Vampires can live forever if they play their cards right and because of that, the past can feel like a dream. When I was just a little girl, I was given a gift or rather, chosen to be the next person to see the future. These visions would come to me at random points in time, but like any hardships or test... I was able to overcome it and bend it towards my will. I wasn't alone though... I had help, a teacher who would sneak into my dreams from time to time. I wonder if this is how Jorge felt. Even now, when I help push the future towards a different path rather than paving it myself, I always wondered if I was just dancing in the palm of her hands. I may have been seen as some kind of genius, like I knew what I was doing but it's harder than you think...

  

  At the center of a town, a girl was being shielded by her friend who also held a much younger Gabriel in his arms. The surrounding area was being engulfed in flames. They burned in many different colors and right before passing out she saw where the source of this power was coming from... a figure that resembled a young girl was engraved into her eyes. She thought she had woken up back home, but instead, she found herself in the middle of a forest.

  "I was wondering when we would meet. Elizabeth. Although I'm surprised that I actually got this far." (?)

  She didn't know who this woman was and yet she looked familiar. Her red hair and the colorful eyes were the most beautiful things she had ever seen even though the girl didn't know her own eyes were practically the same.

  "Where am I?" (Liz)

  "We are in your mind." (?)

  "I see..." (Liz)

  "You don't look surprised... I guess nothing can really shock a vampire." (?)

  "And you are?" (Liz)

  "I'm sort of like a time traveler. My name is Lilith Vasquez." (Lilith)

  Liz woke up, realizing that she had been asleep. She turned to the side; she looked out the window and remembered where she was.

  I was dreaming about my grandmother again... Ha, It's been a while since I saw her face, I thought I forgot it. (Liz)

  After the battle that took place in the Last Frontier, Elizabeth spent her time in the Magic Kingdom helping Sophia. A majority of her time was Liz being under house arrest since it was very abnormal for a vampire to be at the Magic Kingdom. Although the Last frontier sent a peace envoy, Liz was a whole different story. She was a noble, a Vazques, and the holder of very special eyes but in the end, Sophia was able to get her to stay. The first thing Liz did with her freedom was shatter the magical ball that was in Sophia's room.

  "What was that for?" (Sophia)

  "No more spying on Allister." (Liz)

  If anyone were to have seen what was happening before them, they wouldn't believe that Sophia could be the Magic queen. She knelt down on all fours as she tried to put back the pieces, but it was too late.

  "Cousin... Don't you think that was a little harsh?" (Milly)

  "No. Your elders have been having you use this tool to spy on us, right? I assume by now they're aware of problems going on in the Lost city?" (Liz)

  "Allister gave me that as a gift..." (Sophia)

  Sophia's hair turned grey which signified she was sad. Milly and Liz looked at her for a moment but continued on with their conversation.

  "They do know. Sophia keeps records of everything but most importantly, where the rest of her powers are. They look down on here for not keeping the rest of the guardians in check." (Milly)

  "We need to shift our focus towards here, not there. I'll take the blame for breaking my uncle's toy but I'm also here in order to assure them that everything will be fine." (Liz)

  "My dad made that orb with the intent of helping her highness with finding the other guardians... It was just one of the few things he did out of boredom. When he's in his lab, he tends to go off the rails and create random things like that, but I wonder if that's the only reason why you're here..." (Milly)

  "On that topic, where is my uncle's lab? I'll be in charge of his stuff too. His barrier magic should be weakening right now so I'll use my own power to restrict it." (Liz)

  "It's in the Academy's library. He's the librarian and uses it to teach his students there as well. I can show you the way." (Milly)

  "Oh yes. I almost forgot!" (Sophia)

  Sophia stood back up as she looked at Liz with an evil smile.

  "If you could teach those kids for me as well, that'll be much appreciated." (Sophia)

  Liz stopped, just as she was about to walk out the room.

  "I can't use magic though. I'm a vampire." (Liz)

  "That's fine, teach them combat. I’m sure you've already seen yourself doing it. Right?” (Sophia)

  "Hold on a second! I'm not a teacher! If my uncle..." (Liz)

  "My dad has been gone for a while. Sometimes he'll send a note through someone else magic, giving them task but all that stopped after he met Kat." (Milly)

  "Yes, and as a fellow Vasquez. It's up to you to finish what he started." (Sophia)

  "Fine." (Liz)

  As they got to the campus, they were silent. Milly heard stories about her cousin, but she never actually met her.

  "I've heard about you from Allister, but I never expected you to be the wielder of two colors. It's amazing. You've already surpassed Denise" (Liz)

  "I... I only ever heard stories about her from Sophia and other mages. I have this big family, and I don't even know any of them" (Milly)

  "Give it some time, you'll meet everybody. Even Jorge, if that's who's on your mind." (Liz)

  "Ok... How is he?" (Milly)

  "He's doing fine. Depending on what path he takes... He could either be free his friends or... helping to protect the city with our cousin. Who's to say?" (Liz)

  "You can see the present as well?" (Milly)

  "No but I know the future quite well and based of today's date... that future should be happening very soon." (Liz)

  "The elders are very afraid of you. Since the birth of magic, it's said that the wielder of the eyes was meant to serve this kingdom. You're a vampire and a Vasquez, which complicates things for them." (Milly)

  "Yes. Their beliefs and way of living is changing so I don't blame them, but the world isn't what it used to be anymore. Oh right... Where is Kat? I haven't seen her since we visited her hospital bed" (Lis)

  "After she recovered, she left to deal with her tribe. Something about a potential feud between the two? I offered my assistance, but she said it's a wolfs problem." (Milly)

  "Sounds like fun. Let's go watch." (Liz)

  "What about the library?" (Milly)

  "Those kids can wait a bit longer." (Liz)

  -------------------------------------

  On the outskirts of the kingdom, Kat entered into the forest in hopes of getting permission to allow her tribe to live among the other wolves knowing. Once inside, the sudden change in weather made her shiver.

  Why did it just get cold? Wasn't it hot just a few seconds ago? magic?

  After a few days of hunting and gathering food, she couldn't help but wonder why no wolves were around. Just her smell should have been enough to warn them. She had some many questions popping into her head. Why can't she detect them? Why would another tribe live this far down south, and to make these even more confusing, why was the environment different from the Magic Kingdom. Since she arrived at the southern part of the continent, it was obvious how hot it was compared to the Lost City. When she went looking for the other tribe, she wondered why they lived in a jungle. It wasn't until she got deeper into the tropical forest that everything changed.

  "I guess not all tribes are the same. My people would have attacked the moment I entered the forest... Unless they're just feeling me out. Allister never told me about this other tribe... in fact, he never talked about himself, but he was surprised about my way of thinking..." (Kat)

  When she was deep in her thoughts, an unfamiliar scent had caused her hairs to stand.

  "It's about time." (Kat)

  Kat was already surrounded, but she never expected them to resemble her. Seeing them in human forms left her with so many questions. They wore native style of clothes and even though they were fully wolves, they had ears to prove it.

  "Youngling, why are you here?" (?)

  "Clearly she's not an envoy from the group approaching us." (??)

  The one who spoke first was ahead of the pack, signifying that he was clearly the alpha and head of the pack.

  I didn't know there were others who could still turn into humans... (Kat)

  "The group approaching is my tribe. They were forced out of their home because of the dead." (Kat)

  "You speak as if you're their alpha, but you didn't come from their direction." (?)

  "She has the scent of a demon. Lord Allister's?" (??)

  "You guys know Allister? He saved me... well, when my own brethren tried to attack me but... I'm his friend." (Kat)

  "They attacked you and you still wish to protect them." (?)

  "Well... Yea... I don't hate them. Even Allister spared them for me." (Kat)

  "Allister isn't here. Mentioning that you were an acquaintance of his has gotten our attention but the rest from here on out is up to you." (?)

  "Fair enough. Look, my people have avoided contact with the outside world for long to the point that they even abandoned their human forms... I don't know why but I alone was able to reclaim it. They shunned me for it but... they are still good people. (Kat)

  "Such devotion." (??)

  "Wolves regressing back to their beastly ways... No wonder our population is decreasing. To think we would suck as surviving when the world ended, just like humans." (?)

  Kat tried to hide her emotions but even she could tell this tribe was more advanced, and powerful.

  "Still, Allister doesn't just spare anyone on a whim. How about this, defeat our strongest in combat and we'll consider it" (?)

  "Fine than bring it on! You're the alpha right? I can already tell." (Kat)

  "No. I may lead, but we have another who we look upon for guidance." (?)

  "Then where is he?" (Kat)

  "I'm not a guy little one, but you can call me Rosa." (Rosa)

  Behind the very person who was doing all the talking jumped down in order to be face to face; Her outfit was different from the rest, more dignified. It wasn't covered in gold and black. The color made her stand out from the others who only wore brown clothing. It wasn't designed to make her look like a noble or a queen, but one who carried their light and darkness.

  The black clothing reminds of Allister... (Kat)

  "Take me to your arena." (Kat)

  Rosa smiled, looking amused.

  ---------------------------------------------------

  "This is so annoying! I just wanted to check on Allister... I mean my other guardians one more time." (Sophia)

  After Liz destroyed the orb Sophia would use to spy on Allister, she sat by her desk defeated. Her life in the Magic kingdom was boring, at least through her eyes. The Magic Kingdom was located in South America between the old countries of Colombia, Brazil, and Peru. Like the rest of the world, they were also victims when the world ended. Luckily, they stayed safe by hiding themselves with magic long before it ended. Any normal human who would try to enter would fall under their spell which caused them to lose interest in exploring. They took it upon themselves to help humans but once their population increased, they made sure their next plan of action would be to ensure that towns and cities around them would survive in order to stop the fluctuation of people.

  "Sorry to hear that my lady. How did that orb work anyways?" (Margo)

  "He designed it so when I poured my magic, it allowed me to track those with similar powers to my own." (Sophia)

  "Allister, he's the one who brought teleportation to my kingdom. I've heard tales of his exploits... Even though he's helped us, I never could understand how her highness Mabel's inner circle could hold onto such long grudges." (Margo)

  "Yea, when he presented it, the elders wanted him to try and changing its normal functions to spy on people in general, but he said it was impossible... When they learned that, they deemed it useless. Speaking of kingdoms... How are you holding up? I hope you're not being mistreated. I know Mabel sent you in order to support me, but it could be lonely without your husband and daughter." (Sophia)

  "I won't lie, I miss them. My daughter still sends me letters from time to time. I heard she even made some friends. Things got rocky at one point but she's safe now. People here tend to stare but most of them look at me out of curiosity since I'm a vampire. I heard only those with magical abilities were allowed in, but I've seen humans, and even wolves living in the vicinity?" (Margo)

  "This kingdom has always existed but hidden because of magic. After the world went to shit, Allister and I fought everyday with the elders to help expand our kingdom. We saved as much humans as we could and even allowed those who can't use external magic to enter and apply for the academy." (Sophia)

  Even though she was the Magic Queen, a council had to be established in order to help run the kingdom.

  "What about wolves? How did they end up all the way down here? Last I heard, they usually avoid tropical areas." (Margo)

  "That's actually an interesting story. Allister and Denise helped them when they were forced out of their homes. They researched a way for them to survive in the forest by making it habitable for them. You see! Allister really likes studying and inventing things, so he researched the Lost City and how Liz can move through from one forest to another around this continent and..." (Sophia)

  "Your highness! Its Katherine!" (Milly)

  -------------------------------

  Sophia's story was cut short when Milly ran in. Apparently, Liz had a vision midway through their tour of the academy which involved Kat fighting Rosa. She didn't want to look into it further even though she had the ability to and instead decided to go see it for herself. Once Milly passed the message along, they quickly made their way to the forest. Margo finally understood what Sophia meant by making it habitable. It felt like the temperature dropped the moment they entered, even the forest itself looked different compared to the tropical area they were in earlier.

  "How is this possible... What did Allister do?" (Margo)

  "I wish I could tell you. With Allister and Lupe, they can analyze the very structure of magic and life... There's no limit to what they could do. Perhaps that's why they kept him around. The truth is ever since he chose to keep his demon, the previous elders stripped him of all his magic, but I was able to convince the current ones to allow him to use it as long as he's within the academy. Since then, magic itself has changed drastically." (Sophia)

  "Yea, my parents are amazing." (Milly)

  Parents? Who's her mother? Does Mabel know? and who's Lupe? (Margo)

  They Saw Liz's figure from afar and joined her, the sound of wolves howling told them that the duel was about to begin. Kat and Rosa circled each other without taking their eyes off one another. After a few seconds, the two turned into their original forms. Kat was A Dire wolf with brownish fur, but she was still considered small due to her age while Rosa turned into a grey wolf that had a reddish like fur.

  "That girl is actually bigger than the rest of them." (Margo)

  "Now that you mention it, you're right." (Milly)

  "When I first ran into her. I thought she was a grey wolf because of her size but she actually grew... she's a dire wolf. Allister told me before he left that her family most likely ruled over their tribe because of it." (Liz)

  "Is this even a fair fight then?" (Margo)

  "Katherine will lose. She's young and inexperienced." (Sophia)

  Sophia looked at Liz expecting her to explain the rest.

  "Her kind lived a somewhat peaceful life. I doubt they know what they're truly capable of." (Liz)

  After Liz came to the conclusion that this fight wouldn't last long, she began making her way back to the academy.

  "Where are you going?" (Sophia)

  "I already know how it's going to end. The truth is, I only came to meet Rosa and besides... Seems like some students are waiting for me already. There's someone who needs to be put in their place." (Liz)

  Sophia and Milly both looked at each other and instantly knew who she was talking about. Sophia made sure she wasn't alone in case something goes down from interacting with "that" class.

  "Students?" (Margo)

  "A special class that Allister teaches and well... They can be a little rebellious." (Sophia)

  "From what I heard, he never takes on students. Her highness Mabel tried, and he always said no." (Margo)

  "You're correct. It took a lot of work, but he's been given permission to use magic as long as he is on school grounds and teaches the next generation." (Sophia)

  Margo was amazed. Allister introduced a lot to the Last Frontier, and it was clear that giving him his power back with conditions attached would surely bring benefits.

  "Any promising student since he began teaching?" (Margo)

  "Yes. All his students are promising but only few stood out" (Sophia)

  "Are they stronger than even the Inner circle or Nobles in the Lost City?" (Margo)

  "Who's to say..." (Sophia)

  "Who are they? Out of curiosity of course." (Margo)

  "Well, you have Selena Bloodress, Rosa, old man Giovanni, Denise Vazquez and the current strongest at the school, Vanessa Santos." (Sophia)

  "Selena?" (Margo)

  She wanted to keep talking but not when the fight was about to start and yet it hadn't. she couldn't help but wonder why.

  "They're feeling each other out, like everyone else, Rosa wants to know how capable Kat is. To know if she's ready." (Liz)

  "Ready?" (Milly)

  "Dire wolves are the second strongest wolves to have ever existed. They need to know if she has what it takes to lead one day" (Sophia)

  While they talked about Kat's predicament, her fight had begun. She jumped in the hopes of pouncing on Rosa, but her smaller body also meant that Rosa was faster. Once she dodged, Kat turned into a human and used her legs to push off the ground, moving like a torpedo. She transformed back into a wolf just before she tried to attack Rosa for a second time. Kat's strategy was to continuously change from wolf to human in order to help the disadvantage she had from being slower. Rosa wasn't affected by her in the slightest, once Kat figured she was close enough, she changed back into a human but partially changed her hand, so she could land a fatal blow. Unfortunately, Rosa was aware of this and changed back as well in order to stop Kat. Rosa got a hold of her arm with her right hand as she slipped behind Kat, putting her in a choke hold with her other arm.

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  "An interesting strategy. Did you learn those moves while traveling with Allister? At least you don't fight like a total beast...and yet, I expected more from you. You wear his black like clothing but you're no student of his." (Rosa)

  "I'm self-taught." (Kat)

  "Ha, what a shame. Then I guess you guys never established an actual relationship." (Rosa)

  Rosa chucked as she loosened her hold on Kat. Even as Kat coughed, trying to regain her composure, Rosa lifted her by the collar and tossed her away.

  "Time for round 2." (Rosa)

  They both changed back into wolves and stared each other down again. Although they weren't speaking out loud, they were able to communicate telepathically. This was an ability wolves had in common.

  [You really don't have the slightest idea of what you're capable of, do you?] (Rosa)

  [What do you mean?] (Kat)

  [I guess you really are self-taught. Allister may not be one of us be even he knows the truth] (Rosa)

  Kat growled in anger after hearing his name again. She didn't hate him or anything, they never had any trouble, but their adventures together felt brief. One second, they met and the next. They were apart.

  It's not like he talked about himself all that much...We traveled, killed the dead, and traveled some more. Even if I was curious about his background, it's not like I would force him to talk about it... Besides... I was just happy to learn about this world... and before I knew it, I was here, and he was gone. Maybe that's why he didn't bring me along... because I was a liability... or maybe I was to weak... No. That's not important right now! My family, they need a home, and I'll achieve it for them. (Kat)

  [Lost in thought?] (Rosa)

  [You're right. The way I was raised, we were only given the gift to look and speak like humans but... I never asked Allister and maybe that my fault for being an idiot but I'm here now, in front of you. So just teach me... Teach us!] (Kat)

  [Unfortunately, that's not me to decide but I can show you.] (Rosa)

  Rosa's body glowed bright green, when she opened her mouth, a huge ball of wind gathered by her jaw. Once she howled, the wind moved at her command, hurling itself towards Kat before dispersing. All the branches from the nearby trees swayed aggressively, Kat could only try and block her eyes before getting pick up and pushed along with everything in the wind's way. The force itself was enough to turn her back into a human as she bounced on the ground like a ball. Before getting back up, she coughed up blood, clothes ripped nearly exposing her body. She looked around to find Rosa was gone. Kat hadn't even noticed until it was too late, Rosa jumped out from her shadow, pinning Kat's body to ground.

  "You can use Magic?" (Kat)

  [In a sense. We can even use light and darkness to a certain extent. What you saw me do was called shadow walking. I also gathered magic towards my jaw and with howling, created wind.] (Rosa)

  The moment she got off her body, Kat tried to attack but was tripped by Rosa who had whipped her tail towards her feet. Turning back into a human, Rosa grabbed Kat by the collar and lifted her off the ground.

  "You were never going to beat me, but I still had to know how strong you were. Tell your tribe you tried." (Rosa)

  Rosa tossed Kat like a rag doll towards a nearby tree. All the wolves howled when Kat could no longer fight, and Rosa began to walk away.

  "Don't turn your back on me. I won't admit defeat until I'm dead." (Kat)

  "No thanks." (Rosa)

  When Rosa continued walking away, Kat's figure glowed as she yelled at Rosa to stop. Although it wasn’t directed at everyone, the magic released caused them all to stop what they were doing. When Rosa turned around, she found Kat still standing but it was clear to everyone that she was unconscious when she used the last of her energy. Before Kat fell to the ground 2 wolves ran down to catch her body.

  "Rosa..." (??)

  "Bring her with us. Ha, I knew you had potential but that was something else. She's still a kid but I think we all felt that power, right? Leave her tribe to me. I'll bring them here." (Rosa)

  "As you wish." (??)

  "So, she passed?" (Sophia)

  Rosa turned around to find Sophia coming down.

  "For a second, I thought you were going to interfere. I know Allister left her behind because she wasn't ready and hoped we could help but I still had to test her for myself." (Rosa)

  "He went to The Lost City." (Sophia)

  "I know. Lady Elizabeth told me everything just before this fight started. Apparently, there's a werewolf there as well... How troublesome." (Rosa)

  -----------------------------------------------

  The Magic academy. It was a 7-year school ranging from all ages. Of course, they gathered the students together by age, but it wasn't abnormal to have older students since the world cause for many potential candidates to be lost. Since the Magic Kingdom opened up its borders, they had to figure out how they would change their curriculum. Half humans would focus on their specialty while also studying Magic in order to understand how it all works. Mages would be able to apply for practical classes in order to improve their abilities which were split up by Elements. Those elements were fire, water, wind and so on but there were also non elemental classes. All students in general would be able to take combat classes and learn how to build and use magic equipment. My cousin told me that my uncle had his own class which focused on learning and inventing newer spells which he held inside the library.

  "And so, Sophia wants them to learn how to fight someone other than mages? Got it." (Liz)

  "Be careful... They can be a little too much. They love Allister but they'll still want to test you." (Milly)

  As they walked down the halls, something had caught Liz's attention. She had come across pictures and painting of people who had clearly come to the magic academy or held high positions long ago.

  "Some of these pictures are of previous elders as well as queens and guardians." (Milly)

  Arianna Chronicler... (Liz)

  Milly hadn't noticed when Liz was fixated on one picture frame in particular.

  "She was your mother, right? I heard she was the strongest guardian ever. The first and only vampire ever chosen to be one. I wish I knew why. They don't talk about stuff like that in school." (Milly)

  "It's because of her." (Liz)

  Liz pointed at a portrait a few meters away. Milly read the name, and it was labeled "Lilith Vazquez". She had red hair as well, just like Liz's mother.

  "Our grandmother?" (Milly)

  "She was the previous magic eye holder. She taught me everything I know. Their past is hardly mentioned. since it happened many centuries ago." (Liz)

  "She died way before you were even born. So how is that even possible?" (Milly)

  "I wonder..." (Liz)

  "My dad never really talked about her. He said he was too young to remember. She's clearly a guardian too but no exploits of her prowess is ever mentioned, just her power to see the future." (Milly)

  "That's because she never cared about the gift... she was just holding on to it until it could get to the person who she deemed worthy." (Liz)

  When I first met my grandmother, she had only introduced herself and talked about how I was going to be the next wielder. Grandma had confessed to me that she was only trying to act cool when she said, "I was wondering when we'd meet." but in reality, she was jumping through time and couldn't stop. When I first met her, she was only in her late teens. After laster encounters, it would become clear to me that only days had past for me while years would pass for her. It was weird, she would show up at different ages when finding me at different points in time.

  

  "You're back... and you've gotten older." (Liz)

  "Hey that's not cool. I'm only like 23." (Lilith)

  "How are you even here. What kind of power did I just inherit?" (Liz)

  "You have the ability to see the future." (Lilith)

  Liz's eyes opened wide, but she wasn't surprised.

  "You know, for a little girl... you don't get scared easily." (Lilith)

  "I'm a vampire. I'm older than I look. Anyways, how were you able to reach me? Did you look into your own future?" (Liz)

  "No. I'll be dead long before you're born. I looked into another's future, and I couldn't stop until I saw you, then our powers just connected." (Lilith)

  "I don't understand..." (Liz)

  "How should I put it... I guess you can say the future has many possibilities and if I play my cards right, I can find some that are very similar. In this case, you and I are still alive." (Lilith)

  "But you just said..." (Liz)

  Lilith flicked Liz's forehead, telling her that she wasn't done talking.

  "In another future, I'm also dead. Things will still stay the same when it comes to you but other events in your life will change. Don't worry, it won't affect you because you won't even notice the difference." (Lilith)

  "Sounds complicated and dangerous. How are you even allowed to do such things." (Liz)

  "It's very dangerous... and it comes with a risk. The answer on how? Well, I may not look it, but I'm a Guardian. My color is red, and it brings many benefits. Although its only temporary since I'll eventually pass it on to vampire." (Lilith)

  I knew instantly who she was talking about. After all, my mother also had red hair. She really was messing with time... she looked like a normal human to me but the way my grandmother talked made her sound like a god.

  

  "That power lets you live forever as long as you have it right? Why give it up? Why choose to die like a human?" (Liz)

  "That's always been the life for those who were born human." (Lilith)

  "Then... Why give it up?" (Liz)

  She stared at her future granddaughter and smiled.

  "I never cared about such a power. I'm simply holding onto it in order to secure the future I want. That best for the people I care about" (Lilith)

  "What's the toll for changing the future that much?" (Liz)

  "That's a lesson for another time." (Lilith)

  She knew the toll it would have on her... and she didn't care.

  "Cousin, can you hear me?" (Milly)

  After a minute, Milly was able to snap Liz back and told her it was time. Once they arrived in front of the library, Liz was impressed with the magic that flowed from within. The entrance wasn't like any other door, but she knew the changes were inside because it was designed just like the one her family had. Once the doors opened, there were students scattered around the library. Allister's library was about three stories high. Students looked down at Liz and Milly from above while a few were at the center of the room sitting on tables.

  16 students... (Liz)

  "So, you're Allister's niece and a vampire too. I knew I smelled something foul." (?)

  Liz wasn't fazed, in fact, she was amused. The with auburn colored hair spoke first and he continued to speak in everyone's place.

  “I’m sorry, but I think I can speak for everyone here when I say that you aren't one of us and we you'll never be recognized as one, until you've proven how strong you are.” (?)

  Liz spent no time arguing or talking back, she simply took off her coat and passed it to Milly.

  “Alright. Let’s do it” (Liz)

  “Cousin!” (Milly)

  “We got ourselves a fight!” (?)

  Everyone cheered as they stomped their feet in unison.

  “Stand down Ricky. I'll be the one fighting her.” (??)

  Liz turned around to where the voice came from and found a girl with dark brown hair walking into the library. Her bangs just slightly extended to her blackish eyes and down to her elbows. She had with big round glasses and a crow on her shoulder. Liz couldn’t put her finger on it but something ominous leaked out of her. She wore all black which was Allister’s favorite color.

  She reminds me of my uncle. Interesting, I didn’t even see her in my visions. I thought my opponent was going to be the brat with reddish hair… is she an anomaly? (Liz)

  

  "Hey grandma…" (Liz)

  "What’s up?" (Lilith)

  "What's an anomaly exactly. I heard you mention it a few times." (Liz)

  "They’re people whose futures you can’t see. No wait... Hmm, that's a tough question actually... Ok! You can see them in the future if you pay close attention, but you'll never truly know if they'll get involved or not. For example, let's say you have a vision of yourself eating with your dad, and you notice a fella in that back. Now, imagine that vision actually happens but now that fella introduces himself and you three are now all eating together. " (Lilith)

  "Do they know what they're capable of?" (Liz)

  "Of course not, and nor should they. After all, they just have to exist to change things. People's paths are always set in stone unless those like us turn the direction they are moving, but anomalies have no roads. They can move in any direction, change the future without even knowing it. Of course it won't always be a huge change." (Lilith)

  "Vanessa, I saw her first!” (Ricky)

  “You were never going to win. By the way, you already knew she was here” (Vanessa)

  "Look, I really don't care who I fight.” (Liz)

  "V..." (Milly)

  Milly called out to Vanessa and looked at her with an expression saying, "Are you it's a good idea?".

  "Milly, you know that it's tradition so don’t be such a worry wort. Wait, why are you a kid again?” (Vanessa)

  “Well…” (Milly)

  “We can talk about it later. Set up the arena please.” (Vanessa)

  Everyone but Liz and Vanessa ascended to the second floor, they chanted Fight as they swung their fist in the air. After Milly clapped her hands twice, the library started to expand, giving the fighters more room to move. Liz was able to slightly sense it, but an invisible field had surrounded them.

  interesting. (Liz)

  "Alight you two. When you're both ready. you may begin!" (Milly)

  Vanessa pulled out a small key, as she twirled it around her fingers, the key eventually turned into a long metal staff. Without even saying a word, she created two fireballs and fired them at Liz who simply slapped it away with the back of her hands.

  “You mock me. You should know I’m stronger than this.” (Liz)

  "I apologize. My plan was to work myself up in order to see how capable your kind is against magic.” (V)

  The next move V made was summoning multiple fireballs that spun in a circle like a ferries wheel, launching never ending rounds like a gatling gun. The difference was that they didn’t fly straight towards Liz but instead made sharp turns at different points in order to strike from all directions. When the smoke cleared, Liz’s body was shielded by her hardened blood. Everyone stared in awe, talking and trying to figure what it was that protected her.

  "Blood magic. Makes sense knowing who your mother was.” (V)

  But when did she releases that much blood in order to make such a defensive barrier? (V)

  Liz responded to V's thoughts as if she read her mind. Her figure three that glass like blood pointed at the ground with a single finger as blood dripped from it and fell to the ground, expanding the shadows at her feet.

  “Look closer. I had already created them?” (Liz)

  The shield around Liz cracked until they split into 4 small sized centipedes. When V looked at where they came from, she noticed it wasn’t the ground but rather her shadow.

  “Is this also blood magic?” (V)

  “I'll explain my little tricks after I took over for my uncle. Get her my little cents” (Liz)

  V flew into the air in order to avoid Liz's creatures. Changing her strategy, V moved from using her chant-less magic.

  "Gravity.” (V)

  With one word, a strong force pushed the centipedes down to the ground as if they were being stepped on until only broken pieces were left. The slight distraction allowed Liz to jump above her with a ball of blood as it hardened.

  “So, there is magic that requires you to speak. I almost thought you were an exception.” (Liz)

  The blood shattered, sending small birds flying at V. Once they were in close proximity, they exploded like proximity mines, sending fragments to deal damage. She was able to deflect the fatal ones but still received slashes around her body as she crashed back down to the ground.

  "Allister helped push it forward but it was my grandmother that helped introduce chant-less magic as a theory. You've guys been working hard without him." (Liz)

  "Magic is based on formulas and runes." (V)

  "I'm older than I look you know. I don't need the lessons." (Liz)

  "Mages are striving for one thing... How to use chant-less magic but currently, that requires one important factor. The ability to memorize them. When it comes to the mage, using voiceless magic gives us a head start and stops it from being dispelled. Although speaking still has its benefits since the words help us focus the magic we want to use. After all, one's mind can deviate or get clouded.” (V)

  Liz smiled at her words. The Chroniclers were one of the only noble families whose vampiric abilities weren't based off of physical prowess but memories itself. Even vampires weren't safe from overloading their minds from living practically forever expect for one family, the Chroniclers.

  Knowing my uncle, I'm sure he has already begun his studies on my family. After all, replicating spells and creating similar spells is one of his specialties. (Liz)

  Liz couldn't help but laugh, her reasons for coming to the Magic Kingdom wasn't to be a teacher and yet, it felt like fate. Was this pure coincidence or was she being steered towards a certain path as well?

  “Alright, lets continue our fight.” (Liz)

  V gathered water from the atmosphere and surrounded Liz with it. The water froze creating ice mirrors. Liz could see past the ice, just many reflections of herself staring back.

  "I call this move, Crystalized Echos” (V)

  Liz played along with her spell, but the oddest thing was when her reflection stopped copying what she was doing and jumped out the mirror, tackling her to the ground.

  They look just like me, but they're made of ice... I don’t sense anything in them so they shouldn’t be able to use my abilities…. (Liz)

  Liz shoved her arm into her shadow and pulled out a silver sword.

  "Careful now, if close combat is your next move, they can easily steal that blade and kill you with it.” (V)

  “Please, even I know this magic is new to you. I can’t use my shadows like my dad, but I can at least do this.” (Liz)

  Liz extended her hand and used the shadow below V’s feet to restrain her. The sudden move caused the clones to freeze a moment which Liz used to run them down. Before V knew it, she had a sword at her neck.

  “I guess the match is over.” (V)

  "So what? Did I pass?" (Liz)

  Everyone cheered and clapped in unison as Liz stuck her fist in the air.

  "By the way, I know you just wanted to test your new skills on me. Thanks, that was fun." (Liz)

  "So, you do know everything" (V)

  "No, it was just obvious, just like your clone. You used your own reflection while I was distracted, didn't you?" (Liz)

  As they talked, behind Liz was another one of her creatures facing the other V or rather, her original. The one she had been fighting evaporated after Liz's reply. Everyone ran down the stairs in excitement as they surrounded Liz.

  ”That was amazing!” (??)

  “Vampires are so cool!!” (???)

  After High fiving everyone, Liz shook V’s hand and whispered in her ear.

  "I know you’re different from my uncle. So, are you just an offspring of one?” (Liz)

  Vanessa didn't respond but it was alright, Lis was never expecting a reply to begin with.

  "Alright everyone, my lesson begins next week!” (Liz)

  “” Yea!! “”

  After everything ended, Liz had V and Milly escort her to Allister's private room but what she wasn't expecting was for it to appear out of thin air from within the library.

  "Space magic that can only be accessed through this library... Amazing. I'm seeing all types of magic today." (Liz)

  "Other than lady Denise, the mages you've met are inexperienced. I doubt they even have the slightest idea of the kind of magic we're using and even if they attended our academy. It could take years to master. Elemental magic is the most common practice after all" (V)

  "This place seems secured, and yet I saw my adding more seals. Why?" (Liz)

  "Well, the truth is... If for any reason, if my dad and everyone else were to die... This room would only appear once a year. What's important is inside the room." (Milly)

  "He'd prefer it if the elders didn't find it. In fact, he doesn't want humanity to find any of his personal work but if some lucky people were to decode his seals... Then he wouldn't care." (V)

  Liz thought about it for a second and came to the conclusion that Allister made no sense. Did he want people to find it or not?

  "I don't get it... Wait, do you guys always finish each other's sentences?" (Liz)

  "No." (V)

  "It just so happens that we know what the other is about to say." (Milly)

  "So, we don't have to waste time with explaining when the other." (V)

  "Can help better explain it if need be." (Milly)

  "You guys are messing with me and I don't like it." (Liz)

  "That right, it had been itching away at me, but V helped me remember. When I first saw you in the Last Frontier, you were older. What happened?" (Liz)

  "Oh this... It's a defect" (Milly)

  "Magic tends to leak out of her and when it does, it's like poof! she's young again. Allister created a device that helped circulate that magic she releases and return it back to her but..." (V)

  "When I fought my sister, I guess it overloaded and broke apart." (Milly)

  "Still, to constantly release so much magic and not die is... very interesting." (Liz)

  "it's not uncommon in mages but she's a very rare case. Since she's still alive of course. I've been taking over for my teacher's research on the matter but it's hard since she's human and not a machine." (V)

  "My father was very interested in why I was alive too. He says I just have a huge pool like of magic that never runs empty. Perhaps that's why I'm a guardian with two colors. I can still use magic; the only problem is that I stay looking like a kid." (Milly)

  Some one other that Sophia with that much magic... A defect just like Jorge... I wonder." (Liz)

  "Fascinating. I have an idea that might work. Perhaps I can fast-forward and see how it turns out." (Liz)

  "Will that effect you in anyway? I mean...?" (Milly)

  

  "Grandmother... you're back." (Liz)

  "How long has it been?" (Lilith)

  "For me? I don't know, a few minute probably but it seems like you've been coming back older and older." (Liz)

  Liz explored the imaginary forest she was stuck in but got bored and just laid on the ground, waiting for her grandmother.

  I’ve only encountered her a few numbers of times, but our meeting never added up.

  

  "So, you’re saying you’ve met older versions of me as well?" (Liz)

  "Didn't I tell you? I can't control how far I go." (Lilith)

  "No, you didn't. A majority of your lessons were mind games and term and, well... None of them were about teaching me how to control this power." (Liz)

  Liz looked away in a frustration. She didn't want to talk about it but her other reasons for being mad was because Lilith never stayed long, and she was tired of being asleep. What was happening in the real world? Do they think she dead? Is everyone alright after that whole commotion?

  "Alright, where did the other me leave off?" (Lilith)

  "The punishment for changing time and what exactly you did." (Liz)

  Liz looked away, knowing she wasn't telling the whole truth, but Lilith was already aware.

  "Also... You never answered my question. Skipping through time like this with no stops or control… is this your punishment?" (Liz)

  She didn't laugh it off or make any lame jokes like she usually does. Is it because she's older? Or did I just hit a nerve?

  

  "Clever girl. Unfortunately, it’s still too soon for you. We’ll meet again when you're older." (Lilith)

  Liz laid back down on the ground feeling defeated.

  "I’m tired of being here. What's the point of all this?" (Liz)

  "The point is to train your mental state. You're already aware of how time is working for me but when you wake up again. Nothing will be the same. You need to prepare." (Lilith)

  "Because of the power?" (Liz)

  "We aren't gods. This power can't be mastered but knowing and understanding it will help when you wake up. That's why I gave you things to think about. There's no secret or book to using it. Look, I’ll tell you this much... I did it for my family… for my kids. I couldn’t protect the man I loved and so now I will save the ones I can… no matter what." (Lilith)

  "And the punishment?" (Liz)

  "Some in the past lost their sight overtime while other lost almost all their motor functions. Its the brain not being to handle the change around it. Its one thing to live that long but to experience different futures and change them all at once... can be too much for anyone to handle. You asked what my punishment was?" (Lilith)

  "Yes!" (Liz)

  "You were right. This is my punishment but meeting you? that part has been a blessing... a sort of hook for me. When I'm older... I'll be a lot weaker." (Lilith)

  She stared of into the distant, as if longing for something. Did she miss her family? Or did she just miss her old life?

  "Cousin. You're spacing off again." (Milly)

  "Sorry. There are consequences, but I know how to handle them if it comes to it." (Liz)

  Although Jorge's fate might have been the biggest crime, I've committed but I'm still alright. the power of this world must have something in store for me... I wish I knew what, but I know one thing... I can't see as far anymore... (Liz)

  -----------------------------------------------------------

  "My lady, allow me to at least be by your side" (Margo)

  "Sorry but its best if you don't. I've been ghosting these guys for a while now but its time I faced them. Besides, I'm worried they'll offend you." (Sophia)

  Since the attack on the Last Frontier and Liz's arrival, on top of a few other new faces, the Council of elders have been demanding Sophia's attention. Other than having control over Sophia and Allister's power, they also each held different titles. Some controlled different parts of the city, some were groups that passed judgement when crimes were committed and so on. One man who was always on Allister's side and therefore Sophia's, was a man by the name of Giovanni. He was the head of research and development and ran a lab from within the academy.

  As Sophia entered a dark room, all the lights were focused on her.

  "Sophia, you have given us your report, but we have yet to hear what you have to say about the incident." (?)

  "We've sent our own mages to help with repairs, but they've told us the city was attacked by the dead. Some even exploded." (??)

  "Such abilities can only mean..." (???)

  "Yes. Milly told me this attack was orchestrated by three individuals with white hair and green eyes." (Sophia)

  "Then that means the death god has awoken! " (?)

  "We should cut off all ties with other kingdoms, if they were to track our locations through them then we'd..." (??)

  "Hold on, there's no reason to panic." (Sophia)

  Her words were ignored, even though mages were powerful, the thought of an attack from demons could spell the end of the world. Mages were deemed humanities last hope and have since focused on improving their magic but the one thing that worried them the most was the fall of their queen.

  "Everyone, just listen. From what I've heard, my teacher and his niece actually fought them and prevailed. It's safe to assume they haven't reached their full potential. Granted, there's a possibility these Soulless were probably still young... but thanks to Elizabeth Chronicler, we can at least depend on the vampires for help." (Giovanni)

  Everyone was silent but some still neglected the idea of asking vampires for help. The war between the two may have been a long time ago but many generations past whereas the grandkids of those vampires still existed today.

  "Last I heard, she ran away from her home. Why would they help her now?" (??)

  "We must get a more detailed report from the Seer herself. Perhaps she has some insight for us." (?)

  "You must also contact Allister and have him return. His first mission is to bring back those rogue Guardians as well." (??)

  "I can't, I've lost all communications with him. We may have completed our connection with the Last Frontier, but the Lost City is still proving difficult. We're too far from one another but that's where Allister comes in. Once the Last Frontier is stable again, we'll have them contact him." (Sophia)

  Their meeting was adjourned, Sophia had Margo follow her to the library.

  "How much did you hear?" (Sophia)

  "Everything. If vampires train hard enough, they can improve their hearing. Who is the death god?" (Margo)

  "A demon who never got his wings clipped and decided to take refuge within a mortal body. It's said he was the one to start all of this, but no one ever had any proof that he existed." (Sophia)

  "What does he want?" (Margo)

  "He's like a white canvas and I hold the color of this world. In other words, he wants my power." (Sophia)

  -------------------------------------------------------------

  "Hey cousin, is there someone in your life?" (Milly)

  While the girls rummaged through Allister's stuff in order to organize his work, Milly sudden question made Liz freeze.

  "That's a random question. Why ask about that?" (Liz)

  "Because Ricky asked her out on a date a while back, but she didn't know how to react." (V)

  "Shut up!" (Milly)

  "I guess I do but he can be a little stubborn. He still blames himself for everything that happened. He's so ashamed of himself that he hides behind a mask." (Liz)

  

  "Oh dear!" (House Maid)

  A maid had dropped her pan of fresh water when she found Liz with her eyes open, her instant response was to run and find David

  When I woke up, I found out that the hours I spent dreaming and talking to my grandmother was actually a week in real life. I later learned my mother had passed away. Gabriel and Lisa were asleep, and my father was dealing with his own problems. The only person by my bed side was...

  "Al... your hair... It's yellow now." (Liz)

  Liz stuck her hand out and placed it on the shivering boy's face. He was covered in bandages that still had blood stains on them, but she only talked about his hair, to show that she wasn't bothered by his appearance. As Tears flowed down, his hair glowed yellow. Small sparks of lightning would be released, creating little dots of lights as they floated down like dying fireflies.

  "..." (Al)

  "I'm ok. We're ok, so stop making that face." (Liz)

  "But he's a story for another time." (Liz)