Book 7: Chapter 9

Book 7: Chapter 9

This is going to be amazing, Quinny said as Gwen stared into her kingdom heart, making changes. They stood in the love wood on the shores of Quinny's beautiful pond, surrounded by colorful trees that defied logic. Flowers of every variety grew around the trunks in thick bands, scenting the air with their sweetness. Lush water plants grew in the shallows, bursting with blooms of varieties not known on earth. Hannah stood beside Frank, holding his hand as Breanne and Umtha sat on a stone near the shore, watching the display.

Gisley, the beautiful purple-skinned night butterfly, danced over the water in anticipation. Nearly bursting from the excitement she felt. A long time ago, Hannah had promised her a special gift, and today, they were here to fulfill that promise.

There, Gwen said as she looked away from her interface. I added the permissions to the lake and set the parameters for them to spawn. Now we just submit. She tapped the air, pressing a button that only she could see. Instantly, five different colored lights burst into being as small six-inch garden fairies with butterfly wings came to life.

Gisley's squeal was ear-piercing as she fluttered after one, trying to see it closer. They were all tiny, beautiful women in gossamer gowns, fluttering together as they left a shower of glitter. Each was a different color and had a different look, but all giggled happily when Gisley declared her love for them.

This was worth the trouble just to see her happiness, Gwen said with an approving nod.

I should have done this sooner, Hannah said. I start so many things and never finish them.

Your life has been a little troubled of late, Gwen replied, putting an arm around Hannah's shoulders. And let's not forget your wedding is only days away.

Hannah smiled as she looked past Frank to where Quinny stood at his side. She was in her succubus form with her soft blue skin and purple eyes. She had been dreaming of the day she would marry for weeks, and the anticipation was killing her. Breanne and Blackbast would also officially marry them, and a special effort would be made to announce Umtha. This would unite all of them as one official family, with Gwen as their mother.New novel chapters are published on

Hannah couldn't wait to put the ring on Quinny's finger and end the poor woman's suffering. Still, she wondered why Quinny was so determined to marry and why she sometimes became distant and sad when the topic of family came up. She wondered if maybe she could get Quinny alone to talk about it and find out what was bothering her. If there was anything Hannah could do to heal her zombie girl, she would do it.

Her thoughts were interrupted when Gisley suddenly hugged her, thanking her profusely for the gift. She then flung herself into Gwen's arms, hugging her tightly before pressing her with a kiss. She thanked Gwen and danced away, her fairy girls flying after her as if she were their Queen.

Why didn't I get a kiss? Hannah pouted as she glared at her mother. I am the one who told her I would provide the fairies.

I have no idea why she chose me, Gwen said with a smile. But had I known there was a kiss on offer, I would have been here sooner.

So, as long as we are all here, Frank said before clearing his throat and looking at Gwen. I wanted to ask you something.

Hannah was surprised by Frank's sudden interest in her mother. He brushed back his long black hair and smiled with that handsome face before taking Hannah's hand. She wondered what he was thinking, but he kept his peace until Gwen replied.

What did you want to ask? Gwen replied.

Its about the monster players, Frank said. I think I know a way we can help them.

Hannah raised a brow as Frank laid out an amazing idea. He wanted to add the adventurers guild and create a chapter just for monster players. He would invite all monster players to register and spell out the locations of their lairs, inviting players to adventure in them. Gwen pointed out that many monster players wouldn't want to reveal the location of their lairs because of the risk of resetting. Frank then explained that was what he wanted to talk to Gwen about.

Hannah's jaw dropped as Frank explained his plan. He wanted Gwen to create the least possible noble title she could and reward it to any monster player who registered. All the title would truly grant the monster player was a place in her kingdom, rendering the entire region safe. Thus, a monster player could be killed away from his or her lair, and they wouldn't reset. They would be free to wander the entire breadth of the kingdom as they desired without fear of dying.

Frank, thats a brilliant idea, Breanne said. It would allow monster players who dont have a dungeon heart to be away from their lairs safely. It would change the whole game for them.

Only inside our kingdom, Frank pointed out. But thats better than what they have now.

This is a unique idea, Gwen replied, smiling almost evilly. And it will enrage our neighbors. I consider that a bonus.

You are so wonderful, Hannah said as she hugged him. Why do you have such a big heart?

He's the best, Quinny said as she clung to his arm. He's always trying to find some way to help people.

I just wanted to find a way to take some of the fear off monster players, Frank explained. I know what it was like to be away from my lair when I was helping Hannah. I was terrified of dying too far from the graveyard that I would reset again.

We have all felt that way, Breanne said. Don't forget I was trapped in that tiny graveyard when you found me. I know the maddening feeling that I am stuck here, and to go anywhere is a huge risk.

You are a credit to your kingdom, Gwen said. And I am proud to call you my son.

Hannah nearly laughed as Frank blushed at the compliment. He wasn't used to being treated with such respect, and to be called a son took a lot of him by surprise. However, Hannah noticed Quinny flinch but kept up her smile even though it appeared strained.

Frank then asked if he could announce the new system at the wedding as a sort of surprise for the kingdom. Gwen assured him she would create a small title that would do nothing but tie them to the kingdom to allow them safe travel. She encouraged him to make the announcement and include the new order under the Jade harem. It was the perfect time to tell the land that things had been reorganized and the harem was now the center of power.

They discussed the idea for a few more minutes until tiny voices went up in song as the fairies danced around Gisley. The sight was so cute that they all stopped to watch the display as the tiny girls fluttered around the fairy queen, singing to her sweetly.

They wandered off a little later, with Umtha asking if she could try on her dress for the wedding day. Gwen suggested they all come to the castle to try them on and make the day a family event. She would arrange a meal in the garden, and the girls could talk about their impending wedding.

They agreed and headed off, walking to a hidden magical forest portal triggered by walking between two trees. They came out near Hannah's tower in the swamp that was now beautifully decorated with colorful trees and climbing flowers. As part of the changes, the road before the tower was now part of the Lovewood, stretching all the way to Quinny's forest.

Gwen commented on how beautiful the tower looked, with carpets of colorful flowers hanging from every ledge. The tall blue and pink trees were also a nice touch, lending a magical quality to the area. They entered the tower and used the magic doorways, rapidly transferring to the castle. In minutes, the girls were given rooms in which each had a dress waiting. Hannah's was the same she had worn before, with a change made to accommodate her tail and four bands of color to symbolize her four wives.

She dressed in her gown and spun in the mirror to flare her lacy skirt. She slipped into some beautiful shoes adorned with red crystal flowers and headed into the hall. She reached the next door to peek inside and saw Quinny sitting on the bed, her dress on her lap, crying profusely.

Hannah felt her heart sink and silently slipped into the room, shutting the door behind her. Quinny didn't realize she was there until Hannah wrapped her in a hug and refused to let her go.

Quinny, please tell me what is hurting you, Hannah begged as the poor woman returned the hug, clutching at Hannah tightly.

I dont want to talk about it, Quinny sobbed into her shoulder.

Sweetheart, I cant bear to see you hurting like this. There must be something I can do to help, Hannah insisted.

You cant help, Quinny said as she sniffed. Nobody can.

I can break any system in his silly world, Hannah stated. I am sure I can find a way to fix whatever is hurting you. Please, if you love me, tell me what it is.

I never had any parents, Quinny cried, hiding her face in Hannah's shoulder. I grew up in an orphanage and never had a family. I never had anyone to care about me or look forward to my wedding day. I just want to have a mother like you do. I want somebody to care about me and call me her daughter.

Because I will have to find a faith that allows blood family to marry, Gwen said. The local faith forbids it. If you truly want Quinny to become your full-blooded sister, you will have to find a more uncivilized priest who can perform the ceremony.

Why must it always be so hard? Hannah groaned. All I wanted to do was make her happy.

Your goals were noble, Breanne said. But we should move ahead with the wedding, and Gwen will become her mother-in-law.

It would mean so much more to Quinny for Gwen to be her true mother, Hannah replied, looking to the window. And I would do anything to make her happy. She paused as she considered an option before turning to Gwen with a firm expression.

I want to step down, Hannah said. I will step down and give up being your daughter, and you can make Quinny your daughter instead.

Don't be foolish, Breanne quipped, but Gwen snapped a finger, calling her to silence.

You would give up your title and position for her? Gwen asked with a stern voice as her face hardened. Hannah sensed a hint of displeasure in the woman's tone. She certainly didn't want to upset Gwen and prayed that her mother would understand.

Please, Hannah begged. It means so much to her. It means a lot to me, too, and I love being your daughter, but if this is the only way to make her happy.

Gwen nodded and drew herself up tall. Think carefully about this. Are you telling me you want to walk this path for her sake? Hannah nodded, and Gwen let out a tired sigh. Then no longer a princess will you be, she said. If it means that much to you, then open your panel and navigate to the social tabs. There, you will find a subsection for titles.

Hannah trembled as she opened her panel following Gwen's instruction. Breanne attempted to protest again, but Gwen ordered her to be silent. Hannah was told how to open her status as a princess and see all the perks and advantages. She could see Gwen listed as her mother, but beside it was a button to make changes. A quick tap and she had the option to adjudicate, giving up all she had and her status as a princess in the kingdom.

I love you, Quinny, Hannah said as she tapped the button, and nothing happened. What? Hannah said as she pushed it again. It's not working.

No, it worked exactly as it should, Gwen said as she held out her hand, and her kingdom heart appeared in her palm. You can't just give up a position like that so easily. All you did was send a request to me stating you wanted to end our relationship. When you became my full daughter and a princess of my line, I gained the final say in whether or not you could throw that away, and I refuse to allow it.

Please! Hannah begged. Oh, Gwen, I dont need the title or the data in my panel to see you as my mother. I know you are my mother in my heart, and that means more than any silly line of text.

I agree, Gwen said as she started to smile. My silver princess.

Silver princess? Hannah replied as she looked to Breanne, who could only shrug.

Yes, Gwen replied as she opened her interface and canceled Hannahs request. She then tapped a few lines, and Hannah began to glow with a silver light.

What are you doing? Hannah asked as she looked at her hands.

Promoting you, Gwen replied. As is my right as the Queen and by my level of power. Once a rulership class reaches a certain threshold, they can name a single person as their avatar. They can choose whatever name they wish, but I have chosen the name of Silver Princess.

What do you mean by Avatar? Hannah asked, as she didn't understand what was happening. What was Gwen doing, and why did she seem so delighted? What is going on?

You have proven you are worthy, Gwen replied. Worthy to be my daughter, my champion, and so much more. For your act of selfless love and desire to cherish your family, I am naming you my avatar. You will have a full kingdom heart and the right to sit on my throne with the same level of authority as myself, Gwen replied. I am also deeply moved that you didn't care about the title or the powers when it came to see me as your mother. All you really wanted was me.

Hannah was speechless as Gwen dubbed her the silver princess, and a rush of power filled her body. She floated into the air as her skin tingled, then dropped to her feet a moment later.

What did you do to me? Hannah gasped as she curled her hands, feeling odd strength.

You now share my power, Gwen said as she stared into Hannah's eyes. And I have a confession to make.

About what? Hannah gasped as she reeled over what just happened.

I lied about the marriage thing. The system doesn't care if you are sisters. It will marry you anyway.

You lied to me! Hannah gasped. I tried to give away everything to make her happy, and I didn't have to?

It was a test, Gwen countered. I wanted to see how badly you truly desired me to be this girl's mother. I needed to see how far you would go to love her, and I am most pleased with my daughter. I never dreamed I would find somebody I trust with my power as I do you.

I I dont know what to say? Hannah replied as Gwen took her hand.

Say that you will always cherish being my daughter, Gwen replied.

Mother, I never wanted this, Hannah insisted. I wasn't trying to prove myself. I just wanted to take this pain away from Quinny.

That is exactly why you are worthy of it, Gwen replied. Because you didn't think for an instant what you could gain from this. All you cared about was ending the woman's tears. Now, she began and grabbed Hannah by the wrist. Let's go see to ending those tears. She tugged Hannah along as Breanne watched them go, unable to react to what had just happened.

Hannah was twisting with excitement when Gwen through open Quinny's door to find the woman half-dressed with new tears in her eyes. She looked up in shock and asked Hannah if she had told Gwen, and Hannah had to admit she had.

I dont want people to feel sorry for me, Quinny sobbed and went to throw herself on the bed when Gwen caught her wrist.

I wont have that kind of behavior from either of my daughters, Gwen scolded. Now stand up straight and listen well.

Hannah bounced as Quinny did as she was told, looking like a lost lamb. Gwen made a very matter-of-fact announcement that Quinny was being inducted into her bloodline as a full daughter. From this day forward, Gwen was her mother and would be forever more.

I'm what? Quinny gasped and looked at Hannah, who nodded it was true. Hannah could see the sparkle in Quinny's eyes when Gwen told her that she expected Quinny to behave as a princess should. She presented Quinny with a lesser kingdom heart and then worked the magic that bound Quinny to her as a full-blooded daughter. The final moment came when Gwen produced a small crystal tiara to be Quinny's crown and placed it on the woman's head. Quinny fell to her knees sobbing, and Hannah had to run to her side, holding her tight until Mother came to the rescue.

Now, child, Gwen said soothingly as she scooped Quinny up and sat on the bed with Quinny in her lap. You cry as much as you need. I will hold you until you feel better.

Quinny did just that as Gwen smiled, holding her little girl to keep her safe. Hannah was overcome with joy for the wounded woman and sat on the bed beside them. Quinny couldn't get control of herself as Gwen went on to tell her about her new role as a daughter. She would be doted on and mothered until she grew sick of it, and then it would only have begun. Hannah laughed as Gwen promised to meddle in her life and give her unsolicited advice about her choices.

But most of all, Gwen said as she spoke softly. I am here when you need me. I am here when all you need is your mother's warm embrace and a kiss to remind you that I love you.

The sobs renewed as Gwen began to rock, humming softly as if to soothe a child. Why don't you go and find the others, Gwen told Hannah. Take them to the gardens for lunch while your sister and I have a little time to ourselves.

Of course, mother, Hannah said as she got up. She kissed Quinny on the back of her head and headed off, feeling better about it all. Gisley had her little fairies, and Quinny had a mother, making both women ecstatically happy. Soon, they would all be married and share a family made stronger and stronger by love. Hannah considered if New Eden was a prison or perhaps her own personal Heaven where love and family ruled over all.