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                    TRIGGER WARNING! THIS WORK CONTAINS VIOLENCE, BLOOD, AND SEXUAL CONTENT!

  Her gaze flitted over the field of flowers. Each blossom swayed in the wind and fluttered against her gray skirt. White lisianthus. Uncommon for them to grow in such a place. She bent down and touched the stem of one. Snapping it, she examined the flower. She placed it near her nose and sniffed. No scent but that absence made her smile. Flowers were not her favorite things but she could appreciate the subtlety of this one.

     “Morrigan, what are you doing over there?”

Morrrigan turned and spotted her aunt watching her. She threw the flower on the ground and shrugged, “Nothing, just saw this field of flowers and I got distracted.”

  Elizabeth frowned slightly, looking at Morrigan’s form to find any faults, “Well let’s hurry on. We’re already late.”

  Morrigan nodded her head and followed her aunt through the massive building. The white columns and bare walls passed by them as multiple nuns greeted them.

      “Good day Lady Phantomhive,” one nun spoke quietly, bowing her head slightly.

  Her aunt responded back with a smile and kept going. Morrigan looked at the floor, her hands clasped tightly together. She didn’t utter a word until they reached a pair of double doors. Elizabeth opened the door and the silence descended. Inside were two women. One of them was dressed in dark robes that nearly reached the floor and looked somewhere in her thirties. The other had similar clothes but a large headdress was framing her wizened face. The older one smiled.

      “Welcome, Lady Phantomhive. We are happy to have you here. Did your travels exhaust you?”

  Elizabeth shook her head, “Not at all, Abbess. I am sorry we were late, the carriage had some trouble going up the mountain.”

      “Nonsense, we hadn’t started yet,” the Abbess said. She focused her gaze on Morrigan, “And this must be Morrigan.”

          “Yes, this is her. I am afraid the others won’t be joining us today.”

      “That is fine, we can always schedule another time. Now come, let us begin.”

  Elizabeth and Morrigan followed the women to another part of the building. All the while, Morrigan bit her lip. Two weeks ago, her aunt came into her room discussing visiting the convent and she invited the triplets to join her. Only Morrigan was the only one to attend considering Merle’s hatred of being outside of the house and Rabanus giving a plausible excuse. What I wouldn’t do to be in my lab away from this mess. Morrigan glanced at the paintings of religious figures. The young woman sighed as she found herself in front of a different set of doors. The Abbess nodded and the other woman, most likely the prioress, opened the doors. The room inside had a high ceiling and a statue of a woman. Morrigan was unsure of who the woman was but judging by how stiff and silent the chamber was, she assumed it was someone important. Isn’t this blasphemy? I am the child of a demon after all. And yet, Morrigan did not set ablaze or keel over choking up blood. Nothing happened. The Abbess gestured to the statue.

      “We must begin our prayers. Please, bow your heads.”

  Elizabeth knelt down on her knees and clasped her hands in front of her. Morrigan followed suit, although she glanced around. No one else was in the room. Must be a fairly private spot. The silence continued as the four women became entangled in their prayers. Well, three women. Morrigan simply closed her eyes and thought about her predicament. The silence stretched on. Five minutes…ten…twenty...Just as Morrigan felt like her knees were going to start bleeding from kneeling down so much, Elizabeth finally whispered a soft amen and lifted her head. The women got up from their position and Morrigan winced at the tense feel of her muscles contracting. At the behest of the prioress, they left the chamber and followed the Abbess as she spoke.

      “You may join us for supper at the refectory later. I will have the nuns alert you when it is time. For now, you are free to explore the grounds. I do ask that you refrain from going into the rooms east of the building. They are not for public use,” she explained.

          “Thank you, Abbess, we will be careful.”

  The Abbess nodded and paused. Looking at Elizabeth and Morrigan, she smiled, “Well, Lady Phantomhive, Lady Melodia, I will leave you be. Please, if you have any questions you may ask me or Prioress Abigail whenever you like.”

  Abigail nodded and Elizabeth smiled, “We will, thank you.”

  And with that, the two women left Morrigan and her aunt alone. Morrigan let out a sigh and groaned, “How long will this last?”

      “We’ll be leaving tomorrow morning. You remember the orders from her Majesty, yes?” Elizabeth asked her.

  Morrigan nodded, “Yes, I remember them. No need to worry.”

      “Good, take some time to explore this place. Try to stay discreet.”

  Morrigan gave a wry smile before Elizabeth turned and walked away. Left to her own devices, Morrigan looked around herself. Well, I should start by placing a few toys around. She lifted her skirt a bit and ink-black feathers rustled toward the ground. Stirring with the wind, the feathers floated in the air and scattered throughout the place. Morrigan’s eyes lowered as she felt the feathers settle into different places in the convent. Great, that should be an adequate start. Morrigan let go of her skirt and looked at the setting sun.

      “Maybe there’s a place to sit and rest somewhere.”

  She turned and walked around the building. Leaving the quiet area, she soon rejoined the other inhabitants of the place. The nuns did not speak to her as she passed but Morrigan was glad for that. She was in no mood to talk or socialize. Stepping around a sharp corner, she froze. She had found herself in a back area, barely anything there except a few benches and barrels. An overview of the mountain could be seen, daring and gorgeous with the cliffs and faint view of a town close by. Perfect. Morrigan took a seat on one of the benches and winced when she saw a cloud of dust raise up. Aunt Elizabeth will not be happy when she notices my dress. Dusting off as much as she could, Morrigan eyed the scenery. Here, she could not hear the rustling of cloth as the people moved about. All she could hear was the winds rustle and her own soft breathing. Closing her eyes, she let herself relax. In the midst of her trance, she could not hear the footsteps getting closer. A soft gasp prompted Morrigan to snap open her eyes in alert. Casting her tranquility aside, she looked around for the source. Soon, she found what she was looking for. A few feet away from her, coming through a heavy wooden door, was a young woman. She looked to be the same age as Morrigan. Her pale skin was covered in the same cloth as the other nuns. The only thing Morrigan could discern was golden hair framing her soft face. The woman bowed her head.

      “I’m sorry! I did not know someone was already here. Please excuse me.”

  Her voice was quiet and Morrigan strained to hear her. Her eyes looked upwards towards the rafter, where a single black feather lay nestled between the supports. Closing her eyes, she saw images flash by quickly before she finally relaxed. It seems she just stumbled here. Morrigan let out a polite smile, “No, the fault is mine. I did not know that this area was off limits.”

      “It’s not, just not many people visit here,” the woman clarified.

          “Really? How so, it’s very beautiful,” Morrigan asked.

      “The area is close to the mountain’s edge so the prioress instructed us to not get so close.”

  Morrigan looked at the edge. True enough, if someone tripped, they would plummet to their demise in an instant. That is if they’re not speared by the jagged rocks beforehand. She looked back at the woman, “Then, why are you here?”

  The woman seemed flustered at that and she scratched the back of her head, “....I come back here every so often. Just to…relax,” her eyes looked nervously at Morrigan.

  Blinking, Morrigan tilted her head. Why is she looking at me like that? After a silent pause, she finally understood what the girl was trying to convey, “I see, no worries I won’t tell anyone about you being here.”

  The woman smiled and bowed again, “Thank you so much, Miss…”

      “Morrigan. Morrigan Melodia. I'm going to stay here tonight with my aunt.”

          “Yes, all of the convent was informed of your stay here Lady Melodia,” the girl said.

      “Please, call me Morrigan. We are close in age and I am not one for titles,” Morrigan gestured to the girl, “And your name?”

  The young woman lifted her head and Morrigan could clearly see her eyes. They were a soft amber color, like liquid gold smelting in a forge. The girl smiled brightly.

          “My name is Cosima.”

                                                                                            #

  Cosima was an orphan who was brought to the convent at the young age of four. She knew nothing but the nunnery and its environment. She was very much a sheltered girl, wide-eyed and naive. Anything Morrigan told her, rather it was about her studies or her siblings, she devoured like a snake engulfing its prey. The first night, they talked and talked and talked until the moon edged its way to the sky. Morrigan could not remember the last time she conversed with someone at such length. Someone who was outside her family. So, when Elizabeth told her she was staying there for a few more nights, Morrigan had no complaints. The second night, Morrigan and Cosima snuck out of the nunnery to watch the fireflies circle around the hill, enjoying some watered down wine and sweets in the silence of the night. Every night was another moment the two would share and Morrigan found herself enjoying them. On the sixth night, Morrigan was in her room reading a book she stowed into her luggage. She had stripped out of her skirt and blouse, leaving her only in her corset, drawers, and undergarments. In the light of the candlestick lantern near her, her fushia eyes seemed to glow. She was just getting absorbed in a particular passage when a soft knock resounded on her door. Lifting her head, her eyes narrowed. The pupils pulsed as a red glow flickered into them. Within minutes, she saw the entirety of the nunnery from the kitchen to the prayer rooms. She even saw the outside of her door and the person standing there. Cosima? What is she doing up so late? There was another knock before Cosima spoke out.

      “Morrigan? Are you still up?”

          “Yes, give me one moment.”

Morrigan placed her book down and went to the door. Releasing the simple latch keeping her safe, she opened it to see Cosima. She was in her nightgown, the long sleeved garment doing nothing to stop her from shivering in the chill of the night. She noticed Morrigan’s appearance and Morrigan watched her golden eyes widen a bit.

      “What is the matter? Why are you here so late?” Morrigan questioned, letting her into her room, “You know the prioress would punish you severely for being out past curfew.”

          “I know, I know, I just…” Cosima paced around Morrigan’s room, a wave of anxiety washing off her.

  Morrigan watched her, her eyes tracking her every movement. There doesn’t appear to be any wounds on her and she doesn’t seem frightened. If anything she seems…anxious. Morrigan sighed and plopped down into a chair next to a side table.

      “I can’t help you if you don’t tell me what’s bothering you.”

  Cosima stopped pacing and looked at Morrigan. She fiddled with her hands and slowly came to sit in the chair opposite Morrigan. Morrigan waited as the girl composed herself. Whatever she has to say, I can see it’s weighing down on her. Morrigan looked at the partial moon as Cosima gathered her thoughts.

      “…Tomorrow is the last day you’re here,” Cosima finally stated.

  Morrigan turned, her eyebrow rose, “Yes, it is. Come tomorrow night, I’ll be returning home. No doubt my siblings will be very excited to see me again.”

          “You must miss them dearly,” Cosima stated.

  Morrigan snorted, “Hardly, my siblings are hard to miss and even harder to want to be around. Especially Rabanus,” Morrigan noticed the nervous way Cosima carded her fingers, “…what does my departure have to do with your worry?”

  Cosima looked out the one window Morrigan had. At the silent night and the moon, “…Do you have to go?”

  Morrigan furrowed her brows, “What? What do you mean?”

      “Can’t you stay another night? Or even a few more days.”

          “I’m afraid that’s impossible. My uncle will be worried and my mother-!”

          “Please!”

  Morrigan froze at the desperate tone in Cosima’s voice. Her golden hair was fluttering around her shoulders and only then did Morrigan notice her shoulders were shaking. She heard a sniffle and grimaced. Was she…crying? Morrigan arose from her seat and walked to Cosima.

      “I don’t understand? Why do you want me to stay? Is something wrong?” She bent down to be eye level with Cosima and tried to see her face. But Cosima’s hair blocked any attempts she made, “Is there something wrong with the nunnery?” A few seconds and Cosima shook her head. Morrigan tried again, “The prioress ?” Another shake. Morrigan bit her lip. Her heart was beating in her chest. I knew this church was up to something shady but I found no evidence the young people were involved. I’ve only found evidence of the higher-ups involvement. She closed her eyes and let out a breath before whispering, “Is it…the Abbess?”

  Cosima’s head shot up, her golden eyes were wide and soft with tears. It made Morrigan’s heart clench. Cosima blinked, “The…Abbess? What do you….?”

  Morrigan noticed the confusion in her face and quickly changed topics. She stood up quickly and walked to her bedside, “Nothing! I just thought you were feeling overwhelmed or something. If it’s not that, what is it?”

  Morrigan flipped through her drawers, looking for a handkerchief. She heard Cosima stand up but didn’t bother turning around.

          “It’s….it’s you…”

  Morrigan didn’t quite hear her as her voice was low, “What? Could you please repeat that?”

  She finally found her handkerchief and stood up and was turning around when she felt arms encircle her. Caught off guard, she stumbled back into her drawer, the small of her back aching in pain. Cosima had buried her face in Morrigan’s stomach, her arms snaked around her waist in a tight embrace.

      “It is you! I do not wish to see you go,” She was crying now and Morrigan’s head was spinning from the sudden outburst. She patted Cosima’s arms, trying to calm her down.

          “Cosima, I won’t be gone forever. I will visit-!”

  “You don’t understand! You have been a dear friend to me, maybe the only one I have here. You taught me about your life and the world outside of these walls. You introduced me to things I’ve only heard about. You were patient with me and never mentioned your status or power with me,” Cosima raised her head and her golden eyes were sparkling, “You are very important to me. More than I knew possible. More than I…than I can handle.”

  Morrigan’s eyes were wide. Her head was muddled with Cosima’s words and her arms and the steady press of her chest on her. She could smell the scent of violets from somewhere but she was far too troubled to find where, “Cosima….what are you saying?”

  Cosima’s lips parted slightly as she examined Morrigan’s face. Her black hair that ran in waves to her back like the night itself. Her eyes resembling the amethysts she saw some nobles who visited the convent adorned with. Her lips were tinted pink from her constant chewing. Before either her or Morrigan truly knew what happened, Cosima leaned forward and pressed her lips to Morrigan’s. Morrigan’s eyes widened and she reached her hand behind her to brace herself from falling over. Cosima’s lips were soft and pliable and she could taste the lingering cheese from dinner. But Morrigan could not register what was happening, how it came to this. It seemed Cosima realized what she did because she backed away harshly, robbing Morrigan of her warmth.

      “I’m sorry! I’m so sorry, please forgive me!” Cosima turned away from Morrigan and covered her face, “That was improper of me! I should not have…I should have…I am sorry!”

  Morrigan touched her cheek. Her face was burning and her lips were tingling and her head was buzzing. She felt dizzy and intrigued and perplexed and hungry. What had she eaten for dinner? The same as Cosima? Did she also taste like cheese and honey? Her mind was reeling but her hands were already begging to be engulfed by someone. She looked at Cosima who refused to turn back to her.

      “Cosima,” No answer, “Cosima…why did you do that?”

  Cosima didn’t give her an answer. Morrigan was a reasonable person. She worked through every puzzle, rhyme, and equation with grace and poise. That’s why she was entrusted as the Queen’s dog. That’s why she was known as the Prima Donna of England. She was young but quick as a whip. And she knew how to handle everything. Atleast, she thought she did. She stepped towards Cosima.

      “Please, I need an answer. A hint…something.”

  Cosima still refused her. Morrigan placed her hands softly on her shoulders, her head leaning against the back of Cosima’s. This was wild. It was wild and untamed and dangerous. Morrigan should have backed away but she didn’t.

      “Cosima…what do you want from me?”

  At this, Cosima turned around. She looked up at Morrigan and reached a hand to her cheek. Morrigan felt herself lean into it, “…You. I want you.”

Morrigan’s eyes snapped open and Cosima noticed the glow of them. She had no time to question it as Morrigan pressed her lips to hers harshly. Cosima could not find a purchase like Morrigan so she tumbled to the bed. Her golden hair spread about her like a halo but all she could notice was Morrigan’s hands cupping her face. Their bodies pressed against each other in ways Cosima knew were not allowed here. But it made her feel oh so good, sin be damned. When Morrigan pulled back, her eyes roamed Cosima’s face.

      “I…I can’t,” She pressed another kiss to Cosima’s lips, “I can’t describe what I’m feeling. It’s uncomfortable and warm and tingly and excitable.”

  Cosima smiled warmly and grasped Morrigan’s hand, “I know…I feel it too.”

      “Then tell me. Tell me what do I do with this feeling?”

  Cosima sat up and wrapped her arms around Morrigan’s neck. She whispered in Morrigan’s ear and Morrigan shivered painfully, “Let it go. Whatever it is.”

  She pushed against Morrigan and their positions switched. Morrigan stared owlishly up at Cosima. And notice that she was breathtakingly beautiful. Of course she already had noticed how lovely the girl was but this was different. Cosima looked ethereal outlined by the moon. She looked like a goddess. And Morrigan should know, she was one. She watched as Cosima reached for her nightgown and pulled it off her. Exposing her pale body, Morrigan noticed the way her skin seemed to shimmer with the glow. Cosima placed her hands over Morrigan’s corset, where her bosom threatened to spill.

      “We can lose it together. Discover it, like we’ve done before,” Cosima explained.

  Morrigan nodded and Cosima reached for her hands, pulling her up. She kissed Morrigan as she circled behind her back and removed the strings of the corset. Morrigan ran her hands over Cosima’s pale skin. It was warm and soft like everything else about her. Soon, Morrigan felt the bone-sucking release of her corset. Then the rest of her clothes followed suit. They fell back into the bed and Cosima gazed at her from above. Her eyes held something Morrigan couldn’t identify and she reminded herself to research it later.

      “When I met you…I thought you were a goddess. Now…I am sure of it,” Cosima whispered.

  Morrigan smirked weakly, “Should you be saying that? Isn’t there only one God for you?”

  Cosima kissed her cheek, “Perhaps…but you certainly seem like someone to worship as well.”

  Before Morrigan could ask her to clarify, she gasped as Cosima placed a kiss near her heartbeat. She felt elevated. How could anyone invoke such a feeling from her? Nothing and nobody could compare to this feeling. And it just kept building and building. Indeed, as Cosima had said, she felt like she was being worshiped. Like a new religion was going to form simply from her uttered phrases. A prayer, a hymn. Maybe she was the religious type. At some point, her devotion turned to Cosima’s. And then Morrigan’s. And then vice versa. It was cyclical and followed the moon into the early hours of dawn. When Morrigan finally paused her invocations, she was tired and hot. Cosima was cuddled into her shoulder, her golden hair ticking Morrigan’s cheek. Morrigan etched her face into her memory. She pressed a kiss to Cosima’s forehead and looked out the window. I wonder how Rabanus would react to this?

                                                                                                  #

  Morrigan placed the last of her things into her luggage. Looking at the book, she grimaced. It took everything in her not to send word to her aunt to forgo the departure. To spend a few more days here. But she knew that was impossible. If I don’t come home…they would ask questions and worry. I can’t worry them, especially not Mother. Morrigan sighed and closed her luggage. She picked up her things and left the room. The convent was quiet today. Well, it was almost dinner time. The nuns are probably still doing their chores or rounds. It didn’t matter. All that mattered was one person. Well, three actually. She had to say her goodbyes to the prioress and the Abbess. It might be the last one they get. Making her way down the hallway, her heels clicked loudly on the stone walkways. Now, where could they be? Morrigan walked towards the space she knew to be the Abbess’ office. Knocking on the door, she called out.

      “Abbess? It’s Lady Melodia,” No answer. Morrigan frowned, “Abbess? Are you here?”

  Still no answer. She could be walking around but let’s make sure. Placing her hand on the door knob, Morrigan felt a surge of energy release from her palm and the door clicked open. Slipping inside the room, she looked around. It was fairly simple, with only an old wooden desk and chair, a small table the Abbess used for entertaining guests, and a bookcase. But no Abbess. Not here… Morrigan looked around the room. She wasn’t looking for anything particular, she had already combed this space for any information she could find. She looked at the opposite wall and noticed a few framed pictures. Getting closer, she examined one of them. It seemed to be a portrait of the convent. It must have been taken a few years ago, judging by the lack of stress lines the prioress had. Morrigan scanned the picture. Must be a special occasion for them. I guess this place would have some good memories before all this started. She furrowed her brows.

      “Huh? Why don’t I recognize Cosima anywhere in this picture?”

  As she stated, Morrigan could not notice the blonde girl anywhere in the frame. Morrigan frowned and walked away. Maybe she wasn’t able to attend the picture day. Walking out of the office, she walked towards the entrance of the convent. . Well maybe they’re praying in that one room from before. It seemed like their personal room. I wish I hadn’t collected my feathers earlier. Then, I’d be able to find them. Sighing, Morrigan walked towards the room. The sun was starting to set and Morrigan glanced at it. The carriage should arrive just before sundown. Hopefully, I can wrap this up by then. She walked down the empty halls. Still, where has everyone gone? Please don’t tell me they’re planning a surprise farewell or something. That’ll be dreadful. Morrigan shook with unease as she reached the room. Pushing open the door, she called out.

      “Abbess?”

  Inside looked the same as before. With the high ceilings and paintings. The large statue of the woman was there but instead of the Abbess in front of it, Morrigan froze to see Cosima kneeling in front of it. When she heard Morrigan come in, she quickly stood up and turned to her.

      “I’m sorry. I thought the Abbess would be here,” Morrigan apologized.

  Cosima smiled at her, “The Abbess is handling something right now. She should be done momentarily. Did you need her for something?”

  Cosima’s eyes lingered down to Morrigan’s luggage and her smile faltered. Morrigan looked away, “…I wanted to say goodbye.”

          “I see…”

Morrigan could feel the tension in the air. Placing her luggage down, she walked up to Cosima and wrapped her arms around her waist. The blonde woman yelped as Morrigan pulled her in for a kiss.

          “I won’t be gone for long. I’ll write you letters. As much as I can. Okay?” Morrigan reassured her.

  Cosima gave her another kiss, “I understand. I will wait for them.”

  They stayed together for a while, enjoying each other’s scent and presence. Before Cosima pulled away.

          “Since you’re here, let’s have one last drink?”

Morrigan raised an eyebrow and looked around, “Here? Are you sure?”

  Cosima gave a mischievous smile and walked to the stained glass windows, “Yes, here.”

  She bent down and Morrigan watched as she shifted a wooden board and gathered an object wrapped in cloth. Morrigan chuckled, “When did you hide that here? Why did you hide that here?”

  Cosima shrugged, “I figured I use it on one of the many four-hour prayer sessions we have. Take the mind off of the silence.”

  “Four hours? I’m glad I was never subjected to that here,” Morrigan responded as she watched Cosima unwrap the cloth to reveal the wine bottle underneath.

  Cosima untwisted the corkscrew and gave a grin at the satisfactory sound when it popped off, “We try not to scare our guests away. Well….almost. You still need to do afternoon lessons.”

Morrigan winced playfully at that “Ugh, don’t remind me. I think I won’t forget those boring lectures anytime soon.”

  Cosima sat on a window ledge and patted the space beside her. Morrigan caught her meaning and sat down next to her. Cosima looked out at the falling sun.

          “…I’m going to miss you,” she stated.

  Morrigan smiled wistfully, “And I you. But I’ll be back. And when I’m back, I’m taking you from here.”

  Cosima’s eyes twinkled at that, “You will?”

      “I will and I’ll take you back to the mansion. I’ll introduce you to my family. My uncle will be shocked but he’ll support us. My siblings would tease you but that’s only because they’re protective.”

  Cosima smiled at that, “….and you mom? How would she react?”

  Morrigan’s smile faltered and she reached for the bottle. Cosima handed it to her. Morrigan rubbed her thumbs over the glass container, “…she won’t say much. Maybe she’ll smile. Maybe not. But she’ll be there and that’s enough for me.”

  Cosima said nothing as Morrigan took a swig of the wine. It was bitter and made Morrigan cough as it went down. Cosima looked out the window again.

      “…There’s a patch of white lisianthus growing nearby,” Cosima stated.

Morrigan nodded, “I know. I noticed them when I first arrived here.”

      “Do you know what the meaning of the word is?”

  Morrigan racked her brain. Of course she knew. Her mother had told her what they meant long ago. But before she could say what it was, a burning sensation surged up her throat. Morrigan hacked and coughed as her throat set ablaze. Standing up from the ledge, she grasped her neck and dry heaved. What? What was happening? The pain was unbearable and felt like someone had jammed a sword through her esophagus. Her eyes filled with tears and she stumbled to the floor. She could hear Cosima still talking but it was muffled.

      “It’s from two Greek words; ‘lysis’ and ‘anthos,’” Morrigan fell to the ground, choking and heaving.

          “Co-!” She tried to say Cosima’s name but she realized nothing was coming out. Her throat felt like it was closing up on her. Sweat pooled near her forehead at the intensity.

      “Anthos means flower. And lysis means dissolution,” Cosima left her seat and walked to Morrigan.

  Morrigan struggled to look up and her heart froze. Cosima’s face was eerily calm as she watched Morrigan struggle in agony. What- what’s happening? Morrigan reached for Cosima and the woman took her hand.

      “You see Morrigan, I haven’t been too honest with you. There are some things I haven’t told you.”

  Morrigan felt Cosima’s grip on her hand tightened and she winced.

      “The first one, there was lye in that wine,” Cosima revealed calmly, letting go of Morrigan’s hand and standing up.

Lye? Morrigan’s eyes widened. She struggled to stand up but the minute she pushed herself to a sitting position, she coughed and blood erupted from her mouth. Lye! Why would-? What’s happening? Her chest heaved and her breath ragged, Morrigan looked up at Cosima through her hair. She mouthed something, desperate to get her words across. But it was silent.

      “Second, the Abbess and prioress aren’t the ones you’re looking for. I am,” at Morrigan’s confused expression, Cosima tilted her head, “Surely you didn’t think those two could pull off an operation this big. They know nothing about politics. Or business.”

  Morrigan coughed up some more blood. Her vision was getting blurry but she kept her gaze on Cosima. Her lips moved fervently, trying to say something. Anything! Cosima noticed her words right away.

      “Why? Why what?” Cosima walked over Morrigan’s hand, “Why did I do this? Why did I poison you? I think the question you should be asking isn’t why but what. What am I?”

  Morrigan could feel her strength waning but she tried desperately to keep her eyes trained on Cosima. What she is? She watched as the mood shifted. Something…something was wrong. The hairs on the back of her neck rose and Morrigan felt like vomiting whatever was left in her system. Her eyes glowed as she searched frantically for whatever it was that felt wrong. What is that? Why does it feel so aggravating? She realized the emotion was close. Close to her. Close to Cosima.

      “Yes, you feel it too. The universe’s little warning,” Cosima stated.

Morrigan watched in horror as Cosima shifted. Her golden hair grew longer, her ears shaped themselves into points. Something golden emerged from underneath her bangs, stretching and coiling towards the sky before settling around her head. As that happened, her skin slipped into a pattern of gold and wonder. Something long and thin manifested behind her and Morrigan would have screeched if she could as a tail wrapped around Cosima’s legs. And lastly, the thing that took Morrigna’s attention the most, two pairs of delicately translucent gold wings fluttered from Cosima’s back. With her transformation complete, Cosima watched Morrigan with her eyes devoid of any humanity. Nothing but golden peace came from them. And those eyes told Morrigan what she needed to know. She bared her teeth and scrambled to get further away. But the poison in her veins stopped her and she groaned as another wave of blood surged up.

      “Yes, you know what I am. I see the descendent of Chaos did not neglect on telling you of me,” Cosima stated.

  Morrigan glared at her, purple eyes filled with unadulterated hatred. How could she not see it! How could she not sense it! Why hadn’t I noticed that one of the descendants of Cosmos was here! Morrigan felt ashamed at being bested by her mortal enemy but with the pain coursing through her, she could only shake with rage.

      “I knew who you were the moment you set foot in here. And I also knew what I had to do,” Cosima walked closer to her, her golden claws scraping the surface, “It was easy. Almost too easy. You are only a part of Chaos, not the full piece. That made you weak, unable to see through my disguise. So it made it easy to slip into your perspective,” Cosima bent close to Morrigan and reached out. Morrigan flinched as Cosima took her chin in her hand, “To keep your attention on me, while I wrapped things up here. It was the perfect plan. And now, I only need to finish one step.”

  She let go of Morrigan’s chin and walked towards the statue. In her haze, Morrigan could see it. The resemblance. It’s her, the statue is of her. Cosima gazes at the roof.

      “You will die here. Despite being a demon, you are also mixed with human blood. You can feel it burning through your veins eating away at you,” Cosima turned to Morrigan, “A pity, I thought you’d be more. The great daughter of the Raven and the Chaotic Entity. But…you aren’t.”

  Morrigan blocked out her voice, trying desperately to regain some strength. Anything. Her veins were alight as she tried to summon her power, her strength. But every movement was torture and her body shook with the effort. Come on, come on! Her last attempt took so much out of her that she felt something pop and she silently screamed. Crumbling to the floor, she felt tears sliding down her face as her vision darkened and her body conversed. No. No! Cosima watched her struggle before turning around.

      “…Goodbye Morrigan. We will not meet again.”

  She walked away as Morrigan fought to keep herself conscious. To be alive. Left alone on that floor, surrounded by her blood and convulsing with every turn or breath, Morrigan thought about her time here. How stupid she was. I was such a fool. I should have paid more attention, been more on guard. Now, I will die for my actions. She thought of Cosima’s kisses and the passion from last night. The tears came harder now. Stupid, stupid, fool, you FOOL! There was nothing there! It was all lies! You were played. She took everything from you. Morrigan closed her eyes as another wave of pain crashed into her. I will die before getting back at her. I will die before saying goodbye to my family. Ciel, Elizabeth, Rabanus, Merle…Mother. Something scratched into the back of her neck. Something insistent and hungry. She knew what it was. Morrigan looked at the ceiling. There was nothing but darkness to be seen but she reached out anyway. No…no please no! Please, not like this! But it was no use. With one last agonizing, nerve-searing pain, she lost it. She could feel her body shifting, changing. Her skin was melting off as a familiar energy warped around her. Black feathers erupted from her mouth and torso, covered in blood. As she felt wings unfurl against her, she whispered one last prayer before falling into the depths of darkness.

                                                                                                    #

Will I ever stop torturing my characters? Nope. Anyway, Morrigan was lucky after this event. She did not die, by some grace of life. Instead, her vocal cords were severely damaged to the point of not being usable. However, Morrigan can still speak. When she learned of her daughter’s misfortune, Muse had a favor cashed in to allow Morrigan to use a special magic that allowed her to talk so long as she wore a special necklace. If Morrigan ever lost that necklace or it broke, she would not be able to speak. Morrigan felt truly ashamed of herself for making such a mistake and retaliated rather violently. Her ‘experiments’ grew harsher, more depraved as she wallowed in her own misfortune. Not only that, she become detached to her own humanity and has a very empirical look on things. In other words, she’s miserable. She sees others as potential subjects for her experiments and nothing more. The only comfort she gets is her siblings. Regarding Cosima and her role as a descendent of Cosmos, more will be explored later.

Base by TFAfangirl14
Morrigan and Cosima belong to me
Grim Tales by bleedman
Character adopted from rika-dono www.deviantart.com/rika-dono

Description
                    TRIGGER WARNING! THIS WORK CONTAINS VIOLENCE, BLOOD, AND SEXUAL CONTENT!

  Her gaze flitted over the field of flowers. Each blossom swayed in the wind and fluttered against her gray skirt. White lisianthus. Uncommon for them to grow in such a place. She bent down and touched the stem of one. Snapping it, she examined the flower. She placed it near her nose and sniffed. No scent but that absence made her smile. Flowers were not her favorite things but she could appreciate the subtlety of this one.

     “Morrigan, what are you doing over there?”

Morrrigan turned and spotted her aunt watching her. She threw the flower on the ground and shrugged, “Nothing, just saw this field of flowers and I got distracted.”

  Elizabeth frowned slightly, looking at Morrigan’s form to find any faults, “Well let’s hurry on. We’re already late.”

  Morrigan nodded her head and followed her aunt through the massive building. The white columns and bare walls passed by them as multiple nuns greeted them.

      “Good day Lady Phantomhive,” one nun spoke quietly, bowing her head slightly.

  Her aunt responded back with a smile and kept going. Morrigan looked at the floor, her hands clasped tightly together. She didn’t utter a word until they reached a pair of double doors. Elizabeth opened the door and the silence descended. Inside were two women. One of them was dressed in dark robes that nearly reached the floor and looked somewhere in her thirties. The other had similar clothes but a large headdress was framing her wizened face. The older one smiled.

      “Welcome, Lady Phantomhive. We are happy to have you here. Did your travels exhaust you?”

  Elizabeth shook her head, “Not at all, Abbess. I am sorry we were late, the carriage had some trouble going up the mountain.”

      “Nonsense, we hadn’t started yet,” the Abbess said. She focused her gaze on Morrigan, “And this must be Morrigan.”

          “Yes, this is her. I am afraid the others won’t be joining us today.”

      “That is fine, we can always schedule another time. Now come, let us begin.”

  Elizabeth and Morrigan followed the women to another part of the building. All the while, Morrigan bit her lip. Two weeks ago, her aunt came into her room discussing visiting the convent and she invited the triplets to join her. Only Morrigan was the only one to attend considering Merle’s hatred of being outside of the house and Rabanus giving a plausible excuse. What I wouldn’t do to be in my lab away from this mess. Morrigan glanced at the paintings of religious figures. The young woman sighed as she found herself in front of a different set of doors. The Abbess nodded and the other woman, most likely the prioress, opened the doors. The room inside had a high ceiling and a statue of a woman. Morrigan was unsure of who the woman was but judging by how stiff and silent the chamber was, she assumed it was someone important. Isn’t this blasphemy? I am the child of a demon after all. And yet, Morrigan did not set ablaze or keel over choking up blood. Nothing happened. The Abbess gestured to the statue.

      “We must begin our prayers. Please, bow your heads.”

  Elizabeth knelt down on her knees and clasped her hands in front of her. Morrigan followed suit, although she glanced around. No one else was in the room. Must be a fairly private spot. The silence continued as the four women became entangled in their prayers. Well, three women. Morrigan simply closed her eyes and thought about her predicament. The silence stretched on. Five minutes…ten…twenty...Just as Morrigan felt like her knees were going to start bleeding from kneeling down so much, Elizabeth finally whispered a soft amen and lifted her head. The women got up from their position and Morrigan winced at the tense feel of her muscles contracting. At the behest of the prioress, they left the chamber and followed the Abbess as she spoke.

      “You may join us for supper at the refectory later. I will have the nuns alert you when it is time. For now, you are free to explore the grounds. I do ask that you refrain from going into the rooms east of the building. They are not for public use,” she explained.

          “Thank you, Abbess, we will be careful.”

  The Abbess nodded and paused. Looking at Elizabeth and Morrigan, she smiled, “Well, Lady Phantomhive, Lady Melodia, I will leave you be. Please, if you have any questions you may ask me or Prioress Abigail whenever you like.”

  Abigail nodded and Elizabeth smiled, “We will, thank you.”

  And with that, the two women left Morrigan and her aunt alone. Morrigan let out a sigh and groaned, “How long will this last?”

      “We’ll be leaving tomorrow morning. You remember the orders from her Majesty, yes?” Elizabeth asked her.

  Morrigan nodded, “Yes, I remember them. No need to worry.”

      “Good, take some time to explore this place. Try to stay discreet.”

  Morrigan gave a wry smile before Elizabeth turned and walked away. Left to her own devices, Morrigan looked around herself. Well, I should start by placing a few toys around. She lifted her skirt a bit and ink-black feathers rustled toward the ground. Stirring with the wind, the feathers floated in the air and scattered throughout the place. Morrigan’s eyes lowered as she felt the feathers settle into different places in the convent. Great, that should be an adequate start. Morrigan let go of her skirt and looked at the setting sun.

      “Maybe there’s a place to sit and rest somewhere.”

  She turned and walked around the building. Leaving the quiet area, she soon rejoined the other inhabitants of the place. The nuns did not speak to her as she passed but Morrigan was glad for that. She was in no mood to talk or socialize. Stepping around a sharp corner, she froze. She had found herself in a back area, barely anything there except a few benches and barrels. An overview of the mountain could be seen, daring and gorgeous with the cliffs and faint view of a town close by. Perfect. Morrigan took a seat on one of the benches and winced when she saw a cloud of dust raise up. Aunt Elizabeth will not be happy when she notices my dress. Dusting off as much as she could, Morrigan eyed the scenery. Here, she could not hear the rustling of cloth as the people moved about. All she could hear was the winds rustle and her own soft breathing. Closing her eyes, she let herself relax. In the midst of her trance, she could not hear the footsteps getting closer. A soft gasp prompted Morrigan to snap open her eyes in alert. Casting her tranquility aside, she looked around for the source. Soon, she found what she was looking for. A few feet away from her, coming through a heavy wooden door, was a young woman. She looked to be the same age as Morrigan. Her pale skin was covered in the same cloth as the other nuns. The only thing Morrigan could discern was golden hair framing her soft face. The woman bowed her head.

      “I’m sorry! I did not know someone was already here. Please excuse me.”

  Her voice was quiet and Morrigan strained to hear her. Her eyes looked upwards towards the rafter, where a single black feather lay nestled between the supports. Closing her eyes, she saw images flash by quickly before she finally relaxed. It seems she just stumbled here. Morrigan let out a polite smile, “No, the fault is mine. I did not know that this area was off limits.”

      “It’s not, just not many people visit here,” the woman clarified.

          “Really? How so, it’s very beautiful,” Morrigan asked.

      “The area is close to the mountain’s edge so the prioress instructed us to not get so close.”

  Morrigan looked at the edge. True enough, if someone tripped, they would plummet to their demise in an instant. That is if they’re not speared by the jagged rocks beforehand. She looked back at the woman, “Then, why are you here?”

  The woman seemed flustered at that and she scratched the back of her head, “....I come back here every so often. Just to…relax,” her eyes looked nervously at Morrigan.

  Blinking, Morrigan tilted her head. Why is she looking at me like that? After a silent pause, she finally understood what the girl was trying to convey, “I see, no worries I won’t tell anyone about you being here.”

  The woman smiled and bowed again, “Thank you so much, Miss…”

      “Morrigan. Morrigan Melodia. I'm going to stay here tonight with my aunt.”

          “Yes, all of the convent was informed of your stay here Lady Melodia,” the girl said.

      “Please, call me Morrigan. We are close in age and I am not one for titles,” Morrigan gestured to the girl, “And your name?”

  The young woman lifted her head and Morrigan could clearly see her eyes. They were a soft amber color, like liquid gold smelting in a forge. The girl smiled brightly.

          “My name is Cosima.”

                                                                                            #

  Cosima was an orphan who was brought to the convent at the young age of four. She knew nothing but the nunnery and its environment. She was very much a sheltered girl, wide-eyed and naive. Anything Morrigan told her, rather it was about her studies or her siblings, she devoured like a snake engulfing its prey. The first night, they talked and talked and talked until the moon edged its way to the sky. Morrigan could not remember the last time she conversed with someone at such length. Someone who was outside her family. So, when Elizabeth told her she was staying there for a few more nights, Morrigan had no complaints. The second night, Morrigan and Cosima snuck out of the nunnery to watch the fireflies circle around the hill, enjoying some watered down wine and sweets in the silence of the night. Every night was another moment the two would share and Morrigan found herself enjoying them. On the sixth night, Morrigan was in her room reading a book she stowed into her luggage. She had stripped out of her skirt and blouse, leaving her only in her corset, drawers, and undergarments. In the light of the candlestick lantern near her, her fushia eyes seemed to glow. She was just getting absorbed in a particular passage when a soft knock resounded on her door. Lifting her head, her eyes narrowed. The pupils pulsed as a red glow flickered into them. Within minutes, she saw the entirety of the nunnery from the kitchen to the prayer rooms. She even saw the outside of her door and the person standing there. Cosima? What is she doing up so late? There was another knock before Cosima spoke out.

      “Morrigan? Are you still up?”

          “Yes, give me one moment.”

Morrigan placed her book down and went to the door. Releasing the simple latch keeping her safe, she opened it to see Cosima. She was in her nightgown, the long sleeved garment doing nothing to stop her from shivering in the chill of the night. She noticed Morrigan’s appearance and Morrigan watched her golden eyes widen a bit.

      “What is the matter? Why are you here so late?” Morrigan questioned, letting her into her room, “You know the prioress would punish you severely for being out past curfew.”

          “I know, I know, I just…” Cosima paced around Morrigan’s room, a wave of anxiety washing off her.

  Morrigan watched her, her eyes tracking her every movement. There doesn’t appear to be any wounds on her and she doesn’t seem frightened. If anything she seems…anxious. Morrigan sighed and plopped down into a chair next to a side table.

      “I can’t help you if you don’t tell me what’s bothering you.”

  Cosima stopped pacing and looked at Morrigan. She fiddled with her hands and slowly came to sit in the chair opposite Morrigan. Morrigan waited as the girl composed herself. Whatever she has to say, I can see it’s weighing down on her. Morrigan looked at the partial moon as Cosima gathered her thoughts.

      “…Tomorrow is the last day you’re here,” Cosima finally stated.

  Morrigan turned, her eyebrow rose, “Yes, it is. Come tomorrow night, I’ll be returning home. No doubt my siblings will be very excited to see me again.”

          “You must miss them dearly,” Cosima stated.

  Morrigan snorted, “Hardly, my siblings are hard to miss and even harder to want to be around. Especially Rabanus,” Morrigan noticed the nervous way Cosima carded her fingers, “…what does my departure have to do with your worry?”

  Cosima looked out the one window Morrigan had. At the silent night and the moon, “…Do you have to go?”

  Morrigan furrowed her brows, “What? What do you mean?”

      “Can’t you stay another night? Or even a few more days.”

          “I’m afraid that’s impossible. My uncle will be worried and my mother-!”

          “Please!”

  Morrigan froze at the desperate tone in Cosima’s voice. Her golden hair was fluttering around her shoulders and only then did Morrigan notice her shoulders were shaking. She heard a sniffle and grimaced. Was she…crying? Morrigan arose from her seat and walked to Cosima.

      “I don’t understand? Why do you want me to stay? Is something wrong?” She bent down to be eye level with Cosima and tried to see her face. But Cosima’s hair blocked any attempts she made, “Is there something wrong with the nunnery?” A few seconds and Cosima shook her head. Morrigan tried again, “The prioress ?” Another shake. Morrigan bit her lip. Her heart was beating in her chest. I knew this church was up to something shady but I found no evidence the young people were involved. I’ve only found evidence of the higher-ups involvement. She closed her eyes and let out a breath before whispering, “Is it…the Abbess?”

  Cosima’s head shot up, her golden eyes were wide and soft with tears. It made Morrigan’s heart clench. Cosima blinked, “The…Abbess? What do you….?”

  Morrigan noticed the confusion in her face and quickly changed topics. She stood up quickly and walked to her bedside, “Nothing! I just thought you were feeling overwhelmed or something. If it’s not that, what is it?”

  Morrigan flipped through her drawers, looking for a handkerchief. She heard Cosima stand up but didn’t bother turning around.

          “It’s….it’s you…”

  Morrigan didn’t quite hear her as her voice was low, “What? Could you please repeat that?”

  She finally found her handkerchief and stood up and was turning around when she felt arms encircle her. Caught off guard, she stumbled back into her drawer, the small of her back aching in pain. Cosima had buried her face in Morrigan’s stomach, her arms snaked around her waist in a tight embrace.

      “It is you! I do not wish to see you go,” She was crying now and Morrigan’s head was spinning from the sudden outburst. She patted Cosima’s arms, trying to calm her down.

          “Cosima, I won’t be gone forever. I will visit-!”

  “You don’t understand! You have been a dear friend to me, maybe the only one I have here. You taught me about your life and the world outside of these walls. You introduced me to things I’ve only heard about. You were patient with me and never mentioned your status or power with me,” Cosima raised her head and her golden eyes were sparkling, “You are very important to me. More than I knew possible. More than I…than I can handle.”

  Morrigan’s eyes were wide. Her head was muddled with Cosima’s words and her arms and the steady press of her chest on her. She could smell the scent of violets from somewhere but she was far too troubled to find where, “Cosima….what are you saying?”

  Cosima’s lips parted slightly as she examined Morrigan’s face. Her black hair that ran in waves to her back like the night itself. Her eyes resembling the amethysts she saw some nobles who visited the convent adorned with. Her lips were tinted pink from her constant chewing. Before either her or Morrigan truly knew what happened, Cosima leaned forward and pressed her lips to Morrigan’s. Morrigan’s eyes widened and she reached her hand behind her to brace herself from falling over. Cosima’s lips were soft and pliable and she could taste the lingering cheese from dinner. But Morrigan could not register what was happening, how it came to this. It seemed Cosima realized what she did because she backed away harshly, robbing Morrigan of her warmth.

      “I’m sorry! I’m so sorry, please forgive me!” Cosima turned away from Morrigan and covered her face, “That was improper of me! I should not have…I should have…I am sorry!”

  Morrigan touched her cheek. Her face was burning and her lips were tingling and her head was buzzing. She felt dizzy and intrigued and perplexed and hungry. What had she eaten for dinner? The same as Cosima? Did she also taste like cheese and honey? Her mind was reeling but her hands were already begging to be engulfed by someone. She looked at Cosima who refused to turn back to her.

      “Cosima,” No answer, “Cosima…why did you do that?”

  Cosima didn’t give her an answer. Morrigan was a reasonable person. She worked through every puzzle, rhyme, and equation with grace and poise. That’s why she was entrusted as the Queen’s dog. That’s why she was known as the Prima Donna of England. She was young but quick as a whip. And she knew how to handle everything. Atleast, she thought she did. She stepped towards Cosima.

      “Please, I need an answer. A hint…something.”

  Cosima still refused her. Morrigan placed her hands softly on her shoulders, her head leaning against the back of Cosima’s. This was wild. It was wild and untamed and dangerous. Morrigan should have backed away but she didn’t.

      “Cosima…what do you want from me?”

  At this, Cosima turned around. She looked up at Morrigan and reached a hand to her cheek. Morrigan felt herself lean into it, “…You. I want you.”

Morrigan’s eyes snapped open and Cosima noticed the glow of them. She had no time to question it as Morrigan pressed her lips to hers harshly. Cosima could not find a purchase like Morrigan so she tumbled to the bed. Her golden hair spread about her like a halo but all she could notice was Morrigan’s hands cupping her face. Their bodies pressed against each other in ways Cosima knew were not allowed here. But it made her feel oh so good, sin be damned. When Morrigan pulled back, her eyes roamed Cosima’s face.

      “I…I can’t,” She pressed another kiss to Cosima’s lips, “I can’t describe what I’m feeling. It’s uncomfortable and warm and tingly and excitable.”

  Cosima smiled warmly and grasped Morrigan’s hand, “I know…I feel it too.”

      “Then tell me. Tell me what do I do with this feeling?”

  Cosima sat up and wrapped her arms around Morrigan’s neck. She whispered in Morrigan’s ear and Morrigan shivered painfully, “Let it go. Whatever it is.”

  She pushed against Morrigan and their positions switched. Morrigan stared owlishly up at Cosima. And notice that she was breathtakingly beautiful. Of course she already had noticed how lovely the girl was but this was different. Cosima looked ethereal outlined by the moon. She looked like a goddess. And Morrigan should know, she was one. She watched as Cosima reached for her nightgown and pulled it off her. Exposing her pale body, Morrigan noticed the way her skin seemed to shimmer with the glow. Cosima placed her hands over Morrigan’s corset, where her bosom threatened to spill.

      “We can lose it together. Discover it, like we’ve done before,” Cosima explained.

  Morrigan nodded and Cosima reached for her hands, pulling her up. She kissed Morrigan as she circled behind her back and removed the strings of the corset. Morrigan ran her hands over Cosima’s pale skin. It was warm and soft like everything else about her. Soon, Morrigan felt the bone-sucking release of her corset. Then the rest of her clothes followed suit. They fell back into the bed and Cosima gazed at her from above. Her eyes held something Morrigan couldn’t identify and she reminded herself to research it later.

      “When I met you…I thought you were a goddess. Now…I am sure of it,” Cosima whispered.

  Morrigan smirked weakly, “Should you be saying that? Isn’t there only one God for you?”

  Cosima kissed her cheek, “Perhaps…but you certainly seem like someone to worship as well.”

  Before Morrigan could ask her to clarify, she gasped as Cosima placed a kiss near her heartbeat. She felt elevated. How could anyone invoke such a feeling from her? Nothing and nobody could compare to this feeling. And it just kept building and building. Indeed, as Cosima had said, she felt like she was being worshiped. Like a new religion was going to form simply from her uttered phrases. A prayer, a hymn. Maybe she was the religious type. At some point, her devotion turned to Cosima’s. And then Morrigan’s. And then vice versa. It was cyclical and followed the moon into the early hours of dawn. When Morrigan finally paused her invocations, she was tired and hot. Cosima was cuddled into her shoulder, her golden hair ticking Morrigan’s cheek. Morrigan etched her face into her memory. She pressed a kiss to Cosima’s forehead and looked out the window. I wonder how Rabanus would react to this?

                                                                                                  #

  Morrigan placed the last of her things into her luggage. Looking at the book, she grimaced. It took everything in her not to send word to her aunt to forgo the departure. To spend a few more days here. But she knew that was impossible. If I don’t come home…they would ask questions and worry. I can’t worry them, especially not Mother. Morrigan sighed and closed her luggage. She picked up her things and left the room. The convent was quiet today. Well, it was almost dinner time. The nuns are probably still doing their chores or rounds. It didn’t matter. All that mattered was one person. Well, three actually. She had to say her goodbyes to the prioress and the Abbess. It might be the last one they get. Making her way down the hallway, her heels clicked loudly on the stone walkways. Now, where could they be? Morrigan walked towards the space she knew to be the Abbess’ office. Knocking on the door, she called out.

      “Abbess? It’s Lady Melodia,” No answer. Morrigan frowned, “Abbess? Are you here?”

  Still no answer. She could be walking around but let’s make sure. Placing her hand on the door knob, Morrigan felt a surge of energy release from her palm and the door clicked open. Slipping inside the room, she looked around. It was fairly simple, with only an old wooden desk and chair, a small table the Abbess used for entertaining guests, and a bookcase. But no Abbess. Not here… Morrigan looked around the room. She wasn’t looking for anything particular, she had already combed this space for any information she could find. She looked at the opposite wall and noticed a few framed pictures. Getting closer, she examined one of them. It seemed to be a portrait of the convent. It must have been taken a few years ago, judging by the lack of stress lines the prioress had. Morrigan scanned the picture. Must be a special occasion for them. I guess this place would have some good memories before all this started. She furrowed her brows.

      “Huh? Why don’t I recognize Cosima anywhere in this picture?”

  As she stated, Morrigan could not notice the blonde girl anywhere in the frame. Morrigan frowned and walked away. Maybe she wasn’t able to attend the picture day. Walking out of the office, she walked towards the entrance of the convent. . Well maybe they’re praying in that one room from before. It seemed like their personal room. I wish I hadn’t collected my feathers earlier. Then, I’d be able to find them. Sighing, Morrigan walked towards the room. The sun was starting to set and Morrigan glanced at it. The carriage should arrive just before sundown. Hopefully, I can wrap this up by then. She walked down the empty halls. Still, where has everyone gone? Please don’t tell me they’re planning a surprise farewell or something. That’ll be dreadful. Morrigan shook with unease as she reached the room. Pushing open the door, she called out.

      “Abbess?”

  Inside looked the same as before. With the high ceilings and paintings. The large statue of the woman was there but instead of the Abbess in front of it, Morrigan froze to see Cosima kneeling in front of it. When she heard Morrigan come in, she quickly stood up and turned to her.

      “I’m sorry. I thought the Abbess would be here,” Morrigan apologized.

  Cosima smiled at her, “The Abbess is handling something right now. She should be done momentarily. Did you need her for something?”

  Cosima’s eyes lingered down to Morrigan’s luggage and her smile faltered. Morrigan looked away, “…I wanted to say goodbye.”

          “I see…”

Morrigan could feel the tension in the air. Placing her luggage down, she walked up to Cosima and wrapped her arms around her waist. The blonde woman yelped as Morrigan pulled her in for a kiss.

          “I won’t be gone for long. I’ll write you letters. As much as I can. Okay?” Morrigan reassured her.

  Cosima gave her another kiss, “I understand. I will wait for them.”

  They stayed together for a while, enjoying each other’s scent and presence. Before Cosima pulled away.

          “Since you’re here, let’s have one last drink?”

Morrigan raised an eyebrow and looked around, “Here? Are you sure?”

  Cosima gave a mischievous smile and walked to the stained glass windows, “Yes, here.”

  She bent down and Morrigan watched as she shifted a wooden board and gathered an object wrapped in cloth. Morrigan chuckled, “When did you hide that here? Why did you hide that here?”

  Cosima shrugged, “I figured I use it on one of the many four-hour prayer sessions we have. Take the mind off of the silence.”

  “Four hours? I’m glad I was never subjected to that here,” Morrigan responded as she watched Cosima unwrap the cloth to reveal the wine bottle underneath.

  Cosima untwisted the corkscrew and gave a grin at the satisfactory sound when it popped off, “We try not to scare our guests away. Well….almost. You still need to do afternoon lessons.”

Morrigan winced playfully at that “Ugh, don’t remind me. I think I won’t forget those boring lectures anytime soon.”

  Cosima sat on a window ledge and patted the space beside her. Morrigan caught her meaning and sat down next to her. Cosima looked out at the falling sun.

          “…I’m going to miss you,” she stated.

  Morrigan smiled wistfully, “And I you. But I’ll be back. And when I’m back, I’m taking you from here.”

  Cosima’s eyes twinkled at that, “You will?”

      “I will and I’ll take you back to the mansion. I’ll introduce you to my family. My uncle will be shocked but he’ll support us. My siblings would tease you but that’s only because they’re protective.”

  Cosima smiled at that, “….and you mom? How would she react?”

  Morrigan’s smile faltered and she reached for the bottle. Cosima handed it to her. Morrigan rubbed her thumbs over the glass container, “…she won’t say much. Maybe she’ll smile. Maybe not. But she’ll be there and that’s enough for me.”

  Cosima said nothing as Morrigan took a swig of the wine. It was bitter and made Morrigan cough as it went down. Cosima looked out the window again.

      “…There’s a patch of white lisianthus growing nearby,” Cosima stated.

Morrigan nodded, “I know. I noticed them when I first arrived here.”

      “Do you know what the meaning of the word is?”

  Morrigan racked her brain. Of course she knew. Her mother had told her what they meant long ago. But before she could say what it was, a burning sensation surged up her throat. Morrigan hacked and coughed as her throat set ablaze. Standing up from the ledge, she grasped her neck and dry heaved. What? What was happening? The pain was unbearable and felt like someone had jammed a sword through her esophagus. Her eyes filled with tears and she stumbled to the floor. She could hear Cosima still talking but it was muffled.

      “It’s from two Greek words; ‘lysis’ and ‘anthos,’” Morrigan fell to the ground, choking and heaving.

          “Co-!” She tried to say Cosima’s name but she realized nothing was coming out. Her throat felt like it was closing up on her. Sweat pooled near her forehead at the intensity.

      “Anthos means flower. And lysis means dissolution,” Cosima left her seat and walked to Morrigan.

  Morrigan struggled to look up and her heart froze. Cosima’s face was eerily calm as she watched Morrigan struggle in agony. What- what’s happening? Morrigan reached for Cosima and the woman took her hand.

      “You see Morrigan, I haven’t been too honest with you. There are some things I haven’t told you.”

  Morrigan felt Cosima’s grip on her hand tightened and she winced.

      “The first one, there was lye in that wine,” Cosima revealed calmly, letting go of Morrigan’s hand and standing up.

Lye? Morrigan’s eyes widened. She struggled to stand up but the minute she pushed herself to a sitting position, she coughed and blood erupted from her mouth. Lye! Why would-? What’s happening? Her chest heaved and her breath ragged, Morrigan looked up at Cosima through her hair. She mouthed something, desperate to get her words across. But it was silent.

      “Second, the Abbess and prioress aren’t the ones you’re looking for. I am,” at Morrigan’s confused expression, Cosima tilted her head, “Surely you didn’t think those two could pull off an operation this big. They know nothing about politics. Or business.”

  Morrigan coughed up some more blood. Her vision was getting blurry but she kept her gaze on Cosima. Her lips moved fervently, trying to say something. Anything! Cosima noticed her words right away.

      “Why? Why what?” Cosima walked over Morrigan’s hand, “Why did I do this? Why did I poison you? I think the question you should be asking isn’t why but what. What am I?”

  Morrigan could feel her strength waning but she tried desperately to keep her eyes trained on Cosima. What she is? She watched as the mood shifted. Something…something was wrong. The hairs on the back of her neck rose and Morrigan felt like vomiting whatever was left in her system. Her eyes glowed as she searched frantically for whatever it was that felt wrong. What is that? Why does it feel so aggravating? She realized the emotion was close. Close to her. Close to Cosima.

      “Yes, you feel it too. The universe’s little warning,” Cosima stated.

Morrigan watched in horror as Cosima shifted. Her golden hair grew longer, her ears shaped themselves into points. Something golden emerged from underneath her bangs, stretching and coiling towards the sky before settling around her head. As that happened, her skin slipped into a pattern of gold and wonder. Something long and thin manifested behind her and Morrigan would have screeched if she could as a tail wrapped around Cosima’s legs. And lastly, the thing that took Morrigna’s attention the most, two pairs of delicately translucent gold wings fluttered from Cosima’s back. With her transformation complete, Cosima watched Morrigan with her eyes devoid of any humanity. Nothing but golden peace came from them. And those eyes told Morrigan what she needed to know. She bared her teeth and scrambled to get further away. But the poison in her veins stopped her and she groaned as another wave of blood surged up.

      “Yes, you know what I am. I see the descendent of Chaos did not neglect on telling you of me,” Cosima stated.

  Morrigan glared at her, purple eyes filled with unadulterated hatred. How could she not see it! How could she not sense it! Why hadn’t I noticed that one of the descendants of Cosmos was here! Morrigan felt ashamed at being bested by her mortal enemy but with the pain coursing through her, she could only shake with rage.

      “I knew who you were the moment you set foot in here. And I also knew what I had to do,” Cosima walked closer to her, her golden claws scraping the surface, “It was easy. Almost too easy. You are only a part of Chaos, not the full piece. That made you weak, unable to see through my disguise. So it made it easy to slip into your perspective,” Cosima bent close to Morrigan and reached out. Morrigan flinched as Cosima took her chin in her hand, “To keep your attention on me, while I wrapped things up here. It was the perfect plan. And now, I only need to finish one step.”

  She let go of Morrigan’s chin and walked towards the statue. In her haze, Morrigan could see it. The resemblance. It’s her, the statue is of her. Cosima gazes at the roof.

      “You will die here. Despite being a demon, you are also mixed with human blood. You can feel it burning through your veins eating away at you,” Cosima turned to Morrigan, “A pity, I thought you’d be more. The great daughter of the Raven and the Chaotic Entity. But…you aren’t.”

  Morrigan blocked out her voice, trying desperately to regain some strength. Anything. Her veins were alight as she tried to summon her power, her strength. But every movement was torture and her body shook with the effort. Come on, come on! Her last attempt took so much out of her that she felt something pop and she silently screamed. Crumbling to the floor, she felt tears sliding down her face as her vision darkened and her body conversed. No. No! Cosima watched her struggle before turning around.

      “…Goodbye Morrigan. We will not meet again.”

  She walked away as Morrigan fought to keep herself conscious. To be alive. Left alone on that floor, surrounded by her blood and convulsing with every turn or breath, Morrigan thought about her time here. How stupid she was. I was such a fool. I should have paid more attention, been more on guard. Now, I will die for my actions. She thought of Cosima’s kisses and the passion from last night. The tears came harder now. Stupid, stupid, fool, you FOOL! There was nothing there! It was all lies! You were played. She took everything from you. Morrigan closed her eyes as another wave of pain crashed into her. I will die before getting back at her. I will die before saying goodbye to my family. Ciel, Elizabeth, Rabanus, Merle…Mother. Something scratched into the back of her neck. Something insistent and hungry. She knew what it was. Morrigan looked at the ceiling. There was nothing but darkness to be seen but she reached out anyway. No…no please no! Please, not like this! But it was no use. With one last agonizing, nerve-searing pain, she lost it. She could feel her body shifting, changing. Her skin was melting off as a familiar energy warped around her. Black feathers erupted from her mouth and torso, covered in blood. As she felt wings unfurl against her, she whispered one last prayer before falling into the depths of darkness.

                                                                                                    #

Will I ever stop torturing my characters? Nope. Anyway, Morrigan was lucky after this event. She did not die, by some grace of life. Instead, her vocal cords were severely damaged to the point of not being usable. However, Morrigan can still speak. When she learned of her daughter’s misfortune, Muse had a favor cashed in to allow Morrigan to use a special magic that allowed her to talk so long as she wore a special necklace. If Morrigan ever lost that necklace or it broke, she would not be able to speak. Morrigan felt truly ashamed of herself for making such a mistake and retaliated rather violently. Her ‘experiments’ grew harsher, more depraved as she wallowed in her own misfortune. Not only that, she become detached to her own humanity and has a very empirical look on things. In other words, she’s miserable. She sees others as potential subjects for her experiments and nothing more. The only comfort she gets is her siblings. Regarding Cosima and her role as a descendent of Cosmos, more will be explored later.

Base by TFAfangirl14
Morrigan and Cosima belong to me
Grim Tales by bleedman
Character adopted from rika-dono www.deviantart.com/rika-dono