I thought of the ring my mother tried to discard, the one that became a slender circlet when I learned I was full-blooded Fae.The way it had always turned up, time and time again. I knew now it had a much deeper purpose than I’d ever imagined.
“We’ve always been with you,” she said. “We’re just speaking louder now.”
“The lullaby,” I said. “That was you all. A sign from you, even before I knew any of this existed.”
“In a way, yes.”
“I’m grateful for it, even if I didn’t understand it.” I paused. “But how can I possibly unlock the ability to channel the power of ancestors? You’re all so wonderful and strong, and I’m brand new to everything. How could I possibly handle the culmination of your powers?”
“You were built for it. But first you must pass three tests.”
“Let me guess—earth, water, air.”
“Very good. You’ll be called when the time is right.”
“Any advice on how to pass these tests?”
“Believe in yourself. Use what you have. We can’t assist during the challenges, but we will be with you watching, rooting for you.”
“What happens if and when I complete the challenges?”
“That’s the first step to opening a channel between you and us. You will be able to use our powers like they’re your own, but full mastery won’t be immediate. Completing the challenges is but the first step to enhancing the bond between us, and with practice and time, you’ll be able to access the full well of your ancestors’ magic at will.”
“By channeling your powers—you mean, for example, when I could suddenly read the ancient Fae texts out of the blue under the full moon? I know that wasn’t my magic. That was coming from you.”
“Similar, yes.”
“Are the challenges dangerous?”
“What isn’t dangerous when the stakes are so high?” The voice paused. “I’m sorry, but it’s time to send you back, Alessia. A Fae Queen shouldn’t linger too long in the spirit world.”
“Could it kill me?”
“In time, no one wants to leave,” the voice admitted. “There is much comfort and warmth to look forward to here.”
I nodded. The Glade did feel like the most peaceful place on earth. At the same time, I longed for the warmth of the sunlit Isle, the touch of Silas’s hands against my skin, Lily’s exuberant hugs when she saw me.
“My time isn’t finished,” I said. “I understand.”
“It isn’t. You must return and face your trials. We’ll meet again once the channel is open.”
When I opened my eyes, I was seated in the dusty circle of stones where I’d meditated for days. Seer Goddard watched me, silent and intent.
“I’m back,” I told him. I raised my hands, studied them, and marveled, “I’m alive.”
Seer Goddard let out a long breath, relief softening his stern face. Perhaps he did care slightly about me. Or maybe he simply didn’t want a dead Fae Queen on his watch. I preferred to believe the former.
“Were you successful in your journey?”
“Yes,” I said. “I visited The Glade and met my sisters.” I paused. “They told me that three challenges await me. I’ll need to pass them before I can truly begin to access the powers of my Fae ancestors. So, I guess that means we should continue my training.”
Seer Goddard’s brows lifted. It took a lot to surprise this man.
But instead of answering, he simply nodded, then sat cross-legged before me. Joining me on the ground for the first time since we’d begun our training.
“Select a rock,” he said. “Let’s begin.”
