Night Angel: The Dead Island

By Ghada Elgazzar

Xana Star was raised and trained as a warrior, to slay demons and force the law on all Downworlders, together with her two best friends, Michael and Alston. Xana being a fairy, Michael a werewolf and Alston an elf were forbidden from revealing their nature to the mundanes but when Xana meets Jamie, the mundane, she won't have any control over her feelings. She will have to keep their relation a secret while saving the world from Lovecraft, the warlock, who is trying to awaken lord Anubis to take over the world, and save Jamie from the vampires who kidnapped him to force her to join them. The story is full of adventure, romance, love triangle and betrayal.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Ghada Elgazzar
• Release date: Jun 28, 2021
• ISBN: 9781005075446

Ghada Elgazzar

A wife, a mother and fantasy writer and lover. If you like super-natural things and have an affection for enchanted creatures then you must read my books and let yourself be absorbed in that magical world.

Book preview

I had the idea in my heart for fourteen years. I had to write it down and share it.

This is simply a bit of what’s in my mind. A world I dream about and wish I could live in.

I hope it brings you as much joy as it brought me.

Night Angel

The Dead Island

Book one

It is an ancient need to be told stories.

Alan Rickman.

Acknowledgment

To my daughter and my son, the joys of my life. ‎

To my friend Haley, who encouraged me to tell my stories, ‎

And helped me bring this book to life. ‎

Prologue.

Xana stood for a long time staring at her bathroom mirror, looking at the two tattoos under her collarbones. ‘Salvator Mundi’ ‎savior of the world, and ‘Lux et Lex’ light and law. She broke the law by saving Jamie but how can she be the savior of the world ‎if she left him to die? How can she be both? To save the world and obey the law? She had never broken the laws before. Yes, ‎she was stubborn and rebellious but she didn’t break the rules. She made new choices sometimes and Uriel said it was all right ‎but this time she wasn’t sure. Uriel might accept what she did for Daniel, after all, he entrusted her with keeping the order of the ‎Downworld. But she was certain he wouldn’t accept what she did for Jamie. She feared what might happen if Uriel found out, ‎they might erase Jamie’s memory and she might lose her weapons. But she couldn’t tell Uriel, she wanted Jamie in her life and she ‎would do anything to keep him safe. She hated keeping secrets but it was imperative. ‎

Two pixies flied in front of her face, trying to grab her attention. They had been living in her room since she had saved them ‎from a jar in Edward Wood’s office. They flied close to her face and gently touched her cheeks with their fluttering soft wings. ‎Xana smiled at the tiny pixies, dried her hair quickly with a towel then put on a gray sweater and black jeans and headed to ‎Michael’s room. Then she paused and remembered something, she sent a light message for Uriel explaining what had happened ‎with Daniel and waited patiently for his reply. Uriel didn’t object saying she didn’t break any major rules but he made her ‎responsible for Daniel’s actions and if he broke any laws she would put him down immediately. Xana’s tension eased up only a ‎tiny bit, she expected that reply from Uriel, it was his reply if she had told him about Jamie that worried her the most. ‎

"They clamour and fight, they doubt and despair, they know no end to their wrangling.

Let your life come amongst them like a flame of light, my child, unflickering and pure, and delight them into silence."

The Child Angel. By; Rabindranath Tagore

1

*The Legend

Deep in the enchanted forest, on the edge of Elond. It was a full moon night in April when Lilly the Medela fairy was giving birth to her firstborn, only moments before midnight. Lilly was breathing with a rhythm, waiting impatiently to meet her daughter and hold her in her arms, she knew it was a girl, something deep within her knew all along, and she trusted her senses. On the other hand, Pairo, Lilly’s husband was anxious, pacing in front of their room. Wings spread, fists clenched, and heart racing. He was both worried and excited. They waited for a long time to have this baby. Inside, Lilly gave birth to a baby girl. She threw her head back on her pillow, catching her breath, closing her eyes, and allowing Aldora to take care of her tiny newborn. Aldora, the wise fairy, held the baby carefully in her arms, looking at her with mixed emotions. She was worried, taken aback, and astonished, her gray eyes wide and her hands slightly shaking. There was something strange about this baby. Pairo lost his patience. It was taking so long he couldn’t wait any longer. He burst into the room then stood still staring at the scene in front of him, he saw Aldora holding something so bright in her hands, something that made Aldora’s gray hair glimmer and her wings sparkle. He took a step closer and found out that the glowing thing was his baby, wrapped in a blanket. Pairo was puzzled, baby fairies do not glow or shine like this. Medela Fairies are magical creatures with wings and healing powers. Only an angel can glow like this. Her glow was soft and soothing, yet powerful, it could light the whole room. Pairo and Aldora exchanged anxious looks when Lilly’s voice broke the silence. Why is she different Aldora, what is wrong with my baby? The moment Lilly had reopened her eyes and was ready to meet her daughter, she knew something was wrong, the look on her husband’s face and the glow from the blanket between Aldora’s arms indicated it, her heart skipped a beat waiting for an answer. Aldora was the keeper of the fairies’ library and they called her the wise fairy. She always attended births to give her blessings. But even Aldora with all her knowledge didn’t know the answer to Lilly’s question, she suspected but she was not sure. With careful hands, she handed the baby to Lilly. I’m not sure, I have to consult this with the King and Queen but don’t worry my dear, I’m sure it’s all going to be all right. And without a second glance at Pairo, she left the room and hurried to the royal palace. Pairo approached his wife. She looked tired and worried. Her black hair disarranged, sweat formed small beads on her forehead and her green eyes were fixed on her baby, while she held her with careful arms. He wanted to comfort and assure her. She is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen, Pairo said while looking at his baby in Lilly’s arms, and he was right, the baby was beautiful, she had emerald green eyes, an unusual color for a baby, silky black hair, so dark like a moonless night, her skin fair and flawless like all the fairies. She was so tiny, he took her from Lilly and held her in his strong arms, and his brown eyes studied her with love and pride. I don’t think glowing is a bad thing, angels glow and look at them, they are the most magnificent creatures in the world, Pairo added and gave his wife a half-smile, Lilly looked a bit relieved after hearing that, she rested her head on the satin pillow, then she said, I’m sure Aldora will know the reason for the glow. She pushed away any negative thoughts and let herself admire the view of her husband and daughter.

***

Aldora closed the small wooden door to Pairo and Lilly’s house and hurried along the forest. With a worried look in her gray eyes, she knew the baby was not any ordinary fairy, but it can’t be it’s just a legend. She followed the stone path that crossed the forest all the way to the royal palace. Aldora was so absorbed in her thoughts, she didn’t notice how the enchanted forest looked different tonight. It never looked better, the full moon was so big and bright with a silver and blue aura around it, the river was sparkling like a thousand stars were scattered on the surface, will-O’-wisps were dancing above the water. The mermaids were out enjoying the full moon beams, splashing each other and singing with enchanting voices. The grass thick and soft, the colorful squirrels and rabbits chasing each other playfully, the huge trees covered with moss seemed to whisper through the soft wind. Every creature in the enchanted forest felt something different in the air that night. Despite all the magic, this place contained they felt something extra, something glamorous was happening that night, something powerful and good, something made all the Medela fairies come out to watch the sky and enjoy this night’s tender breeze. Even the green and orange monkeys were hyperactive that night, jumping between the huge branches. The black elephants were walking slowly between the trees, ignoring the noisy monkeys above them. The enchanted forest’s famous butterflies were circling around the roses, their bright colors gleaming as they crossed under the moon’s silver beams. Even the miniature dragons were out of their caves, walking around the forest, they were a lovely sight with their small legs and spiked tails, they ran around Aldora wanting to play, they were such playful creatures, unlike the regular dragons, which lived far in the forest, away from Elond. Aldora wasn’t in the mood to play with the dragons, she kept walking fast toward the castle with wide, hurried strides and a clouded mind. Her gown flowed around her figure and the tail of her gown skimmed the grass softly and rapidly. Aldora reached the castle, panting and anxious. She said to the guard with a firm tone, I must see the king and queen now, it’s urgent. The guard bowed respectfully and went inside the castle. People usually came to the King and Queen of the Seelie Court seeking their help and asking to be healed. A few moments later, he came back and said to Aldora The king and queen are waiting for you in the throne room.

She hurried inside straight to the throne room. The castle was glorious, the walls were made of gold, silk curtains covering ceiling-length glass windows. A glass ceiling showed the sky above. The stars were twinkling around the full moon. The stars in Myron always twinkled brighter than any other place. The floors were covered with moss and tiny white roses blossomed here and there between the soft moss. The throne room was not different from the rest of the castle except for the crystal throne. Pixies were flying around it. The floors were transparent and underneath them was a lake full of beautiful colored fish swimming under the whole room. The water was so clear you could see the bottom of the lake, white sand, and green weeds that seemed to dance along with the movement of the fish. The two thrones stood out at the end of the room, glorious and beautiful, on a crystal step, higher than the rest of the room. The moonbeams made the thrones glow. A crystal table was set on one side of the room. A glass dome was above the throne, showing millions of stars. Queen Elianor was on the throne wearing a long blue silk dress that matched the color of her eyes, with glittering silver stars on the long tail that was spread under her feet. Her golden hair on one side of her slim body all the way till her waist, her blue eyes twinkling, Is everything all right, Aldora? she asked with a worried voice, which was uncommon for the lovely fairy queen of the Seelie Court. I’m sorry to disturb my lady at such a late hour, but something very strange happened, Aldora said with an uncertain tone. King Randall was standing near the window. Aldora didn’t notice he was there. He was wearing his golden cape above a blue suit that matched the color of the queen’s dress. His blond hair is covered with a crystal crown. He spoke to Aldora. What do you mean by strange? The king knotted his arms behind his back waiting for an answer. Aldora stood quietly for a moment, trying to figure the right thing to say. Then she said, Lilly Star gave birth to a glowing baby girl. The king and queen exchanged a look. What do you mean by a glowing baby? asked the king who looked puzzled, his hands fell free to his side and he took a step forward. His golden eyes are now fixed on Aldora. Her skin glows, my lord. Like the angels. A bright, clear light surrounds her, it comes from within her, she paused before adding, You know the legend, my lord. That’s why I came to you first. King Randall was deeply absorbed in his thoughts. His golden eyes focused elsewhere now. It was a while before the king spoke again. You are the only one who would know best if this is the real legend or not. I have to get back to the enchanted books, my lord. Before I can confirm anything, Aldora said politely. Very well then. And I want you to bring me what you’ll find as soon as you find it. The king’s tone was authoritative and firm. Of course, my lord, excuse me. The king signaled to her that she could leave. She bowed to the queen and left heading to her library in the old tower. King Randall was rarely worried. The fairy world was a peaceful place. Medela Fairies keep to themselves and no trouble ever occurred. Queen Elianor never saw her husband like this. Randall, do you think this child is dangerous? If I remember correctly, she is not. She is just very different from us. She is intended to do things beyond our powers. What are you talking about beyond our powers? You know the legend, my dear. Every single creature in the enchanted world knows it. The king sounded tired. You mean the light princess? But it can’t be. It’s only an old tale. The queen tried to dismiss her husband’s concerns. But all the tales are true, said King Randall with a firm voice, stopping the queen from discussing the matter anymore. He was worried about the unknown. Of the unlimited powers, the legend spoke of and what these powers might bring upon his kingdom. Medela Fairies only interact with other magical creatures to heal them. They only offer this much help. They are never involved in anything happening outside their forest. All the wars between angels and demons. The ultimate struggle between the werewolves and the vampires. Even the world of witches and wizards and warlocks. They never cared who they are healing as long as he didn’t commit any crime. But this baby being born means they will have to deal with all of this and be involved in everything.

***

Back in the tower, Aldora had most of the enchanted books scattered around the huge wooden table in the middle of the room. The library was stacked from floor to ceiling with books, all kinds of books, row after row. Big and small books, mostly worn out. Some were in leather binding while others had wooden covers with locks. Even books in many different languages, some only contained symbols, while others only held empty pages. The room was lit by a witch light. One wall had a huge fireplace. Another wall wasn’t exactly a wall, it was a tree trunk, a huge trunk. This had been the oldest tree not just in the enchanted forest, but in all of Myron. That tree had been here for over a thousand years. The fairies built the tower around it to honor it. The windows in the room weren’t so big like the ones in the castle, but rather small without any curtains. The floors were made out of dark wood and had no carpets. Aldora was moving fast between the shelves and the table, bringing more books, going through them fast. It took her most of the night until she came across a very old book, large with green binding and golden writing. Ahh, finally. The book of ancient legends, Aldora said with a relieved tone.

***

King Randall sent for Lilly and Pairo to come to the castle the next morning. Lilly’s heart sank when the guard delivered them the message. She couldn’t stop worrying about her baby, and she didn’t sleep at all last night. She could see that Pairo was worried too, only he was trying to hide his fears from her. They were silent on the way to the castle. They crossed a group of fairies dancing and singing, their long dresses and capes flying behind them with the wind. Fairy music was divine and to humans, it could drive them insane, drag them from a deep sleep and make them drown themselves in the ocean just to reach the source of it. When the dancing group saw Lilly and Pairo, they exchanged anxious looks. Some leaned in and gossiped in low murmurs in each other’s ear. Lilly, luckily, didn’t hear what they said, she hugged her wrapped baby tighter to her chest, trying to hide her from those curious eyes, Pairo noticed too and got irritated. Of course, everyone knew about his daughter by now. There were no secrets in this forest. When they entered the throne room, King Randall, Queen Elianor and Aldora were all bending over something on the crystal table. The room looked spectacular in the daylight, sunshine reflected on the water beneath the room, the crystal throne casting colorful patches of light on the walls, fresh flowers were put in every corner, Pixies flying around the flowers, making soft buzzing sounds with their tiny wings.

The king looked immediately with studying golden eyes at Lilly and the baby. He knew then what Aldora meant by ‘glowing baby,’ it was as if she was made of witch light, or she was a witch light stone herself. The light emitted from within her, not just an aura around her. The king did not say anything. It made Lilly even more nervous. Something in his eyes was intimidating. The queen, on the other hand, was calm as usual in a satin light-pink dress. She approached Lilly, the dress tail sweeping on the glass floor behind her. Congratulation on your baby, she said in a cheerful voice. Pairo bowed and said, Thank you, my lady. Lilly couldn’t say anything at all, her heartbeats were thundering in her ears at this point. The queen touched the baby’s cheek and said, She is such a beautiful girl. She was studying the baby’s features with interest. Only then, Lilly managed to say Thank you, my lady. You must be wondering why I have requested your presence, the king said with a cold tone, maybe even bitter. Then he gestured them to approach the table. Laying on it was a book. The same book that Aldora was so relieved to find the night before. Aldora, do you mind explaining why this baby is different from us, the king continued in the same tone without taking his eyes off the baby. Aldora smiled at Lilly. She could tell how nervous she was. She pushed the book closer to where Lilly and Pairo stood. The pages were yellowish and worn out. This is the great book of legends and there is something in it about that special baby of yours. Here look, she said with as much enthusiasm as if someone had found a cure for cancer. Without waiting for Lilly and Pairo to say anything, she went on. "The legend says:

‘Princess of light,

Born on a full moon night.

Damned creatures fear her sight,

With powers blessed by the angels,

All must praise angel of the night."

Aldora was looking at the words with joy, she finished and examined Lilly’s and Pairo’s faces trying to figure out how they felt.

Lilly’s mouth was slightly open. She looked down at the book. The writing was neat with a golden glow, other writings were there too, but in a language, she didn’t understand, and there were angelic symbols. In the middle of the page, there was a picture of an angel. A female angel actually, with waist-length hair and huge wings, a sword in each hand, and under her feet, there was something that looked like ashes, but what caught her attention the most was that her body was gleaming like her baby’s body. Aldora went on, I think your daughter is the one the legend spoke of. All the signs fit, the full moon and the light. She is the princess of the light, this glow is power, Angelic powers. Those powers will be beyond any fairy powers or magic. This will enable her to fight dark creatures, Downworlders, and outlaws. She is just like a warrior angel, and she is considered royal. All enchanted creatures must respect her and assist her in her mission. That mission is sacred and divine. Lilly finally spoke interrupting Aldora, What do you mean fight Downworlders? Are you talking about demons? It seemed that that was the only thing Lilly had heard. Aldora said matter-of-factly. Demons, dark warlocks, dark wizards and vampires who bite humans and…. A shiver went down Lilly’s spine. Her eyes were wide with horror and her voice came out as a shriek cutting Aldora off. We don’t fight demons, she is just a baby. Pairo put his arm around Lilly’s shoulder trying to comfort her. She had gotten so pale and he wasn’t very comfortable either. He was about to say something when the king said in a firm tone. She is not going to fight them now, He looked so annoyed. We can’t deny or hide who she is. I am bound by the law to declare her birth to the enchanted council. The angels have the right to claim her. The king was so firm it made Lilly shiver. One phrase was hanging in her brain: claim her She wanted to scream at the king, but instead she held her baby tight against her chest. Both Aldora and the queen looked at Lilly with sympathy. King Randall was always a tolerant man, willing to talk to his people, humble and noble, but he was so different today. He was cold, uncaring about the star family’s feelings, worried, and irritated. The king spoke again. Now that Aldora has explained everything you may go. I will send you a message to attend the council meeting. He waved his hand, dismissing them without looking at them. He went back to stare at the book, knotting his hands behind his back, his crown was uncharacteristically askew and his shoulders were tensed like he was carrying the weight of the world on them. Pairo was puzzled. He hadn’t seen his king like this before. He turned around leading his wife out, putting his arm around her shoulder. Lilly felt like she was sinking into the ground, her knees no longer able to carry her. If it wasn’t for Pairo supporting her, she would have fallen. Aldora asked to be excused too, she looked at the king, who gave her a dismissing wave, she grabbed the book and hurried outside the throne room. The queen was quiet during all this. She didn’t understand her husband’s behavior. She moved closer to him, Why were you so harsh with Lilly and Pairo? It’s so unlike you, Randall. He paused before he spoke. They have no idea about the threat that child poses to our kingdom. What threat? I don’t think she is… The king cut her off sharply. His voice was loud and angry. Don’t you understand? Not a creature in the Downworld won’t know about her birth. They know she is dangerous to them. They will want her dead before she is a threat to them. What if they decide to attack our forest to get her? Do you think we have a chance against them? He took a deep breath before he added, I wish I could just hide her and pretend she was never born, to protect you and all of our people, but you know how I’m bound by the law. Only then did the good king realize that he was shouting. He saw that his wife took a few steps back from him with a horrified expression on her face and one hand covering her mouth. The king suddenly felt so tired and remembered that he hadn’t had any sleep last night, he moved slowly to the throne. The sun was casting golden rays on his crown, making the green gems glimmer. He threw himself down with a thud and put his face between his hands. His shoulders were still hunched. He looked defeated and older than he really was. He spoke again in a low voice close to a whisper. His voice was muffled, his face was still between his hands. It’s a huge responsibility cast on my back. I don’t even know if I’m up to it. If I’m qualified enough to do my duty towards the angels, towards my kingdom. His voice went even lower, the queen had to strain her ears to hear him. And toward her. The queen moved slowly toward her husband and put her hand on his shoulder. He tensed but didn’t look up. You are a great king. You always have been. I’m sure you will do the right thing. The queen’s voice was so tender. The king looked up at her; her golden hair was around her face and all the way down her back. Her eyes so blue like the ocean on a sunny day and she was smiling at him. He took her hand in his and smiled back at her.

"Go and stand amidst their scowling hearts, my child, and let

Your gentle eyes fall upon them like the forgiving peace of the

Evening over the strife of the day.

Let them see your face, my child, and thus know the meaning

Of all things; let them love you and thus love each other."

The Child Angel. By: Rabindranath Tagore.

2

*The Council

Aldora went straight to Lilly’s house, clutching the heavy book in her arms. She felt she owed a better explanation to Lilly and Pairo, especially after the king’s unusual behavior. Pairo let Aldora in. She found Lilly sitting on a rocking chair beside the fireplace with her baby between her arms. It was a sunny day, a few sun rays escaped from between the lace curtains and were reflected on Lilly’s face showing the circles under her dark green eyes, unlike the baby’s emerald shining eyes. The room looked cozy and warm with white chairs and a floral couch. Lilly didn’t look up. She was busy stroking her baby’s hair. Aldora moved closer to Lilly and patted her arm. She spoke in a very gentle voice. I came to help you understand better what the legend means. I sense that you need to know more. Your daughter is different, Lilly, but in a good way and you have to accept what she will become and be proud of her. She has a noble mission. Lilly looked up at Aldora and stared into her eyes for a moment. Then she said, You have no idea what you are talking about. My worries aren’t whether or not should I accept her abilities or be proud of her. I’m afraid for her life. I don’t want anything to harm her. My dear Lilly. I see no reason for you to worry … Aldora started gently. Lilly cut her off in a sharp way with a loud angry voice. Oh, you wouldn’t know, of course, how it feels to worry about your child, would you? Wise Aldora! There was a sarcastic tone in her voice. It seemed like she decided to take her anger with King Randall out on Aldora, who looked as if someone had slapped her hard across her face. She backed away from Lilly. Her hands were shaking with a tormented look in her eyes. Pairo shot Lilly an accusing glare before he said to Aldora I’m sorry. You have to forgive Lilly. She hasn’t been sleeping enough. Aldora was near the wooden door now. She nodded at Pairo, apparently not able to speak. Her eyes were shining. She paused at the door before saying, You have a miracle between your hands. Pairo smiled at her, while Lilly was looking at her baby again ignoring Aldora completely. Aldora opened the door and went outside. She took a deep breath and was glad for the wind blowing on her face. Pairo came out after her and asked, Why does the king have to inform the council about my daughter? Aldora replied, Because her legend isn’t just a fairy legend. That legend was mentioned in the books of the angels, elves, and warlocks. What I understood from my books is that they will play a role in her upbringing and will be responsible for her just like King Randall is responsible for his people. Pairo looked puzzled, Is that what he meant by claiming her? Because that sounded like they can take her away from us. he asked in a worried tone. I don’t think King Randall will allow such thing, Pairo. Anyway, he has to wait for the council’s decisions. She smiled and turned around, but she stopped and turned back and said, Stay by Lilly’s side. I can understand how worried she is. She managed a small smile then walked away. Pairo had always been calm, keeping his worries hidden. He thought there was no need to express them aloud as long as he could figure out how to solve the matter. Lilly on the other hand was rational, nervous, and had a bad temper. It makes one think how two different people like them ended up together. They were like fire and ice.

He gazed at the horizon with his dark brown eyes, pushed his dark hair away from his eyes as the wind blew. He had so many things to worry about at that moment. His strange baby, his worried wife, and his king’s weird behavior plus the enchanted council and what they would decide about his family.

***

King Randall’s messengers delivered the message to the enchanted leaders. They traveled through the portal in the castle’s garden. It was the second portal in the enchanted forest. The replies came almost immediately and the date was set for the next day. Only the angels were informed by light messages.

When Lilly and Pairo entered the castle’s main hall, it was overcrowded. They couldn’t believe how many stood there, or the variety of them, it was startling. They exchanged a worried look. Lilly held the baby tighter while Pairo started looking around trying to take in the new sight. He had never seen such a gathering before. The enchanted council hadn’t gathered in many, many years, not since the Great War between demons and elves. Before that, they gathered to put the first laws and the formation of the council. Trials were held at the land of the accused enchanted creature, and when there was a great crime like killing an innocent, there was no trial and the warrior angels would kill the murderer and burn his body.

Pairo gazed at the hall with wide brown eyes. To his left, he saw a group of elves. He realized they must be knights because of the silver armors they were wearing, some had bows hung on their backs and others had swords, pointed ears, and cold beautiful eyes. Pale skin like the fairies, that was the common feature between the fair folk. They weren’t paying attention to anyone but themselves, with serious expressions on their faces as if they were planning a war. Close to them was another group, standing silent. Pairo tensed when he saw them. Ivory white skin, red eyes, and standing in the shadows, wearing all in black. Vampires, he thought, what were they doing here? They were eyeing everyone around them with caution. Vampires are known for their lack of respect for the law and mischief. Pairo swallowed hard. On the other side, he saw a group of young men, tall, muscled with relaxed expressions. They were wearing ordinary human clothes. He knew they were werewolves because of the silver circles around their irises. They were chatting with a man. He had white hair the color of the clouds, a beard, and a relaxed excited expression. He was wearing a suit and a cape and was smiling. One of the young men was looking at the vampire group, eyeing them with disgust. Beside them was a group of warlocks. Pairo knew because of their warlock marks. One of them was very tall and slender, he had odd eyes, one green and one orange, a tiger’s tail floating behind him. Another warlock had orange skin and a third one had light blue skin and yellow eyes. They were chatting together and laughing. There were many fairies here and there too. But no Devas, the forest fairies from the Unseelie Court. Which was expected. Devas had no respect for the council or the Seelie Court. The guards were standing near the walls watching every move. Lilly was wide-eyed and speechless. She was so nervous. She didn’t notice when Aldora made her way through the crowds towards her until she was in front of her. There you are. Lilly, come along you will wait for the council in another room, Aldora said in her calm cheerful voice. Suddenly everyone in the room seemed aware of her presence. The crowd went quiet except for some whispers here and there, all eyes on Lilly. Or more, on the baby. Pairo tensed while Lilly got angry and quickly followed Aldora. Pairo noticed two of the guards moved behind them. Aldora led them to a small room beside the conclave room. The room was small with wooden furniture. It won’t take long now. How is the baby doing? Aldora asked Lilly while looking at the baby. Lilly felt embarrassed by Aldora’s kindness. She seemed to have forgotten what Lilly said to her the day before. Lilly’s cheeks went red, She is great actually. She rarely cries. Aldora smiled warmly, all of her features lightened up.

I’m sorry for last night, Lilly apologized. I took my anger out on the wrong person.

Aldora nodded, It’s already forgotten, my dear.

***

It wasn’t long until a guard came and informed them that their presence was required. Lilly took a deep breath, kissed her baby, and whispered in her ears, Everything will be all right, I promise you. Pairo followed Lilly and Aldora absentmindedly. The conclave room was huge. Golden walls and a crystal round table. It was illuminated by witch light on the walls and the huge crystal chandelier. The silk curtains were covering the windows. The witch light made the table glow like the heart of a star. The floors were the same as the throne room, glass with water underneath filled with magnificent creatures. The ceiling also had glass showing the night sky above. Myron stars shining so bright. Aldora pointed at two wooden chairs. Apparently, they didn’t belong to the room and were brought just for this occasion. You should sit here, Pairo and Lilly sat down without a word.

A side door opened and the Council members started coming out from it and headed to the crystal table. One by one, each took a seat. King Randall came last escorted by what seemed like a huge golden aura. A blindingly clear golden light. Lilly’s jaw dropped and she couldn’t help but stare. An angel she thought. Pairo was so surprised and shocked. Angels don’t usually show up for a council meeting. They always send messengers on their behalf. The King walked the angel to the high chair behind the table. That was the King’s chair during the meetings but of course, an angel has a higher rank than the King, so he would take that chair instead of one at the table.

The angel was deadly marvelous. He had golden curls surrounding his face that were gleaming, bright skin, and a halo of golden light all around him. His eyes were so blue and so deep. One could stare at his face for eternity. His cheekbones looked like marble, high and elegant. His wings were huge, feathery, and white with silver and golden glow. He was wearing golden armor. The look on his face was serious with superiority in it. He sat down on the chair with a hand on each arm. King Randall bowed to the angel and went to the table.

The angel fixed his gaze on the baby, his face had no emotions in it. A beautiful face, but hollow.

King Randall looked so tired like he hadn’t slept for days. He stood on one side of the crystal table and said, Leaders of the enchanted world, I introduce Lilly and Pairo Star. Everyone at the table looked at them. Some of them smiled, and some were hard-faced, but all of them had curious eyes. King Randall was in his white silk cloak and silver crown with leaf shapes carved on it. He turned towards the angel and said, Angel Cassiel. Leader of the warrior angels. He will honor us with leading the council meeting today. Everyone bowed to angel Cassiel.

‘Leader of the warrior angels’ Pairo thought and was confused.

King Randall went on introducing everyone else. Beside him was a man with broad shoulders. His eyes were brown, the same color as his hair with a silver rim around his irises, and wore ordinary human clothes, jeans, and a white T-shirt. Fenris Oakstaff. Leader of the werewolves, King Randall said. Fenris smiled a friendly smile to Lilly and Pairo. Something about him was reassuring and warm. Opposite from Fenris, sat another man with ivory skin, black sleek hair, and bright red eyes. Emrick Bendsteen. Leader of the vampires. Pairo guessed who he was before the King said it. He was in a black suit. His eyes lingered on the baby for a moment and his cold smile sent cold shivers down Lilly’s spine. Beside him was the man from the hall, the one who was talking to the young boys. Calum Bennet. The higher warlock and head of the white warlocks. He bowed to Lilly and Pairo and smiled a warm smile. He looked like a nice man.

Last, beside Fenris was an elf, King Elion. King of the elves. He was wearing silver armor like his knights. He had piercing green eyes and silver hair, so pale it was almost white with a golden crown on his head. He looked very serious. He looked at Pairo and Lilly for a moment without smiling before returning his gaze to King Randall. The water underneath the crystal floor rippled and moved, an undercurrent seemed to be crossing under the room, everyone looked down. Two lines of mermaids and mermen assembled and stood still facing each other forming two rows with a distance between them, their faces were beautiful but expressionless. Lilly was amazed by the sight of merepeople. Between the two rows appeared Mereda, lady of the merepeople and queen, she was magnificent with a purple tail and fiery red hair, at least that was all Lilly could see under the water. The floor opened at the end of one side of the crystal table, the water rippled and rose to form a chair, where Lady Mereda sat gazing at everyone, the water stopped moving as the queen’s chair was in the same order as the rest of the chairs around the table, right beside the warlock’s chair. Lady Mereda addressed Angel Cassiel directly, almost immediately after her seat took a position, I’m sorry for the late arrival Angel Cassiel. She gave the angel a small bow, which the angel returned. Lilly was amazed by how the water had formed a chair and stood still holding that shape, but she was more amazed by Lady Mereda’s aqua eyes, their shade was beautiful and mesmerizing, for a moment, Lilly seemed to have forgotten her worries, she was absorbed in admiring the beauty of the queen of the merepeople.

Angel Cassiel spoke, his voice so beautiful like wind chimes, and yet so strong it made the water ripple under the glass floor. Bring the baby to me. Lilly’s heart sank to her knees, she was immediately back to her senses with a sharp pull. Aldora came from behind the two chairs where Lilly and Pairo were sitting. They didn’t even notice she was there. They were very focused on the scene in front of them. She took the baby and moved toward the angel. Lilly’s and Pairo’s eyes were wide and worried, green and brown following Aldora moving with their baby. Angel Cassiel didn’t stand. He took the baby from Aldora’s hands and held her in front of him, studying her small face. Her skin started glowing even more then. So bright and clear between Cassiel’s hands. one can distinguish the baby’s glow from the angel’s as her glow was bright silver and white while Cassiel’s glow was golden. Cassiel smiled a rare smile. Angels were usually serious and didn’t show their emotions, they were scary beings among the enchanted creatures. But that smile was enough for Lilly’s tension to ease up a bit. Pairo was smiling at the beautiful sight. Cassiel spoke again, still holding the baby, She is the Light Princess, and she has my blessings, he paused and held her with one hand while putting his other hand on her head. A golden aura started forming around the baby who was staring at Cassiel’s blue eyes. He was chanting in a soft voice. When he stopped, the golden aura vanished. Everyone was watching the beautiful sight. Cassiel stood up and headed towards the crystal table. He waved his hand and a golden circle of light appeared in the middle of the table. Everyone stood up as well. He placed the baby on the light which magically held her the same way Cassiel was holding her. He started chanting again and Lilly wished she could understand angels’ language, but from the rhythm of it, she guessed it was a prayer. More blessings from the angel. When he was done, he said, As the leader of warrior angels I will be responsible for her training. I assign angel Uriel as her mentor. She will have our help whenever she needs it and we will be responsible for her missions. King Randall spoke then, Are you sure that she is the Light Princess? his voice shaking a little, his eyes lingered on the baby. Cassiel looked annoyed at that question. Do you think I’m wrong, Randall? his face went grim and a flash of fury passed his blue eyes. The King swallowed hard. The angel’s expression was scary to him. Of course not, my lord. A cold shiver ran down the king’s spine. Fenris spoke then. And we shall assist her as well. I’ll let her train with my son and teach her our techniques. We will be loyal to her. He bowed to Cassiel and tilted his head to the side to watch the baby. King Elion said, We will teach her our ways as well and we will be loyal to her. Then as Fenris did he bowed to Cassiel. Calum who looked so excited leaned forward, closer to the baby, and said, I will be delighted to teach her about magic and assist her in her missions and be loyal to her, and he bowed to Cassiel. Emrick cleared his throat, I’m not sure if there’s anything I can teach her. Cassiel spoke with a firm tone, You are not here to assist. You are here to serve and obey. He looked at Emrick with piercing eyes. She has permission to end any of your kind who breaks the law. That goes for all of you. She has the authority to protect innocents just like an angel. I’m her leader and not you Randall. She will report to me.

Everyone went silent. Lilly hadn’t noticed that her mouth was slightly open the whole time until Pairo reached out and put his hand under her chin and pushed lightly up. She swallowed and looked at him. Pairo was taken aback and slightly shaking. Cassiel’s tone was soft when he asked Lilly, What have you named her?

Lilly said without thinking. Xana. Pairo looked surprised. They hadn’t picked a name together and he thought it was something they were going to do later. Why did you choose that name? Cassiel asked, in the same soft tone. Lilly replied, I dreamed about it.

It was meant to be then. All hail Princess Xana Star. Everyone repeated after Cassiel, All hail princess Xana Star. Even Pairo, Lilly, and Aldora said it too.

"No coward soul is mine,

No trembler in the world’s storm-troubled sphere,

I see Heaven's glories shine,

And Faith shines equal arming me from Fear."

No Coward Soul Is Mine - Poem by Emily Jane Brontë

3

*New Powers

Lilly thought she ought to be worried and nervous about the decisions of the enchanted council about Xana. But somehow she wasn’t. She was unusually calm and relaxed, the knot in her heart eased up a little. She accepted the fact that her daughter had an angel guard at her door. Who followed her around like a shadow. She couldn’t take Xana, anywhere without him following close by, keeping an eye on Xana’s every move and gesture, he never talked or smiled, only watched with an intense gaze. She also accepted the constant visits of Calum Bennet, the higher warlock. He was such a nice man. Lilly actually liked having him around to ask him about all the things she wanted to understand about her daughter and what made her so special. He was always more than glad to answer. His excitement about Xana was unlimited. He kept records of every action she took and recorded all her progress. Lilly couldn’t help but wonder what he was expecting to find. After all, Xana was still a baby. Even her glow had started to fade and only came back when she was upset. Calum told Lilly once that, Xana’s powers could emerge at any time, and we must be ready for that, and he was right. When Xana turned one, she grew wings, big, white, feathered wings. Similar to the angels’ wings. Fairies grew their wings at the age of six. And their wings are smaller than the angels’ and colorful and also not feathery. The angel guard informed Uriel who came immediately to check on Xana. Calum was excited like a six-year-old going to Disneyland for the first time. He kept admiring her wings all the time.

Uriel informed Lilly and Pairo that Xana’s flying lessons should begin, She should learn how to control and use her wings at a young age. He told them with his steady confident voice after he saw the look of doubt in their eyes. The lessons were something magical to watch. Uriel would spread his huge wings, blocking the sunlight. Showing Xana how to spread hers and flap them swiftly till she elevated and flown around Uriel, who would catch her before she fell to the ground and put her gently on the grass to start over again. It took some time for Xana to learn how to land on her feet, but she was eager to learn. She kept trying and didn’t stop until she got it right. Lilly and Pairo would stand and watch their daughter learn from her mentor for hours.

Whenever doubt and fear would creep into Lilly’s heart, she remembered the way Cassiel held Xana in his hands. How he lifted her close to his face and smiled at her. The memory of that scene kept her calm, it assured her that everything was going to be all right. The angels were guarding her baby.

Soon enough, Xana developed new powers. Moving objects around with a beam of her light just by pointing at them. And with a little concentration, she was able to blow up rocks with the same beam. This time, it was Calum’s responsibility to teach her the proper use of that magic. He would spend hours with her in the forest showing her how to focus her energy, blue and red sparks coming out from his fingertips while silver ones emitted from Xana’s. Both aiming at rocks, sometimes moving them and other times destroying them. Aldora was there as well, watching and guiding Xana around. She would tell her stories about fairies and warlocks and angels. She acted as a loving, caring grandmother. Lilly was glad for that. Aldora always loved kids. Fenris Oakstaff, also visited Xana often, keeping an eye on her progress. Xana loved him. She would run to meet him, spreading her tiny arms so he would carry her. At his last visit, she flew to him. She loved Calum as well. She was always happy to see him, always eager to show him what she could do. Lilly and Pairo felt the same about them. Fenris and Pairo looked like old friends, always chatting and laughing together. But Xana never liked Lionar the same way. The elf guard was sent by King Elion. He was so stiff. He never smiled, only watched her closely without interacting with her at all. She never ran to meet him the way she did with Fenris and Calum. She loved running and hiding from him and watching him get frustrated when he couldn’t find her.

By the age of four, Fenris, said one day, It’s time she meets new creatures, she must know what else is out there and be prepared for it. He decided to show himself as a wolf for the first time in front of her. Lilly held her tight between her arms and Pairo stood beside her with a weary smile. They figured that Xana would be terrified. All the animals of Incantia were deep in the forest and she hadn’t met any of them so close like she was about to.

Fenris stood at a safe distance from them and said with his deep warm voice. Xana, I will show you now what I really am. Don’t be afraid. And he started to change. His fingernails turned to black pointed claws. His teeth turned into huge white fangs and his ears got furry and pointed. In a moment his transformation was complete and an extra-large gray wolf was standing before them. To their astonishment, Xana jumped off her mother’s arms and ran towards Fenris with a huge smile on her lovely face. She hugged his oversized leg. He lowered his head and she started petting his head and ruffling his long fur. Calum laughed loudly and clapped his hands. God bless that child. She wasn’t even afraid, not one bit. Pairo and Lilly looked at each other and smiled, their daughter had done something marvelous. Even mature fairies had trouble seeing werewolves change. It was a scary thing to watch, and here was a four-year-old who was relaxed as if she had found a stray kitten. Fenris agreed with Pairo before he left that he would bring Michael with him, his youngest son. He was one year older than Xana. They should start training together now and Xana must learn all the wolves’ ways of fighting. Lionar also informed Pairo that King Elion will send his son Alston for the training and teaching Xana the elves’ ways in the battles. That was part of their agreement at the council meeting when Xana was born.

On Fenris’s next visit he brought his son Michael with him. A five-year-old adorable little boy. He looked just like Fenris. Bright brown eyes, wavy brown hair touching his bare shoulders, and a wide warm friendly smile. Xana liked him on the spot. She hadn’t had any real friends her age before. All the fairies were actually afraid of letting their children play with her. Especially under the constant watch of an angel, warlock, and elf guards, besides Aldora and her parents. She didn’t really have anyone to play with. Michael was the first friend she ever had. For Michael, it was the same. He liked Xana as well. Having five older brothers only made him yearn for a sister. Since their first meeting together they became inseparable. They would go together with Calum into the forest, where Xana was getting her lessons. Michael would watch Xana blow up rocks with wide eyes and a slightly open mouth. Both Pairo and Lilly were glad for their friendship.

On the other hand, Lionar brought Alston. King’s Elion only child. He had dark green eyes and silver sleek hair, it was so bright, Xana wanted to touch it, but he pulled away with an annoyed look on his face. He wasn’t nice or warm like Michael. But Xana liked everybody so she liked him. Not the way she liked Michael, but she didn’t resent him. The three of them were to take their lessons and training together. Calum was the magic teacher who taught them all they needed to know about warlocks’ magic. He taught Xana how to use her light to move objects, and also Alston who could control the elements. That was the elves’ powers. Michael didn’t have any of these powers so he would just watch the two of them practice which he didn’t mind. It was fascinating for him to watch such magic. Aldora taught them the history of the enchanted world, the enchanted creatures, and the enchanted legends. They would meet in her tower for the lessons and reading. Xana read most of the books, she liked reading more than the boys did.

Lionar taught them the elves’ ways in battle and fighting, they weren’t allowed real weapons till the age of fifteen. They trained with wooden swords and knives and daggers and bows. Xana preferred the swords, Alston preferred the bow and arrows and Michael chose the daggers and knives. Fenris taught them the werewolves’ fighting ways. Which meant fighting with bare hands and engaging physically with your enemy. Alston hated those lessons, especially when he was to fight Michael. He preferred to keep a distance between him and his opponent. He even hated it more after Michael had turned twelve and had changed for the first time. That was the time for them now to fight a werewolf in wolf form. Xana loved it, she won most times and was able to drop Michael on the ground and kneel on top of him. Alson, of course, was highly annoyed by the physical contact, he would say, I like my enemies at a distance with an arrow through the heart. Xana would laugh at him and say, Not all enemies can be killed through their heart. You have to decapitate most demons and vampires. Don’t you ever read, Alston? That always made Michael giggle, but that didn’t change Alston’s mind, he always refrained from any physical contact.

And finally, Uriel, who taught Xana how to use her light powers and how to fly, he gave Alston flying lessons as well. And again Michael would watch both of them hovering around him. Michael always admired Xana’s wings and he would tease Alston about how her wings were bigger than his.

***

They took these lessons for ten years. They grew up together, became friends and partners. Xana learned so much from them.

Alston told her all about the elves, he even took her to Alavara, the land of elves, a few times. Which she found beautiful. It was like Incantia with its marvelous nature. The forests and the palace of King Elion. Which was made out of silver that shimmered under the moonlight, and was blindingly bright under the sunlight. Everything in Alavara had a leaf shape carved on it, even the crowns of the King and Queen. She didn’t like King Elion and Queen Mariona, Alston’s parents. They weren’t very nice to her whenever she visited them. She thought they were cold and stiff. No wonder Alston is such a tight dude, Michael had told her once and she laughed so hard at that, but told Michael not to say that in front of Alston. She loved the waterfalls of Alavara. She even jumped in them a few times, which made Alston mad. She told him, You don’t know how to have fun, Al. Our idea of fun is clearly different. And it is Alston, Xana. Al, is what you call a common mundane. I’m a royal elf. He told her while stepping away from her while she was trying to dry her hair by squeezing her long locks tight between her palms and shaking her wings to get the water out of their feathers. He hated getting wet. I could always push you, you know. Maybe then you will like it and understand what we are talking about, Michael told Alston in a teasing tone while stepping towards him, hands reaching out to grab Alston. Alston stepped away from him and shot him an angry look. Stop it you two. When will you ever grow up and stop these arguments? Xana told them both, stepping forward to stand between the two boys to separate them. We should head back to Incantia anyway. Calum said that Uriel needs the three of us in the tower, She told the boys and spun around towards the portal. It wasn’t so far from the waterfalls. She made her wings disappear. Something she learned to do when she was six when Alston kept pulling their feathers. Uriel was impressed. Only angels could show or hide their wings magically like that. Fairies and elves couldn’t. Which was another thing Michael teased Alston about. The two boys followed her. Alston kept a safe distance between him and Michael so he wouldn’t be able to push him into the waterfall. The portal was guarded by two elf knights, with their bows and silver armors. The three of them went through it and came out in Incantia. That side of the portal was guarded by one elf knight and a werewolf. Since there weren’t any fairy knights or warriors, fairies of the Seelie Court were healers and people of peace. Xana was the first to learn how to fight and act during a battle, the first to have such magic, and the first with those angelic wings. The three of them walked through the forest towards the tower. It was noon and the sun was high in the blue sky. Something Xana was grateful for. At least her clothes will get dry faster. She walked first and the boys followed her. Michael behind her and Alston at the back. It was always that way. Alston hated when Michael would come from behind him and put bugs on his hair so he always chose to walk last behind them. Xana had grown into a beautiful teen fairy. Her hair got so long it reached the end of her back, she always left it free and wild. You never saw her with a ponytail or a bun. Her eyes the same emerald green and fair pale skin. She didn’t get so tall, which annoyed her. She was tiny beside the two boys. But as always, eager to learn new things and prove that she could do anything her mentors asked her to do. Michael was growing fast, his brown hair fair and wavy, he always kept it at his shoulders. His eyes bright brown with the silver rim around his irises now. He got muscular. Something all werewolves shared. His smile is still as friendly and warm as ever. He was humorous all the time. Always finding new ways to annoy Alston. Alston was slightly shorter than Michael, which annoyed him. His hair was so long