Chapter 12

CHAPTER 12

F iona

Gismos chuckled at my eagerness. "We should make our way to my house before we delve into any further discussions. There are many ears nearby and along the way, who I am certain you do not want to know your business."

With a nod of understanding, we followed Gismos out of the pub. A pang of guilt gnawed at me. "Shouldn't we pay Lila for the food and drinks?" I wondered aloud. Not that I had Nocturne money. My cheeks flushed with embarrassment.

Otia chuckled softly, her voice carrying an air of amusement. "Fiona, my dear," she replied, "things work a bit differently here in Nocturne. We don't use money like you do in the mortal realm."

I smacked my forehead. "Oh, right," I mumbled sheepishly. "I keep forgetting about that."

Violet stifled a laugh beside me. Her eyes twinkled with amusement. "Thank the gods for that because we only have quid with us, and I doubt that would go very far here."

Changing the subject, I asked, "Why can't we discuss this out here? I don't see anyone around us." I cast a sideways glance at Gismos.

His expression was unreadable as he turned to face me. "A person doesn't have to be near for there to be ears nearby. This isn't the mortal world where we had to hide who we were. We live out in the open here."

That was a sobering thought. My mind buzzed with questions and anticipation for what lay ahead as I fell into step behind Gismos. My attention turned to our surroundings. There were many still out and about, but not as many as before when we'd made our way to the pub.

Much like on Earth in our small town of Cottlehill Wilds, the buildings in this section of the city towered two to three stories above us. Their facades were made of the same stone. All were adorned with glowing symbols, and intricate carvings shimmered in the ethereal light. Each structure exuded an aura of otherworldly charm. It was beautiful and fascinating at the same time.

Otia pointed toward a quaint storefront with a whimsical sign depicting a swirling potion cauldron. "If you need a tincture while you're here, visit Runa's Apothecary," she remarked with a fond smile playing on her lips. "Runa's potions are renowned throughout Nocturne. She's been perfecting her craft for centuries."

Gismos nodded in agreement as his gaze swept over the big picture window next door. There were rows of books and enchanted artifacts. "Are those spell books?" I asked.

Gismos nodded. "Yes. That's Mystic Tomes," he added. "Marcus, the owner, is a scholar of ancient magic. His collection holds secrets from all sorts of beings. There are some geared toward witchcraft, others to demigods, and also to the Fae."

"Are there many witches or Fae living here?" Aislinn asked .

Otia tilted her head from shoulder to shoulder a few times before she said, "There are a fair few. They stick to the east side."

We passed another business that grabbed my attention. Looking inside, I thought it looked like a charming potion brewery. The air was filled with the scent of exotic herbs and spices that mingled with the faint hum of arcane energies.

Kitris's voice in my ear startled me when she said, "That's Moonstone Brews. It's owned by a witch and warlock. Maris and Theron have mastered the art of potion-making. Their brews are sought after by travelers and locals alike."

"I need more of their GlowGetter," Otia added and shot the door a speculative look.

Kitris cooed and smiled her agreement. "That stuff is the best. Makes my skin smooth and silky. I use it after I've been harvesting the berries on my farm. Nothing works better."

"Sounds intriguing." I almost spun around and asked if we could get a jar. My skin had gotten better once my magic was unblocked, but I still bore the marks of middle age. "I'd love to get the recipe."

"That's proprietary. They filed the paperwork with the council so others couldn't take that from them," Gismos said before he gestured toward a shop. The windows had polished weaponry and shimmering armor sitting inside. "I don't recommend paying Starforge Armory a visit. That'll make Tarae spring into action faster than you can blink. Although Lyra crafts weapons of unparalleled quality. Each piece is infused with the power of the stars, forged to withstand the test of time."

I lifted a shoulder, not caring that we couldn't go inside. "She sounds talented, but we have the best blacksmith ever born on Earth and Eidothea."

Otia's gaze softened as she directed our attention to a charming tea house with a warm, inviting glow. " You have to go to Serenity Tea House before you leave. Elara creates blends that soothe the soul and awaken the senses. Her teas are a cherished tradition among Nocturne's residents."

"I can't believe all of this runs without money. How do you manage it?" Aislinn asked. "It takes a lot to make the products in these stores."

Gismos crossed the street as he considered her question. "It's been that way since the beginning. We could not go from a monetized system to one without. Those benefitting from such a system would revolt and refuse to let us change it. It works because everyone cooperates and provides something to the collective."

Otia nodded in agreement before she turned around and walked backward. "I will take you to Sweet Serenades Bakery in the morning," she promised right before the smell of freshly baked pastries filled the air.

Gismos's expression turned dreamy. "Absolutely! Luca and Esme are master bakers. They're known for their delectable treats and warm hospitality. Nocturne wouldn't be the same without them."

I marveled at the diversity and ingenuity of Nocturne's inhabitants. There was so much of it in a place created for Nyx's children. "We're almost there." Gismos's voice interrupted my thoughts.

"That's my cue. I will leave you in Gismos's capable hands," Kitris informed us with a friendly smile.

My heart started racing when I noticed the imposing house up ahead. I looked to Kitris. Her presence had been a reassuring guide through the labyrinthine streets. She smiled and dipped her chin, indicating we were okay.

"Would you accompany us to Gismos's house?" I asked, wanting her to remain with us.

Gismos's imposing abode. The house stood as a testament to its owner's stature. Its grandeur rivaled even the most majestic of earthly castles. When Kitris didn't respond, I saw a silent exchange between Kitris and Gismos before he nodded his consent.

"I would be more than happy to join the fun," Kitris replied. The prospect of having Kitris by our side brought a sense of security, a shield against the unknown that lurked in the shadows.

Otia chuckled and clapped Gismos on the shoulder. "You know I will be joining you guys. I wouldn't miss this for the world."

"As if you would be anywhere else under the circumstances," Gismos teased Otia as he continued down the road.

The closer we got to Gismos's residence, the more I was stunned by its magnificence. The architecture was a blend of ancient craftsmanship and elegance. Towering spires reached towards the starlit sky with an air of regal authority. The landscaping was right out of Better Homes and Gardens.

"What purpose do these serve?" Violet pointed to the symbols on the house. Thank the gods, her curiosity had been piqued by the glowing sigils adorning the eaves of the houses because I'd wanted to ask several times as we walked through town. Unfortunately, my wayward mind kept sidetracking me.

Gismos glanced up with a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Those are my protective wards," he explained. "They help ward off unwanted visitors and keep our homes safe. The ones on businesses do the same."

Otia lifted a finger and wagged it at him. "Not all of them. The big ones in the windows are the names of the places."

Aislinn furrowed her brow and moved closer. "I had assumed that was their purpose. What happens if someone tries to breach them?" she pressed.

Gismos's smile widened, and there was a hint of mischief in his eyes. "Well, it depends on the ward," he replied cryptically. "Some are set to stun and incapacitate intruders, while others... let's just say they have a more... persuasive effect."

Otia snorted at his response and shook her head. "Only those like Tarae use the more violent methods to protect their domain."

"Sounds like quite the security system," I observed. "We have something similar, but there's nothing like this visible."

Otia gave me a knowing smile. "That's because their magic needs to be hidden."

Violet snorted. "That's an understatement."

I agreed but was too busy taking in the outside of the house to respond. The porch was large but entirely empty. I'd add a couple of rocking chairs and a table so I could sit and enjoy the evenings. Then again, if I were in Gismos's shoes, I wouldn't want to be out where I could get bombarded by requests or problems.

The air crackled with a subtle energy when we went inside the home. I think it was the wards testing us, although I didn't feel anything. Standing in the entryway, I inhaled and absorbed the atmosphere. The entire place was alive with Gismos's magic, but I didn't sense malevolence anywhere around us.

Focusing on my immediate surroundings, I noted how the entranceway was adorned with intricate carvings. Gismos led us down a short hall and into the living room. At first, I didn't know the purpose of the space until furniture materialized out of thin air. Elegant sofas and armchairs upholstered in luxurious fabrics and a wood coffee table adorned with delicate etchings filled the space.

"Woah, that was crazy," Violet blurted. "Why doesn't your furniture stay here all the time?"

Gismos chuckled. "I activated a cleaning spell during our walk so the place would be ready when we arrived. I'm embarrassed to say it's been too long since I ran a deep clean."

"That would come in handy at my house," Aislinn quipped. "Living with two dragons is messy."

I nudged her shoulder with a smile. "Especially when one of them is your five-year-old daughter who loves glitter and everything shiny."

"Are you a dragon?" Kitris asked. Her expression was a mix of fascination and fear.

Aislinn shook her head. "No, my mate and our daughter are, though."

"I'd love to hear stories before you leave," Gismos interjected. "In the meantime, would anyone care for any refreshments?"

Otia asked for tea as did Violet, but the rest of us declined anything. Aislinn wasted no time in bombarding Gismos, Kitris, and Otia with questions about Metis and Nyx. Her apprehension was a tangible force in the air. Gismos stroked his chin thoughtfully as he thought through every inquiry she'd rattled off. "The answers to what you'd like to know are complicated," he began. "I recall tales of Nyx's alliance with Metis. If I'm not mistaken, there were rumors about them being involved with the explosion of that volcano you mentioned. Though the mention of a shield is new to me. And I admit incredibly intriguing."

Otia nodded in agreement though her expression was grave. "Nyx has always sought dominion over both mortal and divine realms," she explained, "and she will stop at nothing to achieve her ambitions." I could hardly believe the open knowledge of Nyx's insatiable thirst for power. As Gismos and Otia continued their tales of Nyx's desires, the room seemed to hum with otherworldly energy, drawing us deeper into the mysteries of Nocturne.

"Legend has it that Nyx's ambitions knew no bounds," Gismos continued in a voice carrying the weight of ages past. "She sought not just dominion over mortal and divine realms but over the very fabric of existence itself. I've always considered Mother a big dreamer. She rarely follows through on things. It shocked us all when she finished this realm."

Otia nodded in agreement, her eyes reflecting the flickering light of the room. "Nyx is a being of immense power and ambition," she added, her voice tinged with reverence. "Her thirst for control drove her to forge alliances with beings of great influence, like Metis. I've never spoken to her about it, but we've all been privy to her rantings from time to time."

"What do you mean by that?" Aislinn clarified.

Otia waved a dismissive hand through the air. "She comes here occasionally and talks about her latest project or plan. Lately, she's been complaining about the clique on Olympus and how they will regret looking down on those they consider lesser gods."

I leaned in closer, captivated by their words. "Okay, so what does Nyx hope to achieve with such power? It sounds like she wants to make her relatives pay." I shuddered to think of what a feud between powerful beings like this would do to the rest of the world.

Gismos paused for a moment, clearly considering his words carefully. "Some say that Nyx sought to reshape reality," he replied. "To bend the laws of existence to her will. And become the ultimate arbiter of fate." So, she wanted to take over the Moirai. That was even more terrifying.

Otia nodded in agreement, her expression grave. "Nyx believed that with enough power, she could shape the destiny of all beings, mortal and divine," she added. "But her quest for control led her down a dark path. Between you and me. It's one from which there may be no return. "

My stomach rebelled over the thought and I felt like I was going to be sick. Unchecked by conscience or morality, the thought of such limitless ambition sent a chill through me. Was this really what she wanted? Or was that talk from a bored goddess? We couldn't let her do this if that were the case. I was about to question what we could do when I stopped myself. Deep down, I knew that it would be us if anyone could uncover the truth behind Nyx's desires.

Pursing my lips, I tilted my head to the side and focused on our new friends. "Is there more about this in the library?"

Gismos nodded. "There are likely a couple of books on the matter."

My heart raced excitedly at the thought of exploring the library and uncovering its secrets. "Perfect, when can we go?" I blurted out eagerly. I hoped we could go right then.

Gismos chuckled warmly. "We will take you first thing in the morning. I promise. I would take you tonight if I could. Getting you all home right away will be the best thing for us all since you are on Tarae's radar. But it is not open and would raise too much notice."

A shudder traveled down my back. "We've been through enough to know precisely how much trouble can be caused by someone like her."

Aislinn nodded at the same time her hand came up, and she stifled a yawn. Gismos chuckled and gestured toward the stairway. "On that note, we should call it a night," he suggested. "It's late, and we should get an early start so we can get there before Tarae's spies are out and about."

With a nod, he led us up to the second level and down a narrow corridor. The walls were adorned with various forms of artwork. There were paintings, pictures, and wood signs. At the end of the hallway stood a sturdy wooden door. Its polished surface reflected the soft glow of the moonlight seeping through a nearby window. Gismos pushed it open, revealing a room that had a magical aura.

Inside, the air crackled with the latent energy of Gismos's ancient magic. It swirled and danced around us like wisps of smoke. A smallish bed stood against one wall. Its frame was carved from dark wood and draped with silken sheets that were embroidered with intricate patterns of stars and moons.

"I hope you don't mind sharing the room. With Kitris and Otia here, I don't have enough space to give you each your own. And it'll take too much energy to make new ones," Gismos said as he waved his hand.

He was releasing some of his power. It traveled out and spread like fog, touching all four walls. Everything around us grew before our eyes. The air rippled along with the walls and floors as they expanded. The bed was next, and it grew to a size that would comfortably fit the three of us.

"Holy crap," I muttered in awe of the power he used so easily. "You're one powerful demigod."

Violet chuckled softly, her eyes sparkling with mischief as she ran her fingers along the edge of the bed frame. "Fiona is right," she agreed. "Artemis did something similar to her house the other day."

Gismos's cheeks pinkened. "This is a skill most demigods have," he admitted, his gaze lingering on the shimmering walls. "But thank you for the compliment." I filed that away for consideration later.

We talked for a few seconds longer about where the bathroom was and how to get food or water if we needed it before the others took their leave. "I am so tired I might collapse right here," Aislinn muttered.

Violet plucked her shirt. "Should we sleep in our clothes? Or our underwear? "

"Clothes," I replied. "We might need to react quickly, and I don't want to be caught half-naked."

"It's a good thing you guys can cast that cleaning spell," Aislinn quipped as we all got ready for bed.

Violet and I cast spells to magically brush our teeth. In the bathroom, we washed our faces using the best-smelling soap. Once done, we settled into the bed. It didn't take long for Aislinn and Violet to drift off to sleep. I wasn't so lucky. I closed my eyes and counted sheep. Nothing happened.

The silence seemed to press down on me like a heavy weight as I lay there, trying in vain to get some rest. It was suffocating and oppressive. Sleep eluded me despite the exhaustion that weighed on my limbs and my continued efforts to relax. It danced just out of reach like a tantalizing mirage.

I tried for what felt like hours. With a frustrated sigh, I pushed myself upright. The sheets were tangled around my legs like shackles. The past few days' events swirled through my mind like a tempest. And each memory was a sharp thorn pricking at my already frayed nerves.

Violet's death and subsequent regeneration still haunted me. I'd been able to focus more on the conversation and company but now I didn't have those distractions. The image of her bloody body was etched into my mind like a grotesque tableau. It wasn't the first time I'd witnessed her resurrection, but each time felt like a fresh wound reopening, raw and painful.

I toyed with the idea of going back downstairs and seeking solace in some baked goods but ultimately dismissed it. I didn't know if there were such things in the house. And I didn't want to wander around Gismos's house by myself. It felt wrong to wander around his private space.

But I needed something to occupy my mind, or I might wake Violet and Aislinn up, and they needed their sleep. Wanting to talk to Bas, I reached for my cell phone. It was my lifeline to my world in this strange and unfamiliar realm. With trembling fingers, I unlocked the screen, hoping against hope for a signal.

The top right of the screen remained stubbornly blank, devoid of any bars indicating a signal. Needing to see Bas, I pulled up my pictures and flipped through them. That didn't help my mind settle, so I tossed the phone aside. What the hell was wrong with me? I had to forget about what had happened to Violet. Reliving it was only compounding the stress of our current case.

Needing to think better, my mind wandered back to the life I'd left behind. Everything about it had changed when Grams died two years ago. I'd gone from a widowed nurse in a hospital in North Carolina to a powerful witch in another country. My two best friends had helped me unblock my magic and discover my heritage. Now I was a demigoddess-witch hybrid working for an actual Goddess.

It had been a dizzying journey. One that had reshaped me in ways I couldn't even begin to fathom. And through it all, there was Bas. The love of my life who was a constant beacon of light in the darkness. Then there was the bond that had formed between myself and my two closest friends, Aislinn and Violet. They had become more than just companions on this tumultuous journey. They were like the sisters I'd never had. Their unwavering support and camaraderie were a source of strength in the face of all the crap we faced.

It had woven us together into a tight-knit trio. We were bound by a bond that transcended time and space. It soothed me as I lay there in the darkness, enabling me to finally drift off to sleep.