Hey guys! I'm sorry those of you who have been reading this had to wait so long for the next chapter. I have been hecka busy with school and all. I hope you enjoy!473Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzTwruS9xpc
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Jack started walking back home from the fountain with a smile on his face. He’d had such a great time and he had a friend. He turned the corner so he was at the first row of small houses. Then something hit him hard in the back. He winced and turned around. He saw that a rock had hit him. “So now you turn up.” a familiar voice said. “Did you really have to throw a rock at me, Luke?” Jack asked. “I just felt like it.” Luke replied, stepping into view. “Just leave me alone.” Jack retorted. He didn’t want the day to be ruined. Luke walked up to him. “Lost you and your girlfriend when you ran up that hill.” Luke said, ignoring him.
“She isn’t my girlfriend. She’s just my friend.” Jack said. “That brings you to a total of one? Your sister doesn’t count.” Luke taunted. “You’re just mad because she isn’t ignoring me or making fun of me like everyone else.” Jack retorted. “No one should like you in any way. You are a disease and a freak. I can’t believe you got Selected.” Luke said, clearly annoyed. Jack looked down. “Don’t you think I already know that?” he said quietly. Luke was surprised. He thought that Jack would have retaliated, not agreed.
“You think you’re a freak?” Luke asked. Jack looked up at him. “I don’t know what I am. I know it isn’t good. It’s not like many people tell me differently anyway.” he replied. Luke didn’t say anything for a long time. “It’s good you know it.” he said finally. He didn’t want Jack to see him give any mercy. “What do you want from me?” Jack asked. “Was the wind on the hill you?” Luke asked after a moment. “Possibly.” Jack said. “I just want to make it clear to you that just because you got Selected doesn’t make you worth anything.” Luke said.
“So if it means I'm worth nothing is that the same for you?” Jack retorted. Luke grabbed the front of Jack’s shirt and pulled him so they were mere inches apart. “I am worth so much more than you and you know it.” Luke sneered. Jack didn’t say anything. Luke shoved him backwards, releasing his shirt as he did. Jack fell on the ground and Luke only grinned. “And don’t think you will ever be worth anything.” he said, kicking Jack hard in the side.
Jack winced and started to get to his feet again, but Luke kicked his feet out from under him. Jack fell on his back and got the wind knocked out of him. “Nice chat, Jack.” Luke said, snickering as he left the street. Jack gasped for breath then slowly got to his feet. He heard Luke’s words over and over again as he finished walking home. He entered the house and saw Emma waiting for him. She noticed something was wrong. She rushed forward and hugged him tightly.
“What happened?” she asked. “Luke.” Jack replied in a quiet voice. “I’m sorry. Let’s talk about what you did with your friend.” Emma said, changing the subject. “Okay.” Jack said, as Emma released him. They walked into Jack’s room and sat on his bed. His parents had thankfully not noticed he had returned home. They must be in their room. “So how’d it go? What did you two do?” Emma asked, sounding very enthusiastic. “It was fun and we went to the hill with the tree on top. We climbed it and hung out at the top.” Jack said, trying not to laugh at their enthusiasm.
“How did the climbing go? I mean not many people in this town climb.” Emma said. “Um it was fine.” Jack replied, smiling at the memory. “You’re smiling. What happened?” Emma asked. “She was nervous about it so I helped her climb up. She slipped once too and I caught her.” Jack said. “Sounds like you had a good time.” Emma said. “Yeah it’s just something happened and I don’t know why.” Jack said, turning serious.
Emma waited for him to explain. “I used my magic and I got tired. It also felt like my whole body was on fire and I don’t know why.” Jack said. Emma was quiet. “I don’t know either. Do you want to try to use magic right now and see if it happens? If it does then we might have to wonder why it’s starting now.” Emma told him. “I don’t know. It hurt.” Jack said, hesitantly. “It’s up to you, Jack but we should figure it out.” Emma said. “Okay.” Jack said. He concentrated and a swirling gust of wind appeared in the middle of the room. It lasted for a moment before Jack fell off the bed groaning in pain.
“Jack!” Emma exclaimed, getting on her knees beside him. His eyes were squeezed shut as pain exploded through his body. It lasted for a few more moments before it ended. He looked at Emma, his eyes watering. “What happened?” she asked worriedly. “M-My whole body burned just like last time.” Jack said shakily. “You need to tell someone at the Academy when you go there tomorrow.” Emma said, helping him to his feet. She eased him onto his bed. “No. I don’t need to cause problems from the start.” Jack said.
“Jack, you could get hurt.” Emma argued. “I’ll be fine and if it happens while I’m at the Academy then I can get an answer.” Jack replied. Emma obviously disagreed with him but didn’t argue further. “So are you nervous for tomorrow?” she asked after a minute. “Yeah, even if I go there I’m still different. I just hope I’ll feel like I belong there.” Jack replied, fidgeting with his hands as he thought about it. “You may be different but that doesn’t mean you don’t belong anywhere.” Emma said. “Doesn’t it?” Jack muttered. “Well I disagree with you and apparently so does Alicia.” Emma retorted.
Jack smiled slightly. He was paler than usual and he looked kind of tired. “You should rest, Jack. You look tired.” Emma told him. “I’m fine. Actually let’s go get Peter and do something together. I’m leaving tomorrow and I’m going to miss the both of you. Even if I come back I’ll still be gone a while.” Jack said, getting to his feet. “Just don’t hurt yourself please.” Emma replied, standing too. “I won’t. You think Peter’s awake?” Jack whispered as they walked down the hall. “What kind of question is that? You know he never goes to sleep when he’s supposed to.” Emma replied in a hushed tone. Jack laughed quietly. “True.” he said as he opened the door to Peter’s room.
“Death to the evil villain!” Jack heard Peter whisper excitedly. He stayed in the doorway and moved over a bit so Emma could look into the room too. Peter was jumping on his bed holding a stick in each hand. He banged them against each other then dropped one. Then he started making gurgling noises then flopped down on his bed pretending to be dead. “Nice Peter.” Emma said, trying to suppress a laugh. “Hey, what are you guys doing in here?” Peter asked, sitting up.
“We’re going to do something fun. Any ideas?” Jack whispered as he and Emma entered the room. “Let’s go to the river.” Peter replied enthusiastically. “Alright but we have to be quiet, Peter. We don’t want mom and dad to catch us.” Emma told him. Peter nodded, excitement on his face. They were about to exit the room when Peter grabbed Jack’s arm. “Could I have a piggy back ride?” he asked innocently. Jack sighed. “Fine.” he said, crouching down a little so Peter could climb on. Now with Peter on his back and Emma beside him they walked into the hallway. They held their breath every time a board creaked beneath their feet.
There was no noise from their parent’s bedroom. They made it to the front door hearts racing from nerves. Emma opened the door and slipped outside quickly as it creaked loudly. Jack did the same though it was a bit trickier to move quickly with Peter on his back. “What is going on?” they heard their mother exclaim. “Run.” Peter said in Jack’s ear. Jack nodded and looked at Emma. She nodded in understanding and they ran. They ran the opposite direction of the fountain towards that edge of the town. Unlike the other edge there were no hills, just forest. The whole town was bordered by forest however the only place different was the hills.
They ran until they reached the forest line. The moon shone overhead providing a dim silver glow. However looking into the forest there was hardly any light shining through the thick roof of trees. Jack thought about trying to use magic to make more light but quickly decided against it. Thankfully he knew the way to the river by heart and it wasn’t far. “Think we’ll get in trouble?” Peter asked with a grin. “Probably.” Emma replied leading them into the trees. An owl hooted in the distance and Peter’s arms tightened around Jack’s neck. “Just an owl Peter.” Jack muttered. Peter’s arms loosened again.
Jack took the lead now. The trees loomed overhead and the shadows moved over the ground as the trees swayed in the wind. Then Jack heard the rush of water up ahead. He smiled as he jogged forward. Peter laughed as he jumped over a fallen tree trunk. “Jack! Slow down!” Emma exclaimed. “Never!” Jack called back. Peter laughed again. After a second he slowed down and waited for Emma to catch up. When she did they were both out of breath but Jack was nearly recovered. “We’re almost there right?” Emma asked when she finally caught her breath. “Yeah, it’s just up ahead.” Jack replied.
“Let’s goooooo.” Peter whined. Jack chuckled as he motioned for Emma to follow. She smiled and walked beside him. Soon the river came into view. The river sparkled as a streak of moonlight hit the water. Peter nearly knocked Jack over as he clambered off his back. “Come and get me!” he yelled running to the water’s edge. “You’re on.” Emma said, running after him. Jack laughed and ran toward the water too. He outran Emma and tackled Peter so they both fell into the river.
They both came up coughing while Emma laughed. “What are you laughing about?” Jack challenged, jumping up and grabbing her arm. She pulled against him. Jack pushed off the side and pulled Emma into the river. She came up spluttering. “You are so dead.” she said, splashing Jack in the face. Before he could react Peter jumped on him from behind. After a moment he lost his balance and fell face first into the water.
He came up coughing up water. Once he caught his breath again he realized both Emma and Peter were trying to suppress their laughter. “That…..was not fair.” he breathed. “Come on, Jack. That was funny.” Emma said, unable to contain her laughter anymore. “Don’t you agree, Peter?” she asked for a moment. There was no answer Jack turned around and Peter was gone. “Peter!” he shouted. Again there was no answer. He could feel Emma’s worry along with his own. “Jack, look!” Emma exclaimed. She was pointing down the river.
He could barely see it but it was there. There was a streak of red in the water. It was blood. “Oh no. Peter! Peter where are you?!” Jack called moving down the river. There was still no answer. He heard Emma following him. He moved quickly and he saw more streaks of blood looking more black in the dim glow. Then he saw him. He heard Emma gasp in shock behind him. Peter was floating thankfully face up but unconscious. Jack rushed over to him and picked him up.
Jack looked him over and saw that he’d hit his head. It was bleeding and it was pretty deep. “Emma get out of the river. I’m going to follow you out with Peter.” Jack said quickly. Emma appeared to be crying as she made her way to the river’s edge and climbed out. Jack followed quickly and Emma helped him get Peter out of the river. “Jack, we have to get him home now.” Emma said, her voice breaking. “He’s losing too much blood. I-I have to try magic.” Jack replied, laying Peter’s down in the grass gently. “Jack you know what will happen.” Emma warned. “We don’t have a choice.” Jack retorted.
Emma nodded once though she looked worried for him. Jack put a hand on Peter’s head and took a deep breath. He closed his eyes in concentration and the wound began to heal. “It’s working.” Emma breathed. The gash started to close. A small moan came from Jack. After a few more moments the wound on Peter’s head was gone. Then Jack fell backwards, a hand on the side of his head. He groaned in pain. Emma looked at him. “Jack? Jack are you alright?” she asked him, pulling his hand away from his head.
She gasped in shock. The gash that had been on Peter’s head was now on Jack’s. Suddenly he cried out. Emma guessed his body was burning again. She covered the gash with her hand to try to stop the bleeding. Then she heard Peter mumble something. She looked over and saw he was sitting up. His eyes widened when he saw Jack. “What happened?” he asked, moving over so he was on his knees beside Jack. “H-He healed you but it was like a t-trade.” Emma stuttered as tears fell down her cheeks.
Then she froze. She felt the blood from Jack’s wound stop flowing. She moved her hand and now the gash was just a shallow cut. Jack’s eyes flared open and he sat up. He was breathing hard and he put his head in his hands. “Jack, I’m so glad you’re okay.” Emma murmured, putting her arms around him. Then she felt Jack’s shoulders shaking. She let go of him. “Jack?” she whispered. He looked up. He was still shaking and she could see the pain in his eyes. “I-It hurt more this time. When the gash appeared on my head…..the burning was the most intense there.” Jack said, his voice full of exhaustion.
“Wait, Emma, you said Jack healed me. How’d he do that?” Peter asked. “I used my magic, Peter.” Jack whispered. Peter hugged him. “Thank you.” Peter said, quietly. Jack hugged him back. “We need to go back home.” Emma said, urgently. “I-I don’t think I can.” Jack replied, releasing Peter. He checked his head just to be sure Peter was okay. It didn’t even look like anything had happened. “Okay we’ll give you some time to recover.” Emma said.
“Peter what happened to you?” Jack asked as he laid down again. “I was laughing and then I slipped. All I remember after that was hitting my head on something.” Peter told them. “We shouldn’t have come here at night.” Emma mumbled. Jack nodded slightly. He finally caught his breath but he was still exhausted. “Jack are you seriously alright?” Emma asked, still very worried. “I’ll be fine. I’m just tired. I don’t understand why all this is happening with my magic now. It’s never affected me like this.” Jack replied, sitting up. Before Emma could respond Peter cut in. “What do you mean by ‘affected you?’” he asked. Jack looked at Emma. She could see how tired he was.
“Now he gets tired and it...hurts him.” Emma said, quietly. Peter looked at Jack. “It hurts you?” he asked. Jack nodded once. “You hurt yourself just to help me.” Peter said. “Yes I did and I'd do it again.” Jack replied with a small smile. Peter smiled back at him. “Even though I’m still insanely worried this is adorable.” Emma said. Jack sighed and Peter stuck his tongue out at her. Emma suppressed a smile and looked at Jack. “You think you’ll be okay to walk now?” she asked him. “I think so.” Jack responded, pushing himself to his feet.
Emma stood up too and moved over next to Jack just in case his legs gave out. “I’m okay.” Jack said as he started walking. “You’re sure?” Emma pressed. “Yes, Emma. Just a little tired.” Jack replied. However that was an understatement. He was more than a little tired but he kept walking. Peter walked on one side of him and Emma on the other. It was really dark now and they could barely see the ground in front of them.
Jack paused at the trunk of a large tree and leaned against it for a moment as he looked around. All he could see was black with a few streaks of silver from the moon. “And before you ask Emma, I’m fine.” Jack said, as he straightened up again. Emma gave him a look but didn’t say anything. Jack led them through the series of trunks, roots, and bushes until they saw the edge of the forest.
“We made it.” Peter said, happily as they left the forest. Jack stopped again when they had reached their street. “Look.” he said pointing to their house. There was a light coming from the kitchen window. “They waited up for us.” Emma whispered. She knew Jack would get blamed for it and would receive the punishment. Jack knew it too which was why he hesitated. “Come on we’re going home aren’t we?” Peter asked, taking a few steps toward the house then turning to look back at them.
“We are.” Jack said, grimly. He walked forward following Peter with Emma following him. Peter didn’t know that Jack was going to get in trouble. Emma and Jack tended to keep him in the dark about these sorts of things. They didn’t want him to be upset. He was worry free for now. He was only nine. They reached the porch and Jack heard Emma suck in a breath as Peter opened the door. The three of them walked in and since Emma was last she closed the door behind them.
“Get in here now.” a voice demanded. They all recognized it as their father’s and it was coming from the kitchen. They all walked toward the kitchen, their feet dragging behind them. They heard the scraping of a chair as it slid back. When they entered they saw their father standing. His face was red and a vein looked like it was about to burst out of his forehead. “So you sneak out and it looks like you went swimming of all things.” he said, his voice hard. Jack knew they couldn’t deny that. Their clothes were still damp and so was Emma’s long hair.
Their mother sat in the chair across from all of them. She looked angry as well and it took a lot to get their mother angry. Their father turned on Jack glaring at him with absolute disgust. Jack looked back at him. “I’m assuming this was your idea you curse. Now bringing your brother and sister down with you.” he accused. Jack said nothing, his exhaustion was beginning to show and so was his fear. He knew what was going to happen.
“Peter and Emma go to your rooms now.” their mother said, her voice was quiet which meant she was definitely angry. Peter left with no hesitation. Whenever their mother got mad, he did what he was told. Emma however stayed put. “I’m not going anywhere.” she said. “Go to your room young lady. We expected more from you.” their father snapped. Jack looked at Emma and nodded slightly. “No.” she argued. “Fine then stand over there.” their father said, stabbing a finger toward the opposite side of the room. This time Emma listened and walked over to the other side of the room. Then she looked at Jack. She was really worried now.
Their father stalked over to Jack so they were only a few inches apart. Jack stumbled back but he only took two steps before he was against the wall. His father looked him over and as he did he looked like he was about to explode. “You are exhausted. You used magic again didn’t you.” his father said, his voice shaking with anger. Jack didn’t say anything but he looked away.
His father smacked him across the face. “Answer me.” he demanded. “I-I did.” Jack whispered. Emma glared at their father’s back. “Stop!” she shouted as he raised his hand to strike Jack again. That didn’t stop him. Jack bit his lip to keep from making any sound. His father pushed him against the wall and held him there. “I am t-” he started but Emma interrupted him. “He used it to help Peter!” she shouted. “He… what?” their mother asked. “He only used his magic so he could help Peter. He even did it despite the effects it has on him.” Emma replied.
Their father looked back to Jack. “What did you do?” he snapped. Jack was quiet for a minute. “Peter fell and he had a gash on his head. I used my magic but I don’t know how so I ended up making a trade.” he said finally. “What do you mean by ‘a trade?” his father demanded. His mother got up and walked over to them. “Instead of the gash being on Peter’s head, it was on mine. I didn’t know it would do that but my magic healed me mostly.” Jack explained quickly.
His father said nothing but grabbed a handful of Jack’s hair and forced him to look to the side. He saw the shallow cut on the side of Jack’s head. He released him and turned to Jack’s mother. “He has a cut on his head.” he muttered. He seemed quite upset he couldn’t punish Jack for using his magic. “You went through all of that just to help your brother?” his mother asked him. Jack nodded. Before his mother could say anything else his father grabbed the front of his shirt. “You are the reason he was in danger in the first place. You will be punished.” he warned. Emma rushed over. “No. Tomorrow he’s leaving, father. Don’t hurt him.” she said.
Their father seemed to be debating this in his mind. Then after a few moments he released Jack. “Just go to your room.” he said. Jack didn’t hesitate. He immediately left the kitchen and went into his bedroom. He heard the murmur of voices coming from the kitchen but he couldn’t tell what they were saying. He flopped down on his bed and looked up at the ceiling. “You’re lucky you know. He was pretty angry when all of you left.” a voice said. Jack sat up quickly and looked at the mirror. His reflection was there looking at him.
“I know. I honestly thought I imagined you talking to me last time.” Jack replied. “You didn’t. I’m here for a reason. There’s a question you will ask me in the future. I will be here to answer it.” his reflection told him. “Who are you?” Jack asked. “You will find out in time. Now no more questions. Emma is coming. Tell her nothing.” his reflection urged. Jack blinked and his reflection was gone. A few seconds later Emma entered the room. “You alright?” she asked, sitting beside him. “Yeah, I’ll be fine.” Jack murmured. “There’s something on your mind. I noticed it earlier today.” Emma said. “I just want to belong somewhere or at least not be looked at as a curse.” Jack replied, looking out his small window.
Emma was quiet for a moment. “Jack, you aren’t a curse. I don’t know how many times I have to tell you. You are special and you’re here for a reason. You’re going to go to that Academy and you will pass whatever test they give you. I believe in you. I always have and I always will.” she said, finally. Jack smiled slightly. “Thanks, Emma.” he said. She smiled back at him. “Wait I’ve been meaning to ask you. Who was that guy you were talking to the other day?” she asked.
“You’ve got to be more specific.” Jack replied. “Um the day Luke came over here.” Emma said after a short pause. “Oh yeah. He’s a servant for Luke’s family I guess.” Jack told her. “What’s his name? I’ve never seen him around.” Emma said. “Abe. I haven’t seen him before either.” Jack responded. Emma was quiet. “What is it?” Jack asked her. “Mother has mentioned every servant that works there at least once but I don’t think she’s ever mentioned an Abe.” Emma replied.
“That’s weird….” Jack trailed off. “Wait, he could be a newer servant or something. Maybe mother just hasn’t seen him while working.” he added after a few moments. “Maybe anyway I’m going to miss you, Jack.” Emma said, hugging him. Jack hugged her back. “I’m going to miss you too. I don’t know what I’m going to do without you.” he replied. “Do you have to go?” a small voice asked before Emma could respond. Jack released Emma and looked at the doorway.
Peter was standing there and he looked really sad. “Come here.” Jack said, opening his arms. Peter ran into them and hugged Jack tightly. “I don’t want you to go.” he said, quietly. “Hey, it’s okay. I promise I’ll visit the both of you. I’ll sneak out if I have to.” Jack promised. He felt Peter’s shoulders shaking. “Aw Peter don’t cry.” Jack said, rubbing his back. “Yeah, it’ll all be okay. Jack’s just going to be gone for a little while but he’ll come back.” Emma assured Peter.
“But it won’t be the same without you here.” Peter whispered. Jack pushed Peter away a little bit so he could look at his face. He brushed the tears from his face. “Well that means that while i’m gone you have to do your chores and help Emma. You gotta take care of her for me okay?” he said. Emma smiled a little bit with tears in her own eyes. “Okay. Promise me something though.” Peter replied, sniffling. “Whatever you want.” Jack promised. “That you’ll be happier there.” Peter murmured.
Jack and Emma were both surprised that came out of sweet childish ten year old Peter. Peter just looked at him with innocent but serious eyes. “I promise but I’ll never be happier than I am when I’m with you and Emma.” Jack replied. Peter smiled at him. Emma hugged them both, a few tears falling. “Love you both forever.” she said. “Love you both forever.” Jack agreed. “Forever.” Peter said. They hugged each other tighter.
“Such a strong bond between all of you.” their mother said from the doorway. The three siblings released each other. Emma and Peter looked at their mother but Jack just glared at the ground. “Emma. Peter, will you two go to your rooms so I can have a word with Jack?” their mother asked. Emma gave Jack a light hug and stood up. “See you bright and early tomorrow.” she said. Emma was right he’d have to be up early tomorrow because they were to meet with the Headmaster just a few hours past dawn.
She walked by their mother and told her something that Jack didn’t hear then left the room going to her own. “Come say goodnight to me after?” Peter asked Jack. “Of course.” Jack replied, ruffling Peter’s hair as he stood up. Peter left the room with a smile on his face. Now Jack looked at his mother. “What?” he asked, his tone not very kind. She walked over and lowered herself to her knees in front of him. “I’m so sorry, Jack. I know I’ve failed you.” she said, quietly.
Jack looked into her eyes and he saw the sincerity in her words. “I’m your mother. It broke my heart when you said that I didn’t love you. I understand why you said it but it isn’t true. I love you so much and I want you to know that.” she continued. “But you think I’m dangerous.” Jack whispered. “I shouldn’t have said it. Today you helped your little brother even though it hurt you. Every time you did magic it was because you were angry or upset and you have every right to be both.” his mother told him.
Jack’s eyes shone. She did love him and she was sorry. He couldn’t think of anything to say in reply. “Just when you go get the life you deserve. Pass whatever test lies in front of you so you can get away from here.” his mother said. She held his face in her hands. “Thank you, mother. I love you too.” Jack replied with a small smile. She gave him a small smile in return. “I’m guessing father still hates me though.” Jack said, sadly. “Don’t believe what he says.” his mother countered.
Jack nodded once. His mother looked into his eyes. “I love these icy blue eyes of yours. You’re different and I should’ve supported you instead of planting doubt in you even after all you do for me despite everything. I know that you deal with Luke just so I won’t lose my job.” she told him. “How’d you know that?” asked Jack. “It isn’t a large town. I heard a rumor and it kept popping up now you’ve only confirmed it’s true.” his mother told him. “I just hate that you work for his family and he holds losing your job over my head.” Jack replied.
“He shouldn’t do that to you. I’ve also been meaning to ask you where were you the other night?” she asked. “Didn’t father tell you the truth?” asked Jack. “He said that he saw you go to Luke’s house. I didn’t think that was true but that’s all he would tell me.” she said. Jack just shook his head and looked down. His mother put a finger under his chin and gently lifted his head so he met her gaze. “What happened?” she asked. “H-He was beating me on one of the hills. Luke actually saved me.” whispered Jack. “Tomorrow you will escape all of this. You won’t have to worry about your father anymore.” his mother promised. “Yeah, I guess so but I have to pass whatever the test is.” Jack replied. “You can do it. Now go say goodnight to your brother and go to bed. You have to get up early tomorrow.” she said, standing up.
“Okay.” Jack responded, getting up too. Then he remembered what Emma said as his mother was about to leave the room. “Wait, do you know a servant named Abe?” he asked, quickly. His mother looked at him confused. “Um no I don’t. Must be someone new.” she told him. “Probably.” Jack murmured. “Goodnight,” his mother said, she left the room still looking confused. Jack thought for a moment. Abe couldn’t have been new. It seemed like Luke and his parents had known him for a while and he acted like he’d been there for a long time as well.
He shook his head. Abe was probably just new. He just might be one of those people that make you feel like you’ve known them forever. He pushed the thought to the back of his mind as he made his way to Peter’s room. When he pushed the door open, Peter was sitting in his bed. He was just waiting for him. Jack saw his little brother’s face light up as he entered the room. “You took foreverrrrr.” he said, jumping up. Jack smiled at him. “You are supposed to be tired. Especially after everything that went on earlier.” he said. In truth Jack was tired himself.
His magic didn’t heal his wounds completely as he’d found out. He knew he still had a mark on his head but Peter was fine and that’s all that really mattered. “I’m not tired. I wanted to ask you something about what happened though.” Peter replied. “What?” asked Jack as he rushed forward and picked Peter up. He dropped him on his bed. Peter laughed then turned serious. Jack sat on the edge of the bed somewhat startled by Peter’s sudden change of attitude.
“Did you know?” Peter asked. “Know what? You have to be more specific.” Jack replied. “That using your magic would hurt you? And that it would be a trade?” Peter mumbled after a moment. Jack was quiet as he chose his words. “Yes, I knew it would hurt. I didn’t know that it would be a trade. My magic has consequences, Peter.” he said, finally. “W-Was it worth it? Hurting yourself that bad?” Peter asked, his voice quivered. “Absolutely. I healed, I’m fine now. More importantly so are you.” Jack replied, embracing his brother. “At the school will they make the hurt go away?” Peter murmured. “It’ll be okay.” Jack assured him. In his mind he hoped so because the pain was excruciating.
“Now you need to go to sleep.” Jack told him. “But I don’t wanna.” Peter whined. “Why not?” Jack asked. “Because then when I wake up, you’ll be gone faster.” Peter replied, in a small voice. Jack sighed as he continued to hug Peter. “I won’t be gone forever, and I’ll still be with you.” he said. “No you won’t. You’ll be somewhere else.” Peter muttered. “Physically yes, but I’ll be with you in a different way. I’ll be in your heart and you’ll be in mine.” Jack said. “Stay with me till I fall asleep?” Peter asked, hopefully. “Sure.” Jack replied. Peter laid down on one side of the small bed and Jack sat leaning against the wall on the other side. “Night, Jack.” Peter said, his eyes already closing.
“Night and I told you that you were tired.” Jack replied with a smile. “Am not.” Peter murmured, already half asleep. Jack laughed quietly. He felt his own exhaustion but he pushed it off. After a few minutes he knew Peter was asleep. He rose silently and walked down the short creaky hallway to his room. Just before he entered he thought he heard something behind him. He turned but there was nothing there. He pushed open the door to his room and then something pushed him in hard. He stumbled forward and barely regained his balance.
He looked around the room but saw nothing in the dim light. The moon shining through the window only provided a faint silvery glow. “Who’s there?” Jack hissed. “You possess great power, boy and it burns you.” a deep voice said but Jack couldn’t find the source of it. “Who are you?” asked Jack. He was afraid. He couldn’t see where the voice had come from and he didn’t recognize it. There was no response. “I tried to warn you.” a voice said. Jack jumped back, startled. Then he realized it was the mirror.
It chuckled softly. “Not funny. What the heck just happened?” Jack snapped. His reflection turned serious again. “I was blinded. I do not know who came or how they knew of your power’s consequences.” it said. “What do you mean blinded?” Jack asked. “I can see all that affects you, but whoever that was I could not see. You must be cautious and for now keep this to yourself. I must try to find answers. Your safety is my priority.” the mirror told him.
“I am so confused. How can you find answers and why is my safety important to you?” Jack said. “I cannot tell you certain information until the time is right. Be careful, Jack.” his reflection said, urgency in its voice. “Please explain to me what is going on.” Jack whispered. He’d been too loud before and he didn’t want anyone to wake up. However his reflection looked back at him with the exact same irritated and confused expression. The mirror was now as all mirrors should be. Jack made an exasperated sound. He laid on his bed, confused and irritated. “Be careful.” the mirror’s voice echoed.
Jack sat up in his bed unable to sleep. He didn’t know what was going on and what the mirror said only confused him more. Why was his safety a priority? Why couldn’t the mirror see who had been here? He was afraid that whoever this person was would come back. What did they want? They’d also known that his powers burned and he’d only told Emma and Peter. Alicia had found out by witnessing it. They had also said he had great power. That didn’t make any sense.
He had strange powers. Now they were all of the sudden taking a toll on him. Everything was so confusing and he had no answers for any of his questions. He just prayed that he would find answers at the Academy. I mean they’d have to have seen something like this before right? He knew there had never been a kid who could cast magic before going but maybe they would have answers to why it burned. He took a deep breath then laid down.
If they had wanted to hurt him then whoever it was could have. If they came back the mirror would warn him. Tomorrow he would be leaving and he needed to sleep. There was however something that was really bothering him. If that person hadn’t come to hurt him or anything like that then what were they doing here and what did they want? The mirror was trying to find the same answers. He hoped it did because the fact that someone had been in his house and had hidden themselves from the mirror was terrifying.
He finally drifted into an uneasy sleep. He dreamed of shadowy figures and running from them. All of the sudden the dreams were interrupted. Now he was in a room of complete white. There was no doors, no windows, and nothing in the room except...him? Another one of him. It had its back to him and it was fuzzy around the edges. “I..I don’t have m-much time.” his copy said, its voice glitching in and out. It turned and looked at him. “This is an odd dream.” Jack muttered. Not a-a dream. I am temporarily i-in your mind.” his copy said, urgently.
Jack opened his mouth to respond but what he realized was the reflection from the mirror raised a hand to stop him. “I have requested help so I could talk to you here. This is safe so no one can overhear. Whoever was here has masked themselves well. I cannot find out who it is. All I know is you are not safe, Jack. You must keep this quiet until it is known who you can trust. Powerful magic is being used and you must be careful. I cannot tell you how crucial that is. I do not believe I can enter your mind again. All I know is that evil is lurking and they are powerful.” he said, there was a slight edge in his voice. However his voice was clearer.
“How am I in danger? What do they want with me?” asked Jack. “Their intentions are unclear. All I know is you are involved somehow.” the reflection replied. “What do I do?” Jack said, a speck of fear in his voice. “Go to the Academy. You should be safer there. Do not tell anyone unless you know you can trust them. I must keep you safe so you cannot be reckless.” his reflection told him. “Why do you need to keep me safe? Who are you really?” Jack pressed. His reflection was quiet. “I am your Guardian in a way. There are answers I cannot yet give you. Forgive me for it but the less you know about me at the moment the better it is.” he said, finally.
“My Guardian? I need answers. I don’t know what is going on.” Jack replied, quietly. “I have given you the answers I can. It is complicated to explain. There are rules and there are reasons and someday I will be able to explain them to you.” his reflection said, sadly. “This is extremely irritating.” Jack retorted. “I know it is. You must try to find as many answers as you can on your own. Find people you can trust and complete your test.” His reflection told him.
“Will you give me one answer? I know you don’t have much on whoever was here but I want to know something else.” Jack murmured after a moment’s hesitation. “Depends on the question.” His reflection replied. “Why are there consequences to my powers now? It’s never hurt or made me tired before.” Jack said in a rush. His reflection was quiet as it chose its words carefully.
“The reason the consequences are appearing is because you are now tapping into your magic intentionally. The first few times you did it, it did not exactly work correctly so the consequences didn’t show.” It said slowly. “Why? Why are there even consequences at all? No one else seemed to have this problem when they casted spells at the Selection.” Jack replied, crossing his arms. “I’m afraid I must keep that from you. If you know the danger will grow.” His reflection said with a sigh. Jack groaned. “You don’t give me any answers that are helpful.” He muttered.
His reflection walked over to him and put a hand on his shoulder. It was weird having an image of himself touch him and talk to him. This whole situation was weird. “I understand your frustrations but I must keep you safe. Keeping this information from you is the best way I can do that right now. It is crucial that whoever this person is does not get the answers. If you do not know it will keep you safe. I just need you to trust me, Jack.” it said, sincerity in its voice.
Jack was quiet for a few moments. “I don’t even know who you really are and now apparently I’m not safe.” he replied, quietly. “You will be safe at the Academy. The teachers are powerful and the Headmaster is there. Just focus on your test and making friends. Forget about this for now because you will be okay. Do not do anything stupid, Jack. Do you understand?” his reflection pressed. “I understand.” Jack said. “Good now you must know that I cannot enter your mind again. An enchantment has been put on the mirror so it can’t be taken off the wall or destroyed.” his reflection told him, dropping his hand from Jack’s shoulder.
“So you’ll be here?” asked Jack. “Yes, I will be here but if there is something you must know, I will find a way to communicate with you. Before you ask I will watch over Emma and Peter while you are at the Academy. Whoever was here does not care about them they do not wish any harm upon any of your family. I just do not know their intentions with you.” his reflection told him. “Thank you. I-” Jack was cut off as the white room started shaking. His reflection became transparent and the edges of him were extremely out of focus. “J-Jack, I’m sorry. I d-don’t h-have anymore time. T-This is going to hurt p-please forgive me.” it said, it’s voice glitching and getting quieter.
Before Jack could respond he felt searing pain flare through his body. The room vanished and so did his reflection. The pain increased and everything was black. “Jack! Jack wake up!” a familiar voice exclaimed. Jack’s eyes opened and the pain receded. Emma had been shaking his shoulders and her expression was filled with worry. When his eyes opened she stopped shaking him. Jack felt something wet fall down his cheek. He realized it was a tear. He was breathing hard and he had broken out in a cold sweat.
He saw Peter and his mother standing in the doorway. “Jack what happened? Are you okay?” Emma asked quickly as she wiped the tear off his cheek. “Um I don’t know. What happened?” Jack replied, sitting up. “We heard you screaming and you were jerking around when we came in.” his mother said, softly. She had her hands on Peter’s shoulders. He looked upset and Jack knew he had probably scared him. “I-I’m okay. Bad dream I guess.” Jack muttered.
“Thankfully, father is a hard sleeper.” Emma murmured, hugging Jack. “Yeah, sorry I woke all of you up.” Jack said, hugging her back. “It’s alright. We would be getting up shortly anyway.” his mother assured him. Peter ran over and sat down on the bed beside Jack. “Stop getting hurt.” he demanded. “It isn’t exactly intentional.” Jack replied as Emma let go of him. “How many times have you gotten hurt?” his mother asked. “Just the river yesterday and this didn’t really count. I didn’t get hurt.” Jack lied.
His mother nodded once. “Well get dressed all of you. I’ll start breakfast and after we will walk with Jack to the center of town and say goodbye.” she said after a moment. “I don’t wanna say bye.” Peter whined. “It’s only for a little while and you have Emma to play with.” Jack said, putting an arm around Peter. “Okay.” Peter said, pouting. Emma laughed and Jack heard his mother chuckle softly as she headed toward the kitchen. “Come on, Peter. Let’s go to our rooms to change and let Jack change.” Emma said, rising. Peter jumped to his feet and ran out of the room yelling, “Chase me!” “Duty calls.” Emma told Jack then ran after Peter.
Jack laughed quietly as he stood up. He’d lied to all of them and he was still a bit shaken after the dream. He pushed it to the back of his mind. He was going to the Academy. He would be safe there and maybe get some answers. He changed into an old pair of pants and a white shirt. Today his life was going to change even more than it already had. He was going to be fine and whoever had been in his house last night wouldn’t be able to get to him and his family was safe…….. at least for the time being.
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