The Crown of Pearls

A TRIANGLE-SHAPED BIRTHMARK WAS ON HER LEFT PALM.
Mara was shocked. That was not their before. All the sides of her brain were coming up with any possible reason on how this happened, although most of them were not very logical.

Did they put a tattoo on my hand or something? Or maybe that's a patch from a surgery? Then why isn't there a bandage? Maybe that's paint? Aaargh!

At first, Mara thought that Ezra was just joking. Mara knew that someone like Ezra would never dare tell a joke, but it was more probable than having a birthmark all of a sudden. How could she possibly have a birthmark at this age? She had to have it since birth. That was why it was even called a birthmark, right?

Mara thought that maybe her head was playing tricks on her, or maybe she got carried away by Ezra's story. Mara closed her eyes, expecting that when she opened them again the birthmark would be gone, but it was useless. It was still there.

Mara almost forgot that Ezra was watching her. She must have looked like a total idiot, gaping at her hand like that. How unladylike. But that was the least of her worries.

How did this happen? Come on, Mara. Think.

Then she remembered something. Her dream. It was the same as the last scene of Ezra's story.

Ocean-blue eyes. Where have I seen those before, besides from my dream? Yes. I'm positive. I've seen them. But where?

"Does Catherine have ocean-blue eyes?"

"Yes, that's right."

There was a long pause, and for Mara, it was like everything stopped. Did that meant that her dream was real? Then how did she ever came to dream of it?

What is going on?!

Finally, Ezra spoke.

"You saw her in a dream, didn't you?"

Mara was surprised beyond words could describe. A million questions were running through her head, all at the same time.

Is this a dream?

"How did you know?"

"Because I did, too."

Huh?

"What do you mean?"

"I've dreamed of her too."

This is insane. What do I do now? Humor him? Punch him? Tell him to stop confusing the heck out of me? What?

"The story is true, Mara."

"Then we're descendants of the Queen? We're curse-bearers? Is that it?"

"Yes."

"I don't believe it."

"You have to, Mara. Whether you like it or not. Because its the truth. And you have to accept it as it is."

"Prove it to me then."

"As you wish."

Mara couldn't help notice that Ezra's face became a lot more serious. He looked much older than he was just minutes ago. He looked more like thirty than twenty. His face was grave and unhumorous.

Don't think about that, Mara. You need your courage now more than ever. Prove to him that you're not someone to fool around. Don't you dare ever show him that you're afraid. And why are you even afraid? He's just a boy for Pete's sake!

"You were having the same dream every night ever since your fourteenth birthday, am I right?"

How did he know that?

Mara was about to put her thoughts into words, but thought better of it. If she asked, that meant that she was acknowledging what Ezra was saying. So she permitted herself to just answer truthfully, but without acknowledging that she believed him.

"Yes."

The way Mara said it, it was like it was the most obvious thing in the world.

You go, girl! Take that, Ezra!

"Look at Violetta's left palm."

"Why should I?"

"I thought you want proof. I'm giving it to you."

"I might wake her up."

"Don't worry. She won't wake up."

"Fine."

Mara wasn't surprised at all when she saw a triangle-shaped birthmark at Violetta's left palm. It was rather expected.

Mara stared at Violetta. There was something important that she was forgetting. Mara couldn't put her finger on it, but she was certain that it was something big. But what was it?

"Do you remember the accident?"

Mara was caught off guard. The doctor said that she has temporary amnesia, but she would remember it soon.

But when she tried to think about it, hard, she saw glimpses. Like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. There was snow, falling everywhere. And then nothing. It was maddening.

"Do you?"

Oh, right. Ezra's here. Sorry, I forgot.

"I remember that it was snowing. But that's it."

"Try to remember."

"I'm trying already!"

"Well, then, try harder."

Seriously, if I'm dealing with something less serious than this I'm going to give you a piece of my mind, Ezra.

"Easier said than done."

Nonetheless, Mara did try harder. She was doing her best to remember, to concentrate. When she thought she could remember something, it will slip off her fingers. It was like catching water with the use of your bare hands.

While trying her best to remember, Mara felt a little pain in the back of her head. It didn't really hurt, but it made Mara uncomfortable. It was like getting hit by a ruler. But slowly, the pain became great, from getting by a ruler to getting hit by a post.

A post? . . . That's it! A post!

Slowly, the memories that were forgotten were finally remembered. The jigsaw pieces fitted perfectly into their places. The memory of the accident became crystal-clear.

So that's where she saw those eyes before.

Violetta.

How come she never noticed before? She's talked to Violetta, and she had stared at her eyes. But there's a difference. A big one.

Before the accident occurred, Violetta was a like a whole different person. There was something peculiar in the way she looked at her. It was not the color of her eyes, but something in the look of it. She couldn't explain it, but she was positive that something was altered.

"So, do you remember?"

Mara looked in Ezra's eyes and searched for answers. Is it possible that a person's eyes could change that way?

"Yes."

"You were the one who stopped the truck."

Is it just me, or was their relief in his voice?

"Excuse me?"

"How do you think you're still alive? You were too late. The truck was going too fast. Even if it did actually stop, you two would still have been hit. It was your doing that stopped the truck."

Mara knew what Ezra said was true. She was there herself. She knew all along that they were going to get hit, but she still tried to save Violetta. The truck was too fast.

There's no point in arguing about it anymore.

Oh well. Might as well give in.

"So that's my power? I can make things move or stop?"

"Maybe, but we can't be sure. Your power is still unidentified. And besides, I doubt it."

"I don't understand."

"Its not your only power. I can't read your mind."

"So that's your power? You can read minds?"

"Yes, I can read anyone's mind within 20 miles. Except yours."

"Why only me?"

"I don't know. But we'll figure it out once we get to Cyrena."

"What do you mean by 'we'?"

"I mean it like I've said it. We're going to Cyrena, as soon as possible."

"Who told you that I'm coming with you? I can't just leave my family. My life is here in Guinevere."

"You'll lose your powers if you don't get trained properly."

"I don't care. It's not like I asked to have this powers in the first place. I'm already contented with the life I have now. I don't need powers."

"My orders are to take you with me to Cyrena, Mara, and I'm not leaving until I've finished my task."

"Well, then, I suggest you already go house hunting, because I am not leaving, and that's final."

Mara and Ezra were glaring at each other, and neither of them were willing to lose. Mara was already decided that she would not leave Guinevere, and Ezra was determined as ever to take Mara with him to Cyrena. Neither of them was willing to lose.

Funny, five minutes ago I thought he was cute, now I just want to kill him.

Ezra knew that Mara was very stubborn, but he would not leave Canada without her. Its not about the task anymore, it became more like a competition. A matter of pride. He never lost. And he never would.

He would just have to show her that if she was stubborn, then he's tenfold more stubborn than she was.

"Think about it Mara. You'll be able to live in a huge castle there. Study at Levon Academy. Have a room as big your house here in Canada. Everything will be yours, just come with me."

"Levon Academy?"

Jackpot. So she wants to study at Levon Academy, huh? Perfect.

"Yes, Mara. Levon Academy. And not only that. After you finish high school, you'll study at Deuel University, and you can take any course you want."

"I don't need those, Ezra. I already told you, I'm perfectly happy here. I won't leave Guinevere, okay? I love this town."

Who are you kidding? You sound like you just forced the words out of your mouth. And why can't you look directly at my eyes? What's the problem? Maybe you're lying.

Ezra forced himself to not laugh out loud. He knew it would make the situation worse. But still, Mara was so obvious.

"I didn't know you're that selfish Mara. I'm greatly disappointed."

"What do you mean?"

"Don't you see? Once you get to Cyrena, you'll be rich. You'll be able to afford your brother's tuition fee, and he can even transfer to the best university here in Canada. Your mother will get promoted, and she won't have to tire herself from working anymore. You can even afford to buy a new house and a new car. Your brother's second-hand car is getting pretty rusty."

Mara was thoroughly confused. All the things that Ezra said were true. Her mother worked day and night for them, and she barely got enough sleep or rest. She was always working. And her brother always wished for a new car. He got his car from his own salary from working part time as a waiter. He saved his salary every month. He wouldn't even buy himself snacks. And their house was getting pretty small for the three of them, especially since she and her brother was growing so fast. Brian always complained that he had to duck to fit in the door of his room.

Mara analyzed everything carefully. She had nothing to lose and everything to gain. Of course, she would get homesick, but she could always call home and talk to them on the internet. She could always write to her friends. Nothing was stopping her from going.

"A few questions first before I decide, Ezra. First, why can't I just bring my family with us. I don't think it will be a very big inconvenience."

Good. She's considering it.

"That's against the rules, Mara. The royal castle's inhabitants all have magical abilities. They will only get in the way."

"Then how about what you said? That I'll become rich if I go with you?"

"You have royal blood, Mara. You're a descendant of the Queen. You're basically a princess. And being a princess means having a big fat bank account."

"Then that means my family has royal blood too, right?"

"Technically, yes. But they still can't come because, as I told you before, they'll only get in the way. They don't have powers, Mara."

"Then how about my mother's promotion?"

"A little recommendation from the Queen will easily fix that."

"How long do I have to stay in Cyrena?"

"For good, Mara. All members have the responsibility of passing down their knowledge to the next generation. The castle will be your residence for the rest of your life."

"Then I'll never get to see my family again?!"

"No, of course not. You'll go home for two months in the summer vacation."

Mara felt like a thorn stuck in her throat finally got out. She was starting to like the idea of living in the castle as a princess. Who wouldn't? Of course, Mara loved her house, but she has lived there since birth and the thought of traveling and living in a huge castle was so exciting and thrilling. Anyone in their right mind would never refuse such an offer.

If I accept it, I would not only help myself but also my family. If I refuse, I'll never know what would have happened to me. I'll always ask myself "If I accepted what would have happened to me?" and I'll never get an opportunity like this again. This is a once in a lifetime chance. I don't see why I should turn it down.

"But even if I agree, my mom will never allow me to live in a different country."

"Don't worry about it. Leave it to me. I'll take care of it."

"How?"

"I have my ways."

Mara noticed that the angry and frightening Ezra was gone. His old self returned, and his eyes gave more warmth than they used to. His scowl was replaced with a smile.

Mara stared at Ezra's eyes, with hopes that she would find that he was lying or that everything that he said was a joke. But she found nothing of the sort. All she saw was relief.

"When are we leaving?"

"In five days."

"What?! That's too fast! Can't we stay for at least two weeks?"

"We have no time to lose Mara. We need to get there as soon as possible."

"How come? What's the rush?"

"You need to go training as soon as possible. We don't know when you'll lose it."

"But its too fast!"

"I'm sorry, but it can't be helped. You'll just have to make the most of it."

Mara's eyelids suddenly felt heavy. She realized that this talk with Ezra drained all of her energy. She never felt as sleepy as this before.

"Sleepy now, huh?"

"You guessed that much?"

"You sound like you're drunk."

"Don't laugh at me."

"And why not?"

"I have powers right? I'll use them against you. I'll make sure of that."

"Are you threatening me?"

"More or less."

They sound like old friends, teasing and laughing at each other like that. Its hard to think that minutes ago they were glaring at each other.

"Can I ask you something before you go to sleep?"

"I'll think about it."

"Seriously. And its not really a hard question anyway."

"Fine. But if my nose bleeds or I get into another coma because of this, its all your fault."

"I doubt it."

"Well, shoot."

"Do you remember of dreaming anything while you were in a coma?"

"Now that I think about it . . . "

Mara was lost in deep thought. She'd never thought about it until Ezra asked. What did she dream about?

Mara caught glimpses of a light . . . and it was beneath her . . . and it seemed like she was falling . . . to the light . . . and then . . .

Nothing. She couldn't remember anything else. It was like finding yourself in a dead end.

"Do you remember anything?"

Ezra's voice brought Mara back to the present. Mara was too focused on thinking about her dream that she forgot that Ezra was in the room for the second time that night.

"All I remember is that there's a light, a very bright light, beneath me. It was like I was falling towards it. And then, nothing. I can't remember anything else."

"Isn't there supposed to be a tunnel of some sort?"

"You seriously believe in those things?"

Ezra decided that humoring Mara will be better than telling her that she believed the wrong things. It would probably lead to another competition.

"Not really. But that's the common story."

"I guess. But there's something strange."

"What is it?"

"When I tried to think about my dream while I was in a coma, I felt warm and safe. And happy."

"ONCE UPON A TIME THERE LIVED A HAPPY AND CONTENTED QUEEN IN HER PALACE."
Mara liked hearing Ezra's voice. It was so relaxing. Like hearing the splash of the waves in the ocean. Or hearing the rustle of the leaves. It made Mara feel safe. And he though he's telling a fairy tale, Ezra still seems so manly. Mara could almost sigh.

"He is so cute!!!"

"She had many jewels and servants. Her subjects respected her authority. That's what made the Queen so happy.

"It so happens that that the Queen had an only daughter. The Princess was a shy beautiful little girl. Everybody loved her.

"When the Princess grew up into a fine young lady, she fell in love with one of the Queen's knights. Of course, this was forbidden. Their love had to be kept a secret."

Instead of feeling sleepy, Mara became wide awake because of the story. She was anxious to know what's going to happen. Or maybe because Ezra's voice had this effect on her. The only thing she knew for sure is that she's not going to sleep anytime soon.

"Sleepy yet?"

"No, continue the story. I like to know what happens next."

"One night, when the Princess sneaked out of the palace to meet her Knight, someone had seen them. That person immediately went to the Queen expecting a reward for his information. Of course, he was given plenty of that.

"Once the Queen heard of her daughter's affair, she was furious. She demanded that the Knight be brought to her at once.

"The Queen told the Knight that he was no good for the Princess. The Knight explained how true and pure his love is for the Princess, but the Queen would not hear any of it. She wanted him to leave her daughter, but the Knight's true love would not let him leave the Princess he so dearly loved.

"The Queen was enraged. She would never let her only daughter marry a common knight. He could never give the Princess the the comfort and riches she so rightly deserved. She planned a bright future for her daughter. There were many princes from other kingdoms who seek her hand. The Queen decided to take drastic measures.

"'You have three little sisters, am I right, my Knight? I know that you're the only one who supports them, since your parents died five years ago. How would it be if you suddenly disappear? I'm sure no one would keep them, since you have no relations left. Your younger sisters will be sold as slaves. And I believe you have a sister old enough to be of service to the men of this kingdom. Now, how would you like that, my Knight?' the Queen threatened the Knight, and she was most pleased with his reply.

"'As you wish, my Queen. Me and my sisters will be out of the kingdom as soon as the sun rises tomorrow.'

"'Very good, my Knight. You will be escorted as far as to the gates of the kingdom. You will also be provided with whatever you will need in your journey.'

"Still not sleepy?"

"You're stopping at the most exciting part! Continue!"

Ezra chuckled. Mara found the sound of his voice beautiful. She was instantly captivated.

"Once the Princess heard that her Knight had left the kingdom for good, she was heartbroken. She refused to eat her meals. The Queen wasn't the least bit alarmed though. She knew that the Princess would soon be tired of being starved. How wrong she was.

"The Princess didn't go out of her chamber for several days. She ate very little. Now, the Queen was distraught. Even though she was cruel, she was still a mother. All mothers love their children, or so they say.

"So, what do you think will happen next? Any guesses?"

"Hmmmm . . . I think there are only two options that the Queen can possibly make. First, is to call for the Knight, so the Princess and him can live happily ever after. But it sounds too easy, don't you think? So I'm more into the second option, which is to make the Princess hate the Knight. Girls move on more easily with hatred. Did I get it right?"

Ezra relied with a smile. Mara was dazzled. She could feel herself melting. She just hoped Ezra doesn't notice.

"Good guesses. But none of them came even close.

"The Knight cannot forget about the Princess. He entrusted his sisters to his close friend in the neighboring kingdom and told him that if, somehow, something happened to him and he could not return, that he should take care of his sisters.

"The Knight sneaked into the castle at night and into the Princess' chamber. He asked her if she would go with him. They will go to the neighboring kingdom and hide. The Princess agreed to at once. They were soon off.

"The soldiers saw them on their way outside the kingdom. They thought that the Princess was being kidnapped. The soldiers chased the pair and in no time they were surrounded. The Princess was taken from the Knight, and he was killed before her very eyes.

"The Princess was in shock. She could not accept the fact that her beloved knight was dead. She won't stop crying. She won't eat. She won't talk to anyone. She only stared into space, and there was always a blank look in her once alive eyes.

"After a few weeks, it was discovered that the Princess was pregnant. When the Princess was informed of her condition, she came back to life. She started smiling again. She ate her meals and got out of her room. She was slowly returning back to normal. The Queen was so pleased that she decided that she'll let the child be born even though its father was only a common knight.

"Rumors about the Princess was spreading throughout the kingdom. She was pregnant, yet the Princess was not married. It was giving the royal family a bad image.

"The Queen betrothed the Princess to a Prince of a neighboring kingdom at once. The Princess did not even know her fiancee, but she still agreed because she wanted her child to grow up with a father. In a few weeks time, they were married.

"Many months have passed. The Princess left her kingdom and lived at her husband's kingdom. The Prince was kind and gentle, and he loved the Princess dearly. The Princess could not love the Prince as much as she loved the father of her child, but she loved him like a dear friend. In those months, they lived happily and contentedly.

"The Princess finally gave birth to a little baby girl. She was named Catherine.

"The baby was loved by everyone, and she was the symbol of unity of the two kingdoms. Catherine will be the Queen of those two kingdoms when she comes of age. She was always guarded by several royal guards and knights.

"When the Princess was a child, the Queen ordered the family to visit her. The royal family inclined, and soon, they were off.

"The Queen was ecstatic when she saw her granddaughter. She was very fond of the little girl. When it was time to leave, the Queen cried because she will be departed from her sweet little granddaughter. The Princess did not have the heart to take Catherine away from her grandmother, so she and her husband left for the other kingdom without their daughter.

"Unfortunately, while traveling, the carriage that the Princess and the Prince was riding accidentally fell of a cliff. They both died.

"The two kingdoms were devastated. There was no heir left to the throne except for Catherine, but she was still a child. So it was ordained that Catherine will be the next Queen as soon as she reaches her sixteenth birthday.

"At fourteen years old, Catherine was already a fine young lady. She was matured for her age. At this young age, she already helped managing the two kingdoms. She was loved by all of her people.

"One morning, when the Queen went to her granddaughter's chamber to wake her up, which she does every day, she found the door locked. This was the first time Catherine locked her door. When the door was opened, the found the window wide open. Catherine's bed was empty.

"All the servants were ordered to search every single room of the castle for the Princess, but she cannot be found. All of the soldiers and knights rummaged every kingdom that Catherine can possibly reach, but she was nowhere to be found. The Queen was heartbroken. All of the people of the kingdom mourned for their lost princess.

"Two years has passed since Catherine's disappearance. In those two years, the Queen barely said a word and never permitted herself to smile. In those times, witches and dark magic were widespread all over the kingdoms, and the Queen focused all her anger on hunting for them. Once proved to be practicing any form of magic, you will be tortured or burned at the stakes. Hundreds of assumed witches and wizards were killed.

"In her sixteenth birthday, Catherine finally returned at the Queen's palace. The Queen was overjoyed. For three days after her arrival, there were feasts in the two kingdoms.

"When asked what happened, Catherine only says she could not remember. She acted like nothing ever happened. She was as sweet and kind as ever.

"Catherine's replacing the Queen and ruling the two kingdoms was being held trial by the officials of the kingdom. It was preordained that she will be the Queen when she reached sixteen, but she was gone for two years. It was finally decided that she will get the throne at her eighteenth birthday.

"One night, the Queen heard Catherine talking in her room. She couldn't understand the words, but she was sure that it was her granddaughter speaking. She'll recognize her voice anywhere.

"The Queen entered Catherine's room slowly in order to make no noise. If its someone with a bad intention towards Catherine, then she wants to have the element if surprise with her. She hasn't expected to be the one surprised."

Silence.

"What?"

"So, aren't you sleepy yet?"

"You're stopping at the most exciting part again!"

Ezra smiled one of his dazzling smiles again. Mara was sure she was hyperventilating.

"You look more beautiful when you're angry."

Mara blushed ten shades of red. It was dark, but not dark enough for Ezra not to see her flaming cheeks. She could even hear her own heart beating hard. But for some reason, she couldn't take her eyes away from Ezra's. There was something in those eyes that was so captivating. Maybe because its the most unusual shade of sapphire that Mara has ever seen. Also the most beautiful.

They remained staring into each other's eyes for a long time, slthough for both of them it seemed only seconds have passed.

"Do you want me to continue?"

"Of course. Its a beautiful story."

"Well then, listen carefully.

"When the Queen entered Princess Catherine's room, she saw the most unexpected sight.

"The Princess was wearing a long black cloak, and there were cards in front of her, and they were floating. She was chanting spells. It was a ritual she was performing. There was no mistaking it.

"The Queen was hysterical. For the first time, she lost her composure. Catherine was her only granddaughter, now who will inherit the throne? The Queen demanded to know what was going on, and when Catherine replied, she was cold and emotionless. She lost the sweet and gentle tone of her voice. She was a whole different person.

"'Why, Grandmother, don't you know what this is? I would have thought that with the hundreds of witches that was burned in the stakes, you would know the difference of witchcraft from those not. Yes, my Queen, I am performing magic, and I am not ashamed of it.'

"'How dare you! You're going to be the next Queen! Royalty does not practice dark magic! This is an outrage!'

"'No, how dare you Grandmother! How dare you kill hundreds of innocent people! How dare you take their parents away from those children! You have no right, Grandmother! You are not the one to determine their fate!'

"'I am the Queen, Catherine. I have every right to do those. As for you, you have no right to answer back to me!'

"'You are not God, Grandmother.'

"'Don't you call me Grandmother! I am disgusted with you! I never want to see your face again! Get out! get out of my sight! NOW!'

"'As you wish, my Queen. But remember I will return, and when I did, you will regret that you even let me born in this world.'

"Many years have passed. The people did not forget their princess. They were never told the reason of Catherine's departure, only that she had to leave.

"The Queen was growing old and weak. She could not continue being the head of her kingdom any longer. The officials were expecting that Catherine would soon come back to take her throne, since they also did not know the reason for her sudden departure. But years had gone by, and yet there was still no Catherine. So it was decided that the Queen's nephew would be the new ruler of the kingdom when the time comes.

"There was a ball for the Queen's birthday. All the important people of all of the kingdoms were invited.

"All of the guests were having a very good time. The castle was decorated splendidly. Red and gold curtains were in every window. Bejeweled chandeliers filled the ceiling. Roses were in every table, intoxicating the guests with its scent.

"The door of the grand hall suddenly opened. A figure cloaked in black emerged. It moved noiselessly. Everything the figure passed turned as still as a statue. Finally, it reached its destination.

"The figure was now in front of the Queen. It let its hood fall, and when it did, Catherine's face showed.

"The Queen was not the least bit surprised by her appearance. If she was, she did not show it.

"Catherine returned to take her throne. Of course, the Queen did not let her. When Catherine saw that she will never oblige, she decided to take desperate measures.

"'If that is what you decide, Grandmother. Your descendants will pay for your mistake!'

"With that, Catherine cursed the Queen's entire bloodline to possess dark magic, to be passed on to all the generations that will follow.

"With the gust of the wind, she was gone.

"The party continued as if nothing happened. Music and laughter can be heard from all sides of the room. But if you base it on the Queen's face, it could've been a funeral.

"The symbol of a curse-bearer was that a person had a triangle birthmark on his/her left palm. The Queen had it. And so did her nephew. The Queen was so ashamed that it was ordered that this will be kept top secret.

"The powers they had were extraordinary. The Queen could consume darkness. Her nephew could summon any object at will.

"Nothing was heard of Catherine after that event. The Queen researched on how to remove the curse, but every book about dark magic has been burned.

"The new King enjoyed his powers quite well. But in respect to the Queen's wishes, their powers were kept a secret. Even after generations, it was still practiced."

"Is that the end?"

"Yes. Did you like it?"

"Oh, of course. It was very entertaining. But I'm awake now more than ever, so you failed. But that's alright. Anyway, I have a question."

"Sure, what is it?"

"You said that the story came from your family. So, do you have a triangle-shaped birthmark on your left palm?"

"Oh, yes, of course. Here it is."

Ezra showed Mara his left palm and there it was, a triangle-shaped birthmark. Mara was greatly impressed.

"Wow! That is so cool! Is the story true then?"

"I've always believed in them."

"You're a really good storyteller."

"Thank you, Mara. I'm glad you enjoyed it."

"I should be the one saying thank you. It was really great, Ezra."

"No problem, but can I ask a little favor?"

"Sure. What is it?"

"Can you look at your left palm?"

"Are you implying that I'm a descendant of the Queen?"

"Humor me."

"Fine, Ezra. As thanks for tonight."

Mara raised her left hand and looked at her palm.

There it was.

A Triangle-shaped Birthmark.

MARA OPENED HER EYES.

The first thing she saw was light. A blinding light. It made Mara’s eyes sting and water. But for some reason, she couldn’t close her eyes.

Where am I?

Mara forced her mind to remember, but it seemed blank. She didn’t know what day it was, what time it was, or where she was. Mara willed her head to move, so that she might find a clue to her location, but it felt like it weighed a hundred tons. She tried to move her arms and legs too, but her efforts were wasted. They were all numb.

And her head. Oh, it just hurt. Maybe her heart got transferred to her head, because it was beating. And it stung. And was there a bee in her ears? It was buzzing. And that light really was irritating. It was killing her.

“Mara?”

A voice. She heard that voice before somewhere. The voice seemed to belong to a woman. It sounded caring and nice. And warm. It made her heavy mind a little lighter. She could raise it a little bit now. Where was the voice coming from?

She managed to scan the room she was in. There were white walls, and monitors of all kinds surrounded her. So she was in a hospital. But why? Was there an accident that she couldn’t even remember?

“Mara!”

She was hugged by someone tightly. And something wet touched her cheeks. Tears.

Why is this person crying?

When she was released from the hug, Mara finally saw its face. Her eyes were unfocused, and she couldn’t see who was in front of her. All she could see was a faint outline, and then, slowly, he eyes focused and the image became clear. The figure in front of her had long black hair, dark eyes, a little pointy nose, and small lips. It was her mother! How could she have forgotten her own mother?

And then memories of her mother suddenly flooded her mind. Like they have been forgotten for a long time.

A male voice suddenly joined. It was deep, but a little hoarse. It was unmistakably her brother’s. Now she remembered.

“Mo . . . Mom? Bri . . . Bria . . . Brian?”

Speaking was like a foreign activity. Her voice was hoarse. Her throat was burning. It hurt even just to speak. The voice didn’t even seem to belong to her.

What happened?

Then, a doctor came in, and was surprised to see his patient awake. He should have been called at once if the patient showed any peculiar signs, for the better or for the worse. Well, at least his patient was awake. And she looked well. For a doctor like him, that was all that mattered.

“Ms. Evans, I’m glad to see you’re finally awake.”

“Thank you.”

The doctor then checked her vitals, but Mara was oblivious to everything. She was racking her brain for some answers.

How the hell did I end up in a hospital?

The doctor must be finished in whatever he was doing, since he stopped hovering around her. He then faced Mara’s family.

“She seems good. Just maybe after a few tests and then if no problems are detected, she can go after a day or two of rest.”

“Really, doctor? I’m so happy!”

“Yes Mrs. Evans. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have other patients waiting for me.”

Mara let herself survey the room she was in. She noticed that there are two people in the room she didn’t know, if her memory serves her right, which already failed her big time. One was a raven-haired boy with glasses, and a little girl with blonde hair. She seemed to know the girl form somewhere, but she couldn’t put her finger on it.

“Honey, are you alright?”

“I think so, Mom. Why are you here?”

Aimee looked offended and hurt. She had to be there, naturally. Did she expect anything less?

“Of course I’m here, Mara. I’m your mother.”

“No, I mean, why are you here in Guinevere? Aren’t you supposed to be in a seminar in Japan?”

“Dear, I can’t just be in Japan while you’re here in a coma.”

“I was in a coma?!”

“Yes, sweetheart. For three and a half days, to be exact.”

Mara was speechless. It took sometime before the thought sink in.

A coma?! I was in a coma?! My God! For how long? How? Why can’t I remember anything?

“How?”

“You were trying to save a girl from a truck. You hit your head in a post.”

“A truck? What truck?”

Mara was starting to get dizzy. Her head was throbbing. It was like that her head refused to process any of the information given to her. She was starting to get a very bad head ache. She just wanted to rest. To stop thinking.

“Don’t you remember any of it?”

“Of course I don’t! Why do you think I would be asking?!”

Mara was surprised at her own words. She spoke without thinking. She never intended to say those. Especially not to her own mother. She knew she was just concerned for her own well-being. She didn’t mean to bombard her with questions.

“Mom, I’m sorry. I really am. I’m just confused right now. I’m really sorry. It’s just that my head is throbbing and I have absolutely no idea how I got in this situation. I’m so sorry, Mom.”

“It’s alright sweetheart. I know how you feel. Do you want me to call the doctor? Do you want some medicine for your head?”

“No thanks, Mom. I just want to sleep.”

“Sure, my dear. I’ll just be here by your side. Sweet Dreams.”

Mara closed her eyes and prepared to slip into oblivion once more. Just as she was drifting to sleep, she heard her brother’s voice.

“Be sure to wake up soon this time, sis.”

“Promise.”

And then she floated into the deep waters of a dreamless sleep.

***********

Ezra was amused.

He just saw Mara Evans wake up. He was actually surprised at this. It had been a long time since he was been last surprised. It seemed almost new to him.

But what amused him most was her temper. He thought she was as sweet as her face.

Such temper coming from an angel. How Ironic.

Ezra had to admit, Mara Evans was beautiful. Not the supermodel or Hollywood actress kind, but she had an air of innocence around her. Her chocolate-brown eyes gave a radiant glow to the room. The contrast of her dark hair and her eyes was dazzling.

But it would have been better if they were sapphire rather than brown.

Ezra realized at once that Mara was nothing like his sister. It was not just the eye color, but everything else about her. For one thing, Keziah never lost her temper. She was always calm and sweet. Keziah was the perfect example of an angel in the flesh. Maybe that was why God took her so fast. He was running out of angels.

Ezra could plainly see that Mara was very different from what he had expected. Probably because he expected her to be every bit like Keziah, but what astonished him more was that he wasn’t the least bit disappointed. He had known from the very start that she was something else, based from Brian’s way of thinking about her, but he still hoped that she was like his sister. Maybe that would bring back his happiness. He hated to acknowledge it, but he missed being happy.

Of course, Ezra was relived that Mara finally woke up. The sooner he could talk to her, the better.

She seemed to have forgotten about the accident. He hoped it was only temporary amnesia. It wouldn’t help if he had to explain the accident to her. Surely, she wouldn’t believe him. She needed to see it with her own eyes. It would have been easy if he could read Mara’s mind. He would just tell her exactly what she was thinking at the moment. Judging from what he just witnessed, she wasn’t the type of person easily convinced. He needed to think of another way to explain it to her.

Well, the only thing he could do was wait.

**********

Mara woke up after a few hours. She seemed to be in a good mood for a change.

Ezra and Violetta were finally introduced to her. When Mara was acquainted with Ezra, she seemed to like him. She even permitted herself to talk to him a bit. She was lively and warm, very much like Keziah. They had the same smile too. The smile that pained Ezra’s heart when he saw it. Ezra was certain that even though that smile caused him pain, he would do the best he could to see it as often as possible.

But when she was introduced to Violetta, she froze.

For the first time, Violetta seemed to be in the real world. She looked directly at Mara’s eyes.

And she did the thing that surprised all of them, Ezra himself included. She smiled. For the others, it was a pleasant surprise, but not exactly a shock. But for Ezra, it certainly was. In two years of knowing her, he never saw the girl smile. She never even thought of smiling.

Her smile was contagious. In no time Mara was grinning from ear to ear. Ezra thought his heart would stop.

“My name is Violetta.”

The girl’s voice was melodious and soothing. Like music.

‘Hi Violetta! I’m Mara.”

The girl seemed reluctant at first, but after a few minutes she climbed at Mara’s bed and sat next to Mara. Violetta took Mara’s hand in her tiny ones and said:

“Thank you.”

“For what?”

“For saving my life.”

It was clearly seen that Mara was deeply touched. Ezra was sure of it even though he couldn’t read her mind. She was blushing, and the smile she was wearing appeared to have been fixed in her face. Ezra couldn’t help noticing that Mara looked even better when she blushed. Ezra couldn’t remember the last time Keziah blushed. All he could recall were her pale cheeks while her life was slowly slipping through her fingers. Why couldn’t he remember her last blush?

“You’re Welcome, Violetta. It was an honor.”

***********

Later that day, the doctor arrived and examined Mara. He made Mara tell him her day before the accident happened, in full detail. Mara was quite embarrassed on telling that she was given her first detention, especially to her brother. He was always strict when it came to her grades. Mara would never admit it, but she owed Brian her honors and awards. It was because of him that she persisted on being at the top. She was sure that he would explode. But when she told them about it, he didn’t seem the least bit bothered.

Is Brian sick or something?

The doctor informed them that Mara has Selective Temporary Amnesia. It was only the accident that she forgot. However, the doctor assured her that she would remember it in a few days, a month at most.

That night, Ezra and Violetta stayed at the hospital. Violetta insisted, or for a closer term, demanded, that they stayed with Mara. Ezra didn’t complain. Mara was relieved that he didn’t. She kinda liked Ezra. He was handsome and charming.

Mara was troubled that Ezra would have to sleep at the couch. There were only two bedrooms, and Brian refused to sleep next to their mother. Mara couldn’t see the sense of it. Brian was Aimee’s son, so what’s wrong with sleeping at the same bed? Brian was the demanding one. Aimee was glad to sleep next to her son, like the old times, when Brian was only a kid. Brian volunteered to sleep at home, but like a real gentleman, Ezra offered to sleep at the couch. How kind.

Who could help liking a guy like Ezra?

Well, she was only a girl after all.

***********

Mara woke up with a gasp.

That nightmare again.

She was being haunted again by the nightmare she had been having since her fourteenth birthday two weeks ago.

Mara looked around once she had her normal breathing back. The lights were all turned off, but the window was open, and the full moon could be seen clearly. She could see Violetta beside her, still asleep. Mara was relieved she didn’t wake the girl up.

“Are you all right?”

It seemed that she had woken Ezra up. He sounded worried. He walked from the sofa, which was where he was sleeping, and sat beside her.

“I’m really sorry that I woke you up.”

“No, it’s alright. I was still awake.”

Mara became calm as soon as she heard Ezra’s voice, though she had no idea why.

“Want me to tell you a story?”

“What story?”

“Just some random fairy tale. Actually, it originated from my family. It may lull you to sleep.”

“Sure, I would love to hear it.”

Mara was sure that as long as it was Ezra who was talking, it didn’t matter if he wanted to tell her the history of American Revolution.

Ezra’s voice then filled the air, telling the story that started more than a hundred years ago.

"COME BACK TO MOMMY, MY LITTLE GIRL. MOMMY NEEDS YOU."
Aimee was beside her daughter's hospital bed, holding her hand. It had only been hours since she arrived at the hospital, but she could barely bear the sight of her daughter's almost lifeless form. She could only imagine what her son must have gone through.

Aimee could almost smell the air of death hanging heavily about her daughter. Although she could not let herself think such ugly and hopeless thoughts, it could not be dismissed easily. It was there: in the white sheets, in Mara’s hair, in her pale cheeks, in the ECG, in Aimee’s mind and soul, everywhere. Aimee wondered how the world could go on without Mara. Won’t time stop? Would the snow still fall like it did now, even with the disappearance of a girl who used to love it and squeal whenever it started falling? Was it really like that? Won’t it even recognize its loss?

Brian was asleep at the next room. She had been informed that the one that Mara saved was extremely rich. That's how Mara was provided with the presidential room. It was very cozy, with a plasma TV, large sofas, and two bedrooms with separate bathrooms. But none of it could ease her tension.

If Mara knew that she slept in a presidential room, she would have jumped with joy. She always loved fancy things. When she was just a little girl, she always told me that she’ll get rich when she grows up and that she’ll buy a castle for me and her brother. I’ve always felt guilty that I couldn’t afford everything she wanted, and that she had to dream of it instead of experiencing it herself. Of course, I couldn’t possibly afford a castle, but I would have bought a bigger house than our house no. If Laurence was still alive, we could have managed to do it.

Mara was once full of life. She was always active and cheerful. She was full of spirit and vigor. It was very hard to accept the fact that the girl lying in front of her was the same girl that kissed her goodbye in the airport a week ago.

Aimee remembered clearly the last memory of Mara awake. It was in the airport, and her children were saying goodbye to her. It was evident that Mara wished she didn’t have to go, it was shown clearly in her eyes. But she never even mentioned it. Aimee never heard a single complaint. She rarely had time for her children. Of that, she was very guilty, but it couldn’t be helped. She had to, or Brian wouldn’t graduate college. Mara knew it, but knowing is very different from feeling. Mara couldn’t help feeling sad. And Aimee knew that too.

Aimee deeply regretted that she left her children alone. If she hadn't then this wouldn't have happened. If Laurence was alive, Aimee was sure that he would know what to do. He was always calm and collected even when facing the biggest problems. Aimee could almost hear him telling her that she had to be strong. That Mara would wake up. That she had to believe.

Laurence. Her deceased husband. Just the mention of his name gave her a bittersweet feeling. Just the thought of him opened up wounds that were never healed, and never would be. Aimee’s heart would always be bruised. Her husband’s death was like a nightmare forever etched in her memory. He was suddenly taken from his family, without even a single decent goodbye. It hurt too much. And worse, his body was never found. He didn’t even have a grave. It was like he just left and never returned. Everyday Aimee hoped that he would knock in the door and tell her “I’m home.” the same way he always did before. But after nine years of waiting, he never returned.

Aimee had never been religious, but she found herself praying to God to spare her child. She was clinging to her faith. God would save Mara. Faith was all that was needed.

If Mara would also be taken from her, she would go insane. The pain would be too much for one heart to bear. She would do anything to make her daughter wake up. Anything.

Aimee knelt down and prayed to God once more.

**********

Brian woke up to the deafening sound of the ECG.

Brian had always been frightened at that machine. It was like that thing was telling him that his sister's life was numbered. That it would not last. That sooner or later, his sister's heart would stop beating.

Brian felt miserable. He haven’t felt like this since his father’s death nine years ago. He swore that he would never let someone he loved die, and yet, here he was, in a hospital room, where his sister is in a bed only a room away, in a coma. Maybe Death is mocking him, thinking he’s someone he could play jokes with. And if Death would ask him, he would probably tell him it wasn’t the least bit funny.

Brian got out of his room and was surprised to see his mother kneeling down beside his sister's bed, praying. Their mother had never been a very religious woman. He had never even heard her mention the word God. Let alone pray.

But he shouldn't really be surprised. If any god could save his sister, then he would be worshiped without hesitation. Anything to save his sister.

The sight of Aimee made Brian feel even more miserable. If Mara died, what would happen to his mother? After his father’s death, Aimee had never been the same. The last time he saw her show a genuine smile was when they were in the airport to see his father off. Laurence was an engineer and he was going to California because of a contract. His father was about to leave then, and his mother was strangely quiet. And when Laurence was about to leave, she suddenly blurted out “I love you” out of the blue. His dad was surprised at this, and he hugged his wife and told her “I love you too”. He and Mara were also hugged, and then, he went away. And he never returned.

Brian sighed. It had been nearly four days and Mara was still not showing any signs of improvement. No twitch, or squeeze, or anything at all! He heard that this could go on for months, even years! He even heard of someone being in coma for ten years. Ten Whole Years! He knew he wouldn't be able to bear it if she goes on like this for days. He would go crazy if this goes on for years.

Well, maybe losing my sanity is not a bad idea after all.

Brian figured that he would eat something while thinking; maybe it would help him get his mind working. He still had to ponder on some things.

Brian was a third year college student in Guinevere University, where he took Architecture. If he continued to skip classes because of his sister, he would get dropped. They were absolutely not rich, and his mother was working extra hours just to afford his education. Architecture was not a cheap course. He even had to work part time just to add something to his tuition money.

It was not like he didn’t want to take care of his sister, but all the money would be put to waste if he just stopped attending his lessons. If he was the one earning the money, he wouldn’t care if he got dropped, but his mother's efforts would be for nothing.

Brian's head was aching. If he stayed with his sister, he would be putting his mother's efforts to waste. If he attended his classes, he would be betraying his sister.

Isn’t there any other way?

At this point, his head was throbbing. But if Mara was in a coma, she would never know, right? She would never even be aware if he was there or not.

Stupid, how can you even call yourself a brother?

He put his head in his hands and sighed. He would have to decide sooner or later. He already called his professors three days ago, but he knew for a fact that their sympathy wouldn’t last forever. It would even be a wonder if it'll last a week.

He already asked Ethen, his best buddy, for advice. He really shouldn’t have asked him, since he always answered so vaguely that you get even more confused than before you asked the question. But he was getting desperate. And guess what he told Brian? “Do what you think is right.” How helpful.

"Come on Mara, wake up! Don't you see how we've been without you? I promise I'll never tease you again, just wake up."

**********

Ezra was on his way to Mara's hospital room.

Of course, he took Violetta with him. He was never going to do the same mistake twice of leaving her alone. She just got into a trance too often. And besides, she was just a five year old kid. Even with her powers, she still needed a guardian.

But he never did leave her alone on purpose the day of the accident. They were searching Mara's school that time, and he was looking at every face to see if they were Mara. Her face was showed to him by Violetta. But there was something strange with the memory. It was too short for one thing, it was like it only lasted for three seconds, while the other memories lasted for almost five minutes, and then the memory was blurred. It was like looking at a reflection in water. Violetta’s memory wasn’t like that before. Princess Violetta was a gifted child. She had keen eyesight and a perfect memory. Ezra found the incident strange. The only image she managed to show Ezra was a girl with dark hair and brown eyes. Not very common here in Canada, but still hard to find. He tried to read each of their minds but none of them seemed to be thinking of her at the moment.

He must have been distracted, because by the time he turned around, Violetta was already gone.

Ezra would have never admitted it, but he panicked. If something ever happened to Violetta while in his care, he would be dead. Literally. She was the granddaughter of the Queen, for Pete's sake! He would be lucky if he only got shot. He would most probably be tortured then hanged.

Ezra told himself to calm down and read the people's minds so that he could follow her. She couldn’t have gone too far. And besides, a beautiful girl like Violetta was always easily noticed. People would easily remember her and think about her.

Of course, before he did, Ezra searched for her thoughts first. Nothing. You see, when Violetta was in a trance, she sometimes waited for someone to dream. She had a few favorites. While waiting for them, she put her thoughts in a void, in infinite nothingness. In that state Ezra couldn’t read her mind, because there was nothing to read.

Frustrated, Ezra let himself out of the school grounds. At first, it was fairly easy, because as expected, she was noticed by many people. Then the crowd started thinning, up to the point that nobody was in sight.

He decided to follow the path he was on, since that seemed to be where Violetta was heading. That was when he heard the truck driver's thoughts. It seemed that the brake won't work. And he was going to hit Violetta!

He ran. But by the time he arrived, it was already too late. But he managed to see everything.

Mara was running towards Violetta. She was in the middle of the road when he saw her, and he instantly knew that she would not make it. By the time she got to Violetta, the truck would already hit the both of them. It was going too fast.

And then, the truck stopped, but for only two seconds. But it was enough time for Mara to grab Violetta and jump to the other end of the road. If she ran instead, it would take too much time.

At the time when Mara jumped with Violetta, the truck already sped away, just as if it never stopped. Ezra knew for a fact that the brake did not work. It was Mara that stopped the truck.

And before he knew it, Mara was already on the ground, bleeding.

He was the one who called an ambulance and he made sure that Mara didn’t lose too much blood. Violetta had a few scratches, but she was fine.

Violetta seemed to wake up from her trance then. The first thing she saw was Mara, covered in blood. She was hysterical. It must have been traumatic for the child. But he managed to calm her down.

Ezra opened Mara's hospital room and was greeted by the sight of Mara's mother, Aimee Evans, praying. She seemed to be oblivious to his arrival. Ezra knew it was rude to interrupt a prayer, but somehow, he was bothered by the sight of her kneeling. It was pathetic, and he hated those most.

"Good Morning, Mrs. Evans."

Aimee turned around and saw Ezra. She stood and faced him. Even if Ezra couldn’t read her mind, he would know how heartbroken she was. It could be seen in her features. Black dull hair, wide sad black eyes, a little nose, and high pale cheekbones. Her posture was drooping.

"Who are you?"

"I'm Ezra FitzGerald, Ma'am. This is Violetta, the girl Mara saved from the truck. We're here to visit Mara."

Aimee stared at Violetta. She thought the exact same thing as her son when he first saw her. If Mara's sacrifice was worth it. Somehow, they both think not.

"Oh, well, sit down."

I and Violetta sat down at a nearby chair. Aimee did the same beside Mara and took her hand.

"We're terribly sorry this happened, Mrs. Evans."

"She still won't wake up."

"Don't worry Mrs. Evans. I know she'll pull through. From what I've seen, she's a strong and brave girl. And because it’s Mara, it will be all right."

"I hope you're right."

Then, Aimee's eyes widened. Ezra's too. He was taken by surprise. He didn't expect it to happen so soon. But, most of all, he was relieved.

Mara squeezed Aimee's hand.

**********

Mara was falling.

Not just falling, falling fast. Too fast for her liking too. If she could puke midair, she would have done it.

Mara could see it. She could see the ground.

I know this is going to happen. I knew it. I'm going to hit the ground. I should have just stayed with my father. Now what? I don't like to die again!

Mara closed her eyes and prayed that she won't hit the ground too hard.

Stupid. Of course it will be hard. You just jumped off a cliff. Idiot. Are you trying to be a daredevil? First, you jump in front of a truck and hit your head in a post, now you jumped off a cliff! How stupid can you get?

And then she realized that there was no ground, only water.

Great, it won't hurt!

But then, she realized a simple fact of her existence.

Oh, Jesus! I can't swim!

By then, she already splashed into the water, and then, there was light.

EZRA WAS IRRITATED.
No, that was an understatement. He was really frustrated. Why the hell couldn’t he read Mara's mind? Even if she was in a coma, he was pretty sure her mind was still working. So there was no explanation on why he couldn’t get through. He’d been in hospitals where there were patients in coma, and he could read their minds. All of them were fairly the same, darkness was everywhere for some, while for the others, they were in a tunnel where light was shining from the other end.

Sometimes he caught glimpses of what Mara was dreaming of. Once, he saw that she was looking at a city, but after two seconds, the image disappeared, and what was left was only a faint buzzing sound. Ezra felt like a kid in a toy store, feast your eyes in the toys, but don’t touch it. After the glimpses of Mara’s dream, Ezra wanted more. He never felt this interested in a person before.

Maybe Mara’s power is Force Field Generation.

But that was impossible. Then how did she manage to stop the truck? He was there when the accident occurred, and he saw with his own two eyes that Mara was the one who stopped the truck. He was sure of that. There were two kinds of Force Field Generation, Physical and Psychic. You could only possess one kind of it. It was not possible to possess both of it, or was it really impossible?

Ezra Fitzgerald was a member of The Royal Secret Society of Magic, or most commonly known as "The Magical Army". To be a part of this, of course you must possess magical abilities, and the royal blood must run through your veins.

Ezra was entrusted the task of taking Mara Evans to Cyrena, given to him by the Queen herself. The army was slowly growing over the years under the Queen's guidance. As of that time, The Magical Army had fourteen members, Mara being the fourteenth.

Mara would be taken to Chand Castle to train her powers. Without proper training, her powers might not improve. It might disappear completely in a couple of years. That was why retrieving members was one of the most important missions of the army. They were quite difficult to detect because their powers did not show often when untrained.

Ezra's power was mind reading. He could read any mind in a distance of 20 miles. Except Mara's, that is.

Mara was traced by her dreams. All of the members of the army too have been traced by means of their dreams. All members had the same dream and they could easily be traced by Violetta. Her powers provided her to know where the person was dreaming. That was how they find out a new member's residence. All of the members of the army would have this dream at a particular age when their powers will arise. It usually depended on the person. Ezra had the dream on his sixteenth birthday, two years ago.

Mara's power was still unidentified. By this time, they should have already been back to Cyrena. A member couldn’t be away for too long. His services were needed there.

This is not going as planned.

For their powers to arise the first time, it must be provoked. Ezra could remember the day he discovered his powers like it was just yesterday.

Ezra was a boy of sixteen at that time. Just eight months ago, his younger sister, Keziah, died of Leukemia. Keziah and Ezra were very close to each other. Ezra was angry at the world. He hated his parents, his friends, everybody. He wanted to be with his sister. Keziah was the sweetest and kindest girl in the world. She was only fourteen when Death took her in his arms. Before his sister’s death, he was cheerful, like all the boys of his age. But since Keziah died, he stopped doing anything altogether. He refused to leave his room, and he only ate when his mother begged him. After one month of isolation, his father begged him to live. He knelt before him and cried, and finally Ezra realized that Keziah would be sad if she saw their father like that. So, he lived.

But he stopped all his hobbies. If that thing would make him happy, then he would not do it. He was punishing himself. He never smiled nor laughed. He used to like playing soccer, playing video games, and drawing; but he stopped doing all of those things. Instead, he focused all his attention in his studies. It became his obsession.

The thing that Ezra hated most was everybody’s way of treating him. All of them pitied him. ‘Oh, poor Ezra. How dreadful.’ When he heard those things his blood boiled. He didn’t need their pity.

And that day was no exception.

Ezra noticed that someone was staring at him. He could feel it. It was like whoever's staring at him, it was boring a hole in his soul. It was getting to his nerves.

He turned around and saw a girl looking at him oddly. Like she was seeing something she didn’t like. Ezra caught her gaze and she looked away, obviously embarrassed that he caught her staring.

Then he heard her, like she was just beside him.

"I can't believe Ezra's gay. But that's what everyone's talking about. I guess he's just too good to be true."

Ezra couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Him?! Gay?! What the hell! Ezra could almost chuckle. How stupid. So he wasn’t pitied after all.

By then the teacher already entered, so there was no chance to make the girl know who she was dealing with.

When school day ended, Ezra finally realized how foolish he was. That girl would never attempt on saying those things out loud. And if she did, it was impossible that he heard her. She was at the other end of the room. It must be his mind playing tricks on him.

When he reached the school gates, he was stopped by a petite Chinese girl. She told him that he had powers. Ezra thought the girl had gone mad. But then, she suddenly disappeared in front of his eyes. Then after about ten seconds, she appeared again! Of course, he believed her after that.

The Chinese girl's name was Shin Tao. Her power was invisibility. And, like Violetta, hers was also a rare case. She could also make a thing she was in contact with invisible. Usually, people who had the powers of invisibility could only make themselves invisible. It became a problem too, since their clothes floated midair.

Ezra then discovered that his parents were also members of the magical army. He should have been angry at them for keeping a secret like that to them, but he wasn’t angry for that reason. He was angry because they did nothing for his sister. They knew magic yet they did nothing. They would have done something, anything! And the only reason they gave Ezra was because their magic could not heal. He then did a little investigating. He discovered that there were magic that could really heal; he saw a book about that at the library at the highest floor of the castle, only accessible to the Senior Army. But he had his own ways.

The real reason that his parents did not heal Keziah with magic was because that was considered as Dark Magic. Magic that could be performed were only those that you had and enhanced, but attempting to do magic not in your range of abilities was considered as Dark Magic. How ridiculous.

Of course, his competitive spirit and pride wouldn’t let himself get behind in his lessons in magic. Aside form his studies, magic also became an obsession for Ezra. It was a form of escape to all of his problems. With hard work, he managed to be the colonel in the army in two years, and since all of the magical army's members were talented and competitive, that was saying something.

And what kind of Colonel had loopholes in his powers?! What would the other members think of him?! Now, Ezra was furious. It was like running in circles. He kept getting back to this problem whatever he did.

Ezra got up and faced the window. He was in his hotel room, and of course they had the Presidential Suite. It was already one in the morning and Violetta's in her room sound asleep. The sight outside was refreshing. The contrast of the lights and the dark night sky was beautiful. It made him calm down.

It made him think of Keziah. The fact that Mara looked a lot like Keziah did not go unnoticed by Ezra. He would stare at Mara for hours and imagine that she had sapphire eyes instead of dark brown. He imagined that she liked to dance ballet, and that she had a collection of dolls in her room. Ezra imagined that she liked the color pink, and that she always woke up early just to see the sunrise.

If wishing was enough, then Keziah would have been alive right now. She would be in her room practicing for her next ballet competition. She would be in front of the mirror trying different hairstyles. If wishing really made things come true, then Ezra would be with his sister right now.

But it was never enough.

"DON'T LEAVE ME, MARA."
Brian was beside his sister's hospital bed, holding her hand. Mara had been in coma for three days now, and she was still not showing any signs of waking.

But Brian still didn’t lose hope. He knew she would wake up. He knew she would never leave him. At least, he hoped so.

Brian felt like he was being stabbed every time he looked at his sister. She looked so weak and fragile. Where was his sister that punched him and kicked him when he called her “klutz”, “monster”, or “tomboy”? Where was the girl that told him to be strong when he was almost willing to give up? Where was the schoolgirl that smiled like there’s no tomorrow? Where was the young lady that stood up for what she believed in even though no one was at her side? Where?

Brian hadn’t slept for days. He refused to leave his sister, even for a moment. He wanted to be there when she wakes up.

"It’s my entire fault. My entire fault. I'm sorry Mara. I'm so so sorry."

He blamed himself for what happened. He should have been by his sister's side; he should have fetched her from school. He should have been there when she needed him most. Yet, where was he? At home, watching T.V. Some kind of brother he was.

Brian became the father figure for Mara when their father, Laurence Evans, died in a plane crash nine years ago. Mara was only five at that time, and he was only thirteen. Their mother, Aimee, refused to tell Mara the truth. She was afraid that it will be too much for a five-year-old kid. The death of their father was never mentioned to her sister. Even though Mara did not know, she still had nightmares every night after their father’s death. She was crying and screaming out ‘Daddy!’ over and over again. In those nights Brian stayed by his sister’s side until she fell asleep.

Brian was the one who took care of Mara while she was growing up. He taught Mara her lessons and made sure that she did her best. Brian was proud to say that he was the one who contributed most to Mara’s discipline and intelligence. He made sure that she was advanced in her lessons, and that her grades are only As. He taught her to value her education the most. Their mother was always working, so she barely had time to teach her daughter, even though Aimee was a university professor. But Mara still loved Aimee just the same as any daughter would love their mother, possibly even more.

Aimee trusted Brian with Mara, because she believed in him. And what did he do? He let his sister alone at night and make herself a shield against a truck. How pathetic.

That night still haunted him.

It was half past seven in the evening. Brian was waiting for his sister to come home. It was her turn to cook dinner, so he could just sit around and watch T.V. Minutes later, the phone rang.

Must be Mara. If she's going to tell me that she can't cook dinner again, I won't let her!

"Hello, Evans Residence. Who's this?"

"Is this Mr. Brian Evans, Mara Evans' brother?"

"Yes it is. Who is this? What happened to my sister?"

"Your sister is in Guinevere General Hospital, Sir. She was caught in an accident. She seemed to have hit her head in a post while trying to save a child from a truck."

"I'll be right there."

Brian was terrified. The hospital was ten blocks away from their house, not more than a twenty minute ride in a car. In those twenty minutes, Brian never felt more afraid and helpless in his whole life.

Mara hit her head?! Oh my God, is she dead? My God, NO!!! This can’t be happening! No, no, no, this isn’t happening. This can’t be true. My God, No, I just, I can’t, my God! No, I have to be strong. Wait for me Mara, I’m coming.

When Brian finally reached the hospital, he was informed that his sister was in the Operating Room. He felt weak. He started trembling. Brian felt like his deepest fear was coming true. All of this years he was trying to protect his sister from being hurt in any way, and here he was, in front of the operating room where his sister was surrounded by doctors with surgical knives. The thought made Brian sick.

This is just a horrible nightmare. I'll wake up and I'll find my sister in her bed, safely tucked in.

But Brian did not believe a word of this.

How was he going to tell his mother about this? She would have a heart attack. Their mother, Aimee, was away for a week because of a seminar, and she entrusted Mara to him. This was his entire fault. All his. Tears started to fall.

How could he let this happen to his sister? His only sister, the one he loved more than anyone else in the world, she and his mother were his life and his happiness. If she ever died, Brian didn’t know what he would do.

"We're sorry this happened."

He looked up and saw a brunet boy, with pale skin and a pair of glasses. He was with a girl of about four or five years old, with silvery-blond hair and blue eyes. They were standing in front of him.

"Who are you?"

"I'm Ezra FitzGerald, and this is Violetta, a cousin of mine. She's the girl Mara saved from the truck."

Brian stared at the girl. This girl's life, in exchange for his sister's? No, it’s unfair. This girl couldn’t pay for her sister's life. Mara was full of hopes and dreams. Everybody loved Mara. No, this was not a fair exchange.

"We want to express our deepest gratitude to your sister. Of course, the cost of the surgery, the hospital fees and the medicine will be paid by Violetta's family. We know it is not enough, but we hope that it helps."

"If something happens to my sister, I swear to God, I’ll do anything to give her justice, whatever it takes."

Brian tried to sound threatening, but Ezra didn't show any signs of being affected by it.

"Don't worry, Brian. She'll make it. I assure you that."

That was three days ago. The surgery turned out fine, but she still hasn't showed any signs of improvement.

Mara's best friend, Cornelia, heard about the news and she never failed to visit since Mara's accident. She also brought her schoolmates along. They were all sincerely worried. Brian could see it in their eyes. Cornelia even cried when she first visited, and her in last visit, she looked like she was close to crying.

Mara and Cornelia had been best friends since they were toddlers. Brian always thought it ran in the family, since their great-grandparents had been the best of friends. He and Ethen, Cornelia’s older brother, were also best buddies. Like him, Ethen was protective of his little sister, but he never would be as protective as Brian. He never lost someone he loved. His family was still complete.

"See, Mara? Everybody loves you. Don't leave them. Don't leave me, Mara. Please."

Mara was admitted to the presidential room in the hospital. That was two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a living room. It was even bigger than the whole first floor of their house. The girl was filthy rich. But it didn’t really matter. He slept beside his sister. There was no use for the rooms.

Brian called their mom as soon as Mara got out of the operating room. As expected, their mother was hysterical. She called almost at least fifty times this past three days to ask if Mara showed any signs of waking up. Their mother, Aimee, was a university professor, and as of now, she's in the plane from Japan to Guinevere, Canada. When she heard the news she immediately bought a ticket home. She would be arriving tonight.

He was dreading the idea of seeing his mother. Not that he didn’t love his mother, of course not. It was just that he was afraid that when he looked into his mother's eyes all he would see was disappointment for him, who couldn’t even take good care of his own sister.

**********

Aimee had never had a longer flight than this one.

It took her a long time before she managed to book a flight. There was a storm at that time, so all the flights have been canceled.

"Hold on, Baby, Mommy's coming."

If Aimee knew that this was going to happen, she would have never left. To hell with that seminar! It was her baby that mattered.

Brian told her on the phone that Mara hit her head because she saved a little girl from being hit by a truck. In a way, she was proud of her daughter. She always knew that Mara had a kindred spirit. But she was also angry! Didn’t she know that everyone will miss her?

Aimee sighed. She looked at her watch for the thirtieth time this hour. They couldn’t expect her to just sit in here while her daughter was in a coma! She had to be there!

She remembered the time her daughter was hailed Valedictorian. How proud she felt! Mara, her daughter, the smartest and most beautiful girl in her school! Anyone who would object to that would have a piece of her mind.

Then she remembered her smile. The sweet smile she always wore. You see, her daughter had only one kind of smile, fit for all occasions. You would see her true emotions in her eyes. Yes, her beautiful chocolate brown eyes. You would see everything there. Her eyes lighted up when she was happy, especially when she just bought a book. Her daughter was a very wide reader. A certified bookworm. She got it from her father. Her thirst of knowledge and information shown since she was a child. She used to read everything with letters in it.

Of course, her eyes dim when she couldn’t buy a book. She tried to hide her disappointment as hard as she could, but she couldn’t fool her own mother. They weren't very rich, so Aimee could not afford all the books she wanted, but she tried her best to provide for her needs and wants.

A tear escaped Aimee's eyes. All of Mara's memories came crashing into her like a tidal wave. Her smile, her laughter, her tears. everything. Aimee was overwhelmed with grief. She'll give anything to see those again.

"Don't take her Laurence. I need her. We need her."

**********

Aimee was in front of her daughter's hospital room.

She was suddenly scared. She was afraid of what she would find inside. She might not recognize her own daughter at all.

Aimee gathered up all her courage and walked inside the room. She was greeted by her son, whom she hugged earnestly. One look at the boy and you would know that he hadn't slept for days. She also noticed that he lost weight. She was immediately worried about her son. She couldn’t afford to have him way from her too.

"Brian, I know you're blaming yourself for what happened, so let me tell you that this is not your fault. You did the best you could. No one could have stopped it from happening. So please, take care of yourself. Eat, and sleep. I'll take care of your sister."

Brian just nodded. Aimee could see that her talk didn't get through her son. He still blamed himself for what happened. But at least he was following her.

Aimee looked at her daughter for the first time since she got in the room. She was very careful to not look at her daughter while her son was still here. She had to be the strong one now. For her children.

She now let her eyes wander to her daughter. She was afraid of this. She barely recognized her daughter. Her Own Daughter.

Aimee let the tears fall as she stared at her daughter. She was as pale and fragile as paper. The rose tinge of her cheeks that was always there was gone. The once red lips were as pale as snow. Tubes were all over her. Monitors surrounded her little girl. Everything about her seemed to scream ‘vulnerable’.

She looked like an abandoned shell, where her once lively and spirited daughter used to be.

Aimee fell down to her knees and cried until there were no tears left.

On the other side of the room, Brian was leaning at the wall for support, crying as hard as his mother.