Singularity
Chapter 46

Sephiroth made his way up the stairs. He found Michalei in the library surrounded by books and hand written notes. He didn’t wait for his attention before he began to speak.

“Kira was here.” He said.

“When?” He replied shocked.

“Just a few minutes ago. I saw her in the hallway.” Sephiroth replied

“What happened?” Michalei asked curiously.

“She insisted that her name was Ciara and that this was all a dream. I tried to talk sense into her but she disappeared too quickly.” Sephiroth sighed and took a seat.

“Well that’s good.” Michalei said closing the book and leaning back in his chair.

“How is that good? My daughter can’t even remember me.” Sephiroth growled.

“Now we know she can still come home. We also know who she believes she has become. We can use this knowledge to our advantage. Hopefully it will bring her home permanently.” Michalei replied.

Sephiroth sighed, “You’re right my apologies son. I’m just tired and frustrated.”

Michalei smiled, “It’s completely understandable my king.”

“It’s one thing living through something like that. It’s a completely helpless feeling watching my daughter go through it. It makes it all that much worse knowing it was my fault.” Sephiroth responded.

“I’m sure it is.” Michalei replied. “Do not think too much of it. I’m working on solutions. We’ll get her back, I promise.”

“Thank you son,” Sephiroth responded. “Now this old man is tired. Think I’ll replace my way to bed.”

“Rest well my king.” Michalei said and returned to his studies.

It was a long ride back to Cheboygan. Ciara was sore and exhausted. It was a bit disorienting for her when Derek pulled in the driveway. She felt as if she was looking at their home for the first time. He parked in front of the attached two car garage as she stared off at the massive two story home with the white picket fence and wraparound porch.

Nothing about it felt right as Derek held open the door helping Ciara down and out of the truck. She could barely walk as the pain shot through her legs and lower back. He put his arm around her and helped her up the porch stairs.

As he unlocked the door he said, “Now I want you upstairs, in bed, resting.”

“You’ll get no arguments there.” She smiled.

“I’m going to check on the animals and then I’ll be up to check on you.” He kissed her forehead. “I’ll be back soon.”

“Alright darling,” She kissed his cheek then watched him walk away.

Ciara walked across the foyer and slowly made her way up the stairs. She turned down the hall, opened the door to the master bedroom, and shed her clothes. She left them in a pile on the floor and curled up under the black down comforter. She stared absently though the foot board posts and out the window. Before she knew it, she was asleep.

This time Ciara found herself standing in a doorway. She was looking into a large room where one wall was lined with windows. There was a man practicing with a sword in front of a large red velvet chair. She leaned against the door frame arms folded across her chest, and just watched him for a while.

The man was apparently skilled. His movements were fluid and graceful. Ciara watched as he worked himself into a sweat. Suddenly, he stopped, looked at her and smiled.

“Hello,” He said.

“Hi,” She smiled and made her way into the room. “You’re really good at that.”

“Thank you,” He replied his blue eyes shining. “Would you like to spar with me?”

“Oh, gee, I don’t know.” She blushed and shrugged.

“I bet you’d be good at it.” He said as he lifted the sword belt from the chair and passed it to her.

They felt oddly familiar as she pulled them from the sheaths. “You think?”

“Absolutely, no harm in trying is there?” He replied.

She twirled the blades around in her hands, “No, I suppose not.”

The blades snapped open she jumped startled, “Holy shit.”

“Nice aren’t they?” He smiled. “Are you ready to try?”

“Sure,” She twisted the handle in her left hand so the blade rested against her forearm.

“I’ll go slow for you.” He said as he raised his sword.

Ciara blocked the man’s first swing, surprised by her own strength. It was like instinct took over as her right hand swung upward, her blade grazing the man’s cheek. He stepped back, swung sideways, and once again got deflected. She twisted with him causing him to go off balance. She elbowed him in the nose spun around and crossed her blades as his sword aimed for her head. His blade lodged in the arches of hers. She wretched it from his hand and let it fall to the floor.

“You’re good,” He smiled as he lifted his hands in defeat. “Who are you? I have to know.”

“I am Ciara,” She smiled proudly.

“Lovely name Ciara,” He wrapped his arm around her and pressed his body close to hers.

“I am Michalei,” He said looking deeply into her eyes.

“Nice to meet you Michalei,” She replied breathless from his touch.

Their lips met for only a moment. Her skin tingled as if she was filled with electricity. She had to pull away.

“I can’t,” She whispered.

“Why not?” He asked as he kissed her again, allowing all his energy to flow into her.

“Dear goddess,” She hissed. “What is this feeling?”

“You must be magic.” He smiled and gently released her.

She could feel her body begging for her return. “I have to go.”

“I understand,” He replied as she turned away. “Until we meet again Ciara,” He bowed.