Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The sun was blistering today. I picked the best time to travel out to the desert but it had to be done. Artefacts to collect and protect and all that. This one couldn’t stay out here for long. Can't have it fall into the wrong hands. And this artefact, it was something powerful than I have ever dealt with before. 

The map led me out here. A very old one that belonged to a powerful family whose name has been lost to history. No amount of research could uncover the truth. Yet there has to be something out there on this thing. The map however, I found that in a secret compartment in one of the many pieces of furniture I have collected over the years. Just the other day, pop, and secret map in hand.

Which is why it led me out here into the Sahara desert. Whoever placed it out here, why couldn’t it have been a nicer place like Italy or something. These winds are a bit much and I could do without all the sand. The scarf that covered my head and face blew as the wind whipped past me along with the loose fitting robe I wore for protection. That sand I was complaining about, yeah, right into my face. It’s a good thing that I decided to wear contacts and protective goggles. My glasses wouldn’t hold up out here. Though it begs the question. Where did that sudden burst of wind come from?

It was much stronger than the ones before. And it didn’t help that the horse that I rented for the day reared back, almost throwing me off. Well then. There is one conclusion from all of this. I’m in the right spot.

My suspicions were proven true when another gust of wind that was so strong it almost pushed me off of the horse's back happened. Yep, definitely the right spot, the magic around this area was strong. 

I dismounted from the mare and walked forward just a few steps when the horse took steps back away from where she stood. Nothing was here. At least not that humans could see. I lowered the goggles to go around my neck as I looked upon the sea of sand. It was time to work my magic.

The silver black and white gemmed fox ring that I wore on my left index finger glowed lightly and the sand swirled in different directions. I was trying to find the source of what was causing the wind and the location of the item. Finally the sand was pushed away from a spot right in front of me, revealing a staircase that went below the sand. I shouldn’t go down there but what choice did I have? I couldn’t leave whatever is out here for the taking.

Descending the stairs after securing my horse safely with magic, I created a small fire in my hand to see in the darkness. These wards were old. Very old. And crumbling. Something that could be easily broken. The writing on the wall was just as old. If I had the time I would write them down to study later, but there wasn’t any. I had to keep moving.

I reached the bottom of the stairs that led to an open chamber. There was something on the wall that I could see the shadow of, a torch. Excellent. That should give me more room for light at least. Once that was lit, the room glowed with the warm light. And it revealed what was in the singular chamber. Skeletons littered the floor of the chamber, all in a state that would appear that they were fighting each other. There were different eras of weaponry, armor and, if it was lucky to survive, clothing. Fighting over what was in the middle of the chamber. 

There was a box on a pedestal, humming with power. Whatever it was, I had to get it out of here. Unless I want others to end up like these poor fellows. What a shame that their greed got in the way of their lives. I need to move fast. I don’t like being down here in this now tomb. I removed the box quickly from the pedestal and ran up the stairs as fast as I could. I’ve seen enough horror and adventure movies to know not to stick around. Even though I couldn’t sense any spell that would reanimate the dead, I wasn’t taking any chances.

As quickly as I made it out of there, the sand recovered the stairs and everything was back to what it was before. Letting out a breath that I was holding out, I placed the box into the saddle bag that was hanging off the horse. 

“Hey there girl, sorry for making you deal with all of this. I promise when we get back to town, I’ll have your owner give you extra snacks.” I patted the horse's neck and she shook her head in excitement. I mounted up and steered her into the opposite direction. “Let’s get you home, hmm?” She reared back, almost knocking me off again. “Alright, alright. Let me put the goggles on before you start running off.” I laughed at the horse’s antics as the goggles were placed back over my eyes and ready to go. And besides, the faster the two of us get back to civilization the better.

I returned the horse to her proper owner and paid extra for her to get a couple more apples in her treats. Before I left the stable, I gave her one of them and thanked her for dealing with the bullshit out in the desert. I had a soft spot for animals and if they had to go through the things that I had to do, one might as well treat them with the utmost respect. But I couldn’t linger here. There was still work to be done.

I returned to the small room that I was renting out from this hole in the wall hostel where there was no one else around. It was the perfect place to do what I needed to do. I moved things around the room to give me more room to work in and placed the box in the middle of the room. I had to place a containment spell onto whatever was inside unless I wanted it to fall into the wrong hands and have them causing chaos to the poor humans. When I opened the box, I wasn’t expecting to see a single red gem nestled inside. This tiny thing held onto some immense power? A single ruby that was cut to be in the pearl facet? How can this be? Gem cutting of this calibre didn’t happen until the middle ages. If the tomb was as old as it appeared and those who had perished there an indication of how long it has been there, that would date it to the early Egyptians who developed gem cutting techniques. Unless it had something to do with the magic that infused it? Bah, I don’t have time to wonder about these things. I have to finish my job so I can get home.

I was about to do the containment spell when there was a ring from my cell phone. 

“Hello?” I answered after the second ring. 

“Thank bloody christ Eowyn! Listen, you need to get out of there! Fast!” It was one of my contacts that I had out here in Morocco, Steven.

“ I can’t, the containment spell…”

“Eowyn Theodora Whitmore, listen! Do it quickly and get out!” Shit, this is bad. “It’s Horvath.” 

Double shit. “Alright, thanks for the heads up.” I hung up and moved as fast as I could. 

Though something went wrong. Terribly wrong. It should have been any easy spell that I have done countless times before and yet I couldn’t pinpoint what I did exactly. The rush of energy that went through me had to be the reason that I missed a step. That and the fact that I was kind of rushing it. I needed to dismantle the spell and start over even though it is technically contained. But I don’t have time for that. I needed to run.

After gathering the essential items: passport, ids and so on, stuffing them into my messenger bag, I tried to exit through the door. When my hand touched the doorknob there was a knock that startled me.

“Miss, there seems to be an issue with your form of payment. We need you to come down to solve the issue.” It was one of the building employees. I let out a breath and relax slightly, only to remember that there shouldn’t be a problem. I paid in cash.

“I’m not decent at the moment.” Stall Eowyn, stall . “I’ll come down soon to fix it.”

I’m supposed to escort you down myself, miss.” Damn it all to hell.

“Very well. Just give me a few moments to become decent please.” Have to find another way out.

“Please hurry, miss.” Yeah, there was something off about all of this. Had to be Maxim Horvath. 

I examined the room quickly and the only other exit I could come up with was the window. What sucks is that I’m on the third floor. No choice though. Had to jump. I can soften the fall a little with a pile of sand though. Just have to form it discreetly. Moving the wind with magic a small pile was below the widow I was leaning out of.

There was a bang at the door, someone was trying to break it down. Good thing that the protection ward I placed on it was holding. For now. It will take them a minute if I don’t hurry. There is no time to waste, I have to jump. The door splintered open as I jumped out, landing on top of the sand.

It wasn’t comfortable by any means but it was the safest option. Though I was going to feel that later. Glancing upwards to the window for just a moment, I caught a glimpse of the man who I was warned to avoid. Most of his face was hidden in the shadow of the awning but I knew that it was him. Maxim Horvath. There was no time though to take note of anything else about him. I have to brush myself off and run.

Some would say I’m a coward for running away, but I say I’m being cautious. Afterall, Maxim Horvath is a deadly sorcerer and I know much about his skills in a fight. Don’t want to risk it in a place that I don’t know fully. Running through the crowded streets of this small city, jumping over some merchant tables and stands, trying my hardest to get as much distance from Horvath. I need to make it to the airport to fly me back to London. There had to be a flight that was available. Steven should be able to help in that department.

I slowed down a bit and stopped at a stand that was selling scarves, grabbing one quickly and leaving the money there. I wasn’t a thief though some people would like to say otherwise in the magical item category. That’s more of liberating the item and keeping it safe. 

I had to cover my hair up because it was the most recognizable feature. A blue teal ombre kind of stands out in a coed. Should have kept it natural before travelling but strawberry blonde is so boring.

As I was wrapping it around my head with one hand I made the call with the other. 

“Steven, good. I need you to find a flight out of here today and if you can, get my things and send them back to London.” I explained the second he answered.

“Are you safe?” Steven asked instead.

“I’ll be fine. Will you be able to…”

“I’ll get it done. I’ll send confirmation of the flight to your phone. And Eowyn?”

“Yes?” What could there possibly be to ask me at this moment?

“Stay safe.” Oh. He knew what I was about to face but I’ve gotten out of worse situations than this.

“I will. And thanks for the heads up.” I hung up and kept moving forward.

I don’t know how I got there but I ended up in an area that was devoid of people. It was a small plaza off of the main road. Strange that there was no one here being that it was mid day. Where the bloody hell was everyone?

Something was definitely off.

I turned quickly only to be pushed back by an invisible force into a wall. I should’ve never stopped moving.

“It’s rather rude to have to chase you down in a crowded area.” Shit. Shit. Shit. “Afterall, all I wanted to do was talk.”

“You have the wrong person.” I lied, covering up my accent the best I could. “I hope you find them though.”

The force pushed me further into the wall, making me choke a bit. “Oh, you’re exactly the person I’m looking for. You think covering up your hair and hiding your accent would solve your problems?” Horvath dusted off the lapel of his suit jacket. How he could be wearing a suit in this temperature is beyond me. Even my cargo pants, loose fitting shirt and light jacket was a lot for me. “Though blue is a fitting color for you.” A few steps more and I could fully see him. He seemed polite but underneath it all he was deadly. And I would be called a liar if I said that he wasn’t devilishly handsome. Damn it, why did he also have to have a beard too.

“Whatever it is you want, I don’t have it.” He was now in my space and I still couldn’t move.

“You’re a bad liar.” His jewelled cane came up under my chin, titling it up to look him in the eye. “Now, hand over the artefact and I’ll let you live.”

“Never.” The cut of the gem started to dig into my chin a bit harder.

“Very well.” He removed the cane from where it was, a short little reprieve. “I’m going to kill you now.” A very short one indeed.

Horvath stepped back and shot a single fire ball towards me. But I wasn’t going to go out like a bitch. I stared down the means of my death. Only it never reached me. It bounced of an invisible wall and extinguished itself in the air.

From what I could tell from his reaction he was shocked as well. He threw another one my way and the exact same thing happened.

“Interesting. Well then, I’ll just be bringing you along instead.” That’s not going to happen. Ever.

Whatever is happening to me, it seemed to undo the spell that was holding me to the wall. “I don’t think so.” 

He must have thought I was just some human who stumbled upon the artefact in my travels. Well Maxim Horvath, you’re about to find out how deadly I can be.

Very fascinating, this woman standing defiantly in front of me. Have I met my match? No, she was only assisted by the power of the gem. She’s no sorcerer. She’s nothing but a…

A plasma bolt flew past me in a split second. Well then. Perhaps there is more to her than meets the eye. I blocked the second and third one. Childish. 

Or maybe not.

I was so distracted by her measly attempts that when she rushed me, I was taken by surprise. But she wasn’t fast enough. Her hands gripped my cane as she tried to push me back and take it. Her black and white jewelled fox ring glowed brightly. “Ah, a little fox. You are clever and brave. Yet so naive.”

“You’re just underestimating me.” This woman is definitely bold.

Bold enough to duck down and try to take me out with a leg sweep. She failed miserably, but was that the goal in the end? I pushed her away, grabbing the scarf covering her head and a gust of wind she created made it cover my face. I was underestimating her. Oh, she was a delight. 

I got the scarf off quickly only to find her farther away from our scuffle, sand blowing in different directions. This was her plan all along hmmm? Creating a massive sandstorm?

“For the record sweetheart, this isn’t going to deter me.” I shouted towards her.

“I know, but it will slow you down.” She jumped out of the area through the wall of sand and disappeared. A very clever fox indeed.

And judging by her accent, she might be closer to home than I thought. It will be easy to track her down once I get out of this. That and everything she left behind in that dismal room.

Chapter Text

Home sweet home. Being in my shop/house was comforting. If I see the bright sun it would be too soon. Give me the overcast London afternoon any day. And I am in a city that I know like the back of my hand. Being tucked between other homes in the city would do that. The sound of the cars and bustle outside were soothing.

But there was no time to rest for me. I have to figure out what the hell was wrong with me after leaving the desert. That sandstorm shouldn’t have been as big as it was. Whatever power rushed through me during the spell, it was there to stay. Everything was overcharged. Even the most basic of spells caused a lot of damage. And the containment spell I placed over the gem? It was unbreakable. Does it have anything to do with the power that is, I believe, melded with me? Is that why I still have it? Because it is a part of me now?

Maybe I should contact…

The bell on my door rang as someone entered the store.

“Eowyn.” A middle aged man came strolling in with a younger man behind him.

“Balthazar. Good to see you haven’t changed. And Dave, how are you?” I asked.

“Good actually. I, uhh, have a lecture over at the university.” Dave answered.

“And I thought it would be nice to come and support my apprentice in his endeavours.” Balthazar chimed in. 

That was a shock to hear. “You’re still apprenticing? I thought by now you would be good on your own.” 

“Well, not exactly. There’s still some things I haven’t mastered.” Dave scratched the back of his head in embarrassment. His actions knocked over one of the many pieces I had in the building. “Oh, sorry about that.”

“It’s alright. I placed more protection spells on everything since the last time you visited.” Which was a disaster. “But Balthazar, I’m glad you’re here. I was going to contact you about something.”

“Oh and what would that be?” I placed the gem, that I turned into a necklace, into his hand for examination. “Well then.”

“I botched the spell and now…”

“It’s connected to you.” My suspicions have been confirmed then. “And you can’t break it either.” Well shit. “You really did a number on it or I guess it did it to you. I can’t help you here. This is very old magic, older than me.”

“Great!” I ran my hand through my hair in exasperation. “Another problem on top of everything else.”

“What else is there?” I explained everything that happened with Horvath and I knew what he was going to say wasn’t going to be good. “You’re on his list now. Problem is, how high are you? And I don’t know if I’ll be around long enough to stop him from getting at you.”

“You have other duties than to watch over little old me. I’ll be fine. I thought you should know.” Even if Horvath came to me here, it would be very difficult. This is my home, my domain. I know everything about this place, about this city.

“Thanks for the heads up then. Whelp, Dave, you have a lecture to get to. Eowyn. Good luck and don’t die.” I smirked at that. Great words of encouragement there Balthazar.

“See ya later than Ms. Whitmore.” Oh Dave you darling.

“You can call me Eowyn.” He’s too polite to do that though. “Tell Veronica and Becky I said hello.”

Balthazar held the door open for the two of them to walk out. “Will do.” He gave me a two figure salute as a goodbye. 

He seemed more cheerful than when I met him as a child. I was happy for him to finally have some peace in his life. After everything, he deserves it. As for me, there will be no peace. I had some major research to do.

Nothing. Days of research on this damn thing and nothing. Shit! I played with the gem in my hand as it hangs around my neck, wondering if I’ll ever unlock all of its secrets. For now, I just have to keep it close for safety. Who knows what will happen if I leave it behind for a long time.

However, during my research, I did find other artefacts that needed retrieval before falling into the wrong hands. There was one in Italy that seemed like an easy grab. Have to do some research on it first and see if there are any events happening to get in close. There is something I want to try. As I was writing down the information for my next excursion, something felt off. Like something shouldn’t have been there. Or someone.

I got up quickly to turn and see no one there. Maybe it was just my nerves and lack of sleep from researching day and night. After I’m done here, I'll sleep the rest of the day.

“I must admit,” I turned fully and looked up to spy Maxim Horvath on the second story catwalk, “you are an avid collector of the occult. Though your organization needs some work.”

“How did you get past my spells?” The second floor was mostly open and the walls were lined with bookshelves. The catwalk allowed for someone to cross more easily than going around.

He made his way to the spiral staircase that connected the two floors. “You’re talented, I’ll give you that. It did take some time to get past them and obviously I didn’t get them all. Now finding you, that’s a different story.” Each heavy step he took down the stairs made me tense but I was waiting for him to reach a certain spot. “Eowyn Theodora Whitmore. Sorcerer of the 33th degree and known to others as the collector.”

“Aww, they gave me a nickname. How nice.” I absolutely hate it. I don’t collect, I preserve.

“I find it completely childish and diminishes your character.” Huh? Well, that wasn’t so bad. “After all, you’re more of a nuisance.” There it is. These are the insults I was expecting.

“Happy to be of service.” I bowed sarcastically as Horvath reached the bottom. He moved towards me as I straightened. “Tell me, did you enjoy your little storm I left?”

“As delightful as this conversation has been, perhaps we can skip to the chase. I want that gem.” He pointed that cane towards me, focusing around my neck. Well shit. Why didn’t I notice that my hair matched the color of the jewel on it? Oh…right. I was fighting for my life.

“Well, I can’t give it to you even if I could. Sorry about that. Perhaps you can find something else to entertain you.” Step forward. Just a little, come on.

“I see it around your pretty little neck. What’s stopping me from killing you and taking it?” He stopped just one step away from my trap. Damn it!

“Because one, you said back in Morocco that you wanted to take me instead of killing me. And two, you won't know what will happen if you do. Even I don’t.” How can I make him take that last step? “Not even Balthazar knew.”

“The great Balthazar Blake was here, hmmm? Can’t seem to keep his nose out of people’s business it seems.” That got him. I just need to push a little more.

“Actually, he’s a good friend. Could’ve used his help in a situation in New York City but it would seem he disappeared for ten years. Told me he was trapped in a vase all that time.” I taunted him.

“And what an unpleasant time it was. Dreadfully boring and having to deal with him all that time.” He scoffed, still not taking that step. Come on! “Oh, you thought I would fall for your trap? It was crudely set up and could be seen the second someone entered this place.” Rude but still, not good.

“Hmm? Then I’ll just…” I rushed behind the sales counter and moved the hidden ropes from the ceiling magically to wrap around Horvath’s body like snakes. Using one of them, I forced his cane from his hand to mine. “It seems you have underestimated me again, Maxim Horvath.”

“It would seem so, Ms. Eowyn Whitmore. Tell me, what do you plan on doing now?” He’s too calm. I don’t trust it at all.

“I’m going to take care of this,” I shook his cane in my hands to emphasize my point, “and hopefully Balthazar is still in the city.” I turned my back for just one moment. Big bloody mistake.

The coarse texture of the rope I used for my trap went around my throat, cutting off my air. How? I have his cane.

“From our last encounter, I decided that I should be prepared. Do you really think I could be caught like this so easily? I turned as best I could to see the rope around him was coiled at his feet. The cane I thought I had in my was in his again. An illusion. A fucking illusion. “The statement still stands. You are clever. Tell me Ms. Whitmore, do you know how long it will take for you to pass out from the lack of air?”

All I could do was gasp for air. No words would come out. Think, Eowyn. My eye caught the corner of one of the vintage tables behind Horvath and an idea popped into my head. I’m going to have to sacrifice it. It’s going to hurt later but I have no choice.

Casting the spell to crash it into Horvath’s back, hearing it splintered to pieces due to power burst, it broke his concentration on the rope. I could finally breathe again. Yet there was no time to waste. I need to make my way out into the city and lose him. There’s just no fighting him. It would be a losing game. 

Before he could get his bearing, I rushed to the front door making a new plan. My hand touched the door only to have a knife embedded into the wood near it. The bastard almost stabbed my hand with the many hunting knives I had in this place. Note to self, secure them better. That cane of his went around me and pulled me close to his body. Fucking shit!

“It would be a shame to kill such talent. Not many people can surprise me like that.” He was way too close for my liking but I would be lying to myself if I didn’t say his voice did something to me. I shouldn’t even entertain the idea of this with him threatening to kill me and all. 

“You keep saying that and yet here I am. Still alive.” I taunted him again. “And even if you do, you can’t get whatever magic is in it. It’s bound to me and the protection spell is unbreakable.” I tried to kick back but he dodged it easily and tightened his grip on me.

“Then I guess what I said in Morocco still stands as well. I’ll have to take you with me.” Oh, bloody hell no! I struggled even more, trying to conjure up a spell. I would have to sacrifice another one of my pieces. If only I had the willpower to do so. I wouldn’t have been hit with a spell that made me faint.

Ms. Eowyn Thoedora Whitmore. A lovely name for a hellcat like her. Her attempts to best me were amusing to say the least. But what she told me about the gem was true. I can’t access the magic within that gem. Whatever she did, it has changed the course of her life forever. 

Which is why Ms. Whitmore was sitting unconscious in the passenger seat of my car. There was no way I was going to let her slip through my fingers like that. An untapped power source that she couldn’t control had too many possibilities. If I can figure out how to access it, she will prove useful in the end.

And what I told her before is true. It would be a waste of talent to kill her. The way she fought, it was calculated. As if she saw every possible outcome with each step she took. It was her dedication to preserve her surroundings that got her in the end. Some kind of need to protect the items she collected. Whoever taught her must have instilled that in her. Though there is no doubt, her fighting skills come from somewhere else.

An interesting little thing she was. Filled with many surprises. One being that she was acquainted with Blake. Wonderful. After all these years, he’s still a pain. Best to lay low for now even if I loath it.

Besides, I have a guest to entertain now. It won’t be boring, that's for sure. Though I should let her rest as to give her the mental energy to banter with me later on.

Chapter Text

Those old movies I love watching always made waking up from a fainting spell so easy and graceful. Yeah, it was complete bullshit. The second my eyes opened, I rolled off of whatever I was laying on in a painful heap onto the floor. All I could do was groan as I rubbed the back of my head. Damn that hurts worse than the pile of sand did. Maybe I’m not meant for the silver screen.

Everything was blurry in front of me as my eyes tried to focus on my surroundings. Bullocks, my glasses were missing. That bastard must have taken them, that conniving son of a bit…oh. They were on the coffee table beside me. That was rather generous. Or maybe he wants me to see when he tries to kill me. As if I would stay a second longer wherever I was. Which seemed to be a well furnished living area. Everything in here seemed to be an antique of some kind, my inner scholar screaming as I saw the different era’s that were in here. But I can’t stay, I have to…

I felt an absence of weight on my hand as I took note of the rest of my surroundings looking for an exit. My ring was missing from my finger. I felt around my neck and so was the gem. That son of… “It’s good to see you finally awake sweetheart.” Bitch. That sauve, seductive voice spoke behind me. “Though I would assume you would be more graceful given your ability to fight.”

Maxim Horvath, what I am now considering the bane of my existence, was standing over me with that condescending smirk. Bastard. Although…no! I have to keep those thoughts away. The little growl that I did upon reaction to my thoughts encouraged him more. “What’s the matter little fox? Have you been caged?”

“Ohh! You tosser!” I rushed to stand only to trip on the rug. “I swear to Merlin that…”

“I knew the old man himself actually and let me tell you, he wouldn’t appreciate such language.” Arrgh! Ring or no ring, I am going to wipe that damn smirk off his face. 

I manged to stand in all of this and I made a beeline for that stupid cane of his. Horvath was quicker though. He moved slightly to the left and tripped me with the damn thing. I landed hard on the floor with my glasses askewed on my face. I could just feel him laughing at me even though it wasn’t audible. I turned over, my elbows propping me up, to look him in the eye. The jewel end was now under my chin tilting it up. “Maybe I was wrong. It’s your use of magic in a fight that makes you graceful.”

“Or maybe it’s your stupid rug. Where in the bloody hell am I?!” I demanded. 

“Temper Ms. Whitmore. It would be wise to curb it since you are a guest in my home.” Oh, so this is where the great Maxim Horvath lives. Good to know. “That and if you really wish to fight, you would lose in a second without magic.” He was so sure of himself. Well then.

“I wouldn’t say that, Mr. Horvath.” I threw that stupid title back at him. If there is one thing I dislike above all, it’s being called Ms. or some other dumb nickname. “Afterall, when one grows up on the streets of Paris, you pick up a few things.” I swatted the cane away from me and got to my feet quickly. My ring had to be on him somewhere along with the gem. There is no way he would let it out of his sight. It was most likely in his pants pocket. I feinted to the left and as he followed my movements, I struck on the right. My hand swiftly made it into his pocket and I felt my ring. I guessed correctly. Though being this close to him, it did something to me. My heartbeat sped up a bit and it wasn’t due to my pickpocketing. I couldn’t even focus on getting my ring on because of it. And that caused him to hit me with a force that knocked the wind out of me. Back on the floor it seems.

“You’re French then? Your accent would say otherwise.” Really?! 

“Oui j'ai été élevé en France.(yes I was raised in France) But I was born in Britain, you wanker. One can be left abandoned and alone anywhere. It did have its merits though.” I placed my fox ring on my left index finger, right where it belongs. “Pickpockets never forget their trade.”

“You little…” That was the first, and possibly not the last, time I have ever seen him angry. 

“Don’t worry, I’ll make sure to keep this place as it is. But we can avoid all of that if you hand over the gem and let me go on my merry way.”

As quickly his anger appeared, it was replaced with that smooth, calm and deadly demeanor. A small smile was on his face as well. “I must say, I am impressed and that is very hard to do. Most sorcerers would either be scared for their lives or dead by now. But you? What is it about you that makes you laugh in the face of danger?” Horvath didn’t attack me. He was planning something, he had to be.

“It’s not that I laugh at danger. I just have too much to live for to be taken out that easily.” I had to make a plan and fast. I looked around and saw that the fire in the fireplace was burning brightly. Along with the normal lighting in the room, it casted everything in warmth. Even Horvath. Which I’ll admit, made him look more welcoming, if I didn’t know what he was capable of. The fire would be the perfect defence but I didn’t want to destroy anything in here. I just couldn’t.

I took too long to make a decision for there was growling behind me that startled me. Multiple growls.

“If you think that I would let you plan some escape route, you’re wrong.” Three grey wolves surrounded me while the fourth went over to Horvath and sat at his feet. “One movement that I don’t like, they’ll attack.”

“Magic or real?” I asked immediately.

“What?” How could he be confused by the question?

“Magic or real you twit?! It’s not that hard of a question.” Maybe I shouldn’t be insulting the man for the growls intensified.

“Watch it, little fox. I only have so much patience.” His smooth voice was laced with the silent threat. Not a threat, a promise.

“Magic. Or. Real.” I repeated through clenched teeth, ignoring the danger I was in.

“They’re real, Ms. Whitmore. I don’t see how that changes anything.” He patted the head of the fourth wolf to prove it to me. “They are very well trained so I wouldn’t test them.” 

He was wrong. It changes everything. My bravado deflated to defeat. “What do you want with me?”

“Take a seat Ms. Whitmore.” What else could I do at this point? I listened and sat in one of the leather armchairs that was in front of the fireplace. If only I could plan faster I wouldn’t be in this mess in the first place.

Eowyn sat tensely across from me as my wolves laid by her feet. I questioned why she didn’t attack and asked if they were magic. What difference would it have made if they were? Would she have made her daring escape?

“Now then. Since I can’t kill you to get that power, it leaves us at an impasse. Perhaps we can come to a compromise.” I offered. One of the rare times that I do.

In response, Eowyn tucked her legs under her and was now sitting crossed-legged on the chair. How odd. Even with her being tense, she acts with this air of confidence and bravado to her. “I don’t make deals with Morganians. It’s why I steer clear of them as much as possible.”

“Maybe you should hear me out first. But first…” I pointed towards her hair to divert her attention and try to ease her somewhat. If she’s calmer then she'll be a little more understanding. “Your hair. Why blue?”

Without hesitation or change in demeanour, her response came with attitude. “Blue is one of my favourite colours. If you think to distract me then you’re dead wrong.” A smart one. “And I thought you were intelligent.” And mouthy.

I chuckled at her response, realising that another approach was going to be needed for her to listen to what I had to say. “It seems a bit darker than last time.” I held my cane up to let the gem shine in the fire light. “Almost like this shade.”

She laughed nervously at that. “What?! You can’t be serious? I just redid it that’s why its more vibrant.”

“If you say so little fox.” Good to see that she was more nervous about my observations than with the wolves.

“I am not little!” Oh, annoyed at the moniker, hmmm? “I’m a respectful 5’9”.” 

“Yet so much smaller than me.” I stood and walked over to prove my point. Being right at the edge of where her feet should be, I looked down at her, shadowing her. “Now, back to the original point of this conversation. Instead of me killing you, perhaps we can figure out how to separate you and that power you unwittingly got from each other.’

“Absolutely not!” She stood in that moment, almost knocking me back if it weren’t for the difference in build and the wolves reacted. I mentioned for them to be still. “There is no way in bloody hell I would ever even allow you the chance to steal it let alone work with you!”

“Wouldn’t you like to learn about this new power you carry?” I certainly do. “It could prove too volatile for you to handle. It would be safer with a teacher.”

“Ha! And you’re offering? Yeah, no thanks. I’ll take my chances. Besides, you don’t look like the teacher type.” How brave of her to stare me down in defiance. Yet something hidden in those grey blue said differently. Then that little mischievous smirk of hers got me. “Besides,” she patted my shoulder condescendingly, “if I needed help with this, I’ll call on Balthazar.”

“Bah. he was too focused on his own issues to even stay with you and figure it out. What a friend he was.” By putting distrust in her for my former best friend she will definitely…

“And why would he do that? Stay with me? I told him about you and then stated that I don’t need to be watched over. Besides, I'm a very competent sorcerer. I think I can handle you.” She looked down at the wolves near her feet. “These guys though, I could never hurt a single hair on their head.” She was even bold enough to pat one of their heads. “Who’s a good boy? You are.”

“Do not patronise them. It will not work.” The wolf Eowyn patted tail wagged a bit and leaned into her touch. 

“Aww. Would you rather come live with me instead?” Her hands went to hold his face. “I’ll give the best cuddles and treats.”

“Enough.” I whistle for them to leave. I will not have her distract them with that cute demeanour. All four left instantly. “They are not some house pets Ms. Whitmore. They won’t be swayed  by your charms.”

“Oh, I know. As you said, they attack on your word.” Oh, she’s mocking me now? Does she have a death wish? “But it’s nice to know that you think I could. Hmmm? This does remind me of something.”

“And what would that be?”

“A time when I was in Spain. On the rare occasion that I got caught liberating a piece, getting out proved to be a challenge and fun.” Was she having fun? Before she was all nerves. No, she has to be bluffing. “The only difference was being tied up.”

“I could change that if that is what you’re into.” The slight pink in her cheeks made me chuckle which in turn made her blush harder.

“Stop that!” She stomped her foot at my taunting. Getting annoyed are we?  What fun reactions could I elicit from her now?

Using my cane to push her back into the chair, I leaned over her, my shadow covering her form. That pink turned into a bright red though it was more from anger than embarrassment. When she swatted my cane away, all it did was humour me. So much that she got even angrier.

“Do you think I’m just going to sit here and be bullied by a…a…”

“A what Ms. Whitmore? Come now, I know you have a quick wit.” I must have done a number on her then. I really thought her responses were…

“A pompous bastard who thinks he can get away with anything because of his power when in fact he can’t stop one woman from messing up his plans. Face it. You’re just upset that I escaped you twice.”

Quick. “If I recall, you have only accomplished one escape. You are here after all.” Before she could retort, I grabbed her chin with my hand to make her look at me. “And who was the one that caught you, hmm?” She didn’t respond. “Oh come now Ms. Whitmore. Nothing to say? Tell me, why do you think you have escaped twice when that isn’t the truth.”

“Maybe because the second one hasn’t happened yet.” That was all she said before knocking back the chair in one swift motion with magic and her own force.

Looks like I’ll be pulling out all of my tricks tonight to get me out of this. I mean he did ask why I said twice. A demonstration is in order. 

With the force of magic and my own strength, I pushed back the chair I was sitting in and distracted him thoroughly to kick his cane out of his hand. It wouldn’t allow me a lot of time to move but it should be enough. I’m going to have to risk not knowing where the necklace was and what would happen to me if I didn’t have it on me. I have to get out of here and find my way back home.

Or maybe I can get it back.

Rolling away from where I fell back in the chair, I saw the silver chain hanging out of his suit pocket. If I can use a limited amount of magic, the better in this case. In a low crouch, the only spell I used was one to increase my speed. I rushed around the fallen chair, locking my arms around Horvath’s waist trying to knock him down. Instead, he grabbed my wrist and pulled me away. Which in the end helped me for he wasn’t fast enough to stop me from wrapping the chain around my fingers.

“If I had known you wanted to be caught, I would have obliged without you hurting yourself.” He teased me. I rolled my eyes at that which caused him to chuckle. He really found a way to get under my skin.

“You’re full of yourself, huh? Maybe instead of trying to get the best of me, you should be a bit more observant.” Before he could come up with a comeback, I broke free and tried to force him back. He didn’t budge and was able to get his cane back. whelp , it looks like it was time to leave. “Thank you for your hospitality.” He threw a plasma bolt my way as a distraction. Easy to catch and disperse. It was enough time though that allowed those wolves to return. “I think that it is time for me to make my leave.” The wolves advance on me slowly, forcing me to back up.

“And how will you achieve that Ms. Whitmore? There’s nowhere for you to go.”

“A little tip from a well seasoned pickpocket. There’s always a way out.” I jumped onto the windowsill behind me that I took note of when I first woke up. 

“So your best course of action is to run? Seems like that is all you do.” He didn’t seem angry but I know his demeanour is just a mask.

“Another tip, if you can’t win, run away to live another day. Oh, and make sure that if you have something important on you, keep it secure.” I dangled the necklace in front of me to make my point.

He patted the pocket that it was in out of reflex and scowled. “You…”

“Au revoir.” I blew a kiss at him, opened the window and fell back. Did I know I was on the second floor, no. was I prepared for it, absolutely. Gathering the dew drops magically to form a small pool to catch me. I might have been soaked from it, but it was a small price to pay to not get hurt. Getting to my feet quickly, I looked up to Horvath in the same position as in Morocco. This time though, I took a bow to be a show off and to be a slight prat because he did ruin my night making me think all sorts of things. Probably will get me in trouble later. He knows where I live after all.

A part of me feels as if he won’t come after me right away. And I have never been misled by my intuition. Besides, even if he does come after me, I’ll be far away in Italy for Carnevale. It was the perfect time to retrieve that magical artefact without being noticed.

It’s been a week since Ms. Whitmore made her escape from my estate. I was impressed that she used her ingenuity instead of relying solely on her magic. And I’ll never let her know that I allowed her to run off back to the city. I didn’t have to chase her if she was going to come to me in time.

I saw her notes on what she was looking for in Venice. And her flight information on her laptop that was behind that counter. It would seem that I need to move my plans up accordingly since it would be Carnevale. Good timing on her part. Security would be focused on the event and humans than her. She could slip in and out without anyone knowing.

That is, if I don’t find her first. I wonder how she’ll react this time? 

Chapter Text

It’s been a week since Ms. Whitmore made her escape from my estate. I was impressed that she used her ingenuity instead of relying solely on her magic. And I’ll never let her know that I allowed her to run off back to the city. I didn’t have to chase her if she was going to come to me in time.

I saw her notes on what she was looking for in Venice. And her flight information on her laptop that was behind that counter. It would seem that I need to move my plans up accordingly since it would be Carnevale. Good timing on her part. Security would be focused on the event and humans than her. She could slip in and out without anyone knowing.

That is, if I don’t find her first. I wonder how she’ll react this time? 

The air was a bit crisp tonight with no cloud in the sky, the moon was full and bright. If the lights of the celebration weren’t there, it would be easy to find anyone with just the moon. If you know who you are looking for and it makes it so much easier when that particular person has blue hair.

I waited in the shadows of the museum that was holding some sort of charity event and houses the item that Eowyn was on the hunt for. I have yet to see that blue hair though and the night isn’t getting any younger. Hmmmm? What is she planning?

The one thing that brought me out of my thoughts was a rush of blue that passed me. A woman with reddish blonde hair walked briskly past me in a sleeveless blue dress that would match a certain person's colour scheme. I followed behind closely to see if my suspicions were true. When she lifted her hand to apologise for running into someone, the glint from her fox proved that it was Eowyn.

I came up behind her and placed my hand on her shoulder to steer her away from the revelry that was happening. “Good evening Ms. Whitmore. Fancy seeing you here of all places.”

“Are you? Mr. Horvath I do believe you knew I was going to be here.” She stopped and turned to face me, her skirt mimicking water as it moved. Interesting. And how she wasn’t feeling a bit chill with the exposed shoulders is beyond me.

“In this exact place, no. That was pure coincidence, but maybe you should hide your travel plans from public view.” I leaned closer to her. “Also, I was going to be here to begin with. I just decided to see the festivities because it has been a long time since I have seen Venice.”

“So you followed me then. Got you.” She took a step back from me and gave a small bow. “Well, I would say it was a pleasure to see you again but that would be a lie. Anyways, I must be off and such. Have a fun Carnivale.” She was a terrible liar.

She tried to walk past me to rejoin the other humans but I wasn’t done speaking with her just yet. I grabbed her hand and pulled her deeper into the shadows. “You already have it, don’t you?”

She sighed and looked up at me with fire in her eyes. “Perhaps, what are you going to do about it?” That little challenge stirred something in me. Was it excitement or something else? Whatever it was left a small smirk on my face. 

“Nothing. I don’t care for small things like that. My main interest is you.” I tapped her shoulder with my cane, a soft blue glow emanated from it showing her that if she wanted to fight, I would. 

“I’m flattered. Truly I am, but you already know where this conversation will lead to. I say something to make you frustrated, you try to convince me to be studied by you then a magic fight happens…it’s the same. In reality, it might be best to just forget about me.” That will never happen. I backed her into the wall of the building, cornering her so she could escape so easily.

“That’s not what I want from you. It’s just an added bonus.” Her eyebrows furrowed in confusion. “Oh, come now. Do you really think I would spend all my time like this just to take something that I can’t use? That there might be something else?”

“What else would you want from me? It can’t be because you like me or anything, right?”

“How very wrong you are sweetheart.” Since her hand was still in mine, I brought it to my lips to kiss it.

“How very forward of you.” Not the reaction I was expecting. I thought I would see more of a blush or fluster. “If only…” 

“Only what, little fox?”

“If only she wasn’t such a coward.” Before I could even ask what the hell she was talking about, Eowyn grabbed the base of my cravat and pulled me down to meet her lips. This was definitely out of character for her, she would try to run away than this.

But there was nothing to complain about. My hand went from her hand to gripping her neck, pulling her closer to me. When I felt her touch against my face, something felt off. The cool metal of her ring shouldn’t be there. It should be on her left. I broke away from her to figure out what was going on if it weren’t for her finger against my mouth. 

“This was fun, but I have to go now. Don’t give Eowyn too much trouble.” And she was gone.

Except there was no smoke or anything. She was just gone. It was only when I looked down that I noticed a dark shape slithering away. I followed it through the crowd, hoping that I could catch whatever it was before it disappeared. When I couldn’t find it anymore, I just stood there thinking. At first, I thought that I saw Eowyn’s striking blue hair walk past me and she had a smug look on her face before disappearing. Turns out it was just an illusion on a random human. A very convincing one.

Impressive. But my dear Eowyn, I have something up my sleeve as well.

The past few days I made sure that my home was spelled from allowing anyone in without my permission. After what my reflection did in Venice, I couldn’t leave anything up to chance. I still haven’t figured out why it acted out the way it did. It’s a part of me and followed what I thought, but I was adamant that I wouldn’t tell him my attraction towards Maxim. It was too dangerous. And if that labels me a coward, so be it.

It was the middle of the night and I was snuggled deep in my blankets, warm and comfortable when I heard insistent banging at my front door. It was so loud that I thought someone might be in trouble. Without grabbing my glasses, I rushed down the spiral staircase to the door. Curse my good nature and sleep-addled brain.

The door was now open and I crossed the threshold only to be pushed up against the door frame. Even without my glasses I knew who it was. Maxim held me there like he did to my reflection, my heart beating so fast out of excitement. It gave me away instantly.

“I see then.” His examination of me to make sure I wasn’t my reflection made me blush. “Then the thing I encountered was a version of you. Though it called you a coward.”

“I guess it would. Though it has never acted on its own emotions before.” I said through heavy breaths.

“And what would ‘it’ be?” He smiled down at me knowing exactly what he was doing to me.

“My reflection.” Why did I answer him?! 

“Interesting.” He pulled me close to his body, my hands falling on the lapels of his suit and holding tight. He was missing that fur collar coat tonight. “It did start something that I intend to finish.”

“I never intended for you to find out.” HIs hand went under my chin to keep me looking up at him. 

His other arm went around my waist, my heart beating faster. There was no doubt that he didn’t notice. “Je suis content d'avoir découvert le petit renard.” (I am glad that I did find out, little fox.) Him speaking French, why did it do something to me? Why did it make me squirm? Why did he have this effect on me?

The small squeak that came out of me would have made him laugh if it wasn’t for the fact that he was preoccupied with devouring my lips, silencing what I was going to say. All of my thoughts seemed to disappear, my body responding to his touch.  The eclectic thrill that went up my spine allowed only one thought to come forward. The fact that we were still outside on my doorstep.

“Inside.” I said when we broke apart for a moment of air. That one word was enough for him to pick me up in his arms, my legs going around his waist and carried me across the threshold, ignoring the rest of my spells.

My arse met the coolness of the counter but was gone when Maxim’s body went between my legs. I do regret the shorts I was wearing but it quickly went away as those hands of his played with the waistband, touching my skin. The scratch of his beard against my neck as he bit me, the one hand trailing up my back under my tank top while the other one stayed at my waist, it was almost enough to make me forget that this was Maxim Horvath. That we were enemies in this world.

I pulled his hair slightly to break him away from me. “Hold up. You haven’t even bought me dinner first.” 

Grabbing my hand from his hair, he lightly kissed my knuckles before speaking. “You started this back in Venice sweetheart. Dinner is just going to have to wait.”

“But that really wasn’t me now was it.” I tried to pull my hand from his yet he held firm.

“Then enlighten me, if it was your reflection, isn’t that an extension of you?” If my body wasn’t already on fire, his intense stare would have made me combust.

“All it should really do is follow my thoughts and do what I tell it to.” There was no other way to explain it really.

“And you use it as a distraction. A very desirable distraction.” He went back to work at my neck, my hand still in his.

“Yes, but it was never meant to tell you those things.” I wasn’t going to tell him that I could feel every little thing that had happened between him and my reflection or the fact that its memories intertwine with mine. “Those thoughts were to remain private.”

“It called you a coward.” He pulled me forward and I could feel his arousal pressing against my thigh. “I say it acting out your hidden desires is a good thing. Then we wouldn;’t be here right now.”

“Yes, but I…” The hand that was gripping mine went to hold my chin tightly, stopping me from speaking.

“Just because we’re supposed to be enemies does not mean we can’t find common ground in some areas.” He kept my head from moving and making my focus to oly be on him.

“But it’s dangerous. You’re dangerous.”

His lips met mine again to shut me up. We barely broke apart when I heard him whisper against them, “Toi aussi mais je suis prêt à tâter ces eaux.” (So are you but I am willing to tet those waters.)

Well then.

He went back to work, silencing me further except for the small moans that he would elicit out of me with his touch. Perhaps Maxim is right. It was then that I noticed that this entire time I have been referring to him as Maxim and not Horvath. Shit, then I guess I was already gone.

He didn’t have to ask me where my bedroom was, which wasn’t shocking in the slightest. My home/shop wasn’t that big and it didn’t take much to figure things out. My back landed on the mattress hard. Sure it wasn’t the most comfortable but I’m not home long enough to really enjoy it. I’m kind of regretting it now.

“Oof. Could’ve been a bit more gentle there, eh?” I sat up with my elbows supporting me as I watched Maxim rolled up his sleeves. I didn’t see him remove his suit jacket in the short amount of time. Damn he moves fast.

“Oh please. I’ve seen you jump out of windows with less complaint.”

“To be fair, you don’t hear it.” The mattress dipped as he straddled me, pushing me down to lay on the bed, his hands beside my head. “Didn’t know you were tatted.”

“There are many things you don’t know about me.” He was quick with removing my shorts without even moving my body much. Talented. 

When his hands moved lower, there was an electric shock that went up my spine. It’s happened multiple times with him which I have never experienced before with my other partners.

A little gasp that escaped me made him pull away for a moment. “You alright there sweetheart?”

“I’m perfectly fine. Nothing to report.”

“Then I’ll give you something then.” Maxim removed himself off of me and stood at the end of the bed. He patted my knee and motioned me to move forward. Without even thinking about it, I moved to where he wanted me to be. “Good girl.” A shiver went through my whole body with the praise. “Now don’t move.”

For the first time in my adult life, I did what I was told, sitting there in my tank top and underwear. “Why am I not moving?”

“Because you left Venice without a proper farewell.” Really? That was it? “It was completely rude. And leaving things the way you did, well, there are some consequences to that.”

“Oh?” He was now kneeling in front of me, hands on my hips, pulling the elastic on my underwear. 

“Yes.” And they were gone in an instant. “Left me with a problem too.” 

“Then I should help you with that problem. I’m good at solving them.” What am I doing? After my last relationship, I swore off getting involved with other sorcerers. What makes him different that I would throw all caution to the wind?

“I think I’ll make you wait a bit. Afterall, it only seems fair.” When has a Morganian ever played fair?

I would have to think about that later. My body was electric when that mouth of his found my clit, making me grasp his head in shock. If this is what he meant by waiting God damn. 

He played with my sensitive folds, making me shudder. When he bit me, I reacted with a pull of his hair and that made him chuckle. “Seems I’ve found the right spot. Though I think those hands could be used for something else.” He removed himself from between my legs and straddled me once again. “May I?” He held both my hands and all I could do was nod. “I need to hear you say it.”

“Yes.” My voice was barely a whisper but that smile told me he heard it.

“I see you’re not armed.” He kissed the hand that my ring normally sat. “Good. That means I can have you all night.”

A silk tie magically appeared around my wrists and tightened slightly. “How…you don’t have…”

“You thought I wouldn’t have my own tricks? Tsk, tsk Eowyn.” He moved my bound hands above my head and held them there. “My naive little fox. There’s much you don’t know.”

“You will be surprised at what I do Maxim.” My boldness earned me another chuckle.

“Then why don’t you show me.” I was definitely in trouble now. At least this was the good kind.

Having her under me, squirming at my touch, watching the emotions play out on her face was worth it. I should leave her like this, waiting for her to beg me to fuck her. Hell, I could be a right bastard and make her wait like she did to me. Yet I believe I would get more satisfaction if I did get her off and then deny her what she wants. Unless she begs enough. And having her at my mercy did make things difficult.

Eowyn struggled a tad against my hold when I didn’t do anything for a moment. “Have I successfully tamed you sweetheart?”

“Not a chance.” Still bold even in the thick of it. I hope that never changes. “Besides, how do you know this isn’t where I want you to be?” She raised off the bed slightly and kissed the top of my nose to tease me. “Afterall, my reflection did call me a coward. Perhaps I’m planning to change that.”

“Dangerous words there, Eowyn.” My free hand travelled lower down her stomach and then her legs. How quickly she responded and moved. She was a;ready sensitive and wet from before. It made it all easier when I slipped a finger in her and heard her small moan. With another one, she was able to free her bound wrists from my hold and encircle them around my neck. She pulled the back of my hair as I continuously pumped my fingers in her, bringing her closer and closer to the edge.

When she climaxed it was all I needed to know that I could not just forget her. That even though we are supposed to be enemies, I couldn’t stay away. And I have a feeling that it is the same for Eowyn.

My hands were free now but there was little that I could actually do at this moment. Maxim had done a number on me though it would seem that he didn’t get off at all. The poor man must be suffering.

I shifted a bit to try and sit up except he wouldn’t allow it. I was pushed back down into the mattress with one hand on my shoulder. “What do you think you’re doing sweetheart?”

“It just seems wrong that you haven’t gotten some attention.” I tried to move again yet he was having none of that.

“I said I was going to make you wait didn’t I?” Did he? I couldn’t remember. I was too tired to even think. “And I can be a patient man.”

“Then be prepared for…” Yawn. “For me to be a pain then.”

“I can only imagine.” He did something that I would have never imagined. He kissed my brow. “Sleep now.”

“Or…what?” I teased through my yawns. “You’re going to spell me to sleep?”

“I don’t think I have to in this case.” He was right. In a few moments I was out.

Chapter Text

I didn’t want to move from this warm bed whatsoever, but I knew that I had work that needed to be done. And I have to figure out what I was going to do about Maxim. Horvath? Gah! This is insane. Maybe if I throw myself into my research and daily tasks I can deal with it all later.

When I moved about my living space, I noticed that Maxim wasn’t here. Not that I was surprised. He did show up in the middle of the night. There was no reason to stay.

After showering, eating and dressing in semi-professional clothing, I made my way down to the shop to open it. Even though my master left me this place and his wealth, I still had to keep up the front. And the work is a nice distraction from everything else. With every magical item I acquire, there’s just as many non magical pieces that I refurbish and restore. As much as I love to travel, being here, in my home is nice.

I spent the morning enjoying my usual cup of coffee up on the second level and filing away my books in the chaotic system I have created. I was so lost in it that I didn’t even hear the front door open. The only reason I knew is because he started to talk to me from the lower level.

“You actually organise up there? It looks as if you just tossed everything into a pile in the hope of finding what you're looking for.” That smooth voice made my whole body shiver from the memory of last night.

But I can’t get distracted. “Hey, don’t be taking the piss out of my system. The only person who needs to find stuff is me and no one else.” I stated as I leaned over the railing to look down at him. “Why are you even here to begin with?

“Why wouldn’t I be?” Answering a question with another question. Something I would do to gauge what type of person I’m talking to is. And to be annoying to those I don’t like.

“Used to one night stands to be honest and I’m usually the one to leave in the morning.” No sense in hiding it. 

“It is like I said before. I’m a very patient man or have you forgotten already?” His hand rested on the metal stair rail. “And I am not done with you yet.”

“Oohhh. Mysterious.” My sarcasm came out a little too much for I saw that hitch in his brow to indicate slight annoyance. Perhaps I am dealing with Maxim too much if I’m noticing those little things. Got to reel it back in. “What if I’m the one that’s done with you?”

“That wasn’t the sentiment last night. Or I guess this morning.” Of course he would be smug about that. I scoffed a little at just the way he stated it. “Come down here so I don’t have to shout up to you.”

“How do I know you won’t just trap me when I’m in arms reach?” And a possible repeat of last night. I won’t complain if it did happen though.

“Trust me Eowyn. If I wanted to trap you, it would have already been done. Now get down here.” Demanding. Much different from other lovers I have had in the past. Is he one? I guess at this point I could call him that. One to be cautious around due to our standings.

“What if I like it up top?” I placed my elbow on the railing and leaned my head on my fist, the small book I was holding swinging in my other hand that slightly over the railing. There’s no doubt that he didn’t miss my double meaning.

“Perhaps later. Now come here.” Good. That's a point towards him if he can get my jokes and keep up with them without getting flustered or angry. Guess I shouldn’t keep the man waiting or he’ll come up here himself and get me. Which again, no complaints there.

“You sir, are no fun.” I teased. And to be a pain, I decided to sit on the rail of the stairs and slide down with a bit of magic. Was it a bit childish, yeah, but even if I was in my fifties, I would still do it. When I reached the bottom, I pushed myself off the rail and almost crashed into Maxim. My hands were against his chest due to my reflexes. “Sorry about that.” I straighten his lapels and tie to then walk past him to go behind the store's counter. “Now, what would you like to say?”

“Such a switch in attitude from the other night. What happened to not making a deal with me?” He placed his big hands on the countertop to lean towards me.

“Oh, if that is what you want to talk about, there’s the door.” I magiced the door open for him.

“You’re not in the least bit interested in it. I promise you it could be quite beneficial for you.” 

Damn my curiosity. “Fine.” I shut the door with a bit of force, the bell ringing. “State it.”

“Interesting, I thought you would be a little harder to convince.” He was starting to pester me though I am starting to believe that he enjoys that.

“Just because I’m in a better mood this morning does not mean I’ll do what you want. Now that is in question if you keep dragging this out.” I brushed his hands off the counter with my own. “You should be honoured that I’m like this, this isn’t what others get early in the morning.”

Maybe I shouldn’t push his buttons, but who said I was smart. I’ve done some stupid shit before, how could this be any different?

Instead of him removing his hands, he grabbed mine. I tried to pull them away but he held tight. “What an honour indeed.” I felt his lips against my knuckles along with the scratch of his facial hair. 

“Alright.” I was able to pull my hand out of his. “What is up with you? Normally you are direct and to the point.”

“Perhaps I’m just in a better mood.” Oh, the devil. “Now on to what I wanted to discuss,”

“Finally.” I sighed with indignation. “Go on then.”

“I would like to offer you a proposition. One you will definitely enjoy.”

“I’m listening.” I propped my head on my hand as I leaned my elbow on the counter. My other was tapping against the wood due to my patience wearing thin.

“I would like to offer to be casual lovers.” Oh! That was interesting and definitely something I would like.

“So, a no strings attached kind of deal? Hmmm…as long as there are some rules that need to be followed.”

“Of course, name a way.”

“Given that we are on opposite sides in terms of…ideologies and were supposed to be enemies, once we exit these doors or that of your estate, because I know I’ll be there too, we return to trying to kill each other.” I stated.

“Reasonable. I do have a reputation to uphold.”

“Of course you do. You don’t want me to elevate even more now do you?” My snark brought a smirk to his face.

“Wouldn’t want to destroy yours either.”

“Mine is untouchable. Trust me darling when I say I have been in dodger relationships than this one.” And I would like to not dwell on them. Especially one from a few years ago that left a sour taste in my mouth. 

“May I counter offer that we try to maim, not kill each other. I don’t want you dead any time soon.” His free hand went to tuck a piece of my hair that was now a faded blue behind my ear. “You’re too amusing.”

“Glad to be of service then.” I flicked my hair back to its original state.

“Hmmm…” I could hear that deep chuckle which meant that I could be in trouble. “Is there anything else you would like to add to this little arrangement before my terms?”

“Just one, no matter what happens between the two of us either here or at your estate it stays there.”

“Agreed.” Maxim extended his hand for me to shake. At first I hesitated because he didn’t state any of his terms. Unless of course they coincided with my own, then it makes sense. The second I placed my hand in his, I regretted not asking him about it.

He came around the counter crowding me, my hand feeling warm as if something was holding it there. By magic. “I have one thing to add.”

“Well, we just shook on it so you’re kind of a bit late on that part.” I tried to pull my hand free, but whatever spell he used kept it there.

“I do believe that you have not released my hand yet. Therefore I can still add on.”

“You're kidding, right? No one does that.” It was the most ridiculous thing that I have ever heard. “And besides, you’re using magic to keep it there.”

“No one said I couldn’t be underhanded in this, now did they.” I was kicking myself mentally for not being aware that he would do some kind of trick. “You can deal with the fact that I outsmarted you later. My terms are this. You must tell me the spell you used in Venice and where you got it.”

What?! I can’t give that up. No one else knows the spell except for me. He only knew the outcome of it and I have to keep it that way. “There’s no way that I’ll…”

“Then I guess we are going to have to stay like this until you agree. I’ve been fair with your terms.” I try to pull free, using whatever counterspell I could think of to release us and absolutely nothing.

“This is outrageous. There is no way I would ever say yes to that.” I ducked under his arm to try to escape and get a little distance between us that could be allowed but he pulled me back and right into his arms. “You can’t hold me here forever.”

“I won’t need to. I only need a few more minutes.” That cocky bastard.

“You’re so sure of yourself huh? Well I got news for you sir that I am not…” My triad was cut short by his lips crashing into mine. I didn’t push him away. I should have, but a part of me said to stay like this. I was angry at what he tried to pull yet he was just addictive. Damn, I might have bitten off more than I can chew.

She was holding out much longer than I had initially anticipated. Then again, I should have known better than to test Eowyn’s stubbornness. Hers will just have to face off against my own. I won’t let go until she agrees to my terms. Even if it interferes with the rest of my schedule.

She was the one to break apart first, her free hand pressed against my chest. “Maxim…”

“Agree to the terms. I promise you that I will make it worth your wild.” I leaned into her more and even though she was shorter than me by a few inches, she wasn’t overshadowed. She met my advance by pressing her body into mine. It’s hard to tell what she was thinking in this moment, but I do believe I will be winning this battle of wits soon.

“I’ll teach you the spell.” Excellent. I released the spell keeping her hand in mine and tried to break away except she held fast. “I’ll teach you the spell on my own terms. It won’t be right away.”

Clever little fox. “Very well. I can convince you to show me during our time together.” She released my hand at that. She never asked if this was a magically binding contract. It wasn’t which meant I could bend the terms however I wish, same with her. 

“Yeah, we’ll see about that now won't we.” Her snark was evident, why she was hiding it was a bit puzzling. It was as if she was tampering it down for some reason. Perhaps it is due to the fact that she was getting more angry at me for my underhanded trick.

“Oh, come now. Why are you holding back on me? That isn’t you.”

“And you know me so well after one full conversation with me? And half of that time we spent fighting each other.” I felt the bite of her building temper, the air around us electric. Perhaps too eclectic.

“I know you to be snarky, clever, agile, talented and a thorn in my side. I know you’re holding back on me. So tell me what you really want to say.”

If one wasn’t paying attention to their surroundings, they would have missed the thin silver tendrils floating about and around Eowyn. As quickly as they appeared, they were gone with the sound of the lamp that was on the counter exploding. Her frustration turned to fear as shards flew past both of us, me blocking as many as I could from hitting her. There were a few that cut up her upper arm and face, but nothing too serious.

“You didn’t have to do that. All I asked was for you to speak your mind.”

“I…I didn't do that.” Strange. “I didn’t even cast a spell.”

“You did something to make that happen because it wasn’t me.” My hand found its way to the cut on her face, tracing the small trail of blood and wiping it away. “We can’t have this.” A slight healing spell removed the red line quickly. “Your face is too pretty to be marred like that.”

“And my arm?’

“Eh, might as well.” The red lines on her arm disappeared as well. “Don’t get use to it though.”

“Wouldn’t dream of it. Normally I would heal myself.” She pushed past me to survey the damage of the lamp that as of now I had no idea what it looked like. “What in the hell caused this? If neither of us did anything…”

“One of us, that being you, did.” I stated as a matter of fact.

She turned quickly with anger written on her face. “I did not do this!” Above us, one of the lightbulbs exploded as well. This time nothing came of it in terms of injuries. Just fear from her.

“Clearly you are.” How is this possible? She claims to be using no spells. There’s no way that she could… wait.

“There’s no way that…what are you doing?!” The gem in hand, I pulled the chain off her, breaking the clasp. “You better fix that! And besides we already been over this, You can’t even use it if you wanted to.”

“Shush.” I placed a finger against her lips to silence her.

“Rude.” Was all she said in return that made me smirk. But I have to focus, so I can't get distracted by her.

Upon closer inspection, there were small flakes of silver moving around in the red colouring of the gem. Interesting. “Ms. Whitmore?” She didn’t respond. “YOu may speak now.” I said with a sigh realising that she was being a brat.

“Oh, good. As if I need you to tell me I could or couldn’t. And I do believe we are on a first name basis now.” Definitely a brat.

“Very well, Eowyn. I request that you return with me to my estate so I may further study what happened.”

“Absolutely not. I will not be a study subject. We already discussed that.” True, though I believed that she would go for it with everything that just happened.

“Then how about for a bit of fun instead.” She ignored me and went about putting the lamp back together. It was old for sure, the inlays had gold leafing on it making it seem more expensive. If it weren’t for the cracks in it now from where Eowyn magiced it back together, it would have fetched a good amount. The cracks now appeared gold. “Weren’t you the one saying I wasn’t earlier?”

“That was before you opened your big mouth and said something stupid. Now, if you will excuse me, I have work to do.” The small bell above her door rang and a human entered. “Good morning ma’am. How can I help you?”

Maxim left after that customer came in and I didn’t see him for the rest of the day. Good thing too because I wanted to lay in to him for trying to make me into some sort of experiment even if it would have led to a good time later on like he suggested. Instead, I focused on the tasks that needed to be done during the day to distract me until it was time to close the store.

Night had fallen at this point and I was sitting cross legged on an ottoman with books in front of me and a journal in my lap. My space may be small, but that’s the beauty of magic. It can make even the smallest spaces into a warm inviting home.

These books and old journals I have collected over the years had pages that were worn and yellow from age, some in different languages that I have yet to fully learn. My friends and colleagues have been able to help with most but these have eluded me. 

At this point I had developed a major headache from staring at the pages. My eyes hurt just from staring at them. I even had to switch from my contacts to my glasses earlier than usual. My half eaten dinner was on top of a stack of books balanced perfectly. If it weren’t for the slight shake I felt, it would have stayed in place. It only moved slightly, not much for one to notice but enough to let me know someone was here. Good or bad, that had yet to be determined.

I have still been on edge ever since Maxim broke through my warding spells that first time. I set more spells up to give me more time to escape through the circular window that was here on the second floor that led to the neighbouring rooftops. I wasn’t worried about Maxim entering because I knew he wouldn’t try any shit to harm me in my own home.

None of my warning spells went off, which led me to believe it was Maxim. That shouldn’t relax me the way it did yet it did. When those big hands reached around and tilted my head to the side, kissing my neck, his beard scratched my shoulder. “You were supposed to meet me at my estate.”

“Oh really? If I remember correctly, I was angry at you.” I didn’t stop him and I didn’t want him to.

“True.” He continued to kiss my neck.

“Besides, I had work of my own that had to be done.”

“What kind of work?”

“Translations.” I put it bluntly. “They are proving difficult.”

That stopped him from distracting me and he pulled the journal I was holding from my lap. “I’ve been around a long time. Perhaps I can help.”

“You could, but that’s not why you’re here, is it? You have other plans don’t you?” In response, he removed himself from me and came around to face me, journal still in hand.

“Now you’ve intrigued me. Unless you would like to do something that is more hands-on?” He slowly thumb through the pages to make a point.

“As much as I would love to,” I finally got up and snatched back the journal, “I can’t right now. Work and all that.”

“Very well then.” He took back the journal again. “I shall help you in this endeavour with my lexicon of languages. Just one thing first.”

“Which is?”

“I would like something in return.” I glared at him and all he did was smirk back. “Even though I am a staple in our society, I have branched out into the human one.”

“Really? I can hardly believe that.” I didn’t even try at all to hide the snark.

“Shush.” His arm went around my waist and tucked me close to his body. “As I was saying, I have to make an appearance every once in a while to those I invest in. And I won’t lie either sweetheart, I also use these events to also hold meetings with our kind from time to time.”

“So they play as some sort of front for you Morganians?” Seems convoluted.

“I didn’t design it that way, but I was gone for ten years. I promise that we have advanced past the whole cloak and dagger scenario.”

“And may I ask if there’s going to be a meeting and what it would be about?” If I was going to agree with this, I need to know everything. “And won’t this get in the way of our arrangement?”

“No and no. But I can tell you this, you won’t be recognized. They only know your name, not what you look like. You did a very good job at hiding yourself from the eyes of other sorcerers that aren’t in your circle. Though perhaps go with a different colour. ” He brushed my blue hair back a bit to emphasise the point and to have the opportunity to touch me. Afterward, his hand went back to my waist.

“What’s wrong with it?” 

“Nothing at all. It’s just better safe than sorry. Besides, I like this shade.” I can see why he does given that’s the colour of his magic.

“Well, how about the other half of my question? How does this not break our arrangement? We can’t be seen in public or we have to pretend to try and kill each other. This whole thing defeats the purpose of that rule.” I explained.

“It’s only business Eowyn. You help me and vice versa. Besides, this is a human event and I will behave with my magic.” He backed away from me a bit. “And there might be something there for you to nab.”

“Why didn’t you lead with that?” Seriously, it’s like he doesn’t even know me even though he claims to. 

“I just wanted to see if you would agree before I mentioned that last bit. Now, what do you say? I will help you translate and you will accompany me to this event.” I should’ve said no. I really should have. The possibility of running into an ex is low but still possible especially if there was a meeting happening. We all make mistakes and Phillip was one of them. In the end I said yes only because I’ve been working on these damn translations for months and I wanted it over. And if he can bend the rules then in the future, so can I.

Chapter Text

There was some strange comfort sitting here with Eowyn even though she was sitting on the floor instead of the now changed ottoman. I made it a more spacious settee for the two of us, though I understand her thought process. Probably does not wish to get distracted. As she sat there on a cushion, scratching away in her own book as I translated important things from these journals, I wondered how she acquired such things. They were mostly in Galeic and Middle English, there is no question on why it took her this long to translate them.

As we worked like this for an hour, something gave me pause when the name Merlin was mentioned. Eowyn stopped her writing and looked up from her work. “What is it?”

“Nothing to concern yourself over sweetheart. Just a name.” 

“What name?” She got off the floor and came over to curl up next to me to read what was on the page.

“Again, nothing for you to…” 

“Oh, Merlin.” I looked down at her with slight surprise. “What? No matter the language, I can recognize that name. I have many that do. What does it say about him?”

“Mostly praise and prattle. Honestly, people don’t know what he was really like.” Something I wish I could forget, but alas his name is forever branded in folklore and history.

“You were one of his apprentices, right? What was it like? I can imagine he was strict.” She sat up and placed her knees under her.

“I’ve imagined you on your knees but it was always more…” A pillow hit my face before I could finish. I held it in my hands, pondering what I should do with it. “Bold little fox.”

“Get your head out of the gutter, you.” She leaned forward to try and take the pillow back, if it weren’t for me grabbing her hand and pulling her even more to be across my lap. With the grace of a cat, she twisted around fast so she could look up at me instead. “You’re going to have to be smarter than that. I saw that so fast.”

“More like faster. It’s obvious that I am smarter here.” Her face scrunched up in frustration and became red in embarrassment.

“Hey!” She cried out in said frustration.

“It’s true. Though my years of experience does help with that.”

“I like where this conversation is going.” She crossed her arms and pouted, the sarcasm wasn’t hard to miss. “I feel like you’re deflecting from our actual conversation. What was Merlin actually like?”

The last thing I wanted to do was talk about my old master but how can I deny her? Stuffy. Boring. ,ade us follow the rules while he broke them constantly. The ultimate hypocrite.”

“That’s it? That doesn’t sound like much.” She remained where she was, only moving her arms to a more relaxed position.

“He played favourites. Obviously.” I gestured towards myself. “Look at what happened in the end.”

“You betrayed him and he ended up dead.” Eowyn sat up and straddled me, her arms going around my neck. “But you didn’t kill him. That was Morgana.”

“I would rather not continue dredging up the past. Perhaps a distraction is needed.” My hands tried to hold her in place on my lap but she was faster than me. Though she isn’t small, she is a lithe creature. That moniker I gave is starting to fit her more and more everyday.

Standing in front of me, hands on her hips. “I’m still upset at you from before.” As she leaned forward, one of her hands was going to hold the back of the settee next to my head. Her face was only a few inches from mine. “Though you do make a convincing argument.” She looked down at the noticeable bulge.

“Then I guess I will have to try harder.” I got up from my position and she took a step back so she wouldn’t trip over anything. It was only a matter of time that she made the decision to run and dodge. Never out of fear, no. This was a game to her, one where both of us are the winners.

“Good luck with that.” Her eyes never wavered as she stared me down, the wheels in that pretty head of hers turning as she was coming up with a plan.

“A challenge then, well…” She wasn’t fast enough this time. As she tried to dart around me, my arm went around her waist, keeping her from escaping as I threw her over my shoulder. “I accept.”

“Put me down!” She squeaked. There was no doubt that there was a bright streak of red across her face. The fox has been caught.

“You started this Eowyn Whitmore and this time I do intend to finish it.” All I could hear was the smallest of squeaks. For all her talk and bravado, she can get flustered very easily.

This was a turn of events for the evening that I wasn't expecting though I’m not upset by them. Yeah, I was still peeved at him from before but that lessened over the time we spent working together. Why did he decide to help? That wasn’t part of the deal. I won’t turn down help though, this stuff has been getting me for months. 

I was tossed onto my mattress unceremoniously and not a moment later he was on top of me, my wrists in his hands keeping me in place. Normally it would be the other way around, me initiating this and on top. But this was a nice change of pace. I kicked a little in surprise and his response was to straddle them to keep them from moving.

“Very reminiscent of our first night, eh?” I teased. 

“You were too exhausted to do anything else. Now…we have all night.” A shiver made its way down my spine and to my core. He could make the most mundane words sound sexy.

“Maybe next time don’t come knocking in the middle of the night.” I shifted a little under him, making the apparent erection of his strain more against his pants.

“Duly noted. Now…” His hand travelled down to my hips, getting closer to that sweet spot. “Where were we?” 

Since one of my hands was free now, it gave me the perfect opportunity to touch him. I took off his ascot and pricked myself with that spider pin he wears. My intake of breath brought it to his attention and he gently took my hand in his to inspect it. “I think you’ll live.”

“What will you do to make it feel better then?” I got my answer fast. My pants, shirt and underwear were gone and so was his vest and shirt. A full view of his tattoos made me pause and pondered why he had them. I swear I have seem them somewhere else before. There wasn’t any time to stay on that train of thought, I was too busy getting properly fucked.

No words were exchanged between us as Maxim deftly placed his hand between my legs, masterly playing with my clit, a wave of pure ecstasy rushing through me. I don’t regret making this arrangement even if he can be insufferable.

“I feel as if you are still overdressed for this.” I teased.

“Then let’s change that shall we.” In just a few moments, we were both completely naked. 

It wasn’t long before I could feel Maxim press his cock against my folds, teasing them and making me wait in anticipation. I didn’t have to say anything for him to get the picture with me pulling him closer to my body, the tip entering me slightly causing me to moan. I know this man knows exactly what he was doing but tonight I was a very impatient woman and he was holding back to torture me. After making me wait long enough he was fully inside of me, my entire body melting under him. He was definitely right about waiting. 

Each thrust, every touch, hell even the small bite he gave me on my shoulder just enhanced everything I felt. The second he bit me again lightly on the neck, my body spasmed and I came hard. That was definitely a first. I never knew something so small like that could undo me in seconds.

Maxim held me tight in his arms as I rode out the organism. He didn’t move at all, making me squirm under him. Once the wave of pleasure had dimmed a bit, his hands went to my waist to pull me as close as possible so his cock was filling me fully.

“Fuck.” My voice was barely a whisper.

One of his hands went to my already sensitive clit and plated with it even more, making me moan even louder. “You want to say that again sweetheart?” He didn’t let up, causing me to moan more loudly. “What was that? I couldn’t hear you.”

“You know damn well!” He pushed me over the edge once more. I just knew that the stamina of this man could match mine in a heartbeat. With a final thrust, he was buried deep within me, warmth filling me as he came. His body was on top of mine sweaty and panting, boxing my head in with his elbows. His lips met my neck where he bit me, kissing it softly and whispering in my ear. “Definitely worth the wait.”

“Well worth it.” I trace my fingers over the faded ink on his chest. “I have to ask, what do they mean?”

“Another time sweet fox. For now, you’re mine for the entire night.” Guess I won’t be getting any other work done tonight.

Chapter Text

Eowyn was sleeping, tucked under her blankets after a quick shower. One she had suggested for me to join and how could I decline such an offer. Her wet hair fanned out under her, paler than it was before. She’ll most likely dye it again after this weekend.

With her sleeping soundly, it was the perfect time to search through those journals without constant questions or probing into past affairs. Especially the one I was reading before. Something about it seemed very off. It was way too personal on the topic of Merlin, as if the author was there right next to him. Which should be impossible since the journal seems to be dated two hundred years after his death but given that it’s Merlin, anything is on the table. 

I lounged in only my pants on the loveseat as I read through the journal once more. I wasn’t wrong when I told Eowyn that most of it was misguided praise for the man. What I didn’t tell her was the second half of what the author wrote given that she distracted me thoroughly. Leave it to Merlin to create a spell for time travel and not write it down. It was probably for the best, messing with time was way too dangerous and one thing that I wouldn’t dare touch.

The question is why? Reading through the rest of the pages proved useless. There has to be something in this disorganised mess. I’m tempted to fix it all but do I really want to unleash the wrath of Eowyn? I’ll leave it for now.

None of the rest of these journals and books contained any additional information that would be useful. Perhaps there was something in my vast collection that would have the answer. Except how can I leave with the knowledge that Eowyn would think me as rude for leaving again without proper farewells? And I do not wish to wake her for her insistent questions will keep me here till dawn. A note shall have to suffice at this moment.

The note that Maxim left for me on my nightstand was still running through my mind as I was restoring an old painting that was brought in.

Eowyn,
I regret leaving without a proper farewell again but as you are with your work, I too must accomplish some things before we see each other  in a few days. I shall send you something suitable for you to wear along with information pertaining to the event. And one more thing. I still don’t know how you find anything in that mess you call a collection.
Horvath

That was a tosser move making fun of my disorganised-organised system. I bet his was so perfect. That bit about sending something for me to wear, yeah right. I think not. I have plenty of special occasion outfits just in case I need them. Like my favourite I wore in Venice. What he doesn’t know is that I have a few tricks up my sleeves when it comes to clothing. 

As I worked on the painting a knock on the shop’s door startled me causing me to jump and knocking the lager frame off the easel. Shit! Hopefully it didn’t get too damaged. It would be an easy fix but it’s pride that got in the way. I’m more careful than that.

After putting it back onto the easel, I made my way over to the door to open it and found a delivery man holding a decently sized box. “Guessing this is for you?”

“As long as it says Whitmore on it.” I took the box and placed it on the counter. “Have anything else for me today Maxwell?”

“Not this time ma’am.” Maxwell tipped his uniform cap at me as he normally did. He was a bit shorter than me and had dark brown hair that curled out from under his cap. “You got a secret admirer or something?”

“Hardly.” I went around the counter to grab some money that I kept on the side for him as a tip. The poor guy was working his way through university and needed all the money he could get. “It’s more of a…nice gesture.”

“I’m guessing you’re not going to wear it then?”

 I came around the counter, stopping in my tracks when he guessed right. “How’d you know it was clothes?”

“Given how you’re not excited about it gives me everything. You hate it when someone comes after your style.” He was right. There were times where the two of us overhead people commenting on my style and how flashy it can be. 

“He’s not coming after it. It’s more like he hasn’t experienced it fully yet.” Whatever he sent, I was going to make sure it got the full Eowyn treatment and save it for another day. “Here you go Maxwell, hope you have a splendid rest of your day.” I handed him the money and waved him off.

Coming back in and seeing the package on the counter, I was tempted to open it right there and then. Except I had to finish this project first. At least I am at the ending process of restoration. Thankfully it wasn’t damaged at all except for something hidden within the frame. There was a secret compartment in the ornate corner of it which surprised me for the owners didn’t tell me about it. They must’ve not known about it for the note that was inside. The note had to be about a hundred years old or so that had an address on it from New York City. I wasn’t going to put too much stock into it if it weren’t for one crucial detail.

Those journals I’ve been researching, every trip I have been on, led me to nothing on what I wanted to find. Only other small items that were similar in nature. This was the first big clue I’ve had in a long time.I’ve been looking for the Encantus that belonged to the Morgana le Fay herself. I know Balthazar has no clue where it is. It was lost after Merlin’s death and her capture. There have been others before that have searched for ot but have failed. Good thing too. There is no telling what kind of dangerous spells are in it. The only reason I want it is to release my master from his imprisonment, something that I had cause when I was younger. Her Encantus would have a spell or something that will help me achieve that, I just know it. To know that it might be in New York City, or at least some more information on it, is game changing.

Upon reading more of the note, it contained information on documents that could reveal the location of a very old book that was dangerous for any man to read. Those documents were hidden in a Chinese puzzle box. A sketch of said box made it obvious to me where it was located because I have seen it before. The Metropolitan Museum of Art. that was going to be tricky to do but it’s still doable.

I finished resetting the painting in its frame and prepared it for pickup, keeping the note in my pocket. No one needs to know of its existence. All that was left to do was bring Maxim’s package upstairs and see what he gave me, then I could plan my trip to New York.

The night of the event finally arrived. I was waiting outside for Eowyn to appear so we may depart. She was taking her sweet time. It doesn’t help that I decided to arrive early.

I was leaning up against my car looking up at the small nook window, just waiting for that light to go out. It finally did but it would still take her a few moments to come down. I never stopped to really take note of her building. It was definitely interesting on how it was set up. A mix of typical English architecture except for the second story windows. Those were two floor to ceiling and rounded at the top. The curtains were drawn to hide what was inside, the outline of light disappearing as Eowyn stepped out her door.

The outfit she had on was not the one I had sent over. In retrospect, this one matched her more. Her dress was floor length, coloured dark navy with a slit coming up mid thigh. One shoulder was exposed as the other was covered by a strap that became a scarf in the back. What drew me in were the constellations that seemed to move about slowly on the skirt. She must have magiced it to do so. Her hair, even when short, was in a perfect bun with silver star pins in it. A blonde strand was loose in front of her face as she finished locking up, probably intentional.

She was by my side in a few moments. “Different dress tonight, hmm?” I offered her my hand to help her into the car.

Her hand slipped into mine effortlessly. “Of course. Your pick was so boring.” I opened the door for her to get in. “Thank you. Though I believe this isn’t the first time I’ve been in your car? A Porsche, correct?”

“You would be correct on both counts. You’ll be able to enjoy the ride more this time.”

“Maybe I will later.” Her innuendo didn’t get past me as she gave me a wink as she slipped into the car. I closed the door behind her with a chuckle and made my way around to get in.

“So, what’d you have to do that was so important to leave the other morning?” Eowyn sat there with her hands in her lap not knowing what to do in the enclosed space.

“Some business that had to get done, nothing to concern yourself over.” Silence for a few moments as I drove, the wind against the car making the only noise.

Eowyn shifted a bit and started to mess with the chain of her necklace. “So, this is the first time that I actually get to enjoy a party. But what’s your plan if I am recognized? I mean a lot of people don’t know me by looks yet there are a few.”

“I have that handled. The only thing I needed from you was to change your hair.”

“What does that really have to do with changing my appearance?” 

“It makes it easier to preform the spell if I only have to focus on facial features.” That shocked her.

“You can make an illusion spell last that long?!”

“Of course. It’s very simple. I’m surprised you can’t hold them for long.” I glanced over at her to see she had stopped fiddling with the chain, her face was towards the window making it hard to see.

“Mine only lasts for a few minutes at most. The only one that can last a long time is my reflection spell. Hell, that only lasted twenty minutes max. I’m not strong enough to maintain it for longer and don’t get me started on spells that change my appearance.”

“Didn’t your master not teach you this?” I made a left turn, her body shifting to reveal some of her face.

“He’s…gone. Please, I don’t want to talk about it.” A sore topic then.

“I could teach you.” What the hell did I just say?!

“What?” I must’ve heard him wrong. There’s no way he just…

“I said I could teach you.” Guess I didn’t though it would appear that he really didn’t mean to say it out loud.

“Why?”

“I honestly don't know.” He kept his eyes on the road as he spoke. “Perhaps it is my innate want to make things more challenging for myself or it might be because I want to know how powerful you can really be. That information could prove useful in the future.”

“So what, you suggest that I should be your apprentice or something?”

“Oh, absolutely not. There is no way I would ever take an apprentice.” Well. “no, you have surpassed that title in many ways. One being making your own spell. I won’t belittle you with such a low ranking title like that.” Oh. I never knew he thought that about me. He kept saying I had talent, but this was new. “You have yet to tell me that spell by the way.”

“First of, how very kind of you to realise my true genius and talent. Second, I told you that I would teach you when I am good and ready.” Which if I have my way may be never. That spell was my pride and joy and I haven’t written it down at all. I don’t want anyone really knowing how it works.

“I’m not kind though am I? Though I am a gentleman.”His hand went to rest on my exposed knee. “Except in some moments.”

I place my hand over his, my fingers wrapping around his tightly. “You’re more of a polite scoundrel than gentleman. Unless you piss me off then you’re a bastard.”

“Hmmm?” He chuckled at that part. What is your answer?”

“I’ll think about it.” The rules were set not only a week ago and already they have been bent. I mean, he won’t really be seen with me. So what’s wrong with bending another one? There has to be something that he is planning if he is willing to bend them. And this is one way of finding out why.

Chapter Text

Damn, no wonder Maxim wanted me to come. This whole thing was a bore. So boring that it felt like a chore and I would rather translate my journals. There were a few minutes that I was left alone to get refreshments for the two of us. It also gave me time to note my surroundings and possible exits for myself. The manor was two stories from what I saw from the outside and there were multiple exits in the dining room. With those points memorised, I swear to Merlin there better be alcohol here.

And thank God there was. I took the neck of a champagne flute and downed all its contents before grabbing two more.

“I’m guessing you would prefer something stronger, Theodora.” Maxim came up beside me and placed a hand on the small of my back, using the fake name I gave to everyone here. Theodora Morringstone. 

“Would it kill someone to put out something stronger?” I heard him chuckle at that as he came around to face me. I handed him his flute.

“Perhaps when we leave. As of now, I’m needed elsewhere. Gives you the perfect time to…mingle.” I got his message. It was time to do my job.

“I’ll see you soon then.” What I wasn’t expecting was for him to take my hand and kiss the knuckles.

“Very soon.” And with that, he was gone.

Shaking off that surprise, it was time. 

I managed to break away from the party undetected and walked down the halls of the manor. This place was on the outskirts of London but was still decently sized. From what I remembered, Maxim told me the item here was a dagger. So, if I was a dagger where would I be? Then it hit me, the library or study. Someone would either use it as a decoration or letter opener. 

Silently walking down the halls and up a flight of stairs, I had to stop short and hide around the corner. There were two men talking in hushed tones that I could barely make out the words, but it was something serious. After their brief conversation, one of them made their way towards my direction. Which is why I am grateful I chose this particular dress tonight. The spells in it help me hide in the shadows, making me almost invisible. I activated the spell just in time before he could turn the corner.

The man walked right past me without even a glance. I held my breath and waited for a moment before stepping out and continuing my search.

The library was easy to find except the door was locked. Not a problem. Grabbing my hair stick and the pick in my bracelet, it was easy to pick the lock. Putting everything back into place, I made quick work in my search. The library had two floors, but I doubt the dagger would be near the bookshelves. There was a desk in front of the balcony window. That would be the perfect place for it to be hiding. Making my way around a few chairs and a settee, I started to dig through the desk draws and shuffled through the papers.

Now Maxim said that the hilt was made of silver with a ruby at the base.

Ah ha! There it was. Right in plain sight. This was way too easy. The dagger was sitting in a pen holder, the ruby shining by the stream of moonlight that came through the windows. It was definitely used as a letter opener. With the dagger in hand, I wondered what was so important about it. I couldn’t feel anything coming off it as I pulled back my dress to reveal a knife holster around my leg. Another reason this dress was a good choice, the slit made for easy access. Now I have to get back to the party before I am missed.

If it weren’t for the arms that went around me, trapping me against someone's body. “I knew there was someone snooping around.” I recognized the voice being the one from the hall. “What are you doing here, thief?”

“If you have to ask, then you aren’t that bright.” I stomped on his foot hard, making him loosen his grip on me with a yelp. I leaned forward, pulling him over my shoulder and knocking the wind out of him. “Gotta run, this was fun. Let’s not do this again though shall we.” I rushed out the balcony window instead of the doors I came through. Guess I won’t be returning to the party.

I spoke too soon when I felt a punch go past my head that I dodge. This guy was so damn loud it wasn’t hard to. I grabbed his arm and twisted it behind him, grappling him in place. “I really don’t want to fight in heels tonight, alright? Let’s just call it a draw and forget this all happened.” The bastard tried to head butt me or tried to. I was short enough to duck out of the way but I wasn’t able to avoid his leg. He tripped me up, making me fall to the ground.

In the back of my head, I told myself I couldn’t use magic due to all the humans, hell he is most likely human. He pulled out a knife and tried to stab down at me but I rolled to the side and got my bearing. He tried to rush me if it weren’t for a swift knee to the groyne from me. This allowed me enough time to make my escape except he grabbed my ankle.  I held out my hands to break my fall and kicked back to break the contact.

Damn it! How many times do I have to go through this with this wanker?! I just want him gone. 

I finally kicked away from him and poised to knock him out when a force blasted him up into the wall, his head hitting it with a crack. Shit! He wasn’t moving but there was movement from his breathing. Was…no one was here, it was only the two of us. Did I do that? But I didn’t cast anything. It was like in my shop where I got so aggravated that I wanted to throw something and the lamp exploded. It really had to be me.

No.

No. No. No. No!

What the hell is happening?

I found Eowyn walking on the side of the road heading into London. After that unnecessary meeting, I returned to the event to find her missing. At first I thought she was caught if it weren’t for the unconscious body saying something different. It was good to know that she could win against others. Instead of waiting around like these other humans, I just left knowing I would find Eowyn somewhere between here and London.

Which is how I found her soaked due to the rain. The illusion was broken but something was still off about her. It was the way she was holding herself, small and seemed very skittish. What happened? 

I pulled up beside her and stepped out to stop her from advancing. She seemed to be shivering from the cold rain. If she stays out here any longer, she’ll catch her death.

“Get in the car, Eowyn.” No snarky remark, no fight, just nothing. She did what I told her to do. There is definitely something wrong.

After closing the door on my side, she slid in and sat there in silence. “What happened?” No response. “Eowyn…”

“Hmmm?” There was a murmur from her as she finally acknowledged me.

“What happened?” I repeated.

“I…I don’t know.” And I do believe she’s not going to elaborate on that. The entire drive she was silent. My hand was resting on her exposed knee, her skin was ice cold.

“Did he do anything to you?” She shook her head no in response. “What do you…”

“Enough with the questions!” Her voice cracked as she yelled and drew her knees to herself. “I don’t want to talk.” Her voice was now barely a whisper.

“As long as you are uninjured, I’ll leave it be.”

“Just a few bruises, nothing life threatening.” She returned to silence.

It was a longer drive out to my estate, it being further out from the city and near some woodlands. The old stone manor reminded me of times long gone and seemed timeless like myself. And it was definitely easier to get to than Ewoyn’s home in the city. She perked up when the car stopped and seemed confused by our location. There was no doubt that she would share her opinion on this and demand I return her to London.

“I won’t send you home like this. You’ll fall over dead the moment you step through your door. I might be a devil, but again, I am a gentleman. Ow out.” I didn’t wait for her response as I got out and went around to open the passenger side door for her. “I rather not stand in the rain all night, Eowyn.”

She finally snapped out of whatever held her and made her way under the covering above the giant wooden door. I joined her a few minutes later to open the door for her to enter. To my surprise the wolves came out to greet her as she stepped over the threshold. This was completely against their training. Normally they were leery of wanted guests. Since finding her though this was the first time I saw her smile.

“What have you done to my wolves to make them forgo their training?” When they heard my voice, all four of them returned to their normal demeanour.

“Maybe they just like me more.” There were a bit of those quips that I have grown accustomed to from her. Yet as quickly as it came, it was snuffed out.

“You need to get cleaned up and warm.” I motioned for the leader of the pack to come forward. “Make sure she finds her way and bring her to my study when she’s ready.”

“I can…” So there was an ember there. Good to see the rain didn’t snuff it out completely.

“I know you are capable of getting there on your own except I don’t want you snooping around. An escort is therefore needed.”

“Then why not you?” She crossed her arms in front of her.

“Because I have work to do.” If glares could kill, hers would. “Besides, I assume you would like some privacy after everything you won’t tell me.”

“Oh.” That seemed to get her, but the fire dimmed in her eyes.

“I will have something dry for you when you’re done.” I pushed her forward to follow her escort. “Go on then, I’ll be waiting.”

Eowyn followed hesitantly as I watched her go up the stairs in the foyer and disappear around the corner. I, on the other hand, have to find something for her to wear.

Concentrating on what was in front of me was difficult when Eowyn walked in with ill fitting clothes on. They were mine after all.

“You couldn’t find anything else for me to wear?” She placed her hands on her hips in annoyance.

"It was the only thing I had or would you rather be naked. Either way is good for me. Though I do like seeing you in my clothing.” She had on silk pyjama pants that were rolled many times at the waist and a button down that was exposing her shoulder. Where her shoulder was exposed, there was a bruise forming. She must have landed on it in her tussle. “Now tell me exactly what happened? I thought you were a professional at this kind of thing.”

“First of all, I am. And second, nothing to be concerned about. I got what I wanted. I just overreacted to the whole situation” Liar.

“Underreacted you mean.” The wolf that escorted her nudged her hand to be petted. “You still can’t lie sweetheart.” I whistle for the wolf to leave her yet it remains under her hand.

“It’s okay, Gawain can stay. He’s been very sweet.” She knelt down and scratched behind his ear. “Isn’t that right?”

“I’m sorry? Did you name my wolf?”I pinched the bridge of my nose in frustration.

“Of course. A fine animal that is chivalrous and noble deserves a name to match.” She stood and made her way over to me, pointing a finger into my chest. “And you have neglected to give them any.” True, I never did give them names.

Taking her hand in mine, I stood quickly, making her trip into me as I trapped her in my arms. “You’re saying you named them all?”

“Absolutely. There’s Gawain, Percivial, Bedivere, and Kay. Fine names for noble creatures.” I caught that little glint of mischief in her eyes.

“You named them after Knights of the Round Table? Those snivelling idiots?” I can’t believe this even though I wasn’t that upset about it. It was amusing. Though I must wonder…“Why not Lancelot?”

“Pff, he’s annoying.” How true that statement was. “Besides, I preferred reading about the others. His story is kind of overrated.”

“Hmmm. They were all annoying. Though it would seem we have got off track.” I sat pulling her long with me. There was a huff of air from her as she landed on my lap. “Now, about what happened?”

Eowyn quickly gathered her senses and picked herself up off me, brushing off nothing from her body.

“I was honest before when I said I don’t know. I’m still trying to figure it out.” Her arms were crossed against her chest, holding herself, moving in front of my desk. Perhaps the best course of action was not to push at the moment.

For now. “Very well, I’ll let you figure it out. In the meantime, hand over the dagger that is no doubt hidden amongst your person.”

“Excuse me?” She rested a hand on my desk and leaned towards me. “Why would I ever give it to you?”

“Because you don’t know what it does and it was I who told you about it in the first place.”

She was glaring at me and the shift in her eyes was the clue that she figured everything out. “Fucking hell, you used me!”

“Such crass language. All I did was allow you to help me acquire it and be better company at a very boring event.”

“You used me and you know it! I can’t believe this. I should’ve known that you would pull this kind of shit!” She started to pace in front of my desk, fire burning through her as her shoulders tensed in anger. “I can’t fucking believe this.”

“Nevertheless, it is done and the dagger is mine. Hand it over.”

Both hands were on my desk in a fit of rage. “Over my. Dead. Body.” Each word spoken had a bite to them.

“Dead no, though I do believe we can come to a better solution.” I met her stance, standing with both hands in front of hers and leaning close enough to kiss her.

“Yeah, not happening tonight. To think I was going to tell you where I’ll be going in a few days.” That was some interesting news.

“And where would that be?”

“Oh darling,” she patted my check in a patronising manner, “you lost that privilege the moment you decided to use me for your own purposes. Maybe next time you could just ask.” Before she could retreat, I grabbed her hand and kissed it. 

“I’ll figure it out eventually. All you would do is save me some time. Now give me the dagger.” The look of frustration and rage in her eyes only brought a smirk to my face yet the moment her shoulders deflated in defeat, it stirred something that I couldn’t place. The warmth of her hand was ever present as she crouched down to unholster the dagger from her leg. Not a moment later it was stabbed into the desk, making it stand on its own. “I can’t believe you damaged an antique.”

“I didn’t though.” She was correct. The dagger was stabbed into a thick pile of papers I had out. “You’re welcome.”

“Much appreciated.” I pulled it out of the papers and held it. “It is missing it’s third partner though.”

“What are you talking about?”

“That night in Venice, I wasn’t there only because of you. I too was searching for something as well. Obviously, I found it and now I am only missing one piece.” I released her hand to turn towards the cabinet behind me to lock away the dagger for safe keeping. “You want to know what it does, don’t you?”

“Obviously.” After placing the dagger upon a deep red sash that I still can’t believe survived all this time. After locking up the cabinet, I turned to find Eowyn sitting cross legged on the settee, waiting for me to continue.

I found my spot next to her, completely different since the first time we were in this room together.  How quickly things have changed. “These items, they were used in a marriage ceremony back during Arthur’s reign.”

“Then why do you want them? You hardly seem like the type of person that would care about that sort of thing.” The wolf that she aptly named Gawain reached his head up to be petted.

“Under any normal circumstances you would be correct, yet I believe you are forgetting something.” She looked a tad confused by that. “Could you tell that there were no magical properties to it at all?”

“Yeah, during the whole time I had it on me I couldn’t feel anything. Why would you want something like that?” 

“These items are keys to something very powerful. The only issue is finding the location of the door.” 

Her hand landed on my knee. “I’m going to take a guess and say you won’t tell me anything you have on that.” 

“We all have our secrets. Like how you won’t tell me where you are going and for what.” I took up her hand in mine, tugging on her to come closer. She didn’t budge.

“I have good reasons for both.” Her free hand touched the top of Gawain…gah now she has me using the name. “Wouldn’t you agree Gawain?” He huffed at her. “See, even Gawain agrees you fucked up in not asking me for help. Now you just have to suffer consequences.”

“Would you have agreed any other way?” I countered.

“Maybe if you had asked nicely, I would have.” By her nature alone, I was inclined to believe her.

“Noted for the future. Now,” I was able to gently pull her next to me and place an arm behind her, “will you tell me what happened?”

Chapter Text

The streets of New York City were windy as hell as I made my way to Balthazar’s home. It was a good thing that I didn’t tell Maxim that I was coming here or else he would have gone on about how terrible Balthazar was in terms of him being a Merlinian. But I did tell him everything that happened with that man that almost caught me. He told me that he took care of his memory and that he won’t remember anything about me. Though his theories on how it all happened all stemmed from the gem around my neck. Maybe I should ask Balthazar, he might have gained more knowledge since the last time we saw each other and more weird things that have happened to me might lend him more information. He’s also just as old as Maxim and might have different sources.

Climbing up the steps of the brownstone building in Manhattan, I took a deep breath before knocking on the door. It was only a few moments before a pair of arms were wrapped around me in a tight hug. It was Veronica.

“Eowyn!” I was too surprised by this welcome. It was customary at this point. Ever since we met, we became fast friends. “I am delighted to see you. How was your flight?”

“Annoyingly long and tiring. At least I travel light.” I pulled the strap of the duffle bag that was across my chest. “Is Balthazar here?”

“He is in the living room. What seems to be the matter dear?” Bullocks, I guess she knows me too well for me to hide anything from her.

“It is something I need to speak to both of you about actually.” She nodded and moved to let me pass by to enter. I placed the duffle bag at the base of the stairs and removed my coat. She took it to hang it in the closet.

“Something else is bothering you. Something that I believe you wish to keep from Balthazar.”

“How…I shall speak with you about it later. This takes precedence.” I could never understand how Veronica could tell when I was hiding something or if something was wrong. Guess it was just her innate talent.

“Of course.” She led me to the living room where Baltazar was standing next to the lit fireplace.

“You’re not doing yourself any favours standing like an old painting from the renaissance Blake.” I teased. There were some instances that his age showed in how he held himself or dressed. Especially how he dressed himself. Those old man shoes were the real offender in this case. It was a good thing that I found someone that made rubber soled shoes that were stylish.

“Eowyn.” He came up to give me a hug as well. Somehow, even after all this time and without his coat on, he has found a way to smell like old books and leather. “Good to see you.”

“Same here. Though I do wish it wasn’t work related.” If only I could take an actual vacation, that would be the best damn day ever.

“Yes, tell us all about that.” He motioned for me to take a seat in the wingback chair. “From what you told me over the phone, this is a delicate matter?” He took a seat on the opposite facing couch.

“Yes.” Veronica brought in a tray of tea and sat next to him. “What is it you are truly after?”

“I am after some documents that might lead me to something extremely powerful and if it falls into the wrong hands it could be just as bad as what almost happened a few years ago.” I don’t need to explain what happened. They were at the centre of the whole ordeal. The look on Veronica’s face said it all. “The issue is that the box that contains them is a Chinese puzzle box and is being stored at the MET. I don’t have to explain how much harder it is to break into there than it is at the British Museum.”

“That is a bit of a conundrum. I know Dave is to be there for an event to represent the NYU Physics department.”

“That’s what I was hoping for. If he could get me entranced to the whole thing, I could do what I need to do. I am willing to pay him back if it costs anything at all.”

“I go give him a call but I don’t see it being an issue.” That just left Veronica and me sitting alone while he walked off to another room in the house.

“That should keep him occupied for a moment.” Veronica patted the seat next to her for me to join her. When I did she handed me a cup of tea. “Now tell me what is really troubling you.”

“It’s…I mean…I don’t…ah shit. I don’t know how to talk about it.”

“Start at the beginning then.” And how would I be able to do that? It’s not like I could say I had a casual relationship with one of the most feared and dangerous sorcerers out there. The only way I could even go about it is to leave out very crucial details. 

Which she didn’t question or try to delve deeper into. “And now I don’t know where these feelings are coming from. I mean, it’s only been a month at least. I don’t really do romantic feelings. It’s…” very dangerous to be involved with me. I couldn’t even say that out loud.

“Time is irrelevant when it comes to the matter of the heart. It’s irrational and there is no controlling it. It becomes messy when you try to apply logic to it.” Everything did become messy after what happened at the party. How he treated me, like he cared more about me as a person than an asset. Then of course he had to go about and trick me to do his dirty work. I would have said yes if he had only asked me which just confuses me more.

“I wish there was an easy answer to all this. With everything else, I don’t need to add on to it all.” 

“You said he is like us, correct?” I nodded. “Then perhaps he would understand where you are coming from when it comes to how dangerous your work is.”

“That’s not the issue I’m having. He already knows that part.” He’s the reason it’s dangerous. “It’s…the other thing.”

“Oh, that. You can’t keep blaming yourself for that. When you're younger, magic is very unstable. He was asking too much of you.”

“It doesn’t change that it has happened to multiple people afterwards.”

Veronica’s hand rested on my shoulder. “Then maybe he can change that if you open up to him.”

“Open up to who?” What great timing on Balthazar’s part. Not really. I don’t want to talk about my complicated love life with him. And if he ever found out that it was Maxim, then things would go down bad.

“Oh, just someone that is trying to court our dear Eowyn. Though she keeps skirting around his name.”

“His name would change anything. Besides, I don’t have time to entertain any of it with my work.” Time to switch the topic before I say anything I will regret. “Did you get a hold of Dave?”

“I did. He said he can get you in. Since both he and Becky are representing their departments, he has a plus one to give out.” good, he didn’t press for more information. Also good to know that Becky and Dave are doing well in their fields. 

“That’s excellent. In the end this should be cut and dry. Most of security will be focused on the event.”

“Good, good. Now about this man…” Dammit. His fatherly side is showing. No matter how much he denies it, he treats both me and Dave like his own. Time to disengage.

“Whelp, I’ve had a long flight and should sleep off this jetlag. Can’t fall asleep in the middle of a job you know.” I placed my cup on the tray and stood, stretching a bit for emphasis.

“Of course dear. I’ll bring you to your room.” Veronica led me out and up the stairs. Halfway she looked back at me to speak. Don’t worry about that. He just wants to make sure you’re safe.”

“It’s the other way around. He should be more worried about the guy. Besides, we have to remain casual to be safe.” Hell, working together is edging the line quite a bit.

“Never say that. Who knows what the future holds. It would eb a lot of heartbreak and possibly worse if it really did change to more.

This event's security gave me no hassle since I came with Dave. it was also good that I kept my hair blonde, it would draw less attention. Maybe when I get home, I’ll dye it a light blue. Becky came down to us on the stairs to greet us and pulled me out of my musings. She did ask if we could get here a bit early so she could get a chance to see me. The two of us hugged and said a quick hello to each other.

“Wow, don’t you two look lovely…I mean you always look great all the time.” I patted him on the back to reassure him.

“Dave, there’s no reason to be nervous. And thank you, you don’t look half bad yourself.” He was wearing a very casual dark brown suit for the event.

“Yeah, not my normal attire. Give me jeans and a sweatshirt any day.”

“I think you look handsome.” Becky said before kissing him on the cheek. She was wearing a simple black cocktail dress, her hair fanning out behind her. “And Eowyn, you look amazing as usual.”

“Oh please, this old thing. It’s nothing that special.” The simple black pantsuit I had on shimmer under the streetlights due to the silver thread that swirled to make butterflies that I added to the hems of the sleeves and collar. Such a simple fabric to move around in and to hold onto magic makes my job easier. The flats help as well, making everything quiet.

“Lies.” We both laughed at that. “I’m sorry that I couldn’t talk for long, I’m needed inside. Next time you’re in the city, we need to set a day aside to hang.”

“I would love that. See you inside.” I waved up to her as she walked up the stairs and inside. “So Dave, are you nervous about tonight?”

The two of us ascended the stairs slowly. “Me? Pfft. I’m never nervous.” 

I gave a side glance at him, eyebrow raised. “Man, Balthazar was right. You are a terrible liar.”

“Alright, yeah. This is my first time doing this sort of thing.”

“You’ll do great, I just know it.”

“What about you?” We were at the top near the doors.

“Nope. I’ve done this so many times that I can do it in my sleep.” And planning ahead really does do wonders.

There were no issues entering the building, my shrunken down bag was undetectable in my pocket. Best way to get things out without notice. It was about an hour in that I was able to excuse myself away from Dave in order to get to work.

No one was going to miss me in the main area and no one would notice me when I went towards storage. I had a plan for that. Rounding the corners, I flicked my hand with a bit of magic to animate the butterflies on the cuffs to life. They would be able to flitter to the cameras and obscure them, acting more like a piece of dust that got on the lens. There were a few cameras that were on my way to my final destination which was the stairs down to the basement. Can’t take the elevator or else be caught by the cameras in there which would be harder to obscure. I made my way down into the basement, reaching the door to storage silently. The butterfly in my hand turned into a skeleton key in order to unlock the door. 

The lights were off and I intended to keep it that way. One of the butterflies would be my light source as I searched storage for the puzzle box. After a few minutes of searching, I found it tucked away in the back, something that was being prepared to ship. Good thing I got here before it was or else I have no idea where it would be. 

The box itself was ornate with its depiction of foxes and rabbits on the side with gold on top of the cherry red of the box. There was a head of a fox in the middle on the side that was more decorative than functional. There was only a short amount of time to solve this puzzle before the schedule rounds. Sliding pieces into their correct spots, the lid opened to reveal nothing inside. But I knew that there was more than met the eye on this one. I brushed my hands on the sides and the inside of the box to find something. There were four tabs that needed to be pushed up for a keyhole to appear on the back of the box. Even though I didn’t have the key, I did have my butterfly skeleton one. It fit perfectly into it, unlocking some mechanism to release the false bottom. There was only one more thing left to fully open this damn thing. There was a pattern that I had to make with the sliding squares. In the end it made up a very ornate owl. One that looked familiar to me for some reason. 

That doesn’t matter though, the false bottom was finally open and all of the documents were in there. I didn’t have time to sort through them all, so I took them all. Stuffing them into the bag that I brought, I repositioned all of the pieces back into place and closed the box, ready to make my exit.

Except something made me stop in my tracks. Some strange feeling that was telling me to go back and get something. I turned to the box again, staring at it, wondering what was up with it. My hand touched the dragon's face pondering the question, what was left to open on it? With that thought, the foxes mouth opened, a scroll was pushed out of its mouth. Fucking hell! Did I…did I do that?! Did I just break a magical seal?!

There were footsteps off in the distance and one of my butterflies fluttered in my ear as a warning. Shit. Have to get out of here. Hiding for the moment was the best option as I reposition the bag in my pocket. Some of the butterflies made their way back onto my cuffs, my light extinguished for now. As soon as the security’s footsteps were distant, I made my way out the way I came. I made it back up on the first floor ready to make my exit. There was no time to catch my breath, only to make it out of here without interference. 

I was out in the main hall when I heard someone call out to me. Not by name, just in general. It was a good thing that there were people about for me to use as a barrier. It would be easy to slip out without any trouble. They had no proof that I was down in their storage and they couldn’t detain me without reason. I slipped off into the night, still disturbed by what happened.

I should have hailed a cab to take me back to Balthazar’s. It’s what any logical person would do. Guess I’m not logical tonight for I found myself walking the streets aimlessly, thinking.

First the unexplainably bursts of magic, now strange compulsions that lead to hidden compartments opening to a single thought. I don’t like where this is heading and what’s worse, there was a mix of emotions when it came to a certain man. 

On that thought it occurred to me that I couldn’t do this alone anymore. I couldn’t tell Baltazar or Veronica, I didn’t want to drag them into this and they would worry constantly. Dave wouldn’t have any answers, he’s too young and focused on his own life at the moment. I couldn’t hand him something like this after the last few years he had been training and dealing with the near apocalypse.there was only one person I could think of that could understand what was happening and he was the cause of my mixed emotions. 

The cell was to my ear, number already dialled without even thinking, as if it was muscle memory.

“Hello?” I never thought his voice would bring me any comfort. It should make me wary but here we are.

“Maxim, it’s Eowyn.”

“Yes, I know that. You’re the only one with this number.” He gave it to me after the event that made me concerned about my grasp of my magic stating it was because our communication was lacking. Which was true, having us show up in the middle of the was getting tedious without proper warning. Though there was another reason I believed he gave it to me. The keeping tabs on me kind of reason. “The question that is burning in my mind is why? Aren’t you off on an adventure?”

“Can’t I call just because?” I teased, my voice giving away something for him to call my bluff.

“You wouldn’t do that. You would have a reason and what reason has yet to be given.”

“I’m…worried that something is wrong or happening to me.” The sigh of relief that left me almost made me cry.

“There is nothing wrong with you.” His tone was so matter of fact. “Honestly, whatever is making you think that is ridiculous.”

“A lot of things are making me think like that actually.” There was a bit of irritation in my voice, but it quickly went away because he really didn't know what was going on. It was fair to judge when he had little information to go off of. “The magical surges and innate feelings that cause secret compartments to open. Not to mention I have noticed my spells have more power to them. And there are definitely other things.”

“Where are you at the moment?” He asked.

“I don’t see how answering that will help, you’re across the pond.”

“I may not be depending on the answer.” I stopped at the intersection. Why wouldn’t he be in England?

“Anywhere near New York City?” I said as a joke.

“I was outside of the city limits earlier.” Well then, that was certainly convenient. “And before you accuse me of anything, it was for my own business.”

“Oh, I wasn’t going to. It is just convenient. How fast can you get here?”

“I am already here.” As soon as he said that I ran into a large chest, an arm around my shoulder, the fur trim in my mouth. “You really should pay more attention to where you are walking.”

“How…” He took my phone and ended the call as I was coughing up some fur. 

“Can’t give away all my best spells sweetheart. Now what seems to be troubling you?”

Chapter Text

The two of us were only walking a short time before Ewoyn shared what happened. It is all so fascinating; the power surges, knowing knowledge innately, even the physical manifestation of her magic changing. And it is all connected to that gem around her neck which is appearing more silver by the day. I had a few theories as to why though none of my books, journals or documents could support it with any evidence. The only one that I could get any information from her library, and even then it wasn’t complete

Maybe I am going about this all wrong. “Eowyn?”

“Yes?” At this point she convinced me to take a stroll in Central Park. Her reasoning was that it was such a beautiful night out and she wished to not be alone. Though there was something more beautiful in my presence at the moment and who am I if not a gentleman to deny her such fancy.

“Tell me your family's history.” That made her stop in her tracks.

“Why?”

“Humor me.”

“Well, it’s not the best.” She returned to walking and proceeded to jump up onto the edge of a fountain. “I’m an only child, my father English, my mother French. They died in a car crash when I was six and that’s how I ended up on the streets of Paris. I wasn’t the only one on those streets though, there were a few of us that stuck very close together.”

“As much as I would be interested in that part, I’m more interested in your parents.” Perhaps another day I could dig into her childhood and training.

“My parents?” She jumped down from the edge and sat on the cold stone. “I didn’t take you for someone who would be interested in human scholars.”

“Only when they are connected to you.” I tipped her chin with the jewelled end of my cane to make her look at me. “Scholars, you say?”

“Yeah.” She took a hold of my cane, pulling it towards her. I humoured her and let her have it knowing that she wouldn’t do anything. “My father worked at the British Museum. He would bring me there all the time when my mother was out at the libraries, mostly doing her own research for her classes at the University of Cambridge. She would bring me along from time to time. They weren’t anything special, just two adults that loved history.

“It’s obvious where you get your love for history and preserving it though. I would say that is something very important. What did your mother teach?” I sat next to her, hand on her thigh, waiting for my can to be returned to me.

“She taught ancient and mediaeval history and mythology.” She stood, twirling the cane in her hand. Her warmth went with her as she started to pace. “She would tell me the stories of King Arthur and his Knights of the Roundtable.” A silver streak went across the space above her head. “She would share the story of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight with me more than the others.” As she said that, that particular story played out amongst the silver. “I think she was trying to tell me to be honest.”

“We both know that you are a terrible liar so I commend her for her efforts.” That earned me a laugh from her. I don’t believe I have ever heard her genuinely laugh before. Snarky, sarcastically, and even flirtatious, but never this. It was much different.

“Or so you keep telling me. I have no problem lying to other people.” She kept twirling the cane in her hand.

I stood and placed my hand over the one that was holding the cane, stopping her from moving it. “Or,” Using my magic, I changed the scene above us. “I can read you better than others.” My blue magic mixed with her silver, showing her my memories of her trying to pull fast ones on me. “It’s your eyes. No matter how hard you try, it always gives you away.”

Another laugh from her. “Remind me to never play cards with you then.”

“I believe we have gotten off track.” I tipped her chin towards me with my hand. “You were telling me about your family. Did you not have any extended family that could care for you after the death of your parents?”

The silver and blue wavered and warped. It seems I have struck a nerve. “They don’t exist to me if I don’t to them.” Flashes of red appeared in the magic before quickly disappearing. The anger that was radiating off of her was very telling. “I’m a Whitmore of my own making, I don’t need them.”

“I can’t believe your father’s family would toss you aside.” Given that she used the name Whitmore, I assumed it was her father’s family that would do such a thing.

“Opposite actually.” The venom that was dripping from her voice was apparent, making my assumption wrong. “My mother’s family. My father had no extended or close relatives. He always insisted that I take my mothers name instead of his.”

“Which is…”

“Morringstone. I don’t know why they hated him and me in turn.” Hmmm? I never thought of it before due to how common Whitmore is and with me thinking she made a name up for an identity but perhaps there is more to her lineage than she knows.

“I will have to do some research when I return to Egland.”

“Research?” That broke out of her rage induced trance. “What kind of research?”

Her question gave me a wonderful idea. “We can discuss more of it if you wish.” I offered her my hand, the warmth from hers wrapping around it. “But we should get out of this cold.”

“I see where you are going with that. I must politely decline. It’s late enough as it is and I am needed elsewhere.” She removed her hand and returned my cane to me.

“Returning to the home of Balthazar Blake it seems, hmmm?” There was no shock look or suprise when presented with this information.

“Yes. it would be rude of me not to return. Plus, my flight back home is the day after tomorrow and all my belongings are there. Maybe when I have settled back home we can figure something out.”

I took her hand back into mine and kissed it softly. “I shall hold you to that sweetheart.”

I was tossing around in bed trying my hardest to fall asleep. Or fighting it seems more apt. Bullocks. It was already after 3, there was no way I was getting any sleep tonight. 

I thought that if I held off reading the documents that would help me but that was proven wrong. Balthazar and Veronica offered to help me when I got back, but I had declined. If either of them found out that I was looking for Morgana’s encantus they would either try to stop me or disapprove. Which is why I didn’t leave with Maxim, they would most definitely disapprove. The two of them were like family to me, I couldn’t lose them too.

Damn it all! There’s no way I am going to sleep after that train of thought. How could I? Kicking back the blankets, I got up to sit in the bay window looking out towards the street. I have to admit, I do love their old brownstone. So much history is sitting there in the stone.

I sat there in my tanktop and shorts, holding my cell close to my chest. There was a debate in my head whether I should call him again. I shouldn’t bother him, what if he is sleeping? Toss it all, this arrangement has changed. For me at least. I swore I wouldn’t develop feelings and yet I have. Which will prove very dangerous for Maxim.

Without even thinking the phone was to my ear, the ringing made me realise that my heart had made a decision. It was too late to hang up when I heard his smooth voice on the other end. “Twice in one night. Did you change your mind about my offer, sweetheart?” 

“No.” I chuckled. “I just couldn’t sleep and it seems neither could you.”

“The time difference will do a number on you.” I could hear him move around, and maybe the sound of fabric was moving.

“Hold it, it’s not that kind of call.” I teased.

“I have no earthly clue as to what you’re talking about.” I could hear the smirk in his voice. “I was just preparing for bed.”

“Mhmm. sure you were.” There was a few moments of siemens between us.

“There seems to be something troubling you if you’re not sleeping. I’m guessing you have gone through what you found?”

“The opposite really. With everything that is happening, I guess I’m scared of what I will find. I mean, why was there a compartment magically hidden that I could open with just a thought. No spell or even a puzzle? Makes one worry that something is wrong.”

“As I have already said, there is nothing wrong with you.” HIs voice turned serious as if I have just landed a grave insult.

“Doesn’t mean I still won’t worry.” My voice wavered a little, giving away how troubled I really was.

“Then maybe I should get your mind off it, hmm?”

“Oh? I told you it’s not that kind of call.” He laughed at that.

“I had something else in mind.”

“And what would that be?” My interest was piqued. 

“First, where are you currently? Are you sitting down?” Seriously? Why was he keeping me in suspense?

“Maxim…” I threatened quietly.

“Humor me.”

“Fine,I’m sitting in the window seat. Why does that matter?”

“It matters if you fall asleep on me. I do wish you to be comfortable.”

“It’s comfortable enough now, spill.” It’s strange how excited I was for this which made me question more about our arrangement. It was never supposed to evolve this way. I shouldn’t have any feelings that would lead to something more.

“I’m going to tell you a story.”

Chapter Text

The one thing that I hate about the modern world is the traffic. Getting out of downtown London to where Eowyn lives took longer than if I were on foot back in the Victorian era. It was a good thing that she told me the time of her flight and that she would be arriving later in the day. It would give me enough time to look through her library.

Knowing her system is the biggest mess I have ever seen, it would be possible that she might have missed something. I have already guessed at what she’s after, so was I. Would she be angry with me, I have no doubt but what was she expecting? I wouldn’t stop my plans even with us together in this arrangement. Although, she does seem off as of late. Those power surges have really shaken her up. Seeing her like that, I do not like it.

I will not lie to myself, being with Eowyn has been enjoyable, a part of me wants to keep her from harm and by my side. The logical part of me knows that keeping her close and vice versa is beneficial to the both of us. I will have to let her go at one point for it was not feasible for us.

Ah, good. I made it to my destination and was able to leave all of those thoughts for the moment. The spells she has around the place were mere child's play. I entered her shop and home, remembering where everything that I had seen before was. Climbing up the spiral staircase to her library, the thought occurred to me that I could also look for the place where she hides the items she procures on her excursions. It would have to be close by.

Gah, she really was a disorganised mess. It is impossible to find anything here. After skimming through not even a third of this mess, something odd caught my eye. A shelf of books at the top seemed very out of place. Climbing up the ladder I saw that there were novels that took up the space. I could see it being in her living space, but here? Hmmmm? Keeping such trivial books in a library such as this, Eowyn. It seems out of character. I pulled one of them out and turned the pages to find them blank. The other five were as well. Interesting.

Knowing her there was most likely a puzzle involved with this. A hidden compartment perhaps? I looked over the blank books again and noticed that the spines were incomplete. As if they were parts of words waiting to be put together. No one would have even noticed given that they were on the top shelf and this library was a mess. I see why you were so insistent on the mess sweetheart.

But what could it spell out? Something meaningful to her. I thought back to the other night when she told me about her life and how her mother would tell her stories. Ah, easy enough to figure out. The letters spelled out Sir Gawain. She must really love that story for that was the name she gave one of my wolves. 

Placing all of the books in order, there was a click and the noise of something moving. One of the shelves moved slightly in response. A secret room. No surprise, the building was very old even with the modern renovations. Possibly used during war times. Let’s see what you are hiding sweetheart.

I closed it behind me and walked down the stairs into the dark. There was no modern lighting as I descended, the light from my cane was my only source until I made it to the bottom. There were some oil based lanterns that could illuminate more but not by much. I looked towards the ceiling and saw two iron chandeliers. With a bit of magic they were lit instantly, showing everything that she has collected over the years. Most of the small items were protected by glass casing, the bigger items had a spell around them. Interesting. There was a table in the corner that held the most important item she had. Her encantus.

Let’s see what we got here. 

It was common information; normal spells that are taught to beginner students of magic, basic history of our kind, just nothing. That was until I got to the pages of those who have owned it and the spaces for the future owners. The photo of the man before Eowyn and two other men looked very familiar. As if I have known him in passing. But that would be impossible. From the looks of it, it would seem that that was her master, a man with an oval-shaped face, longer  brown hair that reached his shoulders, green eyes that were behind round glasses and the two other men were owners at the same time. Those two looked the same age as Eowyn; one with a heart shaped face, silver hair and light grey eyes and the other with a square face, grey-brown eyes and long dark brown hair. Who were they to her I wonder? All I had to go off of was this damn photo. Quiet a query. 

The book closed on me with a snap, nearly catching my fingers. The flame flickered above me and went out. It would seem I have company then. In the darkness a force pushed me away from the table and in response, I relit the chandeliers with a flame that wouldn't go out unless I deem it. Eowyn stood there in the middle of the room, the encantus missing from the table but it wasn’t in her hands. She was still wearing a long coat that had a silver fur trim around the collar.

“You landed early it seems. I was expecting you much later.” I could feel the anger radiate off her yet something seemed off about it all. 

“Why in the bloody hell are you down here?!” The fury in her voice couldn't even match all of the other times I have seen her this way.

“I thought to surprise you but it seems I have found your work space.” I took a step towards her. She didn’t make a move.

“I would think you would offer me the same courtesy of not snooping around like I have for you, you tosser.” A magical silver thread wrapped around her fingers. There was the missing silver glow from it. “I guess I should’ve known better.”

“There’s no need for such petty insults. You’re above that.” The thread that was around her fingers was thrown out, becoming a rope, and around my forearm, wrapped tightly but still allowed blood flow. “Come now, there is no need for such a spectacle.”

“I beg to differ.” She pulled tight, ice formed on the ground though it would appear it came from behind me instead of from her. It made me falter a little but I still stood my ground “What did you take?!”

I glanced behind me to see a small shadow out of the corner of my eye move to the left. “I have not taken anything of importance. Merely doing my own research.” I pulled on the rope, testing her resolve. “If we fight you will lose.”

“Try me.” There. There it was. The small difference. The way her eyes didn’t change at my challenge, the way her stance didn’t change to be more defensive. This wasn’t the true Eowyn.

“Very well.” I pulled even harder, forcing her to fall forward. To her credit, she regain her footing rather quickly.

The ice that was under my foot turned to a puddle and crept up my leg freezing instantly. As if that would hold me. I broke it with the end of my cane immediately and dodge before an eclectic blast hit me. It didn’t seem strong as if she was holding back. I followed the trail in which it came and saw the same shadow. I got you now . 

When the imposter Eowyn tried to hit me again with a plasma bolt, I pulled her forward, close enough for me to wrap the rope around her. How quickly ice formed on it, it went up my arm as well as her. The biting cold would not deter me from winning. With my cane in my free hand, I sent one of my knives out with magic to where the shadow would be, landing just a few inches from her face into a wooden support beam.

“If you really wish to fight me, then how about do it yourself sweetheart? Don't let your reflection do all the dirty work.” The imposter Eowyn faded into shadow as the real Eowyn stepped out of the shadows, encantus under her arm. “You really thought I wouldn't be wise to your trick? I thought you knew me better than that.” 

There was the defensive stance I was looking for. The fire in her eyes burned with anger, her hand twitching ready to take action. I threw the rope fast and it caught around her leg. As I pulled, she fell to the ground, the encantus sliding out of reach though she wasn’t the type to stay laying down. Fog came out of nowhere, hiding her from view though we were still connected. I should have guessed from earlier encounters that she prefers to use elemental magic over the others. A fire ball came out of the fog which I easily caught in my protected sphere.

“Fire in a place like this? Dangerous move sweet fox.” I taunted her. I followed the rope that connected the two of us and sent an electric shock through it. I heard her yelp in pain, but my worries were gone the second I heard her growl. I would never admit it, I was also holding back. The last thing I want to do is severely hurt her. “Can we now speak like component adults or are we going to continue this little sparring match?” 

She was still standing and still trying to get the rope off her leg. “I’m surprised you didn’t think I was going to use your own little trick against you.”

“Bugger off.” She made a move to where the encantus was thrown off. Looking fo a spell no doubt to help her win this little spat.

“I don’t think so.” With a wave of my can I slowed her down, but she broke through it after a few seconds. There’s no way that could’ve happened unless…a new theory on what was going on with her came to mind. I just needed something to make sure it was true. In the meantime, I’ll have to use something else to stop her.

Her hand barely touched the cover of the book when shadows encased it and brought it over to me. “I believe I have won this match of ours. Better luck next time I suppose. There will be plenty of times for a rematch I’m sure.” The shadow form wrapped around her body keeping her in place. “I do like seeing you like this though in a different setting.”

All she did was glare back, her mouth in a set firm.” Come now, I don’t see why this angers you? You knew that eventually this would happen.” I placed my hand under her chin and held her face. “Given the opportunity, you would have done the same.” That deflated her a bit, some of the fiery rage in eyes calmed. She knew I was right.

“Maybe if you had waited, I would have brought you down here myself.” Oh, so this was about trust.

“How very noble but again you should’ve known that you can’t trust me.” I tilted her head up a little more, dismissing the shadows so her arms were free. “You seem to forget who I really am.”

“I haven’t forgotten. I just thought maybe…” She shut her mouth before finishing her sentence. 

“What?” I inquired.

“I thought you would badger me more about it until I caved in.” Quick to answer though I am most assured that it wasn’t the original thought she wanted to say. Though that snarky tone was back which meant most of her anger was gone.

“I would’ve, yes. But due to the fact I was waiting for you here and thought it wise to go through that mess you call a library for anything you missed, how could I have not come down here?”  The truth seemed to ease her more, though she was still wary. “I had no intention to take anything…this time.”

“Truly? How come I don’t believe that first part?” She crossed her arms and back away from touch.

“Believe what you want.” I snapped my fingers and the rope coiled at her feet. “If you are going to use a magically made rope, perhaps make the spell stronger so no one slide can use it.” I snapped my fingers again and it was gone.

“And maybe you could show me how you made those shadow come to life and interact with physical things.” I chuckled at that.

“Only if you hold up your end of the deal with that reflection spell.” She flinched at that. Did she really think I would just forget about that? “Now, shall we continue our conversation upstairs?”

She stepped forward and held out her hand. “Will you hand that over?” She motion to her encantus.

“Of course.” She clutched it to her chest as she turned and walked up the stairs leading out of work space.

“You coming or what?” She yelled as the light was extinguished by me.

I followed closely behind her while thinking about the new theory I had about her new sense of power. It all hinges on what she found in New York.

After switching out of her contacts into those oval shaped glasses of hers, she made work of making some tea, being silent. Her encantus was sitting in the middle of the table in her kitchen. She trusted me not to look through while she was busy. A cup and saucer were placed in front of me as Eowyn sat on the opposite side, stirring hers quietly.

“Come now, you have been silent for the entire time and barely touched your cup.”

She sighed but didn’t look at me. “I was wondering if you found anything I missed.”

“No, I didn’t find anything useful.”

“And you’re not lying to me, are you?” She still wouldn’t look at me.

It would seem the trust we had is strained though not entirely broken. Best to show a little good faith. “I would not nor have I ever lied to you. There is no point to it.”

“So, would you answer any questions I have?” She finally looked at me with a raised brow, questioning me.

“Within reason.”

“Then what are you truly after with me? It can’t be because I’m useful or my magic is unstable at the moment, for you only just learned of that not too long ago?” She must have spent a lot of time thinking about this.

“That would be true, there are a few other reasons.” I place my hand under my chin, pondering for a moment on what I should divulge to her. “Your skill mostly. They are useful in what I am looking for.”

She squinted her eyes watching me as if I was about to pounce. “And that is?” 

"I am willing to bet it is the same exact thing you are searching for.” Her eyes went wide at that. “I am surprised though. Did you really think you were the only one searching for it? Many have died in that pursuit. They were all killed by me, but it made me wonder. You are the only one that has ever been this far in the search and under my radar this whole time. It made me think that perhaps two people combined would be able to find it.”

She leaned back a little, it would appear that she is ready to run if need be. I thought we were past that kind of thing. “And what would you do with it in the end?”

“Contrary to popular belief, I don’t wish that kind of power to be left in the hands of any poor excuse of a sorcerer. I would keep it locked up. What about you?” Eowyn sat there in silence, taken aback by what I said, which was only mostly true. There was one spell I wanted to get out of it for myself.

After a minute of silence she finally let out a sigh. “I want to undo a terrible mistake that I have made.” What on Earth could she have done that was so terrible that she would want to use the book?

“A noble pursuit.”

She seemed upset by that. “Would there be any other reason?”

“For what?” I said with a suggestive smirk.

“For being around me?” Ah, yes there was another reason.

I reach my hand out to hers, grasping it tight. “It could be because of the agreement we have and both enjoy.” Not the full reason, but close enough.

“You’re hiding something…” She stopped before continuing, being very careful not to share anything.

“Non, no. Share your thoughts.” I urged.

“Don’t worry about it.” She was dodging, trying to escape the conversation by getting up and walking into her small kitchen. There was definitely something different about her and it wasn’t her magic this time.

“Very well. Am I forgiven for a little tiff?”

“I can’t really be angry at you when it’s something I would’ve done, so…partially forgiven.” There was a bit of the teasing tone back in her voice which was good to hear.

“Only partially?”

“Well, yeah. I was going to, eventually, bring you down there myself but you ruined it.”

“Ah, a surprise that I have ruined. I am sure there will be plenty of surprises in the future.”

“And the fact you looked through my own encantus.” She moved it a little as she got up to put her still full cup in the sink.

Which led me to think of something. “Perhaps there is another way I can earn your forgiveness.”

“I thought you were the type who would not care about it. Doing whatever you like with little care towards others.” She waved her hand dismissively, not believing me at all. 

“I am, but with you it is best to get along with our common goal.” I stood and took her hand in mine. “I can’t have you angry at me and while my back is turned you, you do something else.”

“I see.” She tried to remove her hand from my grip, but I  held fast. “Well then, you should be going.”

That is not happening. Not until I see what she has brought back from New York. Another idea struck me. “Do you still have those documents on you from New York?”

“Yes…why?” So quick to answer, yet so slow to move. Although she wasn’t expecting it this time around.

With her hand still in mine, I pulled her close, trapping her in my arms. “Then it would be my honour to host you fro the evening, sweetheart.”

“What?! I don’t think so. Afterall, I’ve already had a long trip and my plans for the night are right there in my bed.” With her free hand she pointed to her humble bed, all the…not so innocent thoughts entered my mind. Though I’m betting she was talking about sleeping off the jet lag she no doubt had.

“What if I said there might be something of interest there for you?”

“I would say you would have to kidnap me then cause I am not going anywhere tonight.” She challenged me. There was a smirk on her face and mischievous glint in her eye. Did she really think I wouldn’t follow through on her little challenge?

“Oh, very well.” There was a little flicker of excitement in her eyes. “Challenge accepted.”

Chapter Text

Oh, he was in so much trouble the minute he walked through that door. Not for the “kidnapping”, but for just leaving me here alone an hour. That man is so frustrating and damn it it confuses me everytime I’m with him. How can he make me so angry with him one minute and horny the next?

Gawain was laying at my feet sleeping though on guard in case I did something. My foot was tapping on the dark blue rug that covered a big portion of Maxim’s study. Bloody hell, how long is going to make me stew? The ticking clock was so loud, I was going to go insane first before he came back.

That’s it!

I rose from the chair I was sitting in and startled Gawain with my sudden movement as I made my way to the door. He was right beside me as I made my way out of Maxim’s study. Huh? I swear I heard him lock it behind him. It wouldn’t pass me that he tricked me though.

Out in the hallway, both Gawain and I walked side by side as I took note of all the details I missed the last time. I memorised some of this place before yet I still had no idea where his kitchen was.

“Hey, Gawain?” The wolf looked up at me. “Could you lead me to the kitchen?” He nodded, walking past me as the lead. I’ve always debated on whether or not Maxim told me the truth about them being actual wolves. Their intelligence is much higher than I would have expected given that they understand me completely. He claims that he has never lied to me, only omitted information, though that could also be a lie. Looking back on previous conversations, it would seem that he would have no reason to. 

The soft bark Gawain gave got my attention as I didn’t move with him. “Right, sorry. How rude of me.”

I followed him down the hall, down the foyer stairs and then turned left to enter, to my surprise, a very modern kitchen. With how everything else looks here, I would think a little bit more rustic. 

I was rifling through his fridge to find something quick to eat. I didn’t get the chance to when I got home, and of course he distracted me from everything. 

It was only a few moments of going through things when a hand covered mine, startling me for a second. “When I pictured you snooping, I never thought it would be my fridge.”

“That’s what happens when you kidnap a girl who hasn’t eaten since she got off the plane.” My retort made him chuckle.

“Says the one who gave me the idea.” He took a step back to let me pass and motioned towards a bar stool. “If you wouldn’t mind, I shall remedy your hungry state. Now sit.”

I did but I wasn’t going to allow him the satisfaction of him getting what he wanted, so I sat on the counter in defiance. There was no retort from him, only a glint in his eyes that would suggest he has something planned. He returned to digging around in the fridge and pulled out some chicken and broccoli. “I’m surprised.” He started to cook the chicken in a pan with some herbs and aromatics. “You spent more time in my study than I anticipated.”

“Didn’t know the door was unlocked. Besides, you left me a chaperon.” 

“He wouldn’t have done much. He was only there to keep you out of trouble.”

“That sounds more like you than me. Trouble I mean.” I was still a little peeved that he entered my inner sanctum and vault without me. “You have to swear to me that you won’t tell anyone about the vault.”

“Why?” He looked over his shoulder as he flipped the chicken.

“There were only two people who knew about the vault before you. My master and myself.”

“And why do you still call him your master instead of his name when you yourself are a fully trained sorcerer?”

“That’s because I…I” I had to stop myself before revealing anything that had happened. “He disappeared when I was a teenager. I had to teach myself everything else to reach my degree.”

“Ah, there’s more to that story. Tell me.” Of course he would pick up on my hesitation.

“I can’t.” It was because of me that he was gone and I didn’t want to think about it. Not until I can fix it. “Please?”

“I can tell that it gives you pain to even think about it, so very well.” I let out a breath that I didn’t know I was holding. He placed a plate of glazed chicken and steamed broccoli next to me. “It might be easier to eat if you were sitting at the counter, not on it.”

Maxim invaded my space, his hands on either side of my thighs, dangerously close to touching them. “Or if you wish, we could eat later.”

“I have a feeling you wish to devour something else?” The hand on my back proved me right.

“Or someone.” His other hand went to hold my face as he leaned into my body.

“It could be fun.” I placed a kiss on his cheek. “Except I’m hungry for food first and you still have yet to swear that you won’t tell anyone about the vault. So you’ll just have to wait.”

“I shall not tell a soul about your vault.” He sealed the deal with a kiss. “Now eat.”

“It would be helpful if I could get to it.” He backed away and offered a hand to help me down. “Thank you.” When my feet touched the floor, I was wrapped up in his arms.

“When you’re finished, you’re all mine for the evening.” That grin was a promise.

I stepped under his arm and grabbed the plate. “Well then, I guess I’ll get to it.” I took a small bite of the simple dish and I couldn’t believe how delicious it was. Or how hungry I really was. I was going to prolong my eating to make him torture him but it was quickly gone. The moment I was finished, I was in his arms again.

“Now, where was I?” My arse was back on the counter, Maxim’s hands already working to remove my clothing. I made quick work on his vest and shirt. It became almost a race to see who could undress the other the fastest.

My hand wrapped around his neck, pulling him closer for me to kiss. His response to that was a growl that made me shiver in anticipation. In turn, I smiled. It was good to know that I was able to cause such a reaction from him. This was going to be fun.

I deposited my darling Eowyb onto my bed, a place she should never have to leave. Her protests were amusing when I dropped her, the fire in those sapphire eyes burned bright with passion and mischief. Even though she was successful in removing my shirt and vest leaving me bare chested, she was only in her undergarments. Our little race seemed to be won by me.

She grabbed the waist of my pants and pulled me towards her. I do recall the last time we had a conversation that didn’t involve us fighting, she implied that she wanted to be in charge. Well, I am all for it.

I removed her hands in order to lay beside her . she caught on very quickly and straddled me. “It looks like you’ll be at my mercy tonight.”

“For now.” I smirked. She leaned down and placed both her arms on either side of my head, kissing me thoroughly. I reached behind her back and undid the clasp of her bra to leave her bare chested.

Her lips met mine again in a fiery passion that I have never expected from her. Hell, I never experienced this in my life. Even when I thought I was in love with Veronica. All those thoughts left as she gripped my cock in her hand. “Very forward, Miss Whitmore.”

“I thought the direct approach would be more your speed.” Her words were accompanied by her stroking me.

“You would be correct in that statement.” My hands were around her waist, putting her in the perfect position.

She responded perfectly by placing the tip in between her folds and took every bit of it, sitting in perfection on top of me. I could see her shudder and it pleased me so to know I could elicit those kinds of reactions. I moved her slightly, to toy with her a bit. That small maon that escaped her and her skin was electric. It made me realise something. She truly was the perfect counterpart to me.

I would have dwell on that revelation later. My sweet fox wasn’t done with me yet.

She moved quick rhymes, one that I was happy to keep up with. My hand cupped her breast, massaging it making her speed up. How beautiful her face was when she came, but this night wasn’t over yet.

My centre of gravity shifted in my post orgasmic bliss as Maxim moved and was on top of me. “Guess it’s your turn then?”

“You would be correct, for now.” He slowly moved inside of me. “We do have all night after all.” With each word he sped up, his hand playing with my clit. How quickly he works. I gripped his shoulders, my nails digging into his skin. There will definitely be marks later. Before bringing me over the edge again he removed himself from me.

“Stand up.” He demanded. I listened, wanting his touch to return. “Good. Turn around.” I did so, his growl of approval made my stomach flutter with anticipation. “Now,” his hand went around my throat gently while his arm held me close, “are you ready?” I shook my head yes. “Say it.”

“Yes.” I said clearly. He leaned me forward slightly as I felt him enter me again and moved so fast that I came immediately. It felt so good. I clenched around him tightly as his grip tightened on my throat. He pulled me back toward him and kissed my neck, leaving a small bite mark behind as he nipped me. 

He pulled out as I could hear his grunts and warm cum on my skin. His panting mixed with mine and he pulled me close. After a minute or so,he caught me before I collapsed from exhaustion and pleasure. 

“Would you care for a shower or rest, sweetheart?”

“Shower first. And maybe you could join me.”

He chuckled at that. “How could I say no to that?”

Chapter Text

I found Eowyn going through some of my extensive collection of books in my study. When I awoke to find her missing I knew she had to be snooping. What I didn’t expect to find was her sitting in my chair behind my desk, feet propped up, book in hand and only my shirt covering her.

“This is a surprise.” I went behind her and tilted her chin up. “Why is my little fox sitting in my chair?”

“Catching up on some reading.” She turned the page to reveal it was a spell book. “I have never heard of these.”

“My library dates back to very early magic. I’m not surprised you don’t know of them.” I began to massage her shoulders.

She took my hand and stood. “Why don’t you join me in a more comfortable spot?”

“And do what exactly?”

“Discuss everything that we both know about Morgana’s encantus.” Ah, yes the thing we should’ve talked about earlier.

“Well, since you asked so nicely…” She handed me a small bag and, to no surprise, enlarged it with magic.

“Everything is in here. I guess it is a good thing you asked if I had it before you kidnapped me.” I caught that mischievous lilt in her voice. 

“If I recall, you were the one who suggested it.” She pulled me along and made herself comfortable on the couch, legs crossed under her with papers in her hands. I took a few from her without even asking as I sat next to her. “Now, I know that there are three keys to unlock it from whatever binds it. I already have two of them thanks to you. The missing piece is a chalice.”

“None of my research ever indicated that.” She looked up from the delicate paper. Her glasses fell forward a little and she did not do anything to fix it.

“You wouldn’t find it. That information is only for those in the know.” I pushed her glasses up. “Tell me, why are you scared to read that scroll?” 

Her eyes darted to the one thing that could actually prove useful in our search. “I…it was how I acquired it that scared me. You know that.” She held the scroll in her hands. “Besides, I probably can’t read it. It seems very old.”

I held out my hand for it. “Very well.” The second it was in my grasp, there was heat and it seared my hand. I dropped it immediately. There was something that felt familiar but I wasn’t a hundred percent sure yet. “Damn it!”

“What? What happened?” I tried touching it again, the same thing. Eowyn reached down and grabbed it again. 

“It would appear a charm has been placed over it. Only you can read sweetheart.” I rubbed the pain away in my hand, watching her as she took a deep breath in.

“Fine, but you are still going to read it with me.”

“Of course.” She proceeded to make her way onto my lap, scroll in hand. My arms went around her in pure instinct. “Go on, open it.”

The second she did, a powerful burst of magic pulsed past us. As I suspected, it had Merlin’s magic written all over it. “Shit. I knew it. I knew there was more to it.” Within her shock, she almost dropped it if it weren’t for my hand around her wrist.

“Now there is no need for such crass language. I can assure you that it was just a safety measure. Now, do you want me to read it?” Leave it to the bastard to write it in a dead language. Eowyn fixed her gripped on the scroll to give me a better look at what was written. “It says, ‘I have made it impossible to find, only Aurthur knows of its location and he has sworn to secrecy. I have left many scrolls in his hands to make sure they are hidden. Only when all are together will the location be revealed. When the Prime Merlinean is found, they must destroy it. No one should have that kind of power. The charm should protect this and only the Prime Merlinean or someone equal to in power may touch it. I pray it has fallen into the right hands.’ Hmmmm?”

“Hold on. That said, someone equal to Dave’s power. How can I be as powerful…” She stood in a frenzy, pacing in front of me.

“It must be what’s around your neck giving you the boost in magic. Not you. There is no need to panic.” I grabbed her hand to stop her from her pacing. “What of the other scrolls do you think? I assume there are multiple, but how many is the question?” Hand still in mine, I lounged as I watched her calm down.

Eowyn took a deep breath, the wheels turning in her head. “I don’t know. No one ever said quests were easy. Though I might know a bloke who can lend a hand in figuring this out, but we have to be careful.” 

“Why is that?”

“I have the feeling that something or someone is keeping tabs on me. And for once it’s not you.” She finally freed her hand from my grasp and crossed her arms. “I don’t think my friend would like it if I brought along someone he didn’t know, especially a Morganian.”

“Ah, I see. Well we wouldn’t want him to worry then.” There was a bit of a bite to my tone. A part of me didn’t want anyone else getting involved. I just want it to be the two of us only. “Besides, I have my own contacts that could help in this endeavour.”

Her brow raised at my tone and that mischievous smirk brightened her whole mood. “Oh, is the great and powerful Maxim Horvath jealous? I never thought I would see it.”

“Oh sweet fox, I don’t have to worry. You would know if I were truly jealous.” I crossed my leg over my knee, watching her intently.

“And you don’t have anything to be jealous about.” Eowyn leaned forward and tapped the tip of my nose. Before she could retreat, her hand was back in mine and I pulled her back onto my lap, her laugh made me chuckle as well. “Like I said, there is nothing to be jealous about. He’s one of my best friends and I’ve known him since we were kids.”

“Noted.”

“And while you are speaking to your contacts, I would hope that my name will not be mentioned.” She held my face in her hand, her thumb caressing my cheek.

I took her hand from my face, holding it tight. “I wouldn’t risk you.” I kissed her knuckles. “How could you even think that I would?”

She didn’t move, her body language didn’t give any information. Something was up, though I couldn’t ask her before she returned to her normal cadence. “Just covering my bases.” She leaned forward and kissed my cheek. “I'm gonna go and make the call.” And with that, she was gone, off to find her phone.

I mulled over her reaction to my statement, something that I will have to investigate further. I will also have to find confirmation to my current theory of why that gem was connected to her. I didn’t tell her the last bit that I read, thankful she couldn’t read it. 

Merlin mentioned that Morgana’s heir would appear and come into their full power when the conditions were correct. What those were, he didn’t write it down. For the time being, I will be digging into her family history.

The plan was set. I would meet my friend in Spain, Maxim would do his own thing and we would get back together in Paris to meet half way to go over everything. And my darling friend decided to pick me up at the airport in all of his fanfare. Lucio Alejo, one of my best friends that I have known since my days in Paris, leaned against his old beat up car waving at me.

“Hola señorita. What an honour it is to have you grace this place with your beauty and striking blue hair.” Lucio proceeded to bow and I punched him in the shoulder. He stood to his full height which was a bit taller than me, laughing as he hugged me tight, the smell of his leather jacket he wore calmed my nerves. Damn I missed him. “Now, what brings you all this way down here that couldn’t be discussed over the phone.” His Spanish accent had only gotten thicker as he got older.

“Let’s discuss it over drinks. I would like to get settled first.”

“A woman after my own heart.” He opened the passenger side door for me. “I’ll take you to my place and then we’ll head to the local bar.”

“Sounds great.” He closed the car door behind me after I got comfortable. 

“So,” he started the car, it stalled for a moment until he hit the dash and it was up and running, “has anything changed since we last talked?”

“Oh, you know, the usual. Broke into a few museums, travelled the world, had to deal with Morganians, and in a current casual relationship with someone.” I looked in the mirror, making sure there was no one following us.

“Oh, a casual one? I have a feeling you want more?” Those grey-brown eyes bore into my soul and hit it right on the nose.

“Yeah, but you of all people should know why that can’t be.” He was a victim of the curse.

He stopped at the stop light. “That was all me and you know it.” We were almost in a deadly shootout that led to him being the one that got shot. Even though he was a talented sorcerer and potion maker, his mouth still got us in trouble. But being near me made sure tragedy always found us. “Besides, I’ve healed. And the ladies love the scar.”

“Only you would think that.” I punched him in the arm lightly. “Now focus on the road.” The light changed and he continued to drive forward. It was a good twenty minutes of us talking about nothing. That was until the missing part of our trio was brought up.

“Have you heard from Drew recently?” Our silver-haired companion, Lucio and I were inseparable, living our young lives as orphans on the street of Paris before being found by my master. I wasn’t going to leave them, so he took all of us, taught us basic magic and found respected sorcerers to train the two of them. Drew now spends most of their time in New Orleans, perfecting their divination magic. I don’t hear from them often but I do know if I ever needed help, they are always there.

“No, though I assume they’re very busy. They live in the heart of New Orleans after all.”

“Yeah, you’re right.” There was something that he was hiding. “That’s probably it.”

He stopped the car. “I guess we’re here?” 

Lucio’s home was an apartment building. “It’s not fancy like yours but it is home.”

“My place is cramped and musty smelling with all the antiques. I have to use magic to change the furniture to what I need just to be comfortable.” I stepped out of the car. “Yours is quaint and not far from the local bar.” 

“Ha! You haven’t been inside yet, though the bar is a nice touch I’ll give you that one.” He followed suit and stood beside me. He held his keys in a grand fashion. “May I welcome my dear lady of England to a lowly knight's abode.” I smacked his arm. “Ow, the lady disarmed me.”

“I swear you have more of an obsession with the Knight’s of the Roundtable than I do.” He grabbed my duffle bag and bowed a gesture for me to enter. “You are proving my point.”

He laughed at that.

We ended up drinking for hours. At this point it was nearing midnight as our reminiscing turned to a true discussion.

“You say you’re on a quest looking for scrolls hidden by King Arthur?!” That got him very excited.

“Keep your voice down.” I held his hand in mine, squeezing it as a warning. “I don’t know who is listening.”

“Mierda, you’re serious. Well, I can tell you that I don’t have any.” He sobered up real quick at that.

“I know that, but you are good at solving riddles.” I released his hand, taking another sip of my drink.

“And you are also good at puzzles, they are the same thing.” He also took a sip of his drink.

“Please Luc. I’m on a short timeline as it is. And the other person that is helping me is at a loss.” Or he wasn’t telling me something.

“Well, it’s Arthur right? He hid them?” He held his chin in his hand, thinking.

“According to Merlin’s scroll, yes.”

“Then look at the legends. Arthur was just a man after all even if he had magical help. He would have hidden them in something familiar to him, right?” He brushed a strand of his long brown hair out of his eyes.

“But that does not determine the amount of them. Merlin left out that information.” Unless…

“The knights.” We both said at the same time.

“There are twelve knights, so in total twelve scrolls. He must have entrusted them to the knights.” My excitement was tampered down by two unsavoury men at the bar. “Maybe we should take the rest of this conversation back to your place.”

He followed my gaze. “Excellent idea querida.” He paid for our drinks quickly. “Besides, you have had a long trip. You got to be exhausted.”

We ended up walking out of the bar, going in the opposite direction of his home. “Hey, do you remember Brazil?”

“Of course I do. That was the time those thugs chased us into the new year celebrations. You were supposed to be the lookout.” I said.

“And you tripped the alarm.” Not one of my best jobs I will admit. “But remember how we lost them?”

Of course I did. We masquerade ourselves as a couple in the celebrations, dancing around other people. Ah, I see where he was going with this, but there was no big event happening.

“We’ll lose them in the nightclub around the corner.” Lucion pulled me into one of the buildings at the corner that had loud music playing. “Do you still think you have moves like when we were younger?”

“You’re the old man, not me.” I teased.

“The lady has struck my heart. I don’t think I will recover.” He held his chest as a joke, but I flinched a little knowing that it was right above it where the scar was.

I shook it off. “Come on you. Let’s lose them so we can get some sleep.” I pulled him onto the dance floor with the music loud, the bass louder. The two of us danced the opposite of eachother, both our eyes keeping an eye out for our tail. He would spin me every few minutes so we could switch places while also moving closer to the back exit. After about thirty minutes, it was clear we lost them. Just in case, I performed a misdirection spell. I didn’t want to leave anything up to chance.

“So who is after you querida?” He asked the second we left the club through the back exit.

“Honestly, there could be a number of people. I’m just hoping it’s not…” 

“That cabrón Phillip. I knew you shouldn’t have gotten close to him just to get a magical mirror.” Lucio knew all about that bastard and what he did.

“Yeah, yeah. I just never thought he would become obsessed. But he hasn’t bothered me since then so why now?” The worst decision I have ever made was getting close to that Morganian and all for a mirror that couldn’t help me in my current situation. After I took it, he wouldn’t stop following me and trying to kill me. Then he just disappeared. I thought it was a good sign. Now, not so much.

“Keep your eyes open and your wits about you. Morganians are really a pain in the arse.” His arm went around my shoulder for a tight side hug.

“Don’t I know it.” Except for one. He’s pretty good at other things. Gah, can’t let my thoughts drift like that. “I can say if they pick a fight with us, it wouldn’t go well for them.”

“We would be undefeatable if only…” His thoughts seem to drift off to times long gone.

“What happened between you and Drew? We used to be the three musketeers. Always together even when apart.”

He was silent for a moment. “When I was shot and you had to save my arse, we got into a fight. They said I was being reckless with your life as well as mine. I told them they wanted to be the smartest person in the room and control everything. I didn’t mean to say all that to them and it made them angry. They called me childish, selfish and reckless.” He sighed. “Haven’t talked to them since.”

“Do they know that it was my fault you got shot?! Or how about the fact you did the most selfless thing and took a bullet that was meant for me?! How could Drew say those things?” 

“It wouldn’t have mattered. You were the one we were worried about. A part of me believes that they know I would be fine but we always looked out for you.” He explained.

“Drew never told me…” This was all so shocking.

“They wouldn’t. Out of the three of us, they are the most secretive.” We finally ended up at his apartment, Lucio followed behind me as we made our way to the top floor. It was one of those historic buildings that was modernised on the inside. It was very nice and spacious in hsi own apartment.

“Here you are. You get my room tonight, I’ll take the couch.” Lucio motioned to his room.

I smiled at a memory. “Why does this remind me of Berlin, when you…” 

“Ah, ah, ah!” He put his hands up in defence. “We don’t speak of that. Would like to forget it actually.”

I laughed at that. “I will never let you live that down.” He threw a pillow at my face. “Hey!”

“What? I have to defend my honour.” He feigned innocence and pretended to faint on the couch, hand over his eyes, leg draped over the edge. 

“What honour?” I smacked him with the pillow. “You’re the biggest whore I ever knew.”

“What can I say, I’m a ladies man.” He sat up.” You should get some sleep. I have a feeling we’re gonna need it.”

Even when he is having a jest, he can be very serious. “I agree.” 

“I’ll do a little research before I go to sleep. Remember where everything is?”

“Yeah. I’ll see you in the morning.” I left the door slightly open just in case something bad happened and changed into my pyjamas which were off the shoulder loose t-shirt and sweatpants. The second I landed on the bed, I fell asleep instantly.

Chapter Text

“Eowyn, wake up!” Lucio’s frantic voice broke through my deep sleep. Something must be very wrong.

“What is it?” The first thing I noticed was the gun in his hand. “What’s happening?”

“We got company.” He threw me my shoes and bag. “We have to go.” My shoes were on in a heartbeat along with a jacket. “We’re gonna have to do something about that hair of yours.” Problem solved with a messenger cap. He nodded in approval and moved back out into the living room.

I followed him and stood on the opposite side of the widow, my back flush with the wall. The curtain had barely moved since we got back. Lucio was peeking behind it and I followed suit to see five people circling the place, maybe even more. “Shit, guess we didn’t lose them.”

“What trouble did you bring this time?” Lucio jokes. Even now he's still carefree.

“Want to stick around and find out?” I teased back.

“Nah, you slow them down out there while I open our escape route.” I had no idea what he meant by that but the first part was no problem.

A bit of thick fog should do the trick. With a wave of my hand and the spell in my mind, fog rolled them fast. They would know that something is up so I added a bit of flare. Illusionary shadow magic. Their shadows should hold onto them for a while. It was a good thing that Maxim taught me that spell. Which reminds me, I got to return the favour and teach him my spell.

“Amiga? Come on, I got it open.” The back wall was moved to reveal stairs that led down. He peered out the window. “Nice work, where did you learn that?”

“Oh, just something I picked up.” I wasn’t lying but I didn’t want him to know that a Morganian taught it to me just yet.

“Fair, let’s get out of here.” There was a part of me that said he didn’t believe me but he wasn’t going to challenge me on it.

I entered first as Lucio followed, closing the wall behind us, leaving us in the darkness. “What is this?”

“Old escape route that was used during the civil war. It leads to the tunnels under the building. We’ll use those and hop on a train heading out of Spain.” He explained.

“I despise trains.” They were a hassle to deal with and impossible to do anything on if something bad happens. They were also slow.

“It’s faster to get on one than a plane.” He snapped his fingers and a lantern was lit. “Let’s get moving.”

We made our way down, the tunnel he talked about opened to a drainage pipe that was pretty far from his apartment. There was no time to waste though. Who knows where possible eyes are.

The two of us sat on a train heading up North towards France. While I was laying on the bench in our overnight compartment, Lucio was sitting on the opposite side very alert.

“Luc, you need to get your rest. You’re no good when you’re tired.” I sat up and patted the bench for him to switch. “It might not be the most comfy, but it’s better than nothing.”

“We got out too easily.” He grumbled.

“What are you talking about?”

“They weren’t waiting for us at the station. It’s the obvious place we would go. We got away too easily.”

“Maybe or maybe we should take turns keeping watch. If I know anything about bad guys and villains, they’ll show up sooner or later.” I joked.

“This isn’t one of those old movies you like querida. Something bad is going to happen, I just know it.” The worry on his face and the way he touched his chest hurt.

I got up and sat next to him, hugging him in the process. “I promise, you won’t get shot again. Curse or no curse, I won’t let it happen.”

“You know the promises of the future, Eowyn. They are hard to keep.” He hugged me back. “But you’re right, I should rest.” He got up and went over to where I originally was and fell right to sleep.

Which led me to be alone with my thoughts. How did those bastards find us so quickly? And Lucio was right, we did get away easily. My instincts told me they were likely waiting for us to separate or make a mistake, to take us alone. Not going to happen.

I placed the strap of my duffle over my shoulder, ready to run as soon as trouble appeared. With a wave of my hand, I casted a charm to alert me if anyone unwanted crossed the boundaries I would know about it. I settled in for the long haul, staring out the window to watch the scenery pass by in a blur.

My search for the one that could answer my questions was proving to be difficult. It forced me to use others to find and detain them. I hate that I have to work with these poor pitiful excuses for sorcerers, but I am their de facto leader. I won’t have them interfere with my agenda.

Their information led me to Spain as I awaited news from the boots on the ground about one who called themselves the Seer. unlike Eowyn who was proud and never used the moniker the Collector, this individual was very secretive along with another known as the Alchemist.

A knock on the hotel door alerted me to a messenger. The note he had did not bode well, saying that the Seer had escaped and is now on a train heading to France. Men were on their trail though that wasn’t the distressing part. They had a companion with them. One with blue hair.

It had to be at least twelve hours now from when we got on this blasted train, the sun had begun to set. We had to take a connecting train and still, I felt as if people were watching the two of us. I casted the same spell as before, on edge. The moment we make it into Paris the better.

We sat in the train car, making plans on what to do when we got to Paris. We were going to contact Drew and share everything with them. Then take a flight to New Orleans.

At least that’s what we were going to do if my spell didn’t go off and then a second later a blast of energy took out the train car door. Lucio pushed me out the window which he had already broken to climb on top of the train as he fended off whoever attacked us. He followed soon after.

I helped him up and the two of us ran to the end of the train, jumping over the gaps and hoping that we could hop off. If it weren’t for the electro plasma bolt that flew past my head. 

The distraction was enough to allow our attackers to block our escape route. The two of us were back to back, looking at each other from the side.

“Remember Russia?” I knew exactly what he was referring to and nodded. “Good. On my count. One…two…three!” He ducked as I spun around him covering the area with a dense fog.

All different spells were fired off into the fog as both Lucio and I were crouched. If we could slip away back into the train, we could get off and be gone.

Except it didn’t work like that. Something coiled around my ankle and pulled me out of the fog. When I stopped moving, my back hurt from the metal. One of the Morganians stood above me. “Not the one we want, but you’ll do it for now.” He tried to grab a hold of me in my prone state but I grabbed his arm instead, kicking him in the gut and sending an electric pulse through his body. The thing around my ankle was invisible so I touched my ankle to disperse it.

I pulled a silver chain from my pocket and extended it. I threw one end out to him as I stood and pulled once it was wrapped around his leg. His body hit the metal with a thud.

The second one was ready with a quick fire bolt which I contained but wasn’t fast enough to avoid the plasma bolt that came next. I almost fell off the train if it weren’t for Lucio’s quick thinking of a metal slab to grab on to. I pulled myself back up and placed my hand on the metal roof causing ice to form under my two’s feet. 

“Eowyn, duck!” I turned to Lucio’s warning and saw a bridge coming up. Lucio was already down and I followed suit by hanging off the edge of the train, clutching my bag tight. The second the bridge was behind us, I pulled myself back up and noticed my two were gone.

Fully standing on top once again, I ran back over to help Lucio with his two. He ducked and I lept over him, my arm allowing me to roll over his back and kicked one of them in the face.

“You make a nice pommel horse.” I teased.

“Want to try out for the Olympics then?” He stood straight and punched the other in the face.

My guy tried to hold me against him but I was too nimble. I flipped him over my shoulder and trapped him ice, his head still free. Lucio dealt with his guy fast, leaving two gone and the other incapacitated.

“Well then,” I huffed, “wanna hop off this crazy train?”

“Yeah, no point in…” He shoved me as I heard a loud crack. Blood splattered against my cheek. Lucio was holding his shoulder, blood covering it, his gun pointing at the one who hurt him. “Go!” I followed the gun’s end to see who he was focused on, my heart in my throat.

“I’m surprised to see you here, Eowyn, with the Seer of all people. Then again, you always show up when there’s trouble.” No. No, no, no!

It couldn’t be him but that smooth voice, black hair and purple eyes. There was no mistaking it. “What’s the matter, love? Can’t say anything?”

“Phillip…” I growled.

“Eowyn, go!” Lucio yelled at me. “I’ll handle him.”

“I promised you that…”

“It wasn’t a bullet this time. Just me being stupid again. I’ll be fine, now go!”

I hated leaving him, but there was no way we could both escape.

It was hard to hold back tears. “Promise me…” 

“I’ll find you. Go!” And with that, he pushed me off the train with a blast of air. He knew I wouldn’t just leave him there so he made the decision for me.

There was a tree line close to the tracks and i casted a growth spell to have one of the branches catch me all the while tears streamed down my face.

I should have known my bad luck would have caught up to my friends, to my family but I swear I will find Lucio and save him. He shouldn’t be hurt because of me. Which made me think, Phillip called him the Seer. He doesn’t go by that name. He went by the Alchemist.

My phone was to my ear, calling Maxim to tell him the plans have changed.

“Eowyn.” He picked up after one ring, his voice sounding a little more frantic than I have heard before. “What happened?”

I brushed some tears away and took a deep breath before speaking. “He’s gone. That bastard has him! And I have no way of knowing where he’ll be or if he’s…” a sob broke through, “or if he’s dead.”

“Who Eowyn?” Again, I heard that frantic voice even though it was masked with his normal calm. 

“Lucio. Lucio Alejo. I came here to get his help and now he’s most likely…” I fell to the ground with a grunt, my shoulder hitting the hard ground hard. There was no time though, I had to get moving.

“Are you alright? Did you…”

I stopped him from continuing as I started to run. “Never mind about me. I have to get somewhere safe and contact my other friend. Maybe there’s a town nearby and I can…”

“Eowyn, stop!” I did, clutching my bag to me. He was angry. Why would he be angry?” “Just…come back to Madrid.”

“What?!” Everything I was feeling just changed to confusion. “Why go back to the place we were chased out of? That’s bollocks and you know it.”

“Because I am there.” What?!

“Why are you there? You should be…” He should’ve been in Paris.

He sighed. “I thought it best to be here when they located the Seer. There was no way to contact you during that time due to being surrounded by…”

It then clicked in me. “You son of a bitch!”

“Sweetheart, please understand that because they went by a moniker, I had no idea it was the same person.”

“You bastard, do you have any idea what you have just done? If you had just asked me you wouldn’t have made this huge of a mistake!” I don’t think I have ever been this angry before.

“There is no reason to use such language. I can assure you that they will be…”

“I’m sorry, but I have every right to be this upset.” Phillip found me, has one of my best friends and only Merlin knows what else. “I won’t stop until I have Lucio back and end that bastard who took him!”

“Are you referring to me?” His little jest wasn’t enough to stop my tirade.

“No.”

“Then who? Perhaps I can…”

“I don’t want your help. You’ve done enough.” I keep forgetting that he has his own goals and would do anything to achieve them. “I don’t even know if I want to see you at all after what you’ve done.” Phillip could be torturing Lucio right now all because Maxim sent him.

“At least tell me where you are going.” There was that frantic voice again.

“Not a chance in hell.” I hung up on him and dialled another number. After the second ring, they answered. “Drew, it’s me.”

“I had a feeling you would call.” Their French accent calmed my nerves a little. “When should I expect you?”

Chapter Text

I have had her angry at me before, but never like this. I do not know if I will be able to make her see that this was all a miscommunication on both our parts. 

There was a knock at my temporary office in Madrid. “Enter.”

“Sir.” One of the more younger sorcerers here came in. The boy couldn’t be older than seventeen. “Phillip Marwood wishes to speak with you.”

Wonderful. Just who I wanted to see. That foolish curr was grating on my nerves. I could tell that he wanted something, which I haven’t figured out yet. With how Eowyn was going on about what happened made me think that it had something to do with her. “Show him in.”

Not even a second after I said that, Phillip entered with a smile on his face that would suggest he was a cat that ate the canary. He waved off the boy with a dismissive hand. “You may go now.” The door closed silently. “Horvath, I am pleased to tell you I have captured the Seer.”

“Did you now? And what of the other?” I crossed my arms, looming over him with me taller than him. 

“The Collector escaped unfortunately which could pose a problem.” He explained. “Knowing her, she’ll attempt something.”

“Will she? What makes you say this?” How much does he know about her?

“Given how they interacted, the Seer and her. The Collector is more known in our circles as the type to get what she wants by any means necessary. And if we have her friend, she’ll do anything to get them back.”

“Seems like a problem but a miniscule one. Tell me where the Seer is and I’ll go question him.” I held the gem on my cane tight, waiting for his response.

“Are you sure? It seems beneath you to speak to…” 

“Are you questioning my authority?” I glared daggers and to his credit he didn’t cower.

He bowed slightly. “Of course not. He is in the basement.” 

Trying to flatter his way into my good graces, which will never happen. “Good, now go and await orders.” I used my cane to gesture to the door.”

“Of course.” And he was gone. He knew something about Eowyn. More than he let on. I shall hope that my questions will be answered by my guest in the basement.

After some time, I made my way down to see our ‘guest’ who I now know is Lucio Alejo, the Seer. What I didn’t expect as I entered the room they were being held in to see them lounging tied up in a chair as if this was relaxing. I dismissed the guards and when they were gone, locked myself in the room with them. A quick noise suppression spell around the room and the two of us could speak freely.

“Ah, finally. Señor, could you reach in my pocket and grab a smoke for me? I’ve been craving one since I got here.” Not at all what I was expecting. From my reports, the Seer was more reserved and collected. 

“You’re a hard person to track down.” I responded as I pulled out the pack from the coat pocket. “My minions tell me there was another with you. Who was she?”

“Oh, the Collector? Yeah, you’re never going to catch her. Even with me here, she’s probably on her way to see our friend the Seer.” Wait… 

“Are you not the Seer that makes up the triad?” I pulled out one of the cigarettes and held it between my fingers. I prefer cigars over these things, but to each their own.

“Estimado señor, you seem to be mistaken. I am not the Seer.” He leaned back a little. “Now about that smoke?”

I sighed at that. “Then you must be the Alchemist. This just proves to me not to trust anyone else to find intel on others, I should just do it myself.” 

“Sí, Lucio Alejo and for the record because of this mishap, I go by he/him. Drew is they/them.” He crossed his leg waiting for me to respond. 

“Duly noted.” I placed the cigarette in his mouth and lit it with a snap of my fingers. “You do realise though that your future is in my hands right? I would think that you would be a bit more cautious in your situation, especially giving out the name of the actual Seer.”

He took a drag but was unable to pull it away due to being tied up still. “Eh, you won’t kill me. She wouldn’t like that?”

“Who? The Collector.” Threats won’t work on him, a different tactic would be useful.

“Yes, though you know her as Eowyn.” I stood there not moving. “Oh please, so you think I’m estúpido? The fact that she never mentioned who she was with and then not even a day later I get captured by your minions. That, and the first thing you asked was about her. Kind of made my own conclusion that the two of you know each other.”

“Impressive.” I snapped my fingers and released him from his bindings. “I was not expecting her to be with you.”

“Thanks amigo.” He grabbed the cigarette out of his mouth as I leaned against the wall. “I know about noise suppression, so ask anything you want.”

“I will admit, you’re much different from what I was expecting.”

“I get that a lot.” He took another drag. “So about your questions?”

“Given that Eowyn already asked the same questions as I have, I am more interested in how you know her. All she gave me was that you’re friends.

“Ah, she’s like a sister to me. Known her since we were six. My question to you is what is she to you?”

An interesting question, what was she to me? The logical part of me tells me she is a pawn in my game, someone who is useful and should be kept close. Yet there was a deeper part of me that did care for her. It was to the point that I would kill anyone that harmed her. Which was a foreign feeling to have. 

She was the one of the few that didn’t shrink away out of fear. It was more an act of survival the first few times we interacted. She also belonged to the smaller group that fights me and lives. She’s a stubborn pain in arse and yet I wouldn’t have it any other way.

“She’s mine.” I growled without realising.

“I see. Well, I’ll be happy to tell you she’s in New Orleans by now. Find our third, the actual Seer and they’ll help you.” He finished his cigarette and tossed the butt under his boot to extinguish it. “I guess this means I’m to be tied up again?”

“Yes.” With a swift wave of my cane, the ropes were around him again though not as tight as they were before. 

“I bet she’s angry at you after this stunt, huh?” He smiled knowing the situation at hand.

“Extremely.” There was no use in lying about that.

“Then I wish you all the luck.” I don’t know if luck will help in my current situation.

After leaving Lucio bound and giving orders for the others not to touch him, I made my way back to my makeshift office. I have an interesting spell that I recently found that would be perfect to test out at this moment.

Chapter Text

After a long flight across the pond, I found myself sitting from Drew Dubois in one of the local restaurants  they frequented. It was near the apartment that they rent out to people in New Orleans and was near the red light district. When I showed up on their doorstep today, I didn’t have to tell them anything. They always know when something bad has happened. Just as Lucio is very skilled at alchemy, Drew has the innate ability to channel the past, present and future. A little too well in my opinion.

“You seem very stressed, mon cher. Do you want to talk about it?” they asked, breaking the silence we have been sitting in for the last ten minutes. 

“You already know what’s going on. You don’t need me to tell you any of the details.” I countered as I picked at my food.

“True, but I'd rather hear it from you.” Their French accent seemed to calm me which I knew was one of their tricks. "It would make you feel better to get it off your chest and in the open.”

I threw up a mental shield spell to stop them from using theirs. “Don’t you dare use that soothing spell on me Drew. I want to stay angry.”

They ran a hand through their silver hair in a bit of frustration but it quickly dissipated as they placed their hand under their chin to lean on it. “You have barely eaten your food and I know it is your favourite. You get it every time you visit.” They got no response from me which earned me a sigh. “I might be able to see the future but not what people think. Why must you stay angry?”

“If I don’t, then reality will come crashing in.” Knowing that I’m bad luck and caused Lucio to be taken in the first place which already hurt. Maxim being a factor at all made it ten times worse because I brought him in on this little quest of mine and look where it got me. Betrayal.

“It’s about him then? The man you have been seeing? Or the fact that you believe that you cause terrible things with whoever you get close to?” They held my hand with their free one. “Which is not true by the way.”

“If you say so.” I took my hand back and placed it in my lap in defeat.

“Listen mon cher. There was no way of stopping it. Though there is always changing your choices you make in the moment to change your future, there are some things that can’t be changed.” They smiled at me with a glint in their eye that told me that they were currently looking into the future. “And from what I see, yours is always changing yet there is one constant. Your future will be filled with both love and strife. Tell me, this man you have been with, has he been good to you?”

“Define good? I mean, he can be a bell end from time to time, but nothing too bad. Until recently.” I shook my head in frustration. “Why am I telling you this, you can see it if you want.”

“I can but I would rather hear it from the source than being a spectator. Besides this one thing, it sounds like there is a foundation for a meaningful relationship.”

“It would be if only one, the both of us didn’t have secrets and two, I’m a Merlinean and he’s…”

“A Morganian.” They finished for me. “Ah, mon cher. Two star crossed lovers destined to fight each other.” They emphasised that point with a gasp. Always a romantic.

“And now he is the reason that Lucio was taken and I have no idea what he is going to do.”

“Would you like me to see?” They offered.

“No, just…I want to know if he’s alive.” Drew had that shimmer in their eyes again, looking into the future.

“He is safe and unharmed.” They continued to look forward, gaze unmoving. “Hmmm?” What else did they see? Before I could even ask, they snapped back to the present. “You should be able to rest well tonight. And by the look of it, you need it. You haven’t been sleeping well have you?”

“No, I haven’t.”

“Then come on. I’ll escort you back to the apartment.” They paid the cheque and we took off towards where I would be staying. 

Being in the humid air of New Orleans was different from the cold wet temperatures back home in England. There was little to no fog too. What a drastic difference it really is. The two of us walked and talked about little things before we made it to the front door of one of the many apartments that Drew owned. They really did like historical buildings.

“Alright, here we are.” They handed me the keys. “Your things are already up there.”

“Thanks Drew.” I hugged them tightly which gave them the opportunity to whisper in my ear.

“Follow what your heart wants when it comes to him, not your head. Your brain tends to get in the way.” There was no use in asking for clarification as they were gone in the next moment walking down the street.

I just shrugged it off and turned to face the building that I was staying in. The building was quiet since no one else was renting it out at the moment. The apartment that I was staying in was on the second floor and when I entered it, it kind of reminded me of my own home except it was bigger in the living area. The apartment was dark, the only light was from the moon shining through the balcony windows. If there had been more light, I might have been able to see the rest of the place.

There was a shiver down my spine which let me know that I wasn’t alone.

As I made my way into the kitchen area I grabbed a knife from the block slowly. Gathering my senses, I threw it fast as I turned. I wasn’t surprised that it stopped mid air.

“Is that any way to greet someone?” Even when I am angry at him, his voice does something to me.

“It is when that said someone is not welcome and decides to break in here.” I huffed. “What are you doing here Maxim?”

“I’m here to talk to you.” The knife flew past my head and embedded into the wall behind me.

“You’re going to have to pay for that damage to Drew because I’m not.” My arms crossed waiting for him to make the next move.

“Tell me, why do you make things difficult?”

“What?! I make things difficult?! You are the very definition of the word!” The nerve of saying that. He has to know that all he’s doing is pushing my buttons.

“Yet I do not run from my problems.” He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. “You wouldn’t let me explain…”

“Explain what? That you sent your people after me and my friend?”

“Only your friend.”

“How does that change anything, you still did it.”

“I was only after the Seer and for it to turn out it was the Alchemist and also your friend was a complete shock to me. And now I learn that the Seer is here and is also someone you are close to. What other things have you been hiding from me?” His voice had a hint of jealousy in it but also…hurt? What does he have to hurt by?

“I don’t have to explain anything to you. My past is my own just like yours is and I’ll share it whenever I damn please.” I pulled the knife out of the wall, holding the handle tight. “I think it’s best if you leave.”

I didn’t know that he came up behind me. I was not expecting it when his hand came over mine before I could turn around. He pulled the knife from my hands deftly and threw it to the side, the sound of it clattering on the floorboards echoed slightly. “I’m not going anywhere sweetheart. Not until we discuss everything.” That ‘everything’ was charged. With what I couldn’t place at the moment.

“I don’t think so. I’m done being an open book for you to just look through whenever you damn well please. You want something from me, you better beg for it.”

“I won’t have to do such a thing.” He backed me up against the wall that now had the knife mark embedded into it.

I can’t let him corner me or I am going to fold, I just know it. If he succeeds at seducing me, then he would win. And I can’t have that. Especially after what he has done.

I blinked very quickly, only to open my eyes to find myself falling forward on the balcony outside. My balance was so off that I almost fell towards the ground below if it weren’t for a pair of large hands around my waist and pulled me close to his body. “You’re not falling on my watch.”

My body was shaking, my fingers clinging to the fabric of his shirt. This was the first time that I noticed how dressed down he was compared to what he normally has on. And dammit it looks good on him. “I…I don’t…” He lifted me into his arms after I tried to step away and fumbled due to lightheadedness. I had to close my eyes to stop me from getting sick.

Maxim placed me in the chair that he previously occupied when I first entered the apartment, my eyes still close. This was definitely not the best position for me to be in if he is still planning on trying to make me talk but as of right now, I don’t want to get up in fear of being sick.

“You just teleported and made it all the way across the room and through a locked door. I’ve only ever known two other people to do such a feat.” A glass of water made it into my hands either by magic or he did himself. 

Everything was spinning when I opened my eyes to take a sip. “Who?”

“Both Merlin and Morgana.” I choked on that, water being coughed up in a spurt. “Easy there.”

“Are you saying that I did a spell they have done?! And I didn’t even know it?!” Due to my own outburst and shock, a force of magic pushed Maxim into the wall. “Shit!”

“Eowyn, you need to calm down before you do something worse.” It was surprising how calm his voice was given the situation.

“I’m trying but I…” I just want out of here.

Before she finished her sentence, Eowyn disappeared in the blink of an eye. The spell that was holding me against the wall dissipated as a thud on the roof happened. She must have teleported up there.

There was a set of stairs that led up to the roof right outside the front door to this apartment, which I took with haste. The hatch to it was unlocked with a bit of my own magic and upon investigating, it was a good thing this was somewhat a flat roof. Eowyn, who possibly fainted due to the powerful spell she kept using, was laying in a heap close to the edge. It would be best to get her back inside and to bed to sleep it off. 

With her body in my arms again, I could feel the magic radiate from her. The silver and red tendrils wrapped around us, but mostly around that gem around her neck. As soon as I made it back into her borrowed apartment, the tendrils disappeared.

This had to be the third time now that I saw her magic manifest. Which hers was the only one I have ever seen. Observing some of the other Morganians use their magic and never once did I see it. Even when I was apprenticing under Merlin it never happened. What’s even worse is that there is a hairline fracture on the gem. The red colour slowly becoming more and more silver. The theory that I have had for quite some time now is standing true. The second that it becomes full silver and now possibly breaks, Eowyn’s magic will fully be merged with Morgana’s.