Insignitis destiny, p.12
Insignitis: Destiny, page 12
“She needs a friend who isn’t hell-bent on keeping things from her, and both of you are.”
“Taeral, I doubt his parents will agree with this. We’re not exactly the same status as them. There are rules.”
“They don’t need to know.”
“Yes, they do. You know the rules involving your family. I’m surprised they haven’t found out about your excursions into the Human world by now.”
“I may be of a higher status than you both, but regardless, Saphira should be here!”
“Why are you so angry? What in Goddess Solas and Mactire’s name have you witnessed?”
“I have lost count of the amount of bruises those boys caused. I don’t care if they healed swiftly, that girl should have never been touched like that. It’s beyond the meaning of suffering. Now, I have had enough. I want to meet her, and treat her the way she should have been.”
“Mirrin, forgive me, but I think I should take him to meet her. We can deal with any backlash that may occur. He’s right, Saphira needs a friend and we cannot fill that position due to the things we need to deal with.”
“Fine, but I am still going to keep an eye on her. I’ve only enchanted her room.”
“You’ve put a pentacle under her bed, haven’t you?” Reilly said.
“How did you know that?”
“It is old magic and considering what I saw Petra perform earlier, old magic is probably the only thing that will keep her out of that room.”
“My mother has let you read her books, hasn’t she?”
“A few. Now, when can I meet her?”
“Give it a day. I’ll need to figure out a way to ensure no other humans see us.”
“Fine. I better go before my parents begin to wonder where I’ve gone. I haven’t been home all day.”
“I’ll come and get you once I have formulated a plan.”
“Be quick.”
They watched him leave - his walk was determined, confident and even a little defiant. Taeral frowned when the door closed but Mirrin didn’t know how to react. Everything had progressed far too quickly, but if Petra was willing to show herself, something had to be done.
Her brow crinkled - her failure to protect Saphira had been witnessed. How far did her failure go? Mirrin didn’t want to know the answer for, if she did, she knew she would end up hating herself much more than she already did.
“Mirrin?”
“He bore witness to my failure, Taeral.”
“Don’t blame yourself for something that was not your fault. Those boys are to blame. Come, let me hold you until you need to return to Saphira.”
“Okay, but when I do, shall I tell her about the meeting?”
“No, I think we should let things proceed however they may.”
After a week of hot, humid weather, a downpour of heavy rain fell on Killarney - the windows, plant life and walkways were sodden within moments, but Saphira liked listening to rainfall, there was something magical about how it gave life to everything around them.
Alice watched Saphira staring out the window toward the back garden - a small smile was on Saphira’s face. It was a welcome change from witnessing Saphira’s sudden outburst of anger, which she still couldn’t explain.
They would never forget the scream that came from Saphira, and apparently, she didn’t lock the door, yet William had to break it open.
Alice was brought out of her thoughts when thunder and lightning struck - it was now a storm. The lightning made Saphira’s pendant shine - Alice’s brow crinkled for she could swear she saw it glow like the mark did. Was the pendant magical or was her eyes seeing things that weren’t there? Thunder and lightning struck again, and the pendant glowed like embers - she wasn’t seeing things.
“Saphira, may I ask something?”
“What is it?”
“Where did you get your pendant, was it a gift?”
“Isabella gave it to me when I was five, why?”
“Did she say where she bought it?”
“She only told me it was given to her by a friend.”
“I’ve noticed you never seem to take it off.”
“It comforts me.”
“Okay. Well, we aren’t going to do any gardening today, so it seems.”
“I feel like drawing. Weather like this always inspires me.”
“It inspires William, too.”
“Can I use the paints? I’ve rarely used paint, I usually use charcoal.”
“Sure. You’ll find everything you’ll need in the room.”
“Thank you. After the last few days, drawing will help clear my head.”
“Now, you do sound like William. I’ll shout when lunch is ready.”
Saphira smiled before she walked toward the stairs - Alice watched the light catch the pendant and it was still aglow. Didn’t Saphira notice or feel anything when it glowed? She suffered pain when such a thing happened to her hand. Alice didn’t know what to think, still, it did not affect her decision to adopt her. But it was just so strange.
William came downstairs still wearing his gloves and apron - both covered in sawdust from sanding wood. The smell of it was earthy and reminded her of the smell of oak trees in autumn. With the sound of the storm she could imagine being in the forest listening to the rain drip onto trees and falling down leaves onto the ground like Mother Nature’s tears.
William noticed Alice’s vacant expression as she peered in his direction. Alice wasn’t one to daydream. William approached and as his footsteps created sounds on the laminated flooring, she seemed to become aware where she was.
“Alice?”
“Sorry, I was just thinking.”
“You did more than thinking, you were gone.”
“Saphira’s pendant glows, just like her hand.”
“I’ve never seen it glow.”
“Neither did I until now. When the thunder and lightning struck, it glowed, and apparently, Isabella gave it to her.”
“Are you saying Isabella knew the pendant was some sort of talisman?”
“I have no idea, but something more is going on and I doubt even Saphira knows what it is.”
“We took her in knowing about her gift, Alice, and we both don’t care, but Saphira was stuck in that place. She didn’t have anyone to talk to let alone anyone like her. If her pendant is magical, maybe it’s being activated by something.”
“That is what worries me. If people like Saphira exist, maybe all the myth and legends aren’t entirely false.”
“I understand your worry, but Saphira has been here for a few days, and nothing has revealed themselves. Come on, let me run you a bubble bath because you clearly need to relax.”
“A bubble bath sounds nice.”
“I may join you.” He winked as he turned knowing Alice would be blushing but smiling.
Saphira sat at the easel painting the area where she shared a picnic with Alice and William, paying close attention to the lough and oak trees. If anyone was present, they would see how alive it looked with the sparkling water, vibrant plant life, and pebble and sandy beach. But hardly anyone wanted to see any of her work - they usually ripped it up, dumped it into a bin or the nearest source of water.
The storm was beginning to dissipate but the rainfall remained heavy. Saphira looked out the window - she dropped her paintbrush soon after. In the back garden there was an area where the rain seemed to change direction as though it was hitting something that wasn’t there.
Saphira absentmindedly held the pentacle of her pendant as confusion took hold. She stood and approached the window - the area the rain wasn’t touching resembled a body. It was slightly taller than her judging by the height of the rose bush behind. She tried to focus and slowly noticed the area where a head would be was slightly misshapen, especially where ears would be. The shape was curved but ended in a point.
Saphira swiftly stepped back, almost knocking over the stool where she once sat - was she seeing an elf in the back garden? Her mind began to swiftly flood with memories - someone had touched her cheek and stopped Owen, and she knew she felt something whilst in the forest at Lough Leane. Whoever it was, they were clearly standing in the back garden.
Saphira blinked as she shook her head in an attempt at stopping the confusion and disbelief. To no surprise, it failed for when she opened her eyes, they were still there even if they couldn’t be seen.
Who are you?
***
It was refreshing just to stand in the rain after suffering hours of scorching heat back home. The sound of thunder and the brightness of lightning was liberating after the silence of being stuck at home. But against Taeral’s advice, he entered the Human world and was standing in the back garden of the house Saphira resided.
After discovering what Petra was after Saphira and witnessing her gift, he had to check on Saphira, even if it were for mere moments. She was sitting at an easel painting where she was at Lough Leane - even from where he stood, he could see she was talented. He smiled for that was something he shared - the love of drawing and painting.
He saw her peer out the window and drop her paintbrush with a look of surprise on her face. He watched her approach the window and peer toward where he stood - it didn’t take long to realise she knew he was there. He soon realised how - the rain must be revealing his shape. He knew he ought to leave, but the look of confusion on her face kept him there.
She was holding her pendant like she always did when she needed some form of comfort. He frowned - was his presence beginning to worry her? If it were, he understood why, but it didn’t stop the image of her becoming irate by discovering his intrusion, even if he couldn’t be seen, entering his thoughts.
He knew Taeral had a plan to enable him to finally meet Saphira. It had been a day already, but thanks to the weather in the Human world, the plan had to be postponed. He knew Taeral would assume he was in the Human world once his absence was discovered.
He couldn’t understand why he felt such a need to be close to her, and he doubted anyone would or could explain why. The fact Saphira could see him even when he was invisible had to be part of the reason, regardless of how small.
He watched her leave the room, only to see her descend the stairs and enter a room with machines (he assumed they were used for washing). She entered the kitchen only to open the door leading into the garden. She donned a black coat covered in white skulls and red roses - it was far different from what his kind wore.
The door opened as she pulled up a hood but her plait protruded from the side of her head. She took a swift look back to check no-one was coming before walking into the heavy rain. He was frozen as she walked along the gravel pathway headed toward the shed where he stood. Her pace slightly sped up as she blinked a few times to clear her eyes of raindrops.
She stopped a foot away like before but she did not outstretch her hand. Her expression was confused and questioning - should he speak or remain silent? He was in two minds.
“Who are you?”
Her voice was angelic and like music to his ears, for not many heard it in such a calm and natural tone.
He didn’t answer but he found the courage to touch her cheek, only this time she did not jump. Her skin was slightly sodden from the rain but still warm. He moved his thumb, stroking her cheek affectionately, but still silent.
“Who are you? Please, I know you aren’t a figment of my imagination. I’ve sensed you five times now.”
Saphira felt her hand being embraced but the touch was minimal as though they were only using their fingertips. She felt them beginning to move so she followed only to watch the shed door open on its own accord. She entered and watched the door close gently. She heard breathing - it sounded nervous.
He watched her lower her hood - her plait was slightly wet near the tip, and the silver clasp holding it in place was in the shape of a dragon with its wings folded at its side. Her eyes were like emeralds made clearer by the makeup she donned. Her lips were the colour of dark purple - it must be lipstick he knew humans used. She was more beautiful up close.
Saphira listened to the breathing, it was still nervous as though they were debating whether to reveal themselves or not. She found it strange considering this wasn’t the first time she had (technically) been in his presence.
“Let me see you.”
Saphira heard them take a deep breath before a sphere of light appeared almost blinding her. Slowly, she watched their shape fill with colour and features form. It was moments before she saw an elf appear. It was male with long jet-black hair (sodden from the rain), held back with two small plaits at the side, exposing his Elven ears. His eyes were like sapphires and cheeks were curved and slightly tanned. He was a foot taller than her and slightly muscular, but not like the body builders she heard of. His clothing was similar to Taeral’s but forest green with a brown belt and chocolate-brown boots.
“What’s your name?”
“Reilly.”
His voice wasn’t as deep as Taeral’s but still manly and rather sultry - she almost blushed at that thought. She watched a smirk appearing on his face, it was knowing and cheeky - she had blushed.
“What are you smirking at?”
“Your cheeks are pink.”
“Well, I haven’t exactly met a lot of elves before.”
“I suppose not.”
“Why have you been watching me?”
“That I can’t explain. I just have.”
“Well, forgive me, but it’s weird. You don’t even know me.”
“Maybe not, but I want to.”
“Why?”
“I know you’re gifted and you have been stuck here when you shouldn’t have been. You don’t belong here…Saphira.”
“How do you know my name?”
“I heard it whilst you were in that human orphanage.”
“Human orphanage? You say that as though I’m not human.”
“Saphira, humans aren’t gifted, yet you are.”
Saphira stepped back as she frowned - Reilly inwardly recoiled. He had clearly insulted her - his nerves were now prickling with worry.
“I’m sorry if I’ve upset you.”
“I think you should go.”
“Saphira, I’m sorry.”
Saphira pulled up her hood and left - she almost ran into the rain. Reilly covered his mouth with his hand as he let out a worried breath. He had done exactly what he hoped he wouldn’t. Why did he have to say such a thing? Saphira was already struggling with being what she was, he just added to the already large mountain of confusion. Reilly quietly cursed in his native tongue - Taeral was going to scold him.
I am such an idiot!
***
Saphira entered her room breathing deeply as she fought against her desire to cry. Apparently, she wasn’t human but she looked human, so what in Goddess Solas’ name was she? No-one was explaining anything and her mind was so full of confusion.
Saphira took off her coat letting it fall where it may and slid down the door. Her chest now hurt due to breathing heavily. The fact was, she had finally discovered who had been watching her - she was relieved yet upset with how he spoke to her. He was polite but his words were hurtful, even if it was unintentional. He did apologise and it sounded sincere but still, it hurt.
What on earth am I going to tell Mirrin? She knows I’m a bad liar.
Saphira may not be crying but her hands were trembling and felt slightly cold. But her mind decided to remember how he had smirked. It made her blush - she frowned at her moment of weakness. Saphira instinctively knew he would return even if he hid. Part of her wanted him to, but another didn’t for what if he said another thing that hurt her? Could she ignore it like she did at the orphanage? But did she truly ignore it considering how it affected her? Somehow it felt different for he was clearly not like the bullies she encountered growing up.
Great, now I am confusing myself.
The sound of the rain was beginning to slow unlike her mind. She sighed in annoyance but not because of Reilly, but because of her lack of experience being around people. Maybe she overreacted to his statement - she had no idea of how the Elven spoke, so maybe being blunt was natural. Saphira hid her face in her arms, groaning in embarrassment. Now she felt like an idiot.
***
Reilly sat on the log near his home trying to stop cursing himself for messing up his first meeting with Saphira. The scorching heat didn’t help, it only made his oncoming headache arrive faster. He hid his face in his hands and groaned. The only words going through his head were “idiot”, “fool”, and one of Mirrin’s favourites, “bonehead”.
“What have you done now?”
“Mirrin?”
“You look very embarrassed and guilty and why is your hair wet? Oh, you didn’t!”
“What?”
“You went and watched Saphira when you were told to wait. What happened?”
“I let her see me.”
“So? Why would that embarrass you?”
“It didn’t, it is what I said that has made me feel like this. Me and my mouth.”
“Reilly, what in Goddess Solas’ name did you say to her?”
“I said I heard her name in that human orphanage. So basically, I told her she wasn’t human. She’s already struggling with being gifted, and I just go and tell her she’s some sort of…freak, I think is what humans say.”
“Yep, you are an idiot.”
“Thanks, that’s really cheered me up.”
“She’ll be fine, Reilly, just give her time.”
“How will she be fine? She told me that I should go after what I said. She probably never wants to see me again.” Mirrin laughed and it made him frown in annoyance. “What’s funny?”
“Reilly, you worry too much. She’ll be fine and she will want to see you again, trust me.”
“Your eyes are glittering and they only do that when you know something. What do you know?”
“You’ll find out soon enough.”
“Not you, too. Taeral said that yesterday.”
“Reilly, I know Saphira, and she’ll see you again. She’s just been socially isolated for a long time, so she’s bound to overreact to certain things.”
“One being gifted. Mirrin, why did her mother leave her there? Surely being around other gifted people would have protected her.”
