25. Chapter 25

25

Chapter 25

Rowan

I follow Kara and Gran through the woods behind our house, fighting down excitement and dread. We're heading to the old stone circle – a place our ancestors have used for powerful rituals for generations. It feels right to connect with Mia here.

"Are you sure about this, Rowan?" Kara whispers, her eyes searching mine. "I feel like I kind of forced you into this…"

I smile, trying to project more confidence than I feel. "It's fine. I can do this. I want to do this. For Mia."

We reach the clearing, where weathered stone slabs form a perfect circle. Mom and Dad are already there, setting out candles and herbs. I can practically feel their anticipation on my skin.

"Darlings! You're here!" Mom comes over with hands outstretched, pulling us each in for a warm hug. She looks happier than I've seen her in weeks. "That's a pretty scarf, Ro. Are you all set?" she asks.

"Absolutely!" I nod eagerly, wanting to show her that I'm fully on board.

Dad joins us. "It's going to be a good night." He squeezes my arm. His smile is more reserved than Mom's, but I can see he's excited too. "Shall we begin? Mom and I have set everything up."

Gran starts arranging us around the circle. "Remember," she says, her voice steady, "we're reaching across the veil to connect with Mia's essence. Focus on your love for her, on your shared blood."

I take my place, acutely aware that I'm the weak link in our family's magical chain.

Not anymore.

The power I gained from Darick courses through me, unfamiliar yet potent. Despite my earlier doubts, I can feel it now.

We join hands. Gran begins the incantation, her voice rising and falling in the ancient language of our craft. The candles flicker, and I feel the magic building.

It's working!

Then, it's my turn to add my power to the circle. I close my eyes, channeling everything I have into connecting with Mia.

Please, let this work. Let us find her.

A surge of energy rushes through me, far stronger than anything I've ever felt before – although to be fair, I've never felt much of anything before. The clearing blazes with light as our combined magic connects, sealing the circle.

Gran's voice rises and falls, the ancient words resonating through the circle. Mom and Dad join in, their voices blending in perfect harmony. I take a deep breath, steeling myself for my part.

As Kara and I add our voices to the chant, the energy in the circle intensifies. The candles flare brighter, their flames reaching impossibly high. A curtain of light begins to form between the stones, pulsing with our combined magic.

I pour everything I have into the spell, drawing on the new power I gained from Darick. For a moment, it feels incredible. I'm actually contributing, holding my own alongside my family's formidable abilities.

But then I feel it start to slip.

The unfamiliar magic within me flickers and sputters like a candle in a gusting breeze. I grit my teeth, desperately trying to hold onto it, but it's like reaching for tendrils of smoke. Panic rises in my chest as I realize I can't maintain the connection.

"No, no, no," I whisper, my voice breaking the rhythm of the chant.

The glimmering curtain wavers and I can see the concern in Gran's eyes as she glances my way. I try to rally, to push through, but it's no use. The power is fading fast, slipping through my fingers like sand.

With a sound like shattering glass, the circle of light collapses. The candles gutter out, plunging us into darkness. As my eyes adjust, I see the disappointed and worried faces of my family.

"I'm sorry," I choke out, tears welling in my eyes. "I thought I could do it. I thought I was strong enough this time."

The weight of failure crashes down on me. Once again, I've let everyone down. We were so close to reaching Mia, and I ruined it. I sink to my knees, overwhelmed by guilt and heartbreak.

I look up at my family through tear-filled eyes, expecting to see disappointment. Instead, I'm met with expressions of awe and concern.

"Rowan, honey, that was incredible," Mom says, kneeling beside me and wrapping an arm around me.

Dad nods in agreement. "I've never felt our circle so strong. The power was…extraordinary."

"But it failed," I choke out. "I couldn't hold it. It's my fault we can't find Mia."

Kara crouches down on my other side, her voice gentle. "Ro, you did amazing. We've never gotten that close before. This isn't on you."

I shake my head, unable to accept their kindness. "If I were stronger, if I could just—"

"Stop right there, young lady," Gran interrupts, her tone firm but loving. She steps forward, her eyes locked on mine. "This is not your fault. Not one bit."

"But Gran—"

She holds up a hand, silencing me. "Rowan, listen to me. What we just experienced was the strongest magical working our family has ever achieved. The fact that we couldn't reach Mia… Well, that tells us something important."

I wipe my eyes, confused. "What do you mean?"

Gran sighs, her expression softening. "It means that either Mia isn't out there to be found, or her aura is so weak that even the most powerful circle might not be able to reach her."

The implications of her words settle over us like a heavy blanket. I feel relief that it's not entirely my fault, and a renewed sense of worry for my sister.

"So, what do we do now?" I ask, determined to pull myself together.

Wallowing in self-pity, Rowan. No more of that!

"We keep trying," Kara says firmly.

Mom and Dad exchange looks, something silent passing between them.

"I'd like to do that, darling," Mom says to him. "I know we said we'd set a timeline, but…

"Shhh…" Dad slides an arm around her waist and bends down to rest his forehead against hers. They stand there for a second, so regal and beautiful that I wonder how they ever made me. "We try as many times as you need to, my love."

Mom gives a little nod, her eyes drifting shut.

What do I do? I can't let them suffer this way. Maybe if Gran is right, and Mia's aura is very weak, we'd be able to reach her if we used a really big burst of power. Unless she's—

Stop.

I refuse to think about the alternative.

"Let's take a break," Dad is saying. "I think we could all use something to eat. A tall, cool drink, too. I know I could." He keeps his tone light.

"Fabulous idea, darling." Mom's voice is upbeat, too. She links her arm through his as they leave the circle, finding the path that leads back home. Kara nods and falls in behind them.

How do they do that?

I know they're hurting. I guess they've spent so much time putting a brave face on for us that it's become second nature.

Well, I'm going to give them a reason to be happy. I'll make sure of it!

"Rowan? Are you alright, sweetheart?" Gran has fallen in step beside me.

"Sure. I'm fine, Gran," I tell her.

She observes me for a moment. "You haven't had any more problems with… you know who?"

"What?" I'm startled, though I should have expected this.

"You know what I'm talking about."

I bite my lip, avoiding Gran's perceptive gaze. "Well…there might have been some contact," I admit reluctantly.

Gran's eyes narrow. "Some contact? Rowan, I need you to be more specific."

I fuss with the edge of my shirt, desperately wishing I could disappear into the forest floor. "It's nothing, really. Just…a few more dreams. And maybe a conversation or two."

"Rowan." Gran's voice is gentle but firm. "I can sense there's more to this. You know you can trust me, don't you?"

I nod, feeling tears prick at the corners of my eyes. "I do, Gran. It's just…I don't know how to explain it."

She takes my hand, her touch warm and comforting. "Try. Has this vampire done something to hurt you?"

"No!" I say quickly, then wince at how defensive it sounds. "I mean, no, he hasn't hurt me. It's just…we've been talking. And…" I trail off, unsure how to explain without revealing everything.

Gran's expression softens with understanding. "Rowan, are you developing feelings for this vampire?"

I feel my cheeks flush hot with embarrassment. "What? Never! I mean… Maybe? But it's not like that. There's something…different about our connection. It's like he's boosting my magic somehow."

Gran blinks in surprise. "Boosting your magic? That's…unusual, to say the least. Rowan, I need you to tell me everything. No more holding back."

So I tell her. At least I tell her as much as I can without touching on the alarming way my body reacts to him. But I tell her how my power surges after each interaction. I tell her I hit him with a sunflare…which makes her smile. I tell her about the bites…how he's taken my blood.

And I tell her how I'm thinking of contacting him now to help build my power even further.

Right. That's the only reason you want to contact him.

"Oh dear. Oh dear, oh dear." Gran suddenly looks every one of her seventy-seven years.

"Do you think I'm making a mistake?"

I fidget nervously as Gran considers my confession. Her brow is furrowed, and I can practically see the gears turning in her mind.

Finally, she takes a deep breath and meets my eyes. "Rowan, sweetheart, you're a grown woman capable of making your own decisions. I won't tell you what to do."

Relief washes over me, but it's short-lived as Gran continues.

"However," she says, her tone gentle but firm, "I'd like you to try something else first before you consider…furthering this connection with the vampire."

I nod, eager to hear her suggestion. "Of course, Gran. What did you have in mind?"

Gran's eyes light up with determination. "I'm going to call up some of the elders and arrange a gathering. We'll perform a strengthening spell for you."

"A strengthening spell?" I repeat, intrigued.

"Yes," Gran nods. "It's an ancient ritual that can help boost a witch's innate magical abilities. It's not something we do lightly, but given the circumstances, I think it's worth trying."

"If you can do that, why didn't you use it on me before?" I frown.

"We did, dear. When you were a child." Gran's smile is gentle. "It just didn't work as expected."

Or even at all.

"So why would it work now?"

"Because…" Gran pauses. "I think things are…different."

Very different. Like now, I might actually have a scrap of magic to work with.

Still, I feel a flutter of excitement in my chest. "Do you really think it could help?"

Gran smiles warmly. "I do. These are some of the most powerful witches I know. If anyone can help unlock your potential, it's them."

As Gran pulls out her phone to start making calls, I can't help but feel a flutter of hope and nervousness. Part of me wonders if this will be enough, if it can match the rush of power I feel with Darick. But I push that thought aside, determined to give this a chance.

"Thank you, Gran," I say softly. "I really appreciate you doing this for me."

She pauses her dialing to squeeze my hand. "Of course, dear. We're family. We look out for each other."

Once we get back home, Gran explains to the others that we're going to run a few errands together. Nobody questions it. I think they're all just relieved to be able to rest after the rush of energy we just burned up.

Heading out of the house, I climb into Gran's car, my stomach a knot of nerves and anticipation. As we drive through the darkening streets, I can't help but wonder what this gathering of powerful witches will be like. Will they be able to unlock something in me that's been dormant all these years? Maybe I won't need the vampire at all.

"Where are we going, Gran?" I ask.

"The Hidden Oasis," she replies, her eyes fixed on the road. "It's Lysandra's private sanctuary. The perfect place for a ritual like this."

My heart skips a beat at the mention of Lysandra Starfire. She's one of the most respected witches in our community, known for her mastery of healing magic and her deep connection with the universe.

We pull up to a nondescript building on the outskirts of town. As we approach the entrance, the air seems to shimmer, revealing a lush garden oasis hidden behind a veil of magic.

Lysandra herself greets us at the door, her serene features exuding an aura of calm and wisdom. "Welcome, Evelyn, Rowan. The others are waiting inside."

As we step into a circular room, I freeze. Among the group of elder witches is Heath, Astra's son. My old crush.

What is he doing here?

Heath gives me a small smile and a nod, and I quickly look away, focusing on the other witches in the room.

Gran clears her throat, drawing everyone's attention. "Thank you all for coming on such short notice," she begins. "We're here to perform a strengthening spell for my granddaughter, Rowan."

I feel all eyes turn to me, and I shrink back. These are people I've known for years, but beneath their scrutiny, I'm uncomfortable.

"Rowan has been experiencing some…unusual magical occurrences lately," Gran continues carefully. "We believe a strengthening ritual could help her harness and control these new abilities."

Astra steps forward, studying me intently. "Rowan, how are the wards we placed in your dream world working for you?"

I feel a wave of discomfort wash over me because they had no effect on Darick at all. "They're…working, I guess," I mumble, avoiding her gaze.

Lysandra nods to Astra, then steps forward herself, her presence gentle but commanding. "Well, now, let's begin the preparations."

I watch in awe as the elder witches begin to prepare for the ritual. They move with practiced ease, arranging crystals and herbs in intricate patterns around me. The atmosphere grows rich with magic, tingling against my skin.

Lysandra takes the lead, her voice clear and melodious as she begins to chant. The others join in, their voices weaving together in a haunting harmony. I close my eyes, trying to open myself to whatever power they're calling forth.

As the chanting intensifies, I feel a warmth spreading through my body. It's different from the rush of energy I get with Darick – gentler but somehow deeper. For a moment, I think I can sense the magic flowing through me, connecting me to the earth beneath my feet and the stars above.

Then, as quickly as it began, the chanting stops. I open my eyes, blinking in the sudden quiet.

Lysandra approaches me, her expression thoughtful. "Well, Rowan, we've done what we can for now. It may take some time to see if the spell has had its full effect."

I nod, trying to hide my disappointment. I'd hoped for something more…immediate. The way it is with the vampire magic. "Thank you all for trying," I say, managing a small smile.

Gran steps forward, placing a comforting hand on my shoulder. "Why don't you head home and get some rest, dear? I need to discuss a few things with the others."

"Okay, Gran," I agree, suddenly feeling exhausted.

"Heath," Gran calls, "would you mind giving Rowan a ride home?"

He nods, flashing a charming smile. "Of course, Lady Blackwood. It would be my pleasure."

As we head toward the door, I glance back at Gran and the other witches. They're already huddled together, speaking in low, urgent tones. I can't help but wonder what they're discussing – and whether it has anything to do with the strange connection I share with Darick. I can't imagine that Gran would share my secret, though.

I slide into Heath's car, still preoccupied by the ritual. As we pull away from the Hidden Oasis, he glances over at me, his eyes sparkling with curiosity.

"So, Rowan," he says, his voice warm and friendly, "I was surprised to learn about these new magical abilities. Pretty exciting!"

I shift uncomfortably in my seat. "Oh, um, yeah. It's been…interesting."

Heath's enthusiasm is unmistakable. "What kind of powers are we talking about? Elemental magic? Divination? Or is it something rare like dreamwalking?" He winks.

I bite my lip, unsure how much to reveal. "It's kind of hard to explain. I'm still figuring it out myself." This much is true.

"Well, whatever it is, it must be pretty special if it warranted a strengthening ritual," Heath says, flashing me a dazzling smile.

As we drive, Heath peppers me with questions about my magic, my family, and what I've been up to lately. I answer as best I can, but my mind keeps drifting to Darick. I can't shake the image of his startling eyes, the way he touched me.

Before I know it, we're pulling up in front of my house. Heath puts the car in park and turns to face me.

"Hey, Rowan," he says, suddenly looking a bit nervous. "I was wondering… would you like to grab coffee sometime? Maybe we could talk more about your new powers?"

I blink in surprise. Heath Moonshadow, the guy I've had a crush on for years, is asking me out? A few months ago, this would have been a dream come true. But now…

"Oh, um, that's really nice of you to offer," I stammer. "Can I think about it?"

Heath nods, looking a bit disappointed but still smiling. "Of course. No pressure. Just let me know." As if on impulse, he leans forward and brushes a chaste kiss on my cheek.

I thank him for the ride and climb out of the car. As I walk up to my front door, my mind is a whirlwind of confusion. Heath's sudden interest, the ritual, and through it all, Darick's face keeps flashing in my mind.

What does this all mean?