The Sorceress and the Tapestry

By Isaac Recinos Navas

Amethyst’s journey to save her mother continues. However, forbidden to leave the castle, Amethyst and Lilith must conjure up an escape plan. Aurora, Nira, and Florence agree to help and maintain the castle, as the two try to escape and head eastward. While on their voyage, they encounter a ghoulish ghost ship, and an island full of strange creatures that want to devour them. Along with new allies and enemies, Amethyst and Lilith explore an unfamiliar world of danger and secrets.

Join this new adventure and learn new, big secrets about Amethyst’s colorful and thrilling life.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Publishdrive
• Release date: Nov 30, 2019

Book preview

Beast

Prologue

A ship sailed on the ocean in the distance, the sound of giant wings reverberating above. Lightning flashed, and a flying creature was seen in the clouds. The vessel was fleeing from the beast, racing for safety, but it was caught in a storm. The waves became violent, and the boat was slammed by them.

"Se opp!" a man shouted lookout as a giant wave collided into the boat.

One of the men held onto the wheel as the entity flew above them. The captain ordered his men to prepare to attack, and they grabbed their bows and stared at the dark sky. Arrows aimed at the clouds; lightning struck as they waited to see the creature. Another flash of light illuminated the area, and they spotted the silhouette of the beast. The captain gave the order, and they all fired.

While the men battled with the flying monster, a young man ran below deck. From a wall, he pulled a blade, then turned around and stared at a large square object covered by a brown sheet. The four corners were tied down to the posts, so the man cut the cloth to expose the cage. Inside lay a child covered with a red and yellow blanket. There was no movement, and the young man shouted to get up. With the child unresponsive, the man’s trembling hands unlatched the gate. His eyes were fixated on the colored blanket as he breathed nervously. He slowly walked inside with the blade in the air and shouted.

You are the cause of the monster to come after us, so get up and stop it!

A wave rammed into the ship, and the young man held onto the cage’s bars as water rushed inside. He gripped tightly, but the force was powerful that he fell and dropped the blade. As the wave washed over him, his eyes caught sight of the child who stood upright. The wet blanket slowly lowered to reveal a boy with black patterns on his face. His razor teeth exposed as the boy grinned. The man searched for the blade, but the child dove on top of him and began to slice his flesh. The screams of the man were not heard, for the storm blocked the sound.

Outside, the sailors continued their fight with the flying creature. They shot their arrows and heard laughter as four red glowing eyes pierced through the dark clouds. A strange word was overheard as a light shone from the shadows and struck the boat, igniting the wood as the men fought to extinguish it. They poured water, but it only caused the blaze to rise higher. The captain saw that it was no use, so he ordered his men to abandon the vessel as another fireball was tossed at them. All the men jumped into the raging waves as the ship burned.

The captain emerged from the ocean and floated to find any of his men. He saw the silhouette of a person coming from below the water and surfaced nearby. The captain called out to the person, and lightning struck up above them.

The captain’s eyes widened in horror and shouted. "Du!"

The child stared into the captain’s face and grinned as he slowly swam towards him. Lowering his head, the boy was about to attack when the flying creature’s shadow was cast over them. The boy looked up and spoke a strange language as he submerged himself and vanished. Laughter from the winged creature echoed, and the captain glanced up at the sky. He saw two snouts piercing through the clouds, and it frightened him, for he thought there were two flying creatures. Both mouths opened slightly, and a glow came from within so intense was the heat the captain felt it. Paralyzed with fear, the captain floated, helpless in the sea. As both creatures were about to attack, their mouths closed and retreated into the black clouds. Another flash of lightning appeared, and only one animal was seen. It stared into the distance, and the captain made out a smile on the beast as it spoke in its language.

Ah, so it appears they are here. A pity that I will end both their life very soon. The creature lowered its head, and its glowing red eyes scanned the ocean. Smoke curled from its nostrils as it laughed. It seems that you managed to escape from me, prince, but no matter. I will find you, and your realm will see the death of your kind. As for now, I shall deal with these two and end our contract.

Another lightning bolt struck, and the flying creature was gone. The captain was relieved, and he began to call out for his men, but no one besides him survived. He was all alone in the ocean. The ship sailed away as the storm extinguished the flames. The captain searched around for something to hold onto, and a large piece of timber floated nearby. He swam over and lifted himself onto it. As the storm passed, he spoke a prayer, and eventually, he saw land. A smile overcame as he sat on the wood.

Chapter One

Almost four months had passed since Lord Dragon’s attack on the castle. The gates were being reinforced, and the walls had new guard towers that wrapped around the structure. A moat had also been ordered, and it would have the addition of spikes sticking out of the ground. Amethyst sat on the windowsill, staring at the construction with the cool breeze caressing her face. It was a warm morning, and her hair was a light red. While she sat there gazing at the remodeling, she spotted a kitten sprinting across the garden.

It chased a mouse as it squeaked. The kitten managed to grab the mouse, and it tossed it in the air. The kitten quickly caught it and noticed Amethyst on the windowsill, so it released the mouse and ran towards her, climbing up the vines that crept towards the window. Focused on what Lilith had told her, Amethyst almost did not notice a meow and the kitten rubbing its head on her arm. She moved her hand to pet the kitten and sighed as she spoke out loud.

The whole story of Lilith helping Lord Dragon in the forest is odd. Is that the reason she left the Imp because he made her change her mind? Amethyst sighed and moved her eyes to the mountains. I don’t know if I should believe her story. Maybe Aurora is right, but Lilith is a good friend.

Amethyst sighed again. She wanted to leave, but King Conrad would not allow it. She was only permitted outside the castle for schooling and nothing more. The King felt that his daughter’s lives were still in danger, so when they went to the institute, an army would escort them. While Amethyst petted the kitten, her mother entered.

Ah, there you are, she said in a cheerful tone. I have been looking for you. What are you doing up here alone?

Looking at the mountains.

What is wrong? Melanie walked over to her.

I’m wondering when I’ll be able to visit Nira. Amethyst sighed and waved her hand in front of her to form an ice ball.

I know the attack was something that made Conrad a bit paranoid, but he has good intentions. Melanie began to brush Amethyst’s hair. However, there is something else that is disturbing you. You have been a bit distant lately.

Fear came over Amethyst as her eyes glanced at her mother’s belly. I’m fine.

Melanie squeezed Amethyst’s shoulder. Are you sure?

Yes. The journey wasn’t that awful. Although, there was something— Amethyst stopped herself and shook her head. Never mind.

What did you find? She leaned closer to her face.

Amethyst was not sure whether to tell her mother about the woman with the fox mask and what she had said. Amethyst sat quietly as her mother took up space beside her.

I know what you went through must have changed your view of the world, but it must not affect you. Not everyone is out to get you and—

Excuse me, My Lady, interrupted a servant as she entered the room. The king requests to speak with you. He is in the garden.

Thank you. I will be there shortly.

He informed me that it is very urgent.

Very well. Amethyst, we will continue our talk later.

She nodded and gave her mother a hug. Turning back to the kitten, she noticed it wore a hat and red tie as the kitten’s eyes stared at her.

Why are you wearing…Lilith, is that you?

The kitten smiled at her and started to laugh uncontrollably. It laughed so hard that its body popped like a balloon. Confetti floated in the air, which Amethyst was not amused.

Lilith, stop playing games.

She searched the room to see where she had gone. Heading to her closet, she put on her shoes.

Lilith giggled that it echoed. I’m sorry. It’s just that it took you a while to figure it out.

Lilith appeared in her human form in front of Amethyst with a broad grin. Amethyst was about to grab her, but she disappeared and reappeared on the windowsill. Lilith began to act like a cat and stretched on the ledge. Amethyst was not in the mood for jokes, so she glanced away.

Geez, I’m sorry. What’s gotten into you anyway?

It’s just that— Amethyst sighed and shifted her sight to Lilith. I need a way to head east to save my mother.

Don’t tell me you still believe what Dragon told you. He only came here to steal that rug.

I know, but what if this Sorceress can help? I…I don’t want to lose Mama.

Lilith hopped off the windowsill and came closer to her. Listen, I told you these people just want to cause trouble. You saw how Eris only wanted that thing from the fruit and…ugh, I can’t believe it. How did she find out? I was so careful.

What do you mean?

Huh? Nothing. Hey… She ran back to the window. If you want to head east, why don’t you just jump out and ski away?

I can’t. I promised Mama I won’t do anything like that. And the king has forbidden me from using my powers.

Wow, now you know why I don’t like living with normal humans. All they want to do is control you.

That’s not true. The adults care about our safety. Also, you seem to love the institute, and everyone thinks you’re amazing.

"Yeah, I am pretty amazing. She grinned. So, how are you going to save your mom if you won’t disobey them?"

I don’t know.

Amethyst slid on her shoes, then glimpsed at her reflection in the mirror. Her journey on finding the fruit changed her view on herself. Able to use her power on command had made her a more powerful magical being. Amethyst ignited her hand, and the flame completely covered it. The fire produced many colors as she rotated her wrist. Lilith stared at the flame, then asked how she felt about her abilities to control her powers. Amethyst looked at Lilith in the mirror’s reflection and noticed that they were about the same height. She stood there a few seconds, then a smile came over her.

What are you so happy about? Lilith asked.

Amethyst turned to her. I’ve got a plan. Can you go to my village and bring Nira? She’s my friend.

What are you planning? Lilith narrowed her eyes as she smiled.

I need her to help me with something.

Like what?

Just go get her—please—and I’ll explain everything.

Lilith crossed her arms. First, tell me, then I might go along.

Amethyst sighed and shook her head. You can be so stubborn at times.

Same goes with you. Lilith punched Amethyst on the arm.

Fine. She rubbed her arm. Nira’s going to take my place so you and I can head east.

I don’t know about that. Lilith stared out the window as a bird flew by. Heading east isn’t going to be easy. It’s not like heading to the mountains. Also, it’s more dangerous.

I thought you enjoyed danger and causing mayhem.

I do, Lilith did not turn around as she hid her concern about the plan. but I want to make sure you won’t be scared.

Lilith, I face things that would scare anyone. Amethyst headed to the window and watched the guards milling about. I need to see the Sorceress and save Mama.

But what happens if it’s just a trick? Lilith removed her hat and spun it in her hand. Eris said the same thing and lied to you, and this might be the same.

It could be, but Lord Dragon seemed concern about Mama.

What makes you think he cares about her? Does he know anything about you or your mom?

Please, I beg you. Amethyst dropped to knees.

Oh, don’t do that. It makes you seem weak. Lilith lifted her up. Sure, I’ll do it. But how’s your friend going to take your place?

I’ll tell you everything once you bring Nira. She held her hand with a smile

Nodding, Lilith turned into a bird then flew towards the village. Amethyst dashed to her closet and was about to start packing when Lilith flew back in and chirped.

Amethyst turned her head and frowned. I don’t speak bird.

Testing you, she laughed. Anyway, you never told me where you used to live.

Just head towards the river and follow it until you see a row of trees. You should see a road there that goes to the village.

Right, then I’m off. Oh, one more thing, what does Nira look like?

She has long, light brown hair, and she should be wearing a white apron with a blue star on it.

Blue star. Okay.

Once Lilith was gone, Amethyst started to pack up some clothing, for she did not know how long the journey would take. Just then, Aurora entered and viewed Amethyst tying to stuff a suitcase.

Amethyst, what are you doing?

Oh, hey Aurora, she nervously answered. I was just…um…cleaning out my closet because some of these dresses are old. Also, since I’m a princess, I should—

No, you are up to something, and where is Lilith? Aurora was suspicious as her eyes moved from the case to her then around the room.

What? She grinned. I’m not doing anything. I’m just throwing away some old clothes.

Aurora walked towards her and stared into Amethyst’s hazel eyes. She knew that Amethyst was not a good liar. Amethyst smiled at Aurora and slowly backed further into the closet to continue grabbing the clothing.

Also, I haven’t seen Lilith.

No, Aurora insisted. I know you are plotting something. I can see it in your eyes.

Amethyst faked a laugh. Good one, but seriously, I’m not doing anything.

You better not. You promised both our parents you would behave. I would hate it if you were lying to me. Aurora grabbed her by the hands. We are sisters, and we should trust each other.

You can trust me. She said it without looking directly into Aurora’s eyes.

I hope so. She released Amethyst. Finding out our mother is pregnant with our baby brother is a surprise to me. Not being able to tell anyone about it is killing me.

I know, but we can’t; it might cause a lot of problems for us.

Right. Well, do not do anything foolish.

Aurora left and closed the door behind her. Amethyst sighed with relief and continued packing. Once finished, she returned to the window. There was no sign of Lilith, so Amethyst sat down on her bed and thought about how she was going to head east—how she would find the Sorceress. While waiting, she heard someone shouting from outside, so she went back to the window and saw an owl carrying Nira be the back of her dress. Nira had her eyes covered with her hands and shouted to be released.

Hey, red, I’m back—and I got your friend! The owl screeched.

The owl flew inside with Nira and dropped her on the floor. Lilith transformed back into her human form and stared at Amethyst with a wide smile. Amethyst shook her head and gazed at her friend, who was trembling.

Nira, are you okay? Amethyst walked to her.

Ameth, is that you? Nira peeked from her hands. What in the world just happened?

Sorry about that, but I told Lilith to bring you here.

You could’ve just come to visit me. You didn’t have to send your crazy bird to grab me. She looked at Lilith. "Where did it go, and who is she?"

I’m sorry about that. She hugged Nira. Lilith, what did you do?

Nothing. Lilith placed her hands on her chest and shrugged her shoulders. She was walking with a basket on her head, and I saw the blue star on the apron and flew towards her. Then I grabbed her and flew back here.

What? Amethyst lifted her head. Why didn’t you introduce yourself?

Lilith shrugged again and sat on the bed. Amethyst glared at her and shook her head.

Ameth, what’s going on? Who’s this girl, and how is it that she can change?

Hey, why does she call you Ameth? Lilith asked.

It’s a nickname.

It doesn’t suit you, maybe red or blue due to your hair, and it sounds better.

Okay, can we focus here? I need—

I knew it! a voice shouted from behind Amethyst.

She turned around, and there stood Aurora in the doorway. She walked in and stared at Amethyst with a disappointed face.

You made a promise to our parents, and I just said that we should trust each other.

Yeah, about that—

I am sorry, but whatever crazy scheme you are up to, you must stop.

Hey, Goldie. Lilith jumped in front of her.

That is not my name. You must address me as Princess Aurora.

That’s not going to happen, Goldie.

Aurora pushed Lilith away. Now, what are you planning here?

I just have company coming. Amethyst walked off. That’s all nothing suspicious happening here.

No, tell me the truth, Aurora stomped her foot. or I am going to tell Mother.

Wow, she got you on a short leash. Lilith smiled.

Nira just stood there looking at everyone with a puzzled expression.

All right, all right! Amethyst relented. I’ll tell you, but close the door.

Aurora did as she was asked, standing by the door for as she waited for her explanation. Amethyst rubbed the back of her neck and stared at Lilith, who was digging in her ear with her finger. Amethyst made a disgusted face, then took a deep breath and stared at Aurora.

The thing is, our mother wasn’t saved. She’s still going to die when the baby is born. The woman with the fox mask told me this, and Lord Dragon told me to head east to find a Sorceress who will be able to save Mama. However, our king…I mean our father won’t let me go anywhere without an escort and—

How can you trust Lord Dragon? Aurora asked. He attacked us and stole the famous tapestry. And, that woman killed Eric.

Yeah, but if there’s any way to—

Um, excuse me, but what’s happening here? And what are you all talking about?

All three girls looked at Nira, remembering no one knew about the attack on the castle. It was a secret everyone kept as the king ordered it.

Amethyst, why is she is here? Aurora pointed to Nira. She is going to tell everyone about the secret.

No, I won’t say a word, My Lady. Nira curtsied to her.

You see, she won’t say a thing. Amethyst padded her on the shoulder. Nira, what you’re going to hear is a secret, and you mustn’t tell anyone.

Nira nodded and made a gesture with her fingers as if she was sealing her lips.

Anyway, I’m going east with Lilith, and Nira’s going to take my place.

Great plan, Red. Lilith stared at her than at Nira. But you got a problem. First, she had brown hair, which doesn’t change colors. Second, she doesn’t look a thing like you.

I know that, but maybe the two pieces of the fruit can change her.

But what about me? Nira pointed to herself. My father’s going to ask where I went, and I can’t tell him that I’m going to live in the castle for who knows how long.

Lilith can make a copy of you to take your place.

Amethyst, this plan sounds silly, Aurora held her head and shook it. Why not just go by yourself and let Lilith take your place?

I need her to come with me. She grabbed Lilith’s hand.

Why? Are you not able to do it on your own? And what about that bird? He can take you there and back.

You mean Nova? I haven’t seen him in a while. I call to him, but he never shows up. I think Eris isn’t letting him see me anymore. Amethyst glanced at the mountains. And going alone is not a good idea. I’m not sure what I’ll be fighting against, and Lilith coming with me is safer.

Guess that’ll be the only way to do it, so I’ll help, Nira said with a smile.

Thanks. She grinned at Nira, then looked at Aurora. Are you going to agree with the plan?

Aurora tapped her finger on her arm and shook her head. I know I am going to regret this, but to save our mother, I will agree.

Oh, thank you. Amethyst hugged her.

Okay, enough with the politeness, Lilith chimed in. Come on and make the wish, Lilith said.

Amethyst nodded and picked up the sapphire fruit from her nightstand. With only two pieces left, it appeared like cherries. She closed her eyes and ate the second portion, then Nira began to transform into Amethyst. As she stood there, everyone was impressed that she was an exact copy.

Wow, look at you, Lilith spoke as she examined her from head to toe. She looks just like you.

The wish worked, Aurora gawked at her.

Nira walked to the mirror and saw that she looked identical to Amethyst, but when she spoke, her voice sounded like her own.

I don’t think this will work; my voice sounds the same.

I have one more wish, but I want to save it in case of emergency. Lilith, can you fix her voice?

I will give it my best shot.

Lilith whispered a few words and cast a spell on Nira. She felt a strange tingle in her throat, which made her cough.

So, did it work? Aurora asked.

I don’t know, Nira spoke, which her voice sounded like Amethyst. "Oh my, it did work! I sound just like you."

Of course, it worked. I’m the best magician around here. Lilith grinned.

Please, Magic Girl. You can stop praising yourself. All you did was change her voice, and who knows if it will last. Aurora walked about Nira.

Hey, I—

Would you two stop it! Amethyst shouted. Lilith, I still need you to make a copy of Nira.

Sure, Lilith rubbed her chin than slapped Nira on the back. but there’s a problem. She is now you, so I can’t do it.

Oh no, then what are we to do? Amethyst hit her head with her hand. Is there no way?

Mm… Lilith closed her eyes and nodded her head. Well, if I’ve got a strain of hair, I could do a spell for it.

Nira snapped her fingers and yelled. Why not go to my house and get a piece of my hair from my brush?

That’ll work, Lilith smirked.

Good, so Lilith and I will go make the copy. Aroura, make sure to help Nira out with everything around here.

Of course, but Amethyst, what about Lilith? Mother will be asking about her.

Just tell her I’m that cat walking around or the dog running outside.

I do not want to trick her into thinking that it is you. She will send the guards after the poor creature.

Well, you’d better think of something. Anyways Amethyst, we should be heading out. The sooner we go, the sooner we can come back.

Right.

You two take care of each other, Aurora said.

Sure, Goldie.

Aurora shook her head and hugged Amethyst. Nira also hugged her, but before they left, Amethyst took off her necklace, armband, and the ring, and gave them to Nira. She also took the fruit with her, then grabbed her suitcase and was about to leave when Lilith shouted to her.

Hey, where are you going?

Downstairs.

Why go sneaking around when I can do this?

A portal opened, and Amethyst saw the village. It still looked the same as the day she and her mother left for the castle. The two farms were outside with the six buildings encircling the center of the market. The area was not as busy as the harvest was not ready. A few of the children ran around the dirty streets chasing each other with wooden swords or sticks. Amethyst smiled, but it faded, for everyone had no knowledge about the attack on the castle. Lilith tugged her on the arm and crossed the portal. Amethyst quickly turned around to wave goodbye as it closed in front of her.

Fear came over Amethyst, but there was no turning back. They headed to Nira’s home, but with the guards patrolling the town, it would be difficult. Lilith got an idea and covered Amethyst with a scarf. She grinned at her brilliance as Amethyst smirked and followed her. The air smelled of wet dirt and hot metals as they got closer to blacksmith’s workshop. They stopped at the top of a hill and looked down below to see a small building. The chimney was