The Word Sanctuary

Part 7

What? Dad?

Could her dad read minds too? Was he part of the organization? Was he a Protector?

No. Not from the way he was seeming waiting for her to come.

Was this a trap?

Was she dreaming?

Was that really her father? The jolly, happy, always-looking-on-the-bright-side dad she knew was no longer there. What was in front of her was a cold-hearted madman.

He was behind all of this.

"Ah, I see you've found me. And my plans. And this place. Wow. You really are something, Emmaline."

Wha...

"Oh, yes, Emmaline. I knew about you all this time. I knew you joined The Word Sanctuary. Oh, yes. And I hate that place. Always going on about how words are so important to the world, and how it's so great that people can use them. Especially that Mira. She was a friend of your mother's, you know. I think Annabelle got poisoned by her, into joining this place."

Boy, have I got a million and one things to say to you.

"Fire away."

Emmy blinked. She was supposed to think-say something? Emmy took a deep breath, then started, hoping she sounded braver than she felt.

Well, for starters, I have been helping. I joined about a week ago. And this place... well, it's more home to me than our new house. I have learned so much here. Mom did help here, and she risked her life to buy this place time. From you! And I know she didn't know about how you were the enemy, the reason she had to give her life, but she could sense it. I'm sure of it. She knew that someone would come and defeat Hate. That person was me. I know that. It is my destiny to come and destroy Hate. I just... cannot believe that you are behind this all. You loved her. I know you loved each other. The love got lost somewhere in the chaos you struggled with, not knowing whether Hate or Love was right. You chose Hate. You chose wrong. You should have chosen Love. Because Love is always right. Please, Dad. If I can even call you that.

He gazed at Emmy for a long time, then sighed in defeat. "You're right. I... I haven't been the best dad. I lost my love for your mother. You're right about a lot of that. You know what? Maybe I should call off the attack of Hated Creatures I just sent out."

Emmy smiled in triumph. Yes, maybe you — wait, did you just say "attack"?

He nodded, then stood. "Yes. Remember, Hate rules the world."

He then dissipated.