Chapter Two - The Ripening - Part Two

Part Two

written by Jenn Parker

(<- Lily)

I scream and struggle against Toni's weight. What the hell is going on now! My heart races a thousand miles per minute. Toni's face looked blank and not himself - not how he was before - he seemed controlled, because his stare looked so vacant - so emotionless and cold from minutes ago. "Toni, Hey Toni! Stop please!" I plead at him. Toni's lips suddenly crush against my own, I feel his pelvis grind up against mine. Tears start to well up as the disgust, shame and share terror wash over me. "GET OFF!" I scream. Struggling.

Suddenly everything goes white. Then I am standing a meter form where I was. Toni's body limp on the ground in front of me. What the fuck.

I feel shivers running through my body, I feel myself breaking into a sweat. My ears start ringing. I start shaking. What on earth is happening to me now. I run over to Toni and shake him. "Toni! Wake up - hey are you ok!?" I cry at him - his body limp, I check his pulse.

He is still breathing. At least. Suddenly a jogger runs over to me. "Hey! Are you guys ok? What was that just now - A massive flash of light came from here! It was unreal!!" The jogger said frantically. He checks Toni's pulse as well. "are you ok?" The jogger says putting a hand on my shoulder. I cant speak. I want to say something but I don't know what happened just now.

Everything just happens so suddenly - Im not keeping up. "Its ok - Just stay calm Miss. Im going to call an ambulance".

The taxi man drops me off outside my house. "That'll be $15 thanks" The driver says. I pay her and march over to Peter's house. It has got to be this weird necklace right! That was my very thought. I was angry - It's the only thing today that has been different. I keep doubting Peter, but ever since he turned up. More than ordinary strange things have been happening. Poor Toni - he seemed so normal earlier - and then it was like he was a mindless zombie the way he was reacting. I felt like a got to know him a bit before the event - It didn't seem like the Toni I knew only moments before.

And the only different factor is this Necklace! That flash of light - The hordes of creatures, all only when Peter is involved. I burst through Peter's front door. "Peter!" I shout angrily.

He appears before me in the hallway, almost out of nowhere. "Rose!" he goes to hug me. I shove him away from me - He gives me a hurt look "I like how you a treating the house more like you can come anytime - which is what I would like" Peter said with a smile.

"Screw you!" I said "What are you plotting Peter - Since you have appeared even stranger things have happened to me - And I also think it is beginning to involve innocent people. I have been dealing with all this in silence and no one has been affected by my abilities before!" I begin to cry in frustration and flop exhausted to the floor.

Some birthday this is turning out to be.

"Rose - I don't understand, My intentions is to protect you!" He sounded hurt and sincere. I grab at my hair in frustration and pull my hands into fist's. "Really! Well can you explain today's events then!" I throw my bag at him violently. I want Peter to disappear - I want everything to disappear!

The present from Lily falls out of my bag as it hits Peters chest. "Rose - please calm down. Explain what is.." Peter stops mid sentence and stares at the little velvet box on the floor in front of him. "What is that - Where did you get that from" All emotion drained from his voice.

"Its a present from my friend" I say reaching for it, and reaching for my bag. Before I can grab it, Peter kicks it out of my reach. "Don't touch it!" He shouts at me. "Ugh Get Real!" I shout at him and push him out of the way. "Stop!" He says pulling me back into his grasp. "It's a trap - don't touch it!" I feel infuriated. He snatches it up and proceeds to walk off. "HEY!" I yell at him as he puts me aside. "Thats my present from my friend - Give it back to me - Its not trap you idiot - Your the one who has got me trapped!". There I said it.

Peter ignores me and keeps walking. I follow him down the hall into a study. He places the present into a safe and slams it shut before I can do anything. "Hey - what are you jealous it looks like your present or something!" I yell at Peter. Ugh I want to hit this man - He doesn't explain anything properly, I always feel like he is not being honest with me.

I take off his necklace. "Here take it - I don't want it." I place the necklace on a nearby table and storm out. "wait Rose, I will explain - I know that is not what it seems to be. It has a very evil aura - Like a curse. It uses the same kind of enchanted magic I have used on your necklace.

Except it Nullifies the effects of the one I gave you. Whoever your friend is - wants you dead."

"Thats ridiculous!" I say to him. "Lily gave that to me! And that doesn't explain everything else that happened either! I think its your necklace that is dangerous! A bright light hurt Toni and he is unconscious in hospital right now - He is lily's brother you know!" I was so annoyed with Peter. Im trapped with this man, and he is ruining my 16th birthday as well. I just want everything to be normal. How do I know that I am even attracting that amount of monsters - what if it is all Peter's doing. I cant prove anything, neither can he.

"What... wait Rose - So you didn't meet up with Lily today? You met up with someone else."

Peter stated. "Yea and he was hurt because of me - he became a zombie like person and even tried to attack me, all because of this necklace of mine - You are the factor here that things have gotten stranger since you came!"

"No Rose - you have it wrong. That kind of omen curse on that gift, is meant to hurt you! And this zombie like state this person was in sounded like some kind of mind-control, especially if that barrier didn't occur until after you met the person." I don't get it "What are you saying?" I say.

"That flash of light, is a barrier, yes it comes from the necklace but only to protect you against other demons or demon magic. I seriously think someone has already targeted you! And I think they will use any one or any thing to get close to you" Peter exclaimed. I watch as he takes the present from the safe again. "I promised to protect you, to never leave you or hurt you Rose - I Promise, I swear I love you!" Peter grabs my arms. He pulls me into an embrace.

Warm. Relaxing. Soft. My heart races for Peter again. He loves me. He loves me. He loves me he said. Tears of frustration well up inside me again "Peter please.." my words hard to find.

"Here I will prove to you the ill-intent of this gift". He opens it up and inside is a cute little silver ring, with a pink sakura blossom diamanti on top. It was definitely Lily's taste.

"Watch this.." He puts the box into a little glass container. It looks as thought Peter is focussing his energy onto it. I can see his hands give a faint blue glow, so faint it is hard to see it is actually happening.

Before I know it Peter is thrown back against the other side of the room. "Peter!" I scream, I rush over to him. I help sit him up as Peter shakes his head. "Uggh.. Wow that is some powerful demon magic" He said, he held out his hand, and inside is the necklace he gave me. Starched.

When did he grab that, I turn back and look at the table, necklace gone. "That could have been you".

What! But Lily, would never, she is no demon, she is so pure and innocent. She would never, could never. "But - she wouldn't.." I say in dismay. "Maybe not her - maybe that Toni person.. no maybe they are being used, being used to get to you because the barrier wont let a demon get near you - so they have to use a human.... Thats it! That is it Rose!" I hear the honesty in Peter's voice. I like to see myself as a good judge of character.

I will believe Peter this time. He stands up and pulls me into a hug. "I'm so glad you are ok" He says running his hands through my hair. Peter. I let out a sigh. "mm.. Ugh! Haha..." I say uncomfortably at my own reaction to Peters touch. I pull away from him, blushing.

"Dont fight it" Peter says reassuringly urging me to come back to his embrace.

Woah this is intense. It's all too intense. Everything is just too over-whelming, and happening so fast. "Im sorry" I whisper and run home. I run away from Peter - the confusion, the over-whelming and intense connection to that man. My heart races wildly. I feel like I have butterflies.

The rest of my birthday goes on without much more excitement. I lay in bed awake. Creature free at least. I keep thinking about Peter. About the last couple of days. About what my life means up till now. I want to and I don't want to trust Peter. His concern and his honest feelings for me is almost too good to be true.

And it is true - I waited for this man. I know this now. I wanted him to love me, I wanted him to come back for me. I think I may have even been denying that I loved this child hood friend of mine once. But can I come to love the adult Peter - the one who somehow proves to me every time his protection and concern for me. I feel a warm fuzzy feeling wash over me. I think I want to see Peter again.. soon.

Before I knew it, I was at Peter's again the following day. Peter appears to grow more and more good looking every time I see him. The butterflies came back. So this is what it is like to have butterflies when you like someone I figured. Maybe it was just Peter's sudden love confession - I don't want to be an easy girl like that though - And fall for just any guy who tells me they love me. Even though I don't even have a choice with Peter.. I still want my first love to be the most important person to me because I got to know them. Im in no hurry with Peter.

Me and Peter chatted more about the demon world, about magic, about potential other dangers to be wary of. Not once did Peter mention our parting yesterday. I kind of wanted his advance again, I wanted to test my feelings. If I had t be sure of one thing, it's how I am feeling and thinking. I want to do the right thing.

Chapter Two - The Ripening - Part One

Part One

written by Jenn Parker

I felt trapped. I walk around the edge of the property to around the back of the house. They are everywhere. Waiting for me. Peter said I was hidden but It's really them that are hidden.. Are they just going to accumulate here? I start feeling scared again, a serious uneasiness befalls me. I glance over at Peters massive house looming over me. I ended up at the pathway between our house.

I sit down and bury my head in my hands. I need to go see Lilly. But if I leave here. Who knows how antagonized those little creatures might be. If I am "Ripe" now - Is this what it truly means. I don't want any one or thing like Karl turning up here as well.

My little spot makes me feel better as usual. I look over at Peters house again.. I realize a couple of things in that moment. Peter hasn't told me enough about how he can protect me - He said if I was with him the monsters would leave me alone. But will they be hidden like this barrier even though they are all following me, wanting to eat me. The thought creeps me out.

I discovered another pain of seeing and not seeing - I can't win either way.

I find myself pressing my finger into the door bell button on the front door of Peter's house.

Something is compelling me to see Peter now. It would definitely be a safe idea to consult him first before I leave with the way things are.

Before I know it he appears before me. Smiling. Gorgeous. I fail at something to say.

He just continues to look at me smiling as he takes my hand. Peter leads me inside, he says nothing and we walk to a sitting room at the front of the house. Peter sits me down and leaves the room again still saying nothing.

I sink into the couch, and let out a sigh. What am I doing here. I know I said I would come over - but I didn't think so soon. I text Lilly telling her I'm running a little late. Peter walks back into the room with a wooden tray and sets it on the coffee table in front of me. On the tray is a small velvet red box, a glass of milk and cookies. I glance up at Peter to see him laughing.

"You have this look on your face that says you need some cheering up - Isn't today supposed to be a special day. The birthday girl should be smiling" Peter said gracefully.

I blush. I did find the cookie part funny. I take one and taste it. Buttermilk and chocolate coated. I smile at Peter and finish the biscuit off. Peter has taken up a seat across from me on another couch. "Well, thank you for coming to see me - I didn't expect to see you so soon today though Rose, do you not have plans with friends or family today?" Peter crosses his legs and looks at me intently. His gaze hard and cold. I didn't notice before.. but I guess it added to his beauty - His eyes were intense.

"The barrier" I start "I... I went to leave and they are everywhere" I almost sob. I'm more upset about it then I realize. Peter gives me a thoughtful look. "I noticed". Peter gets up and walks over to me and flops down on the couch next to me and looks up at the ceiling as he talks "Rose.. It's going to be like this for now on - It pains me to see you have to go through this, for me this is normal, but you are also a target, and them gathering like this isn't normal. The only thing I can offer you is my company." He pauses and looks over at me again.

I can help but feel the warmth gather in my cheeks. He takes my hand in his, his hand feels warm and soft and safe. He gives it a squeeze "Rose - If you are with me they will leave you alone, that much I can promise. I know that you don't remember me, but shall I accompany you today, that way you are safe - and it will also give you a chance to get to know me".

I take my hand back from Peter and slightly distance myself away from him. "Peter.. Im sorry it's just too much to take in right now. I just want things to go back to how they were a few days ago." I sigh "Today.. I was supposed to go see my friend, but I cant just turn up with you. She will ask me a million and one questions about who you are! Also I want to be your friend Peter - but how do I know if I can trust you or not yet....". I stare at my lap. This is so awkward.

I feel like not really being there. Or anywhere for that matter. We both sit in silence for a couple of minutes. Peter grabs the velvet box from the table and offers it to me.

"Happy Birthday Rose. I want you to learn to trust me. I will never betray you. I promise".

I stare at the box in Peters warm hands. I hesitantly take it from him.

"I hope you like it, Its a present from me.. for the girl that I like.." His words startle me.

Girl that he like's. In which way.. don't say confusing words like that to me. "Please" he repeats. I keep starring at the box, I'm too afraid to look up at Peter. I'm too afraid to find out the deeper meaning that might be in his words.

I can feel Peter's intense gaze on me. I shyly open the box to find a beautiful silver chain with what appears to be a diamond in the shape of a tear drop. Its beautiful. "Peter.. I.." I begin but he cuts me out "Rose, I have been waiting for so long to see you.. Worked so hard and sacrificed a lot of things just to be here with you right now. With this charm, I want to swear my life to you - I will protect you, please see this as a way to trust me. I came back because you promised to be my bride".

"Yea but - I don't remember it Peter.. I cant keep a promise to you like that. I told you I would think about it.. And I don't want you to try buy my trust with presents.. It doesn't work like that in the human world!" I cant help say it. Even after all of Peter's kindness. Peter gives me a hurt look. I knew it, I shouldn't have come here - I cant do this to myself or to Peter.

"Can I at least see how it looks on you - You don't have to accept.. I just thought it would look lovely on you." Peter shifts in this spot then follows on to say "Actually, I had a feeling you wouldn't be able to be seen with me right away so I have enchanted this necklace as well. I have instilled some of my essence into the tear." He paused "So.. it means you will always have a part of me where ever you go". It sounded reasonable to me. I felt a bit more peace with that statement, I didn't want to be in a situation where I couldn't go anywhere without Peter.

I hand him the necklace and offer him to put it on for me. I lift my hair up to make it easier for him to place it on me. I feel Peters hands nervously pull the necklace around my neck - it feels cold to the touch but my own body warmth slowly changes that. "That looks lovely - Wait here just a moment" Peter gets up and leaves the room, he quickly returns with a small mirror.

"Here, see for yourself" Peter says with a smile.

It does look nice, it goes well with the dress - Almost to well. "Thank you again Peter, your kindness at this time - I'm not to sure what I could be facing right now if you were not here".

Me and Peter spend some time chatting about my birthday plans while I finish off the meal he prepared me. "Will you have some too - they really are delicious" I gesture to one of the last cookies on the tray. Peter quickly shook his head "It's ok - Im not hungry" he smiled. I got a feeling Peter was lying but I didn't want to talk about it - incase Peter changed his mind about eating me. I felt a little edgy again - I want to believe Peter's story but something seemed off. Maybe I just don't know enough about him yet. I cant even discuss finer and important details with my mum, who recalls Peter from my childhood.

I really wish I had someone else to discuss that with. I take a quick glance at the european styled cook coo clock on the wall. "Oh crap!" I declare. "I need to go - Lily is expecting me soon, Im still going to be late even if I leave now.. Sorry Peter - I promised, so I must go".

"It's ok" Peter says. Peter walks me to the door and we say a quick good bye. I step out of Peter's drive way - The monsters are everywhere. As soon as I step out of the barrier they all stare at me, motionless. Its like I created a huge scene and they have all stopped to look at what happened except I haven't done anything. None of them move, just stare at me fixated. It's very creepy. Creatures of all shapes, sizes and types - all just stopped whatever they were doing and stare motionlessly at me.

I try to ignore them but they don't approach me, but a few of them I know are definitely following me. - I hurriedly walk to the station to get the train I need to meet with Lily.

Everyone around me is going about their daily lives oblivious to the amount of scary creatures that surround and leech off of them everyday. One thing I did notice that when certain spirits or creatures were already attached to another person didn't pay me too much notice.

Eventually I find myself at the meeting place. No sign of Lily. I text her and get no reply.

I try phoning her and her phone is switched off, went straight to the answering machine. I start to feel a bit stink - maybe Lily forgot, she is always miss. punctual - So it feels a bit hard to believe. I wait around for another half hour - very weary of the creatures around me. Feeling less and less like being alone. I had some money I saved up for today in my purse - Very tempted to just go shopping for myself and get some lunch. I try to call Lily again. Still turned off. I hope she is ok.

I turn to walk off towards one of my favorite caf'es in the area - when a voice calls out to me "Rose! Hey!" A males voice I don't recognize. I spin around and see a tall boy with rusty blonde hair waving at me. He runs over to me and stares at me while he catches his breath. "Happy Birthday!" He says smiling. I search my mind for a name and face - I don't think I know this person. "Uhh.. thanks.." I reply awkwardly "um.. Sorry but I.... do I know you?" Why does this keep happening to me. The boy lets out a laugh "Oh sorry - I'm Lily's older brother.. Um, She sent me here to meet you, I have met you before by the way, I got one of those faces people dont remember - so dont worry about it" He said covering up the awkwardness quickly. I felt a bit relieved "Name's Toni!" He said gesturing a friendly handshake, I take his hand and return the gesture.

As I touch Toni's hand a chill shouts up my hand, my arm and then into my spine. "Ugh!" I verbally announce as I jerk back away from Toni. What was that - just now? A horrid feeling flashed in my mind, a disgusting feeling. I shrug it off and giggle nervously "Sorry, oh I have a bit of a headache - been a busy birthday morning" I giggle like I sound a bit dumb. Toni smiles "no worries - So anyways Lily couldn't make it - she was sent away yesterday to our aunties shop in the country to help. No cellphone coverage - she begged me to come see you as she was in a hurry." Toni explained away Lily's absence "Oh and I couldn't call because my phone privileges have been banned..."

Well that makes sense then. I was starting to jump to all kinds of conclusions - and with all the drama of the last couple of days - nothing was surprising me at the moment. "Oh" I said followed with another awkward silence. Toni kept smiling at me - he does seem vaguely familiar now that I think about it. "Well thanks Toni - When will Lily be back?" I quizzed.

"By monday afternoon, so she doesn't miss any school. I wanted to go - but the shop requires a women's skill I wouldn't get caught dead doing ha ha!" Toni said jokingly. The air around him lightened. Maybe I'm just a bit nervous about the whole situation. I shot Toni a smile and then had an Idea. "Hey Toni, I'm hungry so I was about to head down to a caf'e nearby - Uhm I was thinking since you so kindly came to tell me about Lily, i'd love to treat you to something in return, plus I would appreciate the company for a little while - What do you think?" It's the least I can do right. "Yes.. That would be great Rose" He said with a gleam.

Soon I found myself in the caf'e with Toni. The place was a very cute european stylized caf'e. Even sold pastries. Toni only wanted a coffee - but I had myself a club sandwich and tea.

"So where do you goto school Toni? You must be a couple of years younger than Lily - isnt that right?" I guessed. "Oh no actually - Im older than her!" Toni exclaimed and took a sip from his coffee. An older brother - she never told me about an older brother, I thought she had the one younger brother. I must've got it wrong. "I don't goto school anymore - Im not going to goto university either, I just want to work, earn money".

Toni explained to me in some detail bits and pieces of his life. He seemed really nice - shared some funny memories of Lily too which I didn't know about. Soon me and Toni had been so consumed in our conversation we actually found ourselves at the park across the road.

"Ah thats right!" Toni said suddenly mid-conversation. "sorry before I forget - Lily got you a little present. Toni gave me a sly grin which sent that horrid feeling down my spine again. I tried not to show and smiled "Oh really well can I see!" I hid behind my excitement.

"Sure" Toni reached into a small bag he was carrying and inside was a small red velvet box.

It was a lot like the one that Peter gave me earlier.

"Wow!" I said as Toni passed me the gift.... Again! That feeling as soon as I held the box I got that feeling again. This time I think I saw something. A flash in my mind. It was fuzzy. I shake my head, and go to sit down on a nearby bench.

"Rose!" Toni said in a worried voice "Are you alright - is it the headache?". I shook my head again and laughed "ah no, no, its really nothing". I smiled weakly - I wanted to get out of here. Something was telling me this wasn't safe. I didn't want to really ditch Toni but it was about time I got home anyway - The creatures everywhere as well are disturbing enough as it is.

"Uhh Toni - sorry, um, you know what I might open this when I see Lily at school" - I said putting the present in my bag.

"Oh well thats no good" Toni said. I felt the energy shift again around him. "Lily asked me to get you to open it right away!" I felt bad I didn't want to shrug Toni off after such a nice lunch with him, but I just felt like going home. "Well - It's ok, she will understand". I smiled back.

I got up from the bench and was thinking of a goodbye.

"No please Rose" Toni said dryly. His tone made me shudder - I knew it, something wasn't right after all. I look at Toni, the color seemed to have drained from his face. "I insist!" He shouted and pushed me against the ground. I let out a scream as I feel the weight of Toni's body pinning me down. I watch helplessly as the color of Toni's Iris go from green to black.

Update from the Author - 18th July

Hi Everyone,

Hope you are enjoying the Story so far. Please be aware that this story should be read with an open mind. And I am also aware that some Black Bird fans may not be impressed with the parody-ness of it all, however you will find that these two stories will be a lot different however similar it may have started out. I am a big fan of Black Bird - and also don't intend to remove any of the mature content or feeling of it either. If you have any comments or suggestions don't hesitant to e-mail me: ash.princess@xtra.co.nz

Thanks and Enjoy Chapter 2 coming very very soon!

Jenn

Chapter One - 16th Birthday - Part Five

Part Five

written by Jenn Parker

"Well.." Peter continues, his excitement appears to have calmed from before. "There are some things I can offer you, if you would like to become my bride - These creatures that hang on to you, you may have noticed but have you ever seen spirits around here in the gardens, or around me?" Peter is right, I did notice earlier that they seemed to have quietened down.

"Its because of me. If you are with me they wont bother you anymore.." I watch Peter hesitate "My kind is above all other kinds, so they don't bother me - buts thats why I knew I had to protect you". Peter walks over to me and kneels in front of me.

"Rose.. I... I am a Demon." Peter says. A chill runs down my spine. I have never met a Demon before. I'm actually having a lot of first's today.

"A Demon... so I would one day become the Demon Queen? But I'm just a human! None of this really makes sense, I don't understand why it has to be me? There must be other humans like me though. Cant you just use a Demon power to make them go away for me - aren't you really powerful?" I still have a lot of questions for Peter, even more now that he has said all this to me.

"No.. Rose, my power's don't work like that. Since the 'Karl' incident earlier this afternoon, I have put up a barrier around your house and mine. You will be able to freely walk around the two properties and nothing will bother you. It's like you are hidden here".

Hiding I thought.. Well I am good at that anyway - I have been doing it all by myself this whole time. Even if you had gone away.. Why didn't you take me with you Peter then.. why did I have to wait so long for you.

"Ok so you can offer me some peace from my other worldly stalkers" I say. "So I guess this means some peace for me but... I cant have a loveless marriage -" I say quietly. Peter looks slightly agitated.

"Peter I... Im sorry, it really is a lot to take in. I'm sorry for how I have acted - I just until now haven't had anyone to talk to this whole time. For me this is all strange and scary. I feel like I have been given no choices in this world. I know you did all this for me Peter, being away so long though.. I don't know you anymore.." I fiddle with my hands.

Peter stands, grabs my hands and pulls me into a hug. I struggle at first but he feels so warm.

I feel comfortable like this. Peter gently strokes the back of my head and holds me closely.

"Get to know me again Rose" He whispers. My heart skips a beat. His words are like magic. I've never felt like this before. The more I am around Peter.. the longer I keep talking to him. I feel like my resolve is being swayed.

"Please.. give me some thought" He moves his hands down my back. Tracing a finger down my spine. My body tingles at the sensation. "Ahh.. please Peter don't..." I plead. I can hear him chuckling. I push myself out of his grip. Blushing, I look away.

"I want to go home now... you said it's safe right... It's my birthday tomorrow as you know.. So I need to go home." I need to sleep on all this - I feel like my head in spinning with all the things Peter has told me. I feel sad though because he has done all these thing's for me. But I just feel like it's all because he needs to be King. If i decided to be his bride, it would be a loveless marriage.. But it also feels like it is my only choice.

Peter grabs my bag for me. "Sorry I didn't eat the meal you cooked me." I apologize to Peter. "It's ok - All the food here is for you anyway. Do with it what you please."

"I dont understand?" I say. "Well... I don't eat human food. I guess I thought things might have turned out a little different than what has happened today so I went a bit overboard" Peter says with a goofy smile. It was cute. "Thanks then... I'm sorry Peter. I will think about everything though ok. I feel like I can trust you a bit now. I think your kindness has been sincere." I say I was starting to feel guilty now. I wish my memories weren't so vague. Peter is the boy from my past. He was my first love I think. I wonder if thats how he felt about me this whole time..

I think if that was the case. Maybe I can be his bride?

Peter walks me to the pathway between his place and mine. I look up at his beauty. I feel nervous every time I'm around him because he is so good looking. "Rose.. Can I see you on your birthday. You might have some more questions for me, and I have something else I would like to give you." Peter gives me a genuine smile. It's nice, he has a nice smile. Maybe I can be his bride and fall him to with that smile. I shake my head. What am I thinking.. I'm just a mere human - I'm just some girl from his past. He probably has no choice but to like me even if he did. There is no way for me to really know his true feelings even though his body language for me is something else.

"Ok then Peter. I.. I want to be your friend for now. Again I'm not promising anything." I give him a smile and wave goodbye. "Thanks for your honesty - I will come over when I get a chance tomorrow!"

I woke up on my birthday with a smile. Today was my first day with no creepy little gnomes trying to mess up my morning. They are always pranking me. Like all my tooth paste would be gone in one night. Or all my socks would be missing the matching pair. And sometimes whole buttons would disappear from my shirts. Really annoying stuff. One summer holiday with my family I saw the gnomes the night before tinkering with our family car. Next morning dad told us the car wasn't working - and we had no car to take us to the beach all summer.

They just love to do really annoying things to me.

But this morning. Everything was normal. It must have been the barrier Peter said he created yesterday. I felt safe for once. I wondered though what Peter had done to Karl. Everyone at school know's who Karl is, even if they don't know his secret. To everyone else - he is just a normal kid. And he has a lot of friends.. I wonder if Peter... Killed him?

I shiver at the thought. I don't know anything about their weird world. Only what has happened to me recently and being able to see things. Again I found myself with lots of questions. I resolve that I want to know everything I can about this Other World, living secretly around the "normal" human world.

I roll out of bed and my family had already prepared a feast for me. Well it would have been mum who did all the cooking. But dad was home for once too. We all chat about our plans for the day. Mum has to work the late shift again. Dad was only home for this morning - he even made a special trip home so it turns out, just to see me. My dad was busy working on some business deal. Dad never really bored us with the details as he says, leave work at work.

Mum cooked me pancakes, layered with melted butter and maple syrup. My ultimate favorite breakfast. Their was also a range of fresh berries and yoghurt. It was well presented. In the middle of the table is a present, wrapped in shiny silver paper and a big red bow tide around it. I grinned from ear to ear when I saw it. If it is, what I think it is... It will be the white party dress me and mum spotted shopping the other weekend. Mum refused to buy it for me saying she cant afford it with my birthday coming up - But I'm hoping that was an excuse. Mum typically leaves everything to the last minute around presents and going to parties etc. Always buzzing around in a rush forgetting what had to be done or what she should be doing next.

I love my mum for it though.

"Well today Lily is going to come over this afternoon. She wanted to take me out or something - some kind of surprise for me." I tell mum and dad as a ate my pancakes. "Well thats good dear, you said you didn't want us making a fuss out of your 16th so we have left it up to you" mum says as she dishes herself out some breakfast. "Well you know.. Lily is really one of my only friends.. so.." I start, thats when mum jumps up from the table, as she normally does when she remembers something. She can be so animated sometimes.

"Yes that reminds me Rose! Your friend from when you were younger - Peter. He moved back in just the other day" Mum becomes all flustered with what she is saying.. "Why don't we have him over here for dinner sometime - He has grown up to be a very good looking boy Rose! I wouldn't mind if you bought a boy like him home with you either. You are of that age now!" Mum says with a laugh. I groan "Mum! Seriously..." I shake my head in defiance "That reminds me too - I met Peter the other day - He told me you wanted us to get married! Imagine him saying such things to me mum! Grrr!" I fold my arms but then couldn't help but laugh as well. "Well, you two were just so cute playing together when you were little!" mum says with a smile.

Oh so mum can confirm Peter is who he say's he is. My mood changes. I guess this means that what Peter has had to say - is true... I cant decide to soon though. Well I did say I would see him this afternoon. I finished off my breakfast and dad handed me my present.

"Happy 16th Birthday Rose!" mum and dad shout in unison. I say my thanks and take the present and unwrap the big red bow. Inside is a plain brown box. I open the box.

I jump from the table in happiness and bump the table in all my excitement. Mum shakes her head in dismay. "Wow thank you!" I jump up and down shouting at my parents. It was the white party dress as I had guessed. Mum is so predictable. "Ok well I am going to shower - and put on my dress!" I exclaim as I run upstairs. I can hear dad making a comment about teenagers as I close the day. I have a bit of a laugh. I really do love this dress though.

The dress looks stunning on me. It was frilly across the bottom hemming and sat rounded off the shoulders. It had a woven flower pattern all over it. It was a very cute and intricate dress.

I did my hair and make up to match. I was happy that I could look nice on my birthday.

I went downstairs and showed mum and dad my dress. Mum already has the camera ready and we all take some photos together. Not long after that mum and dad have to take off for the day.

Finally I have the house to myself.

I dial Lily on my cell phone. No answer. I let it go - she was probably in the shower or something, our meeting wasn't for another couple of hours. I spend the time enjoying the quietness. It felt like possibly the first time I had ever been truly by myself. I hadn't seen a single creature since yesterday afternoon.

Those couple of hours went quickly, and I find myself dialing Lily again as I still hadn't heard from her. Again I put it down to she has already gone to the meeting place and can't hear her phone or something. I leave it at that and then decide it was about time I left to goto the meeting place as well.

It was a beautiful day - I was definitely feeling lucky. But as soon as I step outside the front gate. It all changed. There are swarms of them. Sprites, Gnomes, Fairies, Ghosts you name it - They are crawling around everywhere. I step back past the fence again. They vanish.

I do this a couple of times. Every time I seem to go over the barrier.. more appear.

I feel disturbed. One because for the first time I realized that the barrier made it also so I couldn't see them while also keeping them out. But I also realized what it meant to be 'Ripe'.

Chapter One - 16th Birthday - Part Four

Part Four

written by Jenn Parker

"Rose, I will give you all the answers you want ok. There are some things I was going to explain to you anyway." Peter said with a smile.

He looks like he has calmed down too. I feel unsure on what to do - I need answers. Do I trust this man, I feel like I want to trust Peter, I definitely will not be his bride though.

"Rose, please come inside - I just finished cooking you something. Lets get warm, have something to eat and please let me explain everything to you. I promise you now, I swear Rose I will never hurt you. As long as you are near me, you are protected." Peter held out his hand towards me, again with his beautiful smile.

I dont know what other choices I have, if he is as strong as Karl then .. Wait "Karl!" I realize. I have been so preoccupied with the recent drama that I had forgotten all about how much danger I am in right now.

"Dont worry" Peter says. "That bastard goblin has already been dealt with". I gulp. 'Dealt with' I thought. "Peter I..." I am unsure what to say to him in this situation - I cant oppose him.. "Ok.. please tell me about my abilities and this bride and food thing works. It doesn't mean I'm going to trust you either." I take Peters hand.

His warm hand holds me firmly as he leads me back down the long corridor. I study Peter from behind. He is tall with broad shoulders, much taller than I. He is definitely good looking, no he is beautiful. Who is this Peter, how will I feel if he is the boy from my past. My heart begins to beat faster.

"Dont worry Rose, I promise I will never hurt you. Im not a goblin." Peter speaks as if he can feel my heart pounding. I feel a mixture of fear, confusion, tiredness, nervous and even slightly happy. I want to know about this power - I had always accepted things were the way they were. But I really don't have any idea why, everything in my life is this way...

The kitchen is filled with the same dated furniture with a nice breakfast table set up next to a bay window looking into the houses beautiful gardens. Peter gestures to me to take a seat.

I nervously sit down at the table.

Peter brings over a tray. Eggs, toast, bacon, fried banana, squeezed orange juice. It looks delicious. "Please eat Rose, it will help you feel better. I will explain everything to you now so please relax". It feels like Peter has some sincerity. He went through all the trouble to make me this meal, and all I've done is slapped him, yelled and screamed at him, told him he was going to eat me.

I will hear Peter out. But the moment he proves me other wise I'm going to get mum and dad to move away from here.

"Well, first off - I will tell you how I know you". Peter begins. He takes the seat across from me and seems to keep his distance as promised. "10 Years ago I lived here, with my mother and my father. Your mum would work for my family as a nanny while you were young. You and me, we used to imagine lots of games together in my backyard. You were my best friend. But there was another reason why I lived next to you. But you and me didn't know at the time." Peter says as he looks me in the eyes. It feels like there is some hidden pain here. More to his childhood story than what he is going to tell me at this point.

"And this reason?" I egg Peter on. "My parents wanted you to become my bride. But Rose, your not just any girl, you HAVE to become my bride no matter what in their eyes. Your mum was thrilled with the idea she used to say how cute we could be."

Ah! Mum! I'm going to have her up about this at some stage. She hasn't ever said anything about this to me. "Of course your mum wouldn't know the real reason.." Peter continues.

"Ok so tell me already please!" I say getting annoyed - I didn't like where any of this is going. And I don't remember a thing of it. "Well you need to be my bride because you are the Ash Princess."

"Ash....... Princess...!" I slam my hands on the table "What! Ok this story just sounds more and more crazy, now I'm a princess!" Peter raises his hands in mercy, "Wait. Please just hear me out - It will make sense once I have said the whole story."

"When one of our kind finally die they turn to ashes, we can live for several centuries but we are not eternal. Except for a certain few. My father, My great grandfather and so on. Me and my grandfather are the only ones who haven't eaten the Ash Princess."

I gasp. So does this mean Peter's parents have stopped me from traditionally being eaten. Even though his father ate a person like me!?

"However chilling that might sound - There are 2 sides to this story. My mother is the last Ash Princess, and she gave both her life and heart to my father. However my father loved my mother so much that he gave his demon tear to her, the source of all his power and then she was reborn. But she did this to save his life, he was going to die, so he did it for her in return."

"Wow, I'm sorry Peter at the start of that story, I was starting to not like your father, but then at the end of the story, now I understand that they loved each other.." I blush at the realization of what I just said. I look at Peter and see him smiling.

"Uh.. well Ok so - I think what you are saying is I am this kind princess person. And are you giving me the choice of choosing to be a bride? Knowing I could be eaten." I say.. my heart skips a beat. Would he really do that for me? There must be more to this story.

"Well, also my family is the highest ranking of my kind. Because my father has the Ash Princess as his bride. Whoever can accomplish this will be the crowned family. That's why you are a princess, you are to become royalty."

I knew it, I'm like a trophy for him, this means he will be a Spirit King? I don't even know what kind of creature he is? All I know is that he can see what I see.. and maybe freeze goblins too?

"But Rose.. I'm doing this to protect you! There are others out there like me and as powerful as I am who will come to drink your blood dry. Like Karl today. He wont be the last of them now."

Peter looks away from me awkwardly.

"You are becoming ripe tomorrow." Ripe? This is all falling in with what Karl was saying before he was about to bite me.

"What you are Rose is someone who attracts demons and spirits, other world creatures, dark and scary creatures. But your also someone who gives life and is like a balance amongst chaos, you are the light that needs to shine into our world. You are so shiny in this world that you are easy to find, we are like moth's and you are our flame. Our Queen to be..". Peter lets out a sigh.

"Rose, you and me when we were little - we both didn't know any of this ok. I was only told that day I left you - thats why we made that promise, I promised to come back for you because I knew I had to go to train to grow up to protect you. I have spent the last 10 years of my life doing everything I have for you!" Peters face is flustered. I feel touched, he seem's to be really sincere with how he got so worked up telling me everything he has now told me. "I liked you a lot when we were younger." Peter stands up from the table.

"Rose I hope this eases you - I know I have told you a lot just now, but what did you take from everything I have told you?" Peter says brushing his hand through his hair.

I look down at my food. I haven't touched it this whole time. I use my food as my distraction and take a bite from the toast. I can feel Peter looking at me. I swallow and put the toast down.

"Peter.. I.. understand I think. Basically tomorrow when I turn 16. Im going to become a super homing beacon for all the little pranksters I love to hate. Then they wont leave me alone because they will want to eat me, or make me a bride. But if I become your bride I get to be a queen of all those scary little things anyway..." As flat as that sounded, it was the truth! This is the life I have been living! I let out a reluctant sigh.

"However.. I know that sounds harsh, but I don't understand what I get out of everything? I don't want any of that for myself. I have been trying by myself all this time to be normal, I have hidden everything as best as I could to protect myself from the taunting and the pain. I don't get anything out of being your bride! There is no happy ending for me is what you are telling me!"

I cant just accept any of this. I push my plate away "I kindly decline your offer. If your going to eat me mr. spirit thing then just eat me already!" I shout at Peter.

I hate this, why is this what my whole life has summed up to. There is not free will in any of this. Its unfair. What about my family. My friends, Lily! My dreams of growing up and having a family. I cant have any of that because I'm like this. I begin to cry again, it's sore now. I've definitely cried a lot in the last few hours.

"Rose, there are some rules you still need to hear - If this will make you feel better". It looks like Peter is forcing himself to smile. Peter has been calm and answered all my questions so far. I feel harsh, he says he did all this for me.

"Ok Peter, I believe who you say you are. I will hear out your request, but If my final answer is no, then I want you to leave me alone, please." I've got my own rules too! Im not going to just sit here and do nothing while destiny or fate or what ever takes my freedom from me.

Chapter One - 16th Birthday - Part Three

Part Three

Written by Jenn Parker

Karl rears his head in the notion he's about to bite into me.

I squeeze my eyes tightly in the anticipation of the blow.

But nothing comes. "Urk" Karl makes a strange sound, I hesitantly open my eyes. But I find him starring at me frozen. Completely frozen. His expression of hunger and desire - fixated at me. I gulp.

I look around and there is nothing. Karl doesn't move. He doesn't make a single sound. I decide to bolt for it.

Before I know it I am running, running as fast as my feet will take me. Im running but I don't know where to. As long as it is safe.

I stop to catch my breath at a bus stop. It gives me just a moment to get back to reality.

I realize I am covered in my own blood, even from a shallow cut. Karl said that I smelled tasty. What if he can find me? What if he isn't the only one out there like him who can also smell me.

Irrational, crazy and scary thoughts start to pollute my mind.

I formulate a plan. First I need to get somewhere safe, as soon as possible. Then get this blood off me, as soon as possible.

I start running again, almost automatically. My heart is beating so fast now with fear that I might almost pass out if I am forced to do this any longer. Somehow I find my feet taking me to home. But what can mum or dad do, are they in danger now?

Peter! That's it, I will go see Peter, he appears like a strong man and he can see them too. He will be able to help me. He said to come see him anytime.

Before I knew it I was standing in my garden path of serenity. I really enjoy this spot, I automatically start to feel a bit calmer. But not safer.

I hurriedly run to the nearest available garden hose in Peter's backyard. I try to turn the tap on for the water but my hands are shaking. I quickly look around me, I don't see anything. Or any spirits either, in fact its rather quiet right now.

I panic again, is this a good thing? Is it the calm before the storm?

I force the tap on and the water chokes out of the hose, It appears it hasn't been used in awhile.

I blast the water at my face, my top, my skirt. I don't want Karl to find me. The water is cold and I soon find my whole body shaking. I squeeze out the excess water that I can. I wonder where Peter is... If he is not home right now, I'm probably in big trouble.

I gather my stuff together and turn to leave. But a sudden males voice stops me.

"Rose" The voice to brief for me to confirm the owner. Suddenly two warm heavy arms grab me from behind. "HELP! Please don't eat me, please don't touch me!!" I scream as loud as I can. I struggle but I am too weak from all the running moments before.

"Rose, Stop, Calm down... It's me, Peter!" the voice says sternly to me.

Peter. I'm so relieved it's him, he loosens his grip slightly, so I maneuver myself on a better angle to see him.

I can see clearly Peters kind and beautiful face. I start to cry. I think I'm safe now - I don't know this man at all but I feel like I'm protected right now.

My eyes flutter open slowly. That feeling I woke up somewhere else again hits me in the gut.

I sit up and take a quick sweep of the room. It was large and filled with a lot of dated furniture, but it was antique and looked like it is also well looked after. Definitely a wealthy person's room. Where am I now... This muse be Peter's house. Is this his bed? I hear some tinkling of what sounds like someone in a kitchen nearby.

The last thing I remember is Peter finding me hosing myself down in his garden outside. Then me bawling my eyes out in fear. Did I cry myself to sleep? I have too many questions. Where is Peter - I think he owes it to me, since he knows me to explain something about what is happening already...

I slide out of bed onto the marble floors. They are cold to touch. This house really is lovely, everything looks expensive.

Thats when I notice what I am wearing. A white silk gown with a white silk robe over top.

Two things occur to me at this moment. One I don't know if I am a virgin anymore and the second - Someone has seen me naked!

My face turns red and I can feel the scream welling up from the bottom of my stomach.

I scream till I think the next block of neighbors heard me loud and clear. Peter proceeds to burst into the room in a frantic rage. "Rose, are you ok!" He cries out to me as he run's over. He grabs me by my hands. "Are you ok?" He repeats.

"Where are my clothes.." I say flatly while quickly pulling away my hands. Peter gives me a odd look. "In the wash... Uhh.. Rose why were you screaming - Are you ok, I still don't know why you were standing in my garden. Drenched head to toe in water, and blood stains all over your uniform."

"Peter.." I say firmly "If my clothes are in the wash - How did I get into these?" I say pointing at my new apparel. Peter's slight blush as he looks away from me to answer confirms it all.

I slap Peter as hard as I can. "You creep! You looked at my naked body - You touched my naked body!! Your no better than that thing that just tried to eat me!" I yell at Peter. I am so confused - I don't really want to yell at him but my feelings just kept flowing out from me. "I came to see you, because I was so scared!" I spy my school bag on the chair across the room.

I walk over and open it and check the contents. I swing it over my shoulder and head for the door Peter just walked through. "At least you didn't take my virginity - but I know you didn't because I heard it was painful. Stay away from me from now on". I storm out of the room.

I dont know where I'm going but I decide to run back to my house to get changed. I run down what felt like a corridor that went the entire length of the house. I quickly look behind me to see Peter standing outside the door of the bedroom, still at the other end of the hall. I take the first door that looks like an exit. And burst out into a garden courtyard.

It was a dead end.

I turn back to the door but Peter is already standing there in the door way, with his arms folded. He looks mad. But I did slap him though. I run to a corner of the courtyard and grab a garden rake posted up against the wall. I hold it out in defense towards Peter.

"I will use this.. Don't come near me!" I yell at him scared. I thought I could trust this guy but he looks seriously agitated. Why is all this happening to me now? I've never had this kind of event before. Peter edges closer to me with his hands held up in surrender.

"I want you to know right away who I am Rose. I was actually upset to see you have forgotten me." Peter stops and puts his hands down.

I keep the rake pointing at him. How can I trust a man I just met when my mind is so foggy.

"How do you know me - Tell me more, you were so vague. How can I trust you yet?".

My wet tears fall from my eyes and my vision goes slightly blurry. I'm so scared of everything right now.

"Please, Rose - I came back for you! We made a promise, and Im worried about you." He shakes his head. "You thought I wanted to eat you... Rose I came back because you promised to be my bride!" His voice sounding pained.

A Bride.... Karl's words came back to me again. So I'm nothing but a trophy then. He hasn't said anything to me about love. I cant be a bride without love! I don't know this man. "I don't remember such promise plus you still haven't said anything that would make me believe you!" I poke at the air in front of Peter. Im not going to be somebodies bride or dinner without some answers first!