Blood Moon - The Forgotten Family

The Revelation

Riley and Toni had integrated into the pack seamlessly. Their skills and determination have earned them respect and admiration from the other members. To celebrate their inclusion and foster a sense of unity, Aiden decided to have a gathering.

The evening of the gathering, the compound was alive with activity. Pack members mingled, sharing stories and laughter. The scent of grilled food filled the air, and a bonfire crackled warmly in the center of the clearing. It was a night of celebration, a chance for everyone to come together and strengthen their bonds. Riley and Toni moved through the crowd, greeting familiar faces and making new acquaintances. Riley felt a sense of belonging she hadn't experienced in a long time. The pack had welcomed her with open arms, and she was grateful for the sense of community they provided.

As the night progressed, Riley found herself in a quiet corner of the gathering, talking with Ida. The two women had struck up a conversation about family, and Riley felt a connection with Ida that was both comforting and intriguing.

"Tell me about your family, Riley," Ida said, her eyes warm and inviting.

Riley hesitated for a moment before speaking. "My mother, Renee, was a powerful witch." Ida's eyes widened slightly; her interest piqued. "A witch? That's incredible. What was she like?" Riley took a deep breath, her gaze distant as she recalled the fragmented memories of her mother. "She was strong, kind, and incredibly powerful. I remember her being full of life and energy. She could command the elements with such ease. It was like watching magic in its purest form."

Ida nodded, encouraging her to continue. "She sounds amazing. What happened to her?"

Riley's expression grew somber. "She had been sick off and on through most of her adult life. But suddenly the illness took over. One day she was this vibrant force of nature, and the next, she was bedridden. I was very young, but I remember the change. She tried to stay strong for me, but I could see the pain in her eyes."

Ida's heart ached for Riley. "That must have been so hard for you."

Riley nodded; her voice tinged with sadness. "It was. She fought so hard, but the illness took its toll. She became weaker and weaker, and eventually, she passed away. I was left with my aunt Lydia, who took over my training. She was strict and demanding, but she made sure I was prepared for anything."

Ida squeezed Riley's hand gently. "I'm so sorry, Riley. Losing a parent is never easy, especially at such a young age."

Riley smiled faintly, appreciating Ida's empathy. "Thank you. I've always tried to honor her memory by embracing my abilities and fighting for what's right. It's my way of keeping her spirit alive."

Ida's eyes shone with sincerity. "You're doing an incredible job, Riley. Your mother would be so proud of you."

As they continued to talk, Aiden stood nearby, listening to their conversation. The way she described her mother it was like she had described Morgan when she was younger. He found himself listening more and more, just to make sure what he was hearing was real. He had seen the car explode, but did she really die? As he looked at Riley, truly looked at her, the realization of who Riley truly could be began to dawn on him. The power, the resemblance to Morgan—it all made sense now. But she said her mother's name was Renee Adler. There was only one way to know for sure. He needed to see her bo staff. If she was his and Morgan's daughter, that bo staff she wielded would have the symbols he carved on it.

Aiden's heart pounded in his chest as he tried to process the flood of emotions and memories. He remembered the day he had carved those symbols into the bo staff, a gesture of love and protection for Morgan. If Riley's staff bore those same markings, it would confirm what he was beginning to suspect.