The Blood of Aurya

By J-mi Alexander

The Blood of Aurya is a story entwined within a story for those who choose to seek it out.

“ What if there is truly much more around us than we’re able to perceive with our limited senses? Imagine for a moment that we are surrounded by sights and sounds that we are simply unaware of. What if our very lives were tightly woven within realm upon realm, all living around and amongst the next? Thriving but never touching. Gently encasing the other like a shroud”.

Do we all have a predetermined destiny?
The main characters in this book are bound by providence.
Equipped with some extraordinary gifts, they travel through time and realms of existence to battle the unknown. Against the advice of their mentors, they go to some rather risky lengths to find a better way to face their increasingly overwhelming responsibilities. Their experiment not only thrusts them far into the future but brings forth both beauty and an unrelenting antagonist.
Alliances are forged and loyalties are tested but will that be enough for what lie ahead?

• Language: English
• Publisher: J-mi Alexander
• Release date: Nov 24, 2020

J-mi Alexander

J-mi Alexander is a storyteller, artist, fashion designer/illustrator and entrepreneur. Her broad scope of interests, accomplishments and life experiences are clearly evident in her writing. Her first novel, The Blood of Aurya, has been described as "a brilliant combination of legend, fantasy and science fiction." The author engages her readers in the beauty of mythical creatures, then plummets them into darker worlds. J-mi is able to draw the reader into her world with her ability to paint a vivid picture and build suspense. She has created an inciteful story that encourages readers to delve into their own lives and the world around them.

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The Blood of Aurya

Copyright © 2020 by J-mi Alexander

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other non-commercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Tellwell Talent

www.tellwell.ca

ISBN

978-0-2288-3253-9 (Hardcover)

978-0-2288-3252-2 (Paperback)

978-0-2288-3254-6 (eBook)

Introduction

Myths, legends, and superstitions. Every culture embraces their mystique, and new tales spread like wildfire in this modern world of ever-evolving technology. Some tales have been carried on through the centuries; still others are short lived. And what about those things that go bump in the night, or the darkness that lurks in the shadows? How many times have you felt as though someone was watching you? Have you had a dream that seemed to come true? Coincidence? Perhaps. What if there is truly much more around us than we’re able to perceive with our limited senses? Imagine for a moment that we are surrounded by sights and sounds that we’re simply unaware of. Those little specks of dust that dance in the sunlight and simply mesmerize our family cat. How certain are you that they are nothing more than what they appear to be? What if our very lives were tightly woven within realm upon realm, all living around and amongst the next? Thriving but never touching. Gently encasing the other like a shroud.

This is such an account. Our story begins in a far-off galaxy on a tiny planet called Therus. A distant sister planet to our planet Earth, it embraces a variety of life forms very like our own. They are a society that has grown and flourished over time and shall do so for years to come. They have overcome disasters and celebrated grand achievements.

But things were not always as they are at the present time. No, this tiny planet has seen its share of darkness. It has suffered under oppression and felt the sting of abandonment. Yet on every occasion, a light shone and guided them through the hopelessness and despair.

Chapter 1

This is the story of a girl child born many, many years ago. It’s said that she was the most beautiful child that the townspeople had ever seen. Her hair was raven black, and her eyes sparkled like flawless emeralds in the noon sun. The entire town would attest to the certainty that when the child was born, a pale-glowing green light encompassed her tiny, perfect body. In fact, when her parents first held their precious little girl in their arms, they felt an overwhelming sense of calm as a gentle wave of warmth spread throughout their bodies. They seemed to have no choice but to name her Emerald, or Emma, for short.

As Emma matured, it became evident that as well as being a bright child, she had a gentle, caring nature. Emma was barely seven years old when she took it upon herself to become a companion to an elderly neighbour named Rose, whom she had met at the town marketplace. Emma took great joy in helping the lady display her goods. Each colourful row of produce was lined up to perfection. They seemed to develop a strong bond almost immediately.

No one knew exactly where Rose came from. The rumour was that she just seemed to appear from out of nowhere. She came to town one day with an old horse and two large leather satchels. She soon squatted in the empty house at the bottom of the hill. The townspeople did not mind, as the house had been abandoned long ago. It was old, and the once-cherished home desperately suffered from neglect. Rose took little time in clearing away the years of debris and made the old house a home. She had no guests, and it was said that she had no family of her own. As the story goes, her old horse just wandered off one day. Rose searched everywhere for him, but she couldn’t find him. She knew that the horse wasn’t worth stealing, so she worried that he’d wandered off to the dark forests.

Rose planted a large garden, and soon everyone was astonished at what this seemingly feeble lady grew behind the old house. They had never witnessed such a parade of colours as when Rose made an appearance at market. Every Saturday, she and Emma would carefully fill baskets to the brim and half drag them down the dusty paths to the market square. Emma’s parents had pleaded with their daughter to allow them to help, but she wouldn’t hear of it. So Emma’s father decided to make a contribution of his own. It was truly a labour of love, for he wasn’t remotely a craftsman. He fashioned a crude cart with four large wheels and presented it to Rose. She offered him an array of goods in barter. He only smiled. He respected her sense of pride and accepted her compensation gladly.

Each day progressed the same as the last. Emma would awaken early, complete her chores, and then quietly wander down the road to visit Rose. As the sun began its descent, she would return home to her parents. She said little of her visits, and they did not pry. They were confident that they had raised their daughter well.

Emma truly was an exceptional child, and her mother hated to scold her, but like with any child, sometimes things just got out of hand. She had a menagerie of animal friends that would make their way into the house and cause no end of mayhem. The more Emma fed her little friends, the more they stopped by, and their numbers only grew. Her mother wouldn’t have minded as much had they not been struggling to keep food on the table for themselves. Besides, some would have thought her companions an extravagant family dinner.

It was then that Emma decided to start a garden of her own. Her mother thought it was a splendid idea and offered her help, but Emma insisted that she could do it on her own, and she did. It wasn’t a very large or impressive garden, but she seemed to be remarkable. The plants flourished until not only were there plenty for her family, but for her animal friends as well. And so her parents learned to accept the fact that Emma’s companions would become permanent members of their household.

Emma was unaware of her elderly companion’s failing health, but her parents noticed it. They knew that Rose’s time was short but just couldn’t find a way to tell Emma. She had become so completely attached to her friend that her parents weren’t sure how she’d deal with the loss. Unfortunately, that day came sooner than anyone expected.

I tried, but it didn’t work, she sobbed. I really did try.

Her father looked down at her, and for the very first time saw Emma’s eyes swelled with tears and an overwhelming look of despair.

What, Emma? What was it you tried?

I tried to share my light, but it wasn’t strong enough.

She looked at the ground as her toes fidgeted with the edging on the rug. There wasn’t time to finish my lessons.

Her father had no idea what she was referring to. He put his arms around her and held her close. Without warning, Emma pulled away. He could do nothing but watch as she stormed out the door. His eyes followed her as she ran down the dirt road and faded out of site. Had he done something to upset her? he wondered. He looked towards his wife, trying to disguise the tears that were now forming in his eyes.

Leave her be, said her mother softly. Emma needs some time alone.

She poured two cups of tea and handed one to him. He reached over and took her hand in his and gave it a gentle squeeze. There they stood, looking down the road, helpless to comfort their only child.

By the time Emma reached the old house, there were tears streaming down her face. She opened the door and walked in slowly. Her attention was drawn to the wood table by the window. There sat the remnants of their last tea together. Emma seated herself on a floral covered chair and looked at the faded pictures on the wall. A flood of memories rushed through her mind. She thought of their walks through the fields and of baking fresh fruit tarts. Rose loved them just as much as she did. She glanced towards the kitchen and could almost smell them baking.

I am so sorry, Rose. I really did try … I just wasn’t ready. Can you forgive me? she whimpered.

As tears once again filled her eyes, she stood up abruptly and began to clear the table. She stacked the plates neatly and returned them to the kitchen. The flowers just outside of the window caught her attention. She wandered out through the back door and carefully chose a selection of cheerful spring blooms. She wiped the tears from her eyes as she reached over to replace the dry, faded flowers with the fresh bouquet. It was then that Emma noticed a small folded paper neatly tucked underneath the vase. She reached out and steadied the container with one hand as her other slipped the note from its resting place. She recognized the writing as Rose’s. Had it not been such a trying day, she might have read the note, but her mind was exhausted. She returned to her chair, lost in her memories.

Emma soon drifted off into a sea of confusion. Something was chasing her. She could hear echoing sounds and feel a presence, but she couldn’t see anything. She ran towards a light, but it kept getting farther away. Suddenly, two enormous glowing eyes appeared before her. Then an unexpected knock at the door startled Emma, and she struggled to open her eyes. She could see a figure on the other side of the glass. Her heart was still racing as she slowly approached the door. It was her father. Emma opened the door and wrapped her arms so tightly around him that he was startled for a moment.

Let us go home, little one. Your mother is worried.

Emma looked up at the sun as it faded beyond the horizon, and she realized that she had completely lost track of time. She took her father’s hand as they began descending the narrow wood steps. They were almost at the road when she remembered the note.

Be right back.

She turned around and ran back into the house. After carefully tucking the paper into her pocket, she returned to her father’s side.

Emma said little on the walk home. From time to time, her father would notice her slipping her hand into her pocket, as if to make sure something was still there. The silence made him feel awkward. There was so much he wanted to ask her. For the time being, he was just thankful that Emma was safe.

They entered the house just as silently as they’d been on the walk home. Emma’s mother looked at their tired eyes and embraced them both lovingly. It had been a trying day, and it was time to put it behind them. Emma’s father hugged the two most important people in his life, and then one by one they retired to their rooms, hoping that the evening would bring them a peaceful sleep.

It was the morning after the funeral, and Emma had not slept well. Her night had been filled with unsettling visions. She remembered an enormous wild cat with glowing red eyes. She’d tried to look away, but she couldn’t. It had been as if the creature could see into her very soul. As she’d tried to run, her feet had sunk into the earth, and she hadn’t been able escape. A voice had rung out, You are mine now.

She woke in a cold sweat and with a deep feeling of fear that she’d never before experienced. Emma sat on the edge of her bed and gathered her damp hair over her shoulder. Still trembling from the experience, she arose and collected up the clothes that hung from her desk chair and began to dress. As she did, she caught sight of something falling to the floor. Emma bent down, retrieved it, and carefully unfolded the crisp paper. She walked toward the window in hopes that the morning sun would make reading easier on her drowsy eyes. She read the words aloud:

Dear Emma;

I am sorry that our time together was so short. You brought a light into my life that I had never known. For that reason, I would like you to have my belongings. There is no fortune or hidden jewels, just all of those things I have held dear. I am sorry that we cannot continue our lessons, but I have left you with everything that you will need to carry on. The house is yours now, Emma. It is very special, and only you could appreciate it for all it is. You did all you could, Emma. It was my time. You did not fail me, my little shining light … You could never could.

Love always … Rose

Emma smiled sadly as she folded the note and slipped it back into her pocket. Rose’s words were comforting. Still, Emma couldn’t get past the dreams that were now haunting her.

As the days progressed, Emma’s parents began to see less and less of her. All of her time seemed to be spent over at that old house. Although they were concerned, they found comfort in the fact that she seemed to be getting over the death of her friend. She seemed happy, and her eyes had that unique sparkle back. Emma was the only one who knew about the darkness that her dreams brought. She was the only one aware of the visions that were now haunting her days as well as nights.

Initially Emma was hesitant to go through Rose’s belongings, but gradually became more at ease. Still, she hadn’t dared to travel alone to the one place where they’d spent their most precious moments together. It was time to venture into the cellar. She lit the oil lamp and lifted it by its broken handle. Emma walked to the kitchen and opened the pantry door. She looked down at the soiled rug and then rolled it carefully to the side and gazed at the cumbersome door. Emma had never been down there alone before and was not altogether sure she was ready for this.

I can do this, she whispered. I know that Rose would want me to.

She gathered all of her strength, yanked the wood-slatted barrier upwards, and leaned it securely against the wall. Particles of dust surrounded Emma like a cloud as she cautiously descended into the dark crawl space.

Rose had done all that she could to make the space comfortable, but it was damp and confining. Emma sat on the clay floor and pulled the lamp close to her. She reached for the satchel that sat closest to her and dragged it across the floor until it was directly in front of her. She was surprised to find her name etched into the leather. She felt a cold chill as she reached under the flap. She reached deeper until her hand neared the bottom, where she felt a small box. Emma pulled it out and examined it further. A blue string held the top securely in place. She pulled it off and looked inside. A note sat on top.

Dear Emma …

Wear this always, and I will never be far away …

Love … Rose

Emma looked into the box and picked up a ring. She remembered that Rose had always worn it. It was constructed of worn, tarnished silver with a rather large, unimposing stone in its twisted setting. Emma slipped it into her pocket and then sat quietly for a while. She could almost see Rose sitting across from her. She remembered how Rose would laugh at her childlike antics. She’d been a strict teacher but never had a harsh word for her protégé. Every day at precisely the same time they would begin the lessons. They worked intensely for hours at a time. In her younger years, Emma could be quite restless, but if Rose had taught her anything, it was that success came only with hard work and complete focus.

Enough for today, she whispered to herself.

She checked that the ring was still in her pocket and then placed the strap of the satchel over her shoulder. As she began up the earthen steps, the door slammed shut and the lamp went out. Emma fell backwards onto the damp ground. She sat for a moment in the darkness, not knowing what to think. She so wished that Rose was with her now. She removed the satchel from her shoulder to lessen the burden, slowly climbed the stairs, and then reached upwards for the door. She had barely laid her hand upon it when it flew open. It was as if a gust of wind had caught it and sent it crashing upwards into the pantry wall. Emma grabbed the lamp and wasted no time climbing back out. After covering up any evidence of the hidden room, she ran out to the orchard. The incident had been unsettling, to say the least, so the sunshine would be a welcome sight.

It was a glorious day. The sun was warm, and nature seemed to echo in unison. From the birds that nestled in the trees to the sound of rustling leaves, everything seemed perfect. Emma thought once again about the cellar door, and a sudden chill ran through her body. Without hesitation, she ran through the fields of wildflowers and to her favourite place, the huge rock by the stream. She carefully climbed its chiselled surface until she was at the top. The warmth of the afternoon sun was as comforting as always.

Emma reached into her pocket and retrieved Rose’s ring. She slipped in onto the middle finger of her right hand and looked at the unique setting. She looked once more at the milky stone and held it out into the sun’s rays. As she watched, it seemed to fill with life and take on an extraordinary glitter, as if a thousand fireflies were trapped inside. Emma was at first quite startled, but that soon changed. It made her feel as though Rose was truly with her.

The morning came quickly. Emma’s parents hadn’t heard her come home the night before, but then, they never did. Emma walked into the kitchen, still rubbing the sleep from her eyes. She smiled and gave her father a gentle hug. He looked into those beautiful green eyes and smiled.

Off to Rose’s? He heard the words come from his lips but had no idea why they had. He already knew the answer.

Yes, Father. Emma sat across from him and picked up a china cup.

She smiled. She had insisted that the house always be referred to as Rose’s, so she appreciated the gesture.

So what exactly is it you do in that house all day alone? he asked.

Emma looked at her father and grinned.

I have some fruits and vegetables for market. Do you think you might have some time to help me? she replied, completely avoiding his question.

Of course.

He was pleased to be asked. Emma had become so independent that he felt loneliness in his heart. He was grateful to spend time with her.

Before her parents realized it, Emma was gone once more.

Chapter 2

Some tried, but none could compete with the near perfection off Emma’s crops. Everyone agreed that she was a gifted young lady. Some even attempted to grow their own plants from the seeds of Emma’s perfection. The plants that grew were quite common. The people might have been jealous if she hadn’t been so very kind and generous. It wasn’t unusual for a neighbour to walk out their front door and find a neatly wrapped bundle filled with gifts awaiting them. They always knew it was from Emma, but words were never spoken—just a sweet smile or gentle nod in passing.

Emma’s sixteenth birthday was approaching quickly, and her parents were desperate to find a meaningful way to celebrate and show their child how very much they loved her. Her father looked at his wife with a bit of sadness in his eyes.

We don’t even know our little girl anymore.

He gazed out the window and down the road.

It seems like only yesterday she was having tea with imaginary friends and hiding tiny creatures in her dresser drawers, he said sadly.

His wife looked at him and smiled. He had never realized just how much Emma resembled her mother, with that same smile that always spoke without words, letting you know that everything would be all right. She walked past the table and over to a drawer. After retrieving a bundle of papers, she sat at the table and laid down the pages. She looked adoringly into her husband’s eyes.

I was sixteen once. I know exactly what she needs … a party!

He grinned and then walked out into the fresh morning air.

Women and plans, he mumbled. They always have a plan.

He let out a little chuckle and walked toward the shed. Inside the house, it was not a list or a plan that her mother was writing. No, it was definitely not.

Dear Emma,

I cannot believe how quickly the years have gone. Your father and I are so proud of the person you have become. I think I knew from the moment I first held you. It made me happy and at the same time so very sad. You are not only the light of our lives, but light lives within you. It would sound confusing to someone else, but I am sure that you understand. We have an ancestor named Aliana who lived over a century ago. She was a beautiful lady with a heart of gold. They say that she too had emerald eyes and raven black hair. Few knew much of her beginnings, but all knew she was destined for greatness. Her companion was an elderly lady by the name of Freesia. As the tale goes, when Aliana was not quite sixteen, she met a boy … a beautiful boy … and she abandoned everything for him. Her life became completely wrapped up in her beau. Eventually Freesia simply wandered off in the night. She was last seen walking alone across the flowered meadows, with satchels over both shoulders and a swarm of fireflies around her that lit the evening skies. As for Aliana, she had a beautiful family. She gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, and he in turn became a loving husband and father. Yet through all of this joy, her life was never complete. She had a destiny that she did not fulfill.

So, you see, I had to let your life progress as it was meant to. Destiny is yours, and you are ordained for greatness—I knew from the moment I saw you and Rose together. I knew that it was meant to be. You are now sixteen, and Rose is not here for you, but I am. We will take the journey together.

Love always … Mother

She read and reread her letter. There was a great deal that she had not made known to her daughter. Some say Aliana yearned for a daughter so much so that her heart ached. When she had her son, she was filled with joy, and she waited for the day that her family would be blessed with a baby sister for him. But that was not to be. Her boy grew into a gifted and generous child, but still the emptiness haunted her. Few were aware that a baby girl had blessed Aliana’s household. Unfortunately, she had lived only a few days. Aliana became increasingly reclusive after the funeral, and her heart grew cold. Her husband and son tried to console her, but her darkness only multiplied. Out of desperation, her husband took their son to the city to live. He looked in on his wife from time to time, but she refused to allow him entrance. It was said that one day he found her cold, lifeless body crumpled on the floor of the mausoleum that she had created for herself.

Enough, Emma’s mother whispered.

There were far more important things to be thinking about right now. There was still a party to plan, and everything had to be perfect. There had already been talk about it in the market square. Although they would rather have been planning a wedding for Emma, they were most excited to help her celebrate her sixteenth birthday. She had given so much to each of them, so this was their chance to show their appreciation. Marya, the baker’s wife, had made a very special layer cake and adorned it with some of the tiny lavender flowers that blanketed the planters outside the bakery windows. They were from the very same plants that Emma had gifted her years before. The children were busy dipping candles. They said it was so that she would never be afraid of the dark. Soon, everyone seemed to be involved in the preparations. It was astounding how the town grew even closer over one young girl.

While her mother planned an extravagant party, Emma was preparing for the day as well. She had anxiously been waiting to open a wooden box Rose had shown her. It was etched only with the number 16. Although she had questioned Rose incessantly, Rose never would divulge what lay hidden inside. All she would tell Emma was to trust her heart, and it would guide her. Her heart seemed to be telling her that the time was now—not later, not tomorrow, but right now.

Emma made the solitary journey back down into the crawl space, as she had every day. It was a bit scary but also a bit exciting. She placed the lamp strategically in the middle of the floor and turned the flame up. A box sat nestled amongst some books and scrolls. She watched as the flames cast strange images across the walls. She reached over and gently lifted the box, and then laid it securely on her lap. It was heavier than she’d expected. She ran her hands across the smooth surface until she felt a cool stone beneath her fingers. Emma pulled a torn cloth from her pocket and wiped off the dust. Beneath the debris was yet another stone. It also was milky white and reflected little light. She held her hand out toward the flame and looked at Rose’s ring. It shone like a sparkling rainbow. It truly did appear as if it was dancing with glints of fireflies. She smiled and looked at the wood box. It might be the same stone, but there was no way to tell until she took it out into the sunlight.

Emma opened the lid of the box and reached inside. It was empty except for a small rolled parchment. Why does the box feel so heavy? she wondered. She unrolled the scroll and lifted it toward the light. Emma read the words aloud:

"Three of all and three of each

Till the top is finally reached

Of the earth and of the skies

From watery depths and fireflies

Stars falling up from the earth

And sixteen stones for the rebirth"

Watery depths and fireflies … stars falling up from the earth. It was baffling. She had no idea what it meant. As if by instinct alone, she began to rummage through packages of treasures that had been neatly arranged along the cellar walls. She laid a cloth on the floor and began covering it with an array of odd items. Emma sat back and looked around the small space once more. There was nothing more to do there … not right now, anyway. She gathered everything into the centre of the cloth and tied it with a length of twine. As soon as the box was securely tucked under her arm, she reached for the cloth bundle and oil lamp. She looked at the large wood door with apprehension. Experience had taught her that this room did not give up its treasures easily. She held her breath and began to push upward but stopped and hesitated. This had to be done. Slowly, she pressed her shoulder against door. It took every bit of fortitude she had, but finally she accomplished her task. She grasped her treasures tightly and rushed up through the opening until she found herself safely in the kitchen once more.

Emma cleared the table and placed the collection and box in the centre. After returning the pantry to its former disguise, she sat down on the kitchen chair and looked at the soiled cloth bundle. She breathed a heavy sigh, picked up the wooden box, and looked into the stone.

Watery depths and fireflies … stars falling up from the earth, she whispered. Rose … how I miss you. How am I going to figure all of this out without you?

Emma knew that she only had two days to decipher the remainder of the mystery. With her dreams now shrouded with unsettling visions, her mind was exhausted. Was there something evil truly waiting in the shadows for her? What did it want from her? She needed to focus, and there was only one place where she could do that. She made a hasty retreat out the back door and down the stone path. She stopped suddenly and then ran back into the house. She tucked the wood box carefully under her arm and returned to the pathway.

She ran past the orchards and through the flowered meadows until she stood at the bottom of the majestic rock that always brought her comfort. Emma climbed carefully to the top and sat comfortably with her legs folded beneath her. With anticipation, she held the wooden box up until the rays of the sun danced upon the colourless stone, which she eagerly examined. There was no change. She held her arms up as high as she possibly could. As they became more and more tired, she placed the box down on the rock’s surface and once again inspected the stone. There wasn’t even the slightest change. Emma was disappointed. She rested her elbows on her crossed legs and tucked her head into the palms of her hands.

Rose had always told her, Things will happen when they’re meant to happen and not a moment sooner. There was something she was overlooking. She so wished her friend was with her now.

Before anyone even realized it, the two days had passed. Emma’s father was content that this would be a perfect sixteenth birthday for his little girl. Her mother had made it a point to keep herself exceedingly busy. It was the only way she could stop worrying. Still, she remained cheerful and shared none of the thoughts that troubled her mind.

Their friends were already busy decorating the market square for the festivities. Emma woke early and did all of her chores, just like any other day. She wandered out to the garden to pick a bouquet of flowers for her mother. She knew her mother loved fresh flowers every day, and she delighted in bringing them to her. She walked over to a dense rose bush and cut three large snow-white blooms. There were two perfect buds on the plant right behind, but Emma couldn’t reach it. She carefully navigated around the branches and thorns until she found her path blocked. As she reached out to snip the soft coral blooms, she was surprised to find a package propped up on some strong branches. She inspected it, but there were no markings on the brown paper and no note attached. She pulled away the paper that concealed her birthday mystery. Her eyes widened and a smile came to her face as she looked down at the carefully-folded garment. She ran inside and held it out in front of her. She had never seen anything quite so delicate. Still, there was still no clue of who had bestowed this gift upon her. She threw off her work clothes and carefully pulled the dress over her head. She twirled and spun and then ran to the stream to see her reflection in the water. She twisted her long raven locks into a knot on the back of her head and looked down into her image. She barely recognized herself.

I look like a princess, she whispered.

Emma had completely forgotten about the flowers and her mother. She danced back to the house with outstretched arms and twirled as the breeze caught the light fabric. She felt like the wind. She could do anything, even if she had to face it alone.

As she entered the kitchen, she was startled by a knock at the door. Still gasping for breath, she pulled back the door.

Mother, I am so sorry.

Her mother looked at her and then pulled her into a gentle embrace. She whispered, My beautiful girl, you look so grown up.

She took Emma’s face into her hands and looked into her child’s eyes.

I am here for you today … this most important day. I will be here for you … always.

Emma looked at the tears in her mother’s eyes and knew that she wouldn’t be alone on her journey. Her mother hugged her once more and then turned toward the road.

We must be going. Your father will be waiting for us at the square. I told him that we’d meet him.

Emma closed the door gently behind her and started toward the road.

You know, don’t you? Have you always? she asked.

No … not really, her mother replied. I’ve always known that you were very special. Anyone could plainly see that. There’s so much, though, that I don’t understand either.

She handed Emma the note she had written to her.

I meant to leave this at Rose’s last night. I’d hoped you might read it when you woke up.

Emma reached for the letter and unfolded it. As they slowly walked the path, Emma began reading her mother’s words. She glanced over at her mother occasionally and then continued.

So, Mother … you will be my guide?

Guide? I’m not sure that I’m able to guide you anywhere, but I will stand with you and be by your side until my part in this is fulfilled.

But why did you not tell me sooner? asked Emma politely.

I was never positive of your destiny. I did have my suspicions. I assumed that Rose had been chosen to be your guide.

She stopped and took Emma by the hand.

Emma, let us rest a moment.

They walked over to a smooth, flat boulder at the side of the path and sat facing each other.

Rose gave this to me years ago. She reached into her satchel and pulled out a packet. I’ve never opened it. Rose was quite clear that it was not to be tampered with until your sixteenth birthday.

They both looked down at it in silence.

Emma, this is yours to open, she said as she handed the package to her.

Emma unfolded the fragile paper with care. The smell of flowers and summer rain filled the air. They both looked at the contents: rose petals and sparkling crystal flakes. Emma folded up the package and attempted to slip it into her pocket, only to realize that she had none. Her mother caught sight of what she had done and they both laughed aloud. She slid the package back into her mother’s satchel as they hurried to meet up with her father.

It wasn’t long before they became aware of the fabric streamers and flowers lining the market. Emma ran straight into her father’s arms.

We love you, Emma … each and every one of us, he said aloud. Then he whispered, But me most of all, my princess.

As she looked around, Emma noticed the tables filled with refreshments and boxes adorned with shiny ribbons. It was all so beautiful and so unexpected. She hardly knew where to look next.

Thank you … thank you all, she said with excitement in her voice.

It was the only response she could find. The look on her face