Chapter 44. Three Blind Witches
"Where exactly is this temple?" Luna Catherine asked, a hint of worry crossing her features. "I remember hearing about it... They say unimaginable powers reside there. Do you know anyone there?"
Jackson let out a heavy sigh.
"It’s not about knowing someone there, Catherine... I am the king of that place. I’m always welcome, even though I haven’t set foot there in over fifteen years. Still, if it means keeping Maria safe, I’ll do whatever it takes."
"But you know..." Catherine hesitated, glancing toward the door instinctively, "you’ve never told Maria about herself—what she really is, and what she represents."
"I know," Jackson said heavily. "I just don’t think she’s ready yet. She’s still so young. I don’t want to burden her with truths she can’t handle."
His face dulled with worry as he ran a hand through his hair.
"There are things happening now... and things that will happen soon. Telling her everything at once would be too much for her mind to process. But I have recorded every secret, every important detail in a large book—a book meant for her alone. When she’s grown enough, she’ll either hear it from me... or read it herself."
Catherine nodded slowly, though her heart ached for their daughter.
"I understand you... But Jackson," she whispered, "why must it be our daughter that carries such a heavy burden?"
Jackson reached out and took her hands in his.
"The wheels don’t choose their path, my love. They follow the will of the rider. If the spirits have chosen Maria for something greater, who are we to question it? We should be thankful—this is an opportunity for our family to help rewrite destiny."