CACKLE- Book 1

Chapter Seven

The scene was set. Darkness had fallen, and there were few precious moments before the full moon would be over the cavern. The spell had so many specifics. Conjured on a witches date of birth, during a blood moon, cast when the moon was at its highest peak (midnight).

There hadn't been a true blood moon for many years and there would not be another for decades, perhaps centuries. This would be their only shot. The stars seemed to have aligned for them. Remi could feel the Goddess looking, and watching their every move. She allowed herself a brief moment to close her eyes and envision the Goddess' arms wrapped around her in a motherly hug, lulling her fears away from her quivering heart.

Anna and Remi had spent a long time reviewing and re-reviewing the ritual steps. Drawing runes and sigils in the earth around the circle they had chosen for this moment. Painting runes in Anna's blood along Remi's limbs. The moonlight would pour over Remi soon and their brief window of opportunity would begin.

Remi's hands were shaking as she dipped her finger back into the small bowl of blood and traced the last sigil over her heart with her fingertip. A cool, tingling feeling swept over her body. Her eyes closed and she did not have to look up to know that the moon was now over their cave. It was time, her magic could feel it. Little flickers of green sparks danced across her fingertips. She looked at Anna whose face was pale, the only color left on her was the deep red staining the freshly tied bandage on her forearm. She didn't look at Remi. She only tilted her chin up and gazed at the moon.

"You're ready." Anna said, her voice was steady.

The two ran to each other, embracing tightly one last time. Tears ran down Remi's cheeks, her throat felt tight and she could feel a sob building in her chest.

Anna brushed her hand over Remi's hair. "Do not be afraid, my little flame. You were made for this. You are strong."

She gently raised Remi's head so their foreheads were touching. A calming gesture Anna had done with her since she was a small child. Remi suppressed her desire to burst into hysterical fits of crying. She had to be strong enough for both of them. Once the ritual began there was no stopping it.

"Thank you." Remi breathed. "For everything."

Anna's breath hitched and Remi pulled away to see tears rimming her eyes, but she was smiling. "You have been my greatest adventure. The daughter I always wanted. The daughter, I will always have. I love you so much Remilia." She looked to the circle, now bathed brightly in moonlight. "It's time."

"I love you too, mom." They embraced for one final hug.

With deep breaths they parted. Remi walked to the centre of the circle and looked at Anna. She nodded and smiled softly.

Remi closed her eyes and felt her magic flow through her body, feeling the soil beneath her bare feet. What was left of mother earth was now calling to her, singing to her, ready to begin. The singing... The singing was now coming from the walls around her. Her sisters were whispering, taking up a wordless melody. Just as they had when she was young. A charge of magic flew through the air around her, goosebumps rose across her body.

She opened her eyes. Fire and gold danced. Flickers of light and flame, glowing with her strength as she called her magic to rise from within. Anna took a deep breath, watching as Remi's eyes illuminated her entire face, her hair whipping back in a whirlwind that quickly filled the cave.

Remi lifted her arms, palms to the skies. Her feet rose, her toes dangled.

So it begins.