The Prophecy

By S.P. Cervantes

The Prophecy Synopsis:
Ava Fox has spent the past year acclimating to her new life as a wizard of Shadow Hill. Over the past year, her connection with Dalton has only grown stronger. They share a bond she has never known and can't explain.

The danger is still there, even after the Sabatino coven was defeated, and Ava's future is anything but sure. Her powerful relationship with Dalton continues to make others wonder about the Prophecy, and their place in it. Time and again Ava's loyalty and strength will be put to the test as she fights for those she loves. There are many more secrets of Shadow Hill that will be revealed in The Prophecy.

• Language: English
• Publisher: S.P. Cervantes
• Release date: Aug 29, 2016
• ISBN: 9781536541434

Book preview

Homecoming

Iwalked up to my familiar red door in Bricktown filled with overwhelming peace. So much has changed this year. Just last June my life as a wizard began, altering my future completely. I have spent this past year learning about myself and understanding that the magic has always been in me, I just didn’t know it. I now loved being a wizard and learning about the many abilities Hannah and I withheld. Most wizards had one special power, like telepathy or enchantment. The Chosen Ones, like Dalton and Aiden, were more powerful because they had multiple abilities. But Hannah and I have come to learn that we have more abilities than any other wizard. Ian, a knowledgeable wizard from Shadow Hill, has discovered it was easier to track abilities we did not have since there were so few.

My twin sister, Hannah, and Mom were right by my side when I twisted the knob to our modest home. I was instantly transported back to my old life when I walked into my living room which looked exactly as it did when we rushed to Ireland last year. My favorite shell filled crystal lamp was still on the floor in pieces. It was a painful reminder from the struggle that took place here that fateful night when the Sabatino coven kidnapped Mom and Patrick. I shivered remembering how close they had come to destroying my family and my coven.

We all had planned on coming back to New Jersey after the battle last year. Our plans were derailed when we learned that word had spread about the show of power by Hannah and me at the battle against the Sabatinos. Connor needed to be sure that we would be safe before allowing us out of Shadow Hill. Wizards like Hannah and I only come along every few centuries we were told…we were a valued prize to anyone looking for power, and there are many who would stop at nothing to have it.

After the battle was over last year, a new treaty was agreed upon by the remaining covens giving hope for peace in our future. The new treaty was the final step we had hoped for to insure peace after the Sabatino coven was defeated. The Cahul coven was the one strong hold during the treaty negotiations because of our acquisition of Patrick. His decision to remain with Shadow Hill, even after he knew the possibility of being with me had been destroyed, was shocking and insulting to them. I was relieved at the idea that Patrick would be sharing in my magical life in the role I felt he was always meant to be, my friend. Patrick and I have always had an unexplained connection to each other. I had  thought it was love, but now knew it was something much different, but equally as powerful.

There had been many discussions and disagreements when forming the new treaty. Many in Shadow Hill questioned a partnership with all covens, good and evil, again. It was apparent to most that those who practiced black magic would not follow any of the laws agreed upon, and some of our fellow wizards felt that a treaty would not carry any bearing for them anymore. Connor knew better, the last treaty had been what kept relative peace for a hundred years, and it was better to have a set of laws and consequences, rather than anarchy. Magic was too powerful to unleash on the world without consequence. A new treaty was finally agreed upon only six months after the battle with the Sabatinos after all recognized Connor’s logic. All known covens agreed to the new laws for practicing magic…even the remaining members of the Sabatino coven… all except Sergio, who disappeared after the battle with his coven, and hasn’t been heard from since.

Hannah and I were permitted to come back home to New Jersey once Connor had taken the proper steps to secure a safe visit with plenty of Shadow Hill wizards around in case others had plans to try and steal us away once again. There were other wizards, not part of any coven, that were very upset with the way Shadow Hill handled the Sabatinos. At the treaty meeting last year, Gladamir had ordered Shadow Hill to give Hannah and me to the Sabatino coven. Knowing our fate with them would put everyone in danger, we disobeyed his ruling, instigating a battle.

I took a deep cleansing breathe trying to keep my thoughts focused on being back home. The familiar scent of earthy pine shot my thoughts back to Bricktown. Hannah threw herself across the circular brown couch that overwhelmed the small room in her typical dramatic fashion, tossing her bag across the room with ease. Mom and I mimicked her, elated at the comfort of being home together again. Home Sweet Home!

It is hard to believe that we have already been gone over a year with all of the changes in our lives. Our friends in Bricktown all thought that Patrick, Hannah, and I had decided to study abroad instead of going to Seton Hall as we all had planned. Over time they had all accepted that Patrick and I were really broken up for good and had both moved on, remaining close friends. People accepted this relationship as easily as they did our romantic one. We were like family, our lives forever intertwined.

Hannah and I took the year to immerse ourselves in magic at Shadow Hill until we knew the risk was gone outside of our protected city. We grew stronger, mastering spells with ease. I practiced learning new spells and how to control my powers all day, every day. Controlling my magic was the most important part for me. I learned to use earthly elements with ease. Connor and Dalton constantly told me how rare and special it was for a wizard to be able to manipulate their magic the way I do. I could conjure lighting, shoot fire from my fingertips, and devour my prey with a windstorm in seconds. I always silently hoped these types of powers would never have to be used in battle again, but knew that was a useless hope. I understood my life would probably always be at risk in some way. That was the price for power.

My evenings at Shadow Hill were for Dalton. Dalton and I had spent every day since the battle together, never even thinking of being apart. We never had a conversation about the direction of our relationship after the battle. I was Dalton’s and he was mine. I wore the sapphire necklace he gave me that night after the battle last year as a pledge of his undying love and devotion to me.

There was love all around us these days. Aiden and Hannah continued their powerful relationship, and now Contessa, Connor, and Mom and Liam have been bitten by the love bug too. Once my mom had fully recovered from the battle with the Sabatino coven she admitted to us she was now head over heels in love with Liam. I have always loved and respected Liam, and even more so now that I know his distinguished place in the hierarchy of our coven.

For so long it had just been the three of us; Mom, Hannah, and me. Now we have this huge extended family. I learned that Liam had always loved my mom. But he had made a promise to our dad long ago to always protect Mom if anything ever happened to him. Liam knew that the best way to protect us was if he was still a wizard. Mom had stopped using her powers when we moved to New Jersey so that we could remain hidden. No one who was close to us or watching us was allowed to use their powers. If anyone had noticed Shadow Hill members were in New Jersey after Dalton’s parents were killed, they would have surely found us earlier.

Contessa also remained in Shadow Hill after the battle. She and Connor had become close this year as well. She was a very mysterious woman. Her voice was angelic and always put a room to ease, but was contradicted by her questioning eyes. It was as if she was always trying to look through you when she spoke. She kept Connor balanced and happy, able to calm him when he was frustrated with other governing members of Shadow Hill.

Liam, Dalton, and Hannah’s boyfriend, Aiden, were all staying with Contessa while we were in New Jersey, giving us an opportunity to be together in our old house one last time as the small family we once were. Hannah and I had felt terribly homesick while in Ireland, and wanted more than anything to smell the humid sea air that engulfed our town. It felt odd to mix my two lives together having so many wizards roaming Bricktown. Things would be complicated, but I couldn’t worry about that now. I wanted to enjoy my time here in New Jersey before we went back to Ireland.

Okay girls, my mom began easily slipping back into the parental role. It has been a long day. Why don’t you go to room, freshen up, and come out for dinner in an hour? The boys will be here later.

She turned away starting to unpack her purse onto the dining room table making sure not to look me in the eye. I also invited Erin and Patrick for dinner. Now go get some rest.

Mom knew that it was still hard for me to see Patrick with Erin. He now looked at her the same way he had always looked at me. A way I selfishly thought he would never look at another. It felt wrong to feel such jealousy watching him brush her hair out of her face and how he protectively held her in his arms as he had done with me so many times before. I was in love with Dalton, and I had no doubt of that, but it didn’t erase the pain of a lost love.

Ava, I already know your answer, but I have to hear it from you. Patrick took my hands gently in his and I couldn’t help but hesitate for an instant before giving my decisive answer last summer after the battle.

Patrick, I love you and always will. This has been a surreal experience for both of us, and I think what is best is for us to be apart.

I knew not mentioning Dalton was to help the guilt I was feeling. My mind raced to the many nights under the stars on the beach in New Jersey with Patrick talking about life, about our future. Our future would never be the same again, whether we were together or not. We are wizards. Hannah, Patrick, and I had solidified our place in the Shadow Hill coven with our bravery displayed at the battle.

Patrick sighed annoyed and pulled me closer. Ava, you and I both know that if we never came here to Shadow Hill, we’d still be together. My intention of joining Shadow Hill in the first place was solely to keep you safe and away from magic altogether.

Recognizing my miserable expression he stepped away, resolved. I will always love you Ava and I have always told you I would wait for you. But I can’t anymore. It’s not fair to either of us.

I’m sorry Patrick. I really am. I took a step closer urging him to look at me again. Patrick. Patrick please look at me.

He hesitantly answered my plea, "Yes, Ava. You have my attention."

Patrick, this will be the last time I say this then, because you are right, it is not fair. But Patrick, I do and will always love you, but you know as well as I do that what’s between us is something unexplainable…something different than lovers-it’s a love different than family-it’s something that pulls us together and makes us want to protect each other, and I will always do that for you. You were my first love, my first best friend. I want you to find someone who can love you as much as you deserve to be loved. I kissed his cheek.

He starred at me speechless for a moment with strength and resolve in his eyes. You’re right Ava. What’s between us is different than it is with you and Dalton, I can see your connection…everyone can. I just need space from you. I can’t sit by and watch you two together while I erase my love for you from my heart.

Are you going to stay with Shadow Hill? I asked afraid of what he was going to say next.

Patrick answered instantly looking as if I offended him, Of course I am staying with Shadow Hill. I made my choice to fight together even though I knew you were not in love with me anymore. He pulled me closer again. "Ava, we’re family. I have had a long time to come to terms with us, he took a deep breath. But I need time away from you. Time to sort things out. After the treaty is settled, I am going back to New Jersey for a while."

Patrick released me and walked away, not looking back. I haven’t seen him since he left six months ago.

Back to the Start

Aiden and I arrived back to Contessa’s house ready with a handful of groceries from the local Shop Rite. Candy and bags of popcorn poured everywhere as I set everything down on the cool granite counter top. I was glad Connor had decided to allow us all to leave Shadow Hill and venture to New Jersey for this short trip. Contessa was pivitol in helping persuade Connor to let the girls return to their home. Contessa and Connor have become virtually inseparable since the battle with the Sabatinos. It seemed as if our brush with death last summer had put a lot of relationships in perspective. Life could be short, even for a wizard, and why would we want to spend it alone?

Contessa let out a relaxed laugh as she surveyed our shopping bags. Popcorn, M&M’s, and soda? What kind of a dinner do you think we are attending? She shook her head as she kissed Connor on the cheek walking away not waiting for an answer.

It was an odd combination, but the girls love popcorn and M & M’s…The salty sweet combo…I hoped it would make a fun dessert. It was also a mobile dessert. Aiden and I wanted to get the girls alone after dinner and head over to the water tower. Although it had been a place of terror on our last visit, it was also the place where I met Ava, and was once her favorite place to go and feel relaxed when she was growing up.

Just thinking about Ava made my heart sing. Over the past year, I learned what a strong, determined, and stubborn wizard she is. Her beauty is the first thing that strikes you when you meet Ava. Her long, lean, athletic body compliments her porcelain face that is accented with pale blue eyes that sparkled when she spoke, leaving me breathless. Ava’s personality was also magnetic. She is honest, yet kind….funny, yet respectful. She will be perfect to lead Shadow Hill one day, just like her grandfather Connor.

My thoughts soon moved to picturing Ava during our evening swims alone together after a long day at the academy learning new spells. Ava loved to swim and relax after a long day; all I cared about was being with her. I thought of Ava’s perfect body as it would slip out of her sundress, revealing a bright red bathing suit that I wasn’t sure would qualify as clothing, covering just enough to make me blush every time.

Aiden interrupted my day dream, Dalton, Earth to Dalton, come in Dalton!

I shook my head clear of the memories. Oh sorry Aiden, what is it?

Let’s head over to the Fox house now, they said to come over by 5pm.

I glanced at my watch to see it was 5:15. Crap, all that time I’d spent thinking of Ava could have been spent with her in my arms. I stuffed the spilled groceries back into the bag before I said a word and was heading out the door.

Mind if we join you? Connor asked as he, Aiden, Liam, and Contessa followed me out the door.

It was odd being back in Bricktown. Last time I was here, I thought of it only as a place not fit for a wizard. I was so worried about Ava being taken by the Sabatinos, that I didn’t take the time to admire the beauty that surrounded me. The tall oak and pine trees gave the neighborhood a quaint feeling of hominess. We walked, talking about how different this little town was from ours in Shadow Hill. All of the homes looked differently from the other. Some were grand three story homes held up by large wooden columns giving it a much grander feeling than the town where it sat. Others, like Ava’s, were small one story homes, with wooden shutters adding to the cozy feeling of this small town.

When we rounded the corner to Ava’s street I was brought back again to the first time I laid eyes on her exiting her large red door. My heart seemed to be tugging me more quickly to her house at the memory. Every time I was with Ava, it felt like the first. I still felt the butterflies in my stomach…the need to be touching her, holding her close, never faded. I could never get enough of Ava. She was my drug, and I was addicted.

Just as I got to the door I heard a familiar voice behind me that sent a singe of regret in my heart. Hey strangers! Long time no see, I turned to see Patrick with Erin locked hand in hand.

Erin jumped up giving Connor a big hug. Oh I’ve missed you all!

She joyfully made her way around our group. I had no idea of all the fun things to do here. I mean, it is much different from Shadow Hill, but still fun. Patrick pulled her in more closely now kissing her on the top of her head, eyeing me cautiously.

They had apparently formed a much closer relationship since her trip here with Patrick. I hoped this would take his attention off Ava for once. It always filled me with jealousy the way he had looked at Ava when we were all together, his eyes always following her every move.

Just then Hannah opened the door followed closely behind by a glowing Victoria. I searched for Ava wondering why she wasn’t there to greet us with her mother and sister.

Our family,together again! Hannah cheered as she ushered us in and led everyone through the door with a cheerful welcome.

From around the corner of the house was Ava walking gracefully towards me. As we embraced I felt her warm body pressed against mine sending sinful thoughts once again though my mind. Her sweet smell still intoxicated me, making me seem as though I could lose control at any minute.

Dalton McGregor, three days are too many to be apart. Ava smiled and turned to greet the others.

Ava gave Patrick and Erin a welcoming hug as she led everyone to the magnificent table set for ten. I noticed Patrick never broke his grip on Erin, or took his eyes off of Ava. Things were still going to be complicated I thought.

We all sat at the table taking our places next to our significant others. Just a year ago, we were all single, living separate, very different lives. Now we were all in love, happy, and free from the evil and fear the Sabatino coven hung over us.

I was surprised to see the glorious spread of seafood laid out before us. The dining table was covered in a plastic red and white checkered table cloth filled with large wooden platters overflowing with crab, lobster, clams, mussels, and corn on the cob. It was a very casual look with expensive food. Ava filled my paper plate with samples from every dish, noticing my confusion on where to start. I was glad that she did not abuse her powers to read others’ thoughts all the time. That was the first thing that she wanted to learn to control. I understood Ava’s request because it must be very difficult knowing how everyone feels about you, especially those you love. Ava said she would only use that ability in an emergency, or to talk with Hannah of course.

After we all gorged ourselves with enough seafood to last a month, we went back into the small living room and talked about the plans for the rest of the week…a week away from magic was a welcomed vacation after the intensive year of study we have all had. I was glad to have the day tomorrow to explore Ava’s beloved town. Ava loved Bricktown so much; I knew she had a hard time thinking about having to move away permanently. We all promised we would come back for summers and some holidays every now and then, but life was just so different for her now.

We all sat around the dinner table catching up with Erin and Patrick’s adventures in New Jersey, laughing easily and becoming acquainted again like the family we were. No one spoke of Shadow Hill or of the dangers that can be lurking around every corner. It was one of the most ordinary nights of my life, and I began to think this trip could be the best thing for all of us.

Ava leaned her head on my shoulder, setting my body alive at her touch. The alluring scent of strawberries overtook my senses. I took her hand in mine, squeezing tightly letting her know the effect she had on me. My thought instantly turned to taking our leave and being alone with Ava at the water tower, away from the prying eyes and ears of Connor and Victoria. Seemingly reading my mind, Erin and Patrick stood up and began their good-byes.

I got up too, giving Aiden a nod signaling that this was our opportunity to make an exit as well. Victoria, thank you for a wonderful dinner. If it is all right with you, Aiden and I were going to take the girls for a walk?

Victoria agreed knowing this would give her a chance to relax with Liam. Ava and Hannah had dutifully cleared the table and cleaned the dishes and were ready to go as well. Contessa and Connor decided to call it a night as well and followed us out heading back to her house.

I turned to Connor in a playful tone, Don’t wait up.

I smiled knowing Connor knew I said this just to get under his skin. He just turned away with an annoyed look that somehow gave me pleasure to see. Connor’s always stoic and controlled demeanor was veiled by the happiness he was feeling tonight being with all those he loved. He seemed so much more human when he could relax and enjoy some fun with his family…a family he had been separated from for years.

I put my arm around Ava’s shoulder, pulling her close. Pleasure shot through my body like a freight train as it always did with her touch. She looked up and gave me her full dimpled smile that drives me crazy. I didn’t know what I ever did to deserve a woman like her, but I thanked God every day for this gift and vowed to do everything in my power to make sure we would never be apart.

As we walked together on this muggy summer night, thoughts of our future together were littered with memories from our battles last year. It had been such a stressful and tumultuous time for us, but for Ava especially. Ava and Hannah’s lives were in such peril, along with all those they loved only a year ago.

We walked quietly taking in the peaceful night. It almost felt like we could hear the faint twinkling of the stars above accompanied by the soft rustling of the leaves in the trees. It was now near the end of August and summer was in full bloom with fireflies speckling the landscape. I could hear the faint music in the distance coming from the ice-cream man who wandered the streets offering refreshing Italian ice or popsicles to bring relief to the sticky heat. I understood the allure of New Jersey even more having Ava by my side. As I walked with her I imagined our children running inside to ask for a dollar to buy their favorite treats. I couldn’t wait to start my family with Ava, to start our lives truly together as one forever. Our future together was so clear… full of love and happiness. I kissed Ava’s hand knowing I would do everything in my power to give her the life she had always dreamed of… a long and magical life together.

Something Old, Something New

We walked the familiar path to the water tower hand in hand watching Aiden and Hannah play around up ahead of us in their usual flirtatious way. They truly were the perfect fit. I was filled with mixed emotions remembering my history in this little tight knit town. I thought of all the fun times with my friends at the water tower, doing things together that only teenagers would find amusing, like seeing who could climb the twenty foot fence the fastest while others would pelt them with cans or anything we could get our hands on.

Aiden and Hannah walked hand in hand talking the entire way. Dalton and I were always content with just listening to their fun stories and tales. Aiden pointed to a tree that was broken completely in half, with its leafless branches strewn across the peat.

A light fog rolled in, making this familiar neighborhood seem more menacing than usual. It reminded me of that night when I was first attacked by the water tower. The night my life changed forever.

I snuggled into Dalton’s body, feeling the same fire that started between us that fateful night.

I always felt so safe in every sense of the word with Dalton. Every time he touched me I felt as if my heart was going to explode. The way his eyes would meet mine whenever we were in a room together would pull me instinctively to his side, needing to feel his touch. We now came to expect these physical and mental reactions to each other.

Dalton looked as handsome as ever tonight, wearing his favorite grey t-shirt and black shorts. I loved the casual way his shirt brushed across his muscular chest. His hair was unruly as usual atop his head, making me want to reach up and run my fingers through every strand.

That’s where I took down that Sabatino wizard trying to take Ava last year, Aiden said kicking the broken tree with pride. Threw him right into the tree so hard it split.

I still can’t believe you didn’t tell me about that right away Ava. I remember seeing you and Dalton together on the porch that night after you were attacked. The way he looked at you was both terrifying and alarming. I should have known something serious had happened. Hannah pushed me closer into Dalton, which I didn’t mind.

We easily made our way through the forest, using our abilities to glide through the air rather than walk through the wet leaves and mud from the storm the night before. We quickly approached the tower only to find we were not alone. I was startled at first noticing two figures in the brush. Visions of memories from my struggle at the tower last summer assaulted my mind. I began to tremble with fear hearing a quick scream as the two figures shot up struggling with their clothing. I was instantly in a defensive stance ready to take on whatever was out there.

Oh, hey! Dalton put his arm back around me signaling me to relax. I think I was too in shock