I wandered through the house and out to the garden, enjoying the crisp air. Agatha had insisted on following me, so we sat underneath an old oak tree on a stone bench. We sat in silence for a few minutes, listening to the sounds of the leaves and the crickets. It was Agatha who spoke first.
I find it wonderful that there are still people who practice magic, even in these desperate times.
I jumped slightly, flustered. I'm sorry?
She smiled a knowing smile, patting my knee. Not to worry, dear. I only noticed the mark while we were getting you dressed. It's quite hard to miss a crescent moon on someone who has such fair skin.
Ah. I said simply. I didn't know what to say to that, I just hoped that she wouldn't mention it to anyone else.
His mother practiced as well. Hers was hidden much better than yours, right on her hairline. She would joke and say it was a burn but I knew better. After all, someone had to do her shopping every month. Her eyes twinkled as she spoke of Arc's mother and I got the impression they had been very close friends.
I'm sorry I didn't get the chance to meet her. She sounds like she was a wonderful woman.
Agatha simply smiled. Aye, she was something. Had her head stuck in books of folklore and ancient spells to help a garden. Quite the contrast to her husband, I might add. She lived for the supernatural while he dealt with facts. He did admit the only times he felt there was something else in this world was when he met her, and when dear Arc was born. So that must account for something.
And you? What do you believe Agatha?
I believe in the lore, there's no reason not. I've seen a mother brought back from the brink of insanity by rose oil and raspberry leaves. It is hard not to believe with miracles happening before your very eyes daily.
A tall figure started heading towards us and I stood, my body tensed. Agatha chuckled and patted the bench. It's just the young Master, m'lady. No need for violence.
I blushed lightly and sat back down, Agatha exhuming an air of amusement next to me. She called out to Arc.
Why, hello young Master. It seems you found Miss Ambrosia's little hiding place.
He smiled as a slight breeze ruffled his hair. I was not aware we were hiding from anything. I was just coming out to tell the two lovely ladies in my life that the guests have left."
My eyes widened slightly. Already?
He nodded. It seems my liquor did not keep them as occupied as I thought it would.
Agtha stood quickly, looking quite spritely for an older woman. I shall go handle the house then. She winked at me and took off, all but leaving little flurries in her wake.
Quite energetic, isn't she. I said dryly. Arc smiled and looked after her. Yes, she is. That's what makes her such a wonderful person. He held out his arm to me, his lips curled into a crooked smile. Would you care to join me for a walk around the garden? I won't be as good company as Agatha but I like to think I can be close.
I couldn't help but smile at his demeanor. So sheepish. It was endearing. I grabbed his arm and nodded. I imagine we can keep each other company, yes.
We walked in silence, occasionally commenting on mundane things such as the weather and the party. It wasn't until we were almost back to the servant's entrance when he spoke.
I would like to thank you for walking with me. It is not very often I have such beautiful company in the garden.
I patted his arm. Thank you for taking me in. Anyone else in your position would have killed me, or at the very least turned me in to the authorities. Not offer to take me into their home and hide me.
My mother believed that nothing is ever as it seems. Where my father would see things in black and white, my mother saw a full spectrum of colors.
She must have been quite interesting to have as a mother.
That she was. He took my cloak as we ventured inside, hanging it next to the furnace. Well, I'm afraid I have to head to my study to finish up some work before the winter hits. I shall see you in the morning?
I nodded and he wandered off. I looked around for a moment, eventually heading towards the kitchen. On my way there Agatha found me, a basket beneath her arm. Miss Ambrosia! Is there anything I can help you with?
I was just exploring, thinking of maybe having a cup of tea and a sandwich.
Allow me. She led me to the kitchen and had me sit at the table while she waited for the kettle to boil. Occasionally her eyes would wander to the window, the full moon starting to rise in the sky. I looked at the basket and something clicked. You practice magic.
She smiled at me, grabbing the screaming kettle off of the stove. Not very often. Winter is mainly when, since so many people get sick and the predators start to prowl.
I took the cup she offered to me, the tangy scent of raspberry filling my nose. That makes sense.
Agatha stared at me a moment before continuing. Might I make a suggestion before I leave?
Hm?
Your mother raised you as a siren, or something of the like. Avoid going out under the full moon when it is at it's high point. And alcohol, for that matter.
Might I ask why? I was now curious.
Whatever she raised you as is what you have the potential to become. Mistress raised Arc with chartomancy and omniromancy. Even if he doesn't know it. Your mother played with dangerous magicks. I do not want to see your downfall because of her misguidance.
How do you know my mother?
She grinned. The same way I knew you, child. I brought you into this world, kept you safe with your mother. That is what a midwife does, at least one who handles the magickal realm.
I sipped at my tea, processing this new information.
Agatha patted my head as she headed for the door. Time to bring new life into the world.
Before I could turn she was gone, nothing but the smell of raspberry leaves and honey in the room. I decided to finish my tea and head to bed, my mind too clouded to stay awake. As I laid down my mind wandered to my exchange with Arc in the garden this evening. I found myself smiling to myself and quickly drifting to sleep
