

Warlock

Kelsey Jade Higgins

Copyright 2020 Kelsey Jade Higgins

Smashwords Edition

CHAPTER ONE: BOMBSHELL

Samuel Blaze Ainsley always wanted to be powerful.

That's what happens after you have been bullied and excluded your entire life. He used to watch the Incredible Hulk on repeat on VHS tape. He owned an old-fashioned, nineties TV (right up until it's sad demise in 2008), and he would just sit right in front of the screen and gawk at it until his eyes were sore. He was mesmerized by the idea, he wanted to be like him so badly. Childish thoughts, of course – but he would say to his mum, "I wouldn't forget you. I would calm down for you, mummy." His mum, Vivian, found it sweet, and she would pat his head and say, "I know you wouldn't forget me, sweet baby..

That's the God's honest truth. The only people Samuel ever felt loved by were his mum, his nan (his mum's mum), his best friend Ajax Acton and HIS mum, Macy Acton. His mum's dad died when she was eleven from a heart attack (unfortunately, his nan met the same fate three years ago). Apparently, Samuel's dad's parents died when he was a teenager. Not that Samuel would know – he knew absolutely nothing about his dad. Not his name – not even what he looked like. He came close to finding out once, but his mum snatched the photo from him immediately, and it had been so long, he had since forgotten. All Samuel knew about his dad was that he studied and practiced Law (thanks to his nan letting it slip), and that is why he had decided to study Law at UCL. He was determined to do well. He studied all day, every day.

Samuel was raised by his mum all on her own in a small, two-bedroom house in Brighton. Rent was high, so they lived in the same house since Samuel was four, when his dad died. The only reason they were probably still living in the house was because his mum went to school with the landlord – they were friends at one point. He lowered the rent when Samuel's dad died – and then lowered it even further when his mum lost her waitressing job two years before until she got another job.

That's when his mother said to him: "See, Sammy? It's not what you know, it's who you know in this world. Make more friends at school." If only it were that easy for him.

Samuel had only ever had one friend in his entire life – and that was Ajax. Ajax had been in his life since he was born, being three months older than Samuel. They were entirely different people. People had often commented on their contrasting personalities and styles – even going as far as to say Ajax would make a better lawyer than Samuel would, because he was too gentle, kind and emotional. Ajax on the other hand, was confident, stoic and bold as brass. The only fault Samuel could find in Ajax was his stubbornness – but that was mostly when it came to his girlfriend, Lola Moonstone.

Her name may make her sound like some Vampire princess – and that's because she practically is. His mum tried to hide magic and 'mythical' creatures from him for a long, long time – but he found out thanks to Ajax when he was fourteen. It happened totally by accident, actually. One morning after Ajax had stayed over, they were sitting down and talking about how he wanted to break up with Lola already. In Samuel's eyes, Lola was the best thing that ever happened to Ajax. She was sweet, kind and beautiful – all the boys envied him at school. They didn't know she was undead, of course.

Samuel told him, "just do it already, then." Ajax wasn't exactly looking for that advice, so they ended up bickering about it. Ajax got up to leave and – in fear of losing his best friend – Samuel tried to grab onto his arm – but instead, he was flung back against the wall with such a force, a crack formed. At first, Samuel didn't register what had happened because his arm and shoulders were throbbing. As soon as he did, though, he freaked out.

Ajax tried to calm him down, and his mum ran upstairs as soon as she heard the bang.

"What the heck is going on in here?!" she yelled at Ajax. Ajax remained calm, understanding Vivian was concerned.

Samuel couldn't breath, as his brain tried to come up with logical reasons why that had happened. Surely, he could think of something. In the end, he couldn't.

"It's time to tell him," he heard Ajax say to his mum above his hyperventilating, "you know it is. He's freaking out."

He hadn't caught any of their earlier conversation. What were they talking about?

"Tell me what?!" he yelled at his mum after a few seconds silence. He regretted yelling at her immediately, she was such a pure soul in his eyes.

"Listen, Sammy," Ajax started, moving towards him slowly, but Samuel tried to scramble away from him. He feared him in that moment, no matter how hard he tried to tell himself otherwise. His arm and shoulder continued to throb, and he clung to his arm like it might fall off or something. His eyes darted from Ajax to his mum, who looked like she was crying. She was biting her nails, a nervous habit. His eyes flickered back to his best friend, who was standing over him with hurt in his dark eyes. Samuel tried to calm himself by taking in deep breaths, but it wasn't really working.

"We can use magic" Ajax suddenly said. He just said it, like it was nothing at all. Though just like that – everything made sense to Samuel. When he was five, he set fire to his bedroom while throwing a tantrum. He didn't want to go to sleep, and he was laying in his bed and suddenly – the sheets went up in flames. Thankfully, his mum was in the room with him, otherwise he would probably have died that night. She cooed him, rocking him from side to side – and the fire went out itself. Then there was the time he set his teachers hair on fire in school for yelling at him. Nobody could prove anything, of course, but she did hate him for the rest of the school year and beyond.

"Mum too?" was all he could ask. He had been so deep in thought, he had 'forgotten' about his panic attack – and his breathing was mostly back to normal.

"No," she replied, stepping towards him and kneeling in front of him. She took both of his hands in hers and gave them a gentle squeeze, "you get it from your dad."

Quickly dismissing it all, Samuel shook his head over and over, "I don't want anything to do with this."

Ajax nodded understandably, "That's okay. Neither do I."

"I just want to be normal" he said, looking at them both, "I just want to go to college and become a lawyer. I don't want to be involved with that stuff." Little did he know, he had little choice.

"I'm relieved to hear you say that," his mum said, wiping a few tears from her eyes with her jumper sleeve.

So, they never spoke of it again. Samuel didn't use magic in his daily life – and he had zero intention of learning how to use it either. Ajax was the exact same – he said it was a waste of his valuable time. Samuel agreed with him wholeheartedly. With their A-Levels coming up, Samuel just wanted to focus on getting good grades, and also his 18th birthday, which was July 10th. There was little room in Samuel's mind for the topic.

Samuel was still living at home, but soon enough he would be going to London to live with Ajax, fingers crossed. One of the many perks of having a rich best friend was that you get to live in a luxury apartment while studying, which is not something many students can relate to. His father, Chaska Jones, was a history professor at Glasgow University and had published many famous fiction (and non-fiction) novels about his ancestors, the Native Americans. Meanwhile, his mum, Macy, was an English teacher in Brighton. His father sent them a hefty monthly allowance to make up for his cheating while they were married (turns out, Chaska was a gay man, but still, a good one at heart, despite what his actions might have said).

Samuel was studying in his bedroom. He was listening to some soft study music on YouTube, while he read the short bio he wrote about Shakespeare, which he would need for his introduction in his essay-based question during the exams. Everyone in his English class talked about how boring he was – but Samuel found him fascinating. Though, Samuel always had been separated from the crowd. Ajax would say that's why nobody liked him – because he wasn't afraid to be different, and Samuel didn't disagree. Hearing two knocks on his bedroom door, he looked up. The doorbell had rung about a minute beforehand, but his mum never answered it. Ajax must have let himself in. At least, he hoped it was Ajax and not some weird salesman who thought it was okay to go into people's homes – because who else would it be?

"Yes?" he called. Ajax stepped into his bedroom, carrying two of his business studies books under his arm.

"Busy?" he asked. Samuel nodded, motioning towards his study notes.

"Shakespeare."

Ajax chuckled, knowing his best friend loved that guy, despite what everyone else said. He took a seat on the end of Samuel's bed as soon as he entered the room properly. They were now sitting side by side, since Samuel's desk was at the end of his bed.

"I was thinking we could study together" Ajax said, flashing him a hopeful smile. His teeth were pearly white, which looked good against his dark skin. Samuel oftentimes found himself wishing he was as tanned as Ajax, but he had more sallow skin. At least he could find comfort in the fact that he could tan if he sunbathed, which wasn't very often.

"Sure," Samuel smiled, unable to resist his friend's charm. Ajax pumped his fist in the air, his favourite victory move, then opened one of his books. Samuel's eyes trailed from Ajax to his notes once again. He flipped through the notes until he reached the 'About the Play' section.

"In Shakespeare's play, Othello, Othello is a Moorish general in the Venetian Army..." he read internally, trying his hardest to take in all the information he had previously highlighted. He reached for his English folder and found more notes on Othello, reading them. It was all information he knew already, but he was growing more and more paranoid that as soon as the paper was in front of him, everything he knew would magically fly away. He looked over at Ajax, and he was concentrating so hard that he didn't even notice. He had his thick eyebrows furrowed so much they were almost touching the bridge of his nose, and he was tapping his blue pen against his chin.

"Stuck?" Samuel questioned. Ajax snapped from his daydream, nodding at him.

"Need any help?"

"You don't study business" Ajax chuckled. Samuel stood up and took a seat beside him on the bed, taking the pen out of his hand. He balanced the textbook on his eyes as he read through the problem.

"Yeah, but I do math" he responded quietly.

"True, true."

Samuel helped him with the problem, figuring it out quickly – and Ajax was honestly surprised that he could do it, despite Samuel telling him he could.

"You're too smart for your own good, Ainsley" Ajax told him as he stood up off the bed.

"You love it."

"Duh!"

Samuel laughed and returned to his seat at his desk at once. He stretched out his arms, then he placed his hands on the small of his back and stretched to loosen the tense muscles. Sitting down for hours a day was starting to get boring, and it was starting to make him stiff and sore all the time, but even when he got to university, it would still be like that and just as hard. Ajax returned to studying almost immediately, but Samuel just sat there, thinking about what to study next. He took out his maths book, but after about ten minutes, his concentration started waning. He found himself thinking about stupid things, including how cool it would be to find a spell to learn everything at once. He needed some air.

When he stood up, he noticed Ajax staring at him.

"I'm going for a walk. Are you coming?" he asked him.

"Yeah, sure," Ajax said softly. His voice sounded slightly bored, and it was lower than usual, an indication his concentration had also been waning. The pair head downstairs, and Samuel lets his mum know they were going for a walk to the pier. She agreed that they both needed and deserved it. They leave the house as soon as Samuel puts on his hoodie, and head towards the pier. Ajax walked beside him; his hands shoved in his jean's pockets. There was a silence between them, but it was nice and relaxed.

When they reached the pier, they got an ice-cream and just sat on the sand in silence, watching the waves crash, the seagulls pull at the bins and a group of tween boys and girls playing a game of catch. Their parents watched them by the waterside, nibbling on ice-cream cones. Samuel felt at ease, and totally relaxed. He didn't feel worried or nervous for the first time in months. Ajax finally spoke a few seconds later, dropping a bombshell on him.

"I'm getting married next summer."

Samuel almost choked on a large piece of his cone. Ajax patted his back until he stopped coughing.

"Wait – what?!" Samuel exclaimed.

"Mr. Moonstone came to see me. He said he wants me to be the father of his grandkids, and to take Lola's hand."

"What the hell, who says that?!" Samuel gasped. He was totally surprised by this news. Ajax didn't seem bothered.

"Meh, I can do it."

"But – I thought you wanted to break up with Lola" Samuel said.

"I did but – things change, I suppose."

Not just like that, Samuel was suspicious.

"Ajax, you're too young to get married. You only just turned eighteen!"

"It's a sacrifice I'm willing to make."

"What does that mean?" Samuel asked, quirking a brow. Ajax is silent for a few, suspicious seconds.

"Nothing. Finish your cone."

"Ajax!" Samuel exclaimed, but Ajax stood up and walked to the bin with his tissue paper. He dabbed at the corners of his mouth before throwing the tissue inside the bin.

Samuel felt an overwhelming sadness wash over him. Ajax was going to marry Lola, and he was dead set on it, too. Maybe he had realised how lucky he was.

"It's for the best, Sammy," he said, re-joining him on the sand, "It'll be fine."

He could tell Samuel was worried, but he wasn't just worried about Ajax – he was also worried about himself.

That may sound incredibly selfish, but how else was he supposed to feel when the man he loved was getting married? Would he go as far as to say that aloud? Hell no. He couldn't tell him that, it would ruin everything. Ajax had been his first crush. Of course, Samuel was displeased by this at the time because every other boy in his class liked a girl. He thought he was weird as heck for it, and nobody ever made him feel any different – except Ajax. Not that he knew about it, he had always been too shy to tell him. Every year, as Valentine's Day approached, he would tell himself he would confess. Then Ajax would go out on a date with Lola, and post photos thanking her for the great relationship and for loving him, and he would recoil into himself and vow to never tell him. It was a continuous cycle, but now it was all too late.Samuel's mouth opened, ready say something, maybe even confess his love, but as soon as Ajax looked at him, he hesitated. A tiny squeak emitted his throat, and then he just closed his mouth. Ajax gave him a disappointed look. Samuel couldn't bear to look at him in that moment, so he hung his head and allowed his hair to fall into his eyes. Ajax started to twitch his leg, which he did when he wanted to say something or was nervous, but he said nothing at all. Samuel wished he knew what he was thinking. He wished he had that superpower. Then he remembered it was potentially suppressed deep inside of him, and for a second, he thought about trying. He didn't. That is an invasion of privacy – and he didn't want to use any magic. Ever.

Ajax looked out onto the water. All he wanted to do in that moment was to tell Samuel he loved him so much. That if he had a choice, he would marry him over and over in a heartbeat. He'd live that day for the rest of his life, never getting tired of it. He knew Samuel knew what the leg twitching meant, but he couldn't help it. He was nervous, trying to gain the courage to say something to him – anything – that would at least be a hint about his feelings for him. The sun was setting on the horizon, and Ajax's eyes were starting to blur from sleepiness. His confession would have to wait for another day – if ever.

Instead, he settled for scooting closer to his friend and Samuel rested his head on his shoulder. Ajax didn't move for ages; he'd have been crazy to. He didn't want Samuel's touch to become just a memory.

"We should head back," Samuel said, snapping Ajax out of his brief euphoria.

"We should," Ajax replied reluctantly, "it's getting late."

Samuel pulled away completely, then they both stood up and headed back in the direction of Samuel's house. Only one question was on both of their minds as they walked home in silence.

Would their pain ever end?

CHAPTER TWO: HURT

As soon as Samuel arrived home, he shot up the stairs like a bullet and closed the door behind him. Leaning against it, he took a few deep breaths to stop the tears from falling. That moment with Ajax, just sitting by the ocean with his head on his shoulder, made him realise that he would never get to do that as his boyfriend. He took a seat on his bed, which was neatly made, except where Ajax had been sitting previously. The sheets were crinkled in that spot, an indication that someone had been sitting there.

He sat there for a few minutes – just sitting. He only had one question that he could not find the answer for, no matter how many times he picked at his brain and his heart.  
"Does love always hurt?"  
Ajax had been his love interest, crush, whatever you may call it for so long. All he could think was; was it his fault Ajax wasn't his? Truthfully, Samuel knew Ajax wasn't really interested in Lola. Despite her being the most beautiful girl in school. Most boys in their year and below would kill to kiss her and to run their hands through her roaring red hair. Nevertheless, being a gay male himself, Samuel could tell Ajax was not straight. His decision to marry Lola clearly wasn't his own.

So, if Ajax wasn't interested in Lola – or girls in general – then who was he interested in?  
Samuel, perhaps? Or was that just wishful thinking?

He heard a gentle knock on his bedroom door.  
"Sammy...?" he heard his mother call softly. His eyes flickered to his bedroom door just as his mother entered, immediately noticing that her son was not okay. That is why Samuel thought his mother was so special because she knew him inside and out. She was one of the people he could rely on for anything – which is what made her an amazing mum. Vivian took a seat beside her son, placing her hands in her lap. Panic flooded Samuel's mind, as he tried to come up with a lie to tell her about what was wrong.

"What's the matter?" she asked him. Her voice was always soft and gentle, something Samuel found comforting in his times of need. He twiddled his thumbs, deciding he was tired of lying. Tired of beating around the bush. It was time to tell someone the truth.  
"I-I'm in love" he managed to croak out. He shocked even himself, had he just confessed he was in love with someone to his mum before telling them? Was that the usual way to do it?

His mum had never heard him utter those words before. Despite being shocked, she kept her composure. She had a feeling she knew who Samuel was in love with, but she had to play stupid for a while.

"I see," she said with a small giggle. She couldn't hold it back. Oops, "and I assume this girl is not being very considerate of your feelings or something?"

"Well, they don't know" came his swift reply.  
"Then why don't you say something? It might make you feel better" she said, the excitement tearing away at her. Could this be Ajax he was talking about? A mother knows her son.  
"Would it? What if they reject me?" he questioned.  
"You're a handsome boy, I'm sure she wouldn't" she said, pinching his cheeks. Samuel didn't cheer up by this like he usually did. Instead, he frowned deeply.

"Mum?" he suddenly called.  
"Yes, sweetheart?"

He rested his head on her shoulder to avoid her gaze. She reached behind to scratch the back of his head softly, sending tingles up the back of Samuel's neck. He was very sensitive to ASMR and things like that.  
"How do you know it's a girl?" he asked quietly.  
"Is it not?" she asked calmly.  
"It's not."  
"Well, that can make things a little bit more complicated," she said, "but I wouldn't give up just yet."

A silence followed; Samuel was contemplating this.  
"Do you mind me asking who it is?" Vivian asked hopefully.  
More silence.  
"Ajax?" she questioned, earning a small nod from her son. There was no point in lying. It was now clear to smart, little Samuel that his mother was well aware of that.  
"Since when?"  
"Since forever, mum."  
He heard a smile cracking in her voice as she spoke, "how sweet."  
"Maybe...but mum, he's getting married to Lola Moonstone."

His mum pulled back away from him so abruptly, she nearly fell off the bed, almost dragging Samuel with her.  
"What?!"  
"Yeah...that's what I said."  
"Oh my!" Vivian gasped, "Macy never told me anything about that!"  
"She didn't, really?"  
"No," came Vivian's shocked reply, "do you think she knows about it yet?"  
"Perhaps not. I don't see Macy ever lying to you or hiding anything from you."

His mum cupped his face in her hands, wiping away a few stray tears that had dared to fall.  
"Sammy, someday someone is going to come into your life and sweep your tiny self-off your feet. You will know they're the one, and when you know – you know, and that's a fact."

She had told him that before, but it didn't make him feel any better, because that was exactly how he felt about Ajax. Noticing that she was just trying to make him happy, Samuel shot her a fake smile, which she returned – though hers was genuine.  
She pressed a kiss to his cheek, "you will make someone very happy one day. Maybe Ajax isn't the one, and God has a plan for you. He always does. Or maybe he is, and this is just a blip. Be careful, either way."

Feeling a tiny bit better, Samuel noticed that his heart was hurting less.  
"I'm going to get some sleep," he said, unsure of what else he could say to her, "I need to study tomorrow."

"Okay" she said softly, giving his hand one last, gentle squeeze. She stood up, opening his bedroom door and glancing back at him one more time before she left.  
"Goodnight," she said, "love you."  
"I love you too" Samuel replied softly, and then she left him. Samuel got stripped down to his boxers, and then hopped under his cool covers. He only laid there for about five minutes before he fell asleep.  
Maybe heartbreak wears you out.

Meanwhile, Vivian stood outside his bedroom door until she heard him snoring softly. That boy was just like his father in every way. She found herself smiling as she trotted down the stairs of their home, sitting in front of the TV on the couch and checked the news, which she had recorded while she was cleaning earlier that evening. It had become a habit for Vivian to watch the news very late – since she usually worked until late.

"The bodies of three female students have been found with what looks like bite marks along their arms, legs, and necks. London Metropolitan police are enquiring for any witnesses to the crimes to please step forward. The girls have been identified and named as -"  
"More girls?" Vivian mumbled to herself, squinting to see the TV better. So, that was three that week already. Four the week before. Six the week before that. They were suspecting it was a serial killer- but Vivian knew it was something much more sinister.

She glanced in the direction of the staircase, her heart racing.

Vampires.  
It was Vampires that had murdered Samuel's father – her husband – and it was vampires who were murdering those students. A dreadful feeling overcame her, even though she knew that Maximus's killer was in Hexia prison – rotting away for all eternity. What if they were coming for Sammy? What if that was their way of sending a message? She wasn't about to let them have her boy. Not then – not ever. Sending him to university in London as a bad idea, but Sammy wouldn't listen. He would just say, "I want nothing to do with magic. I'll be fine."  
Vivian was incredibly worried about him, but she had to put her faith in him. She just hoped he could stay safe. The last thing she could handle was losing her son the same way she lost her husband fourteen years prior.

"Oh, Maximus..." she sighed deeply, "what am I supposed to do?"

Macy Acton was not happy.

She started screaming at her son the moment he walked through the front door. While he had been out, Mr. Moonstone had called his mum, letting her know the big news before Ajax could gather the courage to tell her. She was delirious, with tears just streaming down her cheeks, because she knew what would come next. Her son? A vampire? NEVER. It's not that she did not like Lola, but she hated Mr. Moonstone with the strongest of passions. Ajax would be willing to bet she thought the relationship between Lola and Ajax would die down – and he wasn't wrong, but so did he. Macy never imagined Moonstone pulling strings like that, she simply wouldn't have it.

"Ajax, what are you thinking?!" she yelled at him. Ajax was just leaning against the counter, drinking some orange juice out of the carton.  
"I don't expect you to understand why I'm doing this," he said, "which is why I didn't tell you to begin with. Just – please try to."  
"What are you talking about?!"  
"Mr. Moonstone knows that you and father are powerful. So naturally, your offspring would be powerful" he told her, taking a large gulp. Thanks to her anger and upset, she had more things to scold him about than drinking out of the carton. His throat felt dry because secretly, he was anxious as hell.

"So, you're telling me he blatantly asked you to marry his daughter because he assumes your magic is powerful?"  
"Yep."

"Ajax, what about Sammy?"  
"What about him?" he asked coldly. To his knowledge, his mother assumed him to be straight, so she more than likely didn't mean it in that way.  
"He's going to be lonely and left out."  
"Then he can get a girlfriend or something" he shrugged, "that's none of my concern. Besides, Lola has plenty of female cousins. I'm sure Mr. Moonstone wouldn't mind."

"You know damn well that the Moonstone's hate Samuel. They hated his father. They murdered him for God's sake! You know all of this, Ajax. Aside from all that, Samuel has common sense. He knows he's too young to get married."  
"Sammy and common sense don't go together in the same sentence."  
"Why are you being so mean about your best friend? He's the only one who's been there for you consistently."  
"I'm not being mean," he said, "I'm being honest."  
True.

Macy rolled her eyes, approached her son, taking him by the shoulders and shook him gently.  
"Listen to me, Ajax. Whatever he offered you – don't take it."  
"He didn't offer me anything, mum."  
"Don't lie to me, I know Artemis Moonstone like the back of my hand. What has he offered you?"  
"He offered to pay my college tuition."  
"Ajax! You know your father is taking care of all that!"  
"Yeah? And, where is he?!" he yelled in her face. Macy took a few steps backwards as he continued to yell at her.

"He fucked off and left us here! He cheated on you with man after man! He doesn't love me, he never did, so I want or expect nothing from him!"  
Macy sighed deeply, "he does love you, Ajax. It's me he never loved. Just because your father is gay – that doesn't mean he doesn't love you. It doesn't mean he is not happy that he had you."

"Then why isn't he here? Why is he in Scotland?"  
"Because that's where his career is. You know he'd be here in a heartbeat if he could. Or have you there with him."

Ajax took a few seconds to respond. That was true. "I suppose so."  
He was slowly calming down. He hated moments like that – where he yelled at his mum because she was the only parental figure around him apart from Vivian. He pulled her into him for a hug.  
"I'm sorry, mum."

"It's okay" she said softly, rubbing his back as she hugged him, "just rethink it all, okay?"  
He nodded, but he didn't have anything to think about. He was going to marry Lola. He had no choice in the matter. Thinking back, from the moment he began dating Lola, he had no choice. Not even when Mr. Moonstone asked nicely – because if he had of had a choice, he wouldn't have asked him again -that time more aggressively.

He threatened Samuel.

What more was there to say? What other reason did he need to obey? He told him openly that he was gay. He was the first-person Ajax came out to – simply out of fear, and his reply was to snicker and say "so?", before walking away. Leaving Ajax shaking and sweating like a tween in love. Ajax had been hanging out with Samuel that day at their favourite café – who suspected nothing.

It wasn't like he had planned to confess to Samuel. At the end of the day, he was Sammy. His best friend since forever. Ruining that would be just that – ruining it. Nothing good could have ever come of it, especially if he didn't feel the same way – which was the most probable outcome. Either way, he couldn't do it. He was breaking his mum's heart, and Sammy had seemed pretty upset to hear the news too (a sign?) but he had to do it.

For Sammy's sake. As usual.

CHAPTER THREE: HERO

Samuel studied all day long, only take an almost two-hour break in between. He hadn't heard a peep from Ajax, which was worrying him. His mum hadn't spoken of the day before at all, and Samuel was relieved. He felt embarrassed after admitting his feelings for Ajax to her.

At dinner, his mum brought up Macy.

"I spoke with Macy today" she announced with a mouthful of homemade spaghetti Bolognese. She learned the recipe from the chef at the restaurant she worked at.  
"What did she say?" Samuel asked curiously.  
"She said she's devastated by Ajax's news," she continued, "that Artemis Moonstone came to the house and told her the news before Ajax could."

Samuel felt infuriated by that, but his sorrow for Macy overshadowed those emotions. His sadness showed on his face, so his mum shot him a reassuring smile.  
"Don't worry, Macy will soldier on. She's always been brave."

"She was brave when Mr. Jones left her because he was just her husband. Ajax is her son, I guess it's harder when you're about to lose your kid."  
Vivian raised a brow, "how will she be losing him?"  
"Well, it's time, really," Samuel said, stirring his food around his plate. He was suddenly not very hungry.

"When you think about it, Lola is a vampire. Ajax is a human."  
"Yes?"  
"And according to Ajax, Mr. Moonstone mentioned grandkids when he spoke with Ajax. That means Ajax is going to have to become a vampire, too."

Vivian's face fell, and she paled, like she had never thought about that before – probably because hadn't. Nobody had. Just Samuel, because he loved him – and he had been overthinking absolutely everything, as usual.

"If Ajax and Lola have babies together right now – they would be Vampire-Human hybrids and do you believe for a second that Mr. Moonstone doesn't want purebloods?"  
"You're right," Vivian said, dropping her fork, "do you think Ajax knows this?"  
"I know he knows it. He thinks I'm just dumb Sammy. But I'm not."  
Vivian reached her hand across the table and squeezed his hand gently, "he doesn't think that of you."  
"Sure."

Samuel looked up at her, and her face was scrunched up into this devastated look. For a moment, Samuel thought he said something to upset her – or that she felt bad for him because his childhood love was about to marry someone else – but then she cleared her throat and spoke.  
"Sammy, we need to talk about something."

"What's wrong?" he blinked. His heart automatically started to beat faster, and he had butterflies in his stomach. She looked down at the table, then back up at him.  
" I know you said you don't want to talk about it ever again, but there's something we need to discuss in regards to your magic."  
"Mum-"

"Sammy, listen to me."  
Samuel pursed his lips, shaking his head a little bit, he didn't want to talk about it. All he wanted to do was go back to his room and have a little cry about Ajax.  
"Your life is in danger," she said softly, as to not scare him, "I feel it."  
"What do you mean?"

"Your father he – he was killed by vampires. Artemis Moonstone's brother, Arthur Moonstone, was the one who killed him. He and Artemis held a grudge against your father, because he was known as the most powerful Warlock in England..."  
That was the first time he had ever heard any of this.  
"There has been a number of murders in London. Young women. Macy and I think it might be a message."  
"A message? For what?" he questioned, his voice quiet.

"For you."

"Mum, I know you'll be lonely when I move to London, but there's no need to feel that way. I will call you every day and visit most weekends, I promise."  
"Sammy-"

"I know, mum. I know you're worried about me, but I want nothing to do with my magic. They don't have any reason to come after me, or be worried about me being powerful like dad. I just want to be normal, because my entire life I have been the weirdo."  
"But Sammy, please at least learn to defend yourself-"  
"Will it require me to use magic?"  
"Yes, of course."  
"Are you really telling me to use magic? After telling me you were relieved, I didn't want to?"

"This is urgent, Sammy. I don't think you understand how much danger there is out there!"  
"I'll be fine!"

"No, you won't be!" she yelled at him. Samuel was shocked, because his mum never really raised her voice, especially not at him. In that moment, he realized how serious she was being. She took a deep breath, hiding her face in her hands.  
"Mum?"  
"I'm so sorry, Sammy. I didn't mean to yell at you."  
"No, I understand."

"I want you to feel normal, too. I know how hard it has been for you. Growing up in this place, being bullied just because you were unique" she looked up at him, "but I just want to tell you – that behavior doesn't just happen in Brighton. It happens everywhere. People are awful. You are special, Sammy. You always have been, since before you were even born. That won't change no matter how hard you try, because you don't really want to fit in, do you? You don't really want to be like them."

Samuel contemplated what she was saying, then he shook his head no. Because she was right.  
"No matter how hard you or I try, you will never be able to escape magic."  
"But - why?"  
"Because," she said, squeezing his hand, "it's in your blood."  
His blood, that coursed through his veins. It was half his mum's blood – but it was also half his dad's blood – and his dad was a Warlock. That made him half Warlock.

"I wish it were different," she said sadly, "I wish you didn't have to do this, because I am so worried about you all the time, but I would rather you know how to defend yourself against these dark creatures."

Samuel nodded along.  
"Fair enough, I understand. What do I do?"  
She shrugged, "I will need to ask Macy about your next steps."  
Macy was a witch. In fact, she was head witch of her female-only coven. She was apparently very talented with magic – as was Ajax's father, Chaska. That was why Mr. Moonstone wanted Ajax to marry Lola, because he was a pureblood Warlock. He would NEVER ask Samuel to marry her. One, because he hated Samuel's dad's guts and two, because he was a half-blood. He wasn't good enough. Not that he'd want to, anyway.

He just wanted Ajax, but that wasn't going to happen. The doorbell chimed, and his mum stood up to answer the door. While she did, Samuel put his leftovers in the fridge for the next day. He had lost his appetite, thinking about Ajax getting married and also all the talk about learning magic. He wondered would Ajax be interested in learning magic with him? Speak of the devil – and he shall appear. Just as Ajax entered his mind – he also entered the kitchen.

"Hey!" Samuel said excitedly, surprised to see him there so late.  
"Hey" Ajax grinned.  
"I will be in the living room, can you put my leftovers in the fridge, Sammy?!" his mum shouted from the hallway.  
"Yes, mum!" Samuel shouted back.

"Something happened, didn't it?" Ajax asked worriedly.  
"Huh?"

"You didn't finish your dinner" Ajax said.  
"How did you-"  
"Just a guess" he chuckled. He looked over at the kitchen door and Ajax closed it, almost like he read his mind.  
"Mum wants me to learn magic."  
"Wait - why?"  
"Because she thinks my life is in danger."  
"How?" he asked, looking rather shady, like he already knew, but he couldn't possibly have.

"Something about the vampires who killed my dad."  
"Those vampires are locked up in Hexia Prison."

"Hexia? Where's that? The states?"  
"No. Well, it's complicated. It doesn't exist per say. It's a prison for magic users, which exists in a magical world. Hexia Prison is located in the Black Mountains."  
Samuel blinked at him with confusion, "...Wow. Okay."  
"I know it's weird, but I got curious one day and asked my mum what happened when Arthur Moonstone killed your father. She mentioned Hexia prison, so I read into it."

"What did it say about it?"

"Well, it was a document in a book mum had in the library at home. It said Hexia prison is the only magical prison that currently exists, and that it's also the darkest prison – home to the worst magic-wielding criminals to ever walk the earth. The inmates are murderers, rapists and warlocks and witches caught using forbidden magic. They're not very well looked after, either. Although they probably deserve it."

"Yeah, seems like they do" Samuel replied, and he instantly thought about his poor dad, even though he couldn't think of his face – because he had never seen it. Samuel looked more like his mum, so it was hard to judge what he looked like from that. Although Samuel had blue eyes, and his mum had green – so he assumed his dad had blue eyes. Also, his mother was a brunette and he had black hair, so he probably got that from him, too.

His mum hid a lot from him. He understood it was only to protect him, but it still hurt him a little bit. He didn't even know his name, so he dared to ask.  
"Um...Ajax? Do you know much about my dad?"  
Ajax pursed his lips and there was Samuel's confirmation.  
"...Why haven't you told me?" Samuel asked quietly.  
"Because your mum begged me not to" he said sadly, reaching for Samuel's hand, but he snapped it away.

"Sammy, please" Ajax begged, "everything I ever do is to make sure you're okay."  
"What does that mean?"  
"It means I care about you. I just want you to be safe."  
Samuel just stared at him. He was upset but he knew he was right, so he didn't ask him to leave. Besides, he couldn't stand losing him. He was looking back into Samuel's eyes and he wanted him to hold him, because it was all way too much for him to handle – all that information.

Over the years, he wanted to know everything about his dad, but he had especially wanted to know what had happened to him? Why he wasn't with them. Why he had to miss out on a normal, family life. Now that the information was coming to him, he was getting stressed out – and right before his exams, too.

"Sammy?"  
"Hm?" Samuel asked, tears in his eyes.

Ajax took a few steps towards him and enveloped him in a big hug. Samuel sighed with relief as soon as he felt his arms around him. He towered over him in height, but he was also a lot broader, so he almost swallowed him up when they hugged. He liked it, it felt warm and cosy. Like he belonged there.

Samuel hugged him back, sniffling. His mind was now calm, and he didn't feel like crying anymore, but his nose was still running. Ajax didn't seem to care that he was snotting all over him.  
"I'm sorry for hiding everything" he said. He sounded so disappointed in himself.  
"It's okay, I understand. You were only doing what you were told."  
"Whenever you want to know, whatever you want to know – I will tell you."

"I don't think I'm quite there yet."  
"And that's okay."  
He now understood that it was too much information to take in in one day. He would let Ajax hold onto the information until the time was right.

Samuel pulled back first, as much as he didn't want to. One of them had to, and it didn't seem like Ajax was going to. He gave Samuel a slight smile, as if he didn't know whether smiling was okay at that moment. So, Samuel gave him a wide grin. He returned the affection by gently pinching Samuel's nose. Samuel loved any kind of physical contact with him. Whenever he pinched his nose, he imagined him calling him "cute," and he felt all warm inside. He never said that to him before, but he wished he would.

"So, when do we begin?" he suddenly asked Samuel, clapping his hands together.  
"Begin what?"  
"Learning magic."  
"We?"  
"Yup. We. You didn't think I was going to let you do this alone, did you?"  
"But why not?"  
Because you're Sammy, that's why" he chuckled. Samuel stifled a laugh, even though he was unsure if that was an insult or not.  
"You don't think I can do it alone?"  
"No, no. You can do it alone, but you're the clumsiest and most hopeless person I know. You need me."

"He-hey!"  
"It's true. Say it. Say you need me."  
"Nooo!" Samuel yelled, hiding his face in his hands. He felt so embarrassed because he really did need him.  
"Tell meee!" Ajax chuckled, grabbing at Samuel's hands and trying to force them away from his face.  
"Fine, I need you!" Samuel giggled.  
"There we go, was that so difficult?"

He managed to tear Samuel's hands away from his face because Samuel stopped trying. It was difficult, because it was very true. Despite the joking manner, he did need Ajax. He was the one who defended him in school. He even got into a few scraps because of him, and was suspended from school several times for him. Ajax was his hero.

"Ajax?" Samuel called, looking right at his friend.  
"Hm?"  
"Thank you."  
"It's no biggie."  
Samuel allowed his hair to fall into his eyes as he looked down at the kitchen tiles and shuffled his feet.  
"It is."

"Sammy?" Ajax asked worriedly.  
"You're always there for me. I'd be lost without you. You're my hero."  
He had to tell him, but he just couldn't look at him while he said it. He would have died from embarrassment. He still couldn't look at him – but he could feel his eyes on him.

Ajax took a deep breath.  
"God, Sammy. You're so sweet."  
"I try."

Ajax chuckled, and Samuel heard his voice quiver when he did.  
"So, why did you come anyway?" Samuel asked, finally looking up at him. He didn't want things to get sappy again.  
"Well...I wanted to know if you wanted to play Call of Duty or something."  
Samuel laughed, "come on upstairs, then."

CHAPTER FOUR: CLOSE

Ajax started heading home around half 10 that night. Vivian had offered to give him a lift home, but Ajax knew she struggled with petrol money, so he politely declined. He was about to turn the corner to his home when his phone started to ring. 'Stayin' Alive' blared through the speakers and he silently laughed. That was his ringtone for Mr. Moonstone. He figured it would be a laugh, since he's, you know, dead. Technically.

He picked up the phone immediately, knowing better than to ignore him.  
"Hello, sir."  
"Good evening, Mr. Acton," came his caller's posh voice, "Are you available for a word?"  
It's not like he had a choice in the matter.  
"Of course, sir."  
"Swing by our house. I will be waiting for you."

"Yes, sir."  
"Good. I will see you then."

Mr. Moonstone hung up then. Ajax turned on his heel and started to head in the opposite direction and arrived at the Moonstone Manor within ten minutes. The manor was very impressive, to say the least. It was massive, and right on the pillar beside the gate is a real gold plaque with 'MOONSTONE' carved into it – and the family crest – an eagle plucking out the eyes of a lion. Creepy. The gates were wide open, since he was expected to arrive. Ajax walked up the long, winding driveway. Just before he knocked the knocker, he took a few deep breaths. He was nervous as hell, probably because Mr. Moonstone was a very scary 'man.' He knocked, then took a step backwards, and within seconds the Butler (yes, he was also a vampire) opened the door and welcomed him inside. He took Ajax's cardigan and hung it up by the tag on their coat hanger right by the front door.

"Welcome, young sir" he said kindly, "Mr. Moonstone is waiting for you in the drawing room."  
Ajax felt like he was back in the 1800's every time he was in that house. He had been there with Lola a few times (she mostly came to his house), but he had never been to see her father alone.  
"Thank you," Ajax smiled, and he made his way towards the 'drawing room' where he and Lola had to sit, since they were not allowed up to her bedroom. His mum was less strict, so they were allowed in his bedroom where most of the time all they did was have sex. Fooling himself and her.

He gave a gentle knock on the door and Mr. Moonstone invited him in by saying, "come in, Mr. Acton."

Ajax figured he could probably sense him by the smell of his blood or something. Lola always told him his blood smelt divine, but she reckoned it was because she was attracted to him. Ajax entered and gave him a small smile. Mr. Moonstone motioned towards the seat in front of them. He was seated in front of the large fireplace, fire blazing. A book filled with Shakespeare's plays was sitting on the end table beside him. Ajax found himself thinking that he and Sammy would have a lot to talk about if only Mr. Moonstone gave him a chance.

Ajax sat down opposite him and leaned forward in his seat, clasping his hands together. It was sort of awkward for a moment before Mr. Moonstone finally spoke.  
"How long have you known Mr. Ainsley?"  
Ajax blinked at him, "Uh...since we were born. I'm two months older than him, our parents were best friends."  
"Ah, I see. Would you say you two are...'close?'"  
"Of course, we're close," Ajax said, "he's my best friend."

"You know what I mean, Mr. Acton."

Oh. He was asking if they were 'CLOSE, CLOSE'.

"Oh, that's what you mean. No, of course not. Sammy isn't interested in me like that."  
"But you are?"  
"No, I-"  
"Mr. Acton," he said, interrupting him, "I am a very patient man when it comes to many things. But when it comes to my little girl, my only daughter, I am not."  
"I can assure you; Sammy and I are not interested in each other."  
He was lying of course, at least he was lying about himself.

"I understand that this may be difficult for you to hear and understand, but I must take the necessary precautions for my little Lola's sake. I would very much appreciate if you would distance yourself from Mr. Ainsley."

"WHAT?!" Ajax yelled.  
His heart was racing. Was he seriously asking him to distance himself from Samuel? He was sacrificing enough already.  
"Mr. Acton. I understand my request angers and upsets you...but it's for the best. You confided in me with your little secret. Lola doesn't have to know, and I feel as though your relationship with Mr. Ainsley is more than purely platonic. If she were to discover your hidden sexuality, well, that wouldn't be very good now, would it?"

Ajax was pretty sure he was giving him the blankest stare in the world in that moment. He didn't know what to do or how to express his anger and upset in a rational way. It was Mr. Moonstone, he would murder him right there if he lashed out.  
"I-I can't."  
"Why not?" he questioned sternly.  
"Because he needs me."  
"Then I will allow you some time to prepare him for this big change."  
"Mr. Moonstone, I can assure you-"  
"You can assure me all you like. I can feel your emotions for him."  
"Don't."

"There is a reason I called you here and gave my request to you" he said, leaning forward in his seat and reaching for a glass of scotch, neat, which was on the coffee table between them. Request? More like order. Lola said they don't eat or drink, but her father liked the taste of scotch. It was the only thing he consumed, apart from animal blood.  
"Why is that?"

"I've been tuning into your feelings and emotions, Mr. Acton. Not on purpose initially, but your feelings are very strong so they were hard to ignore. As I'm sure you will understand if you have a daughter of your own someday, my little girl is my main priority. Mr. Ainsley is getting in the way already."

"How so?"  
"You are in love with him," Mr, Moonstone began, closing his eyes. Ajax tried not to think of Sammy, but his handsome face kept popping into his mind.  
"Those beautiful, sky blue eyes and those adorable freckles, how they are speckled across his nose and cheeks. His skin, sallow, how easily he tans in the sunshine. Oh, how you long to run your hands through his raven hair as you kiss him passionately."

Mr. Moonstone was using mind manipulation to force Ajax to think these things so that he could see them. He continued to list off the things that Ajax wanted to do with Sammy, even the sexual things. Ajax's cheeks were hot – and he just wanted to scream "SHUT UP!" at him. He stopped just as Ajax was about to snap.

Mr. Moonstone's eyes snapped open.  
"Need I say any more?"  
"I get the picture" Ajax said quietly.

"Do you? Excellent. You know what will happen if you don't listen to me, don't you?"  
"You'll hurt him?"  
He chuckled darkly, "very good. Sharp boy."  
Ajax was about to ask him why he hated Samuel, and why he hated Samuel's dad, but Mr. Moonstone stood up.  
"I look forward to the wedding planning process. I will be in touch."  
That was Ajax's que to get the fuck out, probably.

"Thank you for your time, Mr. Moonstone" Ajax said, standing up. He wanted to scream and cry all at once as he left the drawing room. Would he really be able to give up his Sammy forever?

As he left the drawing room, Ajax spotted Lola standing on the staircase. She smiled when she saw him, and ran down the stairs into his chest. He let out an "oof" sound. He didn't quite hug her back; he just hovered his hands over her back.

"I thought I smelt you" she giggled, pulling back slightly, "what are you doing here?"  
She rested her hands on his hips.  
"I was here to see your father," he replied, "wedding business."  
Lola giggled again when he said that, "exciting."  
"Indeed."  
"Are you going home now?" she asked, leaning into him once again, but she was still looking up into his eyes.

"Yeah, I am" Ajax replied stiffly.

"Want to come upstairs for a while?" she asked suggestively.  
Ajax turned his head to look at the drawing room door, then back at her with a worried expression. Lola laughed.

"Don't worry, he won't know."  
"How?"  
"I'll make sure he doesn't find out," she said, "besides, Aaron isn't here." The butler.  
"Fair enough, let's go."  
She took a hold of his hand and lead him upstairs. The whole way upstairs, he kept thinking about how they were about to have sex – and he didn't want to take advantage of her anymore. Then he remembered they were getting married for the purpose of procreation, and he felt worse.

She brought him into her bedroom, which was even more goth than she was. They were a totally unsuited couple on the outside. Ajax preferred lighter coloured clothes, and he had dark skin and jet-black hair. Lola loved dark clothes, and she was as pale as paper, and had roaring red hair that reached down to her bum. She was beautiful to look at, don't get him wrong, and she was so loving and kind. Though she was all of those things and more, he couldn't bring himself to fall in love with her for obvious reasons. For a little while, he thought maybe he was in love with her and Samuel, but it wasn't possible for him.

He once read a quote on Facebook above love. He couldn't remember who it was by. It mentioned that you cannot love two people at once, because if you loved the first person, you wouldn't have fallen for the second. Samuel had his entire heart and soul, through and through, and that was what sucked so bad about his situation. They sat on her bed, and she got right down to business, kissing his neck.

"Lola, I-" he started, closing his eyes. He wanted to tell her, but he knew Mr. Moonstone would hurt Samuel, so he didn't say another word.  
"Relax, you're so tense" she said against his skin. Ajax nodded, unclenching his shoulders.  
"Whatever is on your mind, I'll make it go away. Come here."

She kissed him on the lips, and he just allowed himself to melt into it. He pushed her down onto the bed and climbed over her, their lips not parting for a second. He needed it, but he was doing it with the wrong person. He felt like he was betraying him.  
'Sammy', was all he could think, 'I'm sorry.'

CHAPTER FIVE: COPE

Come morning, Samuel could hear his mum talking on the phone downstairs. He heard her say "Macy", so he assumed that was who she was talking to. He groaned as he opened his eyes, a line of light shining from under his blinds and meeting his tired eyes. He was exhausted but he knew he had to get up and start studying some more. His mum had begged him the night before to take a day off (she could see how much the lack of sleep and over-studying was affecting him) and hang out with Ajax. Samuel told her he could hang out with her all summer-long. Ajax wasn't going anywhere in his eyes, and neither was he.

He swung his legs over the bed, and placed his feet on the cold, hard wood floor. He didn't want to eat breakfast yet, so he shuffled over to his window and pulled up his blinds. He let out a long yawn as he sat down at his desk, glancing at his calendar. Only a few days were left until their exams began. All of the immense pressure would finally be lifted from his shoulders. Then he thought of Ajax and Lola – and the fact that they would be getting married – and he felt overwhelmingly upset.

What was he supposed to do about it?

For a second as he subconsciously reached for his maths book, he thought about how he would confess to Ajax. They would be sitting by the pier watching the waves crash against the sand and feeling the warmth beneath them. They would be munching on some ice-cream, and then Ajax would start talking about his wedding day. How he was looking forward to it, and how he wished he hadn't taken advantage of Lola for so long...

Yeah, it was wrong. He wouldn't think any further. He let out a sad sigh, flipping through the pages until he found where he left off. He started doing some simultaneous equations and about two hours later, his mum knocked on his bedroom door. He stood up and opened it as she entered with a tray in her hands. On the tray, there was a small plate with two slices of buttered toast and a cup of weak tea. He loved his tea very milky, with two sugars. Ajax (and most people he knew) called him a weirdo for enjoying milky tea but he didn't care.

"Oh, I thought you were still sleeping. You're very quiet this morning," she giggled, setting it on his desk beside his work, "you've usually had breakfast and lunch by now."  
"Thanks, mum" he replied.  
She sat down on his bed, right where Ajax had sat the previous evening, and crossed her legs.  
"I was on the phone with Macy this morning," she suddenly said, "about your magic."

"Mhm?"  
"And she says she still thinks it's a good idea. The best we've got."  
"But how am I supposed to train without a tutor?"  
"Well, you see, Macy has a friend in London who is a head witch of her coven as well. The Gem coven. She says she will contact her and see if she will take both you and Ajax as students."

"Ah, right. When will we hear back?" he questioned.  
"Hopefully by tomorrow. Potentially tonight."

"I guess that's rather exciting..." Samuel said, looking down at the plate of toast. He picked up a slice and started to eat it slowly. He wasn't really in the mood for food but he was starving.  
"Do you really think that?"  
"No, but it has to be done. So, I will do it."  
His mum took a deep, sad breath and then squeezed his shoulder gently as she stood up.  
"You will do great, baby. You will do me and your dad proud."  
"Mhm."

Doing dad proud, huh?

She gave him a gentle smile, then left him alone, turning around to look at him before she did. He knew she wasn't looking forward to any of it. She was just as excited about it as Samuel was, but she was trying to remain as optimistic as possible, even mentioning his dad, a rare occurrence. That was fine. He wasn't supposed to be moving to London until September for university, but it looked like he would be moving sooner. He wondered how Lola would take the news, and how she will cope with being away from her fiancé for so long.

When he thought that, he felt a pain in his chest. He ignored it, thinking it was nothing to worry about, he was just hurt, and munched down his toast as quickly as possible so that he could focus his attention on his studies. He drank his tea, every last drop, and then he realised that Ajax would ask him to be his best man (most probably) so he would have to be happy for him...even if it was just acting.

Meanwhile, Macy was pacing her kitchen. She knew Samuel could handle it, the storm that was coming for them all. She knew the whole time what he was capable of, since the moment he was born. He was a special kid. The only issue that would arise would be convincing Sapphire of the same, and convincing her to take him as her student. She would take Ajax no problem, he was a pure-blood. Samuel, on the other hand, was a half-blood. It wouldn't be so easy to convince her that Samuel was the one who would bring about the collapse of the darkness.

For thousands of years, Vampire cults terrorised generations of witches and occults alike. They tortured and brutally killed humans and other species. Samuel's father was no exception to this. It was prophesised that a male witch would take down their leader. The leader was originally believed to be Arthur Moonstone, Artemis Moonstone's older brother, but Macy believed it was much deeper than that. She believed it all boiled down to Artemis himself, and his son, Jasper Moonstone.

Jasper and Lola did not share the same mother. Jasper was born in 1967, 300 years after Artemis Moonstone became a vampire himself. His mother, Artemis's first wife, Bella Moonstone, was killed by a warlock after she attacked him in the dark woods. It turned out she had been left there to starve. Presumably by Artemis, though nobody questioned him.

He did not marry again until the year before Ajax and Samuel were born. Then to a vampire obsessed witch, Wanda. She became a vampire, and a Moonstone, and birthed Lola. She died three years later, of unknown causes. It was highly likely that Artemis was once again involved, and had the murder covered up.

Macy didn't want her son marrying into that family – but what could she do?  
Artemis Moonstone wanted his heir – and she knew exactly what he was up to. Her Ajax was a powerful warlock, despite not wanting to practice magic, but Samuel was far stronger. But his hatred for Maximus Ainsley was what caused him to choose her son. The fact that Maximus's killer was his brother. He seemed to believe it was his fault that his brother was locked up in Hexia for an eternity – never to be released.

Macy was about to call Sapphire when Ajax came through the front door and into the kitchen. He looked gloomy, and depressed. Like he had just received the worst news possible.  
"Where were you all night?" she questioned him worriedly. She crossed her arms over her chest, though, to let him know she was serious.  
"I stayed in Lola's" he said.  
"I hope you used protection."  
"Mum, what the hell?!"  
"Just saying, kiddo. We don't want any accidents and I'm not ready to be grandmother."

"There won't be."  
"How are you so sure?" she asked him.  
He shrugged. She hoped he at least used a bloody condom.  
"How's Sammy?" she asked him, then.  
"How would I know? I assume he's alright."  
"Did you two fight last night?"  
"No, mum. What's with the twenty questions?"  
"I'm worried about you two. That's all. Please don't get snappy with me, Ajax."

"There's nothing to worry about. We can take care of ourselves."  
"Not true. Sammy relies so heavily on you for support and protection."  
He gave her a sad look, then shifted his gaze to the wall behind her, "mhm."  
"I'd hate to see you two fight. You're all he has."  
"We're not fighting, I just haven't talked to him since last night. I'll text him in a minute."  
"Good."

She knew something was up, but she also knew Ajax wasn't going to be honest with her. She had no choice but to try to find out for herself. Had it got something to do with the Moonstone's?

Ajax gave her a small nod, then left the room and headed upstairs. Macy picked her mobile phone up off the counter and scrolled through her contacts until she found Sapphire's number.  
"Ooh looky who's calling me," came Sapphire's thick, English accent, "it's been a long time."  
"It has" Macy giggled.

"The last time I seen you, you were sneaking out of my bed."  
She huffed, "I apologise."  
"Ah, it's all okay. No hard feelings, it was only one night. Now, why have you called me after all this time?"  
"I have a request" Macy said.

"Do tell."  
"As it turns out, the son of Maximus Ainsley is potentially being targeted by followers of Arthur Moonstone."  
"Maximus Ainsley had a son?!"

"Yeah, his name is Samuel Blaze. His mother and I think he is the prophesized bringer of light."  
Macy heard Sapphire gasp and drop a cup in the background. A loud smash echoed through the phone.  
"Are you certain?!"  
"Not completely, but his bloodline speaks for itself, don't you think?"  
"Oh, yes. Indeed."

"There is one small issue, though," Macy said nervously, biting her bottom lip.  
"What is that?"  
"His mother is, well...she's not a witch."

"He's a half-blood?!" Sapphire exclaimed, "you think a half-blood is the chosen one?"  
"Are we really using that term now? 'The chosen one'? Don't you trust me, Saph?"  
It was Sapphire's turn to huff, "You owe me one if I take this kid under my wing and he turns out to be a disappointment."

"I can assure you that you will not be disappointed. I request you take my son as well."  
"Ah, young Ajax must be in his late teens by now, hm?"  
"He's just turned eighteen."  
"Ah, they grow up so fast. How do they plan to get here? I don't really feel comfortable driving long distances."

"Chaska will be paying their rent in London when they go there in September for university."  
"I want them here ASAP, Macy. If things really are as dangerous as they seem, Samuel Blaze needs to learn to control his magic within a few weeks."  
"They have their A-levels in a few days."  
"I want them here straight after. No excuses."  
"Fair, I will bring them as soon as their exams are finished, and I will contact Chaska about it."  
"Okay. You owe me one hell of a date if this plan falls through."

Macy giggled again, "understood."  
"See you soon, I assume?"  
"I will be in contact about when. Thank you so much, Saph."  
"Any time."

They both hung up the phone at the same time and Macy leaned against the counter, emitting a small, relieved sigh.  
"She's going to take them," she whispered to herself. Her heart was honestly thumping throughout the entire call. She really thought Sapphire wouldn't agree to take a half-blood. Now all that was left was to let Vivian know the plan. She was going to be devastated that Samuel had to leave earlier than expected.

It had to be done. She couldn't stand to think it but – Sammy couldn't die, not yet. He was their only hope. Heh, who knew the world would be relying on a half-blood? Not Macy. She assumed Maximus would survive. She assumed he would be the one to return the world to the light. Now the fate of the entire world lied on Samuel's small shoulders.

Poor kid. He had no idea what was coming for him.

As for Ajax, he was sitting upstairs on his bed. He wanted to let it all out. Scream. Shout. Roar. Cry. Smash his mirror, and his windows, and rip up all of his study notes. Instead, he lacked the energy to do ANY of that. Samuel was his entire world and had been since they were babies. His very first memory was playing with Samuel on a swing in the park. Poor kid fell, and cracked his head open on the pavement. He cried so hard, and he was so scared. He kept clinging to Ajax, destroying them both with blood. Ajax held his hand in the ambulance, despite his mother's demands that he not go with him. He cried because Macy wasn't going to let him go, and so she let him and met them there. Vivian came too, but Samuel had begged for Ajax.

Ajax kept asking him over and over if he was okay, because the paramedics had warned them to keep him awake. They said if he fell asleep, he might not wake up for a long time. Ajax couldn't stand the thought of being away from him, not being able to talk to him and play with him. So, he did everything he could to keep him awake. He kept poking his nose and making him giggle. He kept telling him lame duck jokes and saying, "it's going to be okay, Sammy. I'm here."  
He'd smile when Ajax said that. Really wide. Even through his pain, Samuel tried to smile and laugh. He tried to play. He was the sunshine in Ajax's life. The brightest thing. The most innocent, beautiful person he had ever met. Ever since then, he had relied on Ajax completely, and Ajax liked to imagine he was Samuel's hero. That's why hearing him say it made his heart swell with delight, and he fell in love with him even more.

Ajax always beat up the bullies for Samuel. He would make his pain disappear; he would make it all better. He had crossed every, single line for that boy (and he'd cross many more if he asked him to), even getting suspended from school, and receiving detentions for fighting. The fact was, Samuel was hopeless. He was silly, and clumsy, and he couldn't take care of himself. The kid couldn't even stand without almost toppling over sometimes.

How would he ever cope without him?

How would he ever meet a girl and have kids? How was he going to take care of them, his family? But most importantly, how was he going to take care of himself? HIS needs and desires? As much as it pained Ajax, it was going to happen, and he wouldn't be there to help. He wouldn't get to be his best man. Would Samuel find a friend to replace him at university, who can do all of that for him?

Ajax often found himself wondering what a mini Samuel would look like. Probably just like him. Big, blue eyes with long, black, curled lashes. Thick raven hair. He had always had a thick head of hair. Freckles dashed across his nose and cheeks, and random freckles across his collarbones and up his arms. He had a small, dark one right above his left nipple, too.

Ajax knew all the small details of Samuel. His son wouldn't look much different. Then he found himself imagining what sort of girls he's even into. He had never talked about it with him, and Ajax had never asked. He would be far too jealous hearing his response. He assumed she'd be smaller than him, petite, with dark hair too and beautiful blue eyes. She'd be a housewife, Sammy would be a lawyer, bringing home the bacon. He'd love it that way, though. He was that type of family man, and a hard worker.

When Ajax tried to imagine him coming home to his perfect household, he found himself unable to do so. Instead, he pictured himself walking through the front door. The minute he turned the key in the lock and pressed down the handle, there was a toddler in view, but he looked different. The baby looked like both him and Samuel. Somehow, someway. His mum had told him it was possible to 'make' a baby with magic. She said it hadn't been done for hundreds of years, though. For a moment, to Ajax it was a perfectly reachable goal.

Dark skin, but big, blue eyes. He could imagine when he looked at him, that he demanded he have Samuel's eyes. His eyelashes are super long, black and curled. He stumbled towards him, and he could instantly tell he's half Samuel, because he was struggling to walk without falling over despite his age. Ajax headed towards him, scooping him up into his arms. He kissed his cute face, asking him how his day was and telling him he missed him. He was giggling and referring to him as, "daddy." Then he looked up, and straight ahead and standing in the kitchen doorframe is Samuel, wearing a suit. He was beaming from ear to ear and holding a toddler toy in one hand.

"Welcome home!" he beamed.

Ajax walked towards him and kissed him passionately. Even the thought made his heart thump, and butterflies bashed against his stomach. His mind became completely blank, and then he snapped out of his daydream and realised it was never going to become a reality. Every decision he had made up until that point had influenced that. Dating Lola was a bad decision. He did that to himself, now he had to pay the price.

That price was losing Samuel forever. That was his punishment for not being true to himself. Maybe had he told Samuel; he might have felt the same way about him. Now, he would never know. Samuel, how could he say goodbye to him after all that time? How could he betray him like that, after everything they had done for each other?

He was a traitor. Not just to Samuel, but to himself as well.

CHAPTER SIX: CURSED

Macy couldn't help but feel like she was cursed.

First, she fell in love with her best friend who she realistically couldn't have. She had been in love with Vivian since they were teenagers, and then they began a romantic affair shortly before Maximus's death. When Maximus died, Vivian was so overcome with guilt, she ended their relationship. It was for the best, for sure, but Macy had been left heartbroken. Then her own marriage fell apart, and Chaska moved to Scotland for his career.

Now, she was about to lose her son, too. The only consistent thing in her life was magic, her coven, but she couldn't help but feel like that would all end too. She reluctantly found herself standing outside the Moonstone manor that night, clinging to the bars of the gate and trying to force it open.

"Fuck!" she yelled, kicking the gate and just as she was about to give up, the gates started to creak open. She released the bars from her grasp, then trudged up the driveway towards the massive home. Nothing about it seemed homely, though, especially when she reached the front door and caught the cold draft when the butler opened the door.

"Welcome, Ms. Acton. We've been expecting you" he smirked, stepping aside to allow her to enter.  
"Hm. Thanks."  
She stood awkwardly in the hallway while the butler closed the front door behind her. She looked around at the fancy decor. The house was far from modern. It was beautifully decorated, yet it felt cold and bare.

"Follow me, please" Aaron said, motioning with his hand for her to follow him to the left. Macy did just that, walking closely behind him. Artemis mustn't have trusted her not to wander.

He stopped in front of a dark wood door, tapping on it loudly.  
"Sir, Ms. Acton has arrived."  
"Bring her in" came Artemis's cold tone. Aaron opened the door, and then stepped back so that Macy could enter. As soon as she did, he closed the door and left her alone in the room with Artemis Moonstone. She wasn't afraid of him, she never had been, despite the many stories she had heard about him and his violent ways.

"I could smell you from down the street" he spoke, standing up from his armchair and facing her.  
"Hm. I'll take that as a compliment."  
"You should," he said, approaching her slowly, "it means that your blood is good and strong."  
"Much like Ajax's?"

"Exactly like Ajax's" he replied, "the son of a pure-blood native American Warlock, and a pure-blood English witch. A perfect heir."

Macy glared at him harshly, "what is your plan with my son?"  
"I think you already know my plans. The inevitable."  
"You plan on turning my son, don't you?"  
"There's no other way."

"Are you insane?!" she yelled at him.  
"What? You don't want your son to live happily forever? As a rich man? With a beautiful woman on his arm?"

"No, as a matter of fact – I don't."  
"How selfish" he sighed.  
"Listen, Artemis. I love my son. And I know what he really wants, and it's not your daughter or immortality."  
"Oh yes. He'd rather live a short, boring life with one Samuel Blaze Ainsley than a happy immortal one, I know. That feeling won't always last. He thinks he would be happy with him but that is untrue."

"It's not untrue. Ajax adores Sammy, and Sammy adores him."  
"You fail to see that love and adoration is not enough. The times may be different than when I was a human, but men laying with men is still a sin. Society will never accept them as a legitimate couple. They are sick, and Lola can heal your son."  
"You're sick" she snarled at him, "my Ajax is not sick, there is nothing wrong with who he is."

"Did you share that same opinion when your dear husband lay with man after man?"  
Macy pursed her lips, "of course not. Not immediately. That was different."  
"Perhaps, yet you still told him he was disgusting."  
"Stop. Reading. My. Mind."

He smirked with satisfaction, "as clever as ever, dear Macy. You will make the perfect in-law until your unfortunate death many years from now."

"Artemis, I want you to cancel this wedding."  
"Cancel it?!" he laughed, "I would never. Not when I'm so close."  
Macy growled lowly, "then I'll end it."  
"Good luck, dear."

"You won't have any control over my Ajax for much longer" she said, backing away from him towards the drawing room door, "you'll see."  
She reached behind her for the door handle, not trusting him completely, and then left the room as soon as she opened the door, slamming it behind her.

Artemis Moonstone smirked yet again, closing his eyes and leaning his head back slightly.  
"Ah. You're so wrong, my dear. It's you who will see."  
He opened his eyes, looking into the fire he always had lit, green eyes gleaming sinisterly, "I own him."

CHAPTER SEVEN: LUCK

Exam day came so quickly.

Samuel's stomach was doing somersaults. The nerves were so bad, his mum had to give him a shot of whiskey to calm him from the kitchen press. He had stopped shaking after a while, but as they approached the school in the car, he started shaking again.

"You'll do great, Sammy," she told him as she pulled into a parking space outside the school gate. Samuel nodded; he could barely talk.

"I'm just scared, mum."  
"I know, sweetie, but trust me. You've worked so hard; you know all the material. There's no way you won't get into UCL."  
He bopped his leg up and down a few times like Ajax, then he opened the car door as soon as he saw Ajax waiting for him by the gate. Ajax was looking in his direction, and he could tell he was nervous too because he was pacing.

"Good luck!" his mum yelled just as he closed the door. He gave her a small smile and a wave, and she returned the gestures before reversing out of the pace carefully. Samuel waved at her as she drove off, then approached Ajax.  
"Sammy!" he said happily as Samuel approached him. He seemed so relieved to see him. Samuel was almost tripping over himself, and Ajax was laughing at him.  
"Shut up!" Samuel chuckled, "I'm nervous!"  
"Me too, you don't see me stumbling around."  
"My legs are shaking like crazy" Samuel groaned.  
"Aww," Ajax chuckled, tilting his head to the side, "poor baby."

Samuel laughed and rolled his eyes playfully.  
"How are you ever going to live without me, hm?" Ajax laughed.

Samuel looked up at him with an astonished look on his face because of that statement. When Ajax saw his reaction, he realised what he said, and his mouth hung open.  
"What is that supposed to mean?" Samuel asked quietly.  
"No, nothing."

'Fuck, fuck, fuck" was all Ajax could think.  
Samuel looked devastated, and he wasn't sure what to say or do.

"Do you not want to be my friend anymore or something?" he asked even quieter.  
"Why would you say that?!" Ajax questioned, shuffling his feet.  
"Because you just asked how I'm supposed to live without you. That implies I will have to."  
Ajax wasn't sure what to say to him, and then just as he goes to open his mouth and emit a small squeak, Lola tapped him on the shoulder from behind.

He turned around to see her standing there with her hands behind her back. Usually she was smiling, but that day, she wasn't.  
"Hey, babe?" Ajax smiled.  
"Can we talk before the exam really quick?" she asked. Ajax went to look at Sammy, but he was already walking away from him.  
"See ya around, I guess."  
"Sammy, I-"  
"See ya" he repeated.

Ajax stared after him, then let out a sad sigh. He turned to face Lola. Bad timing, Lola.  
"Um..." she started, looking down at the ground, "we have a problem."  
"Oh, what's wrong?" he asked, stepping towards her and holding onto her shoulders gently. She looked up at him, swallowing hard.

"I think I'm pregnant."  
Ajax was so taken aback by the statement that he gasped and stumbled backwards away from her. She bit down on her bottom lip, looking away from him again.  
"But how?!"  
"We, we didn't exactly use protection last time" she said sadly.  
His mother's words were ringing in his mind. He should have used a condom.

"Lola, I... you know. Pulled out."  
"That doesn't always work, Ajax."

He held his head in his hands and spun around, walking the other way for a few steps, then he turned back around to face her.  
"Lola, this can't happen."  
"Why not?"  
"Because I want to go to university first! I want to see the world and spend more time with Sammy."  
"It's always Sammy, Sammy, Sammy," she grumbled crossly, "you'd swear he was your lover."

Ajax pursed his lips. He wished. She let out a sigh.  
"I'm sorry, that was out of line" she said apologetically, "I know he's your best friend."

Ajax ignored her statement.  
"This is a serious problem if you are, Lola. I'm not a vampire yet, so the baby will be a hybrid. That goes against your dad's wishes."  
"He'll get over it!" she insisted, "I'm his little girl. He'll forgive me."  
"And what about me? He will never forgive me."

"Look, it's not even 100 yet."  
"Well I hope you're not."

"Why are you being so horrible about this, Ajax?" she asked sadly. She was about to cry; he could see it in her eyes. He didn't want to make her cry, but this was all true.  
"We're not married yet, Lola. It's better to get married, turn me, wait a few years until I graduate and get a job and then we can have babies. Besides, I'll be miles away in London and you will be here. On your own. With a baby. On top of all this, Sammy and I have you learn to use our magic."  
"Why...?" she asked.

"It's personal. I don't want you getting upset that I'm not telling you, it's Sammy's business."

She remained silent for a few seconds, "We'll be late. Come on."  
"Lola-"  
"It's fine, Ajax. Sammy will always be put before me and our future children."  
"You don't even know if you're pregnant or not!" Ajax scoffed, not denying that.

"Well are you willing to be here if I am?" she questioned.  
"Be here in Brighton? No. Be here for you in general? Absolutely. You should know me by now, we've been dating for years."

This wasn't how things were supposed to be. Mr. Moonstone was going to murder him if she was pregnant, and probably the child too. He was praying so hard she wasn't. Dammit. He hadn't prayed since he was in Primary school, but he was begging the Lord above that she wasn't pregnant.

If by some magical chance Mr. Moonstone didn't kill him, his own mother sure would. This wasn't the type of news he needed to hear right before his maths exam.  
"That's fair enough. I can't expect you to give up your dreams for me."  
"That's right."

She motioned with her head towards the school, "let's get going. I'm sorry I told you right before the exam. I just can't stand carrying the thought all alone."  
"Yeah, it's okay."

Ajax took her hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. He could tell she wanted to be pregnant. She wanted to marry him sooner and being pregnant was the perfect excuse to do that. He was already upset enough as it was, and Samuel was angry with him, and everything was just piling up in his mind. It was becoming too much so quickly. How was he ever going to get an A star in the exam? He would not be able to concentrate after that.

They entered the exam hall, and he immediately spotted Samuel sitting across the room. He looked up at Ajax as he entered, then looked away. He couldn't stand it. He needed Samuel to be happy at all times. He went to walk across the room to quickly talk to him, but the principal stopped him by calling him over. He was standing behind him, right by the hall door. Ajax approached him quickly.  
"Good luck today, Mr. Acton."

"Thank you, sir" Ajax said, giving him a brief smile before the examiner announced they had to get to their seats immediately. He checked the board, finding his exam number, then his seat. He was seats away from Samuel – yet he kept watching his back. Samuel didn't turn around to see where he was like he had during the GCSE's. He kept looking back at Ajax and grinning. It had been the sweetest thing ever – yet the most distracting. How was he supposed to concentrate when the possibility of looking into Samuel's handsome face was there?

Ajax glanced down at his table as soon as the examiner announced the exam was started. He turned over his exam paper and booklet. He was feeling so, so stressed but he was trying not to panic at that moment. This was his entire future, he needed to pass. He looked up at the clock, 9am. He kept bopping his foot up and down, because he was so nervous about a multitude of things.

Firstly, he was worried that Samuel would find out he can't be his friend for much longer. Secondly, he was worried about his exam, and thirdly, he was worried that Lola might be pregnant and, in that moment, it all became too much for him to handle. Before he could even register, his breathing was heavy, yet short, and he could feel pins and needles in his face and fingers. He was having a panic attack, that was certain to him. He looked around for the closest examiner, but he was already beside him in seconds, having noticed and asking was he okay. He shook his head over and over, unable to speak because he was literally hyperventilating. He was hot and sweating and the examiner helped him stand then lead him out the double doors of the PE hall.

He pulled up a chair, and helped Ajax take a seat by the door. Ajax took deep breaths of cool, but it wasn't working. The examiner advised him to put his head in his lap, so he did, and he immediately started to feel better.  
"You can stay here for a few minutes until you feel better," he told him, "would you like me to get anyone for you?"  
"Sammy, please" Ajax replied without hesitation.  
"Who?"

"Samuel Blaze Ainsley," he said, realising he had no idea who 'Sammy' was, "please."

The examiner approached one of the younger students guarding phones by the hall door, and asked him if he knew Samuel. The student nodded.  
"Can you get him for me, please?" he asked the student, who went inside to find Samuel. Ajax was shaking so much from the fright of the attack, he really thought he was going to faint or something. His breathing was slowly returning to normal, and the numbness in his fingers and face had disappeared almost completely.

Samuel emerged from the hall behind the student, who entered the boys loo. The examiner left them alone, returning to the hallway, saying he would come to check on him and send them back in soon.  
"Are you okay?" Samuel asked worriedly, "I saw you leaving but they wouldn't let me go see if you were alright."  
"I'm scared" Ajax admitted. Samuel looked surprised to hear that, as if Ajax was in capable of that feeling. He pulled a chair up beside him and sat really close.  
"Talk to me."

" I'm not ready to get married," Ajax said, "she's' not right for me."  
"I know," Samuel nodded, "that much is obvious. So, you need to call it off."  
"I can't."  
"Look what it's doing to you, Ajax. You can't keep this up" Samuel insisted, "why can't you call it off?"

"She might be pregnant."  
Samuel looked down at his lap, "yeah. That's a problem alright."

"I'm going to get her a pregnancy test tonight," Ajax said, "as the guy it's my duty to make sure this is all okay but...I'm scared, Sammy."  
"Don't be" he said, "she's probably not even pregnant. At least, I hope not."  
"Sammy, I don't want to freak you out" Ajax started, "and I want this exam to go so smoothly for you because you deserve all the success in the world."  
"What's going on?" Samuel blinked at him, feeling worried and scared. Ajax could tell by the look on his face that he was frightened. It wasn't the appropriate time to tell him, but he had to.

"Mr. Moonstone threatened me."

"Wait - WHAT?!" he exclaimed, "is that why you're going through with this?! Ajax, you have to tell your mum."  
"Don't tell her, Sammy, promise me" Ajax said sternly, "this is something she will fret over all the time, but she can't help us."  
"Then who can?!"  
"We can. Well, you can."  
"What exactly are you talking about?"

"Isn't it obvious. You've got the very power to crush Mr. Moonstone running through your veins and you don't even realise it."

"Are you suggesting we kill him?" he whispered.  
"No, I'm not."  
"Phew. Then?"  
Ajax looked Samuel deeply in the eyes, "we need to have him sent to Hexia. It's the only way we can win. He's immortal, after all."  
"Ah-ah. How do we do that?"  
"We prove his guilt. We'll talk about this later. I'll text you once Lola leaves and we can talk more in depth. We can't talk here.  
He shifted his eyes around just as the student left the loo.  
"O-okay" Samuel nodded.

"He threatened to hurt you, Sammy" he admitted, "and I won't let him do that."  
Samuel felt even more terrified.  
"I'll defend you until I die. You know that."  
"Ajax!" he exclaimed sadly, "stop talking like that!"  
"But I can't protect you forever. You have to learn to defend yourself."

Just as Samuel went to respond, the principal emerged from the hall.  
"Feeling better, Mr Acton?" he questioned.

"Yes, sir" Ajax replied, standing up and motioning for Samuel to follow him into the hall, "we'll talk more later. Good luck, you'll do great."  
"You too" Samuel said, and Ajax couldn't tell if he was mad or sad.  
They entered the hallway and took their seats again. Lola turned to look at him, but Ajax looked down at his paper and started to read through it. He figured it was time to think their relationship over.

As soon as the exam was over, Ajax met Lola outside the hallway and they walked to the closest pharmacy. He entered the store, approaching the desk and let out a small cough to get the older woman's attention.  
"I'd like to purchase a pregnancy test" he said quietly. The woman glanced over him, and he knew she was aware he was not yet a grown adult. Lola was waiting outside while he got judged inside. He paid for the test, and he left the pharmacy quickly. He spotted Lola talking to someone, and as he got closer, he realised it was his MUM. Fucking fantastic.

Ajax approached them, trying his hardest to keep the paper bag out of his mother's sight and by his side. His mum spotted it immediately.

"I went to pick you up from school, but you weren't there."  
"Sorry, mum. I needed some hay fever tablets" he said, faking a sniff. Lola cringed. His mum raised both brows suspiciously, and he knew she didn't believe him and was going to question it more later.

"Okay. Where are you kids going now?"  
"We're heading to our house" Ajax said, "can we have a lift?"  
"Of course," Macy said, starting to walk in the direction of her parked car. They followed close behind her. Ajax's dad had offered to buy him a car for his 17th birthday, but he had declined. In that moment, he wished he hadn't declined. He just didn't want to be that spoiled kid rolling up to school on his 17th birthday with a brand new, fancy car, you know? None of the other kids in his class had had one.

As soon as they got home, Lola and Ajax headed upstairs and his mother went into the kitchen, Ajax handed Lola the paper bag with the pregnancy test inside.  
"Come out straight after. We're doing this together" he told her, trying to be supportive. Sh nodded and nervously left the room with the bag in her hands. He figured it was really kicking in now for her, the reality that she might be pregnant, and she was realising how unprepared they BOTH were.

He heard her lock the main bathroom door, and he sat down on his bed and took deep breaths.  
"Calm down, it's okay" he repeated to himself in a whisper over and over. Within a few minutes, Lola returned with the test flat in her hands. She placed it down on his bedroom locker. They paced the room, waiting nervously for a few minutes, then she picked up the test in one swift movement and stared at it.

"Not pregnant" she said. There it was. In black print on a digital. NOT PREGNANT. HALLELUJAH.

"That's good!" he exclaimed, "right?"  
Lola didn't reply. In fact, she looked devastated by this.  
"Lola?"  
"Ajax...would it really be so bad?" she questioned. Ajax pursed his lips, then sighed. Here we go.  
"Yeah, it would."  
"Why though?"  
"Because, Lola. I don't want to have a baby with you."

She looked stunned by his confession, "like, ever?"  
"Ever."

"Why?!" she yelled angrily, causing Ajax to flinch. She looked like she wanted to slap him.  
"Is there something wrong with me?!"  
"No, not at all. Don't think that."  
"Do you not think I'd be a good mum?! Do you not think I'm a good person?!"  
"That's not what I-"  
She started to cry, cutting him off immediately.

"Lola, please."

Lola had exhausted all her options. She had gone over this a thousand times in her head over the years, ever since she and Ajax became a couple. Thinking maybe she wasn't good enough. Thinking maybe her dad was scaring him away. Thinking Samuel hated her so Ajax was unsure of her, or maybe it was his mum who hated her. She hated to admit it, but the only thing left was that.

"You're gay, aren't you?"  
"H-huh?"  
"I've known it for a long time. I kept trying to tell myself that it wasn't true. I love you, Ajax. You're my soulmate."  
Soulmates...

"We can pretend that's not it. That you're not gay...we'll get married soon and you can go off with as many men as you like."  
"Lola, stop degrading yourself like that."  
"I'm not! We-we can just be married friends. I'll be loyal to you, but you don't have to be loyal to me. I understand. We don't have to discuss it; you can just do it."  
"You're sounding super desperate right now" he admitted, "you're worth more than this."

She started to sob into her hands. Ajax approached her and pulled her into his chest, where she cries hard. Lola was always cold to the touch. Samuel was warm. He knew which one he preferred. It was time she got over him, it was time they both moved on.  
"I am," he admitted, "I am gay. I'm sorry. I can't marry you, and I won't. You deserve more than fake love."

She sobbed harder and he cradled her for a while because he hated that he had hurt her. He hated the thought of what her father would do, too.

"So that's it?" she croaked out, pulling away from him, "it's over, just like that?"  
"I'm sorry," he said after a few seconds. She nodded, leaning up on her tippy-toes and pressing her lips to his one last time. He kissed her back, just to make her feel better. She stroked his cheek. When he looked into her eyes, he seen so much pain...and he felt so guilty. Then he remembered that if she found out he was only marrying her because he was being forced to it would hurt her even more, and he felt a tiny bit better knowing he had done the right thing.

She pulled away completely, picking up her school bag from his bedroom floor. He had brought it in for her.

"I'll see you soon. Friends?" she said weakly.  
"Of course," he replied, giving her a slight smile. She returned the smile. Lola was a good woman, she really was, and she would make someone very happy someday. It just wasn't him.  
She turned on her heel and paused in the doorway. He watched her turn around.  
"You need to tell him."  
"Tell who what?"  
"Sammy. That you're in love with him."  
Ajax's eyes widened.

"It's okay, Ajax. I can tell he loves you too."

Ajax couldn't bring himself to reply, and he didn't know what to say. Lola left then, whipping the test up off the locker and shoving it into her bag as she walked down the hallway. He listened as the front door clicked shut a few minutes later and then his mum came upstairs and entered his bedroom.

"I heard all the yelling" she said calmly. Ajax nodded.  
"It's over."  
"It is?" she blinked, why?"  
"I had a change of heart" he replied simply.

"Oh...are you okay?" she asked sadly.

"Better than ever" he smiled. Macy smiled in return, feeling happy it was all over.  
"Well, almost..." he continued.

His mum sat down on his bed and patted the space beside her. He took a seat beside her, knowing it was time to tell her the truth. It was time to come out. He didn't know why he hid it exactly. His mum had always been supportive of LGBTQ+ rights. She always expressed that, same with his dad. Well, his dad was gay himself. He supposed that maybe since his mum had been married to a gay man who hurt her, she might resent them deep inside. But his mum was not like that.

"Eh...so..." he began, and he started to bop his leg again. She was smiling reassuringly at him.  
"I don't like...girls" he admitted breathlessly, "I like boys. I mean, I like a boy, but my gender preference is...boys."

Macy giggled loudly, and Ajax was slightly taken aback by her reaction.  
"Oh, Ajax" she said, taking his hand and stroking it gently, "I know."

"You-You do?"  
"Of course, I do, I'm your mama."  
"That's...that's good" Ajax chuckled lowly.

"You've always loved him," she said, sighing happily, as if her dreams were finally coming true. Ajax quirked a brow.

"Sammy," she continued, "and he loves you too."  
"That's what Lola said but...I don't see it."  
"That's because you're afraid," she said, stroking his hand again, "give it a chance."  
"Um...I guess I can try."

"Do or do not, there is no try" she giggled, quoting his favourite movie character of all time. Ajax laughed, realising she (and Yoda) were right.  
"I will."

She stroked his hair gently, "good boy. You're my pride and joy, and you're his too."  
"You think so?"  
"I know so."

"I have to call him over," Ajax said, taking a nervous breath, "this is all happening so quickly."  
"Take your time if you need to."  
"I've waited long enough," he argued, standing up and reaching for his phone which he had left on his desk before the exam. He sent Samuel a quick text, but he asked him to meet him by the pier instead. He agreed. He grabbed his favourite red Hollister hoodie.  
"Good luck – go get your boy" his mum said, hugging him tightly. Ajax's heart was racing in his chest, and he was so excited.

He was about to confess. It was really happening.

CHAPTER EIGHT: BOYFRIENDS?

Ajax arrived at the pier before Samuel. He took a seat by the water, letting out a happy sigh. It was really happening, he was going to confess to Samuel, and hopefully everyone would be right about Samuel feeling the same way. He looked up when he heard footsteps approaching him, and seen Samuel smiling down at him.

"How did it go?" Samuel asked, a hint of nerves in his voice.  
"Not pregnant" Ajax grinned, and Samuel grinned too. He honestly felt relieved that Ajax wasn't going to become a dad anytime soon. Ajax patted the sand beside him, and Samuel took a seat next to him, also letting out a happy sigh. The sun was high in the sky, and it wasn't so cloudy. It was the perfect day.

"I broke up with her," Ajax then said. Samuel snapped his head in Ajax's direction, shocked.

"Why?" Samuel questioned with a surprised tone.  
"It wasn't right, you know?"  
"I know."  
Ajax's entire body was quivering, and his heart was beating so fast. Thankfully, the other didn't notice his nerves due to his surprise.

"I'm glad you realised that" Samuel said, shifting slightly closer to him. His movements made Ajax's heart beat quicken even more.  
"Sammy?"  
"Mhm?"

Ajax's mouth opened and closed a few times. He was struggling to speak.  
"Can I ask you something...personal?"  
"Go ahead" Samuel blinked. His beautiful blue eyes were glistening in the sunlight.

Ajax took a deep breath, then stood up quickly, "fuck, I'm such a coward."  
"Huh?!" Samuel stood up with him.  
"I can't."  
"Ajax you're the bravest guy I know. If you have something you need an opinion or advice on, please let me know."  
"It's so much more than that."

Samuel frowned. Not with anger, with confusion. To him, Ajax was brave and strong, this was a different Ajax than the one he knew.  
"Tell me" he said in a sweet, comforting voice. Ajax just wanted to grab him and kiss him but that was so inappropriate, especially since it would be Samuel's very first kiss. It had to be gentle. He had to get his feelings across in it.

Ajax took another deep breath, then stepped closer to him, "I'm in love with you."  
There. He said it. It was out there. Right in the open.  
"You-what?"

Samuel was shocked to the core. Did he just...?  
"I'm in love with you" Ajax repeated, the butterflies banging against his stomach. He was totally breathless.

"I always have been. This entire time, it's been all about you. Protecting you, keeping you safe. Loving you. Just you."  
Ajax looked down at the sandy beach floor, embarrassed. Samuel just stared at him. He knew he should say something. He knew he should tell him too, because he was afraid Ajax would get the wrong idea.  
"Me too," he confessed, "I'm in love with you too."  
He looked back up at Samuel, with those chocolate brown eyes that Samuel had loved for so long.  
"Is this real?" Samuel questioned quietly. He honestly wasn't sure. He never expected that to happen.

Ajax chuckled loudly. Before long, Ajax stood right in front of him, so close.  
"It's real."  
"Then..."  
Samuel reached up and caressed his cheek. It felt weird, but only because it was his first time doing that.  
"May I?" Ajax whispered, looking from Samuel's lips back to his eyes. Samuel had never been kissed before, but he wanted Ajax to be his first. He was always meant to be.  
"Please" Samuel whispered back.

Samuel closed his eyes, and then he felt Ajax's soft lips pressing against his. He gasped a little, then hesitantly wrapped his arms around his neck, and Ajax placed his hands on his hips.

Ajax licked Samuel's bottom lip, and he opened his mouth ever so slightly to allow him access. Their tongues danced together, and it hit Samuel that he was making out with Ajax. He snaked his hands up to Ajax's hair and tangled them in his dark locks. He moaned against Samuel's lips as he gently pulled on his hair. They were getting too carried away, but honestly it felt so good. It was years' worth of emotions coming out in one kiss.

He placed his warm hands up under Samuel's t-shirt and squeezed his hips. Samuel felt like he might bruise but he was fine with it. They both pull back suddenly, gasping for air. Ajax rested his forehead on Samuel's, panting.  
"Fuck," he panted, "that was hot."  
"It sure was" Samuel panted.

He had just had his first kiss, with his first love no less! He was swooning. Who knew kissing could be so hot? Probably everyone except him...

Ajax thought the kiss was unbelievable. For a first-time kisser, Samuel was amazing. He wanted to kiss him some more, he wanted to kiss him forever. He had already taken the plunge by confessing, then kissing him, but he was about to go even deeper.

"Boyfriends?" he quickly asked.  
It just blurted out without him even preparing himself – or Samuel. Samuel looked astonished, but then he gasped excitedly and jumped up and down a little bit. Ajax chuckled.  
"Yeah! Boyfriends!" came his adorable reply.

Ajax kissed him again, and again, and again, because he finally could. He was never going to stop. Lingering in the back of his mind was Mr. Moonstone and what he was going to do once Lola told him they split up. He wasn't going to let him ruin what he had with Samuel, he wasn't going to let him take Samuel away from him. He brushed that to the back of his mind, thinking to himself;

He's mine at last.

CHAPTER NINE: BOYFRIENDS.

Two weeks passed quickly, and their exams were now complete. Which also meant that Samuel and Ajax had been dating for two, whole weeks. Let's just say – they were far from disappointed with each other! Everything was going well; it was as perfect as they had always imagined. They had to go to London and train with Sapphire, just in case Samuel ended up in trouble. Samuel would have been incredibly nervous, but Ajax had reassured him that they were in it together, and that he wouldn't let anything bad happen to him.

Samuel felt like he relied on him too much, but Ajax claimed to love it.  
"It's okay, Sammy," he would say when Samuel brought it up, kissing his forehead, "knowing your safe keeps me sane."  
Whenever Ajax kissed Samuel, he felt tingles all over – especially in his chest, right where his heart was. It still felt so surreal, the fact that they were boyfriends. BOYFRIENDS. B-O-Y-F-R-I-E-N-D-S.

They couldn't begin to express how happy they were. They were so in love with each other, they both felt like they could easily burst. They kept thinking; 'Please God, never let this end.'

Ajax figured that their happiness was just a honeymoon period initially. He thought Mr. Moonstone would have had something to say about it by then, but he hadn't contacted him since the night he went to see him. It was two nights before they were set to move to London and Ajax and Samuel were having a sleepover at Samuel's place – their first sleepover as a couple. Samuel was getting changed in front of Ajax, and Ajax couldn't stop staring at him. He was just so gorgeous; he couldn't help it. He needed to stop before he got carried away.

Samuel put on some grey pyjama bottoms and he crawled into his bed beside Ajax. Ajax was crushed up against the wall, but he honestly didn't give a crap. Just being with Samuel was comforting enough.  
"Are you comfortable?" Samuel asked, snuggling up into Ajax's chest.  
"I am," Ajax whispered, kissing the top of Samuel's head, earning a sweet giggle.  
"Good."

"Are you worried about leaving your mum?" Ajax then asked. Samuel remained quiet for a couple of seconds, then he nodded. His hair tickled Ajax's bare chest.

"Don't be" Ajax said, unsure of what else to say.  
"Honestly, I'm worried that whoever is after me will come for her when I'm not here anymore" Samuel told him.

Ajax went to say, "it's you they're after," but that wouldn't help either of them feel better.  
"Sammy, my mum will protect her," Ajax said, cuddling him closer, "that's a promise."  
He chuckled, "you're right, I'm being silly."

"Mhm."  
"Ajax?" he suddenly called. Ajax looked down at him, and he was peering up at him with those beautiful blue eyes.

"I want to...you know, but if you don't want to that's okay."  
"Wait - what?"  
"There's no one else I'd rather take it."  
"Huh?"  
"Don't be a dumbass, Ajax. I want you to sleep with me."  
Right to the point.

"Um..."  
"But it's fine if you don't want to. I mean, it's still early days and I am a virgin, so I know it's a sensitive thing."

Ajax laughed, earning a frown from Samuel.  
"It's...no. It's not that I don't want to, I just don't believe that you" he poked Samuel's nose, "are ready for that behaviour young man."

He frowned even deeper.  
"That and – it's different than what I am used to."  
"How so?"  
"Well...you know. I have never had sex with a guy before. Just Lola. A girl. So..."  
He felt so awkward talking about that with Samuel. Even though he wanted to because believe me he WANTED to. He just felt like maybe Samuel wasn't ready. Maybe he was wrong. He did ask him.

"I know it's different but at least you have experience. I have zero, yet I'm asking you."  
Ajax snuggled into him some more.  
"Are you sure you want to?"  
"Positive."  
"Positively positive?"  
"Ajax just do it!" he exclaimed, then covered his mouth with his hand. Ajax laughed because he was 100% sure Samuel's mum heard him. Samuel was blushing so hard.

"Okay, let's start off slow, then. We can do something small because we have no lubricant."  
"How do we even sta-?"

Ajax cut him off by kissing him hard. Samuel froze up for a few seconds, but then Ajax felt his arms snake around his neck. Samuel opened his legs to allow Ajax to lay between them, not breaking the kiss for a single second. Samuel's breathing picked up when Ajax pressed their bodies together. Ajax was starting to feel so hot, his face clamming up. To Ajax, he was just so perfect. He wanted all of him. How could he ever tell him "no"?

"Ajax" Samuel moaned against his lips, and that was it. He lost it. He pulled away from a second, nuzzling his nose and then slid down the bed until he reached the bottom of Samuel's pants. Ajax looked up into his eyes, staring deeply. Samuel's eyes were filled with lust, but he was biting his lip because he was embarrassed, and his cheeks were like an apple – so red.

"You ready?" Ajax asked. Samuel nodded excitedly.  
"I'll make you feel really good" Ajax whispered.  
Judging by his reaction, it was a winner. By the end, Samuel was panting and covered with sweat.  
"Holy. Fucking. Shit" was all Samuel could say, "That. Was. AWESOME."

CHAPTER TEN: GOODBYE

Samuel was trying not to cry. Vivian was trying not to cry. There was so much sadness in the air, as they stood by the front door that morning. Mac and Ajax were waiting for him in the car. Ajax had told him to take as much time as he needed to say it. The dreaded words.  
GOODBYE.

It had been just him and his mum for so long, but now he had to leave her on her own. It was breaking his heart, and he could tell it was breaking hers too. A single tear slipped down her cheek, and she tried to hide it by wiping it away quickly. Samuel seen it, and he broke down immediately.  
"I'm going to miss you so much, mum" he blubbered into hoodie sleeve. Even though it was warm out, he didn't want to show off his skinny arms. Ajax said they were cute, but he wasn't so sure. Vivian held out her arms and he immediately ran into them, hugging her tightly. He was such a mummy's boy – and he would gladly admit that.

"I'm going to miss you too, sweetie" she cried. Samuel nuzzled into her comfort. He wasn't sure how he was going to cope without her. He pulled away because he knew it was time to go. She wiped at her eyes again.  
"Take care of yourself, okay?" she begged. Samuel nodded.  
"Of course."

"I've told Ajax to take care of you too. You'll do fine, my darling" she said, stroking his cheek. She wiped a few of his tears away with her thumb.

Samuel nodded again, this time more sadly. She kissed his wet cheek.  
"Have fun and call me every night."  
"Of course," he smiled, "I wouldn't miss that for the world."

She returned a weak smile, and he picked up his suitcase and left. He left her standing sobbing in the doorway. It was inevitable, right? He just hadn't thought it would happen so soon.

He hopped into the back of the car and to make it easier on everyone, Macy just drove away immediately. Samuel waved at his mum out the car window and she stood there, watching and waving until they disappeared from sight. Samuel felt utterly heartbroken. He snuggled into Ajax's chest and Ajax wrapped his big arms around him. He didn't say a word, and Samuel appreciated that. He knew Samuel wasn't okay, so he didn't ask. He was good like that, always so considerate.

They drove and drove. Samuel didn't care to look out the window, but Macy let the roof of her car down for a while to cheer them up. The wind swept through Samuel's hair, causing the little wisps to dance around on his head. He felt like a toddler because it did cheer him up. He found himself smiling, and when he smiled – Ajax and Macy smiled too. Samuel found himself thinking about how strong Ajax was. Much stronger than he was. Then again, he hadn't left his mum yet. Though he was much better at keeping himself together than Samuel was.

Macy blared a few Guns n Roses CD's all the way there. She was a huge fan; she had seen them loads of times live. Ajax hummed along, but honestly; Samuel didn't know the lyrics much. He was more of a Duran Duran kind of guy. That sort of musical vibe. Also, Cher, but that was a secret. Samuel was secretly delighted when she turned on her Cher CD, but seconds later they pulled up outside a massive MANSION. It was even bigger than Ajax's house (which he had thought was big until he seen THIS), Victorian style. Samuel was honestly gobsmacked and he stared up at the house in awe. Macy noticed because she was looking at him through the rear-view mirror. She laughed.

"Impressed?"

"Very" Samuel admitted, embarrassed.  
"Very good. This will be your home for the next few years."  
"Really?!" Samuel gasped.  
"Uhuh" she smiled.  
They got out of the car and Samuel carried his suitcase to the door, following right behind Macy and in front of Ajax. Ajax didn't seem phased by that house which was confusing to Samuel. Maybe he had been there before?

Macy rang the bell and it chimed loudly, even outside. Samuel kept looking around the front of the house, at the flowers. She had a mixture of Fuchsia's and Sunflowers growing together, a surprisingly beautiful combination. There were two hanging baskets (with flowers he didn't know) hanging either side of the porch, and the door was tall and painted pitch black. There was a name plate just above the doorbell. It looked like one of those tiled ones you get in the Canary Islands (he knew because Macy and Ajax had one from their trip reading ACTON). That one read 'CORDERO'.

The door swung open to reveal a Spanish lady. She was small and chubby, with fiery red hair (almost the same shade as Lola's, except obviously dyed) and huge, dark brown eyes. She looked sassy, and he knew immediately not to mess with her despite being surprisingly taller and broader than her (he was usually smaller than most women he knew. He hated it).  
"Sapphire!" Macy exclaimed happily.  
Sapphire grinned, "Macy!"

She had a thick, British accent, so Samuel assumed she was born in England.

Thye hugged and then Sapphire immediately turned her attention to Ajax.  
"Oh, you have grown so much!" she said excitedly, "come here!"  
They hugged one another too. Samuel shuffled his feet awkwardly, and then she stared at him. This bored stare, like he was having a conversation with her and she couldn't be any less interested.  
"You must be Samuel" she said stiffly.

"Mhm. Yes, Ma'am."  
When he referred to her as Ma'am, she seemed to cheer up. She patted his shoulder.  
"Come on in, everyone" she said. They all stepped inside.  
"Welcome, welcome! "she said, "please remove your shoes I have just mopped the floor."  
They did as they were instructed and then followed her into the dining room. A maid emerged from the kitchen, and she kindly ordered her to make them some herbal tea. Samuel had never tried that before, but it sounded disgusting to him.

"So," she said, as the maid left, crossing her arms and looking at Samuel from across the table. Samuel shifted uncomfortably under her stare.  
"You're Samuel Blaze Ainsley."  
"That's right" Samuel nodded.  
"The one Macy claims to be the Chosen one."  
"The what now?" Samuel blinked. Macy coughed, trying to stop her, but she didn't pick up the hint.  
"The chosen one. The one who will bring back the light."  
Samuel blinked again, so confused. "I wouldn't say that. I'm just Samuel. I'm just normal."  
She scoffed at him, "we'll see."

"Mm" Samuel nodded, unsure of what else to say. He thought she believed him, though. Macy had warned him a few days prior that Sapphire was not too fond of half-bloods. He wasn't sure what all of that "chosen one" crap was though. It made him sound like some hero, and to him, he was just Sammy.

The maid returned seconds later carrying a silver tray. There was a tea-pot and four cups placed upon it. She gave Samuel a small smile while she placed the tray down in front of Sapphire. Samuel returned the smile, and then she disappeared into the kitchen once again. There it was. Smiling at just him. Maybe everyone thought he had some sort of special potential after all (except Sapphire, of course).

"Thank you, Audrey!" Sapphire exclaimed after the maid.  
She started to pour the tea carefully.  
"Some peppermint tea, my favourite" she grinned. She took a sip of her tea before motioning for everyone else to reach for theirs.  
'Oh wonderful' Samuel thought, 'I'm going to have to pretend to like it.'  
Where was his milky tea when he needed it? You know, REAL tea.

He reluctantly took his cup in his hands and took a sip. He tried his hardest to hide his disgust, but Macy noticed it and laughed.

"You don't like it, Sammy?" she asked him.  
"Not really," he shrugged, "I've never tried it before."  
"Well it soothes my menstrual cramps" Sapphire snapped, "something you boys don't have to worry about."  
Samuel visibly cringed at that statement.  
"Well, no" Ajax chuckled, taking a gulp of his tea, "but Sammy and I both sympathise. Right, Sammy?"  
"Right."

Sapphire glared at Samuel. He cringed once again, realising it was going to be a hellish few years.  
"So where will the boys be sleeping?" Macy suddenly asked, "apart, I hope."  
She was joking, but Sapphire doesn't pick up on that.  
"Afraid not, Macy. I have two new students who joined last week, so most of my rooms are taken. These two will have to share the attic."

"We don't mind" Ajax interjected. Macy rolled her eyes, so does Samuel.

"Good!" Sapphire chuckled, taking a huge gulp of 'tea.' Samuel felt like getting sick just watching her. The others finish their tea and Samuel's grew cold before Sapphire stood up.  
"Well, let's show you two to your room, then."  
"I better be off," Macy suddenly said, standing up, "I have some things to do back home before night time."  
Ajax and Samuel stood up and both of them gave her a tight hug. She hugged Ajax the longest, of course.

"You boys behave" she warned, as if they were the 'baddest' kids on the block.

"We will" Samuel nodded. Ajax hugged her again, telling her he was going to miss her, and then they saw her to the door. She left immediately, barely looking back. Samuel could tell how hard it was for her to leave Ajax behind. While she drove away, Samuel texted his own mum to let her know they had arrived safely, knowing she was worrying at home. As Sapphire lead them up the stairs, they passed many doors and Samuel realised just how huge the mansion was. The decor was so fancy, and it reminded him of something you'd see in old French movies. It was so elegant and beautiful! He quickly replied to his mum's "I miss you" text with an "I miss you too, love you," and then they were up in the attic.

Ajax was carrying both of their suitcases (true gentleman style), and he plopped them down on the floor. Sapphire left them to get settled, telling them to meet her down in the garden in twenty-minutes time, no later. Ajax started to Tutt, causing Samuel to look up from his phone, since he thought he was tutting because Samuel was texting. He immediately spotted Ajax standing in the centre of the room. He tuts louder. Samuel raised a brow at him. Ajax motioned towards the beds – two single beds – and shook his head.

"This simply won't do" he muttered. Samuel laughed.  
"What are you talking about?"  
"They're too far apart!" he said. He was right, there was even a locker between them.

Ajax did some redecorating while Samuel put their clothes away in the huge, mahogany wardrobe (is it ridiculous that he hoped Narnia was inside or something? Was that even possible in the magic world?).  
Ajax moved the locker away, pushed the beds together, and then placed the locker with the lamp on what he decided was 'Samuel's side' (the side furthest away from the door). Samuel asked him why.  
"So I can protect you easier" was his answer. Samuel snorted.  
"What if the villains come through the window?" he asked, pointing towards it.  
"Touché."

Samuel flopped down on the bed on his side and Ajax climbed onto the bed beside him.  
"Sammy?"  
"Hmm?"  
"We live together" he said excitedly.

Samuel chuckled, "we do. It's moving too fast, don't you think?"  
"Huh?!" Ajax gasped, looking down at him.  
"I'm being sarcastic," Samuel giggled, "I love this."

Ajax unclenched his shoulders then and snuggled into Samuel's back. Samuel sighed contently.  
"I wonder where this adventure will lead us" Ajax said quietly.

"Me too," Samuel agreed, "I wonder if they'll really come for me."  
Ajax remained quiet.  
"Ajax?"  
"I'm sure they won't. It's just a safety precaution."  
"You need to tell me everything you know," Samuel said to him, "about my dad. I'm ready."  
"Okay. Tonight, yeah?"  
"Yeah" Samuel agreed. He felt excited to know, but a part of him felt emotional already.

"You need to hear about it, I guess. For this...adventure."  
"Mhm. You're right. I need to know all about magic."  
"That's why Sapphire is here, I guess."

"Yeah."  
A silence followed. Samuel then asked him a question that had been lingering on his mind.  
"Do you miss Lola?"  
Ajax scoffed, "what?!"  
"I mean...you two dated for a long time."  
He looked up at Samuel, "Sammy, no."  
"Do you?"  
"No," he said, shaking his head, "I miss her as a friend, but definitely not as my girlfriend."  
"Then I need to know about the Moonstone's as well. Every one of them.  
"I've never met her brother, but I can tell you all I know."

Ajax sat up, and pulled Samuel up by his arms. Samuel looked into his dark eyes. Ajax stroked Samuel's cheek with his thumb and then kissed his lips gently.  
"I love you, Sammy."  
Samuel smiled against his soft lips, "I love you too. I'll never get tired of hearing and saying that."  
Ajax smiled widely, "let's get going."

It was the beginning of a new adventure. A new chapter in their lives.  
Not just in love, but they were about to learn magic. They were there, it was happening.  
...and Samuel had never been more terrified in his entire life.

CHAPTER ELEVEN: MIRROR

Samuel and Ajax headed downstairs and out into the back garden. So many thoughts were running through Ajax's mind. He was thinking about his mum, and how much he was going to miss her (but he was trying not to show it – if he broke down, Samuel would too). He was also thinking about how they were now living together. They were sharing a room. It was crazy – but also amazing. He just hoped they didn't drive each other mad. They do say that you don't know someone until you have lived with them, but he knew Samuel was a great person.

Although, he was also thinking of something much, much darker.

When Ajax had told his mum that he and Samuel were together, she seemed happy about it for a few moments, but then her smile faded. When he asked her what was wrong, she shook her head and said, "nothing, sweetheart. Just be prepared for anything to happen."  
He couldn't help but wonder what she meant. Did his mum know something he didn't?  
Samuel noticed a frown on Ajax's face immediately.

"Is something wrong?"  
"No, no!" Ajax faked a smile. Samuel fell for it, Ajax had no reason to lie to him.  
"Good!"

They found Sapphire deep within the garden. It was a massive garden, and herbs and flowers were growing everywhere. She was standing right at the end of the garden by the backwall, where the pair notice an intricate mirror hanging. There are two young boys around their age standing beside her, chatting with her. It appeared to be a welcome wagon.

"Ah, there they are!" Sapphire said, strutting towards them. The two boys followed close behind.

One of the boys was super pale, with silver hair down to his shoulders, tucked behind his ears. His eyes were a piercing blue, and he was staring intently at Ajax, like he hated him already. Ajax shuffled uncomfortably. The other boy was tanned, with the same length hair only it was black and slicked back with so much gel. His eyes were the biggest eyes they had ever seen, and they were a dark brown. He also had a silver eyebrow piercing on his left eyebrow and he was wearing surfer shorts, with the pair found odd.

"These are my new pupils that arrived this morning!" Sapphire grinned almost proudly, "this is Ajax," she motioned towards him, "and Samuel Blaze" she motioned to him.  
"Ah, it's lovely to meet you both!" the tanned boy smiled, shaking both of their hands, "I'm Kaiko Kahale!"  
The other boy just nodded at them, "I'm Ace Andrews."  
Ajax tilted his head to the side. He looked somewhat familiar, but he couldn't pinpoint where he had seen him before.

Sapphire allowed them to get quickly acquainted. They learned far more about Kaiko than Ace, like he was from Hawaii (explained the shorts), he was a merman and he had been using magic since he was eight. Ace said there was not much to tell about himself, just that he had been using magic all his life. Sapphire interrupted Kaiko's yapping with a small cough. He closed his mouth and nodded, a silent "I'll shut up now." She started to walk towards the mirror, and the boys all followed close behind her. She ran her fingers along the goden edges while she spoke.

"Today, Ajax and Samuel Blaze will be receiving their wands and entering the enchanted forest for the first time."  
"WOOO!" Kaiko cheered. Samuel and Ajax chuckled.

"Good luck, then" Sapphire said. There was a long pause.  
"Eh, what?" Samuel blinked.  
"Go ahead, what are you two waiting for?!" she asked crossly. They had no idea what was happening. She sighed after another few seconds of silence.

"Oh, yes. I forgot you two are completely new to this. Step through the mirror into the enchanted forest and find the stone man. He will grant you entry into Clearview Town."  
They just nodded along, pretending to understand her.

"Understood?" she asked, making sure.  
"Mhm" they both nodded. They were soo lying.  
"Good!" she chirped.

Ajax took a hold of Samuel's hand, pulling him towards the mirror. Samuel gave Ajax a worried look, but as soon as Ajax smiled at him, his features softened. Ajax just did as he was told. He stepped through the mirror. He couldn't hear anything from the other side, but he was still holding Samuel's hand through the mirror, which was now rippling like water. Samuel walked through within a few seconds.

"Woah!" he exclaimed excitedly, "okay, this is cool!"  
There was a forest all around them, filled with HUGE evergreen trees and wildlife. There were a few deer prancing around them, and the rabbits didn't appear scared of them either. Ajax was just as fascinated as Samuel was.

Samuel slowly approached one of the deer. It looked up at him with innocent eyes, but as soon as he reached his hand out to pet it, the deer opened it's mouth and SPOKE

.  
"Don't you dare touch me, boy!" it snapped. Samuel ran back towards Ajax, hiding behind him. His heart was racing from fright, did the deer just SPEAK to him?! Ajax was laughing so hard he almost wet himself.  
"Stupid humans," the deer snorted, then started to wander off talking to itself, "thinking they can just-"  
He was out of earshot. Ajax kept laughing and laughing. Samuel pouted at him.  
"Not funny!" he yelled.  
Ajax's laughter died down to a giggle, "ah, it was. Admit it."

"Fine. It was a little funny" Samuel chuckled. Ajax took a hold of his hand again.  
"Let's find the Stoneman or whatever" he said to him.

"Mm" Samuel nodded, seemingly excited. Ajax never thought that day would come. The day they would find their wands and learn how to use their magic, but it had come. They walked through the forest. They had no idea what this "Stoneman" even looked like, or what it was, so they ended up feeling very lost.

Samuel sighed, defeated, and sat down on a rock by what looked like a cliff side. Ajax took a seat beside him, squishing up next to him.

"I knew I didn't have what it takes," Samuel said sadly.  
"Sammy?"  
"I tried to convince myself that I would be able to do all of this. I don't think I can, Ajax."  
Ajax wrapped his arm around his shoulder and pulled him closer to him.  
"You can. I believe in you."

Samuel chuckled.  
"You always have. I don't know why."

"Because you're Samuel Blaze Ainsley. You're the one who will destroy Arthur Ainsley's followers – and bring peace to the magical world."  
"Is that what this is all about? All this commotion around me?" Samuel asked him. Ajax nodded.

"That all just sounds like a load of baloney to me," Samuel chuckled sadly, "I hate to break it to you Ajax but, I'm just an average guy."

"You're not, though," Ajax said, shaking his head, "at least, not to me."  
"You're only saying that because you're in love with me."  
"Not true. Well, true. I am in love with you, but you are so special Sammy. You just need to apply yourself and give this your all."  
"Again - you're being biased."  
"Is my mum in love with you too, then?"

"Huh?"

"She says it all the time," Ajax told him, "all the time. You're the bringer of light, apparently."  
"Apparently...I'm the bringer of light...?" Samuel asked. Ajax nodded again, and Samuel shoved his head into his hands and started to pull at his dark locks.  
"Ugh! This is so aggravating!" he shouted.  
Ajax went to stop him pulling at his hair, when a voice suddenly boomed out.

"WHO DARES DISTURB MY SLUMBER?!"

The pair almost jumped out of their skin and stood up, defensive. When they looked up at the cliffside, there was a huge, stone face engraved into it, glaring at them through stony eyes. Ajax swallowed thickly, and Samuel clutched onto his arm.  
"WELL?!" the Stoneman questioned loudly.

Ajax took one for the team and stepped forward.  
"We wish to find-" he began quietly.

"SPEAK LOUDER BOY!"  
"WE WISH TO FIND OUR WANDS," he yelled, "CAN YOU TELL US WHERE TO FIND THEM?!"  
"AH, WHY YES. YOU MUST COME THIS WAY. BUT FIRST – I NEED YOUR NAME, AND THE NAME OF YOUR PARENTS."  
"PARENTS NAMES? WHY?"  
"I REMEMBER ALL WHO PASS THROUGH THESE WALLS. IN ORDER TO BE A MAGIC WIELDER, ONE MUST HAVE MAGIC WIELDING PARENTS – OR AT LEAST ONE. THAT IS COMMON KNOWLEDGE, BOY."

Ajax swallowed again. Samuel didn't know his father's name. He turned on his heel and took a hold of Samuel's shoulders.  
"Let's go together."  
"I need my dad's name!" Samuel panicked.  
Ajax looked into his eyes. He was unprepared, but he needed it in that moment.  
"His name was..."

"HURRY IT UP, I WISH TO RETURN TO MY SLUMBER!" the Stoneman boomed.  
Ajax glared up at the stone face, then turned back to Samuel, "Maximus Ainsley."  
Samuel's face lit up, like he had heard it somewhere before. Ajax didn't have time to ask.

"Okay?" he said. Samuel nodded.  
"Okay. Thank you, Ajax."  
Ajax stepped away from Samuel and approached the Stoneman.

"ARE YOU PREPARED?"  
"YES."  
"NAMES?"  
"I AM AJAX ANDREW ACTON. SON OF MACY ACTON AND CHASKA JONES."  
Samuel was behind him, clutching onto the back of Ajax's t-shirt. He yelled up;

"I AM SAMUEL BLAZE AINSLEY. SON OF MAXIMUS AINSLEY."  
The Stoneman's face disappeared in a flash of light, but not before his features lit up in shock.

They immediately looked ahead once the light had faded, and noticed that just passed the cliff was not a body of water – but an entire town! They blinked at one another, and just as Samuel went to speak – the cliff started to close in on them. Ajax grabbed him and threw him onto the ground on the other side before darting towards him.

"Are you alright?!" he exclaimed, "sorry, it was instinct."  
Samuel laughed as Ajax helped him up, "I'm fine. I'm fine."  
Ajax sighed with relief. They both just stood there at the entrance to the town. People were passing them by without a second thought. They seemed to be doing normal things, but the village was almost medieval looking.

They could smell fresh bread baking and it was making Ajax hungry. Samuel pulled on his sleeve, and he followed him towards the town square. There was a massive bell tower in the centre, with a clock, but the clock wasn't moving at all. Samuel pointed towards a sign.  
"Jolie's wands," he said, "is that where we're supposed to go?"  
"Perhaps," Ajax shrugged.

"We might as well go see," Samuel sighed. They walked towards the store, observing the frosted windows before entering.

A tiny old lady immediately peered up at them from behind the counter.  
"Um...hi. We're here to look at wands?" Samuel said shyly.  
"Ooh, yes! I've been expecting you!" she exclaimed happily. She practically ran towards them. Ajax was a little taken aback by her because she was very...forward. Samuel seemed to like her. She shook their hands and gave them a long hug each.

"I'm Mrs. Jolie," she said, "my husband ran this store before he...died" she looked away from them sadly, "I've been running it for the past fourteen years."  
"Oh, sounds nice. I'm sorry for your loss, though" Samuel said kindly.  
"That's alright, dear. Now, let's get looking at some wands. We have some fantastic ones over here."  
She scrambled over to the wands display.

She seemed very hyperactive for her age – she must have been in her 80's.  
"Now, there is one thing you two must know."  
She seemed to know they were new to magic – but she didn't seem to know who Samuel was. Maybe not everyone was informed.  
"What is that?" Samuel asked, tilting his head to the side and looking at the wand in her hands.  
"Your wands chooses you," she replied. She handed the wand to Samuel, and he gently took it from her. It immediately burst into flames in his hands. Samuel gasped and dropped it to the floor.

Mrs. Jolie pursed her lips and the three of them watch it burn on the wooden floor. She sighed.  
"And that was the last one like it in stock, too."

"I'm sorry," Samuel said sadly. She shook her head.  
"Not to worry – I can order in some more. Here, tall boy. Try this one" she said. Ajax looked down at the wand in her hands. He could hear voices whispering to him, right in his ears. He shivered.  
"What's that whispering?" he asked hesitantly. He didn't want them to think he was crazy.

"Try it," she said.  
The voices were inaudible, but he caught a "take it."  
He took the wand from her hands and he was almost prepared for it to burst into flames – but it didn't.

"I knew it!" she exclaimed excitedly, "don't you love when that happens?!"  
"What happens?" Ajax asked.  
"When your intuition is right," she said, "now, hold it up to that vase and say "LEVITATE!" loudly. Okay?"

"LEVITATE!" Ajax yelled, and surely enough – the vase lifted up from the side table it was seated on.

Mrs. Jolie clasped her hands together, as does Samuel. He was thrilled for him.  
"That was easy" Ajax chuckled.  
Mrs. Jolie walked over to the vase and placed it back down in case he dropped and broke it.  
"Yes, it seems to. Now, for the shorter one, I suppose we can take a look out back. You just enjoy your wand, dear. Don't break the vase. It's vintage."

Ajax nodded, not knowing what that meant or why it was important. She motioned for Samuel to follow her into the back room. Ajax couldn't believe it had been that easy for him – but there we go.

He had a wand. He observed it closer, holding it up to his eyes. There were olive trees painted on it, those weren't there a few moments before hand. He was sure of it. He would have to ask Mrs. Jolie about it, or maybe even Sapphire. He was pacing the shop when he heard Samuel yell, "LEVITATE!"  
He smiled immediately. He found one.

CHAPTER TWELVE: AINSLEY?!

Samuel had followed Mrs. Jolie into the back room. He felt so, so proud of Ajax for finding his wand so easily. He somehow felt like it would be much harder for him. They didn't speak as she rummaged through a few wands. Just for the record – each and every wand they tried burst into flames. Samuel felt so defeated and devastated. He sat on the ground, pulling his knees up under his chin. Mrs. Jolie sighed.

"Maybe I'm not cut out for this," he said, tears in his eyes, "I was supposed to make my dad proud. It's the least I could have done for him..."  
"Your dad?" she asked quietly, "you lost him?"  
"I did. When I was four. He was murdered."  
"Wait-" she gasped, kneeling down in front of Samuel on the floor, "don't tell me you're an Ainsley?"  
"Why?"

"Are you the son of Maximus Ainsley?!"

Samuel hesitated before nodding. He had been unable to tell what she thought of him by her tone alone.  
"Oh my – oh my Adonis!" she exclaimed.  
"Um...Adonis?"  
"I can see it now!" she said happily, "you are an Ainsley! No, you're THE Ainsley!"  
"I suppose?"  
"Oh! I have just the wand for you!"

Samuel stood up, feeling all excited. Was this really going to work this time?!  
Mrs. Jolie muttered to herself as she went deeper into the back room. Seconds later, she came back with a ripped and battered shoebox. He stared at her in disbelief.

"Inside this battered old box," she said, "is a wand that hasn't been used in fourteen years."  
"Oh?" he stepped towards her, and she opened the box wide. Samuel peaked inside, and there was a wand with tridents painted all over it in there. It looked old, but it looked like it would still work. The moment he touched it, he closed his eyes and he could hear waves crashing.  
"Take it, take it, take it" a male's voice chanted.  
Fear immediately kicked in and he snapped his hand away.

"Can you hear the ocean?" she asked softly. Samuel nodded, and his hand fell limp by his side.  
"Don't be afraid," she reassured him, "that's your God letting you know he's with you."  
"My...God?"

"Yes. You will formally meet him during your meditation session. It goes along with your training. Your God seems to be the same as your father's."  
"Who-who is it?" Samuel asked, still afraid.  
"Poseidon."

"Woah, r-really?"  
"Yes," she nodded, "take the wand. It was your father's."  
Samuel hesitantly reached for the wand and held it in both hands. He felt a deep connection with this wand. It felt used, but it still felt like his wand. His palms were tingling from holding onto it. She smiled at him softly.

"Use it."

Samuel held the wand up, focusing his intention on an empty box up on a shelf.  
"LEVITATE!" he yelled, and a stream of water emerged from the wand, levitating the box, but not wetting it. Samuel was amazed by it. He dropped the box down neatly, right back where it was by yelling "DROP!"

Mrs. Jolie was already looking at him when he turned to smile at her, but she didn't return the smile. Instead, she cupped his face in her hands and stroked his cheeks.  
"You have the power in you to bring the light back to this world" she said, "for your father's honour, and my husbands, please do it."  
Samuel stared at her blankly, then replied, "I will try my hardest, Ma'am."

Mrs. Jolie finally smiled, but it was faint. She looked upset about something. He wanted to ask her what was wrong, but it wasn't his place.  
"You're a sweet boy," she said softly, continuing to stroke his cheeks, "I am so glad I could meet you at last."

"Um...me too?" he said awkwardly. She realised she was being weird and pulled away from him.  
"Well, shall we go?"  
"How much do we owe you?" he asked her.

"Money is not something we use here in Clearview," she explained as they walked. Samuel looked back at her, surprised. She ignored that and they left the back room together. Samuel ran to Ajax and hugged him tightly.  
"I found one!" Samuel said, "It was my dad's wand!"  
"I'm so proud of you!" Ajax said, kissing his forehead. Mrs. Jolie watched them, smiling.  
"Is he your boyfriend?" she asked, more so directed at Samuel.  
"Yep! "Samuel giggled.  
"Take good care of him," she said to Ajax, "won't you?"  
"Of course," Ajax grinned, "always have."

She smiled faintly, and there was a long pause before Samuel said, "well, we better head back. The others are waiting. Thank you for everything, Mrs. Jolie."  
"It was my pleasure" she replied.

Samuel took Ajax's hand and head him out of the shop. There was definitely something weird about that woman, but he decided to leave it alone. It was best to forget about it, it wasn't like he would ever see her again, anyway.

Mrs. Jolie watched him leave, then turned on her heel and headed straight to the back room. There was tears in her eyes, but she had told herself to hold it together in front of him. He was there. He was right in front of her. The one who would bring back the light. Huh?

The tears started to fall from her eyes, rolling down her pale cheeks. She headed to the very back of the room, right where her flat was. She took a seat on her couch, reaching for the photo frame on her coffee table. Her hands were wrinkly and shaky, but she did what she did to keep her husbands' memory alive. She looked at the photograph inside, and at the young boy standing beside her husband. The boy who loved and lost everything.  
"Oh, my dear son" she said shakily, her breath catching in her throat as she sobbed. She could barely breath.  
"He's like you. He has your wand now, just like you wanted. Oh, Maximus. What do I do to keep your little one safe? How do I keep your sole reason for living...alive?"

CHAPTER THIRTEEN: SALEM

As Samuel and Ajax headed back in the direction of the entrance to Clearview, Samuel's eyes landed on a specific store. His eyes widened and he stopped dead in his tracks. Ajax, who had been walking slightly ahead of him, turned to look back at him. His eyes followed Samuel's gaze to the store, whose sign read; "FLORENCE'S FAMILIARS."

"Sammy?"  
"They have kitties!" Samuel exclaimed, jumping up and down a little bit. Ajax chuckled, and he couldn't help but think about how cute Samuel looked in that moment (and every moment, to be fair).

"Do you think I should get one?"  
"I don't know, Sammy. Pets are hard to take care of."  
"They're free. Free kitties."  
"Go on, then" Ajax laughed, following an over-excited Samuel into the store.

As they entered, many different pets came into view. Turtles, cats, even dogs. Ajax spotted a ginger cat just laying lazily on its back. He peered into its little box, chuckling to himself.  
"You're cute" he muttered to it, gently scratching its belly. The cat purred and started to roll around.  
"Hey, Sammy" he called, "look at this one."

No response. He turned quickly, fearing that by letting Samuel out of his sight for a few seconds, he had somehow got snatched.

His eyes scanned the packed shop until they landed on the back of Samuel's head. He let out a relieved sigh, then stopped scratching the cat's belly and walked towards Samuel. Samuel was holding a tiny, black kitten in his hands. Ajax always thought Samuel's hands were tiny, but this kitten fit in them perfectly.

"You like him?" Ajax questioned. Samuel nodded; eyes filled with tears. He was so in love with this cat already. Ajax rubbed his back.  
"Take him home, then."  
"What if Sapphire doesn't like cats? What if she's allergic and I have to take him back?"  
"Then we'll get our own place."

Samuel looked up at him, giving him a gentle smile.  
"You're the best boyfriend ever."  
"Anything for you" Ajax said, kissing the tip of his nose.  
Samuel giggled at the contact, then snuggled the cat closer to his chest. The owner of the store, a middle-aged woman approached them with a beaming smile.  
"I see you've found your familiar" she said with a slight lisp.

"I have" Samuel agreed, "what do I need for him?"

She motioned for them to follow her over to the pet supplies section, but Ajax's eyes trailed back to the lazy ginger adult cat he had been playing with. He approached a store assistant, a young girl who was seated by the counter.  
"Um...excuse me" he said.  
"No, you can't have my number" she mumbled, not looking up at him. Ajax laughed.  
"No, I wanted to ask you about that cat" he said, pointing to the case it was in. She blushed heavily.  
"Oh, sorry. Of course," she said, standing up and practically darting towards the case. She took the cat out, who just stared at her blankly. She handed the cat to Ajax just as he reached her, who held the cat close.

"This is Beans. Named fittingly because she loves beans."  
Ajax smiled widely, "I'll take her."  
"Wonderful!" she grinned, "nobody has ever wanted Beans. I'm sure she's delighted she's found her forever home."  
Ajax held the cat like a baby and scratched her tummy, earning him lots of purrs.  
"I'm sure she is, too."

The store employee lead him over to where Samuel was picking up his pet supplies. They got everything they needed and put into two, giant bags, which they also placed their wands into.  
"Well, thank you for everything!" the store owner grinned, "we hope you enjoy your new familiars."

"We will, I'm sure" Samuel said, and the pair left the store together.

"What's her name?" Samuel asked. The kitten was clinging to his shoulder, but he was still holding him with the bag in his other hand. Meanwhile, Beans was laying asleep in her carrier.  
"Beans" Ajax informed him. Samuel giggled.  
"Cute!"

"What's his name?" Ajax questioned, motioning to the kitten clinging to his shoulder. Samuel frowned.

"Would it be too cliché to call him Salem?"  
"Yes."  
"Well then, Salem it is" he grinned. Ajax chuckled quietly.  
"The lady in the store told me he was the smallest in his litter, therefore he was the weakest" Samuel sighed, "it made me think of myself. How defenceless I can be, and how much I've had to rely on you. Now, Salem can rely on me."

Ajax's features scrunched up into a sad look.  
"Don't feel sad," Samuel giggled, "it's a good thing."

"Good, I was worried."  
"Why so?"  
"I want you to keep relying on me. It makes me feel like I have purpose" Ajax explained.  
"You have purpose anyway, you're amazing. Even if you weren't so protective of me, I would still be in love with you. We're soulmates."  
Ajax gave him a teary smile. Soulmates, huh?

"I couldn't agree more."  
Samuel fixed Salem who was slightly falling off his shoulder.  
"I guess we're a proper family now, hm?"  
"Now that we're living together with cats?"  
"Uhuh!"

"Yes, yes we are, let's add to that someday."  
Samuel seemed surprised by those words, like he hadn't expected to hear them, and he hadn't, but then he grinned so wide, his mouth hurt afterwards.  
"Yeah. Let's."

CHAPTER FOURTEEN: YES

Samuel and Ajax stepped through the mirror minutes later, after passing through the beautiful forest once again. Before then, though, Ajax had pulled Samuel into his chest. Samuel relaxed into his embrace, knowing he belonged there in his arms.  
"I am so proud of you" Ajax had said softly. Samuel hugged into him as tight as he could without squishing Salem.

"I'm proud of you, too."  
Ajax smiled warmly, and Samuel felt so good knowing he was happy for both of them.  
"That old lady was odd though, right?" Samuel chuckled as they pulled back from each other.

"What do you mean?" Ajax asked.  
"She was acting weird, she kept touching me" Samuel explained.  
Ajax blinked with obvious confusion, "that's...strange."  
Samuel shrugged, "well, whatever. We should go and introduce everyone to Beans and Salem, and show them our new wands."

"We should!" Ajax said proudly.

That's when they stepped through the mirror and spotted Sapphire sitting on a nearby bench, reading a small book. She looked up immediately.  
"You guys made it back! And you got kitties!" she exclaimed happily, walking towards them and tickling Salem's back. The kitten squirmed against Samuel's chest.  
"Why wouldn't we?" Ajax chuckled.

"Ah, I'm just joking" she giggled, "there is nothing dangerous in that woods at all."  
"Well? How did it go?" she asked, returning to her seat. The pair followed her.  
"Wonderfully," Samuel grinned, "Mrs. Jolie was a delight."

"She's a very kind woman," Sapphire replied, then crossed her legs, "let me see your new wands."  
Ajax placed Bean's carrier down on the ground, then removed his wand, showing Sapphire. She didn't touch it, for obvious reasons.

"That's a beautiful wand. It appears that the goddess Athena has chosen you."  
"Goddess...Athena?" Ajax asked with so much confusion in his voice.

"Yes, you see, despite the popular belief – there is no one God. It was a hard pill for me to swallow as a Catholic child. Athena has chosen you as one of her soldiers of the light."  
"Woah!" Ajax exclaimed, impressed.

"And you?" she asked Samuel in a not-so-friendly-tone. She was still unsure of him.  
"Yeah, sure" Samuel said, removing his wand from the old, tattered box. Sapphire's face immediately fell with shock.  
"Is that -"  
"My dad's wand? Yeah."  
"Oh!" she exclaimed, standing up and leaning closer to observe the wand better, "the tridents. You're telling me the truth!"  
"I have no reason to lie," Samuel said.

"You do know what this means, don't you?"  
"No?" Samuel said, because he didn't.

"Well, to put it into context – once a person dies, their wand dies too. It cannot be reused by another person. Your father's magic is in this wand."  
"Is it?" he asked, looking closer at the wand.  
"I will have to look into it some more, but I can't believe this is possible!"

Sapphire was so shocked, it kind of panicked Samuel a little.  
Ajax leaned closer, like Sapphire had before, "that's amazing!"  
"It is" Sapphire said, and for once, she looked at Samuel like he meant something.

Sapphire was so surprised; she couldn't speak for a few seconds. She just stood there, humming and stuttering.

"Is it really that big of a deal?" he asked her. Her mouth hung open.  
"If you weren't such a newbie, I'd slap you!"  
"Sorry," Samuel said, shrugging, "I just don't see myself as anything special."  
"Truth be told Samuel Blaze neither did I. Not until now."

They re-entered the house so that Sapphire could look through her books to see if she could find more information. It was hard to take it all in, as they watched her scan through book after book, but she couldn't find a single thing. She was just as confused as Samuel was about it. He kept feeling a tingle in his leg, he figured it was the wand, which was in his pocket causing it. Sapphire kept mumbling to herself, and Samuel and Ajax were sitting directly across from her in the library in her home. Beans was sleeping on the table in front of them, and Salem was still clinging to Samuel like a baby.

Before they had entered, she told them that they could go into the library any time to study magic. Samuel couldn't help but think that he would have enough studying to do once he got to university. He never wanted any of it, and because of him, he felt, other people were stressing. Sapphire was frowning deeply as her eyes scanned the pages, but she frowned even deeper before turning onto the next one. Samuel was so lost.

Ajax could tell, so he took Samuel's hand under the table and squeezed it. Samuel looked at him, and Ajax gave him hat cute, reassuring smile of his, but for once in his life – Samuel didn't feel reassured. What did he do to deserve someone like him? He breathed to keep Samuel happy.  
"Aha!" she suddenly exclaimed, causing Ajax and Samuel to jump so high, they released each other's hand.

"I found something" she said breathlessly. She slammed the book down onto the table, causing Beans to wake up suddenly, then fall back asleep immediately. Samuel quirked a brow, urging her on.  
"It says here that if a warlock or a witch is powerful enough, before they die, they can place their magic inside another person or an object. In this case, your father placed all of his magic into this wand so that it would work for you."

"That's really interesting," Ajax said, nodding along.  
"Indeed," Samuel sighed.

"What's the matter?" Sapphire inquired. Samuel shook his head, but both Ajax and Sapphire kept looking at him, so he had to say it.  
"So....dad put his magic into his wand before he died? Which means he knew he was going to die...he had no chance from the beginning..."  
They both looked at him sadly, but he didn't want them to feel sad for him.  
"What does all this mean?" he then asked, changing the subject.  
"Hm?" Sapphire asked, tilting her head to the side.  
"The bringer of light stuff. I need to know."

Ajax eyed Sapphire, and she looked back at him.  
"Hey!" Samuel snapped, "I'm in charge of me, and I want to know what it means!"  
That was probably the first time he had ever properly yelled at someone. He was tired, cranky and he missed his mum. He just wanted to go home and forget about all of it.  
Sapphire and Ajax were both shocked by his raised voice, Ajax even more so.

"We-well," Sapphire began, crossing her legs under the table, "thousands of years ago when Vampires first became known to other creatures, including magic wielders, an old monk prophesized that they would bring about a dark era. This would be when the vampires ruled over the other creatures, and they do, being right at the top of the food chain above werewolves. They feed on anything and everything, those blood-sucking vermin."

She sighed before continuing.

"Anyway, the Moonstone's didn't come about for a long time, but before they ruled the British vampires, there was another family named the Braxton's. The whole family was turned in the 1700's, and generations of their family became rulers all over the British Isles. They were hard to take down, but eventually Arthur Moonstone and his younger brother, Artemis, overthrew the family – killing everyone, including the wee babies."

She pulled a disgusted face.  
"As bad as they were, they didn't have to kill the babies. It's sick."  
Ajax didn't look surprised to Samuel, he thought he knew all about it, and that was true. His mum had told him all about it before.

"Arthur Moonstone was a ruthless vampire. While his younger brother trained his immediate family to only hunt wild animals, Arthur trained his wife and children to hunt people. He lost control, and he ended up becoming mad. He did kill your father, and your grandfather, too, on the same night."  
"Wait!" Samuel exclaimed in shock, "he killed my grandfather that night too?"  
Sapphire nodded.

"My mum told me my grandparents died when my dad was a teenager," he said crossly.

Sapphire pursed her lips and looked awkward, like she regretted saying anything at all.  
"Your mum wanted to protect you," Ajax said, and Samuel felt a little bit calmer knowing those words were true.  
"Should I go on?" Sapphire asked. After a few seconds, Samuel nodded.  
"Your father was considered to be the prophesised bringer of light. A young, dark haired man with handsome, rugged features, and he would sacrifice his life to bring back the light. Destroy the vampire families once and for all. Take back the magical kingdoms. Unfortunately, that was not the case. Or maybe it was. Arthur Moonstone obviously knew of this prophecy, so he murdered your father in cold blood."

"...Dad" Samuel whimpered. Ajax squeezed his hand under the table.  
"I know it's hard to hear, Samuel Blaze, and I didn't want to say anything because Macy asked me not to tell you anything."  
"Why not?" Ajax questioned.  
She didn't answer. She stood up and started to put the book back on their correct shelves. Samuel wanted to know why. He had a feeling he did know, though.  
"Is it because if I am the bringer of light, I have to die...?"

She paused as she was about to put the last book back on the shelf.

"Sammy!" Ajax gasped, visibly upset.  
"Is it?" Samuel asked her again, ignoring Ajax, because he had to.  
She slowly walked back over to the table. For a second, she didn't even look at him, but then her eyes met his.  
"Yes."

CHAPTER FIFTEEN: CRY

Deep down, Ajax always knew it too.

Life wasn't like the movies. Sometimes, they hero dies too. Samuel had no choice in the matter. He had to save the world. Ajax sat there, with Samuel's hand in his, and he can't help but think about how it could be their last few months together. Is that why his mum told him to be prepared? How on earth could he be prepared to lose the man he loved? He didn't think anything could prepare him for that.

He kept looking at his side profile. He took in all the details he already knew. His button nose and his arched brows (he actually plucked them, unlike Ajax). Those adorable freckles. His plump, delicious lips. He kept thinking about how he might not get to kiss them anymore one day. One day too soon.  
"Sammy, you can't die" he finally said, someone finally spoke.

"I know it's hard to hear but..." Sapphire began, then trailed off, "I'm so sorry."  
Ajax looked back at Samuel, and to his utter amazement, he looked braver than he ever had. He wasn't seriously considering it, was he?!

Samuel opened his mouth to speak, then closed it. He was trying to find the right words to say. He finally spoke after about a minute of that.  
"The bringer of light must die, hm?" he said with a faint chuckle. He looked down at Salem, who was now in his lap sleeping.

"I'll do it."  
"SAMMY!" Ajax yelled.  
"Ajax..." he started, "I know it's hard for you to hear but I have to do it. The world is in danger."

"Since when do you care about the world?" Ajax asked him.  
He was serious. Samuel lived in his own little world. Where everything is sunshine and rainbows because he had protected him till then.  
"Since I found out my dad died for it" was his stiff reply.

Ajax was exasperated. He couldn't even talk. He kept staring at Samuel, his mouth opening and closing, his breathing heavy from the anger he felt.  
"So, you're just going to leave me, then?! After all this time?!"  
"I have no choice."  
"He's right," Sapphire sighed, "he doesn't have a choice."

'That bitch is encouraging him!' Ajax thought to himself.  
He stood up, and he left. He couldn't listen to the conversation anymore.

"Ajax!" Samuel exclaimed after him, but he slammed the door as he left. He stormed upstairs to their bedroom and locked the door. He didn't want Samuel near him in that moment. He removed his wand from his pocket and threw it across the room with rage. He lay down on the bed, just looking up at the ceiling, his blood boiling. His breathing was too hard, he thought he would hyperventilate at any moment. He took a hold of his pillow and put it over his face.

"FUUUUUUUUCK!" he screamed into it. That's when he caught Samuel's scent from the pillow, from when they were laying there earlier that day. A fresh scent, his natural smell.

He stopped breathing for a second, and suddenly he wasn't angry anymore. He was heartbroken. He held the pillow close to him and just...took in his scent. Hot tears started to slide down his cheeks. For the first time in a long time – he was crying.

He realised he wasn't mad at Samuel. He was mad at himself, because the only thing he couldn't protect him from was the thing they were now faced with. Death.  
There was no way he could ever love again. Never, ever.  
"Sammy..." he whimpered to himself, because there was no way he could cry with Samuel around, "how am I ever going to live without you...?"

Meanwhile, Samuel headed upstairs because there was no way he was leaving him alone. Ajax had upset him by storming off in that way, but then again how did he expect him to react? They had been in love with each other for a long time, and one day – Samuel wouldn't be around anymore for him to love. Hold. Be with. Instead, he would be all alone. That thought sent a sharp pain up Samuel's chest.

He didn't want to leave him on his own, but it had to happen one day. He went to open the bedroom door he noticed it was locked.  
"Ajax, please let me in!" he said sadly. No reply. \  
"Ajax, please, I don't want this to end us!"  
"Is something wrong?" he heard a voice ask from behind him. He turned quickly to see Ace standing behind him.

"We had a little argument, that's all" Samuel said, "we're fine."  
"Need to get inside?" he asked coolly. Ace seemed like a very emotionless guy.  
"Yeah, I do."  
"Stand back," he said, removing his wand from his back pocket.

He waved his wand in the air.  
"UNLOCK!"

Samuel heard the door lock click. He gasped and looked at the other with shock. Ace just started to walk away, ignoring Samuel's reaction.  
"Uh, thank you!" he yelled after him.  
Ace waved his hand.  
"Sure, no problem."

Samuel watched him go down the stairs once again, then swung the bedroom door open. Ajax was laying on the bed, embracing a pillow. Samuel approached him, and he didn't look up at him – not even once. Samuel slid across the bed and snuggled into his back, since he was facing away from him.

"Ajax, I know that was hard for you to hear..."  
"I won't let you go," he cried.  
Samuel rolled Ajax over onto his back (even though it took a LOT of effort), and he was hid his face with the pillow.  
"Let it go" Samuel ordered.

He wouldn't release his grip. Samuel tried to pry it away from his face. He wanted to kiss him, wipe away his tears and give him the biggest, sloppiest kiss he could.  
"Ajax, please!" Samuel cried out. Ajax released his grip on the pillow at last, and Samuel threw it to the other side of the room. He looked into his puffy, red eyes and then kissed his swollen lips. Ajax kissed him back, but not with nearly as much passion as usual. He was upset – Samuel understood.

"You can't go. I won't let anyone take you from me" he croaked out, "do you hear me Samuel Blaze?"

Samuel knew he meant business. He called him Samuel Blaze. Samuel didn't reply, though, he couldn't make empty promises.  
"Sammy...I will protect you until my dying breath."  
Samuel snuggled into his chest, "stop it."  
"I will!" he exclaimed.  
"That's what I'm doing for you," Samuel admitted, "all our lives, you have protected me from the bad guys. The bullies. The teachers. The principal. The assholes on the playground. If I wanted to go on the swings, I got the swings because you did it for me. It's my turn to protect you, and the whole world from the vampires."

"Fuck everyone else!" he exclaimed, "this is about you and me now. The moment we've been waiting for our entire lives. Sammy, we don't have to do this. Run away with me."  
"Run away?! Where?!"  
"Anywhere you want."  
"Ajax stop being ridiculous. Running away isn't going to solve anything. They'll find me, don't you know that?"

Ajax bottom lip wobbled, "if you die, I'll die."

Samuel wanted to tell him he wouldn't. That he would be fine without him. He would move on eventually. He knew that wasn't the right thing to say, so he didn't say it. He didn't realise just how serious Ajax was.  
"Say something" Ajax begged.  
"I love you so much," Samuel said, teary-eyed, "and I can't possibly imagine living without you."  
His bottom lip wobbled more.

"Let's try to keep me alive, yeah? I'll do everything I can not to die."  
And I'll do everything I can to protect you."  
"But Ajax-" he said, looking deeply into Ajax's eyes, "if I die, don't be consumed with guilt. Know that you did everything you could, and that I appreciate everything you have done for me."

Ajax took a second to reply.  
"Yes."  
"Thank you."

They just lay there in each other's arms for a few hours. Samuel took in his scent, and they both cried every now and then. Samuel wanted to live. He wanted to be with him until he was old and frail. He wanted to have a life with him – whatever that may be. He just needed to know what to do to stay with him...even a little while longer.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN: MEDITATE

The night had been rough, but both Samuel and Ajax had woken up in better moods. Once breakfast was over, Sapphire brought them both out into the backyard. She had told them they would be meditating to meet their God's. Samuel already knew he wouldn't be able to concentrate - and would keep laughing.

Right in the middle of the garden, she had set up their meditation space on the grass. A blanket, some candles, and incense (Samuel knew what it was because his mum would burn it sometimes). There was also some weird looking stuff that he didn't know laying in a bowl. Thankfully, she didn't mention what happened the day before. It was hard for Samuel to get Ajax to stop crying and begging him not to leave him, so Samuel was relieved. He couldn't stand the thought of Ajax crying again, and if she mentioned it, he would.

"Okay boys," she said enthusiastically. Samuel didn't exactly feel like doing meditation that day, even though he felt better than the day before, but the show must go on.  
"What is all this?" Ajax questioned, motioning towards the blanket.  
"Preparation" she said.  
"What's that?" Samuel asked, pointing towards the bowl. She giggled in response.  
"That, Samuel Blaze, is Sage."  
"Oh?"

He had heard of Sage, but he had never seen what it looked like before. Sapphire took a lighter to the sage, set it alight, and then "saged" them with it, whispering prayers over and over and making them turn around slowly. Samuel was too scared to ask her why she was blessing them, so he decided not to. Nevertheless, Ajax asked.  
"Why are you blessing us?"

"To ward off evil spirits and demons. They can attack you while you're in a meditative state. Especially when you're meeting with your God. It's always best to say a quick prayer."  
"Oh wonderful..." Samuel muttered, rolling his eyes. Demons. Fan-fucking-tastic. He was officially petrified.

"No need to worry, this should keep them away," Sapphire said reassuringly, but neither of them was reassured.  
"SHOULD?!" Ajax gulped. Sapphire responded with a nod.  
"It will."  
She knelt down on the ground to light the candles and the incense.  
"Sit. Lay down. Whatever makes you most comfortable."  
Samuel started to laugh.

Sapphire frowned at him, so his laugh died down to a giggle.  
"I'm sorry!" he giggled, "this is just so weird. I knew this would happen."  
"Would you prefer to do your meditation away from me and Ajax?" she asked sternly. She didn't find it funny at all. This was her career, and she took is very seriously. Samuel nodded.  
"I'm sorry, Ajax. But I'll laugh too much."  
"It's okay" Ajax chuckled.

"You may begin" Sapphire told him, motioning for Samuel to follow her back inside.  
"Wait - what do I do?!" Ajax exclaimed after them. He really wasn't sure.  
"Find some meditation music on YouTube that you like, close your eyes, breath in and out slowly, and once you find yourself slipping into a trance, focus on your third eye."

Ajax nodded like he understood what she was saying, but he really didn't get it. Nevertheless, he whipped out his phone and started to scroll through the meditation music on YouTube until he found one with Native American flute music. He figured that would do the trick considering his ancestry. Samuel had followed Sapphire inside.

"I'm afraid you're going to have to take this more seriously, Samuel Blaze" she scolded as she led him upstairs to the room he and Ajax shared.  
"I'm really sorry," he said quietly, "I mean, I've always laughed during meditation. Even in school."  
"It's fine. You'll get used to it, I guess" she said politely.  
Once upstairs, they stepped into the bedroom.

"I have already blessed you with Sage, so you should be fine. If anything weird happens, call me. Tapping and noises are normal to a certain extent. I'll be outside your door."  
"O-okay" Samuel nodded, confused as to why she was waiting outside his door. Then he remembered the whole "chosen one" crap and how his life was probably considered more important than most people.

Sapphire shot him a smile, then left him alone in the room. Samuel paced the room for a few seconds, because he felt scared of everything. He suddenly got this overwhelming feeling in his chest, like someone was calling him and telling him to do it. He lay down on the bed without much thought, scrolling through YouTube until he found some calming meditation music he liked.  
"Here we go," he whispered to himself as he placed his phone on his bedside locker, and allowed it to play. He closed his eyes lightly and focused on relaxing his muscles one by one, along with his breathing. He tossed and turned for a few minutes, but he slowly started to relax and found himself slipping into daydream after daydream. He remembered what Sapphire said about focusing on his third eye. He had learned about that before – from Macy. Well, she had explained what it was and where it was allegedly situated.

So, he focused on the space between his brows, right on his forehead, still relaxing his body as best as he could.

Within minutes, Samuel had slipped into a proper trance. It surprised him how quickly it happened for him.  
"Good morning!" he heard a deep voice say behind him.

Samuel turned around to see he was on a beach. The seagulls were squawking, and the waves were gently crashing against the shore. He was standing right by the water, and then he felt it on his toes. Like he was really there. There was a man standing in the water, or what he initially thought was a man, holding a massive, golden trident. He squinted his eyes to see him better, because he was quite a distance away. He recognised him then from Greek Mythology photos online. Long, grey beard and hair. The trident. Green scales on patches of his skin. Furrowed brows (even though he seemed happy to see Samuel).

It was Poseidon.  
"Good morning," Samuel replied shyly. He chuckled. Samuel cringed. He wasn't exactly sure how to address a God, but he didn't seem bothered.  
"It's beautiful here, isn't it?" Poseidon asked him.  
"Yeah," he said, "it sure is."

His eyes flickered around before landing on the God once more.  
He waved the young boy over with his big hands, "come, join me."

Samuel hesitantly stepped forward and stepped deeper into the water.  
"Don't fear me," he said, frowning a little bit more, "I won't harm you."

"I'm sorry. I'm just a shy person" Samuel explained, earning a small laugh.  
"I know. I know everything there is to know about you, Samuel Blaze."  
Samuel had to ask. He pursed his lips, then asked, "How is my dad?"  
Poseidon was surprised by this question; he hadn't expected him to ask about him. Samuel assumed maybe he wasn't allowed to talk about it. Rules of Heaven or something.

"Your father is fine," he replied.  
"Does he know that I'm not?" Samuel asked then.  
Poseidon lifted his trident a little bit, pointing it at Samuel, "are you not?"  
"Aren't you supposed to know?" Samuel chuckled sadly.  
"What is on your mind? Tell me."  
Samuel wasn't sure Poseidon was supposed to be his agony aunt, but he felt this strange feeling. Like he could trust him with his own life.

Samuel looked down at his hand and started to fiddle with his thumbs.  
"It's just – up until a few weeks ago, I assumed I was a normal guy with normal ambitions. Aside from the magic stuff. I was doing my A-Levels and wanted to become a lawyer. Now, I'm studying magic and it's all just a little bit too daunting."

"Oh, why so?"  
"Because I'm going to die."  
Poseidon started to laugh. Very loudly. Samuel figured he missed the joke.  
"What's funny about what I just said?" he muttered.  
"Oh, Samuel Blaze" he said, wiping a tear from his eye, "you're not going to die."

"I'm not?" Samuel blinked.  
"No!" he exclaimed, "it's not your time. Not for a long time."  
Samuel sighed with relief.

"However," Poseidon said, his voice stern, "there is always the possibility if you don't learn how to control your magic. They're coming, Samuel Blaze. They are coming for you. I will protect you as much as I can – through the wand."  
"Oh. That's you helping me through the wand?"  
"Thanks to your father."

"I heard," Samuel sighed, "I just wish I could see him."  
"Oh, you wish to see him? I had no idea" Poseidon said, stroking his beard.  
"Well, yeah. I don't remember him and he's my dad."  
Poseidon pursed his lips, but Samuel could hardly see them through his huge beard.  
"You're a strong man, Samuel Blaze. I don't think you quite realise how powerful you are just yet."

"Huh?"  
"I haven't seen such power since I met your father."  
"But I've never done anything" Samuel mumbled.  
"That's what you have been made to believe."

Samuel looked at him deeply, waiting for him to continue.  
"Don't you remember setting your house on fire when you were eight?"  
"I did that?!" he gasped. He didn't remember that at all, but he did remember a few other incidents.

"Ah, I thought not. Your mother had Macy restrain your gifts out of fear."  
"Mum was...afraid of me?"

"Not of you. What you would do" he explained to him.  
Samuel gasped breathlessly. He couldn't believe he did that. Especially since he and his mum were lucky enough to be there to begin with.  
"Don't worry. It's one of the many issues that comes with being a Warlock. Especially the Warlock."

"The Warlock, hm?"  
"The bringer of light. The saviour."  
"So I've heard" Samuel mumbled.  
"So, you wanted to meet your father?"  
"I do. I'm ready!" he said, filled with bravery. Poseidon clearly admired that, because he chuckled happily.

"First, there is something you must see through your now clear eyes."  
"What is that?" Samuel asked. Everything around him suddenly started to fade, apart from the God. Samuel started to panic, but Poseidon gave him a reassuring smile.

"You must see the truth" he told him gently. Samuel was surprised his loud, deep voice could be so calming.

When things start to become clear again, he noticed they were no longer on the beach. No, they were in a small office. Samuel looked around, his breathing heavy and his heart racing from the shock of everything disappearing around him. His eyes landed on a male standing by the door of the office. He seemed frozen in time, but as soon as Samuel stepped closer to him – he noticed he was breathing heavily and shaking violently, almost like he was having a seizure. He had never seen him before, but his heart instantly recognised him.  
"Dad...?"

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: PROTECTOR

As soon as Ajax stepped into the trance, and came to, he noticed a massive olive tree before him. He blinked a few times, because the sun in the background was so bright it almost blinded him.  
"Finally! You've come!" a pretty female voice chimed behind him. Ajax quickly turned on his heel and seen a beautiful woman standing before him. She was wearing a long, white chiton, and her long, blonde hair was falling around her face.

"My name is Athena, Goddess of Wisdom and War. I am here to guide you through this difficult time, Mr. Acton, as you fulfil your destiny."

"You are forgetting to introduce me. I am his ancestor, after all" he heard an angry voice say. He turned around to where he had been facing before to see a tall, native American chieftain standing behind him. He was well over 6-foot-tall, and in that moment, Ajax remembered his father telling him he was descended from the Seminole tribe in Florida.  
"I'm Chief Micanopy. A grandfather of yours, of many descents."

"Woah...it's a pleasure" Ajax said with surprise to the both of them. He looked up after hearing an owl hoot, watching as it landed on a branch of the olive tree, joining three other owls he hadn't even noticed. Symbols of Athena.

Ajax didn't know what to say, so he just stared at them in disbelief.  
"It has come to our attention, that you are concerned about your love" Athena said gently.  
"Sammy...yes. I'm so worried" Ajax admitted, "I don't want him to die."

"Then you know what you must do" Micanopy told him, stepping towards Athena slowly.  
"I must protect him" Ajax said, sounding so sure. Micanopy and Athena stood side by side, smiling proudly at him.  
"You are the protector of the bringer of light. That is your sole role in all of this. The reason you were born" Athena explained.  
"You've always known of this" Micanopy told him, "that is your life purpose."  
"But how do I even begin to help him with this?"

"Learn to control your magic. You are strong. Maybe not as strong as the chosen one, but you are stronger than you believe."

"I know I am physically strong, but am I strong enough mentally to handle my magic? To keep him alive?"  
"Why of course!" Athena gasped, "it doesn't make us happy to know you doubt yourself in such a way, Ajax Acton."

"Please, just Ajax" he said, running his fingers through his hair.  
"He's coming for him" The chief told him. Ajax paused, his hand halfway through his hair. It fell limp by his side after a few seconds. He knew, somehow, who he meant.

"What does he want with him?" he questioned them both sternly.  
"Well, you did reject his daughter's love" Athena sighed, "he is very disappointed about that."  
"That's not what he truly wants with him, is it?"  
Athena shook her head after a few seconds.  
"No."  
"Then?"

"He wants him because he is the bringer of light."  
"How does he know all about that? I made sure not to tell Lola."

"You cannot hide much from Artemis Moonstone," Athena said, "unfortunately so."  
Ajax had had that feeling for a while, that he was coming for them. He was more so coming for Samuel, though. He had been waiting for Ajax to be away from his mother.  
"Why does he want to kill the bringer of – I mean Sammy?"  
"Oh, my dear! Haven't you figured it out yet?" Athena gasped.

Ajax looked at her with so much confusion in his eyes.  
"Artemis Moonstone is the darkness."

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN: TRUTH

"Dad...?" Samuel repeated.  
The male didn't even look at him. Samuel stepped in front of him, waving his hands in front of his face. Poseidon started to speak, about to tell Samuel that he couldn't see or hear them, but his father's eyes (which were rolled back in his head, only showing white) suddenly returned to blue. He suddenly started to run, darting right through Samuel, out the door and down the stairs. Samuel ran after him, realising he couldn't see him. He also realised that he was seeing the past – what had happened to his father the night he was killed. Had he had a vision or something? It looked more like a small seizure, but Samuel couldn't tell.

Samuel kept running, right behind him. He could hear his father's panicked breathing, but he kept running, so Samuel kept following him. He passed a woman on the bottom floor of the building who was seated at a desk by the entrance of the building.  
"Call my father!" he yelled at her, "tell him to meet me at my house immediately!"  
"Sir, is everything alright?!" the woman exclaimed, standing up.  
"PLEASE!" he shouted, running out the front door of the building. As Samuel followed him, he seen the woman, presumably his secretary, pick up the phone and press the buttons.

Outside, it was dark – the only light was coming from the bright, full moon and the old-fashioned streetlights. In that moment, Samuel realised he was in Clearview. His dad worked there?! As he followed him down the suspiciously empty streets, he heard someone chuckle darkly from the shadows. His dad stopped running, looking around and pulling his wand out of his suit pocket.

"SHOW YOURSELF!" he exclaimed, and just like what happened with Samuel, his wand emitted a bright blue stream of water. The chuckling continued, but instead of just one man, there were multiple men chuckling.

Samuel looked around, trying to see where it was coming from, but all he could think about was how his dad's spell didn't work.

"SHOW YOURSELF!" he repeated.  
Nothing. Just laughter this time. Full on, demonic laughter. Fear grew inside of Samuel. He realised he was about to watch his father die.  
"Don't be a coward, come out!" he roared, "if you want me – come get me!"

The laughter stopped for a few seconds, then continued, - coming from behind Samuel this time. Samuel quickly turned around to see five, cloaked figures standing behind him. One was wearing white, while the others were wearing black.

"Heh - there you are," Maximus smirked, "you've been watching me for a long time, haven't you?"  
"Oh, yes" the familiar voice snickered, "it's about time I found you on your own. You're much, much cleverer than before."

"Well I suppose I can thank my wife for that one."  
"Your wife. Vivian, isn't it?"  
"That is none of your concern, Artemis."  
"A-ARTEMIS?!" Samuel gasped, stumbling backwards with shock a little bit.  
"That's fine, considering I already know. I have someone working on that as we speak."  
"DON'T YOU DARE!"

And you have a child, too. A boy. Samuel. He's rather adorable, isn't he? It'd be a shame if something were to happen to him as well."  
"What do you want from me?!"

"I want you to die," Artemis snickered.  
"Happily, for them" came Maximus's quick reply.

"The bringer of light will finally perish!" Artemis exclaimed excitedly. His followers clapped and cheered.  
Maximus squinted his eyes at them, clearly disgusted by their happiness.  
"Just leave my son and my wife out of this, okay?"  
The cheering turned to amused laughter. Maximus squinted even more.  
"But he is your offspring!" Artemis laughed, "we cannot risk him taking revenge for you now, can we?"

"I swear to God, Moonstone, if you touch my kid I will -"  
"You'll what? Kill me?"  
His followers started to chuckle. So much laughter. They were so happy that Samuel's father was about to die.  
"You know that's not possible without the blade, you fool!"

His father didn't answer. He looked down at the ground, ashamed. Samuel could feel his emotions, overwhelmingly so. He felt like he had let them down. That he had failed him in particular. The blade. What blade was he talking about? A blade that kills all vampires, or just him? Samuel had been so lost in thought, that he missed it. Within seconds, Artemis Moonstone had stabbed his father in the chest. For a second, Samuel just stared, because he had never watched someone die before, but his reaction soon turned to horror. Samuel screamed, and just before he could run to him, he felt a hand on his shoulder holding him back.

Samuel looked back over his shoulder, afraid that they could see him all of a sudden. But behind him wasn't the laughing hooded figures. It was his dad. The real him. Still in his mid-twenties. He still had pitch black hair, and instead of the screaming man behind him – he was smiling.  
"Wh-dad?" he whispered with tear-filled eyes.  
"You don't need to see this," he said kindly. With a click of his fingers, they were back at the beautiful beach. Poseidon looked at Maximus sheepishly.  
"I do apologise, Mr. Ainsley."

Did a God seriously just apologise to his dad?

"That's quite alright," Maximus chuckled, motioning for Samuel to sit with him on a rock.  
"But dad-"  
"No buts, Sammy" he said quietly, "you shouldn't have to watch your old man die."  
Samuel pursed his lips. "It's not like I wanted to, it's just – I wanted to know what happened to you."

"You know now," he replied, "Artemis Moonstone was always my arch enemy, ever since I was a kid. When you were born, his feelings spread out between the both of us. When I died, all of that focus was on you."  
"Why didn't he kill me that night?" Samuel questioned.  
"Your mother protected you," Poseidon started to explain, "your grandfather went to your house to protect you, but he was killed by an unknown follower of Artemis. Your mother promised Artemis, who arrived later that night, that she would not allow you to discover your magic."

"Artemis Moonstone is the darkness," Maximus said, "he is your target."

"My target?"  
"Yeah. Your target."  
"But - I can't kill someone!" Samuel exclaimed.  
"You don't have to," Poseidon said reassuringly, "but now that he knows you are beginning your magical path, he is going to come for you."  
Samuel swallowed thickly, his eyes falling to the sand.

"What can I do...?" Samuel mumbled, "besides killing him, that is."  
"You can corner him, notify the magic council and have him arrested. You just need to get him caught," Poseidon advised.  
"You have to find the knife nonetheless," Maximus said sternly, "it's the only way to make him bow down."

"The only way, huh?" Samuel sighed, running his hands through his hair, "this is a lot."  
"I understand that," his dad said, placing both of his hands on his shoulders. Samuel looked up into his blue eyes and he instantly felt better. There was something about how he looked at him that made Samuel so proud of how far he had come – that made him so happy.

"You're strong, Sammy," Maximus said reassuringly, "you have survived many years of hardship. Remember, when you find the blade, keep it safe. Don't let anyone know you have it, or they may return it to him. Artemis has many followers throughout this country – and beyond. Many spies and allies. You have to keep this between you, Sapphire and Ajax. Understood?"

"I understand, dad," Samuel said, nodding slowly.

Maximus pulled back, "it's time for you to return to reality."  
"Can't I see you some other time?" Samuel asked sadly, his voice still filled with hope, though. He chuckled.  
"I'll be here whenever you need me, son. You just lay down, close your eyes, relax and come back here. Both Poseidon and I will be here waiting for you – always."

Samuel heard horses neighing, and when he looked up, a chariot pulled up beside them – drawn by horses. Samuel stared with amazement as Poseidon hopped into the chariot and gave him a small smile, "you'll do great, my boy. Do your best."

"Right!" Samuel exclaimed happily.  
"BACK TO THE PALACE, HYA!"  
With that, Poseidon whipped the horses with the reigns, and they sped off into the distance, above the water, then disappeared underneath. Samuel turned to look at his dad once again.  
"I'm glad you came," he said, "I have been missing you all these years."  
Maximus looked shocked, "so you remember, huh?"

"I do," Samuel said, looking out over the horizon. The water was rippling around his feet.  
"It's been a long time since I've seen you. I hate that" his dad admitted, "but as you got older I-I had to stop. You understand, don't you?"  
"Of course," Samuel smiled. Maximus pulled him into his chest, and Samuel took in his scent. He was wearing a sweet aftershave. Samuel usually hated sweet scents but, he loved it on him.

Maximus pulled back and cupped his son's face in his hands, pressing a kiss to his forehead. Samuel felt teary-eyed but he held it back.

"You can visit me in my dreams again soon, right dad?" he blubbered. Maximus nodded.  
"I will. I promise you."  
Samuel felt an overwhelming sadness wash over him. He wasn't sure if he was lying or not, but he needed to see him again. After all, it was partially his fault he was dead, at least, that's what Samuel thought.

Samuel used to dream of his dad every weekend. Every, single Saturday night without fail. He would ask his mum for a bath, then he'd climb into bed with his pacifier and his night-light on. He would excitedly watch a movie, drifting off to sleep after about half an hour, and then he'd dream of him. He would tell him all these exciting stories of a magical world. Samuel thought they were just that – just stories. He didn't know who the man was – and he had warned Samuel not to tell his mum he was having these nice dreams. Samuel didn't tell her, because he was afraid the man would go away if he did.

The dreams eventually stopped once he got to eleven years old. It broke his heart. He never told anyone about it, just in case the man decided to come back and tell him even more exciting stories about this world. It had been nice – having a father figure, little knowing he WAS his father. When he thought back, it was even more beautiful than before. His father had always been with him, right in his heart, and he had had no clue. His father never wanted to be apart from him. Maybe he was in body – never in soul. That was true love – that is what parents are supposed to do.

He felt emotional, but before he could say anything more, his father spoke, clicking his fingers.  
"Now. Wake up."

Samuel startled awake in the bed. He felt cold tears slipping down his cheeks, so he wiped them away instantly, realising he had been crying in real life too. He stood up too quickly, but he darted towards the door through his dizziness to tell Sapphire everything, but he got a surprise when he opened the door. Sapphire was no longer there. Instead, Kaiko stood there, with a cheesy grin on his face.

"Sapphire told me to stay here a bit. Watch over you" he explained, kicking his feet nervously, "I hope you don't mind. Ajax needed a word with her."  
"Oh, that's fine" Samuel shrugged.  
Kaiko motioned towards the staircase then, "Ace would like to speak with you for a minute. He said it's urgent."  
"Oh, he does?" Samuel blinked, confused. He didn't know him at all, so he was very surprised.

"Yeah," Kaiko nodded, "something about Moonstone or something."

Samuel's eyes widened like saucers. Kaiko looked sad, like he felt left out or something.

"Anyway, just thought I'd let you know," he said, starting to walk down the steps, "and by the way, congratulations on your wand. Perhaps you really are the chosen one."  
"Don't - word it like that," Samuel chuckled.  
Kaiko chuckled too, "fine, fine. I hope to get to know you better – you seem lovely, Samuel."  
"As do you," Samuel said, returning the compliment, "we should hang out later. You, me and Ajax."  
"Okay!" he beamed excitedly, "let's do that!"

Kaiko disappeared down the stairs them, and Samuel followed close behind. He knocked on Ace's bedroom door (he eventually found it thanks to the plaque with his name on it right in the middle of the door) and within seconds, the door swung open.  
"Ah, Samuel Blaze," he smiled, stepping back, "please, come on in."

CHAPTER NINETEEN: POSESSION

Ajax had been looking everywhere for Samuel, but he couldn't find him anywhere. He had just finished talking with Sapphire about what he had been told by his Goddess and his ancestor during his meditation. She had been just as shocked as he was, and he was wondering if Samuel's God had told him the same. The truth about Artemis Moonstone – that he was the one who had killed Maximus Ainsley. That he was the darkness they were so desperately trying to destroy.

He was just about to give up looking when Samuel found him. He looked different, kind of angry. Ajax assumed he had heard the news too. He took a few steps towards him, so they were both standing facing one another. He stared up at Ajax with this...angry look. Like he hated him or something. Like he wanted to slit his throat and bury him in the backyard.

No one spoke for a moment, but Samuel just stared at him with this hate-filled look.  
"Sammy?" Ajax called.

Samuel rolled his eyes in response.  
"Well, how did it go?" Samuel asked Ajax sternly.  
"How did what go?"  
Samuel huffed with annoyance, "the meditation – obviously."  
Ajax was confused. He was speaking to him like he was trash – like he was the problem. He thought he would have been...different.

"Well I found out Artemis Moonstone is the one who killed your dad," Ajax said indifferently, because he was mad at him, "did you get that too?"

"You must be joking," Samuel snickered, "Artemis Moonstone? Killed my father? You're an IDIOT!"  
What the heck, Sammy?!" Ajax snapped.

"You always go on and on like you know everything," He snarled, taking a few steps towards Ajax, Ajax backed away, hitting his butt off the arm of the sofa.  
"Like you're some kind of saviour or something. The truth is, Ajax, I have always hated you. You're annoying. Rude. Rash. You're not the type of friend I want to have."  
"Friend...?" Ajax croaked out, "is that how you see me, then?"

"Obviously," he snorted, "you didn't really believe me when I said I loved you, did you? Aww, poor Ajax."  
"You're not Sammy," Ajax snarled, knowing Samuel would never say those things to him, "what the fuck have you done with him?!"  
Ajax raised his shaky hand, pointing his wand at him. He was smirking at Ajax, all evil-looking and shit, and he knew that wasn't his Sammy.

His eyes go a bright red, and a wicked smile spreads across his face.

"FUCK YOU, AJAX ACTON!" He roared, lunging at him. Out of fear, Ajax dropped his wand and started running. Sure, Samuel was small, and he could easily take him on, but it wasn't Samuel currently in his body – and Ajax didn't want to risk hurting the real him if he was still alive. Ajax knew he had been possessed, it made no sense otherwise.

Hearing Sapphire humming in the kitchen, Ajax roared out, "SAPPHIRE!"  
She came running from the kitchen, hearing the fear dripping from Ajax's voice.  
"STOP!" she screamed out, holding up her wand and a stream of purple light emerged from it – blasting Samuel backwards into the dining room.  
Ajax gasped, his breathing short and shallow. He tried to run towards him, but Sapphire stopped him with her arm.

"It's too dangerous," she said, "his mind has been completely taken over, by the looks of it. I have to put him into an unconscious state until we figure out the cure."

Ajax's breathing was all raspy – he was having another panic attack. He fell down onto the floor, feeling helpless. What the hell had just happened, and who could have done this to Samuel, and why?

His vision became dotted, but Sapphire snapped him out of it when he seen a bright, purple light flashing from the dining room. He put his head in his hands and started to cry hard. How was he supposed to protect him like that?

He heard footsteps behind him, and he looked up to see the Hawaiian kid, Kaiko, standing behind him. He was looking around at the mess in the kitchen and living room, confused.  
"What happened...?" he muttered quietly. Ajax was struggling to breathe, so he couldn't answer. Kaiko knelt down beside him on the floor, taking his hand in his.

"Hey, deep breaths. In for four, out for four" he said, directing Ajax. Ajax followed his orders, looking into Kaiko's eyes. They didn't calm him like Sammy's. Sammy had the most perfect eyes.

Within seconds, Ajax had almost regained his normal pattern of breathing, so he looked away from Kaiko, down at the floor.  
"Sammy's been posessed."

Kaiko seemed instantly concerned, which relaxed Ajax. Perhaps he knew nothing of it, but he could have been acting.  
"But how?" he asked, "he was just with Ace like, five minutes ago."  
"He was?" Sapphire asked, standing in the doorway, "I should have known."  
"Known what?" Ajax asked breathlessly.  
"Ace is trained in dark magic," she whispered, looking around, "we'll have to keep an eye on him. Make sure he doesn't do anything else. I have had my suspicions for a while, but don't let on you think anything of it."

Ajax sighed, standing up shakily and entering the dining room. Samuel was laying on the floor. His chest was moving up and down slowly as he slept deeply. The pink tinge on his cheeks was slowly returning. He was slowly looking alive again – and less demented. He looked so peaceful, almost like he was dead, and if not for the breathing – Ajax would have thought he was. Ajax knelt down beside him, taking his hand. He had already failed him as his protector. How could he let this happen?

"You couldn't have known," Kaiko said reassuringly from the doorway. Ajax looked up at him for a spit second.  
"He's old cold," he mumbled, "how long will it be like this?"  
"Until I find the correct spell to remove the possession spell," Sapphire said, he was being controlled, probably by Artemis Moonstone."

"Did he say anything before you made him sleep?" Kaiko asked, "like, did he return or anything?"  
"He did" Sapphire sighed, looking over at Ajax, but Ajax was too busy looking into his sweet, innocent face.  
"What was it?" Ajax asked after a few seconds silence.  
"He said "Forgive me Ajax." I told him you didn't blame him, and then I performed the spell."  
Ajax felt the anger bubbling up inside of him. Artemis Moonstone, you know how to play the game.

"We have no choice but to go to him directly," Ajax said angrily, "I'll do whatever he wants me to do to save Sammy."

Sapphire stormed towards him, holding out her finger, "under no circumstances are you to go to that asshole!"  
"Why not?!" Ajax snapped, "Sammy is my boyfriend, and I have to save him! Athena told me I am his protector, so I will protect him!"  
"Ajax, you do know that if you go there – he will kill you."  
"He won't," Ajax said, "Lola will defend me."  
"And how is she to know about your visit?"  
"Ajax pursed his lips, "I'll text her."

Sapphire huffed, crossing her arms over her chest in defeat, "you know you're a real drag, kid."  
"You know it's the only chance we've got," Ajax said, kissing Samuel's knuckles before standing up, "if I get him to tell me how to cure Sammy, everything will go back to normal."  
"You reckon?" Kaiko asked uncertainly.

Ajax met his gaze, then looked back to his sleeping love. Beans and Salem were licking his face, seemingly trying to wake him up.

"It's the only choice we have, there's only one way to find out – and that's to do it."  
Ajax approached Kaiko, "take him to our room. Take good care of him and watch that Ace guy." "Got it" Kaiko nodded, moving towards Samuel's sleeping form and scooping him up into his arms. Ajax watched him carry him away – feeling like utter shit. That was his boy, and he was supposed to be there taking care of him – but he had no choice but to play along with Artemis's stupid game. Whatever he wanted; he would give it to him. As long as he left his Sammy alone.

He turned to face Sapphire, who was refusing to look at him. He turned away from her.  
"Take care, kid" she mumbled as he went to leave the room, "please don't die. Your mother will murder me if you do."

"I won't" Ajax said calmly, "I promise."

CHAPTER TWENTY: FIANCÉ

Ajax took the train back home to Brighton. When he got there, he realised it was eight days to Samuel's birthday. He was going to be eighteen, and he had a feeling he was going to miss it all. He said he would do anything to get Samuel back – and he meant it. Ajax knew what Artemis was going to request from him, he was going to request he marry his daughter. He hadn't heard from Lola since the night they broke up. Not even a hello as they passed on the street – or a text message. Not even a like on Facebook or Instagram.

He assumed she didn't want to marry him anymore, since she knew he was a gay man. He didn't think that would stop Artemis, though. He wanted them to get married at all costs – and at that point, Ajax was in too deep to say no. Before he could even register it, he was stood outside Moonstone Manor. For a few minutes, he just stared up at the darkness that it was. He had been there many times before but never had he felt so desperate.

The gates opened by themselves, and at first, Ajax was confused, but then he spotted Lola looking out her bedroom window at him. She was waving happily, like she was actually delighted to see him, despite the fact that he shredded her heart into a zillion pieces and practically danced on those pieces by telling her he was gay. She brushed the curtains back, then disappeared. Ajax trudged up the long driveway. By the time he reached the front door, it was pulled ajar – and she was standing there in deep, purple pyjamas. She wrapped her arms around him in a tight hug, which he returned.

"Oh, Ajax!" she exclaimed excitedly, "what are you doing here?!"

"I'm here to see your father," he said, pulling back from her. She looked confused, so he knew she didn't know a thing.  
"Oh?"  
"Yeah," Ajax nodded, "is he here?"  
"Actually," he heard a voice say in a cocky tone, "our father doesn't wish to speak with you at this present moment."

Ajax's head snapped in the direction of the voice to see Ace standing to the left, his arms folded across his chest. His eyes bore into Ajax's with so much hatred, but there was a hint of pleasure.

"You!" he exclaimed, "you'll take me to see Artemis Moonstone at once!"  
Lola gasped, "what's going on?!"  
"Nothing, dear sister," Ace grinned, "off to your room with you."  
"Father isn't going to hurt Ajax, is he?" she asked him quietly, "I already told him – I respect Ajax enough to be happy with his decision not to marry me."

"Quiet. To your room" Ace said sternly. She nodded and passed him quickly, glancing back at Ajax sadly.  
"What spell did you use on Sammy?" Ajax asked as soon as she was out of earshot. Lola was an amazing person, and she wasn't a part of this nonsense, so he didn't want to involve her in any way.  
"Spell? Don't be ridiculous!" Ace laughed manically, "I didn't use a spell on him!"  
"Then?"  
"I didn't do anything at all," he shrugged, "but let me tell you something, Ajax Acton. The world shall know true darkness once he's dead."

"Dead? Sammy? FUCK YOU. He won't be dying anytime soon, because I won't let that happen!"  
"What exactly are you going to do?" Ace questioned, stepping towards him. Ajax didn't back away, he didn't want to show fear.

"You don't know how to control your magic – so, you can't kill me. So, what will the protector of the famous bringer of light do? Hm?"

"That's enough, Jasper."  
"Jasper?" Ajax blinked. He looked up at the staircase to see no other than Artemis Moonstone stood there, a long, black clock on. He looked like a stereotypical vampire in that moment – it was kind of funny, but no one was laughing.

"So, you lied about your name to sneak into the house?" Ajax chuckled, "clever."  
Jasper smirked at him, then backed away.

"What exactly are you doing here, Mr. Acton?" Artemis asked with a small, annoyed huff, as if he hadn't been expecting him at all.

"Because he" Ajax pointed to Jasper, "has used black magic to turn my boyfriend against me."  
Jasper laughed – like it was hilarious, and Artemis chuckled.  
"Oh, that's because I told him to. I just didn't expect you to come so quickly."  
"WHY?!" Ajax snapped.  
"Why to get you here of course. You're too predictable, Mr. Acton. You love him that much that you would risk your own life or him, that much is clear to me."  
"Then why bother?"

Artemis snarled, "because Maximus Ainsley put his magic into that stupid wand, which gives his son the ability to do many things – many things that I desire to do. Yet, the dumb kid doesn't even know what power his wand possesses. The wand has the ability to bring life into the world – and to take it all away."  
"Sammy's wand?" Ajax questioned, "but how?"  
"Because Maximus Ainsley was the most powerful Warlock England had ever seen. Now, that role has been passed onto his offspring. The bastard knew it – which is why he had one child."

Ajax remained quiet, not knowing how to respond.

Artemis took a few deep breaths to calm his anger. He was jealous of Maximus Ainsley, that much was clear. Though Ajax didn't say it out loud. He would kill him, and then Samuel, without hesitation.  
"Follow me, Mr. Acton. Let us speak in private" he said, walking down the steps and moving towards the living room. Ajax followed close behind him.  
"Father!" Jasper exclaimed, "are you sure you don't want me in there with you, in case he tries anything?"

Artemis chuckled, shaking his head.  
"Mr. Acton knows better than to try any of that. He's a smart boy, aren't you?"  
He patted Ajax's cheeks and he scowled at him. Artemis chuckled again, this time with much more amusement, then entered the room. The fire was roaring – making the room unbearably hot. It was summertime, yet the fire was ablaze. Then Ajax remembered he was a vampire, and he was probably always cold.

"I assume you know what I will ask of you in return for waking up your beloved?" he asked, crossing his legs. Ajax looked deeply into the roaring flames.  
"You want me to marry Lola."  
"Indeed."  
"Then I accept."  
"Hm? So easily? Excellent."  
"But just know that Sammy is my true love – always and forever."

Artemis wasn't happy to hear that – of course.  
"Nothing can ever replace him."

"Ah. Well, I still forbid you to see him – understood?"  
Ajax gulped back the tears, "yes, sir."  
"Good boy. Always so good. Well, then. I will be confiscating your wand."  
"WHAT?!"  
"Oh, Mr. Acton. It's not that I don't trust you it's just – you are not required to learn how to use your magic now that we're on each other's side, hm?"

Ajax nodded, reaching his hand into his pocket. He took Ajax's wand and to his utter surprise – it didn't burst into flames. Ajax didn't bother asking why, he was too upset to care. He just wanted to see Samuel again.  
"I do have one more condition."  
"What's that?" Ajax asked.  
"I will not be waking Samuel Blaze until you say, "I do." Final condition, Mr. Acton. That's a promise."

"BUT-"

"No buts, Mr. Acton," he said, rubbing at his temples, "I expect good things from you as my son-in-law, and one of those things is to follow my orders EXACTLY as they are. No more trying to run away from your destiny."  
"My destiny?"  
Artemis didn't answer, he just stood up and walked towards the window, "hm, I'm thirsty. I wonder if the neighbours annoying cat is around. Hm, anyway. Off you go."  
"Where?"  
"To your new bedroom, of course. JASPER!"

Jasper entered the living room instantly. He seemed to have been waiting outside the door the whole time.  
"Take Mr. Acton to his bedroom and bring Lola to him. He has a very special question to ask her."  
"Yes, father" Jasper said, bowing his head a little.  
"Oh and Mr. Acton," Artemis said just as Ajax went to leave the room with Jasper, "you'll find the engagement ring on your pillow."

He had probably been planning the whole thing since Ajax left, and he had everything laid out exactly right. He was so screwed.  
'Sammy, how can I ever get out of this mess?' he asked internally, 'how can I ever see you again?'  
He followed Lola's older half-brother to his new bedroom. He sat down on the bed and clasped the small, black box in his large hands. The bedroom was so goth, it made him want to puke. He never did like that style. He lay back on the bed, still clasping the box and holding it against his stomach. He felt sick. He felt awful. Just then, the door swung open and he jolted right up.

Lola was stood there, still in her silk pyjamas. Ajax gave her a weak smile and she returned it.  
"Is everything okay?" she asked quietly, "are you okay?"  
Ajax swallowed thickly.  
Lola – um, will you marry me?"  
He scooted off the bed, his eyes not leaving hers. She looked confused as he slowly got down on one knee in front of her.

"Huh?" she blinked, "but Ajax, you're-"  
"Please," he said with pleading eyes, "marry me."  
Her shaky left hand reached towards him and he opened the box wide.  
"Yes" she whispered, "I'll marry you."  
"Thank you," Ajax said with tear-filled eyes. He removed the ring from the box and slipped it onto her slim, ring finger. She started to sob.

"I'm just...so happy!" she exclaimed. Ajax stood up from the floor and she jumped at him, wrapping her arms around his neck and sobbing into his chest. Ajax hugged her back.

"Yeah" he whispered sadly, "me too."  
The only thing he was thinking of in that moment was Samuel's face. How he wished he was there with him, how he wished he could marry him instead.  
"Let's get married really soon," Ajax said, as she pulled away from his slightly, "let's not waste any more time."

"Really?" she said, wiping her tears away, "Ajax, I knew you'd come around."  
"Yes, baby. Really. Let's just do it. Without hesitation."  
She smiled giddily, then pressed her lips to his in a sweet kiss. A sweet kiss, yet it felt so wrong.

Ajax kissed her back, feeling like a traitor. A cheater. A liar.  
"Let's get married in the fall," she said, "right before we go to university. Then we can have a baby. I don't mind raising them on my own."

"Don't be silly," Ajax said, "I'm not going to university."  
"You're not?"  
"No. I'm going to stay right here – with you and our baby."  
Lola giggled excitedly.  
"Our little family," she said happily, resting her head on Ajax's chest.  
"Yes. Our little family."

Ajax knew he would pay for his sins – and he wanted to. He deserved to.

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE: TOME

Sapphire had been sitting by Samuel's bedside for days. The poor thing just laid there, so still. He must have been starving, but she had no way to feed him. She forced water down his throat sometimes, little by little, to keep him hydrated. She hadn't heard a word from Ajax. It worried her so much, so she contacted Macy – and she was on her way. She had demanded to know why Sapphire hadn't contacted her straight away. Sapphire told her she wasn't sure, because she wasn't. She told Macy not to go near the Moonstone Manor. She reluctantly agreed, saying it was far too dangerous to go near it on her own without back up – without the blade, and without Samuel Blaze.

As Sapphire looked into his face, she felt like they had all failed him, including herself. It was all of their duties to protect the boy, not just Ajax. They all wanted to be free, they all wanted peace in the magical world. He was their only hope – but would he ever wake up?

A knock on the door knocked her from her thoughts. She glanced up to see Kaiko standing there, looking concerned. He gave her a look, and she shook her head. He had been doing that a lot, bless him. He was worried about Samuel – a guy he had just met. The moment she took Kaiko in, she knew he was a sweetheart. Just like the moment she met Samuel; she knew he was too. She knew she hadn't been very nice to him, but they all needed confirmation that he was the bringer of light. They had found it out through his ability to take his father's wand.

"Do you think-" Kaiko started, stepping into the room and closing the door behind him, "do you think he will ever wake up?"  
"I'm unsure" Sapphire admitted.  
"But what do we do if he doesn't?" he asked sadly, "he hasn't eaten in almost a week. He'll die."  
Sapphire looked into Kaiko's worried eyes and sighed, "we'll just have to let him."  
"Hwo could you say that?!" he exclaimed angrily. Sapphire understood he was hurt. It wasn't a nice situation for anyone, and with Ajax gone – it made everything worse.

"Look, Kaiko. Ajax's mother will be here in a few hours and we'll all discuss our next move towards Moonstone."  
"Moonstone will win," he said shakily, "none of us are strong enough to take him on."  
"Are you watching sides?" she snarled at him.  
"Of course not!" Kaiko exclaimed, "my loyalties have always been with the bringer of light. My father died believing in Maximus Ainsley, and I will die believing in his son if I have to."

Sapphire's face softened. What a good kid.

"I'm sorry for snapping," she said, standing up from her chair which was placed by Samuel's bedside, "I'm stressed."  
"I understand," he said kindly. Sapphire took a hold of his shoulders and looked him in the eyes.  
"No matter what, you have to be strong. Artemis Moonstone will promise you the sun, moon and stars but he will ultimately kill you."  
"I know," he said, ashamed, "after all, my father almost fell for it."  
"Indeed" Sapphire said.

Kaiko's family had been seen as traitors to the light for many years. His father had ended up on Moonstone's side for a little while, trying to bring the darkness. Kaiko was a merman, he got that DNA from his mother, and mermen/maids can be vicious. However, Kaiko was a generous, young boy of twenty years. He had barely left Samuel's side since he went to sleep, and he was so scared he would never wake up, which was a strong possibility. He wanted to avenge his father's death – but also Maximus Ainsley's as well.

"We should keep looking through my books for the cure," Sapphire said to him, "we don't have much time."  
"Yeah," he nodded, looking over Sapphire's shoulder at Samuel, "we should wait for Ajax's mum as well."  
"Yes."  
They left the room together, moving down the stairs to the kitchen, where Sapphire had hundreds of books waiting to be read. Information on black magic of all sorts filled the pages. So far, she hadn't found a single thing related to possession out of everything she owned. It was disappointing for sure. She and Kaiko flicked through them, but found nothing of value. An hour later, Macy stormed into the kitchen.

"Macy!" Sapphire exclaimed. She was happy to see her, but she didn't look happy to see Sapphire.

"Sapphire, we don't have time for greetings," she said in a rushed tone, "we have to get down to business."  
"Of course."  
She pulled a giant tome out of her backpack, slamming it down on the table. Kaiko and Sapphire flinched at the loud bang.

"This tome is our last hope" Macy explained, "it's full of secrets about dark magic. Forbidden spells – and how to reverse them."  
"Excellent!" Kaiko exclaimed, sitting forward in his seat, "have you found anything?"  
"Not yet," she said, sitting beside Sapphire at the table, "I just rushed out the door with it as soon as Sapphire called me."

"What about Ajax?" Kaiko asked, "what do we do about him?"  
"Our only hope in saving him is to wake Sammy up and then find the blade."  
"Do we absolutely need Samuel to get the blade?" Kaiko then asked her.  
"Yes, it's essential. He is the only one who can awaken its powers. It remains dormant for everyone else."

"Interesting," Kaiko sighed, leaning backwards in his seat, "it's fascinating."  
"It's no good unless we wake him up," Sapphire reminded him, "now, let's get looking through this book."

Two hours passed like the wind – and just as they were about to give up hope (since they were reaching the end of the book), Kaiko suddenly leant forward, clicking his fingers at them. It had been his turn to look through it a half hour before.  
"I got it!" he yelled excitedly. Macy and Sapphire jumped up, looking over his shoulder at the old pages.

Their eyes scanned the pages, then widened.  
"Oh, fuck" Sapphire sighed.  
Kaiko finished reading it, as did Macy, and they both let out an exasperated sigh.  
"Are you kidding me?!" Macy groaned, "we'll never get that."

They needed to mix Samuel's blood with the blood of a living, magic-wielding relative, boil it, then pour it over him when it was cool, while simultaneously chanting his God's favourite prayer, beginning for his life and his soul to return to its original state. Even then, it wasn't guaranteed.

"We don't even know who his God is" Macy said sadly.

"We do!" Sapphire exclaimed, "his wand! It's Poseidon, the same as his father, and you're forgetting about her."  
"Oh! You're right! How could I forget?" Macy gasped.  
"Can someone fill me in here?" Kaiko said, waving his hands in the air like 'I'm still here.'

"Oh, sure. The night that Maximus Ainsley passed away, his father was also murdered while on his way to protect Sammy and his mother, Vivian" Macy explained, "but he has one remaining magic using relative...his grandmother."  
"Oh?" Kaiko gasped, "does he know this?"  
No, he doesn't. Viv never told him in order to protect him. She didn't want him going to look for her."

"Shit...poor Sammy has been through a lot, huh?" Kaiko said sadly.

"He has. Which is why this all needs to end soon. We need to wake him up, then go save my Ajax. Those two belong together, this nonsense needs to end" Macy snarled.  
"Do you think he did all this just to make Ajax marry his daughter?" Sapphire gasped.  
"Possibly," was Macy's angry reply.

"Gee, that's a bit too far, don't you think?" Kaiko sighed.  
"We have no time for idle chitchat" Sapphire said, standing up, let's get moving. To Clearview. Kaiko, you stay here and guard Samuel Blaze."  
"Got it. With my life."

Sapphire and Macy slipped through the mirror at the end of the garden moments later. As soon as they did, they noticed that the animals were not the same as usual. Usually, they were cheeky and cheerful. Unsure of what was going on, Sapphire approached a deer, noticing his head was hanging low.

"What happened?" Sapphire asked worriedly. The deer looked up, then looked back down, shaking his head sadly.  
"The bringer of light has died, haven't you heard?"  
"What? No, he hasn't!" Macy protested.  
"You know him?" another female deer nearby asked.

"Yes, we know the bringer of light personally," Macy said, "he grew up in my company."  
"What's he like?!" another chimed.

"He's a strong, young man who's been through a lot of pain. He had to be put into a deep sleep, he was possessed by Artemis Moonstone."  
"Oh no!" they all exclaimed sadly.  
"It's okay, we're working on waking him up" Sapphire said, "but we need everyone's thoughts and prayers to the God Poseidon."

"We will pray for the bringer of light, of course!" they all exclaimed, "let's get praying! Spread the word far and wide!"  
All the deer dispersed to their different parts of the forest – getting prepared to pray for Samuel. It was then that Sapphire realised how badly all of the magical world needed him – not just them.

She heard a sniffle coming from Macy, so she turned around and placed her hands on her shoulders.  
"What's wrong?"

"It's just – that kid is so loved, and he has no idea. Every creature in this forest is going to pray for his recovery."

"He is" Sapphire smiled, "by all those far and wide. Let's get going. We have a chosen one to save."  
Macy wiped at her eyes. She was worried about her son as well, but everything would work out as it should. They would save Samuel Blaze – and then he would save the world.

Meanwhile at the Moonstone manor, Ajax was seated in the study. Artemis had agreed to allow him to send a break-up letter to Samuel. He stared at the single, lined-paper on one of the desks. He clicked the pen open, then closed multiple times. There was no way for him to say it – because he had never imagined breaking up with Samuel – not ever. He stared at the paper for a few more seconds before his sight went blurry. He blinked, resting his chin in his hand and began to write:

Sammy,

It's torture here without you. Being alone has made me realise how much I rely on you. How much your smile keeps me sane. God, I wish I could kiss you right now. My lips feel just as lonely as I do.

To get straight to the point, this isn't a love letter. It's...a break-up note. Trust me, there's no way I would do this under normal circumstances. I never dreamed of the day where I would leave you, but it's for you. Just like everything else I have ever done. I'm marrying Lola in the fall – and we're going to start our family. To appease Mr. Moonstone.

When you wake up and read this – don't feel sad. Just know that in the next lifetimes, I will choose you over and over – just like I am choosing you now. Except next time, we'll be together forever. Sammy, I'll miss your eyes the most. Blue's a colour I could look at forever. But not just any blue – your blue. God, I'm crying so hard writing this. Just know that I am utterly heartbroken.

I'm always on your side. You are the bringer of light. Make me proud, Sammy. Make everyone around you proud. I love you with all my heart. Be happy. Be Sammy.

Love,

Ajax.

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO: HEAL

Samuel had been sitting on the beach for what felt like forever. His dad was with him, as was his God, Poseidon. Samuel felt terrified that he was never going to wake up – but his dad kept reassuring him that Poseidon was healing him.  
"Everyone is trying to save you," Maximus told him.

"I feel sick," Samuel kept telling him, but he kept shrugging it off with a, "you're going to be fine."

Samuel thought he was holding onto false hope. He didn't think he was going to be able to hold on for much longer. While they had been feeding him bread and cheese on the beach, his physical body hadn't had any food in a while. Maximus had informed him that Sapphire had been forcing water down his throat. He felt so grateful for her, and he kept asking where Ajax was, but he said he didn't know. He kept disappearing to check for him – then came back and shook his head.

Samuel was laying on a rock feeling tired and weak. He could barely open his eyes or lift his head. He just wanted to be with Ajax so badly, but there was no way for Ajax to get to the beach.  
"Poseidon is going to be able to keep you going until they wake you" Maximus told him.  
"When will that be?" Samuel croaked out.  
"Soon, I promise."

He wouldn't tell Samuel any of the details. Samuel thought he knew more about what was going on in reality than he was letting on. Maybe it was because whatever it was, he wouldn't be able to handle. All he knew was that he had been possessed. The last thing he remembered was Ace raising his wand at him, a flash of light, and then darkness. Then he woke up on the beach. For the first few days, he was okay, just hungry. Then, it progressed to not being able to move properly and constantly feeling like he might slip away and die.

His dad had been really taking care of him. Poseidon was sitting on a meditation position, hovering over the water. He hadn't moved in days. He was trying to keep Samuel alive by feeding him his energy, which he received from the water. He would have been dead if not for Poseidon. His dad had told him that the curse not only allows someone to control someone, but they can also drain their life away day by day. Samuel was so scared – he didn't want to die. Not yet. Not while he was so young. He couldn't leave Ajax on his own.

He tried to sit up, but he was so dizzy he ended up falling back down, his head smacking against his dad's lap.  
"Don't try to move!" Maximus scolded, "you need your energy."  
"I want to see the water" he said, his eyes closed.  
"Huh?"  
"I want to see it before I go."  
"Sammy, stop! You're not going to-"  
"Dad, please" Samuel said, gulping back the tears, "I'm so close."

"So close to what...?"  
"I'm sorry, dad. I can't do it anymore" he said, beginning to sob, "I'm so tired."  
He just wanted to go.

"Please, Sammy. Listen to me" he said, lifting Samuel up slightly into his arms. He was cradling him as he cried – and crying himself.  
"You're the only one who can save everyone. I couldn't, but you can!"  
"No, dad" he said, shaking his head over and over, "I wasn't strong enough."  
"You are," he replied, cradling him closer, "you're the strongest Warlock."  
"I wish I wasn't."

Maximus remained quiet.

"Dad?"  
"I just – I understand that."  
"Dad - please take me to the water."  
"Sammy, don't go. If I take you to the water – will you keep fighting?" he cried.  
"I-yeah" Samuel lied.

He just wanted to see the waves. Close his eyes as he listened to them crash against the shore and the rocks. He wanted to hear the ripples as his heartbeat faded away. He wasn't strong enough – he never was. They all misunderstood. Just because he had been the son of Maximus Ainsley – didn't make him a hero. Or maybe he was, in his own little way. They would learn from the mistake they had made with him. They would find the true hero.

Maximus lifted him up into his arms and carried him closer to the water. He set Samuel down right next to the water, but not too close, in case he got wet. Samuel leaned his head on his dad's shoulder as he sat next to him.  
"Better?" Maximus asked quietly. Samuel hummed contently.  
"So much better."  
"Good" he whispered, kissing the top of his son's head. Samuel smiled weakly.

"You know, dad. Sometimes there is no happily ever after."  
"What do you mean by that?" Maximus asked.

"Well., sometimes the hero has to die to save everyone else. Don't you agree?"  
"Hm, I suppose so. What are you getting at?"  
Samuel chuckled, nuzzling his face into his dad's shoulder, "I'm just saying that I tried. That's all that matters. I tried so hard to get there, but...I couldn't."  
"Sammy?" Maximus gasped, snapping his head to the side to look at his son. Samuel clutched onto his arm with his remaining strength. He was trying to hold him there. That was what he wanted – to slip away with his head on his dad's shoulder.

"You're a great dad. You really did believe in me, huh? I love you dad. You made my last moments truly happy."  
Maximus was sobbing again, knowing there was nothing more he could do. A single tear slipped down Samuel's cheek. He wasn't scared anymore – not while his dad was with him. He heard a voice calling his name as everything turned to black and he slumped over. It wasn't a voice he recognised.

"It's not your time, Samuel Blaze. Come on, then. Wake up! Wake up!"  
....and then he gasped awake, jolting up in the bed. He looked around, scared, but he calmed down slightly when he realised, he was in the bedroom he shared with Ajax. Kaiko jumped when he sat up, his eyes wide with shock.  
"SAMUEL!" he exclaimed.  
"Food," Samuel managed to croak out, "please, food."

Kaiko had been eating a bag of skittles, which he threw at Samuel instantly. Samuel just stared at them, unable to move to pick them up. Kaiko snatched them back, chuckling quietly.  
So, I have to feed you then, huh? Open wide."

Samuel slowly opened his mouth, and Kaiko started to pop Skittles inside. He had lost a bit of weight – but nothing too extreme.  
"Is this a dream?" Samuel suddenly asked.

"Hm? No. Not as far as I know" Kaiko replied with a small giggle, "I'll go get you some more food. I'll also start cooking something. What do you want?"  
"Anything. Just – anything. Please."  
"I'm on it. Oh and – a letter just arrived for you this morning. Strange, there's usually no post on a Saturday. Must have arrived via magic."

Samuel looked to the side, and on the bedside locker sat a letter. He was curious about its contents, but all he could do at that moment was stare at it.

"Where's Ajax?" Samuel asked. Kaiko hesitated before shaking his head.  
"Ajax has been missing for a week. I'm sorry, Samuel. His mum is here."  
"Missing? Macy, where?"  
"They went to Clearview to um...get your grandmother."  
"My what?"  
"Long story, Samuel. Just rest. I'll get cooking. They will explain everything when they return. They will be so happy to see you awake."  
"Thanks."

Kaiko gave him a small smile, then left the room, closing the door behind him. Samuel lay back down. He thought he had died. He was so close to death and then...he woke up back at the house. Where the heck was Ajax? He had such a bad feeling about it all. He reached for the letter, hoping there was some form of clue in that. He struggled to tear open the envelope, but he managed to do it in the end. His shaky hands unfolded the paper, then his tired eyes scanned the paper. He dropped it, and it floated to the floor. His heart skipped a beat, and his eyes welled up with heartbreak induced tears.

He had left him.

He dumped him. No. No. No! This couldn't happen! Not now, not after everything and all that waiting. Not after all that uncertainty that it would ever happen to begin with. He tried to stand up out of bed, but he instantly fell and curled up into a ball on the cold, wooden floor. To say he sobbed is an understatement. He wasn't sure he could ever forgive him for it. No matter how bad things were for him, Samuel always stood by his side. He always loved him, that's why. Did he ever really love Samuel at all?

A few minutes later, Kaiko came running into the room and lifted him back up onto the bed. He felt so small, helpess and useless. He couldn't even pick himself up off the damn floor!  
"What are you doing? You can't stand up!" Kaiko exclaimed, knowing he had tried to. Once he noticed Samuel was crying, his stern face softened, but he looked confused.  
"He dumped me..." Samuel whimpered. Kaiko's eyes widened with confusion.  
"Wait - what?"  
"He's left me for her."  
"Make sense!" Kaiko gasped.

Samuel looked up into his chocolate brown eyes.  
"Ajax is going to marry Lola. He's dumped me. He sent the letter, and that's what he explained to me in it."  
"Oh, Samuel, I'm so sorry" he said quietly, looking away from him. Samuel knew he felt awkward because he was snotting all over himself like a toddler.  
"Am I that hard to love?" he cried.

"Not at all!" he gasped, "you're a great guy. Maybe he was forced into it."  
"He said he has to do it, for me."

"See! When's the wedding?"  
"In two weeks."  
Kaiko looked furious. "Thar Moonstone prick sure moves quickly. Listen, Samuel."  
He took a hold of Samuel's shoulders, "pull yourself together. That's your man. Are you just going to let her take him?!"  
"I have no choice. I can't use magic."  
"Magic comes naturally, as does true love. Don't you love him?"  
"With all my heart and soul."

"Then you know what to do, don't you?"

Samuel's eyes trailed to the bedside locker, where his wand sat.  
"I have to get him back."  
"Yes!"  
"I also have to find the blade and kill Moonstone."  
"Ye-wait, what?!"

"It's what I have to do" Samuel said, looking back at him, "are you with me?"  
Kaiko smiled, "always, chosen one."

Samuel scowled at him and he chuckled, lifting a piece of banana bread to Samuel's lips.  
"Say 'ahh.' Aww, come on! It's fun!"  
"Ahh" Samuel chuckled, as he shoved the banana bread into his mouth.  
"Let's focus on building up your strength. Then we go for Moonstone. Your boyfriend needs you. The whole world needs you."

Samuel nodded in agreement.  
He was coming for Artemis Moonstone, and he wasn't going down without a fight.

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE: GRANDSON

The shop was quiet that day, like most days. Angelica kept the shop running for her late husband who she missed dearly, as well as the incoming young Warlocks and Witches who needed their wands. Jolie's was the only wands shop available in Clearview, so the shop was very important to everyone there. Still, not many Warlocks and Witches were willing to learn magic anymore – not since her son, Maximus Ainsley died.

If Angelica could have changed the fact that he was the bringer of light, she would have done so in a heartbeat. She and her late husband never understood what made him like that. They were just an average Witch and Warlock, but when he was born – they knew instantly that he was special. Then, when he married Vivian and she gave birth to Samuel; they knew he was special too. They didn't think he was quite as special as Maximus, though, since he was a half-blood. Turns out they were wrong.

Angelica went into the back room, because there was not much to do out front, and started to make some green tea. She had always been a huge fan of tea – especially green tea. It made her feel happy and healthy ever since she had been left there on her own. Not much had changed since then in Clearview – except her. I suppose growing old doesn't sound nice to anyone, hm?

Just as she went to take a sip of her tea, she heard the bell above the door ring. She was confused, because she wasn't expecting anyone that day and she hadn't heard about any new Warlocks or Witches joining the covens. She left the back room, only to be greeted by no other than Macy Acton and Sapphire. Both looked worried and exhausted, like they'd had a long, long day.  
"Oh!" Angelica said with surprise, "it's lovely to see you both!"

She motioned with her hand for them to follow her into the back, and they did. She poured them both a cup of green tea and slid them across the counter carefully using her magic. A tiny bit of tea spilled out of Macy's cup so she wiped it up with a cloth, then took that long desired sip of her tea.  
"What brings you two ladies here to me today?"  
"Samuel Blaze" Sapphire replied, staring into her teacup, but not drinking it. Angelica quirked a brow.

"Oh, how is my grandson?" Angelica asked, "not that I am ever allowed to know, of course."

Macy looked embarrassed, then looked to Sapphire, then back at Angelica, "he's been possessed."  
Instantly, Angelica dropped her teacup, hearing it smash against the wooden floor. The hot tea splashed against her leg, burning her skin, but she didn't react to the pain. She was too stunned. This was exactly what she feared the moment he told her who he was. That Moonstone moved quicker than even Angelica had imagined he would, but she knew something would happen, nonetheless. She sat own on a nearby stool, holding her head in her hands.

"He's in a coma right now. I had to do it" Sapphire explained, "he was demented."  
"What do you need me to do?" Angelica asked, looking up at Sapphire, "I'll die for him."  
Macy shook her head, "no need. We just need some of your blood. That's all."  
"As you wish."  
Angelica reached into the cutlery drawer for a knife and held it against her thin skin.  
"NOT...HERE!" Sapphire yelled, snatching the knife from her hands, "back at my house, please and thank you."

"Samuel Blaze cannot know I am his grandmother," Angelica said with a serious tone, a reminder, "his mother forbade it."

"Forget about that. Sammy needs us right now. What Viv said and did all those years ago is unimportant presently" Macy told them.  
"Good. I agree," Angelica said, walking towards them, "right well – what are ye waiting for? Take me to him."

"Right," Sapphire said, "are you going to close up shop?"  
Angelica nodded, reaching for her keys as she passed the counter. She jingled the keys a little to show the other two, then they exited the store and Angelia locked up, using her wand to turn out the lights inside and flip the OPEN sign to CLOSED.

"Off we go, then. Chop chop!" Angelica said to them, following them towards the exit of Clearview and through the forest. They emerged through her portal mirror to her home. Angelica hadn't seen it in a long time, but her garden had become even more beautiful than before. As they rushed though the garden, they heard a loud crash coming from inside. Fear overtook the three of them, so they dashed towards the house at full speed and burst through the back door to see no other than Samuel Blaze and Kaiko practicing their magic.

Samuel smiled sheepishly at them, "Sorry, Sapphire. I kind of broke your ornament."  
Their mouth dropped open.  
"But you were-" Sapphire started.  
"Possessed. I know" Samuel shrugged, like it was nothing at all, "but I'm awake now. That's all that counts. Now, no more delays. I have a man to win back."  
"Win back? You know where Ajax is?!" Macy exclaimed. Samuel reached into the back pocket of his black jeans and pulled out the letter, what he was naming his 'inspiration.'

Macy took the piece of paper from him gently, eyes scanning the page.  
"He's insane..." she whispered through tears.  
"What's happened?" Sapphire asked worriedly.

Macy handed Sapphire the letter and covered her mouth with her hand as she cried. Samuel gave her a long, tight hug, hushing her. She hugged him back, obviously needing the comfort. Angelica moved behind Sapphire, both of them reading the letter together. Ajax had walked right into Moonstone's trap. It would be hard to get him back.

"Realistically, we can't get him back without the blade" Sapphire said, handing the paper back to Samuel. He tucked it back into his pocket, then returned to hugging a crying and worried Macy.

"We need to get it, then" Kaiko nodded, "somehow. Someway. Nobody has seen that blade for hundreds of years. We're hardly going to find it in a week."  
Sapphire grinded her teeth loudly, "I have a feeling I know where it is."

"Where...?" Samuel asked hesitantly.  
Sapphire sighed.  
"The Moonstone Manor."  
"NO! HOW?!" Samuel yelled.  
"It's obvious, really" Kaiko sighed, "it's the only blade that can kill the bastard. He would want to hide it at all costs, right? The easiest way to do that is to keep it near and dear."

"How the hell are we supposed to get inside? He probably has like, vampire dogs with super smell," Samuel groaned, sitting down on the floor and cradling himself, "I'll never save Ajax."  
"Is that an Ainsley giving up I see?!" Angelica barked.  
Samuel snapped his head in her direction, remaining silent.  
"An Ainsley never gives up. Not until their dying breath. Not even then. Your father would not approve."

"Angelica!" Macy gasped, "he's just a kid!"  
"No... she's right...." Samuel said lowly, standing up, "my dad wouldn't approve, and when I go back to see him, he'd tell me that himself."  
"What...?" Angelica blinked, "you've spoken to your dad?"  
"All the time," Samuel nodded, "he and my God, Poseidon stopped me from dying. I think."  
"Oh wow..." Angelica said, her eyes tearing up.

An emotional silence filled the air, before Angelica went to turn around.  
"I suppose I am not needed here after all. Good luck, Samuel Blaze."  
"Wait!" Samuel laughed, "of course you are needed. Nanny."  
He knew. Somehow.

Angelica smiled at him, and he approached her slowly, wrapping his arms around in her a tight hug. He was a small kid, like his mum, but that just made him all the more precious to her.

"I don't want to lose you again," Angelica whispered to him, "it was painful enough the first time."  
"You won't," he told her, "not this time."

"Good boy."

After a few more seconds, Samuel stepped back away from her, "so, we need a plan. Operation save Ajax – and find the blade."

"Well, let's get down to business" Macy said, pulling out a chair and taking a seat at the kitchen table. Everyone did the same thing, including Angelica.  
It was finally time for her to avenge Alec and Maximus's deaths.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR: FRIENDS?  
Ajax was so worried about Samuel.

He kept praying to Athena to keep him safe. He kept begging for his life. Ajax just couldn't imagine a world without Samuel in it - and he didn't even want to try. He couldn't help but feel like it was his fault for being so selfish. He should have just shoved his feelings to the side for him and married Lola. Then he wouldn't be in danger. Then again, he never would have been able to kiss Samuel - or hold his hand - or tell him he loved him all the time.

He hadn't even seen Artemis since the night they spoke and came to their agreement. Not even at dinnertime. Lola was excited to marry him, and all she wanted to talk about was the wedding. Ajax felt like he was betraying her too because he was being forced into the wedding, and she had no idea. She thought he had changed his mind about being gay and realised he really did love her. He felt sorry for her in a way that she believed people did that.

They sat in the hallway playing chess together. Ajax had no idea what he was doing, or how to play, but she was trying to teach him.  
"Chess is a great game, and if you want to marry me - you have to learn" she had said with a small giggle.

Ajax had wanted to say: "news flash, Lola. I'm being forced to marry you," but he obviously didn't.

It was such a dull life. Breakfast. Chess. Lunch. Chess. Dinner. Chess. Bed. Repeat. He hated it! He felt like he was about to explode. He hadn't even been outside since he arrived. Mind you, it had only been two days, but that was beside the point. He felt so claustrophobic.

"What did you do while you were away from me?" she suddenly asked him.  
Ajax was taken aback by her question. She was pondering her next move but she looked up at him for a split second when he took a while to reply.  
"I went to learn my magic" he reminded her, watching her hands make her move – winning the game.

"Checkmate" she smiled, "with Samuel Blaze?"  
"Yeah."  
The mention of his name sent a shooting pain through his chest. His poor heart couldn't handle much more of being away from him.  
"Did you two...you know?"  
"What?"  
"Have sex."  
"No."  
"Good."

"Why is that good?" Ajax chuckled.

"Well, it's nice to know that I'm the only one you've made love to."  
"Well we did things. Just not all the way."  
"Well, it makes sense" she nodded, standing up and patting her dress skirt down.  
"What makes sense?" he asked, quirking a brow.  
"That you two didn't have intercourse. Because you weren't really attracted to him, right? Since you're not gay."

Ajax's teeth grinded together. She was making him angry. He knew she didn't mean to, but she was making him so mad.  
"I was," Ajax said confidently, "he's a cutie."  
Lola frowned, "sure he is but...thinking he's a cutie and being in love with him are completely different. If you really loved him, you'd be with him right now."  
"IT'S NOT LIKE I HAVE A CHOICE!" Ajax yelled.

Lola flinched - and a silence filled the entire hallway, apart from the echo of his voice.  
"What does that mean...?" she whispered.  
"It means I don't want to marry you at all, Lola. It means I have to because your father cursed my Sammy!"  
"That's not true!" she gasped, "my father would never hurt Samuel!"

Ajax scoffed loudly, "that's exactly what a brainwashed daddy's little girl would say."

"I'm telling you, my father had nothing to do with it!" she protested, getting closer to him, "my father may seem scary and intense sometimes, but he's a good man."  
Ajax scoffed even louder, earning a frown from her.  
"What's so funny?"

"It's just...it's not exactly what I was thinking when he cursed my boyfriend to lure me here, then threatened to never cure him unless I married you."

Lola looked utterly heartbroken when he said that. She didn't seriously think it was any other way, did she? She couldn't really have thought that Ajax was suddenly 'not gay' and realised 'he didn't really love Samuel' and that she was the one? That is just ridiculous!  
"Ajax - is that really true?" she whispered sadly.  
"I'm afraid so."

Lola sat back down on the chair and stared at the floor for a good few minutes, crying. Ajax allowed her to cry a little, she needed to.  
"I care about you" he said when he felt like it was an appropriate time, kneeling in front of her and taking her hands in his, "but I'm in love with Sammy."  
"You always have been" she giggled through tears, "it's sweet."  
Ajax didn't answer because the situation he was in with Samuel was far from sweet. Losing him had always been Ajax's biggest fear - and he needed Lola's help.

"I need your help" Ajax said hopefully, "we need to take your dad down."  
"Like, kill him?" she gasped. Ajax shook his head.  
"Of course not! I know he's your dad, but I'm sure you can understand that he did some very bad things."

Lola looked down at the floor again, then back up at Ajax, "what did he do exactly?"  
"He murdered Sammy's dad," Ajax confessed "it wasn't your uncle. Your dad did it."  
"Oh, God!" she exclaimed, bursting into tears, "that's just awful! Why did he do something like that?"

Ajax did know why, but he just replied with, "I don't know."  
"Poor Sammy. While I have been spoiled my entire life, he's missed out on a life with his dad...I feel so guilty."  
"It's not your fault. You didn't kill him" Ajax said to her. Lola shook her head while still crying.  
"But my dad did. Still, Sammy is a good guy and I want you to be happy together. I'll do whatever you need me to do."

Ajax smiled at her, "Thank you, Lola."

"It's fine. You know how I feel about bad people and – clearly, my dad is one of them."  
She let out a sad sigh, "let's just hope whatever you have planned works."  
"We need the blade" Ajax blurted out.  
Lola eyed him suspiciously, "you said you wouldn't kill him."  
"So, you know what blade I mean."  
"Ajax, of course I do. Every vampire has heard of it. The Mortal Blade."  
"What does it do?"

"It turns a vampire human and then the wound kills them. For someone who has been learning magic, you don't know what you're talking about."  
"Actually, I didn't get to learn anything" Ajax sighed, "I won't kill your dad. I'll threaten him with it, then call the Wardens of Magical Peace. They'll take him to Hexia."  
"HEXIA?!"

"Would you rather be burying him?" Ajax questioned.  
She remained silent for a couple of seconds, then nodded.  
"Fine. I'm in."  
"Don't betray me now" Ajax warned, "this is important. No matter what your dad says or does, do NOT tell him what we have planned. He'll hide the blade better next time, and he won't even tell you."

"Okay. I promise. I'm on your side."  
He gave her hands a gentle squeeze.  
"What's the plan?" she sniffled. Ajax looked around to make sure no one was nearby listening. They had been so distracted that anyone could have snuck up on them.  
"We'll need to pretend the wedding is still going ahead."  
"And then?"

"And then we'll make our move on the wedding day."

"Okay..." she said, sounding uncertain. Ajax wasn't sure telling her the plan was a good move. Still, it was the only option he had. Samuel wasn't there with him and had he not snapped he would still be entering into a sham marriage. Either way, he needed to make sure Samuel was safe. That was always his number one priority.

"I know lying to your dad isn't going to be easy," Ajax said, "you may even feel like you're betraying him but...your dad is a bad person. He needs to pay for his crimes."

"No, no!" she exclaimed, "I agree with you. I just – he's always seemed like such a good man to me. He is my daddy and – yes, I do feel guilty, but I understand the situation. Dad needs to atone for his crimes - and he can only do that in Hexia."

"Yeah. I'm glad you understand it. You're brave, Lola. I'm proud of you."  
Lola squeezed his hands, a silent thank you. She was still trying to process everything. He just hoped she wouldn't stab him in the back.  
"We should head to bed," she said, looking up at the clock hanging in the hallway, right on the wall opposite them, "unless you wanted to discuss the plan?"  
"We can do that tomorrow," Ajax said, "sleep on it."  
"Sure."

She stood up, walking towards her bedroom and stopped in the doorframe, looking back at Ajax. He was still kneeling on the floor, thinking about how mean he had been before. There was no need for him to snap at her, but he had been growing more and more frustrated with the situation. At least now he could escape it.

"I really did love you; you know?"  
He looked up into her sharp, green eyes and smiled, "I know."  
She returned the smile and just before she disappeared into her bedroom, Ajax called out; "friends?"  
She giggled in response. "Friends."

Her bedroom door closed quietly. Ajax stood up, returning to his bedroom and flopping down on the bed. He needed to get back to Samuel ASAP. He wanted to destroy the letter he sent. He wanted to see him awake, kiss him, hold him. Maybe even make love to him.

He just couldn't believe it. They had been so close. He was his - and that asshole ruined everything.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE: KISS

Samuel had been training the whole day, and his entire body was aching. He had only noticed that day that his birthday had passed – and he was eighteen. It felt strange, because turning eighteen was supposed to be this massive milestone and yet his focus had been elsewhere. His mum had no idea what had happened to him. He didn't want to tell her either - he would hate to worry her even more. His mum had already been through enough, losing her parents and her husband, and she didn't need him adding to her stress and heartache.

"I'm so tired" he told Kaiko, who had been staying in Ajax's bed. He had been assigned to guard him. He felt weird since Ajax was usually the one who took care of him like that. Samuel had asked him to move the bed back to its original space but Kaiko insisted he didn't. He said it would be easier to guard him if he were close to him, which Samuel supposed he was right.

"Me too" Kaiko replied, letting out a relieved sigh. He kicked off his shoes off, laying back on the bed and looking up at the ceiling. The pair were both glad it was bedtime. Samuel copied his stance – also looking up at the ceiling. A blissful silent filled the room as he started to drift off.  
"Sammy?" Kaiko called. He jerked awake, staring at him with tired eyes.  
"Sorry, I wasn't sure if you were asleep or not. Never mind. Goodnight" he chuckled, turning over onto his side so that his back was facing Samuel.

"What is it?" Samuel asked him, poking the middle of Kaiko's back with his index finger. He turned over immediately, looking Samuel dead in the eyes and said, "I think you're cute."  
"Oh?"  
"Yeah. Sorry. I know you're in love with that Ajax guy. Just thought it would be nice to tell you that."  
"Well...thanks?"  
Kaiko gave him a brief smile.

Samuel kind of felt obligated to say it back, so he did. "You're a good-looking guy yourself but like you said, I love Ajax."  
"He's not here right now" Kaiko said, sitting up and sitting cross-legged on the bed.  
"Hm? I know. I've noticed" Samuel said sarcastically.  
Kaiko laughed.  
"You know what I mean. I don't kiss and tell."  
"What are you saying?!" Samuel gasped.  
"I'm asking you to kiss me. Just once. I won't tell, promise."  
"What's gotten into you?!" Samuel snapped, jumping up off the bed.

"Dude. You don't really believe he's not out there snogging the face off that fiancée of this, do you?"

Samuel thought about it. Maybe he was.  
"He's broken up with you and you haven't heard a word from him. Explore a little bit."  
"Are you...into boys?" Samuel questioned shyly.  
"If you call kissing a few boys into boys then yeah, sure. But I'm also into girls."

"Ah...right" Samuel nodded, slowly sitting back down on the bed. Maybe Kaiko was right. Ajax probably was kissing Lola. Touching her. Maybe even – NO. He didn't want to think about that.  
"Do you...really think he'd do that?" Samuel questioned. Kaiko shrugged his shoulders.  
"I don't know him well enough, but if you're doubting him – maybe you already know he would."  
"He does like to kiss," Samuel mumbled, "and she is his Fiancée."

"You're overthinking way too much" Kaiko laughed, "lighten up."  
"I tend to do that..." Samuel chuckled nervously – and he did. Ajax didn't mind it at all. Maybe he had just been a burden to him all along. Maybe Lola was the one he always wanted or something like that, but he was gay. Samuel was so confused, he felt like his head might explode. Then again, if they were engaged again, they were probably doing a lot more than kissing. His heart and head hurt just thinking about it.

"You're doing it again" kaiko said, laughing harder, "ultimate cutie pie. Look, it was just a suggestion. If you have to put this much thought into it, then you don't want to."  
"Fuck it" Samuel whispered.  
"Hm?"  
"Just do it. Kiss me" he ordered. Kaiko smiled cheekily.  
"If you insist."

He crawled across the bed until he was seated right in front of Samuel. He took a hold of his face in his hands and pressed his lips to his. It immediately felt wrong. Ajax had been Samuel's first kiss and he wanted nothing more than for him to be his last, too. All the same, Samuel's eyes fluttered closed, and he kissed him back. His lips felt so soft, though, he'd give him that.

The kiss grew hotter for Kaiko, but Samuel felt nothing. Not an ounce of passion or a spark. Kaiko pushed him down onto the bed properly, climbing over him and pressed his lips to his again. Kaiko started to remove his shirt, but Samuel stopped him by taking a hold of his arm.

"No. Not that far," he panted, "I'm a virgin."  
"What?! You are?!"  
Samuel hid his face in his hands, because he was all red and embarrassed by Kaiko's reaction to that revelation.

He climbed off Samuel while simultaneously pulling his shirt back down, "Gee, Ainsley. You really are the full package?"

"Hm?" Samuel pried his hands away from his face, barely able to look at the other male.  
"It's hard to find someone who hasn't rode everything in sight these days."  
"I was saving myself for the one" was Samuel's quick reply.  
"Ajax?"  
Yeah."

Kaiko nodded, looking across the room at the window. Even though the blinds and curtains were pulled, he stared blankly at them for a few seconds. Samuel's heart was still thumping wildly. Honestly, he had become aroused by all that, but it wasn't because he liked Kaiko. He had pressed against him while they were making out, and he had been kissing him hard. It didn't feel the same as when he and Ajax had done stuff in his bedroom that night. He figured any virgin guy would become aroused by that sort of contact.

Samuel was well aware who he wanted his first time to be with, so he was feeling incredibly guilty. He would have to tell Ajax what happened when he came back, because yes, he WAS going to come back. Then he could decide if he still wanted Samuel or not. As hurt as Samuel would be if he rejected him, he would understand.

"Let's get some sleep" Samuel said.

Kaiko agreed with him by giving him a small nod, then they both hopped underneath their covers.  
"Goodnight, Kaiko" Samuel whispered, snuggling into his pillow. He imagined it was Ajax, it would help him sleep.  
"Goodnight," Kaiko whispered back, "cutie pie."  
Samuel closed his eyes, falling into a deep sleep moments later to the sound of the summer rain pelting against the window and the roof.

He wasn't sure why he even allowed him to kiss him – it didn't feel good. The cats, who were perched on the windowsill, seemed to be judging him.

Kaiko waited for Samuel to fall asleep, and then he moved closer to him. He could tell he was asleep by his breath; it was calmer and slower. He couldn't help but notice how Samuel was constantly stressed out because of Ajax, who he was beginning to think was quite a dickhead. Kaiko wasn't sure Ajax would come back. As far as he was concerned, if he really loved Samuel, he would be there with him. He was aware that he left to sort things out with Artemis Moonstone – but he could have at least checked in. A phone call – a bloody text! Instead, he sent him a break-up letter to read when he woke up. As if Samuel hadn't been through enough, he just up and did that! Who even sent letters anymore, too?!

The worst part for Kaiko was just how sweet Samuel was. He was trying so hard to get him back, because he was hopelessly in love with him. Like a fool, and yet to no avail. He was strong as hell, though. He had blasted Kaiko into the wall three times that day – and each hit felt like the wall had collapsed on top of him. He kept apologising, and Kaiko kept accepting, because he was totally gorgeous to him.

Who on earth could ever hurt such a beautiful soul? It was beyond Kaiko. He observed Samuel's sleeping frame, taking in all his features. He had quite similar features to Kaiko in that they both had freckles across their nose and cheeks. They both had long, black lashes. Strands of black hair were in his eyes, but of course he didn't notice because he was sleeping. Kaiko gently brushed them out of his face. He blinked at him a few times because seriously, he couldn't imagine hurting him if he were his – and at the same time, he could only imagine how heartbroken he was. Just from the way he looked at Ajax alone, Kaiko could see how much he adored him. He was like a little puppy in love with his master, in total bliss.

Yet, Ajax didn't return that admiration. Or maybe he did. Maybe he was just bad at showing it, who knew except him?  
Kaiko wrapped one arm around Samuel's shoulder, and the other went up under his head. He panned out beside him, snuggled up all close to him. He had always dreamed of having a love like him, and maybe with Ajax gone, he had his shot.  
'Be careful with your next move, Ajax Acton' Kaiko thought to himself, petting Salem and Beans before drifting off. 'or you'll lose him to me.'

CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX: KEY

There was no time to waste.

Artemis was moving quickly with the wedding preparation. He told Ajax at dinner – which was the first time he had seen him since the night he arrived – that the wedding would take place in three days' time.  
"Three days?!" Lola exclaimed, "but father, that's so quick!"  
"Well, you see," Artemis began, "there is some unfinished business that I need to attend to once your wedding is out of the way. It is important that you marry each other sooner rather than later. Don't you agree, Mr. Acton?"

"Yes, sir" Ajax said, agreeing since he had no choice but to agree anyway. It was awkward to eat in front of them too, so he chewed slowly on a piece of broccoli. He didn't even like Broccoli.

After dinner, he and Lola went back upstairs to play more chess. He was beginning to enjoy their games together, just because since they were now on the same page, they had good chats. They hadn't really talked about their plan, but Lola was panicking.  
"Father is going to make us get married, and Samuel will die if we don't do doing" she whispered to him as he pondered his next move.

"We need to move quickly" Ajax replied, trying to remain as calm and rational as possible, "where do you think he hides the blade?"  
She tapped her chin for a few seconds, thinking hard.  
"His library, perhaps?"

"Why there? Can't anyone just enter it?" Ajax blinked, remembering how he wrote his break-up letter in there. Lola shook her head.  
"Absolutely not. Only father is ever allowed in there. Not even I am allowed to enter."  
Suspicious. Ajax's eyes lit up.

"Then that must mean it's in there!"  
"I believe it might be" Lola said, watching him make his next move.  
"Tch, you're still as bad as ever. Checkmate" she giggled. Ajax groaned, but then they both burst out laughing.  
"Sounds like you two are having lots of fun" Artemis chuckled.

The pair almost jumped out of their skin, turning their heads quickly to look at him. Ajax couldn't help but wonder how much of their conversation he had heard, hopefully not much. Lola seemed nervous too. She was fidgeting with her hands as he stared at them. Ajax remained calm.  
"We are," he smiled, "thanks, sir."  
"Very good."

"Father?" Lola called out, just as he turned on his heel to walk away. He turned to face them once more, his blonde hair swishing.

"Ajax wants to use your library for some research. Is that okay?"  
Their first hint was that he looked hesitant.  
"What research might that be, Mr. Acton?" he asked suspiciously.  
"Just research about my powers, that's all" Ajax quickly lied. He hated her for putting him on the spot like that.

He still remained hesitant.

"I'll go with him" Lola said reassuringly, "he won't touch anything, I promise."  
"Yes, sir. I promise too" Ajax nodded.  
Artemis's face softened, like he would believe his little girl over anything in the world, and then he reached into his pocket and produced a big, golden key. He slowly handed it to Ajax, who took it gently.

"Be careful," he mumbled, "there are things in that library older than I am."  
"Of course, sir."

Lola moved ahead of Ajax, and before he could follow her, Artemis grabbed his forearm and tightly squeezed it.  
"I warn you, Mr. Acton. You will not find the cure to your problem in there. The only cure is to marry my daughter and – don't you dare try anything."  
Ah, so that's what he had been worrying about.  
"No way, sir" Ajax said lowly, "I promise I won't go looking."  
"Good lad."

He pushed Ajax away from him a little bit, and Ajax joined Lola by the library door seconds later.  
"Ready?" Ajax questioned.  
"Ready" Lola replied, "we have to do this."  
"Yes we do."  
Lola unlocked the library door and pushed the huge, double doors open. The doors were laced with gold. The house was so extra.

"You go look over there" Ajax said, snapping out of his daydream about how beautiful their home was, "I'll look over here."  
Ajax motioned to the left side of the room.

"Good idea. Splitting up is better. What do we say if Father comes in?" she asked, stepping to the right side of the room.  
"We say we're looking for a book about herbal medicine" Ajax said, starting to look for a secret passage of some sort in the shelves. It always seemed to be in the movies.

"Okay" she nodded.

Lola started to do the same. Great minds think alike. As cute as Samuel was, if he were there, he'd have kept asking what they were doing. Ajax smiled at the thought. Gosh, he missed him with all his heart. He wondered what Samuel was dreaming about. Hopefully, he was still alive to dream. He shook his head. He couldn't think like that, he had to get home to him – because being with him was home for Ajax. Nobody could ever replace him in his heart, and he hoped he felt the same way.

They searched the library for twenty minutes to no avail. The library wasn't that big, and Ajax was frustrated as they decided to finish up.

"I'm so mad!" Ajax yelled, kicking the carpet hard. Unfortunately (or fortunately?) his foot hit something hard when he kicked. He yelped, and Lola, who had been at the library door, came running. She pulled the carpet back quickly to reveal a trap door underneath. Their faces lit up with delight.  
"Oh! This is genius father!" she giggled.  
"Not as genius as he thought, apparently" Ajax hissed.  
"Thanks to your foot."  
"Heh!"

"Are you okay, by the way?" Lola asked.  
"I'm perfect. The blade must be under here."

Lola nodded, kneeling down onto the floor.  
"Let's lock the door first" Ajax said, "show me the key. Just in case he comes in. We won't be able to explain this one."  
She handed Ajax the key and he locked the door fast. After observing the area surrounding the trap door, Ajax pulled it upwards and they gazed down into the darkness below.

"Shit, it's pitch black don't there" Ajax groaned.  
"It's okay" Lola said, taking her phone out of her pocket. Artemis had confiscated Ajax's the night he got there. He knew better than to text anyone – or protest.  
"We can use my phone's flashlight."  
"Genius, Lola. Love it" Ajax said, giving her a high-five.

Lola giggled, and then Ajax went down the ladder first to make sure it was safe. Lola followed close behind him. Within seconds, Ajax felt his feet touch the ground. It wasn't a long way down.  
"I can't believe I didn't know this was here," she said, "I mean, I've lived here since birth."  
"It's strange, alright" Ajax agreed, "he's definitely hiding something valuable down here."  
"The blade" she said, pointing her light towards an altar with a black box laid upon it, "it has to be in there."

"Do you think he has any traps set?" Ajax asked. Lola laughed loudly.  
"This isn't Indiana Jones, Ajax."  
"Ah - you'd be surprised."  
"True. Let's proceed with caution."  
They tiptoed across the creaky floorboards. Artemis had obviously spent a lot of time down there, because it was even decorated. There were paintings of his ancestors on the walls – mostly mortals. Ajax found it disturbing, because their eyes were just ogling at him – judging his very existence. They looked equally as asshole-ish as he did.

Lola reached for the box with shaky hands, but Ajax stopped her.  
"If it's too much for you, let me."

She nodded without hesitation, stepping back away from Ajax and the box. He observed it first of all. It wasn't expensive looking, although it probably was, it was just old. There were crosses painted all over it, and that made sense, considering crosses repelled vampires. Although, Ajax found himself wondering how Artemis even got it down there. Nevertheless, he pressed the buttons either side of the box and the lid opened by itself.

Low and behold – inside, lay a silver blade. Small in size, but obviously of great importance.  
"Is that it?" Lola asked from afar.

Ajax gazed at the blade with hatred in his eyes. If he wanted to, he could drive the blade through Artemis's heart and kill him, but that wasn't his place. That was for Samuel to do, if he wanted to. His life was in Samuel's hands, no one else's. He had to get the blade to him somehow.  
"What do we do now?" she asked when he didn't respond.  
"I have to sneak it out of here" Ajax said, "your father isn't going to let me leave willingly. He'll assume I won't come back."  
"Then I'll go with you, but where?

"  
"To Sammy. We have to get this blade away from your father. Sapphire has probably contacted my mum, so we need to get it to them so they can give it to him."

"Alright" Lola said, "I'll ask my dad if we can go out for a walk tomorrow."  
"A walk?" Ajax laughed, "he'll know that's a lie. We're going to be gone for hours."  
"What do you suggest?"

They walked towards the ladder, with Ajax carrying the box under his arm. Lola climbed up first, and he thought of a response on the way up the ladder.  
"I think," he began, huffing as he pulled himself back up onto the library floor, "we should admit we're going to London."  
"He'll never let us go!" she exclaimed, "there's no way!"

"Then we'll have to sneak out."

"Oh, Ajax. This is dangerous!"  
An idea popped into Ajax's head. "Hand me your phone."  
That was something Artemis had forgotten to confiscate.  
"What are you going to do with it?"  
"I'm going to text my mum. She's probably really worried about me."  
Lola handed him her phone, so Ajax went into her messages and typed a quick message to his mum.  
"Mum, It's Ajax. I'm safe and alive. I'm so sorry for worrying you, but I had to do this for Sammy. Meet us in Brighton. Got the blade. Hurry. He'll catch us soon. I'm so sorry, mum."

Just in case, he deleted the message straight after and they quickly left the library once they had put everything back where it was supposed to be. Thankfully, as they exited the library, the coast was clear. Ajax had the blade in its leather sheath behind his back, and they hurried down the hallway to Ajax's bedroom and he shoved the blade into a drawer full of underwear that Jasper had provided him with.

The pair released a sigh of relief.  
"We found it," Lola grinned, breathless, "I can't believe we found it."  
"Me neither," Ajax said, "it was almost too easy."  
"Oh, don't say that!" Lola sighed, "I hope he didn't set us up."  
She bit her bottom lip.  
"Doubt it. At least, I hope not too."

Lola's phone beeped in her pocket, and she quickly whipped it out.  
"It's your mum!" she exclaimed, moving closer to him so they could both read it, "she'll be here at nine O'clock. We can sneak out; dad goes to his quarters to rest then."

"Awesome!" Ajax said, holding up his hand to her for a high-five. She did it.  
"You did good today," he told her, "I'm so proud of you."  
"Thanks, Ajax. You did amazing too. Also, your foot."  
Ajax laughed, "yeah. My foot is the real hero here."  
They both sat down on the bed.

"Samuel is a lucky guy," Lola smiled happily, "I really wish you two all the happiness in the world once this is over."

Ajax looked away from her sadly, "that's if he's still alive."  
"Your mum would have said something though, right?"  
"Maybe. She might say something tonight. Or when this is all over."  
Lola pursed her lips, "I don't believe your mum would hide anything from you. She's not like my dad."  
"Ahh Lola."

"It's true," she said sadly, "I was always a daddy's girl. I love him with all my heart and it's killing me to betray him but-"  
"You're not betraying him," Ajax told her, "this is different. He needs to be brought to justice."  
"Yeah. You're right."

Ajax nudged her shoulder gently, just because anything else would have been inappropriate. Lola glanced up at the clock above the bed and nodded.  
"It's half seven. Your mum will be here at nine. What do we do until then?"  
"How about another game of chess?" Ajax smiled.  
She returned the smile, "I knew you'd grow to love it."

CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN: SNEAK

Once the clock struck nine, Ajax and Lola snuck from the Moonstone manor. Ajax had a hoodie on (even though he was roasting) and the hood was pulled up over his head. Lola wore the same. They climbed out Lola's bedroom window, down the side of the house, where there was a trellis up the wall. There was ivy growing up the trellis, and by the time they reached the bottom, Ajax was itching all over.

"Are you alright?" Lola asked, noticing him scratching.  
"I think I'm allergic to the ivy," he sighed, "but never mind. We don't have much time."  
The blade was in Ajax's back pocket, still in its sheath. They crept across the lawn, down the driveaway away from the house, and hopped over the front gate, which was usually always closed.

Ajax helped Lola over it, lifting her up and then placing her down onto the ground in front of him.  
"Thank you."

"No problem" Ajax said, looking around to make sure no one was there. Thankfully, they had escaped without being spotted. He hoped it would be the same on the way back.  
"We have until half ten to get back," she said, "so an hour and a half. Although, let's be fast."  
"Why so?" Ajax asked.

"Aaron always brings me Camomile tea before my bedtime" she told him, "I struggle to sleep sometimes."  
"Oh," Ajax said, as they started to walk in the direction of the pier, "is there any particular reason for that?"

"Anxiety..." she responded quietly, "ever since my mom died, I've had bad panic attacks."  
Ajax didn't know vampires had those types of issues too. To him, it made her seem more human.

"But weren't you really little?" he asked.  
"Yeah," she nodded, "but I remember her a little bit."  
"I've never seen you have one. I'm sorry about that, though."  
"No worries and – I made sure that if I were feeling anxious, I would avoid you. I didn't want you thinking I was a weirdo."  
"Never," he said reassuringly, "there was no need to hide it from me. But what's done is done, I suppose."

He had felt the same sometimes when his dad first left. Then there was the panic attack at school, and when Samuel was possessed. He didn't say that, though.  
Lola nodded, and for the rest of the walk they remained silent.

Once they reached the pier, they sat nearby on a bench and talked about chess techniques for a while. Ajax had to talk about something other than Samuel, or the situation they were in. He was feeling nervous about hearing how he was. Lola's phone beeped, so she removed it from her hoodie pocket. Their hoods were down so that Macy could spot them.  
"She's here," Lola said, "down by the water waiting."

Ajax looked around, then he spotted his mum waving at them from a little bit down.

"I see her," Ajax said, feeling his eyes fill with tears. He hadn't seen her in a while, so he was feeling emotional. His vision blurred as he walked with Lola towards Macy. As they reached her, she looked angrily at him, before she burst into tears and pulled him into her for a really tight hug. Ajax returned the hug, enveloping her.  
"I was so worried about you!" Macy cried. Lola shuffled her feet, clearly unsure of what to do.  
"I'm so sorry, mum" Ajax said through tears.

Ajax pulled back slightly, looking her in the eyes, "Sammy?"  
His mother smiled, "awake."

"How?!" Ajax gasped. He was happy, but he didn't expect to hear that.  
"Well, according to him he was almost dead but his father and his God healed him. Then he heard a voice and just woke up."  
"That's amazing!" Ajax exclaimed, dumbfounded. He always knew Samuel was strong but, that took the cake.

"He misses you so much" Macy said.  
Ajax felt his eyes well with tears again, because he missed him too. More than he had ever missed anyone, even his dad when he first moved to Glasgow.

"Tell him I miss him too. Wait – I want to see him!" Ajax exclaimed. Macy shook her head, then leaned up on her tippy-toes and took a hold of his shoulders.  
"Stick to the plan."  
"The plan?" Lola asked, stepping forward. Macy eyed her suspiciously.

"Are you sure we can trust you, Lola?"

"I promised Ajax and I'll promise you, Macy. I'm on your side. My father, as much as I love and adore him, did some very bad things and he deserves to be punished for them. Samuel's dad needs justice for his death, and probably many other people too."  
"Yeah. Sammy's granddad," Macy said, "and many other witches and warlocks in England."  
Lola looked down sadly, but she didn't seem shocked. Ajax didn't think anything would shock her anymore, but she was so brave.

"We'll trust you," Macy said slowly, "but don't stab us in the back or we'll have no choice but to kill your father."  
"I understand."

"Well then," Macy said, taking a deep breath, "the plan is to go on like normal. Proceed with wedding planning, when is that by the way?"  
"Three days from now. Well, almost two" Lola sighed.  
Macy's eyes widened, "holy shit – well, that doesn't matter, we can be prepared by then. Location?"  
"An old barn" Ajax said, "right near our old school. He's hired it and he's hired someone to marry us. A vampire priest or some shit."

"Hmm" Macy nodded along, "we'll enter once the ceremony begins and he's relaxed. Then the fighting begins. We have informed the magic council of his crimes, and their guards will be waiting outside for my order."  
"Perfect" Ajax and Lola said in unison.  
"The magic council will formally charge him with the murder of Maximus and Alec Ainsley, and they'll figure out whoever else he murdered. Hen he will be sent to Hexia prison, and your uncle will be released."

"Really? Uncle Arthur had nothing to do with it?!" Lola gasped.  
"Nothing," Macy confirmed.  
"My poor uncle," Lola said, clutching at her chest."  
Not, now. It'll be okay. He will be a free man soon enough" Macy reassured her, "and maybe you can go live with him."  
"I think that'd be best" Lola agreed.

"Unfortunately, your brother used dark magic, which is forbidden. Unless he can come up with a good excuse, he will be sent to Hexia for a few years as well."  
"I think he deserves it," Lola said, "I've always been a firm believer that those who do crimes, must pay the time. That does not exclude my family members."

Ajax reached into his back pocket and removed the blade. Macy eyed it immediately, taking it from his hands and removing it from the sheath. She started to observe it closely. For a second, Ajax imagined her saying, "um...this isn't it," but she didn't say anything at all. She just kept looking at it closely, inspecting it.

"Is that it?" Lola asked before Ajax did.  
"Oh, this is it alright. Where was he hiding it, anyway?"

"In a secret underground basement under his library" Ajax said. Macy chuckled.  
"Hm. Smart."  
"Not as smart as Ajax. He's the one who found it" Lola said proudly. Ajax smiled at her, and his mum looked proud too.  
"I always knew my boy was a hero."  
"Let's not forget the real hero," Ajax said, "Sammy."  
"Of course not. He's getting enough rest and he's been practicing his magic like crazy."  
"How's he doing?" Lola asked fondly.

Macy grinned, "excellently. He's the chosen one, that's for sure."  
"He'd hate to hear you say that" Ajax laughed; his heart filled with love for Samuel.  
"Oh, he does. Although you better get home soon. He's got an admirer sniffing around," Macy laughed.

Ajax's heart felt like it stopped beating.  
Wait, who?" he blinked.  
"That Kaiko kid. He's totally smitten."  
Lola raised a brow, but Ajax couldn't talk. His mouth just kept opening and closing.

"Not Sammy, now. He doesn't seem interested at all."  
"Mum, I broke up with Sammy. It's none of my business what he does. You don't have to lie to me."

"Ajax!" Lola gasped, "what are you saying?"  
He wasn't sure what he was saying. He hated himself for it, but for a second, he thought maybe he was right to break up with him. Maybe he did like that Kaiko dude.

"Look, Ajax. That kid has always been in love with you. He's admired you since you two were toddlers. I wouldn't be surprised if he's loved you this whole time."  
Lola nodded, "mhm! Even I could tell. I could tell you loved him, too. So, stop being silly. You know you two belong together."

Ajax nodded, but he wasn't really listening to them.  
"Okay, we should head back now, anyway. Before we get caught."

"Remember the plan, okay?" Macy said, "this needs to go well."  
"Yes, Macy" Lola nodded, and followed a quiet Ajax as he walked away. Macy called him, so he turned around.

"Stop sulking. Fight for what you want and what you believe in. Sammy is the cause you've always fought for – and don't you go forgetting about it."  
She was right. Samuel is the cause he had always fought for. It had always been about him. Yet, why he did feel like he was losing him?

"Do you hear me?!" Macy yelled after him as the pair walked with Lola behind him.  
"Yes!" he yelled back to her.  
"Ajax - listen, "Lola sighed, "you kissed me the night you arrived here."  
"Yeah...I know."  
"So, you cheated on him with me."

"Is that what you call this situation?" Ajax barked, turning to face her. Looking back, he noticed his mum was already gone.

"No, sorry. That was wrong of me. I guess I'm just trying to say – you love him. He loves you. No one can come between you two unless you want that. If you leave him for good because some guy likes him, maybe it's for the best because you don't really love him in that case. Samuel is a good-looking guy, and many boys are going to like him. Same for you. You said it yourself. Currently, you two aren't together. But you were when you kissed me. So, you should be sorry. Not Samuel."

Ajax stopped dead, because he was right. He did cheat by kissing her. Even though he had to. Still, he shouldn't have. God, he felt like such a dickhead. When he would see him again, he would tell him what he did. He deserved to know, and then he could decide what to do with Ajax. Whether he stayed or went.

"You're right," Ajax said, moving again, "I'll tell him when this is all over."  
"You don't have to."  
"I will, because it's the right thing to do."

Lola smiled, "I suppose I can always trust you to do the right thing."  
"Uhuh" Ajax chuckled, "I suppose you can."

They walked the rest of the way in silence. All that was in Ajax's mind was the thought that he cheated on Samuel, and no matter how much he tried to shake it away, it lingered. Lola was humming a tune, but she stopped as soon as they reached the gate. Ajax lifted her over it, then climbed over it himself. They approached the house quickly, and darted passed the living room window where the butler sat watching TV. They both climbed back up the trellis (Ajax was itchy and red by the time they reached the top).

Thankfully, they had managed to sneak back in without being caught. Ajax felt so drained and tired, so he excused himself from her company.  
"Ajax?" Lola called just before he left the room.  
"Don't dwell on it too much. You did what you had to do at the time, and he will understand that."  
Thanks", he mumbled, leaving her alone in her bedroom and trudging down the hallway towards 'his' bedroom. Nothing about that house felt like home. He just wanted to be back with Samuel.

Laughing. Smiling. Loving.

CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT: AWKWARD

Things had been awkward between Samuel and Kaiko.

Samuel had woken up the morning before with Kaiko's arms wrapped around him. He had shoved him off and Kaiko ended up rolling off the bed and hit his head. Samuel even yelled at him. He felt kind of bad but, he shouldn't have cuddled him without his consent. Not when he knew how much Samuel loved Ajax. Samuel hadn't even wanted to kiss Kaiko, he was just mad at the thought of Ajax and Lola...doing stuff together.

Samuel told him he would be telling Ajax when he came back. Kaiko told him he wasn't scared of him. Samuel told him he should be, but that wasn't what he wanted. He had meant he would be honest with Ajax, and that he didn't like Kaiko like that. Ever since then, Kaiko had been quiet with him. Samuel didn't understand. He went from being the guy everyone thought was weird and no one fancied (apart from Ajax, but he hadn't known that at the time) to this guy who attracted someone he didn't even know. Or at least, barely.

Nevertheless, Macy had gone to see Ajax. He gave her the blade. The moment she showed it to Samuel, he wanted to stab it through Artemis's heart. Like he did to his dad. He just wanted to stab him – over and over and over until he dropped dead like he deserved. Although, it hit him then that Lola shouldn't have to see that. Since he was aware she was on their side, he wanted to make sure Artemis didn't die, while also making sure no one he loved died. Including himself.

Macy had the blade in her bedroom, hidden. She said she didn't want him to be overcome with anger and go find him himself. Samuel reminded her that he had no way of getting to Brighton by himself.

"Touché, but you're still not getting it!" was her response.  
Samuel had to agree with her. There was nothing that would stop him from getting Artemis if he could, except Lola of course. He liked her, she was a nice girl, but all the same – her dad was a douchebag.

Samuel was practicing his spells. Sapphire had taught him a few, while Poseidon had taught him others. Sapphire mostly taught him how to levitate, and stun a person. She said they were not there to kill him, they were just there to stun him, and if worse came to worse – threaten him with the blade. Then the magic guard would come in and take him to the magic council deep in London. He would be tried for the murder of his father, his grandfather, and many others.

Speaking of which, his grandmother had been staying with them too. She said she wanted part of the action. Macy had also warned her not to kill Artemis Moonstone for any reason. She reluctantly agreed. Samuel couldn't say he blamed her for wanting to off the bastard – because so many warlocks and witches did.

Meanwhile, Poseidon taught him an instant death spell. Samuel told him he wasn't allowed to kill him but he said he could try to kill Samuel, so in that case he would have to kill him. Samuel disagreed, but he told him it anyway even though he protested A LOT.  
"If you end up needing it, yell out THANATOS and wave your wand towards your target. Close your eyes and imagine a black light surrounding him."  
"Thanatos?" Samuel had blinked.

"Yes," Poseidon said, walking around Samuel in a circle, "that will call forth the Greek God of death himself, and he will take him for you."  
"But Artemis is immortal!" Samuel protested.  
"So?" Poseidon laughed, "it would take more than that to escape Thanatos."

Samuel was still confused but it, but he decided not to ask him. He wasn't interested in killing Artemis (well, he was. But he wasn't going to). He feared if he knew this information, he would use it without meaning to. Then poor Lola would be left without a dad (even though she would be anyways, there's no visitors to Hexia according to Sapphire).

Kaiko was sitting in the corner of the room, sulking with him. Samuel was trying to practice his stun spell on a poor frog Sapphire found in her pond. He just hoped he didn't kill it, thankfully he hadn't killed anything so far.  
"Kaiko?" he called. Kaiko looked up at him, not blinking.  
"I'm sorry I yelled at you" he said, "I didn't want to hurt your feelings or anything."  
"What's so special about him?"

"Ajax?"

Samuel didn't have to think about it before speaking.  
"He's the love of my life."  
Kaiko sulked harder, earning a laugh from Samuel. He eyed Samuel angrily, silently telling him it wasn't funny.  
"Hey, don't sulk. We have a big fight tomorrow. Don't you want to be prepared?"  
"I do" he nodded.  
"Then stand up and help me. I am your chosen one, do as I command!" Samuel exclaimed, jokingly pointing his wand in his direction, "or else perish by my wand!"  
"What are you going to do with it?" he laughed, "stun me?"  
"YES."

Kaiko stood up, removing his wand from his pocket and stunned the frog for him. Samuel gasped.  
"Hey, that was my frog!"  
"Sorry, mate," Kaiko smiled, "it was either you or him."  
"Rather him than me to be honest."  
Kaiko approached him, and pulled him into a hug, "I guess I'm just not used to getting what I want."

Samuel hugged him back, because he was a friend. Nothing more. He hoped Ajax would see it that way once he told him they had kissed. Anyway, it was only kissing. Nothing else. It wasn't like what Ajax had done to him that night. His face heated up as he remembered his touch that night.  
'Shit!' he thought to himself, "BRAIN, STOP!"

Kaiko pulled back away from him.  
"We've waited a long time for you to bring back the light," Kaiko said, "don't let us down."  
"Gee, that's a load of pressure."

"Sorry," he smiled, "but it's true. There is a lot of pressure on you. Still, no one else can take him down except you."  
"I suppose you're right. Especially now that I have the blade."  
Mhm! Let's practice some more. Tomorrow's a big day."  
"A huge day" Samuel shivered.

He still wasn't sure he could do it. He wasn't sure he could even stun Artemis. He was a vampire, not a frog. He did ask Sapphire could he practice on her, but she quickly declined.  
"No way!" she snapped, "I'm not risking that!"  
"Why not?" he had asked.

"Because, Samuel Blaze, you could kill me!"  
"And what if I accidentally kill Artemis Moonstone?"  
"Then good riddance to him!"

She was a difficult woman, but he loved that about her.

An hour passed and they were still practicing on the poor frog. Levitating him one second, stunning him the next, then levitating him again. Samuel felt stupid and unprepared. It was like they thought it would come to him when the time was right (aka, when Artemis Moonstone was charging at him) but what if it didn't? What if he got killed? Then the darkness would completely take over. Every dark creature in the world would take over the magic AND mortal worlds, and everyone would become slaves or they would die. It was all on his shoulders, and he felt like he could collapse at any moment.

The only thing keeping him sane was the thought of being with Ajax again. He needed to see him again, even if it was only one more time. Even though he wasn't his boyfriend anymore (because the asshole broke up with him), he felt like he was. Because that was the way it was always meant to be. Samuel and Ajax – forever. Not that shit. He just never expected all of this to happen to him.  
"Ready?" he heard Kaiko call, snapping him from his daze.  
"Yes. Ready for what?" Samuel asked.  
"To do some meditation," Kaiko laughed, "weren't you listening?"  
"No."

"You said yes" Kaiko laughed again.  
Samuel shook his head and laughed, "I have a lot on my mind. I want to talk to my dad about it."

"Okay, then. Let's go meditate. I'll meditate in my room; you meditate in yours like usual. Yeah?"  
"Yeah okay."  
They headed upstairs to their bedroom and as soon as Samuel closed the door behind him, he felt woozy. All the practicing and lack of sleep was starting to make him dizzy. Hopefully, he would sleep that night, though it was doubtful. He needed a good rest but – there was so much on his mind that it would be impossible. There were also the nerves.

He lay down on his bed and closed his eyes. He didn't need the music anymore, because Poseidon and his dad pulled him into it. Within seconds, he was on the beach and his dad was waving him over. He ran towards his dad, and they hugged like usual.  
"How are you feeling son?" he asked.

"Scared," Samuel admitted, "tomorrow's the big day."  
Maximus sat down on the rock they always shared, and Samuel sat beside him. He wrapped an arm around Samuel's shoulder.  
"I know, son, but you are strong enough to do this."

"I only know two spells."  
"Three" a voice from behind them reminded him.  
"Poseidon!" Samuel smiled, turning his head to look at him.  
"If you have to use the spell Poseidon taught you – then do it."  
"But Lola..."

"Lola knows what's right and wrong," Poseidon interrupted, "she will forgive you."

"I hope so" Samuel sighed, "anyway, we're not in that position yet. If I have to use it, I will. Until then, I won't even think about it."  
Maximus nodded along with Samuel, agreeing with him, "very good, Sammy. You've learnt a lot these past few days."  
Poseidon huffed, "he's as stubborn as you are."  
Samuel laughed, "sorry. It's just, I don't want to kill him unless I absolutely have to."

"We understand" Maximus reassured him.  
Samuel looked out into the water, "when I die, can I come here?"  
"Of course," Maximus nodded, "this is our place."  
Samuel smiled, feeling better. "Good. Can I bring Ajax?"

"If you want to," Maximus laughed, "well, of course you do."  
"What was your relationship like with my mum?" Samuel asked out of curiosity. Maximus looked disheartened.

Samuel sighed, "not good?"  
"Well..." Maximus started, shifting a little, "I loved your mum a lot. I don't want you to be upset with her but, she wasn't faithful to me."  
She wasn't?!" Samuel gasped. That didn't sound like his mum, but he let him continue because he didn't think he would lie about that.  
"Your mum was very confused about who she was. That's all I'll say. The rest is for her to tell you. It's not my place."

"Okay. I'll ask her when this is all over."  
"Good lad."

Samuel stood up. "I better be going."  
Maximus stood with him, drawing a cross on Samuel's forehead with his finger, "I bless you in the name of the father – and of the son – and of the holy spirit, amen."  
"That's offensive!" Poseidon shouted.  
Maximus closed his eyes and laughed, ignoring the God. Samuel hugged him tightly.  
"Thanks for everything, dad."

"Come back to see me soon. Don't leave it too long, and don't join me just yet."  
"I will and I won't" Samuel smiled, turning to walk back, which is how he generally woke up.  
"I love you!" Maximus called after him.  
"I love you too, dad!"

Samuel's eyes snapped open and he sat upright in the bed. He rubbed at his tired eyes, and just as he started to wake up a knock came on the door. It was Sapphire, holding a plate of chicken curry from a local Chinese restaurant.

"Oh!" she gasped, "I didn't realise you were meditating."  
"I was finished" he reassured her as she handed him the plate of curry, "thanks."  
She looked at him sadly.  
Is there something wrong?" he asked her.  
"No. Not at all. I'm just worried."  
"Me too," he sighed, pushing his food around the plate with his fork.

Sapphire sat beside him on the bed.  
"It doesn't feel like long ago that your father was...murdered," she said, struggling to say the word 'murdered.'  
"Yeah..."

"It breaks my heart every day. I think it breaks the hearts of most witches and warlocks. Except those in the darkness. Your father he – he was a great man. He loved you and your mum very much."  
"I know, he told me so himself," Samuel smiled, "and he still does."  
"Ah yes. I forgot you talk with him these days."

She took a hold of his free hand.  
"I think you should eat that all up. There won't be time for breakfast in the morning. You'll need a full stomach to fight Moonstone."

Samuel looked down at his food, but his stomach turned at the thought of eating. Still, he started to eat up and ignored his knotting stomach. He had to push through it. For everyone's sake.

Sapphire stood up and left the room. Seconds later, Kaiko came in with his food and just quietly sat on the bed, munching away. Samuel ate slowly, but he still managed to clear his plate.  
"That was delicious" Kaiko said, taking Samuel's plate and placing it under his.  
"I agree, but I couldn't really enjoy it. I'm so nervous."

Kaiko placed the plates on Samuel's bedside locker.  
"Me too, if I'm being completely honest with you. You'll be fine, though. I have faith in you."  
"You do?"  
"Everyone does, Samuel. I promise you – you'll be able to take him down. We'll all help you, you're not alone in this, and that includes your boyfriend and that Lola girl. Speaking of which, is she hot?"

Samuel blinked at him for a second, then he chuckled lowly, "I suppose so. She's pretty, I think. Very elegant."  
"Do you think I will like her?"  
"Sure. She's beautiful."  
Kaiko smiled, and Samuel punched his shoulder, "there's no time for flirting, though. Only time for taking down evil masterminds."  
"But afterwards?"  
"KAIKO!" Samuel laughed, earning a laugh from him, too.

"Get some rest," Kaiko told him once the laughing died down, "we all need it. Want me to stay with you? I won't cuddle you this time. I promise."  
"Sure. I think I could use the company anyway."  
"Okay, let me go get changed."

As soon as Kaiko left, Samuel got into his pyjama bottoms and just put on an old t-shirt. He snuggled with a less fragile Salem, who was starting to grow big and strong, all night.

Tomorrow was the big day – there was no turning back now.

CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE: WEDDING

Ajax woke up to Artemis Moonstone looming over him, calling his name over and over. His eyes snapped open when he heard him, and he sat up, almost bumping heads with him.  
"You're finally awake," he mumbled angrily, "I have been calling you for five minutes."  
"I'm sorry, sir" Ajax said sheepishly. He was still trying to appear on his side. It was a lot harder than it sounds. Just knowing that they were going to get him and he would be punished was enough for him, though.

"Where's Lola?" Ajax questioned, swinging his legs over the side of the bed.  
"Your bride – is getting ready since an hour ago," he muttered, "I would like for you to do the same."

"Oh,  
Artemis motioned towards a suit, which was laid out on the bottom of the bed. He almost knocked it off when he pushed the covers back, so it was sort of hanging there.  
"For you."  
"Thank you," Ajax said, approaching the suit on the bed and draping it over his arm.  
"Would you like me to leave?" he questioned.  
"If you don't mind."

"Alright," he nodded, moving towards the door, "I suppose I figured that since your family are not present at the wedding, you would need some company."  
Was that compassion he heard in his voice? Hardly.  
Ajax shook his head, "don't worry, I'm fine."  
"Hm. Very well."  
Artemis left the room and Ajax got showered in the en-suite bathroom. He then got dressed in his suit, and he looked at himself in the full-length mirror in the bedroom.  
"Shit," Ajax mumbled, I never imagined this would happen."

He knew he wasn't really getting married but – he just wanted to dress like that for Samuel only someday. It felt sad.

He tied his bowtie, gelled back his hair once it dried and then he was ready for his 'wedding day'. He left the room to see Artemis was still standing outside his door, but he was dressed up to the nines – cane with a gold handle and all.  
"You look nice" Ajax told him. He meant it, because he did.  
"Thank you, Mr. Acton. You look rather dashing yourself."  
Ajax smiled. He was being nice for once.

He looked away from Ajax, not returning the smile. Never mind.  
"The next time you see my daughter will be as she glides down the aisle towards you. Are you prepared?"  
"I am."  
"Vows ready?"  
Ajax gulped, "yes."  
"May I hear them?"  
"Why ruin the surprise?" Ajax chuckled nervously. Artemis nodded.  
"True."

Ajax was relieved. Lola did ask him to write vows just in case Samuel didn't arrive on time but, he would come up with something on the spot in that case. It wouldn't be too hard.  
"Let's go" he heard a voice behind him say, and when he turned around, he seen Jasper. He was looking rather sharp too, but very unhappy and bored. He was wearing this extra purple suit, but it looked good against his ultra-pale skin.

"Is the car ready?" Artemis asked, and Jasper informed him that it was. His driver was waiting outside for them to take them to the venue. Ajax still couldn't believe he was getting married in a barn. A fucking barn. He didn't know much about weddings but – couldn't he have picked somewhere rich people got married?

They got outside and Artemis told his butler to take good care of the house. Aaron closed the door, then the trio trotted down the driveway a little bit towards the parked car. Artemis yelled at his driver all the way there about having to walk to the car. Ajax rolled his eyes in the backseat, and Jasper joined the argument by agreeing with his father. How spoilt. The driver, a fellow vamp, kept apologising n a scared tone. It seemed even other dark creatures feared him. Ajax wasn't surprised.

As they pulled up outside the barn, Ajax noticed it was actually really beautifully decorated. The seating area was outside, perfect for summer, and the staff he had hired (caterers, etc) were already working away. There were string lights all over the place, lanterns – just beautiful, expensive ornaments.

The first person he noticed standing outside was someone he did NOT expect to be there. He wondered if she was part of the plan, but he doubted it. It was Vivian – Samuel's mum. She was standing outside the barn, wearing a navy blue, under the knee dress that was swaying in the breeze. She had her hair tied up in a messy bun, and a glass of champagne in her left hand.

Ajax went to approach her as soon as he got out of the car, but Artemis spotted her too. He raised a curious brow.

"Lola must have invited her" Ajax said, "excuse me."  
He approached her, and her eyes widened as soon as she seen him.  
"There's the groom!" she exclaimed not-so-proudly.  
"What are you doing here?" he asked her lowly, scared.

"I was asked to come," she said, "by my son and your mother."  
"You do know what's going on her, don't you?" he asked quietly. Vivian looked behind him, then nodded.

"Of course."  
"Good. Just be careful. If a fight breaks out, Moonstone will go for you first. Make sure you get out of there – fast."  
"I know. Thanks kiddo" she said, stroking my cheek with her free hand, "you be careful, too. Sammy needs you."  
"And I need him."

Vivian grinned.  
"Enjoy the wedding!" Ajax exclaimed to her once he spotted Artemis approaching them.

"Well, well. If it isn't Mrs. Ainsley" he beamed. It was the first time Ajax had been him smile and it was TERRIFYING.  
"Mr. Moonstone. It's a pleasure. I received an invitation to this beautiful wedding from your lovely daughter. Well done, it's a beautiful turnout."

Why thank you," Artemis said, "I am very proud of her and this young man," he took a gentle hold of Ajax's arm, "for finally realising their love for one another is, well, eternal."  
Vivian grinned. It wasn't the reaction he was expecting because his face fell.

"Oh, tell me about it. Hopefully, my Sammy will meet someone just like your little girl someday."  
Ajax tried to hold in a snicker – and thankfully, he succeeded.  
"Oh, yes. Indeed."

"Well, I hope to see you after the ceremony" Vivian said, looking at her watch, "shouldn't it be starting soon?"

"It will be starting shortly. Everyone needs to take their seats inside, first. And this young gentleman must take his position as well."  
Ajax nodded, going to move away, but Artemis followed him. He positioned Ajax by the love heart shaped wedding arch, which had red and white roses tangled through it. Ajax took a deep breath as Artemis fixed his bowtie.

"You will be alright" he told him. Ajax wished he could say the same for him – NOT.  
"Thank you, sir" Ajax told him. Artemis moved away and Ajax was growing more and more anxious.  
Vivian was seated down the back, probably so she could escape easily. She was texting someone – hopefully Samuel or Macy with information.

Ajax was starting to sweat profusely. The collar of his shirt felt like it was choking him, so he kept pulling at it and shuffling his feet. (What was it with him and moving his feet/legs when he was nervous?!)

Just as he went to take another deep breath (because he was struggling to breathe), music started to play. He looked down the aisle of seats to see a harpist and a piano player had come in and were playing the wedding march softly. Ajax was so anxious he hadn't even spotted them entering.

Artemis was seated in the front row (he didn't even walk Lola down the aisle). All Ajax could think of when the doors opened wide was if it was a safe enough distance for Vivian. His eyes fell on Lola – who looked tremendous by the way. Her dress was tight-fitted to her slim body, with lace sleeves. She had a gorgeous boquet of fuck knows flowers – and her hair was curled and falling around her shoulders. She was wearing a veil, which was pulled over her face. She smiled as she approached Ajax, and he smiled back. They were both keeping up the act.

A few sniffles could be heard from the crowd. To Ajax's utter surprise, Jasper was walking her down the aisle. Perhaps because Artemis wanted to keep an eye on Ajax to make sure he didn't end up running.  
"You look stunning" he whispered to her as Jasper handed her over to him. Lola took his hand and gave it a squeeze.  
"Thank you, you look so handsome."  
Ajax chuckled.

Lola gave him a "this is really happening" look and he turned it when they turned away from her father. Ajax kept a hold of her hand, comforting her because she had started to cry. Ajax knew it wasn't because she was happy (because hell, they weren't really getting married), it was because she was about to lose two of the most important men in her life. He was so, so proud of her. He really couldn't express how much. She had the strength of a lion, that was for sure. Such bravery in one person.

The 'priest' (?) started talking, and Ajax wasn't paying attention to a word he was saying, because Lola was sobbing beside him. He continued to talk over her sobs. They turned to face each other at his request, and Ajax took both of her hands and squeezed them. He was trying to let her know that it was okay, that he was there for her.

He kept imagining her giving up. He kept envisioning her stopping the wedding and yelling to her father, "IT'S A SET-UP, SAMUEL AINSLEY IS COMING ANY MINUTE WITH THE BLADE, FATHER." But she didn't. She just kept crying. He was watching her proudly. A part of Ajax felt such immense guilt, and then he remembered how awful he was. How he butchered Samuel's dad and granddad and many others like their lives meant nothing.

"Have you prepared your vows?" the priest said.  
"Um..." Ajax was bewildered because he figured Samuel would have burst in by then. Lola was looking at him with frightened eyes because she too was confused.  
"Yes," Lola said softly through tears, "of course."  
"You first, Mr. Acton" he told Ajax. Ajax nodded, looking at the small crowd of people nervously, before he continued. As his eyes fell on Vivian, he seen her smile and then she stood up. He was there, Ajax just knew it.

"Lola," he began, hoping nobody looked back as she flipped out the door, "from the-the moment I saw you at school, um, I-I knew-"  
The double doors to the barn swung open. Light flashed through, and everyone turned around immediately. Standing right in the doorway, wand at the read – was no other than Samuel Blaze Ainsley – the love of his life. Seeing him, Artemis Moonstone stood up and grumbled furiously. Ajax grinned.

Samuel took a few steps until he was inside, and the doors slammed behind him. He had his smirk on his face – and "I've got you now" sort of smirk.  
He looked Ajax deeply in the eyes, and he looked back, mesmerised by him. He was wearing a simple pair of jeans and a black and white striped shirt, and converse. Not very efficient for a fight, but that wasn't the point.

"I. OBJECT."

CHAPTER THIRTY: MAD

Samuel was running on no sleep, and tonnes of coffee. He had stayed up all night practicing while everyone else slept. Macy yelled at him for not sleeping, but he couldn't. Not while knowing people could die. He practiced stabbing things with his blade, like pillows (much to Sapphire's discontent) and he considered practicing the Thanatos spell but he was too scared to summon him in case he took him (even though it wasn't his time, or was it?)

Samuel's eyes flickered from Ajax (who he was so happy to see, by the way. It just wasn't the time to show it. He longed to kiss those gorgeous lips of his) to Artemis Moonstone. His target. His enemy. Artemis was fuming with anger, eyes almost bulging from his head.  
"Sup" Samuel smirked at him.  
"Mr. Ainsley" he said, brow twitching, taking a few steps down the aisle towards him, "you're late. The wedding has already begun."

"My invitation must have gotten lost in the mail," Samuel shrugged, "or am I just unwanted?"

Everyone was staring at him, but Samuel didn't care. He was full of adrenaline and coffee, staring the man who murdered his father right in the face.  
"Unwanted" Artemis spoke angrily, "you're just like your father, you are. Interfering rat."  
"My father was a hero!" Samuel yelled.  
"HE WAS IN MY WAY!" Artemis bellowed. His voice quietened as he added, "just like you are right now."

"Ooh, what are you going to do about it?" Samuel asked, jeering him, "kill me?"  
"Father you've gone far enough!" Lola shouted.  
"QUIET, LOLA!" he screamed at her, and she immediately cowered into herself.  
"Did you really think I'd let you have it...?" he grumbled.  
"Have what?"  
"The mortal blade!" Artemis yelled, "the one you have? Is fake!"

Samuel's heart leaped.

He looked at Ajax and he looked just as shocked as he did, as did Lola.  
"I knew my daughter would betray me. She's too soft, like her damn mother!" he snarled in Lola's direction, "and when she snuck out to give the fake blade to Macy Acton, that damn, witch! I knew I could never trust her again."

"Father!" Lola cried, "just give yourself up!"

He ignored her, dangling the real blade from his finger, with a ring at the bottom of it. He had it clipped to his belt the whole time.  
"I believe this is what you wanted."  
"Just give in" Samuel said, "I don't want to fight."  
"Why not? Because you're a weakling? Like daddy?"  
Samuel snarled, "SHUT THE FUCK UP!"

"Someone is sensitive today," Artemis chuckled darkly, "pick a side, daughter. Will you fight with your brother and father, or will you fight with the losing side?"  
Samuel never thought about fighting Jasper. The plan was not going well.

Lola took Ajax's hand and they both happily walked down the aisle towards Samuel, past her father. Ajax stood one side of him, and Lola stood the other.  
"You're a glorified nobody like your father! You will never be able to defeat me, just like he couldn't!" Artemis snarled.

Samuel chuckled.  
"If I were you, Artemis, I wouldn't doubt an Ainsley twice."  
"Huh?!"  
"The only reason you defeated my father was because you murdered him in an unfair fight. This time, we're fighting warlock to warlock. No blades. Just wands. Are you ready to lose?"

"Samuel!" Lola gasped.  
"I know what I'm doing" he whispered to her, "don't worry."  
Ajax took Samuel's hand and squeezed it, causing Samuel to look at him.  
"When this is all over," he said softly, "you're going to get it good."  
Samuel giggled, "you too."

"Are we going to stand around talking, or are you going to fight me?" Artemis asked, removing his suit jacket. He threw it to Jasper, who caught it quickly.

Samuel lifted his wand. This was going to be difficult, but he had to get the blade from him. He gave Ajax a look, and he immediately knew what he meant when Samuel motioned his head to his belt. He smiled, giving Samuel a thumbs up.  
Artemis had his wand ready.  
"Three, two-"

Before Artemis could finish counting down to the battle, Samuel yelled, "LEVITATE!"  
His feet were off the ground within seconds. Jasper tried to dart towards Samuel, but Lola stood in front of Samuel, pushing him back with all her force.  
"QUICK, SAMUEL!" she yelled, "HE'S SO STRONG."  
Ajax tried to push passed the guests, who were scrambling to get out of the barn.

He picked up Artemis's wand, which was on the floor, and yelled "OPEN!" at his belt. The wand exploded in Ajax's hand. He let out a loud yelp, and Samuel lost focus on the spell. Artemis came tumbling to the ground beside Ajax. Ajax pinned him to the floor, but he was struggling because his hand was burnt.

Lola also couldn't fight her brother anymore. Samuel ducked under him to avoid his punch, then kicked him in the back. Samuel had never been in a physical fight before, so he felt very proud when he went stumbling out the open barn doors, and Lola locked him out.  
"He'll get back in eventually," she said. Samuel could hear him thumping against the door, and it was smashing.  
"No, he won't" Samuel smiled.

"JASPER MOONSTONE, YOU ARE UNDER ARREST FOR THE ILLEGAL USE OF BLACK MAGIC-" they heard from outside.  
"He's surrounded."  
Lola high-fived him, "Good job, Samuel."  
"You too, Lola."

"Guys!" Ajax yelled through grunts, "please, help!"

He was attempting to pin Artemis down still, and Artemis was weakly fighting back against him. Samuel approached them, ripping the blade from his belt. He was whimpering in fear.  
"Stay back," Samuel told Lola. Ajax stepped away and picked Artemis up on one side. Samuel called Kaiko over, and he held him up by the other side. He took the blade in his hands, and he pressed it to his chest, right by his still heart, but he didn't puncture it.

"PLEASE, NO!" Artemis screamed.

"This is the view you had when you murdered my dad" Samuel said to him with pure hatred dripping from his voice, "this is exactly what you saw. Fear. Anger. Sadness. You had the choice to stop – but you didn't."  
"Samuel Blaze!" Sapphire shouted from the doorway. She was trying to make sure he didn't kill him, but he had no intention of doing so.

"My dad was a loving man. He loved me and my mum. You ripped him from us. We had to get used to not having him around."

"I'M SORRY," he screamed again, "PLEASE."  
Samuel threw the blade to the side of the room, "you're scum – and scum rot in Hexia."  
Artemis's eyes widened when he spotted the guards coming for him, "NO!"  
He managed to break free of their grasp, but they caught him again.  
"MR. AINSLEY, PLEASE!" he screamed as they dragged him away, "HAVE MERCY. NOT HEXIA. PLEASE. KILL ME. HAVE MERCY!"

Lola was crying hard into her hands. Samuel approached her and pulling her into him, blocking her ears with his hands. No child should have to hear that in his opinion – ever. When he was gone, dragged away, Samuel continued to rock her for a while until her cousins came in and took her away.

They won.

Samuel finally turned to face Ajax. Macy was observing his hand, and he was hissing in pain.  
"You'll be fine," Samuel heard her say, "it'll scar, but you'll be fine."  
When Ajax noticed Samuel was looking at him, he opened his arms wide. Samuel ran into them, taking in his scent. It felt like forever since he had been there, just – him holding him.  
"Sammy," Ajax said through tears, "I missed you so much."  
"I missed you too" Samuel cried.

"Please forgive me" Ajax sniffled.  
"Of course."

They both pulled apart to look into each other's eyes. Ajax leaned in to kiss him, but Samuel pulled back slightly.  
"I kissed Kaiko."  
Ajax looked confused for a second, then he processed it and started to laugh. Samuel quirked a brow.  
"I kissed Lola."

"So, it's fine?" Samuel blinked. Ajax kissed his cheek.  
"So long as you promise that you'll only kiss me from now on."  
"I promise. Do you?"  
"I promise."

Samuel pulled him down to his height and kissed him hard and passionately. He seemed surprised by how keen Samuel was being, but he had missed him so much that he didn't mind making the first move.

Ajax looked around the venue, and he wasn't sure if he was just caught up in the moment. If it was the wedding arch, or Samuel's smell, or how hot he was when he fought – but what he said next, shocked them both to the very core.

"Marry me."  
"Huh?" Samuel blinked.  
"Marry me. Right here. Right now."  
Samuel laughed, "are you mad?"  
Ajax laughed too, "are you not? We've waited a long time for this. Let's just do it. Let's be mad."  
Ajax took Samuel's hands in his, and as Samuel gazed into his dark eyes, he didn't need to think about his reply.  
"Okay. Yes. Let's get married."

CHAPTER THIRTY-ONE: HUSBAND

They couldn't believe they were getting married. Turned out that Sapphire was a marriage officiant, which they found quite strange for her. Still, they were doing it. In the place where Ajax and Lola's fake wedding took place. It was a pretty barn, and at least there was no goats.

To Samuel's utter surprise, his mum took her wedding band off as they waited outside. Samuel felt super nervous but happy at the same time. He couldn't believe it was getting married in a pair of jeans and a scruffy t-shirt, though. Then again, Sapphire was marrying them in army trousers and a white tank top so...

"Take this" Vivian said, placing the ring in his palm.  
"But mum!"  
"No buts, Samuel Blaze" she said sternly, "your fathers would be too big on you and you can't step out of this barn with your new husband with no ring."  
"My new husband..." Samuel repeated, "husband."

Ajax was about to become his husband. He smiled widely, what an incredible feeling. He hoped everyone in the world could experience those heart flutters at least once in their lives.

"Ready?" Vivian questioned. Samuel nodded, taking a deep, deep breath.  
She took a few seconds to stroke his cheeks and look into his face, "I am so proud of you, Sammy. You have accomplished so much in life. I-I don't deserve that ring."  
"For cheating on dad?" he asked softly. Vivian hesitated before nodding.

"It's okay, mum. When you don't know who you are, you do silly things. He forgives you."

She smiled weakly, like she wasn't sure she believed him or not, but Samuel knew it was true. She linked arms with him, and Macy started to play a soft tune on the piano (she started leaning when she was eight). It was so light and airy, not a traditional wedding march but it was perfect for him and Ajax. As soon as Kaiko opened the doors, Samuel spotted Ajax under the arch, looking at him. In that moment, every, single memory he had with him flashed before his eyes and he got reminded why he agreed to marry Ajax.

From beating up the bullies for him – to attempting to learn magic just because he was – to kissing him lovingly, holding him tightly no matter Samuel's mood – to not caring that Samuel overthinks literally everything. Ajax was the one. In every, single lifetime – and if he wasn't, by some weird chance, then he didn't want to ever live again. He was happy with this being his final lifetime. He believed in soulmates, and twin flames, and destiny. Ajax was where it began – and where it ended. Ajax Andrew Acton. His soulmate, His lover. His friend.

Samuel couldn't stop grinning from ear to ear when he reached him. Ajax was crying a tiny bit, and Samuel couldn't help but wonder what was going through his head, little knowing that Ajax was thinking about how lucky he was too. Their hearts were glowing with happiness as Sapphire started to speak. Macy, Kaiko and Vivian took their seats up front.  
"Dearly beloved. We are gathered here today to join Ajax Andrew Acton, and Samuel Blaze Ainsley in holy matrimony."

She continued to speak, but neither of them was listening. They were just – looking into each other's eyes. Taking each other in.  
"And now for the vows. Ajax, you go first."  
Their mothers were sniffling. Ajax spoke without hesitation.  
"Sammy, I love you with all my heart. Not a day goes by that I don't think about how much I adore you. Being away from you was torture, but you're here now. I won't leave your side ever again, for any reason" he stopped to take a deep breath to stop his tears, "and I hope you'll stay by mine. You may not have been my first kiss, but you were my first love, and my last everything."

Samuel wiped a tear away from his eye.

"That's beautiful, Ajax" Sapphire smiled, "now, Samuel Blaze. Your vows."  
Just like Ajax, Samuel didn't need to think of what to say.  
"You've always been there for me, Ajax. Which was even more important to me, as someone who is madly in love with you. I always have been, and I always will be. I will never leave your side, either, because that's where we belong. Together. You are my first thought in the morning, and my last thought at night. I hate being away from you. So, let's continue to love one another forever. Because I'm lost without you. You're my only friend – and my soulmate."

Ajax sniffled, "soulmates. That I definitely agree with."  
Sapphire was smiling through tears, and Samuel even caught Kaiko wiping at his eyes.  
"Take the rings" Sapphire said, "and repeat after me."  
Ajax took the ring from Samuel, then took his hand with his shaky one. He repeated after Sapphire.  
"I, Ajax Andrew Acton, take you, Samuel Blaze Ainsley – to be my husband. In sickness and in health. To love and to hold until death do part us."

He slid the ring onto Samuel's finger, and it fit perfectly.

Samuel took the ring from him, which he had in his pocket (the one Artemis bought him, might as well make use of it) and he repeated the words back to him.  
"I, Samuel Blaze Ainsley, take you, Ajax Andrew Acton – to be my husband. In sickness and in health. To love and to hold until death do part us."

He slid the ring onto Ajax's finger.

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but I now pronounce you husband and husband" Sapphire grinned, "you may now kiss your groom!"  
Ajax swooped Samuel into his arms, bending him backwards and kissed him passionately. Samuel was laughing against his lips because he was afraid he would drop him, while trying to kiss him. It was the most unromantic scene, but their hearts were swollen twenty times with happiness.

Ajax pulled Samuel into him for a hug, and the other four were clapping and cheering.

"Oh, shit!" Macy suddenly yelled at Ajax, "your dad isn't here!"  
"Ah, hey. We'll throw a bigger wedding later and invite him" Ajax shrugged.  
"Good idea" Vivian smiled, "we'll invite more people."

Samuel wouldn't agree only Chaska deserved to see his son get married. He couldn't help but wonder if his dad was there in spirit. He sure hoped he was. Then he remembered he could visit him anytime, and he felt happy again.

"Now," Macy said, standing up and fixing her jeans, "who feels like some Maccy D's?"  
"Yes!" everyone exclaimed.  
"I'm starving!" Samuel groaned.

McDonalds after your wedding wasn't exactly ideal to some, but Samuel and Ajax couldn't be happier with it. The newly married couple left hand in hand, as husband and husband. As they walked out of the barn, Samuel couldn't help but think;  
'I wonder what I should get?'

CHAPTER THIRTY-TWO: HOME

It had been four years since Ajax and Samuel said, "I do."

Well, almost. Their four-year anniversary was the next day. Samuel was working in Clearview at his dad's old job, while also helping his nan in her store. A lot more warlocks and witches were flooding in to learn magic now that Samuel saved everyone and brought back the light. All dark creatures had gone into hiding, but for how long?

Samuel decided against going to university. It wasn't the right fit for him. Although, he and Ajax had been discussing getting rid of their magic. Samuel would still be able to work in Clearview and keep his job, because he was the chosen one, after all, and he had an ancient bloodline.

He was trained up, and he was finally a magical lawyer, who worked cases related to issues within the magic world. It was a great job and paid him well. As for Ajax, he went to university in London and graduated with a first in Business. He worked in the mortal world, which he loved, and had set up a business selling fandom, anime, and band merch in a few stores across England (since he really enjoyed those things himself. Samuel was very proud of him).

They bought their own home in London. It was a small, two-bedroom house but it was cosy, and it was theirs. The spare room was currently being renovated, though, because they were about to make a baby. Yeah, you did read that right. They were MAKING a baby. They had all the ingredients required (which they had acquired with regular trips around the magical countryside beyond Clearview and the Black mountains. They honeymooned in the magical world, visiting everywhere they could).

It was time for them to give up magic for good. It was time to move away from that (apart from Samuel's job, of course. He loved that way too much to give up). He and Ajax had everything prepared – including a cauldron that Sapphire provided them with.  
"You ready?" Ajax asked nervously, knowing they were about to become parents. Samuel nodded.  
"So ready."

The ingredients were mostly forbidden, but since Samuel had the magic ability to perform the spell, he was allowed by the magic council to do so. They said it was a "wedding present" from them and also a "thank you" present for saving the world. They weren't even sure it would work, but Ajax just fired everything into the cauldron of cold water. They stepped back and stared as the water fizzed for a few minutes, and then nothing.

"Did we kill it?" Ajax asked, since there was no crying. He was too scared to look, so Samuel peered into the cauldron – and right before his very eyes lay a new-born baby – very much alive and moving. Samuel felt different, as did Ajax. They were both drained and panting heavily. Samuel reached into the cold water, feeling the icy touch against his skin, and then picked the baby up into his arms. It was a beautiful baby boy, with bright blue eyes blinking up at Samuel.

"Holy-!" Ajax gasped, "it worked!"  
"It worked," Samuel repeated, "fetch the towel."  
Ajax grabbed the nearby towel and threw it to Samuel, who wrapped the shivering baby inside it and held him close. When Samuel finally calmed down and looked at him, he noticed how similar he looked to both of them.  
"Ajax," he said with tear-filled eyes, "he's got my eyes."

Their emotions were running high. Ajax stepped towards them, standing behind Samuel, and peered over his shoulder at the baby boy in his arms.  
"And an in-between skin tone" Ajax whispered, stroking the baby's little cheeks, "and your lips."  
Samuel leaned his head back against Ajax's shoulder blade, and he leaned his head on top of Samuel's. They just stared at him for a really long time, admiring him. In that moment, Ajax realised the baby in his love's arms was the baby he always daydreamed about. He had seen the future.

"Is your magic gone?" Samuel asked after ages.  
"I feel it's gone" he nodded, "you?"  
"Yeah but-" Samuel started, then paused, blinking a few times while looking into their son's face.  
"What is it?"  
"I can still – Ajax!" he gasped, "it's coming from him! We gave him both of our powers!"  
Ajax didn't know what to say, so he stood there opening and closing his mouth for a few seconds.

"You mean – he's got them all?!"

"Yes...everything."  
"So, he's...the strongest Warlock in England?"  
"By a long shot. Probably the world" Samuel said quietly, "I have a bad feeling about this."  
"It'll be okay. Let's just soak him up. Yeah?"

Samuel wanted to believe him, but he wasn't sure he did.  
"What do we name him?" Ajax asked, changing the subject, "I know. How about Maximus?"  
Samuel was astounded, "are you sure?"  
"Yes. Of course."

"Maximus....Maximus Ainsley-Acton."  
Now it was Ajax's turn to be astounded.  
"You have to get in there somewhere" Samuel smiled. He was just confused because Samuel had kept his surnames as Ainsley after their marriage.

Ajax rested his head on Samuel's again, and they just continued to gaze into their son's eyes. He was beautiful, magical, perfect in every way. They would raise him well, with or without magic was unknown. Though, a creeping thought in Samuel's mind as Salem curled up on his foot was telling him – this was far from over.

### THE END.

PREVIEW OF BOOK TWO.

WARLOCK: ESCAPE FROM HEXIA

Being the son of the 'chosen one' was a pain in the ass. Being the son of his protector, was also a pain in the ass. Being the son of two men – MEGA PAIN IN THE ASS. Maximus Ainsley-Acton had learned to defend himself against the hate, but in his mind, he shouldn't have had to do that. Twenty years had passed since his dad, Samuel-Blaze Ainsley, had defeated Artemis Moonstone and saved the world. To Maximus, it was a load of shit. He hated practicing magic, but his dads demanded that he study it every day. How boring.

His dad, Ajax, had told him, "your life could be in danger someday. You're the most powerful Warlock in England. Probably the world. They'll come for you eventually."  
"Ugh," was all Maximus could say.  
Ajax was the harsher parent, making Samuel the more lenient one. So, when Ajax was home, Maximus knew he had to do what he was told.

Little did the sixteen-year-old know, his dad couldn't have been more correct. Deep in the black mountains was the prison for magical creatures – Hexia, and Artemis Moonstone had the perfect plan to escape. At first, his intention was to kill Samuel Blaze. After all, he was the one who had put him in the prison. However, a corrupt prison guard had recently delivered to him some interesting news.

"Samuel Blaze Ainsley no longer uses magic," the guard told him as he leant against the cell door, "neither does Ajax Acton. However,"  
The guard trailed off, almost sounding guilty.  
"Spit it out, would you?!" a frantic Artemis scolded, clinging to the bars desperately. He had become a shell of the man he once was. They heard footsteps approaching, so the guard stood up straight.  
"He has a son. Maximus Ainsley-Acton. Sixteen years old."

The guard nodded to him, and then walked away, pretending to be patrolling as the head prison guard approached his cell. Artemis was still clinging to the bars, a wide, evil smile plastered across his face.

"What are you grinning for?!" the head guard yelled, using his cane to smack Artemis's knuckles. Artemis hissed, stumbling backwards into the darkness of his cell. He waited until the head guard walked away tutting to reply, knowing he couldn't be heard.  
"Because..." he chuckled darkly, "there's a son. A perfect target. A son! He has a son!"  
He danced around his cell, laughing and cheering, "a son! A son! How perfect!"

He gazed out the barred window, at the mountains surrounding him, smirking "and no parent can bare losing their son...."

MORE COMING SOON.
