Winter's Fall

by Alessandra Jay

  “The way it’s happening to you, yes. But I believe that your heart was made to withstand the strongest of storms, to face the hardest obstacles, even to overcome the saddest heartbreak. You were chosen because of the valiant warrior that you are, Scar.”

  She lowers her head as a tear rolls down her cheek and pulls me into a deep hug. We stay that way for a few minutes until my phone begins ringing in my pocket. I turn it over to see Ava’s name on the screen. Scarlet and I exchange looks of concern as I answer it.

  “Evan! Wherever you are, you need to run!” Without hesitation, I snap my fingers to cast our skateboards and motion for Scarlet to follow me. With another flick of my wrist, I cast a device to appear in each of our ears. As we skate towards the portal, I return to Ava.

  “Ava, what is happening? Why are we running away? Better yet, what are we running away from?” I say, breathless. Quickly she responds.

  “We haven't had a warning of Fallen hunters in ages and we just received word of one in the New York area. Please tell me Scarlet hasn't let out her power.” I watch Scarlet wince as she hears Ava's last request.

  “Well, Syracuse was getting invaded by Gaur demons. Something had to be done. For the mortals’ sake, at least.” I tell her honestly. She sucks in a breath and curses.

  “I understand. As long as you’re all safe.” She says, reminding me of our Mack situation.

  “About that…” I begin.

  “Oh, heavens. What more?” Ava cuts me off, saying it with dread in her tone.

  “We are all safe, but when the guys and I were outside battling the demons, Mackenzie didn't know and followed behind us. She shouldn't have seen us fighting them. But she did. She saw the demons and felt Scarlet’s power when she casted the protection spell. How can that be possible?” I ask with much concern. Scarlet and I make our last turn as we hear nothing but silence on the other side.

  “Ava?” I ask again as we arrive at our destination.

  “Scarlet, I know you can hear me and I deeply apologize for bringing you back to this dark place, but I need you to be completely honest. When Mackenzie was being tortured by the caster from the Dark Coven in the cave, what did they do to hurt her?” She says it quickly and it takes Scarlet by surprise. We are almost to the portal when Scarlet comes to a stop.

  “They put their wands up to her neck and sent bolts of lightning into her veins until she passed out.” She replies, with fresh tears escaping her eyes.

  “Poor mortal.” Ava says, more to herself.

  “When a mortal comes in direct contact with a caster’s power, especially if it is placed to enter the mortal with no obstruction, a trace of that power is left lingering inside of the mortal’s heart. Their bodies can’t withhold the power of our world though, and they lose their life. In Mackenzie's case, that dark caster placed a bolt of his power in the lighting as it entered her veins and struck her heart. My assumption is they weren't planning on letting her live afterward if they succeeded in their abduction of you, Scarlet.” What she says takes us both by surprise.

  “So what you're saying is that Mack has dark caster power running through her heart right now?” Scar asks with a shaky voice.

  “Precisely. Mackenzie will be the first mortal to live to tell the tale. To be honest, we should write down the effects for future research. Clearly, seeing demons and feeling your power are two things that she has attained so far. Maybe there are more things we can learn from her situation. Where is she now?” Ava asks, stunning us both into silence. We can’t tell her she’s on her way to the Village and I don't think I’ve ever lied to the head Elder before. So I do my best not to.

  “She fainted after she felt Scarlet’s power, so Derek is with her.” I say, as I watch Scarlet let go of the breath she was holding.

  “She needs to be kept safe. And although I do believe Derek can do that, I think it would be best if she was around more than one caster. I can’t believe I’m going to say this, but I think it’s what needs to be done. I can feel it. Evan, what do you think about allowing Mackenzie entry into Salem Village.”

  As she completes the question, Scarlet and I can only stare at each other in complete shock. With neither of us knowing what to say, Ava giggles her reaction.

  “So that’s a yes then?” At the same time, Scar and I reply our answer to our ironically unforeseen situation.

  “Yes.” With another giggle, Ava speaks to end the conversation.

  “Good. Call me when you get there. That'll give me enough time to think about whether we should sneak her in or let it be known that she’s a guest. Remember there is a Fallen in the area, so stay alert and be safe.”

  The line ends and all I can think to say in bewilderment is, “What the hell just happened?”

  Chapter 5

  Village Mutt

  “So I guess that means the mission to sneak Mack in is off?” Scarlet says, as she begins to pace. I'm unsure why she looks even more stressed than she did before. I personally think it worked out better for us.

  “As of now, no. The Elders may know, but Ava said to call her when we get there. If we’re seen by casters sneaking a mortal in, who’s to say they won’t attempt to bring mortals in themselves. So yes, we still may need to sneak her in. At least now we don't have to hide it from the Sisters.”

  I try to say this with calmness in my voice, but Scarlet spins around to face me with a surprised and unpleasant look on her face. I can see her double-guessing the decision to bring Mack to the Village. So much has happened so quickly, but I truly believe staying in the Village will be a good thing, and the safest plan, for all of us.

  “This is terrible, Evan! We just continue to place poor, mortal Mackenzie into the dangers of the Caster world. So many things can go wrong.”

  She begins to babble, so I gently cut her off, “Scar, everything is going to be alright. I promise. Mack will be kept quite safe in the Village. And I think it will be perfect for her and for us. Maybe showing her the good of the Caster world will help her state of mind.” I say softly, as I pull her in closer to my body.

  Scarlet’s eyes fall to the floor as she nods her head in agreement.

  “Let’s go. I really need to be in the kitchen baking something.” She says honestly. Snapping my fingers to reveal the portal, I quickly grab Scarlet and jump through.

  The thought of her baking has my mouth already watering and I don't even know what masterpiece she is going to make yet. What feels like forever, I finally get a giggle out of Scar and I didn't realize how much I missed the sweet sound until I hear it.

  It makes me sad that life is so discombobulated right now. Not only for Scar, but for everyone. I’m also heartbroken over the loss of Charlie, but I can’t even imagine what their hearts feel like. I'm hoping we can take a few days off to take full advantage of the Village, then get back to work on defeating the Dark Coven. The only thing I can do is commit to doing everything I can to make Scarlet as happy as possible for the rest of her life. Considering how deep my love goes for her, there’s nothing that will stop me from achieving this.

  Now that Scarlet knows where we are, she takes my hand and runs full angel speed out of the deserted store. I try to keep my eyes open as she pulls me, but this incredible speed we are traveling at took me by surprise and is making me dizzy. It isn't until we finally stop and I hear that sweet laugh again that I open my eyes. She shrugs her shoulders and I give her my best evil eye. With an added snort, she laughs at my reaction as I leave her with my squinting comical glare.

  I look around and see she has brought us around the corner from the Village, so I take out my phone and begin to dial Derek's number, when I feel Scarlet’s arms come around my back to hold me tightly. I place my hand over both of hers that are clasped together by my waist and she squeezes tighter.

  I can feel her love for me seeping out of her embrace; it’s so intense that I close my eyes and enjoy our private moment. I turn around to face her and stare Scarlet in the eyes to see her unintentionally c
asting her feelings of love into me, just like she used to. As incredible as it feels, I fear someone else can feel the effects of her power, especially since there’s been sightings of Fallen in New York, so I stay vigilant.

  “Scar, I love you so much. Your love feels unbelievable. I’ll show you how much love I have for you after we get inside.” I tell her in mind speak, as she steps up on her tiptoes to place a soft kiss on my lips.

  It was just soft enough to leave tingles throughout my entire body. With a deep breath I return my focus back to my phone to call my cousins and, thankfully, they aren't far. Just enough time for me to call Ava for any guidelines we might have to adhere to regarding Mack. She answers quickly and sounds eager to reveal her plans. With a flick of my wrist I again cast a hearing device into both of our ears.

  “I’ve made up my mind. We’re going to test Mackenzie, then decide after that. I have a plan for every scenario.” She sounds regal and you can hear the assurance in her tone.

  Confused, Scar asks, “What kind of test?”

  With a quick snicker, Ava replies, “Right. Well, bring her to stand in front of the Village. If she sees through the glamour, just let her walk in. If she can’t see it without your assistance, then we’ll have to keep her hidden for a while longer.” Now that I hear the explanation of the test, I see that it’s a good plan.

  “Okay. They should be here soon. I’ll have Hunter distract the front desk while we test Mack.” I instruct when Ava agrees, then begins her goodbyes with one last task.

  “If she sees the Village right away, get her settled in and then bring her to see Dr. Lizzie. Maybe she can help us figure out what is happening to Mack. I already spoke with her in case you have to sneak Mackenzie in. Lizzie will be the only caster to know of her presence. Call me to inform of the result. Good luck.”

  As soon as she hangs up, the ear buds disappear and I quickly mind speak with Hunter to let her know the plan. She is more than happy to get things going and I can tell Scarlet is, too. I know how Derek drives, which means they should be here any minute. Everyone is anxious and I’m beginning to get concerned by it.

  Thankfully, the three of them round the corner on the other side of the street. They will have to cross over to join us and this is the perfect opportunity to test Mack. Scar seems to be on the same page, as she intently watches her friend for any signs of a reaction.

  They begin to cross over and Mack stops in her tracks. She sucks in a breath and glues her stare on the gold building that is Salem Village. I am more relieved than I thought I would be. This means we don't have to betray our people by lying to them. But this is still the first time a mortal will step through the doors of any Village ever. This moment is monumental, to say the least.

  “Oh, my sweet Lord. That is the shiniest buildin’ I have ever seen. The gold is shinin’ everywhere. Wow.” Mack says breathlessly, as she admires the beauty we all get to escape to. Scar skips over to take Mack's hand in hers.

  “I know. Wait until you see the inside.” And with that, for the first time in a long time, I see a flash of excitement run through them both.

  As they begin walking in, I notice Luke still struggling. To help him get back to himself any time soon will be short of a miracle, but it’s something I deeply want to help him with. I miss seeing my cousin happy and I wish there was something I could do to ease his pain. He notices my sympathy and leaves me with a small smile as we walk inside. Hunter clumsily barrels her way towards us and I see Mack flinch. It's only when she sees her hug Scar that she releases the tension.

  “I believe you two have met.” Scar says, as she intertwines her hands with them both. Hunter leads the way inside and gives Mack her full attention.

  “I can’t imagine how hard it must have been for you that day at the cave. I’m really sorry you went through that, Mackenzie. You’re incredibly strong and you’re a survivor. We’re going to do all we can to make you feel comfortable and safe while you're here at the Village and to show you how kind casters really are.”

  I notice the twinkle in Scarlet’s eyes as she listens to the heavy sentiment that Hunter just told her mourning friend. Mack sniffles, confirming the strong impact of her declaration. She simply nods her head as they begin to move up the left staircase.

  The caster guide, Pearl, hurries forward to stop me in my tracks and it’s enough commotion to cause everyone else to stop and turn.

  “Mr. White, is that a mortal? In the Village? I don't understand. I mean, I can see it’s okay because Sister Hunter and Sister Scarlet are here to welcome her, but what do I tell the others?” I stop her because she is starting to babble.

  “Pearl, I understand the confusion and you are correct, this situation is approved by the Caster’s Council themselves. Both Sister Hunter and Mackenzie will be gracing us with their presence until further notice. What you can tell everyone is that there is not a thing to worry about, there is not a mortal in the Village; that rule is still in effect and applies to everyone that enters here. Lizzie will have answers for us soon. Please continue to go about your duties as if nothing has changed.”

  Pearl quickly nods her head and scurries to her place behind the desk. I look forward to continuing our route upstairs when I catch a glimpse of Scarlet’s red cheeks before she turns back around.

  “You handled that flawlessly, Mr. White.”

  Scarlet

  There are so many emotions I'm feeling that it’s beginning to get difficult to separate them. I don't think the transition to my angel side is helping, either. It seems to push everything I do into overdrive and controlling it is challenging. Thankfully, my Anima Partem can read me like an open book and always catches me when I'm about to fall.

  As we make our way into the elevator, Evan lays out the plan, “Why don't we show you where you're going to be staying, Mack. I have an entire floor to myself, so you can stay in the suite right next to ours. Derek and Luke can stay there with you so you're not alone. Hunter is in the suite on the opposite side. I know Scar wants to bake something, so would you like to take it easy and hang out before we take you on the grand tour?” He makes it sound so tempting.

  “That sounds like heaven, Mr. White.” Mack jokes, and it brings light back into my heart. We are slowly but surely getting out of the fog that mourning has taken us under. We snicker as we hear him grunt behind us.

  Amused, he sadly changes the mood when he lists out the rules for Mack to hear. I'm guessing it’s something every caster has to hear when they first come here. But then again, she isn't a caster. We have got to meet with this Lizzie healer because I am afraid and eager to hear what has happened to my once mortal friend.

  The elevator dings our arrival and the doors slide open to a too-loud welcome from the boisterous Light Coven. Mack jumps back, startled by Owen, as he shouts “WELCOME MORTAL!” Hunter steps forward and smacks him hard on his arm.

  Confused by his harmless antics, he rubs at his arm while she chastises him for startling Mack. Surprisingly though, the whole scene must have had a different effect on Mack because she belts out laughing harder than I’ve heard in awhile. It’s contagious and has us all wiping our tears as we walk into the suite she’ll be staying in.

  Mack is taken aback as she takes in the place she gets to call hers for awhile. It looks almost exactly like Evan’s suite, only this one is decorated with a feminine touch.

  “This is amazin’! Why don't we go to your place so you can start your bakin.’ I can wander round this place later.” She says, eager to continue with the day.

  I can see the light coming back to her and I can’t be more gratified. We all turn to walk back out into the hallway, when I notice Luke pulling Evan back for a personal conversation.

  As we wait outside of the door, Evan is the only one to come out.

  “He needs time alone for awhile. He said he’ll be over later.” Evan somberly tells me, as he enters the key to his suite. My heart breaks all over again as I realize I have been so focused on helping Mack th
at I completely forgot about how Luke must be feeling. He lost the love of his life and that’s not something you can fix with a snap of your fingers.

  “Do you think he would mind if I brought him over some of the dessert later?” I ask, hoping that can bring his spirits up just a little. Evan nods his head, agreeing with my suggestion. When he pushes open the door, it’s then that I get a flashback of the day of the abduction. This was the last place I was before everything went to hell. It feels like a punch in the stomach.

  Evan squeezes my hand as he leads me into the kitchen to quickly set up and get started. He can see I need the distraction now more than ever.

  “So what masterpiece are you concocting for us?” Oliver says, as he grabs a seat at the small kitchen table.

  Quickly thinking, I squint over to my eccentric roommate, “Blondies. The last time we had brownies, it was the most fun we’ve ever had.” I respond, already thinking up all of the ingredients. With a snap of my fingers, I will my power to escape from my fingertips as all of the ingredients and tools I need appear on the counter. Forgetting that Mack is still slightly new to casting, I cringe when I realize I should have asked her permission to cast in front of her.

  “It’s okay, Scar. Y’all don't have to hide what you do just ‘cause I'm here. I’ll get used to it.” She assures me, noticing my inner dilemma. With a smile, I begin my prepping. Just as everyone gets comfortable, there is a knock at the door. Evan waves his hand and a small hologram appears in front of us. A tall and lanky woman awaits on the other side.

  “Lizzie.” Evan says, answering all of us who look confused. He answers the door and welcomes the Village healer in. As she walks into the kitchen I have to crane my neck to look her in the eyes. Her intimidating height compliments her flawless beauty.