Protectors of the Elemental Magic - Books 1-3

Protectors of the Elemental Magic

BOOKS 1-3

MARNIE CATE

Contents

Remember

Acknowledgments

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Epilogue

Exigency

Foreword

Acknowledgments

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

Epilogue

Mazy

Acknowledgments

Mazy

Part I

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

II. Meg

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Chapter 41

Chapter 42

Chapter 43

Chapter 44

Chapter 45

III. Mara

Chapter 46

Chapter 47

Chapter 48

Chapter 49

Chapter 50

Chapter 51

Chapter 52

Chapter 53

Chapter 54

Chapter 55

Epilogue

Envy

About the Author

Copyright (C) 2023 Marnie Cate

Layout design and Copyright (C) 2023 by Next Chapter

Published 2023 by Next Chapter

Cover art by Lordan June Pinote

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the author’s permission.

Remember

PROTECTORS OF THE ELEMENTAL MAGIC BOOK 1

In the honor of my Gram whose love and guidance were with me in each page. And my sweet Lilli, you were not only my furry muse….

Acknowledgments

Thanks to J.M. Northup for her editorial support. From our collaboration, I learned so much about not only writing but the editorial process.

Chapter

One

Smoke filled the skies, and the heat from the flames of the burning homes and storefronts was unbearable. Main Street was empty. Stores that were not ablaze had been ransacked.

The ice cream shop, once filled with happy customers, looked as if a tornado blew through it. Broken tables, chairs, and meals littered the ground. My eyes fell on a silver name tag surrounded by ash. I cringed when I saw the burnt body of a waitress underneath. Her badge was the only item not blackened or damaged.

I forced myself to keep moving as I searched for anything or anyone familiar. I continued to find only destruction. It was futile. I was alone.

Fighting back my tears, I looked to the sky and cried out, Gram, I am not strong enough!

A blinding light surged through me, and I fell to my knees. My world went dark. The next thing I knew, a hand gripped mine and dragged me. Stumbling and confused, I pulled against my captor.

Stop fighting me, the familiar voice of my grandmother scolded.

Gram stopped long enough for me to confirm it was her.

Where are you taking me? I questioned.

No time for talking.

Once again, we were moving quickly through the tree line. I no longer resisted as my grandmother led through the forest. My home was being destroyed, and I didn't know who to blame or how to stop them.

The dark smoke grew thicker, and my chest burned. I began to cough. I fell to my knees, unable to go on any farther.

No, get up. We are almost there. Gram ripped a piece of fabric from her dress and wrapped it around my mouth.

When the coughing stopped, she tugged my hand and encouraged me to stand. When I complied and she propelled us onward, our pace was even faster. Just when I thought I would collapse again, Gram stopped in front of a broad oak tree.

She looked around, though I wasn’t sure why. There was not a sound in the forest. We were alone.

Suddenly, she ducked into the overgrown plants. Her hand trailed the thick trunk of the tree. When we reached a split in the bark, Gram pushed me forward into the crevice.

Hide here, she commanded.

I resisted and grabbed onto her. Choking back my tears, I begged, No, let me go with you.

She hugged me and smoothed my hair. Mara, my little one, always remember that you are my treasure. You must prepare to be strong for when the darkness appears.

Don't leave me, I sobbed.

Hush. You will hide and survive, Mara. She pressed a cold metal object into my hand and kissed my cheek. This ring will be your guide when I am not here to remind you.

I wanted to ask her where she was going and what I needed to be reminded of, but I never got my chance. With those words, she shoved me into the hiding spot and left. I struggled to hold back my tears. I resisted the urge to follow my grandmother away from the safety of trees and back towards the smoky flames of the burning buildings.

Clutching the ring, I could feel cold energy releasing from the blue stone. The surrounding silver calmly pulsed small, almost indistinguishable bursts of electricity like a heartbeat. The charm slowly chanted, Go there, go there.

But where? I wondered, closing my eyes, and centering my thoughts on the stone.

I saw the Starten Forest with its deep green and lush trees. The bright full moon shone above a nest. It was like none I had ever seen before. The large nest was made of silver twigs with a lavender glow in the center.

I know where to go now, Gram, I whispered.

A loud crash sounded, and I heard the cries of a child.

It was my sister, Meg.

She needed me, but I could not see where she was. I fumbled in the darkness, trying to reach her. My heart was racing as I frantically searched for my escape. I banged my shin on something hard and fell to the ground.

As I lay writhing in pain, a small crack of light appeared. Awareness washed over me, and everything began to make sense. I patted the hardwood floor underneath me before I laughed out loud.

I was not in the forest. Reaching up for the switch, I flipped on the overhead light and looked around my closet. I let out a sigh of relief that I was home.

Trembling as the adrenaline of my night terror began to wear off, I quickly exited the closet. The sounds of the busy kitchen below comforted me. I breathed in the sweet cinnamon pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. My home grounded me.

It was just a dream, I told myself.

Pushing away the unsettling dream, I looked around my bedroom. Unsurprisingly, my little sister's bed was empty. The nine-year-old seemed to have a surplus of energy that, even though I was only seventeen years old, I couldn't keep up some days. Meg was full of ideas and dreams that I had forgotten many years ago.

Sizzling sounds of bacon and the clatter of dishes being laid on the table jolted me into action. In Gram’s world, there was no sleeping in. Not wanting to worry her, I quickly dressed.

I glared at the wavy curls that plagued me, and I pulled my long raven hair into a ponytail. I should just cut it all off. I shuddered at my thought as I remembered the short haircut I gave myself when I was ten. I vowed to never play with scissors again after that day.

My image in the mirror would not please my grandmother. Gram would be concerned by the dark circles around my eyes, which only enhanced by my pale white skin. I didn't want to tell her the nightmares – that had been gone for so long – had suddenly returned. However, a full night's sleep seemed like a distant dream, and it was starting to show.

Quickly dusting my face with powder and lining my hazel eyes with dark purple, I looked at my reflection again. Add some dark red lipstick, and you can look like a vampire from those old books Gram loves, I said aloud. With a long sigh, I glossed my lips with cherry lip gloss and then practiced a fake smile.

It was time to join my family.

As I climbed down the ladder of the loft bedroom, I stopped to inspect each rung. The ladder was aged, and each step had a different name carved on it. On the sixth rung, I ran my fingers over the letters. Slowly tracing the letters, I tried to remember her. How can I barely recall this person – my mother?

Today isn't the day to think of the past, I scolded myself. Feeling frustrated for even thinking about her, I finished the descent down into the warmth of the kitchen and my family.

My grandmother's home – my home – was a large spacious house. When you entered it, you immediately felt a warm, inviting feeling. The colors of the house were bright and cheery, but not overwhelming.

A half-wall divided the spacious kitchen, where Gram could usually be found, from the living room. The white walls of the large room contrasted with its comfortable furniture. The variety of bright colors welcomed you to sit and relax. You could sit on either the purple or lime green overstuffed couches. Both would wrap you in a big fluffy embrace as you settled into them. If you wanted to be alone, you could pick one of the overstuffed chairs. Depending on my mood, I could choose to snuggle up on either a yellow, an aqua, or a red one.

The loft bedroom I shared with my sister was nestled above the cozy kitchen and over the sleeping quarters of the house. The high half-wall made my bedroom private, but not closed in.

I thought you were going to sleep the day away. Gram greeted me with a kiss on the cheek and handed me a plate filled with fresh fruit, fluffy pancakes, and two slices of thick, crispy bacon.

Good morning, Gram, this looks great. I threw on my fake smile, forcing myself to be cheery.

She gently touched my forearm before returning to the stove to stir the pot of berries she was slowly cooking.

I flopped into the seat by my sister and took a long sip of the tea that had been waiting for me. It was the perfect temperature. For some reason, even the delicious breakfast and giggles of Meg could not break the gloomy mood I was in.

Can I have your pancakes, Mar? Meg whispered while eyeing our grandmother. Gram only made me a tiny stack, and they are sooooo good!

Meg's big green eyes, surrounded by thick black lashes, pleading were hard to resist. Just one. I slid it onto her plate and tapped her on the nose with my finger.

What about the bacon? Meg asked with a sly smile. Mar ahhhh…

Using the nickname she had given me usually was the key to her getting her way with me. Marina Addisyn Stone was the name I was given, and nicknames from childhood friends came and went. Then along came Meg and her inability to pronounce Marina. Her name for me became the name I loved the most – Mara.

You may be pushing it, kid. I laughed.

Gram quietly chuckled before turning away from the sink to give me a wink — her silent blessing to continue.

Once Meg ate the last bite of her breakfast and helped clear my plate, she gave her standard thumbs-up, confirming the meal was delicious. I couldn't help but laugh at how cute my little sister could be.

Gram, you didn't eat anything. I placed the cleared dishes in the sink and began to wash them. You need to keep your strength up to keep up with Meg.

I know, love. Gram took the plate I was washing and put it back into the sink. Let these soak.

I looked over at my sister, who had moved to a small game table in the living room. The stuffed animals she had lined up were getting a lecture on the importance of eating breakfast. The smell of cinnamon, vanilla, and lavender filled my nose as Gram drew me into her arms and tightly hugged me.

Gram, do you think we'll ever see her again? I don't understand how she could just disappear, and no one knows where she went for so long.

Gram's eyes grew dark as they always did when I asked about my mother. She cleaned a dish and handed it to me, nodding at a nearby kitchen towel. This signaled the conversation was over, and there would be no point in pressing further.

I dried and neatly put each item in its place in the cupboards. Dishes in bright shades of red, orange, yellow, green, and blue made a rainbow of color. Not one matched but still seemed to be part of a perfect set to me.

Gram returned to the jam she was making. Her face was washed with a sadness that I had caused. I wished I could take back my question.

I kissed Gram on the cheek and swiped the spoon from her hand. Quickly, I stuck it in my mouth before I lost my stolen treat. Mmm. You outdid yourself on this batch.

Really, Mara, Gram scolded.

I grinned sheepishly and put the spoon in the sink. I'm going to meet Cole. He is going to teach me how to catch trout today.

Trout, huh? Gram smirked.

Yes, he said I would chicken out. Of course, I can't let him be right.

But you are a scaredy-cat, Meg called.

I am Mae Veracor's granddaughter. There isn’t a weak bone in my body, I teased, tousling Meg's light brown locks. What does a little princess like you know anyway? The summer has faded your hair so much that We'll have to start calling you Cinderella.

Meg stuck her tongue out at me before falling into a fit of laughter.

Bounding out the door, I carried the satchel filled with the day's necessities. I followed the paved road in front of my house that would eventually lead to the center of town. The lingering terror of my dream haunted me as I traveled. Images of burned homes and burnt bodies flashed before my eyes.

There was no fire. Everyone is safe, I scolded myself.

After less than a mile and having passed several homes, I reached my destination. At the end of a cobblestone walkway, I casually strolled towards the pale-yellow house. When Cole saw me, he dropped the ball he had been bouncing.

Took you long enough! I have been waiting all morning. I thought you chickened out. Cole grinned.

Cole Oliver Sands always took my breath away when I saw him. His dark brown hair had grown long over the summer, covering his deep blue eyes, which were framed with thick black lashes. With a big breath, he blew the offending hair out of his face and continued to scold me.

I really thought I might grow old and die waiting for you to show up. Cole feigned a swoon and slumped over the patio railings.

I'm not late. I handed him the bag I had packed. You, my dear, are just impatient. I was getting the things you insisted we needed. I still question the necessity of peanut butter and jam sandwiches. Whoever heard of trout swarming for PB&J? I put my hands on my hips in mock anger and gave him my signature eyebrow lift.

Laughing, he tore one of the sandwiches out of the bag and began to devour it. In three large bites, the sandwich was almost gone, and Cole had forgotten I was late. Yes, these will do. Gram's is the best cook in the town, he greedily proclaimed.

I couldn't disagree. Gram was known for her delicious food. When I was younger, my grandmother had taught me that mashing ripe berries with lemon juice and brown sugar made the best jam. Each jar was an individual batch she made with love. Even her homemade peanut butter was really unique. She added a pinch of cinnamon and cayenne pepper that tasted amazing with the jam. Adding these flavors with the sweet wheat bread that was made yesterday morning, the sandwich would make it hard for anyone to not be happy.

Cole popped the last bite into his mouth. Now, with my need for sustenance out of the way, I should thank you properly for your kindness.

In a swift movement, he grabbed my hand and swept me into his arms. His firm grip felt warm and even a bit sticky from the sandwich. But not even that could change the way my heart felt when I was with him. Everything seemed right. He kissed me tenderly and proceeded to nuzzle my neck.

Cole was strong, but not overly muscular. His hug seemed to soften the dark feelings I felt, and the warmth of the affection drowned out the negative emotions that were haunting me. I felt safe in his arms.

As quickly as he had begun, he let go of me. Tempting to stay here all day, Mara, but if you want to be trained in the way of a trout fisherman, we best get going.

Sighing, I composed myself. I had asked for this adventure. I only hoped I wouldn't regret it.

Chapter

Two

Cole led us past the cottage behind his house, deep into a part of Starten Forest I was not familiar with. The thickness of the trees threw off my internal compass. The woodland began to thin as we started down a path.

Ignoring my apprehensions, I pushed away my fears. Cole knew exactly where we were going. However, my trust wavered the higher we climbed. We were too far from my home.

You didn't say we were going to climb any mountains today, I complained. Gram is going to kill you if you get me lost up here.

She won't. See that path right there? He motioned towards large stones and overgrown brush. We are going to follow it down to the river.

I had no doubt there would be snakes and spiders, waiting to attack. If there was a trail to follow, I couldn't see it.

The path over there looks smooth and safer. Why don't we look for trout up there? I suggested.

Gram will kill me if we go up there. If we keep walking, we’ll be joining the Drygens for dinner. Cole clutched his heart in mock fright.

I wrinkled my nose at the thought. The wealthiest family in town was also known for being the cruelest. Gram had taught me from a young age that money didn't have a heart and, sometimes, greed could turn a person cold. I looked from the beaten path to the treacherous one, weighing my options. Death by a snake or being pushed off the mountain by a Drygen? Neither sounded appealing.

Cole laughed. Be brave, Mar. We're going down there, even if I have to carry you. He wrapped his arms around my waist as if doing just that. I cried out in protest.

He nuzzled my neck and whispered, Shh, Mar, look out there.

We were so high up that I could see even the farthest edge of Starten. Nestled within the emerald-green trees, I could see our community. Our homes were little boxes of color.

Oh, I murmured in surprise.

Isn't it amazing how s our little town's problems are if you look at it from afar? he asked softly. Up here, we can just breathe and forget our worries. When will you ever trust me, Mar?

I trust you, I whispered my half-truth.

Cole and I had known each other for so long that he understood my fears. He held me tighter and allowed me to take in the view silently. After our brief moment of contentment, we reluctantly began down the pathway.

I tried to focus on everything around me to prevent my mind from racing. It was easy to do since the trail was so overgrown. I knew it had been forgotten. Our secret place, I thought.

In no time, we left the quiet of the mountain for babbling water. The river we walked along was purple with blue froth. The current grew stronger as we continued. I knew if we kept walking, we would eventually reach the rainbow-colored waterfalls that fed into Sparrow Lake.

A flock of gold and silver butterflies appeared. I stopped to watch as they swam against the current. Here, I could learn to calm my mind, I realized.

In the quiet of the forest, I recalled Gram's stories of magic. It was as if everything around me had a tale. Watching the butterflies, I remembered the story of Three Billy Goats Gruff. The gold and silver powder from butterfly wings had been used to put the troll to sleep, so the bridge could be crossed.

One day, I found a book at Thompson's Used Book and Sauerkraut Store. It contained all the stories Gram had told me at bedtime, but the stories were slightly different. There was not a butterfly sleeping powder that helped the goats, but rather, an older, stronger goat had pushed the troll into the water.

When questioned, Gram patted my hand and said, My stories are more memorable.

A high-pitched squeak pulled me back to the present. Above us, a fighting trio of green squirrels drew my attention. The rodents’ metallic green fur glimmered in the sunlight, and reflections bounced off the water as they flew through the air.

Gram had told us the stories about Starten, and what it had been like before the Drygen Cannery explosion. She’d explained how the water sources had been polluted. Some liked to believe it was magic that changed everything, but the hefty fine paid and admittance of fault, by the cannery proved more feasible.

Gram loved to show us pictures of her mother's world. A time before the change. Everything seemed so odd. The only flying squirrels did was to glide from tree-to-tree. Butterflies flew in the air and avoided water. They did not swim in streams. Instead, trout swam in the river and were caught using poles with a worm on a hook at the end. The thought of that always grossed me out.

Are we close yet? I whispered, shaking off the repulsive thought.

Cole nodded and placed one finger on his mouth to remind me not to speak. In the brush ahead, I saw bright, colorful tails, swaying back and forth. Tugging Cole's hand, I pointed. He nodded and grabbed the net gun from his bag.

As we got closer, he motioned for me to stay put and handed me a hand-woven net on a stick. I raised my hands to question this.

Catch any that get away, he whispered.

Cole picked up a rock from the stream and threw it at the bush. The trout began scrambling out from under it, heading towards him. He launched the massive silver net. It flew through the air before it landed and trapped six adult trout. They snapped their teeth and slammed their black and pink bodies against their captor.

Several small gray baby trout scurried towards the area where I waited. Quickly, I lowered the net and covered them. When several escaped, I rapidly shoved them back under the net with my boot.

The net confused them, and they began circling. Cole! What do I do now?

Cole laughed and came towards me. The net over his shoulder held two large trout. Each was over a foot long and no longer moving. The ones selected to live were now scrambling into the underbrush. They were probably going deep into their holes to wait for the danger to go away.

As he walked, Cole threw a trail of crumbs from his sandwich behind him. When he was about ten feet from me, he said, Lift the net now. The little ones need to go back to their nest to grow.

I lifted the net and watched the grey babies scamper back to their home, stopping along the way to gobble the crumbs Cole had dropped.

This should be enough to feed us for months, Cole said and handed me the net. The net was at least thirty pounds.

Shouldn't I have watched you decide which adults to let go and how to…you know? I asked, uncomfortable with the thought that the trout were living just minutes before.

You know this is crazy. He grabbed my hand and pulled me close. You won't ever be without me. There is no need for you to prove you can do this. I promise I will always take care of you.

He leaned in and slowly kissed me. Quickly, the gentle kiss became harder and more demanding. Wanting to be consumed in the feeling, I kissed him back, slowly running my free hand up and down his spine. Cole abruptly pulled away, taking the net from me. I sighed in frustration. How quickly he can abandon me, I thought bitterly.

Come on, Mar. Don't be mad. It's getting late, and Gram will worry. Cole kissed my hand.

Once again, he chose to be practical over being consumed by passion. I couldn't help feeling disappointed. I removed my hand from his grasp.

Don't be like that. Cole brushed his lips against my cheek as he whispered, We wouldn't want Gram to think I'm not a gentleman, would we?

I nodded and wiped the scowl from my face. The way Cole always considered my grandmother's feelings was one of the things that made me love him. However, sometimes, I just wanted to get lost in the moment. For just a second, I could feel all fear and doubt fade away while lost in his embrace.

As we walked back, hand-in-hand, to deliver our catch to Gram, I suddenly felt a lingering sense of dread wash over me. Forever promises never seemed real. The dark feeling did not make sense to me. I had spent the day with the man I loved and trusted. How could I feel forever was possible one minute, wanting to be swept up away, and then allow myself to drown in the nagging sense that anything I loved would be lost the next? Must I always destroy things before they have a chance to hurt me?

Later that evening, Gram cooked up the trout with her special peach sauce and served it on a bed of golden rice. The fresh vegetables from the garden were crisp and flavorful. The water, with lemon raspberry ice cubes, was refreshing.

Mae Veracor, you're the best cook. I should ask you to run away with me, right now, Cole joked between bites and reached for another helping.

Gram swatted him and laughed. Save some food for the girls.

Light conversation filled the dinner table, and my fears from earlier faded. I felt calm and at ease while I watched my family joking, enjoying the meal. I could not understand why my emotions were always such a roller coaster ride. Perhaps, I just needed to learn to live in the moment and stop worrying about the unknown.

Meg savored each bite. When she thought Cole was not looking, she stole nibbles from his plate and giggled. As much as I wanted to enjoy her playfulness, I still felt tense.

A voice snuck into my head. It softly reminded me not to believe this would last. It never did.

I won’t listen, I told myself. Shaking away the doubt, I began clearing the table.

Who has room for dessert? Gram asked.

Two scoops for me, Gram! Meg shouted.

Dessert was homemade black licorice ice cream. Gram dished up two tiny scoops, added red sprinkles to the top of Meg's treat and handed it to the little girl.

But…I'm ten years old. I'm old enough for a bigger helping, Meg protested.

You aren't ten yet. Don't wish away your youth. Gram gently kissed Meg on the head. Let's save room for later.

I smiled at Gram. We both knew Meg's eyes were larger than her little tummy. I set the bowl Gram had scooped for me onto the table.

Thank you for everything. I love you so much. I hugged my grandmother tightly. Her silver hair felt soft against my cheek.

I love you, too, Mara. No matter how my day had gone or how confused my emotions could be, Gram always made me feel better. I want you to come with me, she whispered.

When I released her, she grabbed my hand and softly patted it. Cole, can you watch Meg for a bit? I want to steal Mara away.

I think I can handle this little ball of trouble. Cole stole a bite of her ice cream from my sister’s dish and laughed.

Not fair, Cos, Meg whined, using the nickname she had given him. Gram had said the nickname stuck because Cole was always the cause of any mischief that started.

Meg retaliated by scooping up a considerable amount of his dessert. I smiled as my sister filled the air with her devious giggles.

Cole raised his hands in surrender. Ok. Ok. You win. You win. Look, Mara is leaving her ice cream. We should eat hers.

You know he is going to get her more ice cream if we are gone too long, I warned.

I would expect nothing less from that boy, Gram responded.

Chapter

Three

Gram led me down the hallway, passing the bedrooms, and into the enclosed patio. She rummaged through a white cupboard, moving bottles and bags until she found a small white box. She pulled out a small crystal vial attached to a silver chain from the container. It was filled with a purple liquid that shimmered with green, blue, yellow, and red sparks. Something felt so familiar about this moment.

Holding the vial out to me by the chain, she said, When you were young, Mara, you knew things about the magic that I had not known until I was much older.

Magic? I just had a good imagination, I interrupted.

She raised her eyebrows at me.

Sorry, I'll listen, I apologized.

"By the time you were six years old, you were so comfortable with your gift that I became worried. I had begun to suspect that your mother was using her magic for Cedric Drygen.'

My gift? Is Gram losing her mind? I wondered.

She put the vial into my palm, enclosing my finger around it. She held my hand tightly. Please forgive me for taking away your memories and the magic you held. I only did what I thought was best.

What are you talking about? I asked, staring at the vial in my hand. My grandmother has definitely lost her mind. Magic isn’t real, Gram.

I needed to protect you. Please trust me. Drink this, and you will soon have the answers you seek, Gram pleaded. Her brown eyes glistened with tears which she quickly blinked away.

Her desperation frightened me, but I had no choice – I trusted her. My grandmother was the strongest person I knew. So, I took the top off the vial and inhaled the sweet-smelling liquid. Without another thought, I drank it. The cold fluid turned warm as it slid down my throat.

It just tastes like blackberrsh… The room began to spin. I reached out to my Gram, afraid of what was happening.

You will be fine, love. Sit down and rest. She led me to the wicker love seat, where I closed my eyes and drifted off to sleep.

The sound of a child humming roused me. Blinking to clear my vision, I found myself in my parents’ bedroom. Glancing over, I saw a young girl, admiring herself in front of a mirror.

Smiling, she smoothed her lengthy black curls and adjusted the white ribbon in her hair. She shifted the bow on the headband, ensuring it was in the perfect position – off to the left. With her hair in shape, she seemed focused on the lacy edges of her white socks. When they were folded perfectly, and her black shoes were shiny, she spun around. The girl giggled as her lavender dress lifted and showed white ruffles.

Strong feelings overwhelmed me, and I wanted to twirl until the room blurred into colors, and the light took ahold of me. That was when I realized I wasn’t watching a stranger. I was spying on a younger version of myself.

A creak sounded, and I whipped around to see the door open. I was faced with my grandmother. She looked so young, and her hair was no longer silver. Instead, she had long, light brown hair that she wore loose. She was beautiful in a long, sage green dress. I had forgotten how vibrant she could be.

I gasped when she walked through me as if I wasn't there. Of course, you aren't here. This is a memory, I chastised myself.

Calling out to my younger version, Gram laughed, Come along, my little dancer. Let's get your shoes on. We don't want you to be late for your guests.

Running towards my grandmother, my young self crowed, I have already put them on. I even buckled them without help.

Why, yes you did, Marina. I cringed at her using my full name. The name my mother insisted on using, even though she knew I preferred the nickname Meg gave me. Aren't you so smart. Gram opened her arms to welcome the child.

Do you think I look pretty today, Gram? Young Marina wrapped her arms around Gram's neck and hugged her tightly. I felt a twinge of envy.

You're always pretty, my love. You're what is most important - beautiful inside and out.

Gram set her down. Then, she held out her hand, and my younger version clasped onto it tightly.

I followed them as they left the bedroom and moved onto the patio. I half-expected to see myself sleeping there, but the chair was empty. Continuing to follow as they walked outside into the backyard, I inhaled the smell of the fresh-cut grass. The familiar scent of wood chips drew my attention to Gramp's workshop, which hummed with sawing and buzzing sounds.

I gasped in surprise as I saw over a dozen chickens and six cows grazing on grass and feed. The animal life had dwindled long ago as everything fell on Gram, and it became too much to maintain. She gave up the responsibility and chose, instead, to keep the vegetation.

Tall trees of a bright green were bursting with colored fruits, and the garden was overfilled with vegetables of all kinds. Gram had a natural way with plants, so much so that she made an arrangement with the local butcher, David Jones. She would keep him stocked with produce in trade for meat.

Young Marina's giggles pulled me back from my thoughts. We had reached the largest tree in the yard. Under the oak, a blue and white flowered picnic cloth had been laid out. In the center, a teapot and a plate of biscuits had been set up. Five small teacups, resting on saucers surrounded them, creating a ceramic rainbow of colors.

Young Marina sat in front of the white cup, and immediately exclaimed, Raspberry tea biscuits! My favorite. Thank you so much!

Gram kissed her cheek and said, Have a nice tea party. I will check on you later.

I wanted to follow my grandmother, hoping she was going to Gramp. I longed for one more glimpse of him. One more silly joke. One more warm hug. However, I knew my wishes were foolish. I was here for the return of my memories, not too long for what was gone.

Turning my attention back to Young Marina, I watched her fill her cup with hot tea. The citrus scent of the Lady Gray tea permeated the air. Gram only made her favorite black tea on special occasions. She once told me that it was the only kind of tea her mother, Genevieve, would drink.

After taking a small sip of her beverage, Young Marina murmured, Delicious. Humming, she began to fill the other cups, and carefully added several of the tea biscuits along the rim of the saucers.

As Young Marina sat patiently waiting for her guests, a great ball of white light appeared above her. It danced with colors of reds, blues, greens, and yellows that swirled in the center until it exploded into four separate balls. Bouncing directly over Young Marina, the four orbs were a breathtaking sight. The yellow ball held feathery streaks of blue that blew wildly inside. Flickering flames of orange tinged with pink filled the red one. Inside the blue orb were glittery white and aqua waves. The green sphere seemed to sprout little brown leaves and yellow flowers.

Dancing around each other, the balls of light hummed with magical sounds. It was a melody I felt I had heard before. It felt like a song I knew, but I couldn’t remember the words.

What a delight it was to see the free spirit within my young self. I wanted to join her as she clapped and danced joyfully. I wanted to feel carefree again. When the music stopped and the balls stilled, I wanted to cry out, More! More!

The red ball was the first to catch my eye as it began to grow. Expanding, it changed from a red ball to an orange flame that twisted and turned until it formed into a beautiful young woman. The petite girl was no more than a foot tall. Her long slender frame was covered in a red dress layered with shimmery orange scales. Large catlike eyes shone with golden radiance. Her long hair, a salmon-orange in color with dark red streaks, waved down her back.

Blaze, I said to myself, as I looked at her. I felt like I knew her.

The blue ball of light bounced up and down, pulling my attention away from Blaze. It went up high into the sky, moving faster and faster. In one swift moment, it suddenly stopped and came crashing down in a rapid descent. As it hit the ground, it splashed into a hundred droplets. As quickly as it had come apart, the water came back together and formed, yet another beautiful girl.

Both girls had round angelic faces and were not much taller than most of my old dolls. However, this time, the lady’s catlike eyes were piercing silver. She had straight blue hair with aqua streaks running through it that was tied up into a high ponytail. It was held by a seashell band that matched her glittery aqua dress.

As she twirled the short and frilly frock, the edges turned up, showing white and seafoam green petticoat. Her feet were covered by sparkly sandals of silver with straps that wrapped up around her calves. Spinning around, she laughed while spraying droplets of water flung about.

Bay, Young Marina called, would you like some tea?

Halting her movement, Bay plopped down in front of a blue cup and said, Of course, and another biscuit.

Sighing, Blaze rolled her eyes and shook her head at Bay's entrance, and then stared at the activity above. The green and yellow balls had begun circling around each other. Weaving up and down, it seemed as though they were competing. I could only assume they were trying to decide who would be next to join the party. Around and around, they went until they collided, both dropping to the ground.

The green sphere looked like it had destroyed itself. Instead of a round and green orb, it was now just a large brown mound of dirt. As I stared in shock, I watched a small green blade poke out from the soil. As it grew long, it began to sprout a yellow bud that grew until it formed a large white flower. It twisted and turned on the stem, taking shape as it rose. Another beautiful girl's face formed in the yellow center of the blossom.

Young Marina laughed. Daisy! Join us before your tea grows cold.

As her body formed, a dress of white adorned her tiny frame. This garment – covered with white and pink petals – went to just below her knees. Around her waist, she wore a sage green belt, and her bare feet had dark green painted on each of her toenails. Laughing, her deep emerald cat eyes widened as her wavy yellow locks grew out. The shoulder-length hair was messy and wild yet looked perfect on her.

Thank you, she said, as she kissed my younger version on the cheek before settling beside her cup.

With a burst of speed, the yellow ball swirled all around Young Marina until it turned into a small blue bird. Zipping by Daisy, the bird nipped the tea biscuit out of her hands just as she was going to take a bite.

Daisy shrieked, Breeze, stop showing off!

With a dramatic landing, the blue bird quickly changed, as the others had. She had pure white hair that was streaked with blues, greens, and gold. Her shoulder-length hair was fashioned in a long angled-cut style, where it was longer in the front than the back.

Her deep blue eyes glared at Daisy, and her pink lips turned into a pout. If Bay had not shown off with her ridiculous splash, I would not have had to fly around to dry off.

Smoothing her long blue dress, the fabric changed color with each run of her hand. When she was finally done fixing herself, the dress was no longer a deep navy blue, but rather, a peacock variety of colors shimmered throughout the fabric. I expected her to grow a fan of feathers, but instead, she settled by a teacup and pouted.

I watched on as they each took turns showing off for Young Marina, who delighted in everything they did. I felt so comfortable. I had an intense longing to join them, though I refrained from doing so.

Caterpillar. Where are you? The fun was interrupted by the loud male voice calling for me.

The tea party guests instantly disappeared. Young Marina straightened herself up and turned toward the man. I could see four marble sized balls flying high up in the tree.

Caterpillar was the nickname my father had given me. He would say that as I grew, I would change from a young worm into a powerful butterfly that would be respected and adored. A lump formed in my throat. I had grieved the loss of him for so long that the pain had finally subsided.

There you are, my father, Elliot Stone, called.

My heart raced. I wasn't ready to see him again. I couldn't lose my father twice. It's a memory, I chided myself.

The choice was made for me when my father walked through me. His light blond hair glistened, and his ordinally sun-kissed skin was a deep tan. I stared at his ruggedly handsome face, not sure how to feel. He had died when I was ten, but I often thought of what life would have been like if he had not.

Another ghost from my past was before me.

Hi, Daddy, Young Marina said as she ran to greet him. He picked her up and swung her around. Did you come to join my tea party?

Looking around at the partially eaten cookies and half-full cups of tea, he said, It looks like your party was interrupted. Where did all your guests go?

They all… She began to answer his question until a leaf fell from the tree and landed on the back of Young Marina's head. The blade grew a small hand that began tugging on the long strands of her hair.

She continued as if she understood the warning, They are right here. You know Sally, Susie, and Sandy. She gestured around herself towards imaginary friends.

Only three guests, but you have four cups? he questioned.

Oh, right and…and… she stammered.

Samantha, I whispered as I remembered my lie.

As if she had heard me, she quickly responded, Samantha. You know how shy she is.

Yes, of course, Samantha. How could I forget her? You must tell me all about your friends, he said. He sat down and took a tea biscuit from Blaze's saucer, popping it into his mouth.

Marina, I turned to see my grandmother waving from the patio door. I'm starting to make those cookies you wanted to bake. Are you ready to help me?

Yes, Gram, she replied. Sorry, Daddy, I promised I would help. Standing up and smoothing off her dress, she turned and headed towards the house.

Wait, he said, pulling the leaf out of her hair and handing it to her. It looks like you have a hitchhiker.

Thank you. Young Marina giggled. She took the leaf and then broke into a run.

Watching my father, I could see him inspecting the area. He seemed to be looking for something. From the house, my grandmother stood staring at him with a worried look in her eyes. The odd interaction made me wonder.

Regarding my father for one last time, I said, I miss you. Then, I walked back to the house without looking back.

I found Gram and Young Marina talking in the kitchen.

You are right, Marina. We should introduce them to your mother and father. Why don't we plan a special party this weekend? Gram suggested.

Around her, I could see the four balls of light bouncing up and down in agreement.

Now, drink this and let me know what you think of the taste. I watched my grandmother hand my young self a crystal vial on a silver chain filled with purple fluid, similar to the one that I drank.

It's really sweet. She licked her lips and tipped the rest of the vial's contents into her mouth. With a feeling of both sadness and wonder, I watched my younger version consume the liquid. When Young Marina collapsed into Gram's arms, my grandmother gently rocked her.

Her soft words were filled with pain. This is the only way to protect you. I hope you will, one day, understand why we couldn't tell them.

Tears flowed from my eyes. It explained why I always thought I would lose things I loved. Suddenly, the world spun around me, and the images blurred. I closed my eyes to push back the nausea. As everything slowed, I opened my eyes and found myself in my grandmother's arms, once again.

I'm sorry, love. I really wish I didn't have to take your memories from you. Gram's eyes shone with tears.

Hugging her tightly, I cried. I understand, but no more secrets, ok? I broke away, and our gaze locked onto each other.

Now that you remember the magic I took from you, it is time for you to decide if you are ready for it. You're right. No more secrets, Gram vowed.

Chapter

Four

Gram brought me to her bedroom. The space was bright and airy. Lavender, vanilla, and cinnamon faintly scented the air. The walls were bare, except for a large oval mirror. The silver frame had a straw-like design. To me, it looked like it was cradled inside a bird's nest.

Gram pulled out a silver chest from under her king-size mahogany bed. I had seen the chest as a young girl, snooping around. When I found it, I asked about the names engraved on it. She told me it was very special, and that mine would, one day, be on it, too. I begged for her to put my name on it, then and there. She laughed and promised I would learn more when it was time – the right time.

Gram set it before me. Open the chest, love. It is time you learn who we are and what's inside. This box was given to me by my mother. Each of the women on this chest promised to keep the elemental magic safe from those who would misuse it.

I traced the names with my fingertip. The name Genevieve felt warm and tingled as if it was a song. Tracing my grandmother's name, I felt the same warmth along with a rush of peace and tranquility. When I moved to the next one below Gram's, I stopped and stared. Eliza was icy and made my heart beat faster.

Why does her name feel so cold? Does it mean she's dead, Gram? I whispered.

Open the chest, and you will have answers to your questions, she promised, unable to hide the sadness in her voice.

When I opened the lid, the chest began to glow with a lavender light so intense that it lit up the room. Deep inside the box, resting on a satin bed, was a ring. Braided silver surrounded the robin egg blue stone. I picked it up and held it.

Looking back into the chest, I saw a dark-haired woman smiling as she placed a ring. It looked like the same piece of jewelry, except for her purple stone. Her image faded.

When the next woman appeared, I gasped as I recognized her. It was my grandmother. She was a teenager with long brown hair pulled into a delicate braid. White flowers were laced throughout the twisted locks. Her soft brown eyes shined as she held a dark blue ring in front of her and said, I promise to always protect this magic. I vow only to use it to protect and guide, never for self-benefit.

The first woman appeared again. She spoke in a firm voice as she gazed deep into my eyes. Marina Addisyn Stone, do you promise to protect this magic from those who would misuse it? Will you stand strong, and defend the magic when the time comes?

Before I could say a word, an image of a young girl appeared. It was undeniably my mother, Eliza. Her dark red hair flowed down her back in loose curls, and her green eyes shone proudly as she swore her oath as a protector while holding a ring with a light pink stone.

It was eerie to watch Eliza transform into a woman. This time, she was holding a black-haired baby. She sang sweetly to her cooing child – me. A burst of light flashed, and suddenly, Eliza held Meg, a bright-eyed baby with blonde curls. My ten-year-old self stood next to them. The way we felt was palpable.

The image turned gray. As it became clear again, I saw Eliza was no longer smiling. Her dark red hair was still long and flowing, but it was now a blackish-red streaked with pure white. Her once green eyes were black.

She wore a restrictive black bodice with fitted black pants that were embossed with a silver snake pattern running up the legs. The skintight clothes hugged her body as she walked slowly, carrying a gold-jeweled goblet. Her black boots had silver spiked heels that clicked on the dark granite floor, announcing her entrance to a man sitting in a large chair.

The man was dressed in a tight black T-shirt and wore black leather pants with the same snake pattern on the legs. The man's raven-colored hair was short and spiked with white tips. He had a long silver scar under his left eye.

The coldness in his black eyes seemed to warm as the woman approached him. He accepted the goblet she offered, and then pulled this dark version of my mother onto his lap, kissing her passionately.

Eliza placed her hand on his cheek and pushed him away. The ring on her finger was no longer pink. Instead, it glowed blood red. As she stroked the black stubble along his jaw, he gazed into the ring and smiled.

Soon, love, she whispered. Soon.

The image of my mother faded, and the comforting vision of the first woman returned. She repeated her question, Marina Addisyn Stone, my great-granddaughter, do you promise to protect this magic from those who would misuse it? Will you stand with us when the time comes?

Clutching the ring, I shut the chest and hid the woman within it. Hot tears fell down my face as I turned to face my grandmother.

You knew where my mother was all along? How could you keep the truth from me? How could you keep it from Meg? You know how much we have worried about her.

It was not safe for you to know. Gram grabbed my hand and held it tightly. If circumstances had not changed, I'm not sure I would have told you yet. But they are growing stronger. Hiding the truth from you is no longer protecting you. Sit and I will tell you what you need to know.

I held the anger that was welling inside me, took a deep breath, and sat down on the bed. My grandmother had always been there for me. If she held anything from me, it would have only been to protect us. She loved my mother as much as I did, and I could see the hurt in her eyes as she looked at me.

Gram took my hand and patted it in the comforting way she had done when I was a child. Then, she cautiously began her story. "Your grandfather was fifteen years older than me, and after years of marriage, I never thought I would be blessed by the Goddess with a child. When I was twenty-three, I had Eliza. Eliza was a wild child, full of mischief. She never wanted to hear ‘no’. If I warned her not to do something, she would run off and give it a try, no matter how risky it was.

"I repeatedly warned her about how dangerous it was to go off alone, especially into the Starten Forest. One day, when she was fourteen, she left the house early in the morning. When she hadn't come home by sunset, I had decided to search for her. I met her in the backyard. Her face was streaked with dirt, and her hair was covered with leaves.

"I could tell she was frightened, so I asked her about it. She claimed nothing was wrong. Eliza said she had just been lying in the grass, watching the clouds in the sky, when she drifted off to sleep. When I pressed her, she grew angry. I knew she wasn't telling me the truth, but forcing the issue would be of no use. My daughter was never the kind of child that would run to me for help.

After that day, Eliza seemed more cautious and listened to my warnings. She met your father not soon after and, four years later, they were married. After you were born, she seemed so happy. A faint hint of a smile showed in Gram’s expression, but it disappeared quickly.

She sighed deeply before resuming her tale. It was not until your father died that her behavior began to change. There was a darkness inside her. She began to dress provocatively, and she would sneak out of the house after you girls were sound asleep.

As Gram spoke softly, she continued to lightly pat my hand. The circular tapping motion of her palm seemed to erase my anger.

"One night, I followed Eliza. I found your mother with Cedric Drygen at Sparrow Lake. I suspected she had been meeting him, but that night, I confirmed my worst feelings. As they lay on the rocky shore, he convinced her to use the magic for him. He made promises of all the things he would provide for her. Eagerly, she charmed his rings and cast spells as they laughed and drank.

"Rushing home, I cast a spell and bound her pure magic. I couldn't let her use our magic for the Drygens. When Eliza returned that evening, she was enraged and screamed that she knew what I had done. At first, she cursed me, but then she tried to convince me to reverse it. Eliza said breaking the binding would be the best thing for you. Not believing her reasons, I told her she would no longer abuse our family's magic and that I would only consider her request when she was ready to honor the promise she had made to protect it.

She spat in my face and laughed. Eliza told me my silly promise would be the end of me. Without even packing a bag, she left the house and went straight to Cedric Drygen. My grandmother shook her head sadly. "If she were in her right mind, she would not have left my girls. The darkness inside her had turned her into a hateful person. Someone I no longer recognized.

Yes, Mara. I knew all along where she went. Gram took a long breath. I'm sorry I kept that from you.

You must be wrong! I said, trying to hold back my rage. She would never leave us for him.

"Yes, love, she left all of us for him, but more so, to feed the dark magic that was beginning to grow inside her. The Drygen family has always been able to be kept under control because we could limit the magic they had access to. However, your mother was always so strong that I knew my binding was not going to last forever.

Forgive me for not telling you, until now, but I had to make sure you were safe. I have kept many things from you that I have always felt guilty about. Still, all my decisions have been to, first, keep both of you girls safe and, second, to honor my promise. Now, they have warned me that I will not be able to do this alone. I will need you, child. You will be the one to save the magic and keep it pure, Gram said with hope in her voice. Look inside the chest again when you're ready to give your answer.

A crash sounded from the living room.

My grandmother scowled. I should find out what is going on with those two. She patted my hand gently, one last time, and kissed me on the cheek. I will leave you to decide for yourself. We've more to talk about, but it can wait.

Walking through the white door, she left me alone in her room with the silver chest and a mind full of thoughts.

I can't do this, I thought painfully. "Eliza is my mother. Why would my