Page 74 of Dark Moon Secrets

I wasn’t sure I liked having such an ability. But what really was this ability? I shifted on the bed, sitting back on the pillows.

Maria’s form shimmered a ghostly white near the end of my bed. A cold seeped into my bones, and I pulled the covers higher over me.

Are you a ghost?

Maria nodded. Sort of.

Why haven’t you shown yourself to me before?

You had to know you were a witch first. She floated in the air, keeping a distance from me.

I’ve known for a few days now, why did you take so long?

I didn’t want to interfere with your training.

Tell me the truth. I fired up blue magical flames in my fingers, constructing a spell that would break a ghost into thousands of pieces.

Maria’s eyes widened, and her form shrunk.

I had to be sure you would come here, stay, and that you would go ahead with your initiation.

Could it be true? A lot of things were happening in a short period. Now she was here before me—this was a chance to get information. I let the flames reabsorb back into my fingers.

Are you saying I can communicate with the dead? I asked.

A chuckle echoed in my head, and her form disappeared.

Must have been a tick of the light?

You’re clever, and yes, I’m a ghost. I have to stay.

Don’t stay on account of me.

A long pause made me think she had gone. A cold breath went over my face.

I can’t leave, not yet.

What did I know about ghosts? Not much. Wasn’t there something about unfinished business? Then I got it.

You can’t because of me. Not until… I paused. What exactly was it that I had to do?

Find yourself as a witch.

Doing that. I was only going to accept the truth. No more lies.

My job was to ensure you completed your initiation.

So why didn’t you? Why aren’t you here?

I failed.

A sadness weighed heavily in my mind, spreading down to my chest.

Just do what you’re told for the initiation, and everything will be all right.

And if I don’t?

It’s not just your future that will be affected, but also the coven, other magical beasts, and even humans. You just need to get through this night, the ceremony tomorrow night, and then things will become easier. I promise.

---