Chapter 11

ELEVEN

Eleventh Eve of the Oak Moon

In the human year1903

To my dearest Finnian,

There is much to tell you, but I must start at the beginning. If you do not already know, you come from a powerful line of seers. Before exile, I had recurring visions of Faerie’s destruction at the hands of the Light King. As it is dangerous for seers to reveal their gifts, I took matters into my own hands in order to prevent my vision from coming to fruition. Though it broke my heart when Queen Aine banished us, at least I knew Faerie would remain unharmed by the Light King.

Or so I thought.

Shortly after entering this realm, the vision returned and has come to me multiple times over the centuries. Faerie destroyed, her people executed or enslaved, and all at the hands of the Light King. Not even Cormac’s death changed the outcome. I thought all was lost, that our homeland’s demise was inevitable. But then a new vision came to me, and now hope springs within me once more.

If you are reading this letter, it means the night when Luna casts her shadow without Rhiannon’s consent has finally come to pass. It is the night when destinies collide and where the path to your fate begins. For it is only you, my brave Finnian, who can harness the magic that saves our fair world.

I know this is a weighty burden to bear, but you are not meant to carry it home alone. To break the bonds that trap the night, you must spill the blood of the One True Power, for she is the key. Remember, the path to victory is not in combatting the darkness but in melding it with the brightest of flames. Only then will you be able to vanquish the oppressive light. It will be difficult, but where I failed, I believe that you, third son of my son and future king of kings, will succeed.

I wish I had the years with you as I did your brothers, but please believe that I already know and love you. And though we did not share time in this earthly realm, on the day you return home to Mag Mell, I will be there to welcome you with open arms and a grateful heart.

With all that I was, am, or ever shall be,

Your grandmother, Moira

Dark Queen of the Faerie Night Court