Part Two: Be Careful What You Wish For.


Ava woke early before the birds even started there chatter, and quietly moved through the house unsure about the eerie silence. Her eyes still painful and a little blurry, and her head ached like someone hit her repeatedly with a crowbar. The gash on her arm was already scabbing over a little, so that was a plus, even though it to stung whenever the skin stretched. In the kitchen Ava found a little note from Ida that simply read, this may help, accompanied with a couple white pills. Pouring herself some water from the pitcher into the glass left on the table for her, she swallowed them without a second thought, trusting her. The gesture didn’t go unnoticed, she liked the feeling of having a family, and someone other than Michael that loved her. Finishing the entire glass of water surprised how dehydrated she felt. Grabbing some fruit she froze, the pressure in her head suddenly started to build. Within the time it took Ava to drop her orange, she saw a car wreck turn into a pile up, a women killing her neighbor over a parking spot, and a severe fire claiming the life of a child. If that wasn’t enough before Ava could catch her breath, she witnessed two births, a drive by, and three happy weddings. Where one of them ended shortly after the I do’s, because the bride slept with the best man before the ceremony. The kicker was the groom and maid of honor where secretly in love with each other, and neither ever spoke of it She saw a close call with an elderly man falling down an escalator, and was so engulfed in what she was seeing, she even cheered when she watched a small boy hit his first baseball without the tee stand for help.
Ava, Michael called her name when he entered the kitchen, you okay Love. Startled Ava took a step back, stepped on the orange she dropped earlier and almost fell. Michael reached out and grabbed her, getting a slight shock when she looked at him. Her eyes were no longer that warm brown he’s become custom too, they were completely white and bloodshot. He wasn’t going to say anything, he'd take his Ava any way he could, no matter what she looks and sounds like.
Ava instantly aroused by Michael’s touch, was overcome by lust, and kissed him making her intentions clear while trying to undo his pants. Michael kissed Ava deep holding her close, trying to express how much she means to him, when she growled and froze in his hands. What’s the matter he asked hesitant, thinking he missed some signal? We need to hurry up she finally said to him, your grandmother is waiting for you in the back, annoyed about something. Peeling herself reluctantly away from his embrace heading towards the stairs, knowing he wouldn't leave her unless she was the one to pull away first, proceeded to say that dinner will be there in two hours, and pointed towards the tree line out the window. Michael just stared at Ava in awe, she was so beautiful he could listen to her talk all day, her voice intoxicating like a siren call you can't shake . Her body with all the right curves, breasts always perky saying hello, an ass with just enough cushion to absorb his power. Those thighs and hips complimenting his grasp giving him the leverage to hold her close.  Not to mention those lips. Both sets send his loins a blaze, what he wouldn't give to consume her until he couldn't nut anymore. You will need grans gun to kill it her lips mouthed, this of course peaked his interest taking him out of his naughty thoughts.
She abruptly turned to Michael grabbing his arm which made him tense and listen. She spoke in that echoed voice, the Regent Warrior Brian will meet his equal, he’s close, seems to be watching waiting. Michael couldn't believe how quickly she converted back when she was unable to see any more, unaware she said anything at all. Still reeling from the fact she just saw his father, where ever he was now, when she changed topics and said, Warrior please get going, gran is getting impatient.
Once he left after another deep kiss, Ava spent the day in her house, wondering around following all the mysteries yet to uncover. Surprised there were any secrets left, it was like her house never shut up. Room after room, she would watch as furniture would shimmer and change colors, nothing she really wanted to see of course. Most of the furniture was original to the house, so it didn’t change too much, but the things on or around the rooms would. Her favorite find so far, was a photo album in the library, hidden in a secret side panel in the bookcase. It had faces and names along with dates and bio information. Now when she saw a face, or vision of someone, she could show Michael so he didn’t feel left out. She liked she could see things, she could watch people move and go about their day, and get a feel of who these people were. She just didn’t like the fact that she couldn’t choose what or who she sees. It was even getting harder to know what was real and what was not, thanks to her cursed conversion. Entering another bedroom Ava watched a captivating woman sitting at the vanity, holding a mirror looking at her reflection, and just as quickly as she came she was gone. Ava picked up the hand mirror off the small vanity and held it up to her face. She saw the woman looking back at her and smiled, this woman is beautiful, dark brown hair, brown eyes, with the most amazing smile that said hi there. Ava smiled back until she was gone and set the mirror down. She walked over to the album and flipped through the pages until she found the woman’s picture and read the name underneath it.
Sarah Lee Miller-Nostradam
MOM, Ava was so overjoyed she got a glimpse of her, she wanted to celebrate and tell Michael. Delighted about putting names to faces, in every room she learned a new one, anticipating meeting Michael’s mother. After a while thou, the excitement wore off as she entered another bedroom. She began to realize every one of these people were lost to her, she couldn’t touch or talk to any of them. How could she tell Michael, if he wouldn’t benefit from these so called gifts? More like curses she thought, these shadows left behind are the only evidence that they existed at all, and she’s the only one who could see them. No one would believe her, they’d think her crazy. No wonder her family secluded themselves, because in all honesty where’s the proof. Setting the album down Ava exited the room feeling alone and vulnerable. Yes she gets the luxury of seeing her deceased relatives from time to time, but she would never get to truly know them. Being so close, unable to grasp them made the grief that much harder to push down.
Ava started to twist the necklace she always wore absentmindedly, the one Michael gave her, as she walked down the hallway. She didn’t get more than a couple steps when it transformed into the garden before her eyes. She could see a barrel of a shot gun sticking out of the rose bushes, pointed right at her, and watched as the gun went off making her jump in surprise. In the second it took the bullet to pass threw her body and hit the stag a few feet away, feeling the entire thing from the stag’s point of view, brought tears to her eyes. So when Michael yelled in jubilation, and leap out of the bushes beside her and did a little victory dance. Ava tried to hug him for support, and almost did a face plant into the wall, as the hallway came into view, embarrassed.
Regrouping Ava walked outside onto the front porch clapping, as Michael strutted by dragging the stag to the side of the house, holding grans gun over his shoulder. Wow, instantly Ava was aroused watching him all strong and sweaty, who knew watching your man hunt would be so yummy. Ava almost began to sulk when Michael disappeared out of view, but her great granddad decided that was the moment to appear to her. He paced the porch, puffing on a joint, like he was joining her in the wait. He had a large gait to his walk and kind eyes, with thin wired glasses. His slacks were rolled up a little, barefoot, collar of his white shirt unbuttoned. She liked he looked casual, like he should be taking a lunch break from the office, this made her laugh aloud, because in a way he was, Seer Business .
Michael came up on the porch, returning Ava to the present. He handed gran her gun, walked over to Ava and gave her a quick kiss. She saw he was covered in blood and began to panic, but the smile on his face contradicted the massacre look he was sporting. He seemed alright, emitting joy which was contagious. He was talking to gran about a ten pointer, whatever that means, I never had to gut one before so that was a lesson in itself he continued, catching Ava up on the conversation. When he said I'm keeping the head for my trophy room, she knew he was saying it just in case anyone was going to argue.
Ida smiled caring less if he kept the whole thing, and said simply shower. Michael nodded and went to get cleaned up, giving Ava a little wink on his way in. Ida turned on Ava when he was out of ear shot and said, don't cheer him on so much. You'll inflate his ego so big he won't be able to hold up his own head. You always want him proving himself, you don't want him weak and conceited. Ava waited for Ida to finish and said, really even thou he just killed a deer with one bullet, I'd say that is impressive. Ida cut Ava off with a hand wave and said, besides he has more training to do. Ava shook her head and said who do you think you are fooling, I saw your pride? Ida just smiled and rocked in her chair, like Ava didn’t say anything, humming that same tune. Deciding there was no point to argue with sound advice, and got up to join her man in the shower, already secretly soaked needing his tool for insertion. 

Once again the tires hit the pavement, nothing but the open road, and the sound of the bikes motor singing to Brain as he opened up the throttle, and left everything he loved behind. He hated leaving Michael and Ava alone to fend for themselves, but he took comfort in knowing he himself trained Michael, for this exact scenario. He took pride in his son’s accomplishment, making this one of those times in his life were the student surpassed the teacher.
The warm New England air felt good on his face as he raced out of the region. He knew he couldn't stop because the urge to turn back to his only son was too tempting. He knew leaving this time without them would hopefully help them in the end. He always told Michael to have a plan B and he meant it, so he left behind a trigger, just in case. There were so many things the kids needed to know, but at least Brian could take solace in knowing he could leave them updates, if he did everything right. The only down side was Michael couldn't safely contact him without tipping there hand to Emma. He had to go at this blind and have faith in Ava that she could figure out what he’s done. His objective now, was find out how powerful Emma is and what type of threat she is to the bloodline. He had spent his whole life dedicated to Ava's family and now that family was threatening to destroy the only one he had left. Brain knew what he had to do, and it was balancing that line that was going to be tricky. How does he protect all he loves without breaking his honor and oath?
Squeezing the throttle not wanting to tempt himself from turning around. He knowingly headed towards the reason for all his grief, it seemed every event that has ever plagued his family comes back to Emma. How is he supposed to protect a woman he is bound too, when he suspected her of killing his wife. Brain thought maybe once he talks to Emma, he could make her see she has a family, and be strong enough to change her course to destroy it. He could feel the pull faintly, not like with him and Charles, but it was there. Brain spent the ride in a battle with himself, but the further he got away from the kids, the stronger the pull got to Emma. So Brain decided to go all in, but vowed he would die before he hurt anyone he loved.
Deciding to pull off and get a quick bite, needing to process all he had learned, so he could better approach his new Seer. He knew she was a planner, and risk taker, but he didn't truly know to what extent. He decided to try to watch her for a while, when he finally located her, test her gifts and find out what she's up too. Charles was relying on him, even thou he’s been dead thirteen years, he could still feel the weight of his oath to his best friend. Guilt and the unknown plagued him greatly, he has never been away from the children without a definite return time. It left him feeling this aching void, like he was letting them down. Exhausted and feeling stuck to his bike, in need of a good stretch as the sun was threatening to rise soon. Pulling into a shit hole motel, he encountered a large man sitting behind the check in desk, getting a blow job as payment. He didn't even blink an eye as Brian approached and requested a room, already producing a c-note to move the transaction along. As he entered his room the cockroaches scattered, showcasing a room not fit for human or animal use. Laying the supposed clean towel on the floor to try to get some real sleep, after realizing he wouldn't be washing up before his introduction, thanks to the assumed blood stain ring around the tub.
The sun was an assault to Brains eyes as it seeped into his room through the blinds, a couple of hours later. Groaning in response to his body’s complaint about the bike ride, realizing he’s been spoiled by the Jeep Gladiator all these years. Putting on a clean shirt and boxer briefs, he wiped down the room removing all traces of himself with the towel, and checked out. Today seemed to be different, like he could almost sense Emma. He got on his bike and rode slow, turning only when it felt right. He pulled into a crowded city, not looking at the signs or anything, just in case Ava might be able to see. He needed to know his kids were safe at home and that meant keeping Ava in the dark as much as possible.
A tug at his being let him know his equal was near, like he passed right by her. Turning around he drove until he felt the pull tug him the other way again, and parked the bike. He walked over to a news stand and grabbed a random magazine. The city was buzzing, people yelling, horns honking, but one noise stuck out to him. It was the clicking sound of high heeled shoes on pavement, getting louder as she walked towards him. Brain peeked a glance over his magazine and saw the source. He knew her immediately, she had Charles hair color and cheek bones. They were the same height and slender body structure. He glanced back at the magazine as she walked past, trying to seem disinterested. As Brain set the magazine back on the stand, Emma walked right up to him invading his personal space. Little shocked at her closeness, said hi, I'm Brain Wakefield. He watched as Emma’s eyes glazed over for only a second, then she turned and kept walking.
Brain observed her closely and noticed she seemed to be looking for someone, because every once in a while, she would invade someone’s space than keep going. Guys, girls, old or young, she didn't seem to know what she was looking for. Eventually, she walked into an Inn, climbed the stairs and disappeared. Brain didn't follow and counted two bodyguards lagging behind, they weren't very good at there job. He would wait the introductions for now, he knew where she was getting use to the growing pull to his bond, after a decade of silence. Deciding his best course of action right now is to get a room and order some food. He was starving only eating breakfast on the way to his motel hours ago, so the small delicatessen next door was convenient.
While waiting for his food to arrive at his new cleaner room at the same inn Emma resided, Brain thought this would be a good time to leave a message for the kids. He walked into the dark bathroom, took out his blade and cut his finger. Squeezing the blood out letting it drip into the sink, Brian took a cleansing breathe and called out to Ava in the mirror. Ava he said, I hope you see this, Emma is unstable. I have made contact. The second she walked past me, she spun around and stood right in front of me. I introduced myself and watched her eyes glaze over for only a second, but I don't think her sight is strong at all. She seems desperate to find something. I'm going to continue to follow her closely and keep her safe for now. Maybe she will be drawn back to me enough times to realize she needs me. Please tell Michael I love him.
Brain washed away the blood, his link to Michael, knowing his seer would sense it, and stepped out of the bathroom relieved he could help the kids anyway he can. He sat on the bed and wondered how Ava’s change went, and if Michael dealt with it okay. Brain once again got pulled into his grief for having to leave his son again, and hated how history kept repeating itself by pulling them apart. He thought of Ava and how much Michael loved her. He already thought of her as his daughter, and wondered if Charles would be right about them getting married. He caught himself thinking how much his wife Vivienne would of loved to see them together, and he hoped he was honoring Charles by the way he was trying to protect his little girl. Whatever Brain was feeling, got lost when a pull from his bond brought him to the door. On instinct, he thought of Charles and was sadly disappointed when Emma stood there.
Brain stepped back, opened the door wide as a gesture to invite her in. He left the door open, walked over to the tiny table and sat in a chair. He gestured with his hand for her to follow. A moment passed before Emma accepted and sat down facing him. They sized each other up for some time in silence, until the delivery guy appeared at the door with his sandwich. Brain paid the man and left the door open, leaving Emma free to leave at any time. He placed the box on the table and began to eat half, after gesturing for her to join him. She didn’t move or acknowledge his offering, so Brian decided to just eat and wait her out. She approached him after all, so protocol states she was going to have to speak first.
After he finished his meal, he noticed Emma grin at him before she finally began to speak. Her voice soft and angelic, but he could hear an undertone of strength like she was trying to conceal it. Funny how her first words were a question, he was use to this by now with Ava, so he smiled as she spoke. I already know your name, what I want to know is why am I drawn to you? I didn't realize I was outside your door she continued, until you opened it. As an afterthought she said, I'm so sorry to bombard you without introducing myself, my name is Emma Lee Nostradam. Brain smiled and nodded and replied, I know. This of course took Emma by surprise. How, she asked a little more demanding than intended? Brain waited, and stared at her and figured he'd try his luck and tell her his story, just as he had done with Ava, but with less personal information. My name as you know is Brain Wakefield, I am/was Warrior and best friend to my Seer Charles Nostradam. Emma jumped to her feet and said in a most awful voice, you lie, there are no others left with my name.
Brain waited for her to act, and was drawn to her words, like she knew for a fact there were no others. When she finally calmed and took her seat Brain continued, Charles was my Seer, and your twin brother. Brain watched her, to see if she was going to say anything or show any sign she knew this, but all she said was continue. Brain told her that her parents were dead, getting no reaction from her, no questions, no shock, so he kept talking. Charles and his family were murdered Brain said softly, but at this Brain watched the corner of her mouth turn up into a smile. He was not liking this at all, and knew something was horribly wrong. How could someone be happy about her family being wiped out? Emma interrupted his thoughts and asked, where is he buried? Brain was not giving her this information and decided to flip roles. He said enough about the past and asked, why don't you tell me something about yourself? He watched her get angry and could read it all over her face, she obviously is one who likes to control things. He felt a flutter of danger that made the hair stand up on the back of his neck, as warning. He knew at that moment, that he couldn’t trust her, he could see in her body language that she wasn't above using violence to get what she wanted.
So Brain sat there and took another chip, popping it in his mouth and waited for her to make her move against him. As he pretended to ignore her and concentrated on his drink, he watched her body language change.Trying to compose herself and choose her next words wisely, she finally asked, what do you want answered? How much of your family history do you know, Brain asked her calmly? Emma gave that same cruel smile and said, they are history. He hated her, his body tingled with rage, but he had to stay close to her, for now. He had a feeling she knew more than she was letting on, and he wanted to hear her admit it. So he followed up by asking, what are you looking for, if all your family is dead? Brain watched her eyes flash in anger again before she said, who said I was looking for anything. Brain knew after only two questions his assumptions were wrong before. There was no way he was going to tell her about Ava, he knew Emma was calculating, patient and cruel and she would eventually stumble across something. So even thou he hated her, he was going to stay close no matter what, and keep Emma away from her only remaining kin. How much can you see, he asked her when she calmed down again? She replied sweetly, I don't know what you’re talking about.
Brain having enough of the games stood up, walked over to the open door, choosing his words wisely said, I will not protect a Seer who would lie to me, now please leave. Emma did not move, but just sat there and leered at him processing his words, and he was thankful for his cunning delivery, making it seem like he was here for her. Maybe she would open up and tell him what he already suspected. After a moment she gave in and said I can't see anything, I can only sense shadows of people and places. Brain felt the truth in her words, so he nodded and walked back over to the table but did not sit down. Emma smiled like she won something and said sweetly, so you’re my Warrior now. He could tell she liked this idea, so Brain played along and said yes, we are bonded you and I, that's how I found you. Emma smiled that cruel grin and said, I was wondering about that, so what does this bond entail? Well Brain said, I am obligated to follow and protect you, but there are some rules you'll need to know before our bond can be solidified.
Emma stood wrapping her arms around his neck and said sweetly, are you going to tell me or keep me in suspense, because I adore a good game of cat and mouse. One Brain spoke, I am your Warrior not your lover, grabbing her hands from around his neck wanting to break them and beat on her. Instead bringing them to his lips, as a sign of kindness and released her without incident. Emma stared at Brain but stayed silent probably enjoying herself, so he continued. Two, I will protect you with my life, in return YOU cannot knowingly put me in harm’s way. That means mentally or physically Brian clarified. Emma didn't like the rule, Brain watched her eyes squint and her mouth pull into a scowl. Three he continued in his strong but neutral voice, if I'm going to protect you, you must tell me everything, so I can know and trust you in return. Emma didn't like this either and said, what if I don't agree? That's simple Brain said, I am free to go. Brain knew this was a small lie, he would have to protect her no matter what, but he was not going to tell her that, he was regent he had no choice. He ended his rules with, I leave this choice in your hands, hoping he gave her enough to satisfy her questions. Emma stepped closer to Brain and whispered, I'm leaving tomorrow lover boy you can follow if you want, and I'll decide what information I will tell you. Then Brain said, you know my terms and I yours, I'll see you in the morning.
Brain waking early followed his pull down a block towards his bike. He saw Emma sitting outside at a cafe eating breakfast, so he pulled the chair out across from her and took a seat. After the waiter took his order, he stealthily scrutinized Emma hoping to learn something, but she stayed silent and continued to eat a lot for someone so small. She made it an art form the way she never ate the same food twice, unless she was mixing it with something else. Working the staff like dogs, as plate after plate appeared. Just as quickly she would take a hearty bite of each item and sent the plate away, with one exception, she seemed to love apple slices with peanut butter, and egg? The waiter brought his food and they ate in silence, fully aware of the two men wearing all black sitting next to them. After Brain finished and paid the obscene tab, Emma dictated I am going to New York. She continued by saying these, and pointing to the two men at the next table, are my escorts. Brain acknowledged the men and nodded. I do not know how I feel about you yet Warrior, but I'm sure I can find a use for you. Brain just nodded in response, feeling that tingle that told him he wouldn’t like what she had in store for him. Emma smiled and got up walking over to an all-black car with tinted windows parked on the curb, and said I'm sure you can keep up and got in. Brain crossed the street and mounted his bike, thinking he got lucky when they pulled over for fuel, before they hit the highway. Brain drove behind her car, leaving some distance between them, having no idea what she was up to. He had no choice but to follow blindly, and hopefully be able to inform the kids the minute he knew anything.
Emma sat in silence in the back of the cars for hours without a word to her escorts, making them antsy. She was unaware nor cared about their feelings, having some delicious thoughts of her own. Trying to plan out a four way for dinner, really needing some serious attention, and some exercise. Maybe five, she thought if Brian will be willing, getting to test the merchandise before she studs him.
By lunch they pulled into a diner with a gas station, and fueled up before they went inside to eat. As there food was being delivered, one of the henchmen asked, when can we have a little fun. Emma grinned and said soon, be patient, good things come to those who wait. The man kept talking, not taking her subtle hint to shut up. Come on blowing up that stupid ball was fun, laughing with his dim witted counterpart. Emma rose and backhanded the man across the face with a fist full of metal rings and said, did I ask you to speak. Brain sat still, plastered a smile on his face like he enjoyed the show, but inside he was furious. Emma seeing the smile on Brains face returned it with a cruel one of her own, and sat back down enjoying his response to her violence. She told her henchmen, yawl wait in the car, I’ve had enough of your childish whining. When they left, giving Brian an envious look on their way out like they wanted to try their luck at hurting him. Emma continued to smile at Brian and said, so I see you enjoy violence, I wasn't expecting that. Brain didn't answer letting her make her assumptions. Well she said, I don't quite nowhere I need to go, but I know I'm close. How, Brain spoke, if we don't know what we are supposed to find? Emma laughed and said, I'm waiting on an old friend to drop in any minute. I know I'm supposed to be here, now we just need to wait for his arrival.
Emma ordered another sodi-pop and sipped it slow, having nothing else to say. Brain could hear her southern accent coming through whenever she talked, even thou she hid it well. When she was done she rose, turned and left leaving Brain with the tab, or she just wasn't going to pay. Either way he found her lacking, with her wealth you’d think she’d be generous. When Brain returned outside, he noticed Emma holding a big black bird on her arm, and she seem to be petting it. Walking up to her she said, isn't he beautiful as she stroked its long feathers. She turned to Brain and said meet our scout, he goes everywhere I've been when we are in the area, and has a look around for me. He has some news, now I just have to wait and see if it's what I'm looking for. Emma let the bird fly away heading east, after having a whispered conversation with the beast. She looked at Brain and said, follow our scout, when he comes back to me I know I'm close. Brain prayed he could leave the kids a message before nightfall, just in case it takes Ava awhile to learn her new gifts and see it. He had a strong idea where that bird was going and he didn't like it one bit.
Emma grabbed Brains arm when he turned to mount his bike and said, I'm going to ride with you. As they pulled away from the gas station, Emma squeezed Brain around the chest and whispered "Boom" in his ear. Simultaneously a deafening explosion shook the world around him. It caught Brain off guard tightening his grip feeling the bike wobble for a moment, unable to hear anything but a profound ringing in his head.  Emma was laughing in her high pitched creepy way, he only knew that because she was shaking with delight. Cranking that throttle Brain glanced in the mirror, not daring to look back. Emma’s car was an upside down flaming piece of metal, teetering over the edge of the cliff, and a single bouncing tire hauling ass. He sped off not going back, his ears still ringing. Brian couldn't believe how little loyalty meant to her, how easily she could kill. She was pure evil, a self-centered piece of work, she must have been planning that for a while. He wanted very much to drive her off a cliff, but figured he needed to get the kids there answers first, and check the bike for future tampering. Not thinking she’d blow herself up, unless she’s that deranged, considering she was driving in a car that was strapped to explode. Catching her unremorseful malevolent snarl, glaring back at him in the mirror, he knew she had to die. Could he break his blood oath, betray his ancestors. 

Things started to slow down for Ava as the days went by, the urgency of her change to become master of this house was over. She survived, and the house got quiet as if waiting for something to happen. She walked in her garden being assaulted by all the aromas, at first she hated it, but now that she was starting to understand things, she sort of liked it. She could smell the changes the flowers made as they opened, bloomed and died away. Just as she knew when the apples were ready for picking. She felt more one with things as she walked around the estate. Turning a corner in the garden, she saw a woman on her knees cutting roses off the bush. Ava noticed she kind of looked like her Michael and got closer saying hello, to get a better look at her. She realized she'd seen her photo in the album and she wasn’t real, this was Vivienne, Michael’s mother. She was very pretty, long reddish brown hair, very thin and tall. Ava was so close to her and entranced, wanting to analyze and remember every inch of her face, that when she started screaming showing her the day she died, Ava dropped the connection right away terrified. Stuck with the horrifying image of Mrs. Wakefield last moment, as it imprints on her soul.
Walking away Ava tried clearing her mind of that horror, by quickly viewing the different versions of things around the estate that presented itself to her. She liked to see change and the little touches to improve things over the years, but liked it best when things were left exactly the same. She thought of the cities she drove through to get here, and felt sad for all the people who no longer live in their family homes, glad Brain and Ida kept hers safe for her. As she continued around the side of the Manor she saw a tire swing attached to a very large maple tree. She remembered someone saying something about this swing. She couldn't place the conversation about it as she walked over to it and pulled the rope. It seemed sturdy enough, Michael usual insists on checking these things before she goes on it.
Pulling herself up, Ava climbed on top of the tire and sat down straddling the rope. She started to swing, gathering momentum. Smiling letting the little breeze she was creating blow out her long brown hair behind her, almost dragging it in the grass. Hearing a motor of a vehicle approach, Ava looked for Michael. She was curious to see what kind of toy he was playing with now, and watched an old silver car come into view. It pulled right up to the front of the manor and stopped. A man got out to far away to identify, alarming Ava of an intruder. On further inspection the man curiously looked like her Michael. He looked a little older than her and he was in good shape. Ava watched him open the back door and two small kids popped out. They ran towards her innocently laughing, dark stains on their shirts. Don't leave the garden, Ava heard and recognized the voice immediately, it was Brain. O-no Ava said and took the biggest breathe she could, exhaled and screamed STOP, PLEASE STOP.
Ava kept her eyes closed, she remembered this swing now. This was the day her parents died. Brain told her they were playing here when he found her parents. Ava just held tight to the rope, shaking her head saying no, no, no. She heard Michael before he got to her. She could sense him, it helped that he always smelled good. Michael reached her, supported her back and lifted her off the swing. What’s the matter, what happen are you hurt he asked? No, Ava whispered I'm stuck. What do you mean stuck, you’re in my arms. No, Ava explained, I'm stuck in the past with your father and us. He strained to hear the last part of her explanation because she was whispering it, the day our family died. Michael hugged Ava and sat down putting her on his lap, leaning under the tree. Alright he said calmly, are you sure your stuck, open your eyes and take a look, if you’re right than I'm with you in both places, and your safe. Ava opened her eyes and right next to her was herself, weird. She wondered how she could see a younger version of herself, and remembered she already knew she was here, making this a kind of confirmation that Brian spoke the truth, even thou she didn’t need nor want it.
Returning the smile she was seeing on her younger self’s face, as she picked a flower growing at the base of the tree. The younger Michael stalked up behind her, and put gum right in her hair, laughing. The little Ava didn't cry, she just curled her legs under herself. The little Michael once laughing, changed from amused to worry in a split second. Present Ava said out loud to Michael, you just put gum in my hair and man do you look sorry. I regretted it immediately Michael whispered in her ear, keep watching you'll forgive me. Ava laughed and watched the little Michael sit down beside her and say in the sweetest most pathetic voice, "I'm sorry Ava". The little Ava replied, mom be mad. Ava watched her little brown eyes go blank, but for only a second before she stood up grabbed young Michael’s hand, and said UH- OH. Ava wanted to grab them and tell them everything would be alright, but she couldn’t. The little Michael held her younger self’s hand tight and stared towards the Manor alongside her. This gave Ava some comfort knowing he believed her even then, before they knew anything.
Ava was prepared this time, as Brain came out of the house looking everywhere, ran up to the kids and picked them up one in each arm and ran them to the car. Ava described every detail to Michael as the car drove away, and blinked as the past dissolved. Ava thought she was done until another started to take form. She thought she was mistaken, until Ida pulled up in her cart with what looked like the same donkey she has now. Ida started putting bags on the front porch and yelled, you boys going to make me do all the work. After placing the last bag on the steps, Ida turned when she heard aloud motor. Brain was barreling full throttle towards the house, got close to his mother and dumped the bike landing on his feet right in front of her. Before she could speak Brain had lifted her up and set her on the cart. Talking fast he said, Mother everyone is dead, the kids are in the barn, please go stay with them, I need to search the estate for Charles. Ava could see Brains pain written all over his face, he was putting up a good front as he hit the donkey in the ass. Ida did as her son asked, crying while the donkey pulled her away. She didn’t need to see her family’s bodies to know her Brian was telling her the truth, his distraught face spoke volumes.
Brain stood facing the manor for a long time before Ava watched the scene fade.
She waited for more but none came and turned to Michael, his face was stricken like he saw everything just from her words. They stared at each other until Ava said softly, I'm sorry I was scared, I already heard there death I didn't want to see it too. Michael Stood up taking Ava with him saying, it's in the past. He tried changing the subject by saying, I've been fixing up the place and getting it ready for winter.
Ava wanted to apologize for dredging up the past, but decided not to and let him distract her. He has already started running the grounds twice a day and cutting down trees and filling holes in the yard to avoid her crazy. Along with moving and raking leaves, which Ava thought was a lost cause with all the trees, anything to keep from spending time with her. He carried her to the Manor and through the door into the kitchen, probably finding her helpless Ava thought to herself. Ida was sitting at the table peeling and cutting apples, when Michael set Ava down and said you want a sandwich, I'm making one. Sure she replied not really hungry after all that, adding with dill relish please, so she was believable. Ida jumped in and said I'll take some tea, and turned to Ava and asked, why where you screaming dearest. A little embarrassed said, Gran I'm sorry but I saw the day Brain found my parents dead. Ida nodded sympathetically and said, very sad and troubling times. Ava continued like she didn’t reply, and said I saw you pull up with your cart, and is that the same donkey. Ida laughed and said yes, she's an old girl.
Michael brought lunch to the table and Ida’s tea, he inhaled his sandwich, got up kissed both ladies and said, I'm going on an early run I'll be back soon. Ava was getting frustrated with Michael always moving, but decided to let it go. Smiling at Ida to hide her feelings, and ate her lunch. Ida just hummed a song only she knew and continued to peel apples. Ava began to not feel well, only being able to eat half her lunch, and got up and cleaned her plate and washed her hands. She grabbed the knife on the table and began cutting while Ida peeled, not wanting to be alone yet, after what she just went through. So she put her cut apples in the pot and picked up another one.
As she applied pressure to the knife to slice the apple in half, she was yanked hard to Michael. He was running, had a nice long stride going and sweat beaded up on his shoulders and arms. She was getting a little turned on, when Michael suddenly fell out of sight. Ava gasped and tried to find him, the darkening sky not helping matters, she felt scared and panic started to take over. Calm down dearest your bleeding she heard as the kitchen came back into view. Ida was wrapping her hand in a dish towel tightly. I lost Michael Ava said, he was running and just fell away. Ida looked at Ava in the eyes and said calm your soul, take a breath and stay still so I can wrap your hand temporarily for now, it's pretty deep. Ava waited a second, took a couple of calming breathes and silently called out to Michael, begging he’d be alright. Nothing, Ava was on the verge of running outside and finding him when a flash of anger pulled her back to him. She couldn’t see him at first and began to worry until she saw him pulling himself out of a hole in the ground. He's alright Ava said thrilled until she really saw him, he seems determined and coming in our direction Ava warned.
Ida continued to hum and Ava sat still waiting on Michael. He entered the kitchen, through the back door and pointed at his granny when he entered. You didn't think I would want to know about a giant hole in the ground? Ida replied simply, it is not a hole but a crypt, knowing that was the only hole on the estate big enough for him to fall in. Since this estate was built, that crypt has been there, Ida continued. Your original ancestor on these lands so I'm told, never liked the idea of a graveyard on the property, because it would be an eye sore. So they had that crypt dug and built, so the family could stay after death, but not be a nuisance to those who remained. Michael snorted, why didn't you tell me? I figured you would find it on your own, or eventually ask were your parents were laid to rest, Ida interjected.
Ava again cursed herself for never even thinking about that and said, so my parents are there. Ida said, yes they were cremated, all of them were, my Brain did it himself. What Michael said out loud? Then he saw Ava's hand, what happened are you okay, it's bleeding through, is it bad, causing Ida to stand up and leave the room. She returned with a medical kit, unwrapped Ava's hand and saw she did indeed almost cut her thumb off. Ida cleaned the wound and wrapped her thumb in ice. We need to get it nice and numb, so I can stitch it. Michael was upset and pacing, feeling himself shaking at the sight of her blood. I can't believe you two are so careless, Ava trying to cut her hand off the minute I turn my back and Gran keeping secrets. Michael was at his limit and was building to explode when Ida stood up right in front of him and said, I am not keeping secrets. I have answered every question you both have asked me, I will never lie to you and I will not keep secrets. If you ask, I will answer, now sit down and I'll do some talking while I stitch up our Supreme's hand.
Once Michael sat down and Ida was satisfied he wasn’t going to hurt anyone, she began to talk. So I'll start this little sad tale where Ava left off, that morning I was in the kitchen with Sarah and Vivienne. We were making some pies for the local churches. We didn't really attend services, but your moms were big into charity work. They would donate anonymously, along with other needs like clothes and medicine. They supported all the religions, under the impression that they all strive to achieve the same goals, even if they went different routes to get there. Funny those two put stereotypes through the paces, shopped their asses off, but never kept a single item that wasn't necessity. Anyway your father Charles entered the kitchen and said get the children ready, Brain is taking them to get ice cream and have an adventure, and not to argue because they have been cooped up long enough. It was odd you see, Charles was not the type to give orders. He was more of the suggest type, with the occasional serious tone.We of course just shrugged it off, you never knew what his day was really like, so u just had to assume it was lingering effects from his gifts. As soon as Brain left that morning your father began tearing apart your rooms. Your mothers were under the assumption your rooms were being remodeled as a surprise. By lunch he had your whole rooms taken apart and painted in plain colors, making them look like every other room in the Manor. He put in bigger beds and cleared out all your toys and things, and brought them down to the old barn. When he returned with my cart, he asked me to go to town for our supplies and to make sure to get my hair done. When I returned late that afternoon, I set the groceries on the porch and yelled for the boys. I thought it was weird when no one came out to help me. The girls were always doing some kind of project, finding some new ways to tease and arouse the boys, so they said. Then I heard a motor. It was my Brain barreling up the yard on his bike. He just grabbed me, told me everyone was dead and to go sit with you kids. I did what he asked. He didn't know if danger was still around, so he needed me safe, and to make sure you kids had someone you knew with you.
I found you two sleeping in the backseat of the car, under a huge canvas. I pulled my wagon in and waited for Brain to come back. I'm no Seer, I was afraid, not for myself but for you kids, having lost so much I needed to protect you. So I looked around and I found a couple of knives, but I'm no Warrior either. I was married to one once and James showed me how to shoot, so I was relieved when I found buried in the back of a cabinet one of my husband’s old guns and a box of bullets. I sat in a broken wooden chair and faced the door. If anyone was going to come in and tried to hurt you kids, I was at least going to take out as many with me as I could.
I waited all night with you, and early that next morning I heard Brains bike approach. He pulled into the barn and I could see blood and dirt all over him, he smelled like ash and smoke, and a hint of lemon. His face told me a lot, he looked like he had just walked through hell. He sat on the work bench, hung his head and began crying. This was the only time your father had ever cried, even as a baby. Broke my fucken heart she said, swearing for the first time, followed up by saying pardon me. He told me after I left, he went back inside. He searched the house and found Charles. He told me he went to their cave, where they hid the camera system for answers. Ouch Ava said, pulling her hand away, that hurt.
Ida apologized and put more ice on Ava’s hand and kept talking like there was no interruption. He told me everything he saw, describing how men tied up your mothers and beat them on the couch in the sitting room. He said a small man in a hood came into the room and began to torture them. He didn't give me too many details which I'm thankful for, but it wasn’t pleasant. He was wretched and powerless as they repeatedly struck them asking where the master of this house is. Which he found odd because normally people say owner, not master. I swear if those men where still around, I think your dad would've dragged them all to hell with him that day. If you could've seen just how messed up he was. His whole body was pulsing like a jack hammer, yet the grief  radiating off him liquefied my organs leaving me a hollow mess, with nothing but the echo of my sons desperation. Michael could tell Ava had to witness it all, gran her trigger to the past. Her haunting words the rhythmic drum guiding her towards devastation. Gran, Michael said discretely nodding towards Ava's stricken face.
Your mothers were so brave, they didn't say a word only crying out at the very end, Ida hurried the story along. Brain said, they went through every room of the house looking for something. He couldn't move as they kicked down the door of your fathers study. Then he told me the weirdest thing, your father took his own life. He explained how Charles last request was to hide you kids and keep you safe. I always felt in some way your father Ava, saw something that night. Why do your room over so quickly, and why did he send Brain and I away. I don't think I will ever get answers Ida said, removing the ice from Ava’s hand and sticking her with the needle again. Ava didn't feel it, so she started to stitch it closed.
Brain, Ida continued saying, made a platform in the dirt driveway, I saw the scorch marks the next morning. He picked up your mothers and laid them on the platform, trying to be strong and get through it alone. He went to your fathers study and carried him outside and laid him next to Sarah. He kissed Vivienne one last time and lit a match, I don't think he ever mourned for the love of his life. Ida got silent for a moment trying to compose herself before she said, he told me how he watched them burn, and when it got down to embers, he went inside and cleaned the Manor. He removed all evidence that a crime had taken place, scrubbed until his hands bled and than burned it all. He knew this wasn't a robbery, they took nothing. There are rules in place for a Warrior to live by and one of them is, you fight your own battles, and clean up your own messes, especially in this family. You never want the outside world in our business, just causes more problems, when we can’t explain.
Ava's hand was stitched up so she began to wrap it for her in gaze. Ida went on saying, Brain after cleaning up, came outside and picked up all the ashes. He placed them in a big box together, and brought it to me. He left when he was done telling me what happened and took you kids with him. He told me to get a nice big urn in town or something big enough, and put all their names on it. He would lay them to rest with the ancestors upon his return, in the crypt, when he came back to retrieve me. I had no intention of leaving my home, everyone I loved was dead, and if they wanted to come back and finish the job I’d be waiting. After a few days of isolation, I went to town under the pretense of buying my own urn. I picked this nice extra large decorated hand-carved box and had my sister make the plaque, so not to arise suspicion. When I received it, I attached it and took my cart out to the crypt and laid them with our ancestors. That box was very heavy, like the grief it carried, I was honored. That is all I know about what happened that night and now you know about that crypt. I'm sorry you fell, it used to be a nice place with flowers around the entrance. Your mother Vivienne was the gardener, she loved nature she could make anything grow just with her love. Anyway, I got to old, I couldn't make it down those stairs alone anymore.
Its fine, thank you for telling us that. It must have been very hard on you, to lose everyone you love all in one day, Ava said hurt, empathetic to Ida’s pain. Brain came back once in a while, Ida admitted. He never stayed long, and never told me where you were, but he did show me your school photos and told me how you were growing up. I was thrilled to hear yawl were coming home. Thirteen years was so long a time to wait, I thought I'd be dead before I got the chance to see and hold you both again.

When they finished peeling and cutting up the apples, Ida began to make a pie. Ava protested that she not use the apples with her blood on them. Ida laughed and said that's the least of my problems, besides you die we all die. Tired of trying to debate gran Ava placed the macaroni casserole in the oven, and asked Michael to take her to the crypt. He dutifully grabbed a flashlight and walked holding hands towards were he fell. As they approached Ava saw the land shift and move a little, she could see the stone marker, and all the flowers and plant life that use to be here. Now plain and forgotten, just covered in leaves, no wonder Michael didn't see it. He walked down first and noticed some of the stone steps were broken, which he didn’t the first time in the dark. He clicked on his flashlight and looked around, for what he could see in so little light. There was a stone bench in the middle of the chamber, large stone block walls lined with shelves. Dirt, leaves and cobwebs laid over everything making it look creepy. Michael went back up the stairs for Ava, saying all clear. She followed him down, and waited as he strategically placed the light on the stairs so it would light up the room. She walked over to the nearest box with her pen light, and rubbed the name tag on top. This was the box of their parents. It was a decorated urn box, very large, the details in the wood was beautiful but tarnished, and hidden by years of neglect.
Ava wrapped her arms around Michael as they amble around the crypt, taking their time, realizing it was big for a chamber underground. She noticed little carvings of trees and vines running through the stone as she examined it, and said to Michael this crypt was once a beautiful place, maybe we can bring it back to its former state. He only hugged her tighter pleased she could see the beauty, even in a place that houses so much pain for them. The light caught a metal marker on the wall, as they strolled by to leave. It read, here lies a bonded family. Under these words they saw both of their last names, side by side. Ava turned to Michael and said, we will be together even in death. I look forward to it he replied kissing her hand. Michael couldn’t say anymore, this place was just another reminder of all that was taken from them.

Time passed and Ava watched Michael day after day doing the same things for weeks, keeping himself on a routine. She watched him go on his morning run, then come home for breakfast. He would check in with the girls as he liked to call us, then go back outside until lunch, training or working on some kind of project. Today he was cutting down trees that were dead or dying again. He had removed his shirt and was chopping away with a perfect determined rhythm. After a while she had to stop watching, because every time he got physical with something she would get turned on by his power. Normally that would be a good thing, but he was too busy to do anything about it. So as disappointing as that is, as a distraction, Ava was going to finally enter her old bedroom. She has been curious of her father’s motives for stripping there childhood rooms, wishing for answers. She still refused to enter the study, still scared at what else she would see or hear in there. She just couldn't face the past, when her future was so rocky. So she prepared herself, took a deep breath and opened the bedroom door. Nothing seemed to glimmer, no shadows lurking around, so she went over and sat on the bed, kicked off her shoes and laid back. Once she was calm and had control of her breathing so not to get upset, she whispered daddy why’d you do it. Ava jumped with the sound of the door slamming open and sat up. She did it, her father was running around the room picking up everything as he passed it, stuffing it all in a couple of hemp sacks. She focused on his blurry movements and she could just hear him speaking if she strained. She could make out fragments like, I will keep you safe and my last act as your father, she will never find you, Brain knows what to do, my best friend.
Ava started getting frustrated and took a breath and said, goodbye as she exhaled and the connection dissolved. She wasn’t going to push her sight because of the consequences. Not because of the pain and blood, but because she owed it to Michael, if she got one more injury he would probably snap. Instead, Ava pondered over her father’s words in her head, and she thought she knew most of what he was saying, because of Brain and Ida's stories. Not wanting to dwell on the past right now, she thought about Michael. He had the outpost almost full of chopped wood, Ava thought he is moving pretty fast, and maybe he will find the time to be with her once he’s done. Deciding on the only option left to her, Ava set out to find Ida and prepare dinner for his next break.

Michael set the ax in the stump, pulling on his shirt feeling calm after taking his issues out on the wood pile. He knew not hearing anything about his father was good news, meant he was still alive, yet he’s been absent too long without sending some kind of message. Michael froze getting that same weird feeling in his chest when Ava needed him.
Ava found gran in her garden bedroom, staring out in the direction of her grandson. Ava knocked but she didn't answer, so she entered placing her hand on her arm. Gran, she said softly you okay. Ida stood so fast for an old lady and pointed the gun right at Ava's chest and yelled, you will not harm them. Ava was shocked staring down the barrel of the gun, holding her hands out in surrender. Unsure what happened Ava whispered, gran I love you what’s wrong? The gun began to shake as Ida yelled I’ll kill you Emma I swear it. Michael hit the barrel of the gun sideways just as it went off, shattering the glass wall beside her. Ida fell to the ground crying, sobbing and saying over and over I'm so sorry, so, so sorry, why didn’t I insist you stay.
Ava was too shocked to move just yet and stood there, trying to understand Ida’s actions and words. Michael breathing a little heavy, stood beside Ava and looked her over. He glanced up at the glass wall and back, pulling her to him asking what happened. A few minutes passed and Ava backed away from Michael, leaned down and lifted Ida off the floor, setting her in her chair. Michael picked up the gun and set it on the bed out of sight.
Ava grabbed the little garbage barrel and started picking up glass fragments off the floor. Michael loosing what little control he had yelled, are you going to tell me what’s wrong or at least what the fuck happen here. Ava continued to pick up glass and spoke, it was my fault I came in here uninvited to check on gran. I think I startled her because she threatened to shoot me in the chest. Michael's whole body shook in response to the threat remembering how close of a call that was. It took everything he had not to lay hands on his five pound gran, he was so blind w rage. Ava's calm and detached demeanor caused just enough doubt to stay his hand, besides his gran wouldn’t harm them. There needed to be an explanation, so he walked over to his gran and knelt down in front of her, and took her hand. Ida looked at him and said I hope you understand why Brain. Michael shocked said, no gran it's me Michael your grandson. He decided to keep Ida in her room for now after that, and helped Ava finish cleaning up the glass, and grabbed the gun on his way out. Michael didn't go on his nightly run, but stayed in with Ava instead. After that close call he needed her, let her body calm his soul like only she could. The way she could read your body language, giving you everything you desire, and need. She was an all consuming inferno that provoked your inner demons, daring you to push the boundaries, yet he couldn't. She was all he had if he lost control with her, he could never live with that.
Morning came and Ava watched the sun rise over the eastern sky, not sleeping a wink. Her concern for Ida was an emotion she never felt before. They were never close to anyone, so it was weird to have someone to worry for. She ran her finger up Michael's arm slowly, pleased to see him smile and say good morning love.
Ida was her usual self, had pancakes made and the table set. Michael took his seat and said, do we have any syrup and watched Ida hand him the mustard. He read about things happening like this and asked gran do you feel alright. Yes very well she said, and sat down and began to hum. Ava whispered to Michael, dementia? Michael just shrugged to let her know he’d deal with it.
After picking up, Ida went to sit on the porch. Michael handing her a cane as she walked by, knowing she thought it was her gun. He decided to pack a lunch for himself and Ava, then left a sandwich for Ida in the fridge. Walk with me today, Michael asked of Ava. I want to go clean up the family crypt, but would like you with me. Ava didn't fight him, she has been missing there alone time, no matter what they were doing.
She set up the blanket and opened a bottle of wine from the kitchen that she found this morning, and hoped it would help calm her constant episodes. She could hear Michael coming up the stairs, and looked up to see him carrying urns and set them on the ground in front of her. All he said before he disappeared back down the stairs was, please wipe them off, there are rags in my bag. Ava looked around and behind her was in fact a bag, inside the bag was cleaning rags and a spray bottle, probably cleaner and a loaded hand gun. She also found a small medical kit and some paper and pencils. Ava was careful as she took out the cleaning products. Glad for the spray top, so it didn't get in her thumb wound.
She looked up from cleaning the first urn and saw just how many there seemed to be. Michael grabbed some rags and said, I brought you some paper so you could write down the names, so we can see who is laid to rest here. Ava liked this idea and took out the paper, anything to keep busy with him. Every time she cleaned an urn, she would write the name down, and a short summery on how they died. She had a line running down the center. One side her ancestors and on the other Michael's. Except for their parent’s box urn, that had all of their names including Brian’s. Probably part of his ruse that he died, or maybe just planning ahead.
She noticed one of the urns was actually an old large mason jar with a faded paper glued to the side. She wondered who this was and what happened to not get a proper urn, unless it was some kind of joke she was missing. Again it took all Ava’s self-control not to try and use her curse to figure it out, knowing Michael was against her forcing her so called gifts to work. Finishing the last one Ava helped Michael load them back into the crypt. She noticed he cleaned the shelves off so they were debris free, and began setting them back on the shelves in order the best he could. After the final unmarked Mason jar was placed on the shelf, Ava said a silent prayer to her family. Keep the ones we love safe, until we are all together again one day.
They went up the stairs and set out lunch on the blanket, and she poured herself some more wine and shared it with Michael. She was laughing at him because he had leaves stuck in his long hair, taking a while to get them out. Ava looked up when she thought she heard something, and saw a black and grey dog with pointy ears looking at them from the tree line. Ava grabbed Michael and said, do you see that dog. Michael looked up and said, yes I see her. What do you mean her Ava asked? That’s Lobo our father’s dog, Michael replied. How do you know that, Ava asked impressed? I read it in my father’s journal, every bonded pair in our family has had a dog, always from the same bloodline. I thought Lobo was dead, Michael continued, my dad said after Charles died she never came back. He wrote, she watched him that day, she stood next to him that whole night while they burned. When the fire went out, she licked his fingers and ran away. Dad always thought she knew he was broken lone wolf now, and that it was time to say goodbye.
Ava was excited, could that mean she's come back to us, she asked Michael. He stood up and looked at the dog, she was too old, and he was surprised she was still here. Ava stood up too and saw a young pup come out of the woods, and run right up to Michael and sat down at his feet whining. Michael didn't look at the puppy, he was staring at Lobo. Ava watched as Lobo lifted her head and howled before she disappeared into the woods. Michael only stood there a moment more before he bent low and looked at the pup and said, you’re a little small to be useful. What, Ava asked concerned that he wasn’t going to keep her, she's only a puppy how can you say that? Michael grinned at her and picked up the pup and said, I'm going to call you Bo. He flashed her that sly grin, and when she smiled, gave him confirmation she agreed. On the walk home, Michael ignored Bo. He just strolled with Ava holding her hand, carrying the basket and his bag on his shoulder. Ava kept looking back at Bo as she followed behind, to make sure she was there, afraid she’d lose her. They never had a pet before, and the fear and excitement was new, didn't help this was a pretty unorthodox way of receiving one. Michael was so cool and unnerved by this responsibility, that it kind of eased her worry a little.
When they arrived back at the house, Ida was sitting on the porch asking when she spotted Michael, what is the cane for? He told her until we know what’s happening with you, all weapons will stay with him. Ida wasn't upset about his statement, in a way she agreed, they weren't babies anymore they could protect themselves. If anything she was embarrassed by what transpired the night before once he filled her in. She knew her actions were tied up in the past, but she couldn’t allow her vulnerability to upset the family she had left, when so much was still unresolved. Spotting Bo Ida said, so Lobo has returned. Michael smiled and called the puppy onto the porch. Yes gran he said, she left me Bo to raise. Ida liked this and said, it’s been to long since we've had a Guardian. Ava asked what do you mean, guardian? Ida explained, as long as I can remember there has been some type of animal on this Estate. The older generations from Louisiana had cats, but every generation that has lived on this estate has had a dog.
Ida scratched Bo’s ears with a thoughtful look on her face. A few minutes passed in silence, nature filling the void until Ida began to talk. This dog will grow, it will sense when Ava needs you. She will tell you when something is not right on this estate. Lobo must have taught her grand pup the lay of the land, and decided it was time to die, and leave behind her replacement. Ava wiped a tear from her eye and sat on the porch step and petted the puppy. Ida kept talking, Michael you need to keep this pup with you, teach her to hunt and fight. Teach her your ways, show her your soul. She will grow and learn fast, give her the tools to serve you. She will protect you at all cost when she is grown, for now you need to protect her.
Ava picked up Bo and said, let’s start dinner. Michael countered by stating he was going on a run, now that gran seemed better. Take your Guardian with you, Ida chimed in. Ava kissed Bo and placed her on the ground, and watched as she chased after Michael as he turned and ran away. They watched them run out of sight together, Michael not cutting Bo much slack by slowing down.
Ava took Ida in the house and started preparing dinner. While cutting and peeling potatoes, Ava asked Ida, why do you make him cut down trees, and run every day? Ida smiled, but didn't say anything and continued peeling. Ava crossed her arms across her chest and just stared. Ida saw Ava pouting and said, I am not making him do anything he doesn't want to do. Ava huffed and replied of course not, but all you need to do is hint about it and he'd do it, you’re his granny, he would do anything for you. Ida nodded and smiled, she knew what was going on here. She knew Ava was feeling lonely, and she knew Michael was filling his unease with movement.
Ida knew what it was like to be a mate to a Warrior, she was married thirty five years to Michael’s granddad before he died. She knew what was happening to Michael, she’s seen it before in Brian. She liked Ava thinking that Michael would do everything she wished him to do, but she was not going to disgrace her husband’s name and take credit for his doing. She wouldn't keep things from Ava. This is her house and Michael her Warrior, she had to tell Ava the story so she could keep her head straight and focused, and not stressing over Michael.
Ida put down her peeler, when she did this, Ava thought she crossed some invisible line with Ida and hurt her feelings. Ida stood up, took Ava's uninjured hand and said come with me dearest. Ava followed Ida out of the kitchen and towards the back of the house and opened her bedroom door. All you could smell was an on slaughter of flower aromas, it was nice, except for the broken window. Ida sat on the bed and turned to Ava at the door and said, really see my room, try to see what it used to look like. Ava did as she was asked, she took a deep breath and opened her eyes. Nothing, frustrated Ava tried again, still nothing. Ava placed her hand on Grans antique dresser and right away she saw a flash of a small room, with one window, a small bed, and this dresser. Then the room began to change, she saw her granddad knock down the back wall and extend the room out into the garden.
Ava blinked and looked at Ida and asked why build this room, why not take a bedroom upstairs. Ida smiled and said, James died saving your grandfather from a falling tree. The night Brain, Charles and Emma turned eighteen, your granddad Michael had got a cryptic message, telling him there was a huge storm and Emma ran off after burning her house to the ground. Well you see your granddad stopped using his gift the day he sent Emma away, never talking about her again. He thought of it as penance, because of what his gifts did to her. When he received the message, he went walking around the estate grounds like he always did, marking trees that were weak or dead, so they could be cut down the next day. He always kept logs ready for fires or cooking just in case the men had to leave. He was still running this house like it was wartime, year round. Ida blew her nose from a napkin up her sleeve, damn pollen is horrible this year. Your granddad was concerned for Emma, worried about her and the devastation she could cause. Ida leaned over and grabbed a thin stick against the wall and tossed it to her.
Granddad came into view walking with a cane in the yard, towards some men cutting down trees he marked the day before. Ava could tell by his eyes that he walked blindly, unaware of his surroundings. She watched as her granddad got closer to the men that were chopping, wanting to scream, look out. She heard a man yelling, Michael STOP, please look at me, it was James, Michael’s grandfather. He was running so fast straight for his Seer. Ava heard a man yell "timber" and could hear the cracking of the wood as it began to fall to the ground. Ava saw what James saw, her granddad was in the path of the tree. Right before the tree hit the ground, James thru his body at his Seer and shoved him out of the way. Ava watched as that tree thundered to the ground and landed directly over James. Ava shouted out NO, and began to cry as she watched her granddad crawl over to his Warrior, pleading he would be okay as he grabbed James hand. Ava felt nothing now except grief and despair as she listened hard to hear James say, watch over Ida and Brain, before he was gone. Ava wiped her eyes trying to let go of the echo of grief, around all this tragedy. When she opened her eyes again, Ida was smiling at her and said, I'm sorry you had to see that, but dearest, this is the reason for all your issues with Michael.
Ava couldn't see how this was the reason, but she waited for Ida to explain, handing back the cane. That evening, your grandfather Michael came to me and told me everything. He told me, my loss was his fault. He told me, how after he got my sisters message about Emma going rogue, he tried to use his gifts to locate her. He didn't want harm to come to her, no matter what she’s done, all he ever wanted was her happiness. Charles and Brian were still away coming to terms with their new responsibility, so he went on his walk, he tried to see but he got stuck in the dark. He couldn't see or hear anything. He said, he didn't even know he was still walking around. He told me it was his punishment for blocking his sight all those years. Anyway Ida said, one day he brought me down here to this room and said here is your new suite. He said, I know the stairs bother you and I know you like your own space. So here I stayed Ida clarified. In a way I think it was your granddads way of taking care of me, or just getting me closer to the oven, so I could make his favorite cookies who knows. This made Ava giggle a little, Ida giving her a small grin in return.
Ida walked over to her chair in front of the broken window and gestured with her hand for Ava to sit across from her. Ida continued, Brain could not live with the fact of getting weak, he couldn't come to terms with his father’s death. So he turned this estate into a self-propelled ship. Brain talked Charles into firing all the outside staff. He figured if you didn't live here, you were a threat. Brain said to Charles, those men who cut down that tree should have known better, been more professional. If they were, none of this would have happened. Charles let Brain run things after that, especially when it came to protecting this family. So my Brain began firing everyone that wasn't living here, which meant only family stayed. He decided no one could be trusted and began doing everything himself. Which entailed running the perimeter of the estate twice a day, morning and night. He said it was for endurance and to check for hazards. He never missed a day, rain or shine. While he cataloged dangerous hazards, trees, rocks, holes in the ground and even animals and plants. Anything that could harm his family or Charles, had to go, and the town suffered greatly feeling the magnitude of Brian's loss. This last tragedy with your parents and our Vivienne, sent the town into the dark ages.

Do you understand Ava, I think our Michael has been taking advice from his father’s journals. He's trying not to be weak. He doesn't want to fail you or be unprepared. Ava understood perfectly. She too felt vulnerable with her sight but never doubted Michael, he was always her rock. Ava got up and thanked Ida and kissed her cheek. She helped her get up and hugged her, feeling like they'd been through a lot today.
After that Ava went into the kitchen and started making shepherd’s pie for Michael, knowing he could eat. Ida finished peeling and cutting potatoes. While she started to shuck the corn cobs, which was hard work one handed, and began to miss Michael, so she reached out trying to feel for him. She knew she needed to get better at finding him with her sight without a trigger, she closed her eyes and listened, forced herself to feel for him. After a few moments of thinking about nothing but him, the way he smells, his sly grin, and that place in her heart only he could fill. She began to notice that same tingly feeling spreading towards her heart. Her ear drums began to amplify a thumping noise. A thumping, Ida asked. Yes Ava replied embarrassed she said that aloud. I'm trying to feel Michael and all I can hear is a rhythmic thumping. Ava opened her eyes, and Ida cut her off and said I think it's his "heart", and as long as you breathe his heart will always be calling out to you. His love will always be your trigger to him dearest one.
The woman heard Michael banging his shoes on the porch and decided to investigate. Ava found the puppy laying on the porch exhausted, and looked at Michael and saw he looked happy and unharmed, it looked good on him after all the stress they had lately. She smiled as he lifted her up and kissed her long and hard, while Bo barked at him. Michael stepped back and said, sorry gran I missed her and then pointed at the dog and said, "Mine" with a dominating growl. Ava giggled and rubbed Bos ears and asked Michael, how was your run, Bo seems pooped. Michael laughed and replied, it's good for her, so she doesn't become weak and useless. Ava let this go, no point in ruining the rest of the night with an argument. Michael continued, all is good around the perimeter tonight. I cut and filled the outpost of wood, just let me know when we need to bring it closer to the Manor.
Ida nodded and smiled with pride at her grandson, and went inside to finish dinner. Ava said reassuringly, she has been good all day, no memory issues at all. That's great Michael thought, but she's still not getting the gun back. Fine, Ava said in agreement when Michael turned to her and asked, any news on my father. Ava felt embarrassed, she has been so caught up in her own drama here she forgot to check in with Brain. No she admitted, but let’s check now. Ava took off her slip on sneakers and stepped off the porch into the grass.
After today, Ava knew how connected Brain was with this land and figured it couldn't hurt to be touching it, because she didn't know how far she could see, unsure if distance was a problem. Ava wiggled her toes in the grass, Bo jumped down and laid at her feet. She smiled and took a deep breath, Michael laid his hand on Ava's shoulder like always, letting her know he was there and exhaled calling Brains name in her head.
Nothing happened frustrating Ava, Michael needed news on his dad, she owed him that much. So Ava tried again, nothing. Confused she looked at Michael, he could see the disappointment all over her face. Why can't I see him, what’s wrong with me. No wonder you’re always working to protect me, I'm defective. Hey Michael said, stop. There could be so many reasons why you can't see, defective you are not. Now try this Michael said reaching into the duffle bag, and handing Ava a small round flat compact mirror, that had a stain of a bloody thumb print on the reflective surface. Dad left this in his Journal for me, probably knowing I’d want answers and go looking. She grabbed it out of his hand and the moment it touched her skin everything went dark. She heard Bo whine, and smiled knowing she could still hear them. Brain came into focus and was talking to her like she was standing on the other side of a window.
Ava I hope you see this, Emma is unstable. She is traveling the country looking for answers. I have made contact. The second she walked past me, she spun around and stood right in front of me. I introduced myself and watched her eyes glaze over for only a second, but I don't think her sight is strong at all. She seems desperate to find something. I'm going to continue to follow her closely and keep her safe for now. Maybe she will be drawn back to me enough times to realize she needs me. Please tell Michael I love him, then he was gone.
Michael hearing the whole message via Ava’s echoed voice, sounded relieved when he said, dad’s okay, he can take care of himself, like he didn’t believe it until that moment. Michael what was that, your dad was so close I could’ve reached out and touched him through the glass. Ava I don’t know, I was just following my father’s instructions, but I promise to keep reading until I know everything. That’s not what Ava meant at all, but didn’t get to say so because Michael grabbed her hand and led them into the house, Bo following close behind. As they entered the kitchen Michael said smells good in here gran, need any help. Ida only replied, wash your hands and set the table. Ava found a bowl for Bo and filled it with water and set it on the floor.
Michael finished pouring sweet tea into the glasses when Ida put dinner on the table, then turned and put a special plate of steak and vegetables on the floor for Bo. Ava watched her while she picked out all the steak and swore she heard Bo say I hate these leaving the veggies, than went and slept under Michael’s chair. Once everyone was settled in and began to eat in silence Ida said, we got a letter today. Michael looked up and continued to chew and asked, "How"? We have no mail box, no one comes here so what’s your secret? Pigeon, was all the explanation she gave in response. Michael looked at both women for more information and got none, so he just shook his head and said from whom. Again Ida only said, Ann-Marie. Michael thought back and said your sister. Ida nodded. Michael looked across the table at his gran and said, gran enough either tell me what the letter said or don't bring it up, because I can't take guessing games right now. Ida not amused with her grandson’s lack of fun, slide the letter over to Ava. She barely touch it and saw an old woman sitting at a table besides her writing, getting the feeling of the contents. She felt Bo’s paws on her legs and was standing up to see her face, as gran’s sister disappeared. Ava scratched her ears and said good girl, watching the pup just lay back down at Michael’s feet.
There has been another flood in Louisiana, Ava informed. A real bad one, seemed to take her house with it, destroying everything. She is requesting permission to come to the estate. Ida nodded and smiled at Ava, impressed at her abilities and turned to look at her grandson. Michael’s whole body was shaking. Bo was standing tall beside him watching every move he made with her little head turned to the side, like she was trying to learn what he wanted. Ava asked, what’s wrong Michael sensing his temper? Without even looking at Ava he said "No". It's not safe for a visitor now, maybe another time. Ava confused asked, did you not here me, she has nowhere to go, she's your family. Michael stood and said, I’ll pay for her to stay at a damn motel down south. Ava took a deep calming breath and asked Michael, what is unsafe. What has you so worked up and unease about this visit? Michael cracked and began to yell, don't you two understand, this is the woman who raised Emma, don't you see she could be a spy.
Ava watching Michael didn't notice Bo until now. Her ears were down, her tail between her legs and her fur was standing up on her back and neck. Ida stood up at Michael’s outburst and slammed her small hands on the table and yelled back, she is my sister, not a spy. Bo started to growl, which made Michael bend down and stroke the guardian whispering good girl, calm down, I’m sorry.
Michael stood back up and faced his gran. They stared at each other for a long time before Michael said, as long as Ava is safe and sees no danger then fine with me. Let me know when she arrives. Ida replied, I'm going to pick her up and I'll do the shopping at the same time. Nell and I have made that trip every month for at least 30 years.
Michael asked, where do you store that donkey? Ava was curious, not ever seeing a stable. She has a shed in the woods a ways behind the Manor. She comes in the morning and night for her food then leaves. Michael said well, we will have to take the jeep, we will all go Bo needs to learn how to ride in a car anyway. Michael could see his gran was going to argue with him, so he added I don't want you on that cart until we know you’re at least okay, no more lapses in judgment.
Michael left the table and went upstairs to probably take a shower. Bo stayed with Ava as she cleared dinner and washed the dishes. Ava gave gran a kiss and asked if she needed anything. She didn't, so Ava said gran can I ask you something, while she sat down on the floor to play with Bo. Sure Ida said, curious. Well earlier we were talking Ava began, and you said James knew my grandfather Michael was in trouble, well how did he know? Ida smiled and replied his bond and Duke. Duke Ava asked, then saw a big black dog walk by her and out of the kitchen. Yes I see, Ava said I'm sorry to ask. No Ida said, it is perfectly ok. Ava stood up and said will you sleep upstairs tonight. Why would I do that Ida asked? Ava replied your window is broken remember. Ida said, don't worry it will be like having air conditioning. Ava giggled and said fine, have it your way but I'm going to have Michael put plastic up until he can fix it.
Ava turned away and went upstairs with Bo at her heals. She loved having Bo around, she felt less lonely. As they climbed the two flights to her towering bedroom, Bo ran passed and jumped on the bed next to Michael and passed out. She giggled, got undressed and went to sleep, exhausted not sleeping the night before.
Ava was having a weird dream, she could see her father lying in bed, tossing and turning. When Ava heard that same musical voice that has been haunting her for weeks, but instead of saying her name, she was saying Charles. Ava sat up straight in bed gasping. It was still dark out, Bo starting whining which woke up Michael. He grabbed Ava and said in an urgent voice, what happened. Ava replied, my dad heard her too, then Ava remembered the vision of her father cleaning out there rooms saying "she will never find you". Ava gasped as it all started to make sense. Don't you see, Emma killed our family. She was the small man in the hood. My father knew she was coming and sent us away, he stripped are rooms of any evidence we existed.
Bo curled up in Ava's lap and Michael held Ava and started to make connections with her. What about my dad, do you think he knows, Michael asked? How could he know, my father didn't see until the last minute? I don't think he knew he was going to die, maybe that’s why he sent Brain and Ida away. Ava was frustrated, defeated and simply exhausted. She had no one that could tell her what was going on. She explained to Michael her feelings, while rubbing Bo's belly. I wish I knew what the extent of my father’s last days were like, what he saw. Michael grinned and got out of bed, slipped on shorts and left the room. Bo followed in step with him leaving Ava alone.
Bo returned first, she was wiggling and twisting like she couldn't control her tail or butt. Ava giggled and said, what is it Bo, you’re so sweet. Bo turned, putting herself between Ava and the door. She was growling so softly, Ava touch her head and said good girl, then she heard Michael on the stairs. Bo started doing circles when she saw him. He was carrying a journal in his hand as he climb back into bed, and placed a journal in her lap above her covered legs.
Ava began to ask what this is, when she felt a static feeling tingle down her arms, and into her fingers. No Ava said, raising her hands over her head saying in an urgent voice, get my father’s journal away from me. Bo grabbed the book and pulled it to the end of the bed and left it there, returning in between them were she laid down. Ava picked up Bo and hugged her, telling her she was a sweet girl and she couldn't imagine life without her now. Michael started to get out of bed saying, well then I guess my work here is done.
Ava lost it and began laughing so hard she almost peed her pants. She didn't realize how much she needed to laugh until this moment. Michael always knowing what she needs, and the wit to cheer her up. But it didn't last, a couple hours later She awoke to Bo needing to go outside. Ava stood up and got dressed still groggy as she walked down the stairs and began to open the front door. When something on the entry table seemed to glimmer and catch her attention. Ava moved Michael’s bag and saw the compact. Thinking Michael probably forgot to put it away, Ava picked it up expecting to see as she did before but like usual, nothing ever went as she wanted it to. Following Bo outside and watching as she ran off the porch and disappearing into the garden. She sat down on the porch swing and listened to Bo run around chasing small rabbits out of Vivienne’s garden. Bo was so cute acting all tough, making Ava smile. Taking a deep breath inhaling the cool night air, wondering what Brian would think about their new Guardian, and Ann Marie coming to visit. Without having to say his name or even try to see him, Brian was there in front of her again.
Ava, Emma came to my room, she seems to have a use for me. I needed to set some rules. Please be aware, she is ruthless when it comes to getting what she wants. She has no code or morals. I'm trying to find out what she's looking for but she doesn't trust me yet. There is something about her that bothers me, but I just don't know the extent. Hope all is well, tell Michael I love him.
Ava opened her eyes and Bo was sitting in front of her, her head sideways as if trying to keep up with the conversation, tail wagging. Ava smiled and sat down on the porch floor beside her, letting Bo rest her head on her lap while she pet her ears. Ava was exhausted and leaned her head back and looked up towards the stars, trying to keep Emma out of her thoughts. Hearing from Brian gave her some piece of mind knowing he was safe. She didn’t doubt Brains messages, even thou she didn’t understand how it was done. Just another one of those things she just needed to accept, like everything else from her past.
Bo started to growl taking Ava out of her thoughts, noticing that stupid raven came back and sat on the railing staring at her. The stupid bird didn’t fly away when Bo stood up getting upset, instead it just stood there and continued to stare. Ava hated this bird, everything about it seemed evil. Bo feeling Ava's unease started barking louder with more aggression. Ava watched fascinated as Bo turn from sweet to incredibly fierce. She could actually see Bo as a dog, big beautiful powerful force to be reckoned with. Ava couldn't feel anything but pride as she watched Bo turn back into a pup, then she remembered I protect her now and she will protect me later.  Standing without thought reached out and punched it. I guess there's a first time for everything, because Ava felt the shock displayed on the birds face as its big black body hit the earth. Bo stopped barking as the bird stumbled and flew away. Ava turned and there stood Michael, his basketball shorts hanging very low, so low you could see his happy trail, as she liked to call it. His muscles bulged perfectly to his frame, he was gorgeous, jaw dropping hot. Ava couldn't help it, everything in her being craved him. She walked over and grabbed his head in between her hands and kissed him, jumping into his arms. It took Michael two point five seconds to secure the lock and make her forget everything that had her upset. By the time they reached the staircase landing, all time seemed to melt away into the quiet of the night. The only evidence they were awake was the trail of clothes leading up the stairs, and the occasional art work as it hit the floor.
The birds seemed to be making a racket outside waking Ava to an empty room. She walked to the window and looked down, hoping to see Michael. His legs were hanging out of a bush, so she opened the window and heard him talking to himself. No, watch it, shh stay quiet. No watch, shh stay. He got quieter and quieter, making Ava strain to hear. "Now" he yelled suddenly, taking Ava by surprise. Bo came out of the bushes like a shot, running across the lawn, chasing a rabbit. Ava watched the hunt, Bo twisting and turning, mimicking the rabbits every move, then it was gone. Most likely down a hole because Bo started wailing and howling. Ava wanted to cry, she felt Bo’s pain of defeat, and watched silently as Michael came out of the bushes and walked over to her. He crouched low and pulled Bo into a one armed hug and said, its ok girl, she just had a plan B, you'll get her next time. Ava enjoyed witnessing the bond that grew between best friends, thankful for Bo and all the things she does for each of them.
Ava got dressed and went down to make breakfast, Ida was there sipping tea at the table. Ava didn't know which Ida was sitting here so she said, good morning gran sleep well. Yes, yes she said, all but Bo's barking, what was her deal that early? Ava smiled and said, a raven on the porch. That can't be a good sign Ida said. No I guess not Ava replied, that's why I punched it. Well, well Ida said smiling, are you picking a fight. I guess I am Ava said, the bird started it.
Ava spent the morning talking to gran, telling her about her visions about Charles and Emma. Told her how it was odd of her father to send his Warrior away. Ida said, you know this already dearest. Your father left his most trusted treasure with the only person close enough and strong enough to keep you safe. Sacrificing his own life, and in doing so kept his killer from taking your only defense by binding his oath to you. Could you imagine her ruling this Estate and controlling Brian without him ever learning the truth. I don’t know why he sent me away that day, but if I had to guess, I was Brains only family left that knew about everything. Well maybe not everything but enough to fill in your gaps.
Ava knew this made sense, and loved her father more for leaving these clues for her to find. Ida’s honesty broke down Ava’s walls causing her to admit, gran I'm afraid to go in the study. You heard what’s in there, I'm afraid to see anymore. What was all this death for, Ava asked feeling raw? Ida just took Ava's hand and said, for you dearest, in this moment, it either continues or dies with you. I'm not telling you this to scare you dearest one, only to tell you knowledge is power. The more you know, the more clarity you will have. Face your fears dearest, but take Michael and Bo for support, Ida added. I know I know she thought, sometimes it helps to lay your fears at the mercy of your family and sometimes it doesn’t, but Ava was just thankful to have someone to talk too. Oh dad, Ava thought to herself, you think of everything don’t you, you sent Ida away that day so I’d have someone to talk too. Needing to distract herself from her thoughts Ava said changing the subject, I'm going into the city to get glass for your room. We might have to modify it, because I know Michael won't let anyone here to deliver the size we need. Anyway, do you need anything? No, no nothing for me, I have everything I need, Ida replied.
After some heavy persuading Michael and Ava had a great day. Bo wasn't car sick at all. They ended up buying the wood for fixing grans room and a little extra for Bo to get a doghouse beside the porch. Ava figured she should change something’s and keep Michael and Bo at home for a while, instead of constantly moving. So instead of glass, they got two good size windows to fix gran’s room. They also stopped at a doggy store and let Bo pick a bunch of toys and bones, mostly bones. Surprised Bo wasn’t bothered by all the domesticated dogs in the store. Michael unloaded the trailer he had to buy, to get this stuff home. He explained it couldn't hurt to have one, to justify the purchase. Ava told Michael, you keep acquiring more things on wheels you’re going to need a garage. Then she kicked herself for putting the idea out there.

Ava didn't want to think about her father, but it was getting hard not to. She has been trying to distract herself all day from her thoughts, but she just kept going back to it. Michael spent the day fixing grans room, Bo laying nearby watching his every move, while she tore the head off her stuffed duck, and left the stuffing everywhere. She walked in with a glass of tea, and Michael looked over and lost his concentration and hit his thumb with the hammer. Ouch he yelled and said, damn it Ava, you need to come with a caution sign that states don’t use heavy machinery when you’re near. Ava giggled and handed Michael his tea and kissed his thumb gently, before sucking on it for a moment teasing him. She turned to Bo and said, what is all this mess? Bo who perked her ears up when Ava started talking, now had her ears down after she heard the word "mess". Michael said, it's not a mess she's in training. Oh really there mister man, then you her trainer will clean this up. She rubbed Bo's ears and kissed Michael and walked out of the room. Michael turned to Bo and said, man I love that girl, isn't she beautiful. Bo just huffed and began ripping the wings off the duck, letting Michael get back to work.
Ava wanted to mix it up tonight and made a lasagna from a recipe in the cabinet. She was setting it in the oven, and about to close the door when she heard that damn raven’s caw again. You'd think that bird would get the hint Ava thought and went in search of it, but found no sign. Bo found Ava in the back of the house and jumped up on her, but Ava didn't respond. She was thinking about her father, and this elaborate plan that he put together in just one morning, unable to comprehend the levels there were to it. How did he know, she never saw herself unless someone else was the main focus. How did he know, this just wouldn't sit well with her. Ouch Ava said, snatching her hand up to her chest and looked down. Shocked and hurt, she was surprised to see Bo had actually bit her. Then Ava heard Michael say from behind her, sorry love, I wanted to see what would work. Work on what Ava asked? You, Michael replied. Bo whined, growled, and barked, jumped up and even pulled your sleeve. Well that one worked a little, you did turn with her, but you still paid no attention. So she nipped you, which worked but now you’re upset, so it back fired, my bad. Ava was upset but let it go. Bo needed to know her and if that meant getting a little love bite, she was going to endure.
The next couple days were quiet. Michael continued to fix grans room, then started on Bo's doghouse. They both came out wonderful, no doubt. Michael built it in such a way that it looked like they were always there. They spent a lot of time working on Bo's training. Michael and Bo seemed so in tuned with each other’s emotions and body language, that they didn't need instruction. Ava enjoyed watching them run and move in Unison. Bo was fantastic, she seemed so happy all the time. From training to just sleeping in her doghouse, she was content. Ida even knitted Bo a big blanket for her to lay on in her house. Bo loved it, rolling and rubbing all over it, getting her scent deep in the fibers. Ida seemed pleased at this action, and just sat beside her in her rocking chair and hummed.
Later that evening, a pigeon landed on the table next to Ida. Bo stood up and growled. Ida pointed at her and said not this time, and Bo laid down with a huff keeping an eye on this intruder, growling under her breathe. Ida unwrapped a piece of small paper and said Ann-Marie will be here in town tomorrow. Ida took the bird into her room, so not to tempt Bo any further.
The ride into town was nice. Ann- Marie seemed kind, blunt, and had a great sense of humor. She was a little portly, short, and smelled of incense and oils, but her spirited personality made her seem larger than she was. After unloading Ann Marie's bag, and all the shopping Ida did in town. Michael showed Ann Marie to one of the unused rooms on the first floor, and left her in Ida's hands for the rest of the day. He didn't fully trust his aunt yet, even thou gran spoke up for her. So he did the only thing left to do, watch and wait, and if a lessor man he'd add an I told you so.
Ava finally getting up the nerve, went up to her bedroom and looked under the bed. Brian and her father’s words seemed too important to ignore, especially with Ann Marie visiting causing Michael to worry. She pulled her father’s journal out expecting to be pulled into a vision the minute she touched it, but nothing happened. There were things that plagued her soul and she needed answers. The biggest question, why didn’t her father tell Brian, so he could protect them. Ava didn't realize she was holding her breath and exhaled deciding she wanted Michael to read it with her, unable to do it on her own. She found Michael being trapped by the sisters, asking there endless questions to each other as they caught up on what has been happening since the last time they saw each other. Michael of course agreed to anything Ava wanted to do, as long as it got him away from the granny brigade. He led Ava out to the front porch swing, while Ava explained what she needed. When they were comfortable Michael asked her, where do you want to start? Ava thought about it and said, the last day or journal entry. I need to know, so don't stop reading, like pulling off a band aid. Michael kissed Ava and began to read.

This morning I awoke to a woman calling my name. It was very unnerving to say the least. This has never happened before, wish I had more information.
 Ten am starting to hear the woman’s voice even when I'm napping. Getting concerned going to look through dads journals and see if he experienced this.
Eleven  Found family tree in father’s cabinet in the study. Seems I have a twin sister Emma. Wonder what else he has hidden from me.
Six pm Found letters from Ida's sister Ann Marie in father’s cabinet. My dear sister is angry and looking for genealogical answers. In the letters it says she's violent and unstable. Going to keep looking around.
Eight pm after reading all the letters and all documentation, I've decided to try and see Emma. I've got to know what she is looking for, and why she keeps calling out to me. I read that when a Seer is Warrior less there soul will call out, without their knowledge, with hopes of being answered. If she is as unhinged as everyone seems to think, then I need to know what she's up to and try to help.
One am got stuck in darkness for a couple hours. Saw flashes of images of different places and strangers faces. Have no idea what that was about. Then I realized I was in my sister’s sight. She doesn't feel strong. I could feel her anger, desperation, and some feeling I couldn’t understand. If I had to name it, hatred. I only recognized one image, the estate. She's coming here. I am thankful for Lobo. She is such a smart guardian. She sat patiently with me for five long hours while I searched Emma’s abilities, keeping me grounded. Brian trained her well.
Five am burned all photographs I could find, picked up and discarded all signs of family connections to Brian and Ida. Loaded everything else in Ida's cart to go to the barn. I'm leaving journals, they look like regular books so hopefully she doesn’t look to close. Waiting on kids to wake up and start there day, so I can finish. Sending Brian and Ida away, hopefully it will be long enough for whatever happens to play out. By the time I'm done this house will look like only I live here alone. Hopefully Sarah and Vivienne leave on schedule to donate their pies and cakes.
Michael stopped talking. He looked at Ava in a small voice and said, so he didn't plan for our mom's to be there. I guess not Ava replied gently, does this mean Emma is coming back here? No Michael replied to her question. Not yet, remember the note, she's still blind to you. Except her bird, Ava said in an alarming tone. What are you talking about, Michael asked concerned he missed something? That raven, Ava began, it has been back a couple times that I know about. Do you think it's like the pigeons, it did bring us that scroll? Well, Michael said thinking of a course of action. Next time it comes back let Bo handle it. Bo came out from under the swing at her name being mentioned. Michael looked at her and said, yes you, you’re such a good girl, now let’s go get some kibble.
Michael please wait a second, Ava grabbed his forearm as he started to get up. Ava had things that were bothering her, and she needed to talk them out with him, while no one was around. Michael a little on edge said, what’s happened is dad still okay? Yes Ava replied, as far as I know he is. My father has told me time and time again from beyond the grave to trust your father, I will never doubt him Michael, no matter what. His guidance has led us this far I will not turn my back on him now. Michael watched Ava's face for any signs as she talked, nodding along with her words, he knew this felt right. Then what did you want to talk to me about Michael asked with a hesitant look. Ava thought how trivial her worries were compared to him, and wasn't going to continue, yet she couldn't refuse him when he looked at her like that so exposed. Us, she eventually said softly. What about us, were great Michael replied a little curious now. I was wondering Michael where did the fire go. Michael was confused, what fire? Ava felt foolish and stopped talking, saying never mind. No, NO please explain Ava so I understand, Michael pleaded. Before, whenever we were close or feeling intense emotion for each other, your eyes would change to include a glimmer of red. Really, Michael said with a smile, that sounds cool. Well, Ava continued not wanting to be side tracked by his grin, it's gone now, and I haven't seen it in weeks. Do you not feel the same way about me? Michael thought he understood her question and answered, Ava love, how could you say that, or feel that way? You drive me insane. Every time I feel you, think about you, or just see you, I end up distracted. Ava rolled her eyes. You need proof Michael continued, fine.
Remember that night in the motel when I joined you in the shower. Yes Ava replied, your eyes were on fire, you were so intense. Well Michael continued, I only went in there because you were so consumed with your own feelings you actually pulled me to you. I could feel you were upset, I felt taken over by you, like my only thought was you. Ava gasped feeling bad, I’m so sorry Michael. Don't Michael said, worth every minute, I would do it again? Michael kept talking looking at Ava as she giggled. Repairing grans wall, you walked in and I got distracted and hit my thumb with the hammer. Then I go running, feel you tug on me and I lose my concentration and end up falling in a crypt. Ava tried to hide her embarrassment when Michael lifted her chin to look at her and asked, what is it Ava? I was watching you run and got turned on. Really Michael interrupted with that sly grin, good to know. See, we have love and passion, besides maybe my eyes change color to you, when you’re the one feeling over whelmed or emotional. Ava did not think of it that way, but now it started to make a little sense, and made her feel worse. No one should ever have that kind of power over someone else.
Anything else Michael asked Ava interrupting her personal thought. Yes, I have been trying to figure something out. Talk it out with me, he replied. The first time in the study I could feel a tingle and tug from my families journals, but just now nothing when I picked this one up. I touched your dads map and Ida's letter, I didn't actually have to read them. I could just touch them and get a kind of summary and feeling of what it says. Michael took a while but came up with an answer. You’re blocking like your grandfather did. Blocking Ava asked? Ever since that day in the study, you refuse to go back in there. The one room that holds hundreds of years of answers, and you refuse to see it. Let go of your fear love, open your heart and see, feel, and except what you need to do. Try removing your emotions from the equation. Ava thought about his words and understood what Michael was trying to say. Okay Ava said, so conquer my fears, put emotion aside, and see what I'm supposed to see, easy. Yes, Michael said suppressing a laugh at her sarcasm adding, I will be with you if you want me to be. Ava had a lot to think about, but she didn't touch the journal again. Instead she asked Michael to put it away for now.
Ava and Bo went into the kitchen, the sisters were cooking. The kitchen had so many intoxicating aromas it was like plunging into a sauna of sugar and spice. Bo ran over to get water and kibble, while Ava watched the sisters bicker and fight over recipes, but smiling the whole time. Ava not having any siblings found these women fascinating to watch. Ida noticed Ava and smiled at her reassuringly. Ann Marie noticing turned and stood up, walked over to Ava and grabbed her hand, excited to catch up.
Immediately Ava was flooded with emotion. She stiffened as she tasted the salt water that filled the house around her. She could hear the roar of the wind as it slammed into the house. She could feel the house shake and crack as it came off the foundation under her. Ava was very cold her teeth started to chatter, she was losing feeling in her feet and legs. She felt her body leave the ground as the house flipped over, she could taste blood when her face hit something hard. Ava started to panic realizing the water was about to engulf her, she was out of breath when everything went dark.
Ava was becoming aware of the commotion around her, slowly. She tried to open her eyes but everything was blurry. She felt Bo next to her, could hear her growling. Is someone crying Ava thought? Michael was yelling, if you hurt her I promise I will kill you. I don't give a shit if your family, out talking his grandmother’s worried pleas. Ava blinked and Bo kissed her face. Ava felt Michael pick her up and ask are you alright love, please answer me before my aunt meets an untimely death. Ava tried to talk, but she felt like she swallowed sand. Her throat felt raw, burned. Michael set her down on the counter. Someone must have moved because Michael screamed Don't you fuck’n move, I don't care if you bleed to death, you deserve it. NOW SIT DOWN. Ava heard a chair move, then silence.
Ava slowly started to see the room as her blurriness seemed to subside. She looked at Michael and gave him the universal sign for needing a drink, by tipping her cupped hand to her mouth. Michael didn't move far, he just reached over and grabbed a glass of water from the sink. After the forth glass she could talk, the memory of her vision made her throat sore and her head hurt. Ava grabbed Michael and wrapped her arms around him, and asked what just happened. Michael pulled her tight and said I don't know I was hoping you could tell me. I returned the journal like you asked he whispered, and heard Bo go pup shit crazy. She was growling and barking, making awful noises I never want to here again. Then she made a sound like someone hurt her. I ran to the corner, just as I came in Bo jumped and grabbed my stupid Aunt’s arm hard. There was blood and I saw you suffocating and hit the floor. I lost it a little, I was following Bo's lead, she said danger, and you were hurt. Ava reached up and touched her throbbing bloody lip. Confused she looked over Michael's shoulder at the woman, they actually looked frightened. Ida was trembling, standing in front of her sister, using her body as a shield protecting her. Ava took in Michael and he was overwhelming to look at, the power and strength he was radiating, was mind blowing. Then she saw it, the fire. His eyes were ablaze, Ava got her answer at this family’s expense. This is what Michael her Warrior looks like. Thinking back, every time I've seen this he thought I was in danger. Ava never thought her own feelings would trigger this side of him. Thinking the damage he could accomplish if she was really in trouble? Ava immediately decided to stop questioning things, it seems like every time she has a concern the universe makes it happen. Ava closed her eyes and took deep calming breathes. It still hurt a little from the phantom pain in her lungs, she needed to calm herself so her Warrior would relax. She sighed and thought I have to stop letting my emotions run my visions, to stop upsetting Bo and Michael, I've got to get control.
Michael Ava finally said, I'm not one hundred percent sure but I think this was partly my fault. Gran please check out Ann Marie, Ava said over Michael's shoulder. Ida stood a moment more looking at her grandsons back. He didn't move so Ida turned and helped her sister. There were puncture holes but she'd live.
Michael continued to hold Ava, he whispered are you destined to leave me alone love. Ava could only kiss him and apologize. She explained she felt something like this before. During the ascend, suffocating winds. When your aunt touched me, I felt like I was in a storm. I was freezing and drowning, the wind brutal.
So during your change, you predicted the hurricane that took out her house Michael puzzled? I do remember that, we just didn't know what it meant at the time, he added trying to put it all together. So when my aunt lives through one, you touch her, and what Michael asked worried. I don't know what that was, that has never happened before Ava answered honestly. I have never had a vision by touching someone before, Ava continued talking it out with Michael. This always seems to calm him, which in turn calms her. I guess it’s my job to make sure no one touches you than, Michael said kissing her lips again.
Feeling calmer he turned to his gran and aunt when Ida was done wrapping her arm. He apologized for his misjudgment and disrespect, and he even apologized for Bo’s outburst. Surprisingly Aunt Ann Marie gave Bo an oatmeal cookie and said, No I should have never touched Ava after what I've been through. It was probably some sort of sensory transference. I have been away too long, I forgotten all the rules, that’s all. I swear, it will not happen again. Michael I love you, I am truly sorry, but I have to say, wow. You were so angry and powerful, I was scared for a moment. Looking over his shoulder Ann Marie said, Ava dearest I'm so glad you’re okay, I didn't mean you any harm. Ava believed her, but had enough interaction for now. She grabbed Michael and went up to their bedroom. Ava asked, why does his whole family call me dearest? Because your dad use to call you that Michael answered. I guess it stuck, with those who knew you, Michael finished. Yeah that makes sense, Ava replied sitting down at the little table in there room, the one Michael sometimes uses as a desk, looking out at the landscape around the property. Michael had done a great job.
He sat down beside her and started to apologize for not being there when she needed him. Ava was shocked and said, Michael how can you say that? You have been by my side our whole lives. The only time you ever tried to hurt me was the gum incident, and even then you felt horrible. Michael smiled at her quick ability to forgive his mistakes and said, Ava you have almost been taken from me to many times, I keep failing you at every turn. No, Ava said gently, placing her hand on his cheek. You have saved me every day, from C.P.R., to just loving me. You remind me Michael that I have a lot to lose, I figured you would hate me the longer we are stuck on the run. Michael bowed his head and said, Ava you have never hurt me, ever. If anything you have given me more reasons every day to fight for our future. I'm sorry I can't do more, it's hard to fight an enemy who won't show itself. I promise no one will hurt you again, even if that means no one can physically touch you. Ava kissed Michael and looked him in the eyes and said, NO.
Michael looked confused so Ava said, you have never failed me Michael. If anything I have failed you by being weak. So weak I can't master my own curse. Ever since the day after the change, I feel a void, that's probably why they didn't have female Seers. I prove it every day by being weak with emotion. Michael in a strong dominant voice said, I do not believe that for a minute love. There is no way the fates got it wrong. You are my Seer, I will get stronger, and I will protect you. Ava didn't want to fight, this was one of those times they were not going to agree. So all she said to him was the only truth she did know, we will be alright, as long as we stay together.
Ann Marie apologized to Ida again for forgetting her place. Ida was always the big sister, the one that cleaned up the mess and made everything better. No worries Ida replied getting the dishware to set the table. Just stay clear of the younglings for a bit, give them a wide berth. Michael's still being introduced to his Warrior self and I wouldn’t want to lose you because you crossed him. I know, I know Ann Marie moaned. When’s Brian coming back, surely he’s in a better position to give the boy guidance. That’s up to Emma, Ida exclaimed ending their conversation on the topic.
After Ava and Michael calmed down, Ava informed Michael they needed to go down for dinner, gran was waiting. Michael requesting she don’t touch anything more than she needed to, just as a precaution. Garden salad, and kabobs was on the menu tonight, looked like the ladies had a week worth of meals planned and prepped, ready to go at a moment’s notice. Ava spent the whole dinner watching the sisters bicker over everything. From the news of the day, to the neighbors down the way, there wasn’t a topic they couldn’t fight over. They could not agree to save their lives, but even though they were arguing she could see the love under their words. The looks, the body language all said love, just their words seemed harsh.
Ida’s contradictory snicker of a laugh brought Ava back to the conversation at hand. She was smiling at her sister and saying, yes but can you ride your birds, can they carry heavy loads, no they certainly cannot. Ann Marie pretended to be shocked and said, true, true, but my birds eat less, get my correspondence out, and I don't need any bigger than a closet to house them. Ida replied, The United States Postal Service could do what those rats with wings can do with less hassle. Ann Marie not to be out done called Ida an old mule. Ida laughed at the reference to her donkey, and called her sister a bird brain like her pigeons. Ann Marie threw a cherry tomato at her sister across the table, which Ida caught and said, thanks for the special delivery, arriving without damage, giving her a final jab about her birds as she put it into her mouth.
Ava smiled and picked at her dinner enjoying the family time that she’s missed since Brian left. After a while though she began to feel nauseous, she noticed the smells that normally brought her joy, were now making her sick. Michael finished eating and looked tired giving Ava an excuse to lay down awhile, and maybe beat this stomach virus before it takes hold causing the family to worry. After everything that happened lately, she was lucky to just have an unsettled stomach. So after helping clean up dinner Ava took Michael and Bo to bed, sleep always brought the promise of a new day.
Ava awoke to her aunt calling her name again, it wasn’t surprising. She was hoping it would stop soon, but glad in a way, because it kept her focused on the task at hand. It was so easy to get lost in time here, the outside world a fading memory. Michael and Bo were gone so Ava closed her eyes and looked for them, trying to perfect her bond with her Warrior. A feeling she has never known caught her attention, the last time she felt anything close to the feeling was when Brian and Ida described the death of a loved one. This of course startled Ava making her more determined to find him. Ava chanted to calm herself by saying, everyone is safe, find Michael. Quicker than she expected she found him, it took a moment for Ava to take in his surroundings and saw what he was doing. Michael was digging a grave near the crypt, she could see a blanket laying on the ground next to the pile of dirt.
Getting dressed in a hurry she ran all the way to them hoping it hadn’t happened yet, and she could change it, whatever it was. When she got there Bo was laying on the blanket, but there was something under it. Ava walked over to Bo but she growled, letting her know this was real. Ava took a step back and grabbed Michael's arm never taking her eyes off Bo. Ava could feel her pain like it was her own, tears began to involuntarily run down her face as Michael said Lobo passed away. Bo found her on our morning run he continued to tell her. She wouldn't let me touch her at first, so I had to raise my voice. I carried Lobo here and wrapped her in a blanket from my pack. Bo’s been laying there ever since, so I've been digging. Ava tried to approach Bo again making her show her teeth in a threatening manner, causing Michael to grab her hand and say, when and only when Bo is ready, we will bury her kin. Michael’s words were strong, but Ava saw a tear slip out, wondering if he was thinking of his own mother. Ava waited with Michael as he dug the grave and started picking flowers to make a wreath.
Bo just whined and cried her heart out laying on top of her grandmother. When Michael was done, he sat next to Ava. The sun was high and hot, but Michael never moved, giving Bo the time she needed to grieve. Ava went to the Manor and informed Ida Lobo has passed away. Ida a smart cookie seemed to know this was going to happen, went into her room and came out with a piece of fence post with a board across the middle that said, Here lies Lobo, May her soul run free. 

Ava thanked Ida and kissed her cheek grabbing a sandwich for Michael and filled a thermos with tea. Ida cut up a steak for Bo, and a bottle of water before helping Ava pack it in a shoulder bag, so she could carry the grave marker easier.
As she approached, Michael turned and got up to help lighten her load. As he read what the marker said Michael commented, gran doesn't miss a thing. Ava replied yeah, I'm thankful to have her. Michael laid the grave marker on the ground next to Ava’s wreath and sat back down with her and ate lunch. Michael laid Bo's food next to him on the ground, he was not going to invade Bo's space right now. He figured she would eat when she is ready, and only she knew when that was. Ava knew Bo and Michael had a special bond, and followed Michael's lead, she was not going to interfere, if she could help it.
Nightfall came, sun setting behind the tree line when Bo finally stood up and howled. She howled for so long, it was pitch black out by the time she stopped. Ava didn’t know how she knew what Bo was saying, but she understood this was Bo’s way of saying goodbye. Michael opened his bag and pulled out a lantern, set it on the ground and waited for Bo to come over to him. She did eventually, and Michael hugged her close and patted her until she finally decided to eat her steak. Michael waited for her to eat and gave her water out of the bottle, being his natural selfless, kindhearted self. When Bo looked at him and turned her head, Michael stood up and picked up Lobo, jumped into the grave and laid her inside keeping her wrapped in the blanket. As he climbed out, he turned to Bo and said ready girl before he grabbed his shovel, and started to fill in the grave. Bo stood facing away from the grave and she started flinging dirt behind her, as she dug into the pile. Ava stuck the grave marker in the ground, as the hole filled up, so it would stand straight. When they threw the last of the dirt, Ava placed the wreath over the post, so it hung on the sign. Michael took Ava's hand and they bowed their heads together. Ava knew their fathers would have wanted one of their most loyal companions buried here. She was glad Michael thought so too.
Ava heard a flutter of wings and that creepy cawing from that raven, wondering if she was really hearing it, or if it was her curse messing with her. She wouldn’t be surprised so Ava lifted her head, just in time to see Bo jump up in the air, and pick that fuck’n bird right out of the sky. She didn't cry as the bird got ripped to shreds as Bo shook the damn thing apart, tossing feathers everywhere. Michael just said good girl, make sure it's dead. Ava felt bad that she wished this bird ill, but she wasn't sad, it tortured her enough. She asked Michael if she was a bad person, but he said no love, the person who sent it is.
Bo walked over to them for confirmation she did good, Ava bent down and rubbed her head and pulled a feather off that was stuck to her lip. Ava was so relieved to touch Bo, she hated not being able to comfort her all day, but she also respected Bo and Michael’s relationship. She wondered if her father felt this way with Lobo and Brian. As they walked back holding hands, Bo stayed right beside Michael all the way to the Manor. When they entered the kitchen, dinner was on the stove. Ida and Ann-Marie were knitting and talking about Louisiana. Ida had asked, what's left on the property? Ann-Marie said, I guess a couple fence post. I'll have to build all over again.
Michael helped himself to Ann-Maries famous gumbo, as he ate we caught him moaning along with every bite. Which of course made everyone laugh, and Ann-Marie was proud her gumbo could cause so much pleasure. Ava wasn’t going to burst her bubble and tell her that he did that with most foods. Instead Ava asked Ann-Marie, how many times they’ve had to rebuild your home, shouldn't you move permanently? Ann-Marie shook her head and said, my house has caught fire or been completely destroyed four times. Two of course was before my time. I was told a hurricane demolished our house in 1812, then again our house was burned down in January 1815. This was the time we were at war with the British army. You must have studied the Louisiana Purchase Ann Marie asked, making sure they knew their history. Ava replied, we did ma’am. That must have been hard for your family, being that was only three years apart Ava asked. I'm sure it was, Ann-Marie replied. Michael chimed in and said, well that’s three. We know about the last storm, but what's the fourth. Ann-Marie dropped her head and said, my house was burned down, funny thing it was storming that night too.
Michael always needing information asked, what happened? Ida grabbed her sister’s hand in support and waited for Ann-Marie to speak. Ava loved her southern drawl but hated to hear her speak about bad times, but Michael was a dog sniffing out a bone, he had to keep digging. It was cold, rain coming down pretty hard, when it turned to snow. It got heavy and you can imagine, my roof caved in. The whole thing was a surprise because it rarely snows back home. Ava was trying very hard to listen without getting dragged into a vision, so she sat on the counter top and ate her gumbo which was delicious and just listened. Everyone scrambled to stop more damage from happening. By the time we got back to the kitchen Emma was gone and my entire back wall of my house was on fire. We rushed to put it out, but it was so windy and the snow was doing nothing to help our cause. Well except to make it so smoky the fire crews couldn't see the road to get in to help us. By morning the fire marshal called it arson and because Emma ran away, she got blamed. The insurance company wouldn't cover the damage, even thou the roof went first from the snow and wind. I still haven't been able to find Emma, I never pressed charges. Ava slid off the counter emotionally exhausted, and thanked the ladies for dinner, leaving them talking.

After a very quick unsatisfying shower Ava looked herself over in the mirror once she was dressed, noticing the the lines deepening on her face. Disgusted by her appearance she headed back to her bedroom in the tower, scratching her thumb thankful it was almost completely healed. She always hated this part of an injury and never understood the itchy part, but she put it aside, when she found Bo and Michael. They were asleep on top of the covers together in bed, Michael’s hand resting on Bo’s head on his chest. Ava pulled off Michael’s house shoes and socks, rubbed Bo's ears when she opened her eyes to see who’s disturbing them, and went to sleep herself.
Bo woke Ava up early again, so she took her outside to pee, sitting in her usual spot on the porch. Ava found Bo cute and annoying, most of the time she was Michael’s pal, but middle of the night pee trips she didn’t have a problem waking her. Where’s the justice, Ava joked with herself unprepared for how cool the air was? Michael gets the perks and she gets the mess, figures the story of her life?
Ava woke laying on the porch swing, being shaken awake by Ann-Marie. Bo was growling making Ava sit up confused, pushing her arms back through the sleeves of her nightshirt remembering she was cold attempting to warm herself, embarrassed that she had fallen back to sleep. Ava pet Bo and she stopped growling and laid down at her feet. Ann-Marie sat next to Ava and said sorry dearest, I didn't want you to get eaten alive by mosquito's. Ava asked the obvious question, what time is it? Ann-Marie replied, four am with a smile. Oh was all Ava said concerned she’d worry Michael with her absence. She was about to excuse herself and go in the house, while she could still fall back to sleep, when Ann-Marie said I'm truly sorry Dearest one. That's it, no explanation but I’m sorry, so Ava asked what for? Ann-Marie turned to look at Ava and said simply, for Emma.
Ava didn't respond, so Ann-Marie kept talking. When I first received Emma, she was so sweet and innocent, but also withdrawn and emotionally damaged. I had to keep trying to pull her out of her comfort zone. I always had people at the house, all kinds to try and spark an interest, but Emma kept to herself. I tried all sorts of things, school activities, family outings, even trying singular focused things like horseback riding and chemistry. Nothing, I mean nothing seemed to help. As she got older, she would disappear for hours, sometimes days on end making me worry myself sick until she would return. I eventually got angry and we would end up arguing like a mother and daughter do from time to time, but she would run off again, starting the cycle again.
By the time she was fifteen, she ended up pregnant, but the baby never took a breath. Emma went mad with grief and would wonder aimlessly looking for answers. She turned sixteen and started to ask questions about the family who abandoned her. I of course, couldn't tell her were anyone was, but told her that her mother was already gone, and her father was ill and dying of old age. She was furious with me and I hate to admit it, but she hit me repeatedly. I didn't fight back, I knew what was happening. After losing her child, she was reaching out for some reason why, and maybe some closure and security. Maybe she thought genetics was to blame, I'll never know. I wrote to your granddad every week. I never lied or sugar coated anything. He was the one paying the bills and he hoped that if I didn't have to stress about money, I could relax and dote on his beloved daughter.
Emma became obsessed with finding information about her family. She started in our local library and found names of others that lived in the area. She eventually found a connection to France and Europe and seemed to be passionate about something for the first time. I wasn't going to tell her she was looking in reverse, at least she had a purpose. Your granddad paid for her trip when she was seventeen, and allowed her to go to France, Scotland and even Canada. I guess he decided he wouldn't be able to stop her, but at least he could track her by booking tickets and hotels. I received a couple of letters the year she was away. At first she sounded excited to be in a new city. She researched your family tree and wrote to me about walking in their shoes, getting to see things and go places they themselves went. But towards the end of her trip, her letters sounded more and more depressing. Her last letter arrived telling me her search lead back home to Louisiana and she was on her way.
It was only weeks till her eighteenth birthday and I was trying to plan a party for her, but she wanted nothing to do with it, she changed, seemed different. So instead of pushing, I baked a cake, we had some family and friends over and that's when the roof caved in. Ava looked up and saw Michael standing in the doorway to the Manor. Ava wondered if Emma saw the house was unsafe, and that's why she didn't want to have the party, feeling people would think she crazy if she told. Eventually she noticed Ann-Marie staring when she heard Michael clear is throat. Not really knowing how to respond Ava spoke from the heart, I don't blame you for any of this. The fault lies with granddad, if he would have kept her here, maybe she could have developed naturally, with people who understood her better. No offence, Ava added as an afterthought seeing Ann Marie's face. She nodded and said none taken. I myself asked your granddad that same question before he died, and he maintains that he didn't know she could see, even in a mild form such as hers. By the time she turned eighteen, it was too late to do anything. Her anger ran to deep, all she had left was hate in her heart.
I never found out how she learned about Charles, and I'm truly sorry for what she's done to you. I hope and pray you don't hold anger like that in your heart dearest one? Ava stood up and thanked her for keeping her company and saving her from bugs. Grabbing Michael's hand Ava turned back towards Ann-Marie and said, don't worry, I have Michael and he only fills my heart with love. They smiled at each other with a nod before Ava followed Michael back to bed.
Michael was still in bed when Ava woke up hours later. She found it odd to wake up on her own without her aunt Emma tormenting her. Ava kissed Michael awake and said, it's raining, are we staying in today or you planning on running. Michael smiled and said, I can play hooky today, what's on your mind. She got up and went to the window, trying to get her thoughts in order. If she stayed in bed with Michael, they’d be there all day. Putting her concerns in order, Brian was the most pressing. She kept trying to see him, but was getting blocked. She explained this to Michael and of course he had an answer. I've been reading my father’s journals and in one he explains the rules and perks of being a Warrior. One is the ability to block your Warrior, the minute my father talked to Emma, you can no longer see him. It's some unspoken perk Michael explained seeing Ava’s confused expression. Michael got out of bed and kissed her before he said, this means Emma cannot see me. Leave it to my dad to find a loophole though Michael smiled, or it could be because he is the one contacting you, and not the other way around. From what I read it’s a defensive gift, so anyone trying to see your defensive players, can't. Ava loved this, she could keep Michael hidden and safe from harm.
Michael knew exactly what she was thinking and said No, I'm not going anywhere, your father already used that move. Ava felt defeated, how was she supposed to protect Michael and Ida if there not willing to leave. Ava was beginning to understand her father’s worries a little better and thought, maybe she could draw Emma out. Michael again said, and you’re not leaving me behind. Now stop trying to separate this perfect union and make me some breakfast, Michael said trying to change her train of thought. Ava smiled and said, this is the twenty first century you're supposed to make me breakfast. Michael grabbed Ava and kissed her. Bo started to jump around thinking they were playing. They both grabbed Bo at the same time, she yelped, spun around and barked. Her head was down on the bed and her butt was in the air, like she was daring one of them to move. Michael moved first grabbing the blanket and yanking it from under Bo. She barked and grabbed the blanket, indicating the games were on.
By the time Bo was done wrestling with Michael the room was destroyed. The chair was turned over, lamps knocked down and the blanket torn down the middle from an intense bout of tug of war. Ava couldn't think of a better start to a rainy day. She asked Michael after breakfast for his dad's trigger, she wanted to check in on him and see if he left any messages. Ava didn't take the compact from Michael, she just focused on it and she was in.
This time Ava saw a lit, small gross looking room behind Brain. He looked so tired, and some expression she couldn't place. She listened closely and told Michael what she was seeing. Ava kept watching Brain as he look side to side, like he was being cautious before he whispered into the mirror. Baby girl, tell Michael plan B, Emma is coming. She blew up that ball as we passed weeks ago. She killed your mothers, she is pure evil. Watch for that raven, it is her eyes. She is waiting on it to come back, destroy it. By me some time. I love you both, shit I’ve got to go.
Ava knew the minute he said baby girl she was in trouble. She knew Brain was feeling paternal and she knew she had to make everyone leave, but how. Ava turned to speak to Michael but never made it. Instead she ran to the bathroom and threw up. Michael followed and held her hair. Ava turned around and sat on the floor, the tiles were cold in this bathroom, but she didn't care. Instead she cried. Michael kept asking her what's wrong, but she didn't know and at this point didn't care. Michael let Ava have her cry, before carrying her to the kitchen and got her some tea and crackers. He’d use any excuse to keep Ava in his arms, it always made him feel calm when she was close.
Ida and Ann-Marie came in the kitchen carrying vegetables from the garden, it was getting cold at night so these were the last batch of the year. Ida informed them tonight there going vegan, salads and veggies with an assortment of nuts. Ann-Marie looked at Ava and asked you okay dearest, you’re not getting sick are you.
Michael told them Brian’s warning, distracting them from Ava, who hated the fuss. Ann-Marie started to cry in disbelief. Ida set the veggies in the sink and walked over and hugged her sister. Ann-Marie kept saying I'm so sorry, what are we going to do? Michael suggested the sisters go to Louisiana and see what's happening there, but Ida and Ann-Marie said at the same time, NO. Michael tried pleading with them, but they were not going to hear another word about it. Ava asked why, why do you want to stay here, you know the damage she can cause? Ann-Marie replied, I need answers, she ran from me, hurt me and I need to know why. I can’t believe she would kill her own family, and betray her Warrior.
Michael began to protest, but Ava couldn't see if it mattered much either way. So she told Michael for now let them stay. Ava looked at the woman and said, this is my house, I love you both dearly, so when it comes time and I ask you to leave, you will do what I ask. Both ladies looked at each other, Ava could kind of get a feel for their silent eye communication, but didn't rat them out to Michael. He was distracted by a bat, flapping around looking for an exit by the back door.
Ava couldn't see Bo anywhere, and got up and looked around, she was not in the Manor. Ava whispered her name when she closed her eyes, so not to upset Michael, hoping she would see her. There she was sitting on Lobo's grave alone. Ava couldn’t help be thrilled at how easy it was to find Bo, which was new. She walked out to her, leaving the granny brigade to make useless plans, while Michael trapped the bat. Ava didn't touch Bo, but sat down beside her. On top of the grave was a big bone, just resting on the mound. Ava wiped the tears from her eye, knowing Bo was leaving it there for her. She didn't know dogs would care this much, and leave a gift, how human of her. Ava slowly wrapped her arm around Bo's shoulder like Michael would, but didn't pull her or move anything else, she seemed okay with that.
Minutes passed and they both jumped when Michael came into view yelling at the both of them. How many times do I have to ask you not to leave me behind? Did you not get my father’s warning? Ava held up her hand to halt his lecture, I'm sorry Michael, I couldn't find Bo. When I saw her here, I decided she needed a friend. Ava watched Michael calm down to a gentle roar and say, the next time either of my ladies decide to leave, please give a guy a heads up. Ava listened to his words and was mildly surprised to find he was right, with Brain gone he is the only Warrior. She never thought about that, because it was always so, but now things have changed. Ava stood up and kissed Michael, apologizing again for leaving again, while Bo came over to Michael and jumped up and licked his face. Michael laughed and said okay forgiven, now let’s go back to the safety of our home.
After dinner that night Ava took Bo outside. She sat in her usual spot on the porch swing feeling off. Her emotions felt out of her control, almost foreign as she blankly stared out into the yard. She was thinking about Emma and everything everyone told her about her aunt. Ava felt sorry for her, the only family she had, abandoned her emotionally. Ava kind of knew how that felt, except hers was taken from her. She couldn't help but feel if they only loved Emma, just let her be a loner. At least then, she would have had answers to her questions, she would have had her family to help her. Why didn't they see this? Now neither of them had any family left, but each other. Ava hated her aunt for everything she did to her and her family, but one small part of her felt pity, but not enough to forgive her. Ava knew Brain was concerned and she knew he wanted them to leave, to run, but Ava couldn't leave this Manor. Not again, this is where her whole life was changed. This was the place to finish this once and for all, right where it started. Either way, one of them was going to the crypt, if they couldn’t agree to disagree.
Ava sat still wishing her sight would show her something useful. Lately her senses were all out of whack, to the point where she couldn't even predict the weather correctly. The longer Ava sat still the more useless she felt, like a sitting target. She thought back to the morning after her ascend, she felt so strong and powerful then. Now nothing, what could have changed, is she like Emma now. Ava felt a thumb rub her cheek, and looked up and saw Michael standing in front of her, concern all over his face. She could tell he was trying to hide it behind a smile, but she wasn't going to say anything. He sat down beside her and just held her hand. Ava knew he was thinking he wished she would talk to him, but she couldn't. She didn't know what was wrong to even begin to explain. Admitting defeat tonight Ava called Bo to the porch, and the three of them headed to bed.
After another a long distracting bout of love making with Michael, Ava broke down and told him she couldn't see anything anymore. Just random acts of finding him or Bo, but nothing useful. She asked him, do you think I'm ending up like Emma. The minute she said her aunt’s name, Michael’s neutral mood went dark. He seemed a little angry and said, you’re nothing like that bitch. She watched Michael try and calm himself, so she waited by playing with Bo's tail, giving him time to regroup. Michael’s next words were calm and sweet as he said, Ava love, I don't presume to know what you’re feeling. I do know, since we got here, you have been avoiding everything and anything that has to do with your family. No, no don't give me that look he said, just listen please. I wasn't talking about us, or the bitty’s down stairs. I was referring to your family history. Babe you can't change the future or see it for that matter, unless you’re willing to know the past. If not, he said grinning we could always burn the past to the ground and start over. Ava couldn't help but smile at her crazy, sexy man, and replied but I love this house. It’s perfect, just needs some updating like TV and internet and maybe a camera system that has monitors in our room instead of in that cave.
Michael said oh yeah, thanks for reminding me. I hated that feeling someone is in the cave watching us. In the morning I'll dismantle it and move it up here. Also do you mind if I reverse that lock on the cave door that leads into the Manor. I don't see why it locks from the outside, it seems wrong, right. Maybe some lighting or something so it's not so dark in the tunnel. Ava smiled and said, that's fine with me I never want to go there again. There you go again love, running, always running from your fears. Face them head on, I'm with you always. I will protect you, trust in me Ava, I don't like you afraid all the time. Ava hated being weak, but she felt to emotional now to take on anymore, but it looks like she has no choice. She knew Michael was only telling her the truth. So she nodded and said, Michael I never doubt you, NEVER. When he gave her that reassuring smile, she turned off the light and went to sleep ending the conversation for the night.

Aught! I can't keep getting sick like this, Ava groaned sitting in her tile bathroom floor again, fighting the urge to throw up. She hoped she's not getting sick, they had too much on their plate already. She kept internally yelling at herself for being weak and took a shower. The sun barely rising outside, birds singing as she got dressed. Ava was in no mood to be cheered up by the local wildlife, stressing about the task at hand to go in the study. Ava felt serious anxiety over not being able to see, for not being useful and now she's getting fat. Ava had enough of all of this, her pants barely buttoning was the last straw. Stress was obviously not a good look on her. She had enough of making Michael and Bo worry about her, and today she was going to rectify some of their worries while they were out training. At the study door, Ava opened it slow, stepping inside. Nothing happened, Wow Ava thought, I really have been doing damage I see nothing. She walked around the room looking at every book, journal or plaque on the walls. She ended up at the desk and sat in the big leather chair. Nothing again, huh, was all Ava had to say. She looked through the desk drawers for the first time and found the usual office supplies, and a huge manila envelope.
She emptied the contents on the desk top and touched them, nothing happened. Ava opened up the papers and saw the deed to this Manor, made out in Michael’s name, with her father’s signature transferring ownership, dating back thirteen years. She kept reading and found they owned eighty acres too. There seem to be some sort of map of NH. Her father must have highlighted her domain for her, showing she owned land all the way into Canada and Vermont. No wonder we could get lost here, no one was allowed to build.
She pulled out another plain envelope, this one was heavy. As Ava opened it up, she found a bunch of bank books. One by one, she opened them and laid them out in front of her. Every bank, twelve in all, had hundreds of millions of dollars in them. Ava sat back, no wonder mom baked for the needy. Ava read one bank account number and recognized it. This one is attached to my credit card mom gave me, well my surrogate mom. But even that didn’t have her name on it. Why is everything in Michael’s name?
She picked up the envelope and found an older looking bank book tucked inside. Ava opened it and it said Brain Wakefield, Ava was curious and opened to the amount, fifteen million dollars. Ava could not wrap her mind around this kind of money. She opened another drawer and found a ledger, it was Brains. She saw he gave there surrogates mothers five thousand dollars a month, she also saw he paid them each a million dollars to disappear. So Brain has been using his own money to care for Michael and me. Ava kept reading. Ava clothes and shoes, Ava dentist bill, Ava doctor, on and on. There was even a spot where he logged all her activities.
$250,000 - Bought Mystic Pines riding stable. Ava remembered she use to go there a lot as a kid.
$5000 - Ava Zoology classes
$11,500 - Donation to keep Ava's dolphin friend
$1300 - Trip to New York Broadway
$2600 - Save the whales
$2600 - Save the tigers
$1800 - Animal care, domestic, farm animals
$250 – Blue’s concert
$99 - Dance lessons
$1087 - Camera and developing class

$1500- recurring donation to food bank and shelter, noticing in the margin a list of names of vets and homeless he kept track of, because it said Ava encountered them in her travels.

The list went on for hundreds of pages. Ava felt herself crying again, he did love me. He could have robbed me blind, but he took care of me. He kept every aspect of my life hidden. No wonder he gave me my credit card before he left. Ava picked up the bank books and put them back into the drawer with the ledger. She walked over to the filing cabinet and opened it, empty. Where are the files? Ava thought back, that's right, my father burned it all. So Brain must have put these things back in the desk before he left. Ava laid on the leather couch, she hated it. It was one of those brown leather lawyer couches, stiff and uncomfortable, and it needed to go.
She laid there looking around from this point of view, and hated not seeing her granddads doing things like the first time she came in here. She didn't know, how to get it back. What did Michael say, face your fears? Ava got up and walked back to the desk and started clearing papers and letters away. Under a bunch of receipts about crops, Ava saw the recorder she pushed on her first time in here. So she decided to sit down and pushed play, it must be self-rewind because she heard her father again say her name.
Ava stayed sitting in the desk chair as the message stopped and the screaming began. She closed her eyes, hating this, but she had to deal with it. When the tape went silent, She opened her tear soaked eyes in surrender. All the men including her father were standing in front of her. Shocked and relieved, she took a deep cleansing breath and picked up the recorder. Opening the empty file cabinet Ava dropped it in and shut the door. She walked over to where she saw her dad place a journal and put her finger on one of the bindings. She was expecting to get a feel for its contents, but was completely taken by surprise as she got sucked into the past. Ava watched as her father paced the study. She turned around to look for a reason and saw Brain pacing as well. They seem to be in step with each other. Ida showed up at the door and said, it’s a girl, Charles. Just as fast as she appeared, she was gone. Ava observed Brain congratulate her father. They hugged and smiled. It seemed like a second passed then Ida was back, it’s a boy Brain, and again she left the room. The men again congratulated each other and poured a whiskey and had a cigar. Neither of the men smoked them, but left them burning in the ash tray.
Ava watched the scene dissolve and walked back to the couch. She laid down, happy to see a good memory in this place. Ava stayed quiet and watched the room glimmer and shine with the moving sun. She closed her eyes and must have fallen asleep because when she opened them again, Michael was sitting on the floor next to her. She couldn't see his face, so she reached out and tousled his hair. He turned and smiled and said, no note. Ava knew what this meant and apologized by telling him about her morning. She also told him, he was a Billionaire, and all he did was shrug like it wasn’t a big deal. Ava sat up and asked him, what’s the matter? It took him a couple minutes before he said, you ruined my morning. Ava waited for more but nothing came, so she just apologized again, which she seem to be doing a lot of lately. Michael turned around and slid a ring onto her ring finger, giving her a blur of emotion she couldn't quite pinpoint, wondering if she missed another holiday? It was a simple platinum band with a diamond on top, Ava looked up at Michael for an explanation. He said well at least you could say yes. Ava was confused, yes? Michael reading her said, Ava I'm tired of having to prove to you that I love you. By accepting my mother’s ring, you’re saying to me that you trust me, love me and always want to be with me.
Ava decided now was a time to try to joke and said, what now you ask the morning we find out your rich, so everyone can think I’m marring you for your money. Michael smiled and shook his head, and said did you forget I’ve always made money, and added, I guess I could marry someone who would love me for my money and not just my awesome good looks. Ava cracked up and slid on the floor beside him and said, a simple yes. Michael hugged her and pulled her onto his lap. She forgot all about the earlier problems and made love to Michael, there on the oak floor of her study, leaving no avenue untouched. Fuck she thought engulfed in pleasure, as he railed her from behind, her knees no longer sore because his intensity had her squished inside the cushion, lifting her ass high in the air.
At lunch, the ladies were buzzing, they must have been in on the plan, or up when Michael couldn't find her and ruined his surprise. Ava decided she has made up for that mistake already by skipping breakfast, and apologizing buy giving him appropriate compensation, swallowing her weight in semen. Besides he should know by now, with her nothing ever goes as planned. She ate a tuna sandwich, no crust and a dill pickle, which tasted amazing, at lightning speeds.
After lunch Michael apologized for having to leave for a bit on a run, when he returned he had a TV monitor with him and a bag full of equipment. Ava remembered what he was doing, the cameras. Ava's only job today was to watch the monitor and tell him when the camera was where she wanted it. All twelve cameras were positioned around the estate. Michael only gave her grief about one, the barn. Ava said, that's the start of our property and the only road, shouldn't we at least try and see if the camera would reach. He did as she asked and the wireless camera reached, but it was distorted by static. When he got back Ava asked, how do we have cameras but no internet? All he said was, we own a satellite. I found this in the desk in the cave, handing her a phone. Michael seemed to know what she was thinking and said, satellite phone. So that's why this stuff was in the cave, it was our dads, so they did like technology. Michael nodded along as she talked adding, they even updated the generator that runs the Manor. I think we should change to solar Ava added, let the sun power our home for free, that would save us money. Michael cracked up and said, are we penny pinching now, is there a financial crisis going on that I’m not aware of. No Ava said, feeling foolish, I don’t know what I was thinking. You were thinking about saving the planet again, one plug at a time Michael teased lovingly.
Ava’s focus turned towards the monitor, seeing gran and Ann-Marie came out and sit on the porch below. Looks like there fighting again by the pace their rocking chairs were moving, Ava said aloud. How can you tell Michael asked, there smiling? Ava walked over and opened the window in time to hear Ida say, Elvis Presley was the best artist of his time. Ann-Marie of course countered with Johnny Cash has him beat by a southern mile. Ava grinned at Michael and said see every time they fight, there both smiling, it seems to me we both missed out on a lot of good arguments.
They both went outside with Bo to join them, she was determined to get that rabbit today, nose firmly planted in the grass. Michael took out a bow and arrow and some blades with him. Ava watched Michael set up a target and began throwing the knives. She couldn’t take her eyes off his form as he let a blade fly through the air, it spun eight times before it slammed into the bull’s-eye. She watched as he stuck a knife in every number on the board, completely smitten by him. Ava heard whispering and turned to see the ladies watching Michael. Ava said, now, now ladies he's spoken for and flashed the ring. Both ladies started to laugh and went back to arguing about nonsense. Michael was all sweaty as he picked up the bow, placed an arrow and let it fly. Ava wanted very much to go over and jump him, but decided to wait. He has been putting off his training for her lately, so she decided to be accommodating, just this once.

 She searched for Bo from the porch and found her in the bushes, waiting for something. As Ava watched her, she started to wonder, could she go into Emma's head and find some useful information. Her grandfather did it, but only saw darkness. Her father Charles did it and saw flashes of what she sees, but he was her twin he had the advantage. Ava thought what if I could do it. She could see how patient Bo was waiting on that rabbit, was her training good enough to sit and be patient for me like Lobos was, and would Michael be patient enough to let me try. He has expressed time and time again in so many different ways that I never leave him alone. He loves me and is bound to protect me. It was odd how that worked out, be in love with the one man who was put on this earth just for me, a sworn Warrior. She loved Michael and was so happy when he turned out to be her soul mate. She loved that they were made for each other. Funny how fate or my father knew this would work out, and she didn't want to do anything that kept them apart. Ava was torn, no matter what happens someone was going to get hurt. How does she defend herself from Emma, when Brain is her Warrior? She had to find a way, there was no way in hell, Michael will fight his father and change who he is. Brain no doubt, would die before harming Michael. He tells me all the time, tell Michael I love him.
She must have been getting worked up because she noticed Michael standing in front of her. Ava touched his face and said, I'm sorry Warrior, I didn't mean to. Michael grabbed her hand and kissed it and said, tell me. Ava warned you’re not going to like it. Michael took a calming breath and simply said, tell me anyway. I want to try and go into Emma's head and see what I can see. Michael didn't even think about it and just said, no. Why, Ava asked gently. Michael didn't answer right away and Ava noticed the ladies had stopped talking, and were listening to their small discussion. Michael sat down on the stairs in deep thought, making Ava think he was going to agree and let her try. He turned to Ava and said, are you really trying to hurt me. Ava didn't understand but listened. Your grandfather tried and I ended up losing mine. Your father tries and I lose my mother. Now you want to try, what is this going to cost me. I'm running out of loved ones for your family’s quest to satisfy one ruthless Seer.
Ava dropped her head and started to cry. Michael laying this at her feet, showing her how much this family, her blood has hurt him. As Ava stewed in the pain his words dredged up, she got yanked hard. She saw Michael again holding a baby. There were no markings or blanket to show sex or a name. This baby was in all white. Then Ava was pulled again like a boomerang stopping in front of a burning pyre. Ava was out of breath when she was pulled to Brain, watching his soul being ripped apart. Ava watched in horror unable to do anything, afraid for him. She couldn't let go as the scene changed again to a woman crying over someone on the ground. She couldn't see who, just the crying.
When everything was calm and she wiped her tears off her cheek once her family came back into view. She turned to Michael, who had been staring at her and said, a baby, a pyre, your father’s soul and a devastated woman is our price. Without another word Ava got up, walked inside and went to her study and locked the door, only blaming herself for all his pain.
Ava looked through every drawer, every loose piece of paper. Once in a while, she would come across something interesting, like an old pocket watch that still kept the time. As Ava held it, she was transported to a time before the car. She seemed to be riding on a train. As Ava held it, she could hear a click clack sound as the train cars swayed as they moved forward. She watched a man open her pocket watch that must have been his, and look at the time. Ava watched him grab a suitcase off the bench and got a glimpse at the name A.R.N. Ava knew this name, she seen these initials before. This was Andrew Roland Nostradam, one of her great grandfathers. Ava felt as the train pulled into a station or in this case, a platform with a small building. No one else was there and she couldn't get off the train with him. Then she seemed to get it, sometimes you need to take a trip on your own. As the study came back into view, Ava felt sad, she hated these life lessons. It's not like she could argue or disagree, he was dead.
Ava put the watch back in its place in the drawer noticing only minutes has passed. She found a swan feather tied to a stone. Ava got this one without having to continue, and she placed it back where it was. Yeah, yeah she said to herself, sink or swim very funny. Ava shut the drawer, she could hear Bo whining at the study door. So she walked over and unlocked and opened it enough for her to sneak in, needing some actual living support.
Sitting back down at the desk, while Bo kept her feet warm from underneath it. She picked up the papers and started going through them. She found that she had fields that grew all sorts of crops, like corn, hemp, berries, pumpkins, and hay. Little notes in the margins that showed the places, and people they would donate them too. Local churches, food banks and stores, seemed her family was big on charity. I guess you could be with their kind of money. Ava thought maybe they could donate money anonymously to schools, and the towns, and churches in our area again, but Ava needed to talk to Michael, just not yet. Closing her eyes leaning back in her chair, rubbing her feet on Bo’s belly. She felt a little dizzy and light headed, thinking maybe she just needed to eat something to feel better. Leaving her study Bo at her heels, Ava went to the kitchen. No one was in here making that a first, being the heart to this home. Ava made a peanut butter sandwich and dropped Bo a small piece saying Oops, just in case someone sees.
Ava could hear Ida scolding her sister to stay out of it as she placed her napkin in the trash. She went out onto the porch intrigued to know why they weren’t getting along. Bo took this time to run by her to check if her bone was still where she left it, earlier. Ava sat on her swing waiting for the sisters to continue, but they stopped talking now. Michael seemed to be cleaning a couple guns on the stairs. He didn't look up as she passed leaving the impression he was still mad at her. He finished his gun assembly and glanced at Ava sitting in her spot. She gave him a little smile before her face went blank of emotion and her eyes glaze over leaving that far away stare that frightened him.
Ava knew she was on her porch as the family disappeared, but she didn’t know when. This was one of the downfalls to having an estate that never changes, you never know if you’re in the present. It helped this time because she knew she was having a vision because Michael wasn’t here. So Ava chanted, see what you’re supposed to see and get back to Michael. Slowly she watched a storm cross over the sky, bringing a threatening rumble of thunder that spread out over the clouds as it moved. A flash of lightning strikes near the old metal gate post sticking out of the ground by the porch. Ava watches the current arch across the old posts and set her porch on fire. Standing up in a panic, knowing this hadn’t happened yet, had Ava horrified to do something. She couldn’t lose this too, this house was all she had left. Jumping off the porch steps Ava hurriedly grabbed the polls, and began to try and pull them out. Ida yelled dearest what's wrong, should you be doing that? Ava replied through clenched teeth, I need to remove these two post. Why though dearest, Ann-Marie asks sounding concerned for Ava’s sanity. Ava not enjoying her tone yelled, why are you questioning me? I'm not dearest she replied, just curious is all. Ava grunted and tugged making her all sweaty. Michael must have seen enough because he walked over and pulled the post right out of the ground with ease. Ava still upset he was ignoring her, growled and said well I loosed it for you, and walked away. Ida looked between Ava and Michael and tapped Ann-Marie and said, lovers quarrel.
Ava sat down on her swing and said, it’s going to storm, both ladies looked at the sky. Ava rolled her eyes and said, lightning is going to hit and set our porch on fire. Ida just nodded, understanding her urgency, feeling the same way about this Manor as she did. Ann-Marie said, are you sure dearest, the sky looks pretty clear in both directions. Ava threw her hands in the air and walked off the porch and around the house saying sarcastically, of course it’s not, how stupid of me.
She  hated when someone had doubts, she doubted herself enough most days for all of them, they didn’t need to say it aloud. Remembering Ida saying Nell her donkey, had a house or something back here, she walked about fifty paces and found a small half barn type structure. Ava approached and found it disgusting and full of flies. Grabbing a rake she began to clean it out. It smelled pretty bad as she stripped the stall. When she was done she opened the only other stall door and found new shavings and hay. When she finished spreading out the shavings, she heard a snort and turned around and saw Nell looking at her from the outside. Ava stepped aside and put the rake away, picked up the bags and put them in the barrel inside the other door. As Ava exited, she saw Nell laying in the shavings and said, yeah enjoy the labors of my hard work. Nell’s enjoyment was intoxicating. Cleaning stalls always use to help clear her head when she was younger. She passed Michael on her way to the Manor, and only realized it when she felt his mood. There he was sitting on a stump, looking all yummy, carving branches into fine points with his knife, probably making arrows.
It was getting dark and she didn't want to fight with him. She has been on an emotional roller-coaster all day and was exhausted. Ava went to him and straddled his lap, wrapping her arms around him. He laid the stick at his feet, holstered his knife and held her back. Michael spoke first breaking the silence, I didn't understand what you said earlier. I would lose a baby, pyre, my dad’s soul and what was that last one, a woman crying. What does that mean, Please tell me Ava, I'm lost here? How do any of those things go together? Ava waited, she only told him in anger what she saw, how does she explain now? She rested her head on his shoulder and said softly. I saw a fire, like a cremation, I watched your dads soul start to split and I saw a woman laying over something crying, heart broken. Michael nodded and said, what about a baby. Ava dropped her head in her hands and stood up in retreat. He followed joining her saying please tell me, let’s work this out together. Ava started crying again, and thought would these tears ever stop. Looking at Michael in the eyes, she could see the worry he was hiding, she knew she owed him more than words. Numb and worn out Ava finally said, Michael since we found out someone was after me, I keep seeing you holding a child. I don't know when or with who, but I didn't want to tell you, it just slipped out. He wasn't upset, if anything he looked relieved. Well he said, I don't know what to say because we don't know when any of this happens. All we do know, is it's in the future. So for now, know I love you, and if I'm going to have a child it would only ever be with you. The rest of it, we will deal with it when it comes.
Ava looked up as it started to sprinkle, hiding her remaining tears. The sky darkened and the tree tops began swaying as the wind picked up. Ava smiled a little letting the wind blow away all the emotional baggage she was carrying. As they walked back to the manor, Michael grabbed Ava's hand and said, a big family would be nice, we could fill our big empty house. Ava smiled and said, shouldn’t we get married before we start thinking about filling this house. Married Michael said smirking, why didn’t I think of that, kissing his mother’s ring on her finger. That’s not what I meant and you know it Ava said, knowing him.
By the time they got back to the porch, the wind was really cranking, rain seemed to be coming from all directions. They entered into the hallway, securing the back door tightly so the wind wouldn’t rip it off. Shaking out their wet hair as they entered the kitchen, the ladies were eating soup and biscuits at the table. It smelt delicious, inviting, and warm, a true testament to their culinary skills. Ava picked up her bowl and began to ladle some soup, when a loud ear drum piercing crack scared her making her drop her bowl on the floor and cover her ears in shock and fear. The following sizzle was terrifying as it lingered in the space, feeling it run up her spine. Michael ran to the front porch and saw the ground smoking were the posts use to be. When he entered the kitchen, Ava was cleaning up her broken glass bowl. Normal thing to do after you break something, but Ava was falling apart about it, which made no sense at all, it was just a bowl. Ava love please calm down, it doesn’t matter. How can you say that Ava sobbed, look at this mess? Michael wasn’t too alarmed because she wasn’t hurt and the granny brigade seemed to be ignoring her irrational breakdown. Michael helped Ava quickly so he could take her to rest and console her in private. When they were done, he looked at his aunt who was still waiting and said, never doubt my Ava, you’ll lose every time.