    Well from the way he treated most of the boys who asked me on dates in the past I don''t see that going well, At all.

    Stupid life, so dam hard.

    Anyway, what was I thinking about again? Oh right, Terry sat driving at the front seeming quite content to hum to himself to the tune of the song on the radio. Some kind of 90''s pop song that quietly played in the background.

    Oh and Wick who sat next to Zoe on the left of the car. I had no clue what he was doing mostly because I couldn''t move my head to look without starring at Zoe but also from the lack of noise he was making. He was probably reading. If he wasn''t being rude he was reading so I guess that''s what he had been doing the whole trip.Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

    The car continued on for a new minute as I watched the farmland slowly turn more wild with the odd tree here and there. The road leads on, however, Terry turned onto an almost hidden side road going up a slight hill towards a large twisted metal gate surrounded by thick red brick walls that stood old yet steady with ivy bending around its base and moss patch''s splatted all along the outside. A small metal postbox sat on the brick wall the words ''Thent-hill estate'' written in white but fading paint.

    I felt and heard the engine die as Terry turn back to us "won''t be long," before he leaves the car. We all watched as he took a set of keys and started unlocking the gate.

    "Should we help him, it looks like may kill over at this rate?" Wick asked as we could see him ever so slowly pulling the gate open. Even inside the car, I could hear the hinges squeak.

    "Off you go then," Zoe replied leaning over and opening his door before pushing him out with a shove.

    Wick half in shock stumbled out the door his bag following him with a loud BANG. Zoe then quickly slammed the door, locking it before Wick managed to get back in. As he stood trying and find the door locked he seemed to give a deep sigh before grumpily dragging his feet to help Terry with the gate.

    "Well, that one grump dealt with," Zoe sighed now turning to look at me "now what up with you?"

    "What do you mean," I stumbled looking around for a way out but only finding the door behind me.

    "Jade I can see you''ve been crying and you almost legged it back at the bar," Zoe explained, "I''m not an idiot I know something''s wrong."

    "It''s nothing," I said now eyeing up the door handle and creeping my hand closer towards it.

    Zoe leaned closer putting her hand on the door handle before I could reach it with a small ''hmph'' and a small sly smile of victory at blocking my only exit. However, I didn''t care about that now, only on how close she was to me.

    "Jade don''t treat me like an idiot, I know something wrong," Zoe told me as I stared at her. I look deep at her eyes filled with questions and down to her lips that were ever so close.

 Chapter 58

    Chapter 58 бд Wide open

    "It rude you know. I''m not an idiot and I''m here for you," Zoe''s stared at me almost like she was looking deep into my soul trying to find my secret.

    But it wasn''t hers to know.

    "I just need..." I started but couldn''t finish because I didn''t know the answer. I didn''t know what I needed. And being this close to her only made my head spin like a whirlpool of a murky ocean, deep and muddled.

    "What do you need, let me help you," Zoe said almost like a hiss.

    It took me a few seconds but it felt like minutes that I didn''t have until the words stammered out, "time. I just need time."

    Zoe still stood leaning into my space for just a blink of my eyes and a beat of my heart before she gave a deep breath that made me feel bad. It was like she was breathing out of the presser I put her under, all my issues, all my fault.

    She closed her eyes pushing back into her seat before she muttered: "just make sure you tell me, ok?"

    I gave a nod before see that her eyes her still closed instead giving a little "ok," an arrangement.

    Not that I''m sure if I can ever truly tell her how I felt about her. It''s not like I knew myself at the moment.

    We sat there just the two of us. We didn''t speak for those few minutes just watching Wick and Terry slowly open the old gate that seemed to want to stay closed. It wasn''t an awkward quite just peaceful like the calm after a storm. I just hope the skies will stay clear.Stolen story; please report.

    It didn''t take them to much longer to open the gate to where we could or rather Terry could drive the car in. Wick rejoined us red-faced and flushed in the back after Zoe unlocked his door.

    The drive up was uneventful as the car travel across the short drive. The road itself was a mix of compacted dirt and old cracked bricks the odd weed poking in here and there. You could see the sight shift ahead as the road rose into the hill. Around us, small brushes grouped together underneath young Oaks and twisting Hawthorne that stood beside the dirt track. You couldn''t see much beyond the tree line but the odd group of branches would fall giving a view of beyond.

    To the right it showed the fields the local farms owned however much more distance feeling now than when we drove past them on the way up here and to the left more woodland yet to be tamed by my uncle and you could just see it.

    I felt the car turning following the road around to the woodland and up to the almost hidden house inside.

    It stood tall and broken. The old grey-green coloured mixed limestone brick looked worn yet clean and the red titled room brightened the building. The side of the house stood long and flat with many windows, letting light in but reflecting prying eyes out. The main door sat in the middle inside a curving archway with ivy wrapping its way around it. Two brick chimney stacks raised from the roof each the opitset side of the buildings. The trees stood around it shadowing it with there hight yet still, the rays of light found their way between the leaves letting the details of tiny cracks and chip''s in the brickwork become visible.

    I look out to the house as Terry drove us right up next to the doorway that stood open. A few stone steps lead up inside the archway were a small lantern hangs from the ceiling the bulb inside unlit. The doorway often closed behind the dark stained wooden and black nail door sat wide open with my uncle stood to stand inside it. His smile wide.

    "We have arrived Lady Jade," Terrys voice came as I felt the car stop

 Chapter 59

    Chapter 59 бд Hugs

    It took me a few seconds to fumble out the car after Terry open the door for me. It also gave me a few seconds before I heard the tapping of shoes on soft dirt.

    "Baby come here you," I heard before my chest was squeezed in a steel grip.

    I looked down to see my uncle crushing me. He stood just a bit shorter than me with light brown hair tied back into a short ponytail. He looks up towards me his eyes a deep amber brown the wrinkles around his eye''s only seemed to have deeper in my time away.

    "I''m so glad you back and you don''t have to worry about your university it''s fine I understand," he said still not letting me free.

    "Its good to see you too," I whispered learning forwards hugging him back.

    "Mr Ripley, lady jade and guest''s have arrived. If you do not mind sir I will park the car," Terry commented next to us with a slight head nod before heading back into the car and restarting the engine.

    "Guests?" My uncle asked now looking behind me to see Zoe and Wick who had gotten out the other side of the car.

    "Sorry I hope you don''t mind," I whispered unhooking myself from his grip before turning point to them in turn "this is Zoe''s my roommate and um friend. Oh and that''s Wick I know him threw Zoe."This novel''s true home is a different platform. Support the author by finding it there.

    "Hello, I''m Zoe, you have a super great niece and its really nice to meet you," Zoe started holding out her hands with a wide smile.

    "Yes," my uncle crept closer shaking her hand quickly before continuing "yes well, glad to see Jade making so many new friends, my names Ripley please feel free to call me so."

    "The names Flitwick, I must say you have a very large place here," Wick commented still looking at the building now only a few steps away.

    "Yes it''s been in the family for many years and I plan to keep it that way," my uncle said holding out his hand to Wick.

    Who foolishly took it without picking up on the look on my uncle''s face. I''d seen that look before whenever I''d asked him about dating. The edge of what I guess is hate or something much like it.

    It was almost like watching a deer walk into the line of a gun. The hands meet. And then they shook. Wick with his fin arms use to carrying books and I guess little else and my uncle with his tree trunk thick arm''s. My uncle''s hand crushed Wicks hand in a vice-like grip so much so that I fault I heard something ''pop''.

    Wicks'' face gave a slight grimace of pain before my uncle stood back and let go still giving Wick a death glare.

    I was actually kind of impressed. From the looks of it that must of hurt yet Wick didn''t make a single complaint and just gave a very fake smile while massaging his poor hand.

    "I don''t think your uncle likes Wick," Zoe commented leaning next to me so as too now let the others hear.

    "I don''t know why he''s been ok with everyone else I bring round like Ruby," I whispered back.

    "I think I might know why," Zoe replied

    "What is it?" I asked still confused

    Zoe gave a tiny evil smile before poking my nose and leaning back, "its no fun if I just tell you."

    "Ok," I whispered still feeling was she poked my nose. It was still warm even if it was only for a second.

 Chapter 60

    Chapter 60 бд Woozy

    "Oh, it''s so good your back. Your room''s already done and your birthday gifts are there. I know you didn''t want anything but I got you..." Ripley continued as I followed behind him.

    "I get that he''s happy to see you and all but is he always like this," Zoe whispered next to me as we walk down the hallway.

    The house itself was bare of much on the inside. The odd table with a potted plant, a painting here or there and even the old flooring was worn underfoot. We continue as my uncle lead us upstairs.

    "I haven''t seen him in a while so I guess he kind of, I mean, he may have missed me a bit," I whispered back "however he''s taking it better than I fault he would be."

    "Why wouldn''t he take it well? It''s not like you have done anything bad right?" Zoe continued.

    "Well he... he doesn''t like guest''s or other people much," I replied trying to make sure my uncle definitely didn''t hear that.

    "What do you..." Zoe started before,

    "Here you are, I tried to make sure nothing was changed while you were gone Jadey so you can talk to your friends here while I go finish some work in my studied, ok," uncle Ripley explained

    I gave a little nod before he walked off the slight hum of a tune could be heard as he left.

    "Jade is the rest of your family like that because if so I would thank you for not intruding me to them," Wick said behind me.

    I felt the silt smile slip for a second as I looked back at him, "I wouldn''t know."

    "Why haven''t you meet them before?" Wick commented either not seem the way I looked at him or not caring.

    "Why don''t you mind your own business," I hissed unable to help myself. I turned to him fully.If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    "Seems a bit odd, I mean your uncle seems odd so I suppose it..."

    "Wick right? I''m sorry but I don''t remember actually remember inviting you. In fact, I hardly know you so why don''t you shut up," I hissed my throat feeling raw as my voice grew a few octaves higher.

    We stood there for a bit. It took me a few seconds to release what I just said and a few more to release my fist were closed too tightly.

    Drip, drip, drip.

    I looked down to see the red beads role off my hand onto the floor. My blood from was my nails had cut into my hand was now ever so slowly dripping onto the floor.

    The smell seemed to come next. The tiniest hint of copper. I felt my breath go shallow as my vision seemed to weaver from left to right and to left to...

    "Oh... sorry," I said looking back up to see Zoe''s and wicks face just starting to lose their shocked completions "sorry I''m a bit dizzy."

    I wobbled as walk towards the door my legs suddenly woozy.

    "Oh come here you, gods Felix was right you do faint a lot," I heard Zoe''s voice say before feeling her carry me into my room.

    I could smell my rooms stale air as we walked in, however, I when I went to look up taking my eyes off the floor I felt my insides wiggle unhappily. Guess I''m not doing that then.

    "Here we are," Zoe told me as she leaned me down on my bed. I felt the cold puff under me as I sat down waiting for the room to stop spinning.

    It was odd like the whole world was moving around me yet I was partly still. I tried closing my eyes but the feeling still felt the same.

    "Try taking big breathe ok, in through the mouth and out through the nose. Or is it the other way I forget?" Zoe said sitting next to me.

    Was Zoe on my bed. No, now''s not the time for that stupid brain.

    I took her advice taking deep breaths and the feel of spinning seemed to creep away. After a minute the room stop snipping and I was able to look up.

    "You ok, want me to get your uncle so I can get you some water or something?" Zoe asked rubbing a hand on my back.

    "No, no he''s got work and I''m ok," I muttered looking up at her.

    "You sure you still look a bit green like you''re going to throw up and I really don''t want to have to buy new shoes," Zoe giggled at her own little joke. At least I hope it was a joke or she was just giggling for no reason, not that it would surprise me with Zoe.

    "I''m sure, please don''t tell him or he might not let me see you," I explained hoping she understands I''m not joking.

    "Ok, ok we understand. Hey, Wick go clean up the blood outside," Zoe said to me before turning to wick somewhere else in the room.

    "Dam it," was all I heard of his muttering before the door closed with a click behind him as he stepped out.

 Chapter 61

    Chapter 61 бд Empty

    We sat for a little while my bed making a comfy seat. For a while, we sat there while the room stopped swaying and my stomach stopped trying to come back up.

    "Didn''t know you didn''t like blood," Zoe said her voice shoving. She hadn''t moved from next to me this whole time, rubbing my back.

    "I haven''t seen blood in a while but I didn''t mind last time," I whispered.

    "Oh, really when was that?" Zoe asked I guess trying to take my mind off of the blood or maybe she just wanted to know because she was, well, she was Zoe.

    I tried to think back. I know I had seen blood before but I never nearly thrown up before but...

    I can''t remember. I just can''t remember seeing blood before.

    I looked down at my hands. I felt it like a tiny pain in the back of my head. From my hand to my wrist. I knew I had...

    "Jade you still there," Zoe asked giving me a pat.

    I gave a small nod now luckily not feeling quite so ill.

    "Anyway does your uncle always just leave you to do your own thing," Zoe asked after a while.

    "Yes, he''s busy with work," I replied

    "You don''t mind?" Zoe asked

    I looked up confused, " why would I mind?"If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it.

    Her face seemed to twist weirdly before she leaned in and hugged me fully.

    "You o... ok," I manned to sputter after she stopped and leaned back

    "Yep, all good," Zoe said giving a little nod. We sat for a while just quietly in which time I had the chance to check over my room.

    It was much like the rest of the house with a simple wooden door and a simple white wallpapers covered the brick walls. The light from the far window seemed to lazily lighten the room with the evenings'' sunlight.

    There wasn''t too much else around apart from my almost empty drawer, my desk that held the few items of mine I hadn''t taken with me and of course my bed.

    The covers on my bed we''re new, fresh and now a little wrinkled with both of us sitting on it. Pink pillows sat plumped on side closest the wall.

    But that was it. I hadn''t realized how dull and empty it had felt till now or maybe I just used to it being that way.

    "Zoe," I whispered turning back to her.

    "Yes?" She asked her voice tinged with interest.

    "When we get back I want to paint my room," I explained.

    "Sure, do you know what colour you want?" She asked her with a raised eyebrow.

    "Something that not dull, I''ve had enough of dull things," I whispered back.

    Zoe looked down at me and gave me a smile "we''re find something magical then so it will never be dull."

    Creek

    The door slowly swung inwards as two people came in. One was Wick looking unsure and the other was... I couldn''t remember her name but I reconsider her as one of the maids that work for my uncle. I don''t think it was my fault that I had forgotten her because she looked so plain.

    Like a cookie cut doll with no real defining features. Short cut brown hair with a slim form wrapped under a grey apron.

    "Lady I found this man stand next too of your room. He says that he is a ''friend'' of yours, do you wished him removed?" the maid placed toned voice asked.

    "Removed. Now, wait a..." Wick started looking a bit shocked

    "No it''s ok, he''s with me," I said half having to shout which hurt my throat a little causing me to give a tiny cough.

    "Very well. Dinner will be soon," the maid said before she turned to leave however stopping at the last moment to turn back "would you like refreshments or something to smooth your throat lady Jade?"

    I gave a nod before the maid turned back, closing the door behind her.

 Chapter 62

    Chapter 62 бд Ink

    "So this is the library, it''s the biggest room here I think apart from maybe the basement but there nothing down there," I said walking into the circular room that stood wall to wall with books. Some shelved while overs stood in plies much taller than could be considered safe.

    We had spent a while in my room until we got bored. Turns out I wasn''t a great host and I lack anything to entertain then so I decided to show them around the house.

    Most of the rooms stood empty however some rooms were nice like the library. Its was in the centre of the house with four oak doors leading out. The walls were hidden behind the rick stain wood bookcase perfectly formfitting to fit snuggly not leaving even the smallest space be wasted. Each shelf was filled with books, many of them old and unopened in a long time shown by the layers of dust and cobwebs on the higher shelves a few feet above us.

    The roof itself was were the main source of light from the stained glass skylight letting the last few beams of daylight from outside. The glass itself was a pale sky blue with a golden frame. The thick black lead lines cutting it into fourths reaching toward the centre only to be stopped and twisted around the centre connected to a black chain which snaked its way to a small unused chandelier.

    "What a mess, are theses books just left like this?" Wick muttered as if he could hardly believe it.

    "Well most of them are very old and in some language that I can''t read and my uncle never comes in here so there''s no point putting them away," I replied with a shrug. I mean it''s not like they were used so what was the point of sorting them?This story has been stolen from Royal Road. If you read it on Amazon, please report it

    "No point. Please never say that again to me," Wick whispered as he stumbled also as if he drunk.

    "Why books are books there hardly important," I muttered confusion clearly visible to all.

    "Oh boy were we go," Zoe''s commented behind my back.

    Wick approached one of the stacks of books causing a moth to flutter into the light as he spoke his normally squeaky voice now weirdly calm "Your right books are just books but its what''s inside that matters. Each word, each letter, part of a person, maybe just a drop but each one a moment that will never be forgotten by the ink that carves its message into the paper. So sure you could just let it rot but I will never let weakness take away what can never be made again. Not ever."

    He stood there breathing slowly. Slowly he started moving the books of the stack without saying anything else.

    The little moth dipped down between the beams of light from the window above coming to land Wick''s tweed jacket.

    "Ok then guess we will leave ya too it then Wick," Zoe seemed to groan as I felt her pull me back few the door we had just come from the back into the hallway.

    I let her pull me back.

    "What''s with him?" I asked Zoe

    "Oh he gets like that with book''s, I think it has something to do with an old crush he had," Zoe explained, "so anything else to do here?"

    "I mean we could go to the woods but we wouldn''t have much time with the sun setting," I said with my hand pointing towards windows slowing the outside which was quickly getting darker with each passing moment.

    "Don''t tell me you''re scared of the dark," Zoe asked with a giggle.

    "No," I quickly denied, "my uncle says I could get a cold or get lost."

    "Well you just have to stick close to me then," she said with a smile.

 Chapter 63

    Chapter 63 бд Moss

    The gardens themselves were wooded but tame. The grass stood at ankles hight with the odd follower poking out waving in the sooth wind that blows as nightfall begins. The odd birdsong was still present along with the sound of rustling wild brushes that stood untamed and twisted.

    The air was still warmed by the last streams of evening light as the sun sank so low that soon it would be no more. The air was fresh here unlike inside where it had been stuffy becoming old and stained but this breeze flowed filled with the scents of nature, untouched and free.

    The soft sound of footfall and the odd snapping branches could be heard as Zoe and I wandered along the overgrowth dusty dirt path. I held my head low to avoid the odd low branch, the odd papery leaf tingling my cheek when I failed to stop them in time.

    "I still don''t think this is a good idea," I called to Zoe up ahead.

    "It''s fine, I''m here with you and if there''s a path it must lead somewhere cool, right?" She called back as she swatted aside the spider-web that had been glinting in the light.

    "If you say so," I whispered more to myself than her.

    We carry on the path weaving at a small incline up to the hill. Each step seemingly harder as my breath grew shorter.

    I wasn''t sure how long it took for Zoe to finely stop but it must have been at least twenty minutes.

    I quickly stumbled to catch up with the small gap between us. As I got next to her I sat down on some mossy stone to catch my breathe and ease the weight off my legs.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

    "Jade you''re telling me you never came here before," Zoe said seemly shocked at something.

    "What do you mean?" I asked looking around.

    It was then that I noted where I was. The woods still stood surrounding us however a small patch almost perfectly round seemed to have stopped the encroaching of nature. The tiny clearing we stood in seemed to be nearing the top of the hill giving a perfect overview of the woods below and the sun just barely visible.

    Odd rocks poked out of the ground with moss coving them like an artist paints a canvas, filled with deep earthy greens and passive yellows. Perhaps the oddest addition was a wooden bench mostly eaten by woodworm with ivy weaving between the bars reclaiming it for itself.

    "I''ve never... No," I whispered back to her.

    "You really didn''t have much of a life before did you," She seemed to state more than ask as she sat down next to me her hair seemingly almost glowing in the light.

    "I guess not," I replied feeling my chest sink a little.

    "Guess I just have to change it then won''t I," she said with a nod before clocking me in the arm. I didn''t see it coming as I sent me off my rock onto the soft earth.

    I gave my arm a rub as I felt the forming of a bruise. All I asked was "why?"

    "Sorry that''s what Bane does to me so I fault that it would work with you," she squeaked before rushing over the rock to leaning almost on top of me "where does it hurt?"

    I lifted my arm that she hit and turned my face to look away. She was a bit to close to me and I didn''t want her to see my cheeks or hear my heart beating faster and faster with each passing second.

    I felt her hand run across my arm sending little shocks few me. Her hands felt so soft and warm.

    It seemed to be taking a while as I tried not to look and slowly I started to turn back. I couldn''t work out what was taking her so look to look at.

    As I turned I saw her eyes. Not looking at my arm but locked onto mine. Her deep red hair fell around her as she sat looking down at me.

    "Are..." I started to say before she leaned forward and I felt her lips on mine. I felt her heat enter me as my open mouth was filled with her tough.

    I went stiff. Was this right. This was my first kiss. Was this my fault. I looked at her, at Zoe, and at that moment I... didn''t care. I closed my eyes to the world and lean into her.

 Chapter 64

    Chapter 64 бд Wild things

    It only seemed to last a moment, the warmth. I felt her lips, her tongue and I wanted more. I wanted all of her.

    Then I felt her pull away leaving me panting. I opened my eyes he sees her face, red hair falling over me with the mouth slightly open her breath hard like mine.

    We sat like that for a while looking at each over. I wanted more so I lent forwards only for Zoe to shake her head and put her hand on my chest.

    "Not now," she said with a smile but her eyes seemed clouded. I just nodded.

    "So now what?" I whispered not sure what to do.

    "I''m not sure. I''m kind of hungry I guess," Zoe said rolling off me onto the now cold earth.

    I just gave a nod. I wasn''t listening and I don''t think Zoe would care. Zoe just kissed me.

    She kissed me and I didn''t stop her. I don''t even know what I''m meant to be feeling now but I know that I''m at least a little happy, ok so very happy, and a little unsure what to do and also something else. Am I feeling lonely?

    Maybe I was always lonely it just took being with someone to release it or something.

    I gave a shiver as a light wind ran threw the tree''s giving off the slightest whistle while chilling my body.This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.

    I slowly stood up my heart now starting to slow.

    "It''s getting cold maybe we should head back," Zoe explained now also standing.

    The walk back was oddly quite. We didn''t talk as Zoe lead me threw the path back to the silent house. The lack of light didn''t seem to bother her as she pulled me along her hand around mine.

    I didn''t mind quite. I still didn''t know what I was going to do and I was trying to make sure I didn''t forget that moment. The kiss. I wanted to carve it deep in my mind where I can''t lose it.

    Slowly the looming figure of the house stood tall above, the door stood shut only a few steps away when I felt the warmth leave my side. I look to see Zoe stand back.

    Why did she stop? Did I do something wrong? Didn''t she want to go in with me? She wouldn''t... would she.

    "You''re not going to... run away are you?" I asked hesitantly looking up past my messy hair that was hand pass my head.

    "Why would I do that?" She replied half-jokingly

    "Well in all the books I read that''s what tends to happen,"

    Her face seemed to twitch as she leans in and said while fixing my hair slowly as if treasuring the moment "of course not, it''s just a walk I promise and Jade," she seemed to pause for a moment moving away stiffly " you shouldn''t believe everything you read."

    I gave a tiny nod. I felt her hand leave mine.

    She turned and walk off into the wood soon disappearing into the wilderness.

    My heart sank a little as I took my hand back still feeling the shadow of her grip.

    "She wouldn''t leave me. She didn''t say goodbye," I whispered to myself the words feeling like an echo of something else.

    I gave a shaky sigh before walling towards the door. Walking up the steps I raised my hand to knock.

    "Your late little lady," came a voice as the door opened wide before I had a chance to knock. There stoodTerry his face held a small frown.

    "S-sorry," I whispered before stepping in.

 Chapter 65

    Chapter 64 бд Walkout

    The table was quiet as I ate the simple meal. It was some kind of beef with beans and a potato mash dotted with pepper. It wasn''t fancy but there was lots of it which I was grateful for because it half hid me.

    The room was like most of the others fairly plain the only difference was the large wood table and the empty unlit fireplace. No printing or artwork, no flower displaying their deep flavours the only thing that gave any light was a black steel chandelier that hung above ups giving off the odd flicker of light flexing the shadows in the corners of the room.

    "So what do you do for a living Mr wick," my uncle said not looking up from his plate.

    "Well I''m currently working at a library and I also help with Zoe''s agency," Wick managed to choke out his hand coving his mouth as he tried to finish his food fast, not that I blamed him.

    The mood I used to was normally happy. My uncle always wanted to tell me about this and that often some new trinket he had gotten or asked about what I been doing at school.

    Now the room felt closed in now helped with the flicking looks of worry my uncle gave me and the whithering gazes he passed to Wick.

    "Sounds fascinating. Didn''t you have an anther ''friend''" my uncle started before he looked at wick again "joining us, Jade?"

    I gave a nod "she''s out."

    My uncle seemed to think for a second before he nodded more to himself than me and continue to eat. The room quickly fell into the sounds of cutlery and little else.

    I sat there eating too much slower than Wick. I wanted to talk to Ripley even if he was acting odd. I missed him and I needed to know.

    All this time the questions I should have asked but never had. What happened to my family; my mum, dad and even my brother. I''d thought they had died but I had never been to a funeral or seen any graves.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.

    But it wasn''t just that my whole head felt like it was filly clicking piece together after a long time of being apart and I was... sacred. What was I going to find?

    However, maybe I''m just overthinking it. I just needed the right time.

    "I..." I started before Wick suddenly stood up.

    "Thank you for the food it was very nice. If you don''t mind I will head back to my room," Wick quickly said be for getting up and almost jogging out of the room.

    I didn''t have time to turn before the door shut with a click leaving just me and Ripley.

    "Well at least he ate it all," my Uncle said seemly a bit shocked at the speed that Wick left with.

    I gave a nod before clearing my throat and trying again "uncle I want to talk to you about something."

    My uncle turns to look up at me his body stiffen and his eye''s slightly bulging "It''s not about him is it?"

    "No," I whispered back trying not to roll my eye''s. I mean for real what had gotten into him.

    "Thank goodness, well ask away dear I will try my best for you," he replied his whole body relaxing back into his chair.

    "Ok, I wanted to ask about my pendants," I said.

    For a second my uncle''s face seemed to twist into that of shock. His eyes bulged twice the size, his face grew red like a tomato while his entire body seemed to suddenly grow rigid.

    The whole house seemed to grow quite like it was holding its breath. Even the flicking candles of the chandelier seemed to freeze and grow dim.

    My uncle seemed to realize that I was waiting for him and he took a deep breath "what um, what would you like to know dear?"

    I looked at him now with a weak smile on his lips and a drop of sweat roll down his head which he quickly brushed away with a napkin.

    "Well, what happens to..." I started to say before the door burst open.

    "Sir there''s been an issue down in one of the factories. They need you to make a call if you are willing sir," Terry hurry muttered holding the door open.

    "An issue? Sorry dear, I have to take this," Ripley quickly rambled before running out the door with Terry shutting it behind him.

    Leaving me alone now even more unsure. Why did my uncle act so shocked and was work that much more important than me?

    Surely he can tell can''t he how scared I am. I don''t know what I''m doing and I don''t even know myself.

    He uses to always be there when I was unsure but the one time I really, truly needed him suddenly work is more important. It wasn''t even just now it was for as well.

    He didn''t ask me anything about London not even trying to ask about Zoe when I got here just hid in his office.

    Something didn''t seem right at all.

    I sighed as I finished my food alone. Guess I will ask in the morning or talk to Zoe when she gets back.

    If she comes back.

    I shook my head and banished the thought away. I finished my meal before leaving the table and heading to my room.

 Chapter 66

    Chapter 56 бд Awaken

    "Aww," I jumped out of bed as my window crashed open letting in a flood of freezing rain over myself and my bed.

    I don''t know when this storm started but it must have been after I went to bed. I quickly pulled myself up and started to push my window shut before any more water got in.

    Between fighting the wind and my sudden awaking it was a downhill battle which I only managed to win due to the wind stopping for just a few seconds in which time I slammed it shut.

    However the damage had been done, everything from my night gown to my bed we''re soaked. Even with the window closed, I could feel the night air chilling me.

    Dam it, cant I even sleep without something going wrong.

    I reached out to turn my light on and after doing so got changed. Nothing fancy after all I still want to go to bed but I had to ask my uncle if there was a different bedroom already set up.

    So after finding a worn blue t-shirt, grey jogging bottom and throwing my soaked clothes into the corner of my room I headed into the hallway.

    I crept along the wooden floorboards wishing I had remembered socks as my foot feel silently on the very cold floor. I new was I would find my uncle as he was a terrible night owl, working onto late at night then sleeping too often late in the afternoon.If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.

    The hallways were dark only being lit by the odd flash of lightning from the storm outside. The normal sounds of the house drowned out from the tapping of rain almost like it got inside. Each second the rain seemed to worsen gaining and ever-increasing pace making seem almost musical in someway like the ending of a grand performance.

    I stopped and looked out at the window however not seeing much from the lack of light.

    "I hope Zoe made it back before it started raining," I whispered looking out.

    I stood just watching the odd crackle run across the sky lighting up the woods and surrounding country side. One second there would be nothing but darkness and my reflecting staring back as me before an almost blinding flash and a great boom showed the tops of trees whipping in the wind and sheets of silver rain pelting towards the earth. It truly was wonderful and wild.

    I took it all in for a while maybe ten minutes before I noticed the odd tint of the flashes. At first, I faulted that maybe I was just sleepy but the more I look the more I was sure the lightning held a deep earthy green to themselves.

    I shrugged. Maybe it was my magic sight. I mean it''s not completely crazy that lightning was magic in someway and I had just never seen it before. Not like I can do anything about it. besides it is different and I wanted to see more of the world so this was as good as any place to start.

    I turned back to the hallway and towards my uncle''s study.

    The study itself wasn''t the actual study. It had been one of the bed room''s before my uncle changed it adding a desk and cupboards. The real study had been connected to the library which my uncle never went to. Ever.

    It took me a few more minutes to remember in which hallway it was but I finally got to the right place which was made clear from the light of the open door and the somewhat loud voice of my uncle that echo down the hall.

 Info

    Sorry all for the super long wait. I''ve just started university and mixing that with my job has kind of worn me to the bone.

    Anyways I will be back to this story soon just have to fix my life first. See ya soon darlings.The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

    Derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, Derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, Derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, Derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, Derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, Derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, Derp, derp, derp, derp, derp, derp. Sorry for all the derps but thr chapter has to be at least 500 character long :p