Dusk lingered longer than the drive. Not that Ruby cared, since Or comforted with her presence. Not even the bumpy shuffling along dipidated roads broke through Ruby’s haze. But time came rushing the through awareness when Or pulled her car and guided Ruby outside.

  A daunting path surrounded by tree foliage guided their approach. They passed through bck iron gates. Those would be none descriptive if it weren’t for a surreal and eerie aura that permeated the perimeter. Yet, when Or offered her palm, Ruby let her essence settle, not because of dread. She did it because it was Or. And she trusted.

  Cool mist drifted through their stride, drenching them through its sensation. It contained no bitterness, only a surreal and elusive allure. Soft buzzes carried faint crackling tones. To Ruby’s senses, they formed shapes. Of shadows within shadows. They spoke in soft whispers. Of welcoming promises within long waited embraces.

  Then Or lent her arm. Her gentle pull filled Ruby’s steps. Ruby readily accepted.

  Not much distance remained. A faint water ripple reverberated through wind whispers. Those aided Ruby’s steps.

  “Sweetie, come closer.” Or leaned to adjust the brooch holding her official cloak. Her breath coaguted into mist. They caressed Ruby before disappearing. “Wear it with pride. Those are a symbol of our family.”

  Elegant and subtly fttering, dark green cloak accentuated Ruby’s frame. They made her deep mahogany locks tumble over her shoulder with a softened glow. Those thin fabrics provided generous sensuality through their bearing.

  Ruby recognised hints along Or’s care-giving attention. How her palms lingered deliberately while they grazed the skin of her neck. Her fingers csped the brooch, but the back of her hands relished in the contact with her pulse.

  Only the sheer sensuality of Or haunted her thoughts. Ruby tried setting them aside. Those were incongruent with her current state. Or took her directly to her penthouse after her work. Not enough time for anything except change into a knee-length midi dress. Hardly the appropriate choice for an outside wilderness weather. Still, Or dominated her thoughts.

  Ciming her as her daughter did not dissipate those feelings. In fact, they became more abstract. More intangible.

  “Where are we?” Ruby mustered even as her subconscious seemed unsettled by Or’s care.

  “The ceremonial pools.” Or let her fingers ruffle through Ruby’s hair, seemingly adjusting them for no apparent reason except she felt like doing it. “Be brave and clear your mind.”

  Dense canopy spread along crisscrossing branches overhead, and Or led. Her grip contained an unassuming warmth. Hints barely filtered through thickly dense vegetation. An opening among trees revealed marble statues, depicting figures shrouded through verdant lushness. Those statues lined along, forming natural walls, supporting greenery through intricate decorations. They seemed like the sort found through museums; elegant despite their decrepit exterior. And it led towards a glistening pool, illuminated through silvery luminescence.

  Everything about the pool enticed Ruby. Not because it dispyed wealth, nor because it exuded serenity. Her gaze lingered towards its smooth edges. It carried opulent yers, draped through an ethereal mist. An elysian glow danced along pping ripples.

  Kelly’s bare feet rested on carved steps.

  “There you are. Our brave little witch.” Kelly greeted as she sauntered towards them. “Honey, everything may seem overwhelming. The emotional surges may burn through your core. I know because I passed through it. We all did.”

  Ruby inhaled deeply. A vain attempt to calm her nerves. In the dreamy ndscape, even her breaths carried a strange foreign resonance.

  “But trust us.” Or embraced. Her palms rested along Ruby’s waist. “And trust yourself. You may come out changed. Fear not the change.”

  Kelly circled behind. “Ruby, will you trust us both to guide you through? The path may seem daunting, but with the guidance of experienced hands, they will become beautiful.”

  Or’s hand reached for the insides of her cloak, while Kelly reached for the brooch from behind. Both soon gently peeled Ruby’s cloak through their flimsy resistance, leaving her exposed. Then, her dress pooled to the forested floor. Only her slips remained, wedging against her folds. That provided slight reassurance, though it posed little defence against Or and Kelly’s touch.

  That became evident when Or’s palms glided along her bare shoulders, meeting her chest. With a feather-light touch, Or undid her slip, discarding them carelessly.

  “Let us start the preparation for the ritual.” Kelly swirled Ruby to face her.

  Ruby gravitated towards Kelly, obeying her firm tug. But soon she became focused. Kelly’s palms barely skimmed along her outer thighs to follow her inner contours. They delved towards her heaving chest, tracing her skin till they met her plump mounds. The circur movement traced their shape. Her deft fingers made Ruby’s twitching nipples stiffen. She reacted through rapid huffs. And released mewls.

  Then Or stood behind her, moulding her palms along Ruby’s breasts. Her possessive grip freed every struggle. Or groped. She kneaded. Or must have coated her palms with some fresh fragrant oil since they gleamed along Ruby’s skin, adding viscous fluidity.

  Kelly murmured incantations. Her hands trailed along Ruby’s hips. Then they drew slow concentric circles. Those moved through her soft belly. And traced her chest.

  Soon, Kelly’s voice melded along Or’s chant. Then her palms caressed Ruby’s inner thighs. Ruby added her moans.

  Ruby unduted, seeking release. But Or provided none. Not when she pressed her body. Ruby may strain her neck, squirming, panting, heaving her breasts, mewling. Yet Or restrained her. There was strength in her gentle hold.

  The unfulfilled promise drove her desperate. She attempted insinuating. Or refused.

  “Hold still honey.” Kelly, who stood in front of her, ordered without any weight of command in her tone. Only understanding and caress ced her words. “I need you not squirming while I trace these patterns.”

  Ruby mumbled nonsensical and incoherent pleas. All failed. Simply impossible when Or, stepmom Or, beefy, dommy Valkyrie Or, arrested her movements effortlessly with her graceful grasp. And Kelly worked over her hips and waist. All sensitive parts received devoted attention.

  “Sweetie, I know this is all...” Or’s deliberate pause made Ruby ache. She need her voice entering her ears while her fingers explored arcane curves on her nipples. “...difficult for you. But the ceremony cannot be tainted. Clear your thoughts Ruby. The ceremonial pool cannot be defiled.”

  Those were Or’s words. But Or’s relentless massaging still tortured her. Her fingers toyed along her mounds, alternating between her hardened peaks. They caressed her curves, eliciting muffled mewls through parted lips.

  Ruby’s senses were already consumed. But Or rejected her core’s demands. Ruby attempted retaliating. She can shuffle her hips. She can writhe. But Or dominated her. Ruby may succumb, showing her acquiescence through desiring lips. But Or never answered her.

  Instead, Kelly parted her legs, lending them support through her knee. They weaved between Ruby’s legs. She opened her further.

  “Oh, she is wet.” Kelly smacked her lips. “So wet. Is our little witch getting excited?”

  Then Or cimed Ruby’s earlobe with her tracing fingertips. She released them, only so she may pce a soothing kiss. Then Or breathed softly. Her hot breath penetrated Ruby’s consciousness. It consumed her ears. They conveyed her care and her demand.

  “Sweetie, we are almost family.” Or assured while her fingers fondled along her nape. “Soon, we are a coven. Kelly too. Think of it like being naked in a pool with your Mom.”

  Not the words, or the person, Ruby hoped to hear. That image did not help at all. Too te or too focused to admit that she might have Mommy issue after all.

  “Honey, I know how this might feel. Being ambushed in a dark forest and stripped by two mature women who could be your moms.” Kelly took a pause and breathed a long-drawn sigh. Her warm current crashed on Ruby's twitching cunt, setting tremors. “Actually, that’s exactly how it is, and probably… exactly how it feels. Look! You are all wet. Will you stop getting horny!”

  Not after the image she evoked!!!

  Kelly, domestic mother-like Kelly. The sort who asked Ruby to trust her continued her work, holding Ruby’s thighs parted. Her deft fingers drew new patterns along her navel.

  That sent ripples. Pleasurable ripples. Ruby whimpered involuntarily. Kelly’s instructions became lost.

  “I am not horny.” Hard words. Ruby uttered them with tremendous effort and through gritted teeth. Not easy to lie when she let her head fall to meet Kelly’s concentration.

  Her actions contained no judgement. Nor teasing. Sheer acceptance rekindled through her unspoken ministration. Suddenly, Kelly became alluringly appealing.

  Not in the way of Or, with her confidence and imposing physique covered in gentleness. Or in Mom like abrasive brashness, carrying a domineering will in a well-tailored suit. Kelly presented something else. Kelly was beautiful — in a way that only her touch spoke. She shepherded Ruby through her soothing grasp. All tender strokes lent her a calm serenity.

  A grounding. No security like Or, but an assurance. Kelly steadied Ruby with her palms. Even her breath carried encouragement. It whispered understanding.

  That subverted everything she suggested. Suddenly, Ruby wanted to mewl in Kelly’s hands. She wanted to writhe and release, and melt in Kelly's ministrations.

  Ruby almost cried. “I am sorry.” Her confession choked within her throat. “I am trying.”

  Those words gained Kelly’s attention. A new brand of loyalty flowered through Kelly’s touch. They penetrated her skin.

  Ruby twitched. Her hand tried to push Kelly’s face away. Away from her moist, aching cunt. Push those gentle hands exploring her lower half. Push away the mature touch that made her want more.

  But Or pressed closer, suppressing her hands. Her cheek nudged Ruby’s chin, directing her visions upwards. They aroused her lips, coaxing them through soft pressure. She never tried capturing her mouth. Her hips pushed Ruby forward, only encouraging her participation.

  Then Kelly called out. “Or, help me hold her. She still squirms.”

  “Ruby, we are close now. Come. Just trust us.” Or hushed her. “This is important. You cannot enter and taint the pool.”

  “I am going to apply the ritual markings now.” Kelly dipped her fingers into a small bronze basin of white paste.

  When she drew the first circle around Ruby’s navel, Ruby moaned, twisting her hips. The whole sensation became an anathema. They felt both simultaneously cold and warm. When the paste hardened, they tugged around her skin, setting a very little consoling caress. Like the comforting pressure of an old lover’s touch.

  Or at least Ruby interpreted it that way, since she had no reference for it.

  Kelly continued drawing the second concentric circle. Her fingertips never stopped tracing. Her tongue stumbled through incantations. She traced her third circle lower, directly above her mound. This time, her strokes cut deeper, electrifying Ruby’s nerves. Soon, her whole body jerked, fighting against restraints. The movement in her chest expanded, while Ruby released deliciously trembling moans. Kelly pced her palms against Ruby’s stomach. “Try staying calm. Trust us.”

  Kelly completed her fifth and sixth circle around Ruby’s nipples. Now Ruby mewled incoherent words. Only Or patted her hair, comforted her through soft coos.

  Kelly started working along Ruby’s arms. With each line, she outlined further detail, curving their edges, accentuating them till they formed interlocking shapes. All the while, Ruby writhed in Or’s arms. Her motion strained her neck, causing her cheek to rest against Or’s cleavage. That spread her lips apart, leaving her mouth parted open. She pressed herself against Or’s welcoming embrace, holding her tightly, lulling her through gentle caresses.

  Soon, Kelly started drawing three concentric circles along Ruby’s thighs. They grew smaller, becoming delicate tracings.

  “Turn and hold her steady, Or.” Kelly muttered while she attempted finalising her work. “I need her hips and back firm.”

  Then Or draped her palms, one above Ruby’s navel, between her breasts, while her second rested below Ruby’s mound. That steadied Ruby through firm control.

  Or twisted her effortlessly again, forcing her to lean on her very inviting shoulders. Ruby allowed her mounting frustrations to melt. Her reluctance diminished. They faded through Or’s contact. Yet, not all senses faded away. Her awareness heightened and became apparent when Or adjusted her stance. Her hold became assertively dominant. The power contained within her grasp denied any retort.

  Her entire body was exposed. Completely bare. Ruby offered them unrestricted access. She offered them through her trust because Or’s hold, through the gentle assertiveness, imbued her confidence.

  Soon, Kelly’s finger reached her back. This time, Ruby released a rapid huff. Those echoed her struggle. Kelly's fingers meandered through her curves of her shoulder bdes. They delved over her spine, traced along her hips, traversed through her sides, travelling towards her arching curve. Every single touch exacerbated her sensuous torment. They manifested her desires. Ruby unduted her hips, writhing along two pairs of supporting hands.

  Kelly spoke softly. “With the six circles, I introduce our daughter to earth, air, fire, water, spirit and quintessence.” Then Kelly trailed her nails, leaving scratch marks along Ruby’s navel. The action sent ripples. Ruby tensed. Her mouth parted open. Air escaped her lungs. Or propped her, adding support through her steady palm.

  Or followed with her soft murmur. “With the six circles, I bear the tutege of our new daughter. Six circles for six elements may become the six portals for six developments. Intuition. Transformation. Protection. Divination. Manifestation.” Her voice trailed behind her ears, beckoning Ruby closer. A pause, too still and moment-defining fell. “And expansion.”

  Kelly breathed fresh air upon Ruby’s shoulder bdes. As did Or, on her forehead. Those tantalised her skin, exciting her senses. “Six circles may bind her along six pnes.”

  Or asserted, tensing her grip. She forced Ruby closer. “May they gift her wisdom.”

  Kelly completed, shaping her fingers upon Ruby’s flesh. She danced them along her spine. “May they reveal secrets.”

  Then Or pressed her lips to her forehead. They hinted. They gave. “May they secure her path.”

  Then Kelly mirrored, bestowing her seal along Ruby’s shoulder. “May they grant her protection.”

  Or breathed, a very giving expression. Her closeness spoke directly, carrying a sense of affectionate endearment. “May they shelter her.”

  And Kelly finished. Her coos captured her senses, resonating along Ruby’s consciousness. “May they love her.”

  Then Or seized Ruby’s chin, prompting her gaze. She hesitated only momentarily. Her gaze consumed Ruby, conveying messages. She drew her closer, initiating contact. Ruby wished their lips would meet firmly.

  Instead, Kelly took her by assurance and grace, leading her towards the pool. Or, even present and caring, was not far behind. Her presence was constant, as were her supporting palms. They helped Ruby. Their grip become more caring when her bare soles caressed soil.

  “Does it hurt, sweetie?” Or whispered directly along the contours of her ears. “This is ritual grounds. I am sorry. It has to be.” Then, her voice carried promise. “How about I massage your feet ter? Does it sound good?”

  The walk sted short. Five more steps and Kelly paused with a stiff sigh.

  “This isn’t going to work.” Another heavy exhale not aimed at Ruby came. “She is still rubbing her thighs.”

  Ruby worried that she lost Kelly’s approval, which she suddenly started to crave. But Kelly’s next words proved her wrong.

  “What was Morgane thinking? Sending her daughter unprepared.”

  “Sweetie, remember the time I washed you? Those were meant to ease you for this moment.”

  “It didn’t help me then. Not helping now, either.” Ruby blurted through agonising hisses.

  “Honey, this way. Or, if I may?” Kelly guided her away from the pools. She led her to a clean sb at the base of an angel-like statue, or at least, if angels were pole-dancers with all the demanding curves and allure projected from the correct perspectives.

  Laying beneath did not help much. Now all sights bare open to Ruby. The one who sculpted spared no expense in being anatomically very detailed.

  “Honey, it is natural, okay?” Kelly combed her fingers through mahogany dark locks. “I want you to kn...”

  “We are all women here, Ruby.” Or took over, but stopped when Kelly hissed.

  “Or, let me do the Mom talk, right? I have experience.”

  The shrug Or gave was filled with resignation.

  “Honey, I want you to know this is perfectly normal. And natural. Like Or said, you are in the comfort of your own herd. And witches. No judgments. Or shaming.”

  Kelly hesitated briefly. Her fingers left the trappings of Ruby’s locks and lowered. They took Ruby’s arm. Their gentle hold carried surprising strength.

  Then she spoke softly. “Besides, I remember when I used myself.... Let me confess, it feels amazing.”

  Her other palm brushed along Ruby’s cheek. Then they drew soft lines, creating a tentative path towards Ruby’s lips. She parted her fingers slightly, caressing Ruby’s pout. They opened through Kelly’s encouragement. With her middle finger, she traced Ruby’s lips.

  “Honey, don’t be ashamed.” When Kelly continued tracing her skin, she teased Ruby. Not through overwhelming touches. They only contained careful intentions. She continued her slow strokes. They shifted, forming graceful patterns towards her waist. Then they trailed between her thighs, parting them with a subtle nudge.

  Kelly whispered in Ruby’s ears. “Try thinking yourself comfortable. If you need help, I can try...” She guided Ruby’s palms down to her soaking cunt. “It can be liberating.”

  Ruby whimpered. Or has pced herself beside Ruby, supported her firmly, while Kelly focused on guiding Ruby.

  Or took time calming Ruby through her soft coos.

  Her conscious began spiralling. Ruby closed her thighs, reflexively covering her aching core. Her actions may deny Kelly’s attempt. But they brought her moistness closer.

  “Ride it along, honey. Just give yourself one.” Kelly continued with her suggestion. Their implications were lewd, but not Kelly’s expressions. They were genuinely caring. “It’s only an orgasm. A perfectly normal climax. Just flick the bean and fly with it.”

  The entire set-up provided all sorts of fodder. In any normal circumstance, Ruby may end her night alone, stroking her cunt while imagining two hot moms taking her together. In fact, those were exactly the fantasy she would have used a dirty sock for a week ago. Now they became a reality.

  “I know your struggle, sweetie. Just concentrate. I am sure you will love it.” Or added. “This isn’t intended to be vulgar.”

  Or leaned closer when Ruby whispered. “She made it seem so. How can she speak about rubbing so casually?”

  “Okay. I get it.” Kelly interjected. “You are shy, aren’t you?” Her robes unfurled, slipping over her waist to pool around her feet.

  Beneath, Kelly was naked, leaving her glorious natural exposure for feasting Ruby’s eyes. Though Ruby attempted averting her gaze, Kelly’s palms tilted her chin.

  “Don’t look away, honey.” Kelly spoke gently while her thumb caressed Ruby’s cheek. “Here. Your bits are covered. Privacy and all.” She gathered the discarded robe and covered Ruby’s modesty. The gesture, given any other circumstances, could only be interpreted as maternal warmth. Except both were naked, and Kelly urged her to rub her nude body in a particurly scandalous way.

  “But today we need you pure, alright?” Kelly continued. “So do the dirty deed and be pure for the ceremony. Just give yourself a big O.”

  Even Or sauntered closer. Vibrant green orbs drinking Ruby in her uncomfortable squirming. The intensity in them seemed to penetrate as though the yer of garment covering her nakedness did not exist. Then Or removed her cloak and draped it on Ruby.

  “There you go, sweetie. Two yers should keep you warm.”

  “Actually, I am feeling pretty hot and sweaty at the moment.” Ruby uttered the truth through her subtle attempts to touch herself. Subtle may not apply though, given the situation that both Kelly and Or encouraged Ruby to touch herself. It was entirely indecent. She pressed her eyes shut, averting them willingly from meeting Or’s because it was so arousing.

  No surprises there. Being stripped and asked to rub herself by two hot moms carried potency. They provided enticing promises.

  Then Or started stripping. “I need to get inside the pool for your initiation.”

  Ruby exhaled. Only two hot moms. One fully naked. Other anxiously stripping. She was between them. The moment was an invitation to all sorts of scandalous fantasy. But still her nakedness sat ill. She tried clenching her thighs. She tensed her lower half. That included her cunt. She gave access to her fingers. First softly, then a bit forceful.

  “No peeking, honey.” Kelly whispered along Ruby’s ears, pcing her palm against Ruby’s eyelids. Her whispers trailed her down cheeks. “You are only allowed to climax.”

  Ruby mumbled. Weak resistance spilled. “I am afraid I may...” The rest of her words dissipated as Ruby realised the closeness of Kelly. She lingered close, within touching distance.

  Up close, suddenly, Kelly was pulchritudinously enticing. Not because she commanded absolute respect through her immacute dress sense. Nor because she carried grace through her eloquent gait. She was neither Mom nor Or. Everything about Kelly became appealingly sexy with decreasing proximity. She id bare. Her fullness unencumbered. Her air, fragrant. And her lips, oh! How they exuded yearning desire.

  Ruby breathed. Her chest expanded. With her quivering inhale, she wished closer. Not just Kelly’s lips, but her entire skin and the contact they lend. Kelly brought with her a different charm, one that Ruby suddenly craved. Kelly did not captivate with an impressive physique that turned heads. Mom can grab all the attentions with her stunning frame, inciting a deep appetite to touch. Or can evoke a yearning to be held closer in her chiselled perfection. But Kelly possessed a softness that Ruby could sink into. Her body carried the markings of multiple childbirth, stretch lines along the abdomen, and a small fp of skin falling over her hips. Still, neither diminished her appeal. In fact, she wore those with an assertive confidence.

  Kelly shifted beside her. The mere contact filled Ruby’s stomach with sweet convulsions. Yet, Kelly added further affliction through her faint touch.

  “Look, you are pretty nervous.” Her fingers skimmed along Ruby’s arms, carefully mapping contours. “It’s quite natural, given your circumstances.”

  Ruby wanted to moan into Kelly’s mouth. There were far better ways to put those promising lips to use. But Kelly remained only close. Too close, taunting Ruby’s consciousness.

  Ruby worked her fingers, hoping to settle the moment through self-pleasure. A soft whimper escaped her well-pressed lips. That earned her a motherly concern. Both Kelly’s palms rested along her neck.

  Her whispers carried gentle admonishment. “I mean rubbing yourself with a gentle touch, honey.” Then her voice filled with comfort mixed with her own touch. “No need for aggressive scrubbing. I am concerned you might end up hurting yourself.”

  Ruby pushed her fingers closer. Much closer. She could touch the swollen spot. The warm blood engorged pearl pulsing beneath her fingertips. The shivers that raked her frame. The telltale signs were all there. In the way, she bit her lips preventing moans from escaping. She tried rubbing herself harder, hoping she could find release. She may end it all, still, the grand satisfaction eluded her. Only further frustration mounted with each passing attempt.

  Eventually, Ruby gave up with a sigh. “It ain’t happening.” She clicked her tongue in frustration.

  “Honey, have you done it before?” Her voice carried a consotion and a command. It certainly attracted Ruby’s attention.

  That was a patented mom tone. Not the one that Morgane Spenard frequently wielded. Kelly’s voice conveyed all the soothing lilts and forceful tugs in them and Ruby was powerless to resist.

  But her next words gave her pause. “Given your past... It stands to reason. Okay, honey, if you need instruction...”

  “It’s not like I am holding back on you.” Ruby snapped. How easy it may even sound, even somewhat appealing, having two Moms expining masturbation technique may hold certain appeal. She even imagined asking Or to guide her. Though she certainly didn’t feel uncomfortable having Kelly teach her. Or Mom. But that did give birth to her annoyed utterance. Or the words she spat out.

  Her frustration was birthed by another, a fast mounting stress. She could sense herself on the precipice. Approaching it slower and slower with every passing second. Despite her frantic attempts, the release eluded her. The tension kept mounting and climax seemeed like an unattainable mirage.

  “It just won’t come.” Ruby tossed and twisted. Her disappointment spilled in a generous measure. “Weird. It is there but then, it is also not there. Why can’t I complete a simple task? Rub it the right way. Put the pressure. But... I don’t know.”

  Kelly sighed. She shifted near her ear, consoling her. Her breath carried hints warm hues, forming wisps within air. “Oh honey, that’s because not only your body changed.” Her palm rested against Ruby’s forehead. She brushed, removing tangling hair along her temples. “Unlike with your former plumbing unit, the present you may feel everything overwhelming. Like all nerves bundled together, focused only on one spot. And you may lose sight where everything begins. You may lose where everything ends.”

  “Okay. I’m trying. Really.” Ruby screamed. “This is all new to me.”

  “You don’t need fingers for a powerful female orgasm. What if I tell you that you can achieve it without fingers, dildos or battery-operated toys?” Then Kelly’s lips capture Ruby’s earlobe. Soft coos fluttered, travelling along her skin. They coaxed her.

  Ruby’s whimpers only encouraged Kelly further.

  “You are not reaching the point because you are not mentally aroused yet.” Kelly’s breath wandered along the cheek, re-asserting contact. Her exhales were sweet. “Not in the right way. Trust me. I can help.”

  Those words smouldered, brimming through sacious connotation. Ruby may resist them. She very well could. But she wished to succumb. She wanted to surrender her will through parted lips. If only Kelly would capture them.

  Or, liberated from her blouse and skirt and now naked, sauntered closer.

  But Kelly’s soft fingers took Ruby’s chin. A light touch urged them closer. Kelly gave promises. Those spoke softly through enticing lips. Yet they carried weight. Ruby craved them. She craved them both, the divinely nude form of Or and the fond tutege of Kelly.

  “Close your eyes.”

  Ruby could not disobey Kelly, even if it meant closing her eyes to Or.

  “Remove your fingers.”

  Ruby did that because it was Kelly who asked.

  “Feel your heat. Imagine you are all drenched.”

  That wasn’t hard. She certainly didn’t need much imagination. Not when Or was bare naked beside her.

  “Now, listen. Listen closely. That’s all I ask. I will show you how you may feel the pleasure. First, keep your eyes closed. Only through imagination can you gain release. Conjure this mental image. Of your crush or crushes. The most powerful fantasy you can imagine. Hold this image strong.”

  Again. That wasn’t difficult. Not when the object of her affection lingered close. Naked and ever willing to touch.

  But then the images came unbidden. They shattered her mind. She expected Or, but was unprepared for Mom.

  Not exactly Mom.

  Not Morgane Spenard with all her irresistible seduction calcutedly delivered for her own benefit.

  Her mind was infested with Or and Mom, a very younger version. Together. Those images fshed not because in those Mom was closer in age. Rather, it was the genuinely unguarded expressions she had then. Or, who always carried a confident gesture like a second skin with Ruby, even had a tiny sparkle of sweet mischief in her. That expression of Or was reserved only for Mom.

  And Mom, sweet and pure Mom, so dazzling and brilliant, all sheer distilled innocence and untarnished perfection, her unsullied smile had the freshness of a spring breeze. Her unguarded ughter serenaded divine grace. Those were the attention Ruby craved.

  “Imagine them attending to you. With all their devotion. Now we can try again. Open your legs. I know you are trembling. Imagine them licking you. Down your calf. Your ankles. Along your feet. Feel those soft, hot breaths travelling along your soles. You call them by name. And they respond. Work that image.”

  Ruby found herself stolen by Kelly’s spoken words alone. She slipped further and further into her own powerful conjured fantasy.

  “Now they are massaging you. In whatever manner they know best. Do you feel it, honey? Both their firm touch. Concentration. Imagine. And experience it all. Feel it on your skin, through your mind.”

  Now, Or consumed Ruby’s fantasy. She straddled Ruby in her naked glory. Her powerful arms coaxed Ruby to dispy her modesty to Mom. The Or in Ruby’s mind steadied her palms. They rested against Ruby’s hips, holding them firm.

  Then Mom leaned closer. Ruby’s breasts were small, almost barely budding, but Mom’s fingers were diligent as was her touch. They sang through her twitching mound. Ruby moaned, spying her fingers wide open, exposing herself willingly. Mom scooted closer. She coaxed promises. Ruby’s erect nipples elicited interest. In fact, they seemed infmed, ready to be sated only by Mom’s lips.

  Ruby squealed. Very audibly, in fact. Morgane descended upon her chest, holding her. Ruby wriggled and twisted, not that she offered any in terms of resistance, and definitely not with Or pinning her hips. That forced her nipple past Mom’s softly parted lips.

  “Call it out honey.” Kelly’s words were an encouragement and an insinuation. “Verbalisation consolidates the image. Don’t be ashamed. It is only a mental construct.”

  As the warm wave spread through her body, Ruby found her rationality slowly stripped, leaving only the pleasurable sensation of Or’s grasp around her waist and Mom’s lips... and Kelly’s suggestion.

  “Or... Please... I am... “ Ruby uttered through incoherent moans. “Please Or... Mom, one more finger.”

  Those st few words opened the flood dams. The surge overwhelmed Ruby. All her other senses devolved, leaving her tossed in a unduting deluge of intoxicating ecstasy. Ruby unleashed her trembles. They consumed her entirely. Her knees shook. She gave herself, willingly, chasing her pleasure through the mental image.

  Her whole body, limbs, spines, nerves, cunt, everything pulsated through searing convulsions. In waves they came, making her scream. Each struck her, expanding, adding intensity, racking her frame. Her muscles strained. Still the pleasant torment lingered, showering her quivering lips, pulsing through her neck, and submerging her in an ever rising crescendo. Her belly contracted. Her navel tensed. Ruby rubbed against Mom’s non-existent fingers while Or’s very real and expectant palms caught her. She chased them, desiring them further inside. Till she colpsed, eventually.

  Or smiled, a very caring and non-callous expression.

  “Sweetie, you did good.” Then, came the kiss. The way Or leaned, and the small musical sound her lips made when they pressed and released, were divine. “Don’t think too much about it. They are just fantasies. We all have them. As long as you learn to distinguish, no harm there.”

  “Let me find something to get you cleaned up.” Kelly stumbled away, but Or took her spot.

  A tender smile greeted Ruby. Or’s touch came naturally, and without any disgust. “Sweetie, I really hope we haven’t pressured you.” Or wrapped her arms around, drawing Ruby further into her all-encompassing warmth. “Everyone needs mental relief. But remember, it’s only mental. Not reality.”

  Somewhere in those words, there resided a message. Or was being tactical. Ruby knew it.

  “You are of an impressionable age.” Or uttered words which were carefully thought and selected. “It is nice to endeavour hard to realise your dreams. But not all dreams should be attainable. Promise me that you will learn the distinction.”

  “Did I offend you somehow, Or, when I used your name earlier while touching myself? If I hurt you, I am sorry. Really am. But it seemed you encouraged me. When you initiated...” Ruby asked. “Or is it because of Mom...”

  “Fantasies and realities are different things. Especially sexual ones.” Or pressed her lips tight with an absolute finality.

  Further conversations were impossible with Kelly’s return.

  “Will this be sufficient?” Ruby pointed at the kleenex in Kelly’s hand. “To sufficiently wipe everything?”

  Kelly rubbed her eyes and chuckled. “This is what years of mystifying female orgasm led society to believe. Oh honey, it is not the fluid but the orgasm and the state of your consciousness during those moments that was the issue.”

  “We are talking about rituals, sweetie.” Or took over. “Mental over physical. Mental pattern may either help solidify physical presence or may induce altered states.”

  Kelly drew her palm along Ruby’s shoulders, liberating her from Or’s grip. “Look, honey. If Or’s expnation is complicated, then think about it this way. A very scientific fact. Half of the female brain goes into standby mode during an orgasm.”

  “Well, I have it on good authority that the whole male brain shuts down on erection.” Ruby provided.

  That actually expined why her mornings were impaired in her former life. After all, she did wake up with a non-functioning brain.

  Kelly was fast with her fingers, in cleaning of course. She wiped Ruby’s stains from her thighs and nether region. When she finished, her smirk was that of a proud and accomplished woman. “Mother of seven kids. And you are welcome.”

  Then they guided Ruby towards the pool. The sacred pool looked inviting.

  Kelly spoke first. “The ritual would help you gain access beyond reality. Through your consciousness, you will seek to reach powers beyond. You may beckon and one might answer. There paths are many. You may travel along one. Or many. Let no one decide your destiny.”

  Kelly dipped her toes, followed by rest of her feet, carefully testing the surface. Then she stepped fully inside water, allowing ripples to dissipate. They unduted disturbing the reflection of the pale mysterious moon on the surface. They seemed to dance the more Ruby stared. A silent invitation and a beckoning lull. Only the controlling grasp of Or on her shoulders prevented Ruby from tumbling in.

  Or always lingered behind. Never wandering far. Never releasing her touch.

  “Remember your lesson well.” Or’s spoke over a breathy whisper, almost as though raising her voice would break the sanctity of the ceremony. “Unlike Raisa, not many entities are benignant. Do not make deals. Do not entertain bargains.”

  “Was that Mo...”

  “We will talk about that ter.” Or clenched her fingers tightly, making a point. “Now gather your attention. Focus on the moon’s reflection.”

  In conjunction, Kelly moved her arms. They created mesmerising circles where her fingers plucked the surface. Her motions carried weight. The waves propagating carried them. Crest rose and troughs followed. Columns of travelling waves interfered painting the surface with a kaleidoscope of dazzling patterns.

  And the reflection of the moon waxed and waned. A very arcane dance that the moon invited Ruby to join. Ruby accepted, following its movements while Kelly continued tracing patterns through rippled surface. Soon, all became silent, leaving only her thoughts. And within silence she lost herself. She peered deep, searching.

  Then suddenly Or spoke, shattering peace. “Don’t lose yourself. Be aware. No need to surrender yourself because something beyond beckoned. Reach out at your own pace.”

  Ruby heard. Yet, she adhered only partially. Still her gaze lingered on the dancing silver disc. The allure was overwhelming. The pull grew stronger, becoming irresistible. It enticed. Invited. Reassuring and promising.

  Ruby found herself compelled. Her mind floated. She wished herself nearer. Closer. To touch. To experience them. She asked to enter. They opened, welcoming her.

  Water surrounded Ruby. Its coldness kissed. Yet, her awareness kept falling. Drowning. Deeper. Ever further. Her consciousness stretched toward unfathomable regions.

  Then Ruby called. They answered. They manifested themselves.

  Ruby saw herself, standing tall along foreign shores. A strange beach. Formless bck sands reflected light cast by a moonless sky. A light without a cognate and a firmament without a sky was where Ruby roamed.

  A welcoming breeze greeted Ruby, whispering promises. It was soft upon her skin. Gentle. It danced its fingers, tracing lines along her intangible form. When she shivered, it embraced her.

  Then, the first of the whispers came. Devoid of her physical sense, they felt more akin to dug out echoes of long forgotten memories.

  Alone. Are you?

  That echoed within her conscience. Ruby tried reaching them. She sought their source. All efforts met void.

  Then, their presence surged, demanding attention. They came with familiarity and they spoke louder.

  Why are you scared? We won’t harm.

  Trust. Trust we ask you. Their voices called. We won’t hurt you.

  Ruby reached, stretching beyond her limits. Tentative steps. And she encountered resistance.

  But it wasn’t hostile nor cruel, rather it guided. It grounded her awareness along unknown shores. They granted permission.

  Ruby walked freely, following their whispers through strange nds. They led towards an unknown destination, unseen.

  Do you wish us closer? They beckoned. Shall we come nearer?

  Their call stirred her curiosity, re-igniting lost enthusiasm. “Who am I talking to?”

  They answered. Are we personified? We are. We can show ourselves. Us. Through your perception.

  Ruby nodded through her mental projection. That seemed reasonable. And they revealed their forms.

  Or, rather they took forms, humanoid, seductively feminine ones.

  Their skins glistened through their wetness. Their limbs teased through their enticing movements.

  Their lithe figures dispyed their allure, drawing attention with subtle arcing motions. Their curves swept Ruby through their unspoken promises. They waned, accentuating firm muscles along shapely thighs, only to return, amplifying voluptuous curves and inviting hips.

  Ruby tried averting her gaze.

  Why shy from accepting our forms?

  Their soft coos inflicted. But despite her will, Ruby found herself mesmerised through sheer beauty alone. “You revealed yourselves. But, may I ask...”

  We come bearing offers. Gifts. Hold our bonds. For we give them.

  We are manifestations. We are offering. To bestow. Acceptance. We seek yours.

  Cim us.

  A tide engulfed, sweeping her entire form beneath, drawing Ruby further inward. They formed tendrils and coiled along her limbs. They intertwined, forming shapes upon her bare skin. They coalesced, creating mesmerising patterns. The pattern kept expanding, forming shapes over her arms. Then their touch wandered further below, tracing her stomach.

  Ruby moaned her appreciations when they descended, trailing her hips. Their touching presence lingered. Their caress remained. It permeated through her skin.

  We give. Do you take?

  One voice rose among her sea of consciousness, like an epiphany amidst litany.

  What was promised, none shall deny. A covenant pledged cannot be broken. Those were Mom’s words uttered through an unknown voice. But the potency in it remained. As did the veracity.

  And so Ruby repeated in her own voice because it felt right. “What was mine, none shall give. A covenant pledged cannot be broken.”

  With those procmations Ruby dissipated those figures. The alluring forms blew away in a wispy tendril smoke.

  And one still remained.

  I deem you worthy, daughter of the Shadowed Path. You are the vessel. I am the Aspect.

  Ruby startled. A wave rose manifesting beside her. It reverberated with power. Power that she cannot ignore. Power that she can not banish with a simple chant.

  “Who... Who are you?” Ruby asked through her consciousness. The entity’s presence became ever apparent. It was stronger. And it loomed nearer.

  The one you sought, daughter. The tone possessed familiarity.

  The shape took form, crystallising its features. It appeared feminine with generous cuts and contours in all correct pces. The skin gleamed, shimmering through pale light cast. Yet, they concealed rather than revealed.

  The one you wished, mother.

  “Am I the daughter or the mother?”

  You are both, daughter. You are Mother. Or Father. Whatever you wish. For one may possess all.

  The answer came in a mellifluous note.

  I am both. So are you.

  “Why should I trust you?” Or’s warning resounded through memory. ‘Don’t make deals. Do not enter bargain...’

  A ripple formed beneath where she stood, radiating outward. A wave moved along its circumference, creating rings expanding towards the unknown distance. The phenomenon grew in silence.

  Ruby found herself within pne filled with nothingness. Absolute nothing. Except the presence.

  “Why should I trust you?” Ruby repeated trying to sound threatening.

  Silence reigned. In the stillness, Ruby got her answer. It was a silence for Ruby to read. The presence did not try because she did need the incentive to convince Ruby. On the contrary, Ruby needed the presence. A very incongruent and disjointed thought, but one that kept pounding repeatedly.

  “What happens if I refuse?” This time Ruby perceived the shape clearly.

  The voice that fell become more distinct. It carried regret. “Then you live your life with regret for the death.”

  “Whose death?”

  The ominous silence ensued.

  “Dad? Or? Selina? Craven or Tasha?” Ruby hesitated. She wavered. Then she spoke slowly. “You owe me an answer.”

  Ask the right question.

  “By accepting you, will I stop the death?”

  None can stall death. Morrigan tried. Morrigan failed.

  “Your answer isn’t helpful!” Ruby protested.

  The shape shifted. Her form became more distinct. Features emerged. Two horns, each wickedly curved, protruded along her temples.

  Her skin changed, becoming darker. It faded through two different hues. A shade brighter like moonlight kissed and a deeper tinge meeting shadow’s embrace. Between them shifted ethereal smoke. Not wispy thin. Not dense either. Rather it permeated beneath, lending her form definition. It served only one purpose. It accentuated features. It carried potency when it rose to give wings, feathery and elegant.

  Where the Mistress of the Shadowed Path failed, where the War Queen stood helpless and cowering, the Lady of the Throne may provide soce. Your answers lie ahead.

  “Lady of the Throne?”

  I am your Aspect. We are the Lady of the Throne. Acknowledge me by name.

  “Your name?”

  The presence remained quiet. Instead, another wave rippled beneath, expanding ever further, carrying knowledge that still eluded Ruby.

  Acknowledge me by name.

  Her name seethed, rising among bck waves. A sudden consciousness encroached within Ruby’s mind. A sound both melodious yet terrifyingly regal. But the wave tore through the surreal reality and Ruby stumbled back.

  Cold water surrounded her. Her lungs struggled to yearn for air.

  Or cradled her form, bringing her face above the surface. Her arms wrapped Ruby’s frame. The strength in them invoked all feelings of safety and comfort.

  Then Kelly joined, supporting her along. “Honey, can you hear us?” Kelly called through hushed whispers, her breath tickling. “It is all over. The ritual is finished. You are one of us. A little witch now.”

  “No, it isn’t.” Ruby answered through boured gasps and wracking coughs. “The name. Her name. Its gone. I can’t recall.”

  A very-pregnant pause followed, one in which Or and Kelly exchanged silent gnces with each other. Ruby saw their lips pressing ft, forming tight lines along their mouths. And they took Ruby’s arm, guiding her along familiar shores.

  AnnouncementI have left this chapter on a huge cliff-hanger. Well actually, the mystery of Ruby's Aspect will be there for a while.I would love to hear you thoughts or opinions on Ruby's Aspect. So let the guessing continue.Also feel free to follow me. bsky

  Discord