Demon World

by Balvir Bhullar

  ‘Hang on a minute,’ said Rowanne, interrupting the moment. ‘What about Alexander, has his immortality returned?’ she asked hopefully.

  ‘Rowanne,’ said Alexander.

  ‘Why are you all looking at me like that?’ She saw mild amusement in Lady Enid’s eyes. Lillian was giving her a disdainful look, as if she had not grasped the obvious. Though, the worse by far was Alexander, who was smiling roguishly at her with one of his famous idiotic knowing looks.

  Alexander gave her a dismayed look, before replying, ‘Yes, Rowanne, I’m an immortal again, but...’

  ‘That’s great! Thank God, for that,’ she said, sighing with relief. Finally the knot within her loosened; she had been carrying the guilt of destroying his life, for so long. She wondered how she would ever be able to repay his kindness, but more than that...

  ‘I haven’t finished,’ said Alexander exasperated with her, after hearing her thoughts. Holding her gently by the shoulders, he looked at her compassionately, ‘Rowanne, you are also one of us now...’ he said ruefully.

  ‘I know. I’m a half demon and an angel,’ she said resignedly.

  Lillian gave her a disparaging look; what was she going to do with her great granddaughter. ‘He’s trying to tell you that you are also an immortal now!’ said Lillian.

  Rowanne laughed nervously. ‘Uh-huh. Shouldn’t I feel differently now? Come on, it’s not true... How is it even possible?’ She fully expected them to break out in laughter at any second, telling her that it was all a joke, but nobody did.

  It was Elisedd who answered, as he walked over to her. ‘Let me introduce myself, I am Elisedd Knight, your great grandfather.’

  Rowanne looked up at him in surprise, and turned to look at Lillian behind him. ‘Lillian, what’s going on here?’ she demanded angrily, feeling out of her depth, as if she were losing control of her emotions.

  Lillian came to her side. ‘It’s true,’ she replied. Looking at her mother, she continued, ‘Seventy years ago, Elisedd and I had a child... We knew we could not keep her, so I travelled to Earth and left her in the care of Elisedd’s family. I left strict instructions with them that the truth be hidden, as much for her safety as for theirs.’

  ‘Wait, you said Knight,’ she looked at Elisedd, ‘are you by any chance referring to my grandmother Angelique?’ asked Rowanne.

  ‘Elisedd didn’t know where I hid our baby. I didn’t tell him, to keep her safe. Trust me, when I say that the hardest thing for any parent is saying goodbye to their child, knowing they’ll never see them again in their lifetime...’ said Lillian, as tears welled up in her eyes once more.

  Rowanne held Lillian’s hand comfortingly, ‘You know, we have to tell my grandmother the truth. She thinks of you both,’ she said, turning to look at Elisedd.

  ‘You can rest assured that we will finally have a long overdue family reunion,’ replied Elisedd, as his eyes glistened with tears.

  ‘I think that perhaps it would be better if I prepare her for the news, and I’m not sure how she will take it...’ said Rowanne, as she contemplated the best approach. ‘I can’t believe that you are my great grandfather,’ said Rowanne to Elisedd. She could see the resemblance in the striking green eyes, and in the contours of his face. She’d ask him to share his story with her one day, so that she could finally learn more about the time he had spent in Demon World.

  ‘I look forward to getting to know you as well,’ said Elisedd kindly, still unable to take in the fact that he had descendents. He had much to learn of this new world; a lot had changed outside of the death chamber he’d inhabited. After all, time didn’t stop for anyone.

  ‘Great Grandfather Elisedd, may I introduce you to my cousin, Amanda Knight or Eghan as she is known,’ said Rowanne, as she gestured for Amanda to come forward.

  Amanda strode forward confidently, ‘Hello, Great-Grand-Uncle, it’s nice to meet the man behind the picture!’ she smiled warmly at him, shaking his hand.

  ‘Don’t tell me I’ve been relegated to a spot on the infamous hall of ancestors,’ he said amused. He wondered how they’d receive him in the flesh.

  ‘I can’t wait for you to meet them, it’s going to be priceless,’ she said. Leaning towards them, she whispered so that only Elisedd and Lillian would hear, ‘He kept a picture of you, hidden all these years. Make of that what you will...’ and gestured discreetly at Driskell.

  They both looked at her sceptically; they would need time to think it over. They could not quite bring themselves to trust Driskell yet, understandably. They would need to go through their memories to sort out what was real from the illusions that Evelyn had planted in their minds.

  Driskell looked suspiciously at Amanda’s back, and wondered, What on Demon World could she be up to now... Did he trust her…? How much did he really know about her?

  So, how does it feel to be an immortal? asked Alexander in Rowanne’s mind.

  I’m trying not to think about it. Give me a century or two! replied Rowanne. She had not brushed the issue aside, it was just that she was feeling overwhelmed with everything she was learning.

  No wonder she had felt such a strong connection with Lillian; turns out, the annoying spirit was her great grandmother! It must have been the work of the pendant that had belonged to Lillian. A family heirloom passed down to each daughter when she turned eighteen. Lillian had left it in the care of Grandmother Angelique, who had then passed it down to Rowanne on her birthday.

  It crossed Rowanne’s mind that the pendant must have housed Lillian’s soul all this time. When she had died the pendant had released Lillian’s soul into her body, after she had been converted into a demon. No wonder the pendant chose me as the most suitable guardian to entrust Lillian’s soul to. The amethyst pendant around her neck was as mysterious as it was daunting. She wondered again about its origin and age... I should give it back to Lillian, she thought determinedly.

  No, Rowanne, don’t you see, it’s yours. You think your grandmother gave it to you because it was tradition, whereas in actual fact, she must have felt the crystal calling to her for a new owner. Don’t you see, it chose you, said Lillian emphatically.

  Chose me? thought Rowanne. She had always suspected that the crystal pendant had a mind of its own, but it was unnerving to have her suspicions confirmed. I wonder how long it will decide to be in my company...

  When you have a child, and if it’s a girl, then... laughed Lillian, as she felt Rowanne’s discomfort.

  Lillian, I know it’s always passed down the female line, but sometimes even traditions may need to be changed, said Rowanne politely, as she wondered why a male could not also be worthy of it. Perhaps, it would choose a boy next time, she would leave it up to the crystal...

  ‘Rowanne, are you alright? You seem to be burning up,’ said Alexander with concern.

  Rowanne felt deeply mortified, Why did he have to be the one to ask?! She looked sharply at Lillian, who had a sudden bout of uncontrollable coughing. Rowanne glared at her, certain she was trying to suppress her mirth.

  Alexander looked between the two women, and wisely sat back; he had no intention to get involved in their business.

  ‘And another thing,’ said Rowanne, ‘how can I possibly be the next heir?’ Everyone turned in her direction, looking solemn.

  ‘I’m no longer, automatically the next heir anymore. Lillian, you will take the crown. Then naturally in the future, Rowanne, it will be you who ascends to our throne,’ answered Alexander.

  ‘How do you feel about that?’ Rowanne asked Alexander.

  ‘I’m not sure,’ he answered honestly. ‘I have been trained from birth for this day, as have all the children who are potential heirs in the First Families. However, I can confidently say that with proper training, you will make a good leader. It’s time we had a regent who can walk between both worlds, and you will bring your knowledge and experience of Earth, whilst being immersed in Demon World’s various laws and customs,’ he finished, smiling at Rowanne.

  ‘I
’m not sure if I’m ready to be a leader; to give up everything I’ve known so easily, to leave my home, and live here permanently...’ Rowanne admitted, worried at the daunting challenge. Right at this moment, I’m not ready. She’d need time — a lot of it — to come to terms with her new life...

  Lillian hugged her, ‘Don’t worry, Rowanne, take as long as you need to. I’m sorry I concealed so much from you. But don’t forget, you are not alone in this, just look around you, this room is filled with people who want to help you,’ though she looked dubiously at Driskell.

  ‘Maybe even Mr Driskell. After all, he did help Amanda and me. I think we misjudged him to a degree,’ said Rowanne.

  ‘Thank you, for your mild consideration,’ said Driskell, less than pleased to be included in the group before him.

  ‘She’s right, you’re lucky we are even thinking of you at all. You helped us, but you also put us through hell...’ said Amanda brusquely, with a piercing look.

  Driskell held up his hands to ward off her hostility, thereby further antagonising her. It could not be helped, really; it amused him too much. He noticed Alexander’s measured look, as he approached him.

  ‘You never intended to hand Rowanne in, did you?’ Alexander made it more of a statement than a question.

  Driskell spread his hands enigmatically while giving Alexander an eloquent look, his mouth curving up into a sly smile.

  Alexander wanted to wipe the smirk of his pretentious face; he was sure the fool had lived up to his reputation, but what a clever ruse.

  Driskell leaned towards him and whispered, ‘I find it’s best to give people what they want... You cannot prove either way that I have not condemned a single soul, now can you?’ he asked Alexander dangerously.

  Alexander wanted desperately to believe in his old friend, but he was not completely naive either - he would keep his friend close.

  Driskell sat back, just as Amanda joined him, choosing to sit next to him this time. He raised an eyebrow at her, as if to ask, Are you sure, this is where you belong?

  Amanda looked at him perceptively with a wicked smile, ‘I’m choosing to put up with you, strictly out of necessity of course, and only for the time being.’

  ‘Am I right in presuming this is for Rowanne’s benefit?’ asked Driskell wryly.

  ‘Naturally,’ she replied pleasantly.

  ‘What happens now?’ asked Rowanne. She felt tired, but knew that her life no longer solely belonged to her.

  ‘Security measures are going to have to be put in place, you cannot simply return to your home, Rowanne. I’m sorry to say you will have to stay in a safe house for now. You must cooperate, along with the rest of us with the Noble Court, while they assess each of our eligibility to the throne, as well as the right to stay in Demon World,’ said Lillian.

  ‘It’s going to be a long process, right?’ asked Rowanne wearily.

  ‘I’m afraid so,’ replied Alexander. ‘And if you wouldn’t mind, then I’d be pleased if you chose to stay with me while we try to straighten things out.’

  Rowanne’s cheeks coloured faintly - all the more noticeable with her porcelain complexion - and to compound the situation, everyone’s eyes were now trained on her as they eagerly awaited her reply. She gave it some consideration, before asking, ‘What about my grandparents? Perhaps, I could stay with them for a while. And I think it would be best if you, Lillian, along with Great Grandfather and Lady Enid, eventually join me there, after I’ve laid the groundwork of course,’ finished Rowanne.

  She smiled timidly at Alexander, as she said in his mind, I am sorry, but I really think it’s best for now that I help Grandmother Angelique. She needs me more at this time. Not to mention the fact that I have no idea what I will be able to tell my parents — they’re human. Well, the last time I checked anyway.

  Alexander’s dark sapphire eyes looked deeply into Rowanne’s, as he replied with a hint of amusement, I am a patient man... eventually you’ll need someone to train you, and I could be that man, he said benevolently.

  I’m not too sure about that, I think Kieran might be a more appropriate choice... said Rowanne subtly, as his gaze bore into her. She could practically hear the wheels turning in his mind; he was up to something, she was sure of it. He would make it known in his own good time.

  You know I will, replied Alexander innocently.

  Rowanne ignored him and his childish threats.

  However, he was unrepentant and diligent, as he continued, It’s a promise, and I do not make them lightly. I see them through... said Alexander, leaving it up to her to interpret as she wished.

  Rowanne tore her gaze away, ‘One other thing, what am I going to do with these?’ she asked, pointing to her wings. She could not fathom a life with them; they were as cumbersome as they were beautiful.

  ‘I think Alexander can help you with that dilemma,’ replied Lillian brightly, much to Rowanne’s displeasure.

  ‘I’m going,’ said Driskell, and when no one stopped him, he got up and walked out of the room.

  ‘Wait for me, you can drop me off,’ called Amanda. ‘After all, not all of us are immortal, and some of us can’t portal, either,’ she said wryly to the room. ‘Rowanne, I’ll talk to the family, as well as set a date for all of you to come over once this settles down,’ she hugged her cousin, and took her leave of everyone.

  ‘I’ll talk to you soon, my dear,’ said Elisedd, patting her on the shoulder.

  Amanda walked out, closing the door behind her. Driskell was leaning against the wall waiting for her.

  ‘Let’s go,’ he said.

  He looked brooding; this she could deal with. At least he was not in one of his funny moods.

  ‘Come here,’ he said innocently, but his eyes lit up as she stepped into his arms. ‘Hold on,’ he was highly amused when she put her arms around his waist.

  ‘Just don’t say anything. I’m dead tired after the day I’ve had.’ Amanda closed her eyes; she hated this method of travelling, it made her feel nauseous. Curiously she heard his heart beating fast as she leaned against him.

  Driskell wisely kept quiet and opened a portal, and a moment later it closed after them.

  The door opened and Rowanne stepped through with Alexander, who closed it behind them.

  ‘I know there is still a lot to discuss, but we do have time on our hands now, it can wait for another day,’ said Rowanne, yawning, and covering her mouth hastily.

  ‘I want to take you somewhere,’ he said mysteriously.

  ‘Alexander, you promised to help me with these, and then just point me to any empty room so I can pass out!’ said Rowanne.

  ‘This won’t take long, demon’s honour,’ he said solemnly.

  Rowanne groaned in frustration as he grabbed her hand and led her down the corridor, eventually stopping by a door. He opened it to reveal a staircase that led up, and she trudged up, barely able to walk. He opened another door at the top, and suddenly she felt the cold night air drift in, instantly waking her up.

  ‘Where in the world are you taking me now?’ asked Rowanne, as her teeth chattered.

  ‘Live a little,’ he replied. ‘Sorry, probably the wrong thing to say in your case,’ he added unrepentantly.

  Rowanne responded by gathering a handful of snow off the ground, and expertly wielding it so that it connected with his thick head. She smiled broadly, feeling immeasurably satisfied with the sound it made on impact.

  Alexander stalked over to her with a less than pleased expression and a dangerous look in his eyes. He held onto her arms, and let his power flow over the both of them. He watched Rowanne’s eyes grow luminous as her own power responded, mirroring him; though unconsciously. He focused and lifted them both off the ground as his wings spread out beautifully behind him.

  Rowanne stifled a scream as she rose, leaving solid ground far below, and felt the power surge within her. She dug into Alexander’s arms as panic took hold.

  ‘Just breathe, Rowanne, that way you can enjoy this. Think of y
our wings as a precious gift,’ his eyes captured her gaze.

  She tried to still her chaotic mind, and as she did so, gradually she began to notice the finer details around her that she had missed, like the fact that it was snowing. She took the time to actually appreciate the intricacy and beauty of the snowflakes that gently fell on them. How could something so beautiful have so short a span of existence... she wondered. She looked thoughtfully at Alexander; it was thanks to him that she could view the world in ways she could never have imagined. Her vision was sharper and a hundred times better than what it had been when she had been a human.

  ‘Should I be worried?’ he asked, feigning terror.

  Rowanne’s hair and eyelashes were covered in snow. ‘Not yet, but you should be...’ she replied.

  Alexander spun her around, and then hovered high above the castle. ‘This is now all yours, Rowanne,’ he said, encompassing the surrounding area.

  Rowanne could see as far afield to the forest where they had portalled into. It looked beautiful, the trees covered in a sea of white. She looked down at the castle, and only now realised how large an area it covered. It began to dawn on her the enormity of what she would one day be taking on. Expected to take on; there was no choice now, after all.

  Suddenly she felt overwhelmed by it all, and her natural instinct was to reach for Alexander as she rested her head on his chest. He gently descended with her, his arms wrapped around her.

  ‘Thank you,’ she said, as she opened her eyes and stepped out of his arms. ‘Now, how do I deal with these?’ pointing to her wings.

  Alexander smiled unrepentantly at her - she’d definitely come to love flying, he was sure of it. Stepping back, he concentrated and his wings simply vanished.

  ‘How did you do that?’ asked Rowanne, as she walked behind him, looking at his back. She could not see any noticeable tear in his clothes. Where did they go? she wondered, and started to examine his back with her hands.

  ‘Rowanne, what are you doing?’ asked Alexander amused.

  Having given up, she replied, ‘I was trying to ascertain where your wings disappeared to.’