“I just told Sam everything. He knew a lot, but I didn’t want him blindsided by anything. He knew I was Rafe’s daughter, but Sam didn’t know other parts of the story. I loved Amélie as a mother. Without her, I don’t think I would’ve survived. She reminded me every day why I didn’t want to let Rafe’s blood take over. Well, that and seeing how my brother was turning out.”
Reagan felt there was more going on. She and Winona had spoken to Jessica several times. Something had been eating away at Reagan, and she figured now was as good a time as any to ask about it. “Do you mind if I ask you a question?”
Jessica nodded.
“Why didn’t Rafe kill Amélie after Donovan was born?” And why didn’t he kill you? Reagan thought. Some questions were too hard to ask.
“He knew her blood was strong. He was so cruel to her, threatening to hurt me if she didn’t comply. He wanted more children. After she miscarried several times, he moved onto other women for offspring. He still occasionally came to her for a comforting touch or soothing. It never lasted for long, and he drained her to near death several times.”
Rafe’s evil knew no bounds, and Reagan added his treatment of Jessica and Amélie to the long list of reasons to obliterate him from the planet.
“When Donovan was little, she tried using her gifts to pull the evil from him. Not only did it drain her, it seemed to strengthen him. It was almost as if he built up a tolerance to good, and his evil fed on it. Rafe and Donovan both threatened to kill me various times. One night, I think I was ten or eleven, Donovan came after Amélie and me. He threw her against a wall, and I ran over to her. He then came at me, teeth bared. Terrified, I put my arm up, and a glowing light appeared. I had done it once before, but…”
Reagan stood, transfixed. It was as if someone had accidentally hit the pause button during a crucial scene in a movie.
“That was the first time I was able to cover both of us. I don’t know how to describe it other than a force field. Donovan beat against it, and I could feel myself weakening. I even tasted the blood on my lips as it dripped from my nose. Rafe came tearing into the room and pulled Donovan off of us. I passed out. When I came to, Rafe told me we would work on expanding my powers. I told him I was more powerful with Amélie. We worked on it and kept to ourselves as much as possible. Only a couple of times did he call on me to use it. Usually, it was for me to be with him and keep him safe.”
Reagan bet she and Jessica would be more powerful together, too. Or at least, she hoped.
“Nana will work with you. Dyani and Amélie died protecting you, so you have to believe they knew how important you are,” Winona said. “However, we can fight and train until we’re blue in the face, and it won’t matter if we don’t believe. Faith is as important as anything right now.”
“If only faith could wield a sword,” Reagan said, mumbling.
“Very insightful of you, dear. And it can in the right hands.” Nana seemed to have an uncanny sense of where to be.
“You seem to always be in the right place at the right time,” Reagan said.
“I’d like to think I simply know where I’m needed,” Nana said with a wink and a smile. “No matter where you are, whether you can see me or not, I’m always with you.”
Reagan wished she hadn’t lost so many years of knowing that beautiful woman and pulled her into a hug. They continued to the library.
“There you are,” Mom said as they entered the room. “Now, we’re just waiting on Sarah. She should be here any minute.”
“We can get started,” Nana said.
Madeleine, Jessica, Winona, Reagan, Mom, and Nana sat around the table. Reagan did some quick math. “Wait, there are seven of us with angel blood, right? That’s not counting Cheveyo. I thought we only needed six.”
“You never know when you might need another. We’re stronger as an all-female unit, although Cheveyo could step in if needed. Since Madeleine is newer to this, I think Jessica should step in to fill Cheveyo’s spot this time.”
Both Madeleine and Jessica nodded.
“Susie, are you up for it?” Nana asked.
Reagan kicked herself for not spending time with her mom, calming her fears and reminding her how amazing she was.
“Yes, Sarah and I have been working on me getting back in touch with my powers,” Mom said. “So, I guess I’m as ready as I can be for now.”
“She gets better with each passing hour,” Sarah said as she walked into the room.
Mom smiled.
A small sense of relief came over Reagan, knowing her aunt had boosted Mom’s confidence. Years ago, Mom walked away from this world, disowning her family and ignoring her abilities.
She’d spent so much of her life hiding from her family legacy, even turning to her sister and then Cheveyo to use magic to keep the powers at bay. Ironic really—she used magic to thwart magic. Just like an underused muscle, her power had weakened. Atrophy set in. More concerning, Reagan had a feeling her mom was fighting it even with everything they faced. Afraid still of what embracing her power might do.
“Before we go much further, I think we should consider what we already know, so we don’t waste Cecilia’s time. Here’s what we know, some of which Winona and I have only just begun to find in Cecilia’s diary: there are six angels guiding us, and we must find the angel sword for ultimate victory. Oh, and we must turn Lucent to our side.” Reagan stated what she knew, confusing herself in the process. “Of all of this, the sword seems the most crucial. Can’t we just ask her where it is?”
“That’s not how it works,” Nana said. “Angels are here to guide us, not hand over information and make it easy. We must defeat evil. God could strike it down at any moment, but that’s not his way.”
“It sure would be easier if it was,” Madeleine said.
“There’s this little thing called free will,” Nana said. “But let’s get back on point. Since Jessica’s new to this, I want to go over the rules. First, Sarah will draw a six-pointed star—the Star of David, or the Star of Creation, depending on your source—on the floor. We will each stand in a point except Madeleine. Sarah will come through and make a slight cut on our hands. We need our blood to mix. Then, we’ll join hands. It’s imperative that we stay connected. Don’t let go.
“Please, let Madeleine take my spot,” Susie said.
Reagan heard the shakiness in her mom’s voice, and although the protective part wanted to acquiesce to her wishes, the more practical side prevailed. “You can do this, Mom. I know you can. But I do think it’s a great idea for Madeleine to join us.” Turning to Nana, Reagan asked about the practicality of adding an extra person. “Does that disturb things to have more people than points on the star?”
“No, I think it will strengthen us for contacting Cecilia in particular. Let’s do it. We will all repeat: Cecilia vobis dicimus in auxilio oportuno.”
Sarah made markings on the floor. She then passed a cup of tea around. “Everyone should take a sip. It’s a simple strengthening potion to give us all a boost. Think of it as Wiccan Red Bull,” she said with a chuckle.
Reagan took a sip and then passed the cup to Winona, who then passed it to Mom. Reagan noticed how much her mother’s hand trembled as she raised the piece of china to her lips. Hoping to ease her obvious concern, Reagan pushed a thought to Winona.
“Could you ease her nerves? She looks like a wreck, and we need her strong.”
Winona’s voice came back clearly. “I was just thinking the same thing.”
Reagan watched as her sister walked over and took Mom’s hands. Her shoulders dropped.
“Okay, everyone, take your places,” Nana said.
Each woman took a spot and waited for Sarah to come around with the knife.
Once everyone’s hands were joined, Nana said, “Let’s begin.”
They all began to chant. “Cecilia vobis dicimus in auxilio oportuno.”
Even Madeleine joined the chorus.
At first, it was as if someone had turn
ed on a fan; a soft breeze pushed at Reagan’s face. Then, it became stronger. Remembering how her hair had flown all around last time, she’d worn it in a ponytail. For a few seconds, the airflow increased. Then, a calmness settled. Reagan opened her eyes and saw a growing light forming in the center of the star.
Cecilia came into view: a brilliant, white glow, accentuated by a flowing mane of fiery red hair.
“Thank you for answering our call,” Nana said.
“Much has happened. Heaven is brighter because one of its angels came back home. And, Madeleine, it is wonderful to see you have discovered your place in our midst. Now, the battle draws near. Remember, you are not alone.”
“We need your help. We must find the angel sword,” Nana said.
“Indeed, you must. But first you must work with someone you consider a foe. One who evil was thrust upon, but who does not embrace it. He seeks something you cannot give. But my angel will be there for you. Have faith.”
“And the sword?” Reagan asked. If she had an available hand, she would’ve either thrown it over her mouth or slapped herself. But the question came racing out. Actually, she wasn’t sure if she spoke the words aloud or in her mind.
“If all with angel blood read the diary together, more will be revealed. Know that your blood will draw you to it once you are near, whether in warmth or in pain.”
Reagan’s head became foggy and her knees felt weak, as if standing much longer was impossible.
“Remember. I am always with you, as are the others. In the next week, you will meet two of the angels who watch over you.”
“We thank you,” Nana said.
On her last word, Reagan felt a tug on her right hand that almost brought her down. She was brought to one knee as her mother hit the floor. Nana and Aunt Sarah rushed over as Reagan lowered herself to the ground and cradled her mom’s head.
“Mom, are you okay?” Reagan asked.
No answer.
“She’s been working so hard, but she’s still struggling to keep up. She’s repressed her power for so long,” Nana said.
Aunt Sarah placed two fingers on Mom’s wrist. “Her pulse is weak, but it’s there. I don’t know how many more of these she can handle.”
“Then we don’t do any more,” Reagan said. It wasn’t worth the risk. They had the diary and angels on their side. Maybe it was time to embrace faith. After all, it seemed to be a running theme.
Reagan looked around at all the concerned faces. Everyone was sitting on the floor in a tight semicircle around Reagan and her mom. Even Madeleine.
“So, Jessica and Madeleine, this was a first for you guys. What are you thinking?” Reagan asked. She wished someone would’ve asked the same after her first contact with the other side.
“I’m thinking we need to get to Lucent and trust Cecilia. Oh, and we need to sit with that diary,” Madeleine said.
Thinking back to Cecilia’s words, it was obvious she was talking about Lucent. Reagan figured Madeleine actually liked her Literature classes.
“Jessica?” Nana asked.
“I felt overwhelming relief,” she said, casting her eyes toward Madeleine. “I know my mothers are with her, and they’re looking over us. That brings me some peace.”
“Me, too,” Madeleine said.
Mom started to stir.
“Mom? Can you hear me?” Reagan asked, rubbing her mom’s cheek.
“Yes,” she said, opening her eyes. She began to sit up, and Reagan put out a hand to help. “I held on as long as I could.”
“You did great, dear,” Nana said.
“Did I miss anything?” Mom asked.
Reagan chuffed. “If you blink around here, you’ve missed something.”
Light laughter followed.
“This isn’t what I was expecting when I came to check on you ladies,” Papa said.
Each lady turned toward his voice. He walked over and extended a hand first to his daughter and then to Nana. Finally, Reagan and the others returned to their feet.
“The sword?” he asked.
“Cecilia directed us back to the diary, and she said we’d know when we were near,” Madeleine said.
“First thing tomorrow, we head out to meet Lucent. Until then, I suggest you ladies grab some snacks and hole up in a room with that book.”
Everyone followed Papa out of the room. As Reagan neared the door, a gentle touch on her arm caused her to twist her neck to see who needed her.
Aunt Sarah spoke as soon as they made eye contact. “Your mom is struggling more than she should be. Something is holding her back. I’m not quite sure what it is. Maybe you can talk to her, try to figure it out.”
Reagan nodded. Even at full power, defeating Rafe was a formidable task. Any weak link would be targeted.
A sword-themed girls’ get-together. Not a typical Wednesday night.
Reagan had showered and thrown on some sweatpants, her basic uniform since her life changed. Winona was bringing over the diary, and they were all going to hang out in Reagan’s room. Pretty much every lady in the cave was coming.
“I brought snacks,” Mom said, bouncing into the room with her arms full.
Memories from a former lifetime surfaced. Reagan’s mom always loved to host parties and encourage friends to come over. Knowing she was in her element made Reagan smile.
“I asked Sarah to bring some water bottles,” Mom said as she passed around goodies.
“Great. Winona’s bringing the diary.” Reagan stuffed some clothes and other items in drawers to straighten her room a bit. “I’m anxious to figure this all out. I feel stuck in a weird limbo. Plus, Rafe’s been too quiet. Winona and I will be eighteen soon.”
“Got the waters,” Aunt Sarah said as she entered the room.
“Thanks,” Reagan said.
“Be right there.”
Winona’s voice filled Reagan’s head just as Jessica, Madeleine, and Sasha walked in.
“I hope you don’t mind me joining in,” Sasha said.
“Of course not. We ladies have to stick together.” Reagan smiled. “I just hope we find answers. I’m getting a bit stir-crazy in this cave. It’s not like I’m rushing to face Rafe, but I also don’t like thinking about the days ticking away and the prophecy being fulfilled.”
“Me, either. It’s time for some action, but we can’t go off without information. Rafe will annihilate us,” Madeleine said. “And he won’t hesitate.”
“Just don’t forget that he does enjoy the game a bit too much. He’s like a cat with a mouse stuck in a corner. He can’t help but swat it around and enjoy the fear. I’ve seen him do it too many times to count. He’s sick.” Jessica widened her eyes and grimaced.
Reagan couldn’t imagine feeling that way about her father or anyone she loved. Rowan’s face filled her mind, and her heart ached. She hadn’t been able to spend much time with him.
“Sorry,” Winona announced as she entered the room.
Nana took on the leadership role. “Great, I think we’re all here, so let’s get started. It might be easier if we all sit on the floor in a circle. Winona, since you brought the diary, we’ll let you read it. Or at least summarize what you’ve read already.”
Everyone plopped on the floor and scooted around until they were all close enough to touch each other.
“Let’s begin with what we already know from our two interactions with Cecilia. First, there are six angels guiding us. Cecilia referred to them as wisdom, power, majesty, love, mercy, and justice.” Nana reminded us.
“And Madeleine figured out we must meet with Lucent first, where an angel will help us,” Jessica said.
“Yes. Cecilia also mentioned we should read the diary together and our blood would help us find the sword. Each of us in this room has angel blood except Sasha. And, Jessica, you also have, well—”
Jessica jumped in before Nana could find the right words. “Demon blood. Don’t be afraid to say it. I understand Rafe’s blood runs through me, although I’d do anything to
get rid of it. I can only hope that God intended for me to have it to use against evil. Cheveyo thinks it’ll help us find Lucent.”
Silence filled the room for a moment.
Reagan hoped, for their sakes, and especially Sam’s, that Jessica’s dark blood would only be an asset.
Winona brought everyone back to the task at hand. “I can summarize what Reagan and I have discovered so far from the diary, most of which everyone here already knows. Only those with angel blood can touch the angel sword. It means death to those who are evil.”
“What about me, then?” Jessica asked. “I have both.”
“I’m not sure yet what that means,” Nana said. “It stands to reason that you would be both able to touch it and repelled by it. That could also work to our advantage. Winona, please, continue.”
Winona held up the book and pointed to the last page with writing. “As you can see, there are only blank pages from here until the end.” She fanned through what seemed like a quarter of the small book until she reached the back cover. “Other than discussing the angel sword—with no real indication as to where to find it, except that wisdom will lead the way—most of the entries are about the prophecy. Reagan, do you want to touch on that?”
Reagan nodded. She’d spent many hours considering her destiny, the words from the prophecy forcing sleepless nights upon her. “All indications are that Winona and I are integral to Rafe’s downfall. If we fail, Hell will take over. Or, ‘But if evil conquers, life endless too shall be, Hell’s gates will burst open, and Satan’s army will spill out.’” Reagan didn’t need to look at the diary to quote the section. It was imprinted on her brain. “We can’t let that happen. Winona and I will be eighteen—the age determined in the prophecy—in April. Time is running out.
“We could spend hours trying to dissect the prophecy, but I’m convinced it will become clear in time. We understand enough to move forward. Would you agree?” Reagan asked, motioning to Nana.
She nodded.
“Do you mind if I see the diary?” Jessica asked.
Winona passed the book to the lady next to her and it traveled its way through the circle until it landed in Jessica’s hands. She seemed mesmerized, running her fingertips over the leather cover and then over several pages. When she reached the last page, she tilted her head and blinked several times.
Tala Prophecy: The Complete Series Page 37
