Elizabeth Ann

Was it just my imagination or was the voice awfully familiar to me?

But, Bethany?

Who is she?

Why do I keep on hearing her name?

I shook my head and ran to my bedroom. I am very much eager to know what the letter says especially what the book is all about!

I kept my door closed and locked so that no one can enter it. I know that Tita Tammy is a witch and can appear any time inside this room but for some unknown reason, I feel most secure inside my own bedroom.

Like, it will always be my sanctuary. My haven of peace.

I immediately searched for the beige note and unfolded it.

I frowned when it was completely blank.

I unconsciously bit my fingernails as I studied the paper. It wouldn't be addressed to me for nothing. Especially with my parents both having powers unknown to the ordinary eyes of the public.

And then, somebody hissed at me,

Verba coram me

I turned in an attempt to see who it was or might think of showing itself to me but to no avail.

I found myself uttering those words and I blinked when the letters started forming and I chanted them again as to what the voice had said.

Verba coram me

Verba coram me

Verba coram me

It was on the fifth chant when the whole text appeared and I gasped to see from who was the letter from.

It was from Dad!

Dear Liz,

By the time you read this, the warlocks must have gotten to us.
Sadness and confusion will surround you as you try to understand and learn about the extent of your powers.

We are witches. We have these binding spells to protect ourselves from those who wanted to take them from us. We also have our guardians who will guide us as we came to know our full capabilities.

Now, you might be asking, what will they want from you?

You are the five hundredth generation of the Cornwells. Our ancestors ranked the highest and is highly favored by the magistrate because of our powers distinct to our own.

The book of incantations will tell you more about our history and some useful spells for your safety.

And one more thing, never trust anyone who comes close to you.

Only trust your instincts and follow your heart.

Love,

DAD

I was shaking when my eyes travelled to his last sentences. He said to never trust anyone.

Does that include Tita Tammy?

Do I follow my instincts this time?

Or should I just play along?

But she is good to me!

Imposible!

I didn't realize that I had been clenching the paper with my fist until it made a sound.

What about that voice?

Who was it?

Is it my guardian?

Papaano ko malalaman at makikilala ang guardian ko?

Should I risk myself in danger just to know who my guardian is?

Ang gulo!!

I just wished that someone will be here to guide me.

Then, as if on cue, the book sparkled like Dahlia and Safhira did when they were using their powers to direct me to a place I intend to go.

Old and gray

Will never go astray.

The preface of the book says.

But on the outside, it appears as a typical hardbound novel being printed in the publishing houses.

No one can guess that it is actually a book of spells. Of incantations and history.

I shook my head and went to my bed, carrying the book with me as I began to learn about our family history.