CHAPTER ONE: Echoes of the Past

“Angelo?” Rex murmured in her sleep. Her voice, though soft, was enough to startle her sister awake.

Meanwhile, inside Rex’s dream…

“Ustedes dos, ¿a dónde van?” (You two, where are you going?) A booming voice demanded from behind them. Rexy was running, her hand tightly gripping Angelo’s.

“Señor, por favor!” Rexy pleaded. Suddenly, a massive tree branch pierced through her chest at the exact moment a gunshot echoed through the air.

Rex watched from a distance as her own body hit the ground, bloodied, yet still stubbornly holding onto Angelo’s hand.

Back to the present…

Rex stood up slowly. Her sister, Mycka, followed her movements with wide, worried eyes.

“Rex, wake up! You’re sleepwalking again! Wake up!” Mycka shouted. But Rex was deaf to the world, her feet leading her toward the veranda.

She was just about to leap over the edge when Mycka lunged forward, grabbing her just in time.

“Mommy! Daddy! It’s Rex!” Mycka screamed at the top of her lungs.

Their parents rushed to the scene immediately. As they pulled her back, the fog in Rex’s mind cleared, and she finally snapped back to reality.

“I’m sorry. Thank you, Ate Miks, for saving me… again,” Rex whispered, throwing her arms around her sister.

The Next Morning

The breakfast table was uncharacteristically quiet.

“Why is everyone so silent?” Danny, the youngest, asked.

“Rex was sleepwalking again last night,” Rebecca, their stepmother, replied. She looked at Rex with a frown. “Why don’t you see a doctor who can actually understand your situation?”

Rebecca was the stepmother to Rex and Mycka; only Danny was her biological son. Rex and Mycka had lost their mother to a tragic accident years ago.

“Mom, you mean a psychiatrist? Ate Rex isn’t-” Danny started to protest, but Rex cut him off.

“It’s okay, Danny. Tita is right. Maybe it’s time I visited my psychiatrist. I’ll go before I head to work.”

“Ija, are you sure?” her father asked, his face etched with concern. “Your Tita Rebecca and I were so worried last night.”

“Yes, Dad, I’m sure,” Rex replied with a reassuring smile, though Mycka and Danny still looked uneasy.

My name is Rex Reina Morales. I work as a scriptwriter for a news station. What most people don’t know is that I have a gift-or a curse. I see things that normal eyes cannot.

At 511 Network

Mercedes met her at the entrance, looking frantic. “Hey girl! Why are you late? Gelo’s mom is here!”

“What are you talking about? Our shift hasn’t even started yet,” Rex replied, checking her watch. “And Mrs. San Buena is here? Oh my god!”

Rex hurried inside. As she entered the room, her boss immediately introduced her to the elegant woman standing beside him.

“Mom, I want you to meet my star employee, Rex.”

“Rex?” the older woman repeated, scanning Rex from head to toe. “Isn’t that a boy’s name? You’re far too pretty for a name like that. Do you have anything else I can call you?”

“Um… you can call me Reina, if you’d like,” Rex offered.

“Reina. That fits you much better. Anyway, I’ve heard you’re the star here.” The old lady leaned in close to Rex’s ear and suddenly shouted, “Good job!”

Everyone burst into smiles. Usually, the boss’s mother was known for her stern, angry face, but today she seemed in high spirits.

The Warning

“Goodness, I was so nervous. I thought she was going to bite our heads off!” Mercedes exhaled after the visit.

“Me too,” Rex agreed. “I think she’s actually changed.”

Just then, Gelo walked over to their table, a bright smile on his face and food in his hand. “Hi! Mind if I sit here?”

Rex looked up, momentarily caught off guard by his sweet expression.

“Hey, Rex? Can I sit?” he asked again.

Mercedes nudged her. “Friend?”

Rex snapped out of it. “Oh, sure! No problem, Boss.”

Mercedes teased her as Gelo sat down. “Look at you, friend! You’re turning red. How embarrassing!”

“Be quiet!” Rex hissed under her breath.

Meanwhile, back at the house…

“I want you to stay away from your sisters. They’re weird,” Rebecca told Danny firmly.

“Really, Mom? If they’re weird, what does that make me?” Danny challenged. “Ate Rex sees ghosts. Ate Miks is just normal. And me? I can make these feathers float in mid-air without them falling. So, who’s weirder?”

As he spoke, chicken feathers began to drift upward, dancing in the air around him.

“Stop that, Danny!” his mother barked.

Outside 511 Network…

“Are you sure you’ll be okay waiting here, Rex?” Mercedes asked as she prepared to leave.

“Yes, I’m fine. I’ll just take a taxi. Get home safe!” Rex waved her friend off and hailed a cab.

She slid into the backseat, feeling more comfortable there than next to the driver. She put on her headset, scrolling through her playlist to find a song.

When they arrived at her house, Rex reached forward to hand the driver her fare. Her heart stopped.

For a split second, the driver had no head.

In her shock, she dropped the money on the floor of the taxi. She rubbed her eyes hard, and when she looked again, the driver appeared normal.

“Kuya,” Rex said, her voice trembling. “Go straight home. Burn the clothes you’re wearing today and don’t use this car for a while. I have a very bad feeling. Please…”

To be continued…

CHAPTER TWO: Whispers and Warnings

At the Coffee Shop

“I’m so sorry, Rex! I had to run an errand on the way. Did you wait long?” Mercedes asked breathlessly as she slid into the seat.

“It’s okay,” Rex replied, letting out a heavy sigh. “I just really needed someone to talk to.”

Mercedes leaned in, her voice dropping to a whisper. “Why? What happened? Did that wicked stepmother of yours start trouble again?”

“No, it’s not even that. It’s these dreams… they’re constant now. It’s always Rexy and Angelo. Mercedes, do you think I’m losing my mind?”

“Look, if you’re really worried, I know a great psychiatrist. Do you want me to go with you?” Mercedes offered, her face full of concern.

Rex started to stand up to leave, but she suddenly froze. A bone-chilling gust of wind swept across the back of her neck. She whipped around, her heart hammering against her ribs.

There, standing right behind her, was a man with no head.

Rex’s scream tore through the quiet atmosphere of the coffee shop. Every head turned in their direction, patrons staring in confusion and judgment.

“Bes! What is it? Don’t tell me you’re seeing one of them again?” Mercedes asked, her voice trembling with fear.

“Let’s just go,” Rex said, grabbing her bag with shaking hands. “Please, just take me to that doctor.”

At the Morales Residence

“Hi, Ate Miks! What are you doing?” Danny asked, wandering into the living room.

“Nothing much. Just looking through Mom’s old photo albums,” Mycka said with a nostalgic smile.

Danny sat beside her. “Ate… what actually happened to your mom?”

“It’s a sad story, really. Her marriage with Dad just wasn’t happy anymore. Eventually, they decided to get an annulment.”

“So you were the firstborn, and Ate Rex was the second,” Danny mused. “Can I ask you something else?”

“Sure, what is it?”

“Is it true that Ate Rex can really see ghosts? Does she actually have a Third Eye?”

Mycka nodded. “Yes, Danny. She has that gift. It’s not surprising, considering Dad has it too-though I don’t know much about the history of Dad’s side of the family. Anyway, don’t you have classes today?”

“I do, but not until later. Remember, Ate? I’m an adult now. I turn eighteen tomorrow!” Danny grinned proudly.

“No way,” Mycka teased, reaching over to pinch his cheek. “You’ll always be our baby brother, no matter what happens.”

“Ow! Ate, stop it!” Danny laughed, trying to swat her hand away.

“Alright, I have to head to work. Behave yourself! Mom and Dad aren’t home, so I’m going to let you drive my car. Consider it an early birthday gift-but please, be careful! And keep your mouth zipped about this, or Tita Rebecca will have both our heads.”

With a wink, Mycka dropped the car keys on the table and headed out.

The Doctor and the Deceased

“We’re here,” Mercedes announced as they stepped into the hospital.

“Goodness, Mercedes! This is where Mycka works,” Rex hissed, looking around nervously. “She’ll kill me if she sees me here. She doesn’t believe in psychiatrists-she thinks I’m perfectly sane and just overreacting.”

“Bes, you are sane,” Mercedes reassured her. “We’re just here for a check-up. Besides, I’m with you, right? I’ve got your back!”

Mercedes pushed the door open, leading Rex into the clinic. But as soon as they sat down, Mercedes started fidgeting. “Bes, I have to go… I really need to use the restroom. I’ll be right back.”

“Wait! Don’t leave me, I’m nervous,” Rex pleaded.

“Just sit tight, relax! I’ll be back before you know it,” Mercedes promised before rushing out of the clinic.

Rex sat alone until a voice spoke up beside her. She turned to see a teenage girl, looking about sixteen years old.

“Hi. Are you here to see my papa?” the girl asked politely.

“Hi! Oh, yes. Is your father Dr. Heero James Santos?”

“He is. I’m Georgina,” the girl replied with a sweet smile, offering her hand. “And you?”

“I’m Rex,” she answered, returning the smile. Just then, the doctor emerged from his office.

“Are you Rex Reina Morales?” Dr. Santos asked.

“Yes, Doc. Good day,” Rex said. The doctor gestured for her to enter, and Georgina followed them in.

“Come on in, Ate Rex,” Georgina encouraged. Despite her racing heart, Rex followed them into the private office.

“Please, sit down, Miss Morales. I am Dr. Heero James Santos, but you can call me Dr. Heero. Most of my patients do. Now, how can I help you today?”

Rex took a deep breath, clutching her bag. “Doc… do you believe in ghosts?”

The doctor paused, a look of surprise crossing his face. Rex immediately felt embarrassed.

“I knew it. I’m sorry, Doc, I shouldn’t have… I should go.” Rex started to stand up, but Dr. Heero stopped her.

“Wait. Even though I am a man of science-and as a doctor, we rarely believe in theories that cannot be explained-the truth is, I do. I believe in them. I don’t have a ‘Third Eye’ myself, but I believe. Why do you ask?”

Relieved, Rex began to pour out her story.

The Hallway Encounter

Meanwhile, on another floor, Mycka was busy with her nursing duties.

“Nurse Biore, please check on the patient in Room 34,” the head nurse instructed.

“Yes, Ma’am. On my way.” Mycka headed to the elevator and pressed the button for the ward.

As she walked down the hallway toward Room 34, she spotted a familiar face. “Mercedes? What are you doing here? Are you visiting someone? Tell me who it is so I can give you an update on them.”

“Dead!” Mercedes whispered under her breath.

“Who’s dead?” Mycka asked, alarmed.

“Oh! Nothing! I meant… I was looking for a check-up, but I think I’m on the wrong floor,” Mercedes lied quickly.

“Who are you looking for? I might know them. This floor is mostly Pediatrics and Psychiatry.”

“Uh… the OB-GYN! I think my boyfriend and I are having a baby,” Mercedes blurted out.

“Oh! Well, that’s on the second floor. Wait, you have a boyfriend? Who?”

“It’s a secret for now! I’ll introduce him soon, okay? Just don’t tell Rex yet,” Mercedes said, trying to steer the conversation away.

“Wait… is Rex here with you? Is she seeing a psychiatrist?” Mycka asked, her eyes narrowing.

“Yes… but please don’t be mad at her! I forced her to come because she’s been so bothered lately.”

Mycka sighed. “Fine. I have to get to my patient now.” She gave a small smile and headed toward Room 34.

As her hand gripped the doorknob, a sudden jolt hit her. Violent images flashed before her eyes-screaming, chaos, and a bitter argument. She froze, her breath catching in her throat.

The Revelation

Back in the office, Rex finished her session. She felt lighter as she stood up to leave.

“Thank you so much, Doc. You really are a ‘Heero.’ I’ll follow your advice. And thank you, Georgina. You take good care of your papa, okay?”

The room went deathly silent. Dr. Heero froze, his eyes widening in shock.

“Georgina?” the doctor whispered, his voice trembling. “Miss Morales… Georgina was my daughter. She passed away years ago.”

At that exact moment, the lights in the office began to flicker violently.

To be continued…

CHAPTER THREE: Justice from the Grave

“GEORGINA SANTOS”

“Are you serious, Doc?” Rex gasped just as the office lights began to flicker. A moment later, the room plunged into total darkness. Rex quickly fumbled for her phone and switched on the flashlight.

Her breath hitched in horror. The beam of light landed on Georgina, whose face was now drenched in blood. The girl stepped closer, her voice a hollow whisper.

“Ate… please help me.”

Meanwhile, Mycka tried to brush off the disturbing visions she had just seen at the door. She forced herself to maintain her professional composure.

“Good evening, sir. How are you feeling? I’m just here to check your blood pressure,” Mycka said. The male patient remained silent.

As she finished the check-up and turned to leave, the man suddenly grabbed her arm. His grip was frantic.

“Miss, help me. I don’t want to be in this hospital anymore. A ghost child is tormenting me. She’s standing right behind you!”

Mycka whipped around, but she saw nothing but the empty air of the sterile room.

“Sir, please try to rest,” Mycka said, trying to stay calm. “It’s likely just the side effects of your antibiotics. Just sleep.” But the moment her skin brushed his hand, another vision hit her-she saw a child dying in terror.

Back in the hallway, Rex was chasing after the spirit of Georgina. “Wait, Georgina!”

Mercedes and Dr. Santos were close behind, struggling to keep up. The ghost girl stopped abruptly in front of a room.

“Ate, the bad guy is inside,” Georgina said before vanishing through the door.

“Wait, Bes! You run too fast!” Mercedes panted.

“Miss Morales… is she still here? Is my daughter here?” Dr. Santos asked, his voice cracking.

“Yes, Doc. She told me the person who killed her is right here in this hospital. She says he’s inside that room.”

Dr. Santos threw the door open. Inside, they found a nurse standing frozen, staring blankly at the patient.

“Ate Miks?” Rex cried out, rushing to her sister’s side. Mycka snapped out of her trance as Rex pulled her away from the bed.

“Nurse Biore? What happened?” Dr. Santos asked.

“I’m okay, Doc. Sorry,” Mycka stammered, still shaken.

Georgina reappeared beside Rex and pointed a pale finger at the patient. “He killed me. He was Daddy’s driver.”

The man in the bed looked up, his face pale. “Sir Santos?”

“Mang Kadyo? You never told me you were confined here,” Dr. Santos said, confused.

“Doc,” Rex interrupted. “Georgina says he is the one who killed her.”

“What? How? Mang Kadyo, you told me you were just late to pick her up from school! You said you saw men in a car take her. I don’t understand!”

Mycka finally spoke up. “The truth, Doc, is that he wasn’t late. It was all planned. It was supposed to be a kidnapping for ransom to scare you, but Georgina saw his face. So he shot her.”

“And the scar on his left hand?” Rex added. “Georgina gave him that.”

Dr. Santos lunged forward and grabbed the man’s left hand. There it was-a deep, jagged scar.

“Mang Kadyo? Why? I treated you like family! Why would you do this to me?” Dr. Santos wept. The man couldn’t find the words to look his employer in the eye.

“The evidence is at an old factory in Batangas,” Rex said, relaying Georgina’s words. “Ate, I left my voice recorder there. The one Mommy gave me. It’s still there.”

Rex looked at the doctor. “Her voice recorder is at the crime scene. It caught everything.”

Mang Kadyo finally broke. “Forgive me, Sir. I only did it for the money.”

“Nurse, call the police,” the doctor commanded, his fists clenched tight.

Georgina looked at Rex one last time. “Ate, tell Papa not to send him to jail. He’s already suffering here in the hospital. I feel sorry for him.”

Rex hesitated, then nodded. “Doc… your daughter says there’s no need for the police. She says Mang Kadyo is already suffering enough.”

“No,” Dr. Santos growled. “He must answer for what he did!”

At the Bar

Meanwhile, across town, Danny sat alone at a bar, nursing a drink. A woman approached him, sliding into the seat next to him.

“Hey. You look new here. And I’m guessing you’re not exactly legal age? How’d you get past the entrance-16? 17?”

“I’m twenty,” Danny lied smoothly.

“Sure you are,” the woman, Jean, laughed. “I’m Jean. And you?”

“Danny,” he replied, shaking her hand. As their skin met, Jean’s eyes sparked with a strange light.

“So, it’s true then? Witches really do exist?”

Danny’s eyebrows shot up. “What are you talking about?”

“You. A witch. Just like me,” Jean whispered. “I know all about your past life, Danny.”

Danny moved to stand up, but his breath hitched when the glass in his hand began to hover, slowly lifting of its own accord.

“Danica McKellar,” the woman whispered, her eyes locked on his. “She was a dear friend to the heir of the Morales family back in 1845. You were born in France in that life. And I? I was your teacher, Vina Robles.”

“You’re insane, lady!” Danny snapped. He forced the glass back down, turned on his heel, and bolted out of the bar.

He hailed a taxi immediately, his heart hammering against his ribs. As the car sped away, he looked back through the rear window. Jean was still there, standing at the entrance, watching him with a knowing, eerie smile.

Midnight Confessions

Back at the house, the sisters were huddled together in their shared bedroom.

“Rex, can you see Gelo’s face in your dreams yet?” Mycka asked.

“Not yet, Ate. Everything is still so blurred,” Rex sighed, leaning against the headboard. “But I see myself. They call me ‘Rexy.’ We’re always running… Gelo and I, sprinting across a shore while people-I don’t know who-chase us down.”

Mycka reached out. “What if I try to hold your hands? Maybe I can see this ‘man of your dreams’ through you.”

“Okay… let’s try,” Rex agreed, extending her palms.

Mycka gripped them tightly. They both closed their eyes, leaning into the silence of the room. Minutes ticked by, the air heavy with anticipation, but Mycka saw nothing but darkness.

“Well? Did you see anything?” Rex asked hopefully.

Mycka pulled away, looking confused. “Nothing. I don’t understand why it’s not working with you.”

“Maybe we should just get some sleep,” Rex muttered, disappointed.

They settled into their beds and, exhausted from the day’s trauma, Rex drifted off quickly. Like clockwork, the dream reclaimed her. She was back on the shore, the sand shifting beneath her feet as she ran hand-in-hand with her lover.

“Hurry, Rexy! We’re running out of time!” Gelo urged. “The men are almost-”

A deafening gunshot cut him off.

Rexy screamed as Gelo collapsed. Under the cold, pale glow of the moonlight, she saw the blood pooling around him.

“Noooooo!”

Another shot rang out, and Rexy fell beside him, her body hitting the sand facing Gelo’s corpse. But even in death, his face remained a shadow, hidden by the darkness of the dream.

A Ghostly Farewell

Rex bolted upright in bed, gasping for air, her nightgown soaked in cold sweat. She glanced at Mycka, who was still fast asleep, undisturbed.

Seeking clarity, Rex stepped out onto the veranda to breathe in the cool night air. Suddenly, a familiar figure shimmered into view.

“Ate Rex,” Georgina whispered. “Thank you. Because of you, I got to talk to my papa earlier. I can rest now, knowing he knows the truth about what happened to me. Thank you.”

The young ghost’s form began to fade, turning into soft points of light before vanishing into the breeze. Rex didn’t say a word; she simply smiled and waved a final goodbye to the girl who had finally found peace.

To be continued…

CHAPTER FOUR: The Nurse’s Burden

Mycka Biore’s P.O.V.

My name is Mycka. I currently work as a nurse here in Manila. I’m the eldest of three; I am the daughter of my father’s first wife. After me came Rex, and then our youngest, Danny.

For the longest time, I’ve kept my abilities hidden. I have no desire to be labeled “insane,” especially given my profession as a nurse. In a world of science and medicine, there’s no room for the things I see.

Right now, I’m sitting at the nurse’s station. Since it’s my break, I figured it was safe to let my mind wander for a bit. My daydreaming was cut short, however, when my best friend called out to me.

“That’s enough, Ate Miks! You’re on break, aren’t you?” Myda teased, leaning over the counter. “Come on, let’s go catch a glimpse of the new doctor. I heard he just arrived from the U.S. I bet he’s a total heartthrob!”

“Oh, Myda… you go ahead,” I replied, standing up. “I still need to check on Mang Kadyo.”

“Suit yourself! But don’t you know? I’m about to clock out, and my replacement is Charity-also known as Fafa Jojo ,” Myda said with a wink.

“It’s not that I’m discriminating against our LGBT brothers and sisters,” I sighed, grabbing my bag, “but he is just so persistent. Fine, I’m coming!”

The Vision at the Main Building

As we headed toward the main building where the welcome party was being held, I accidentally collided with a woman. My hand instinctively reached out to steady her, gripping her arm.

The moment our skin met, another vision slammed into my mind.

I stood there, frozen in place, the world around me fading into the background. I only snapped back to reality when I heard Myda’s worried voice.

“Ate Miks? Are you okay?”

“I’m so sorry, Miss…” I stammered, looking at the woman.

She slowly pulled off her sunglasses and looked at me. “It’s okay. It wasn’t intentional. I understand… Excuse me,” she said coolly before turning to walk away.

Once she was out of earshot, a name escaped my lips-a place I had never been to, yet felt so vivid.

“Sta. Helena…?”

“That woman was a bit much, wearing shades inside a hospital,” Myda commented, shaking her head. “But come on, let’s hurry up!” She grabbed my arm and pulled me toward the party.

Awakened Memories

Inside Dr. Santos’ Office

“Hi, Dr. Santos. My name is Jean Robles. Nice to meet you,” the woman said, extending her hand.

“How can I help you, Ms. Robles? I’ve checked my schedule for today, and I don’t see an appointment under your name,” Dr. Santos replied, professional yet cautious.

“May I sit?” Jean asked, a single eyebrow arching in a playful yet commanding challenge.

“Sure, have a seat,” Dr. Santos offered.

“Thank you. I thought for a moment you’d keep me standing. Anyway…” Jean began, slowly sliding off her sunglasses. “Dr. Heero James Santos, I am here to return the memories of your past.”

“What do you mean?” Dr. Santos asked, his confusion mounting.

“Wait, is it just me, or is it getting a bit warm in here?” Jean remarked. Without waiting for an answer, she slipped off her blazer, revealing her smooth, pale shoulders. Dr. Santos found himself momentarily speechless, his throat going dry at the sight of the mysterious woman.

“You seem to be enjoying the view, Dr. Santos,” Jean purred. “I’ll admit, I’m beautiful, but I’m not here for a fling. I’ll admit you’re hot, too, but we can talk about that after my mission. Now, tell me… do you believe in reincarnation?”

“What kind of question is that? What exactly do you want?”

“I didn’t expect you to be this difficult to talk to. Fine, I’ll just remind you myself.” Jean stood up and leaned across his desk, pulling him closer by his necktie until their faces were inches apart.

“Miss Jean…” Dr. Santos stammered.

“You are the great-grandson of the Morales family from the Spanish era. Senior Chief Jacinto Santos,” she whispered. Before he could protest, she pressed her lips against his. The moment they touched, a flood of images surged into Dr. Santos’ mind-vivid memories of himself as a soldier in 1845.

“Señora Vina Robles?” Dr. Santos gasped as they pulled apart.

Jean smirked, satisfied, and immediately pulled him back into a deep, passionate kiss.

The Hospital Corridor

Meanwhile, Mycka and Myda had finally met the new doctor and were heading to a convenience store.

“Ate Miks, I have a feeling Dr. Santiago likes you,” Myda teased.

“And how did you come up with that?” Mycka asked, skeptical.

“Because the whole time he was talking to you, he couldn’t take his eyes off you! And that smile? It was something else,” Myda said while fixing her hair.

“Oh, please! I’m too old for those ‘kilig’ moments. Besides, why would he like me at first sight? You’re imagining things,” Mycka laughed, taking a sip of the coffee they had just bought.

“You’re beautiful, Ate Miks! I don’t know why you’re so avoidant when it comes to love. But if you had to choose? Dr. Santiago and his… impressive ‘stature,’ or Fafa Jojo and his flowery charms?”

Mycka burst into laughter. “Stop it! Charity is a nice person. I’ll stick with ‘Charity’ because I can’t bring myself to call him Jojo. I’m fine just being Miss Congeniality, okay?”

“Whatever you say! But my gut tells me there’s a future-and a past-between you and Dr. Santiago. He’s 29 and gorgeous! Anyway, I have to go, Ate. See you tomorrow!”

At 511 Network

“Miss Morales, I don’t like this article! It’s obvious you rushed this,” Rex’s boss said, tossing the papers onto his desk.

“Sir? Rushed? I spent two weeks writing that, and the sources are legit!” Rex defended herself.

“No. I want you to revise this in two hours. You can close the door on your way out once you’re done making excuses,” he said firmly.

“But Mr. San Buena-” Rex tried to argue, but he cut her off with a look. She had no choice but to stomp out of the office, her face twisted in a pout.

Gelo San Buena watched the door close and a small smile played on his lips. “She’s actually cute when she’s annoyed,” he murmured. He picked up his phone and dialed a number.

“Hello? This is Gelo San Buena. You can go ahead and take the article from Ms. Morales. Publish it now.”

The Article and the Apology

At the 511 Network Office

Rex was hunched over her desk, her fingers flying across the keyboard with aggressive speed.

“Girl, are you okay? Why are you so busy?” Mercedes asked, leaning over the cubicle wall.

“Ugh! Our boss didn’t accept my article. He’s unbelievable!” Rex ranted, not once looking away from her screen. “The nerve of that man-saying I rushed it. Heaven knows I spent two weeks on that piece, and every word is legit. I even paid for some of the research out of my own pocket. It’s so frustrating!”

“Uh, Bes? Calm down before you break that laptop keyboard,” Mercedes said softly. “Was that the article about ‘True Love’?”

“Yes, that’s the one! Just give me a few minutes, Bes. I need to finish this. He wants a ‘revival,’ so I’ll give him one!” Rex continued to type furiously.

“Actually, Bes… that article was sent to the publishing house at 11:00 AM today,” Mercedes revealed.

Rex froze. “What? Are you kidding me? Is that Gelo guy just messing with me now?”

Rex was fuming, her face red with anger. She had no idea that Gelo was standing nearby, watching her with a hidden, playful smirk as she looked ready to explode.

“Attention, everyone!” Gelo called out, stepping into the center of the room. “We’ve just hit the top of the charts. We owe a huge thank you to Ms. Morales for her incredible work.”

Immediately, the office erupted in cheers, and her coworkers flocked to her desk to congratulate her.

“Thanks… thank you,” Rex managed to say, forcing a smile despite the irritation still simmering under her skin.

Once the crowd dispersed, Gelo lingered by her desk. “So, Rex… do you have plans later?”

“None, but I need to eat. And you’re treating me!” Rex shot back, arching an eyebrow. “You can be so annoying sometimes, you know that?”

Mercedes and Gelo both laughed, seeing clearly that she was still piqued by his little prank.

“Just say ‘yes’ to him already, Bes!” Mercedes teased.

“He can do whatever he wants with his life! But Boss? Hey! You owe me. Actually, you owe all of us pizza, right now! I’m so annoyed I feel like punching something,” Rex joked, though her tone was sharp.

“Yes, Ma’am,” Gelo chuckled, raising his hands in surrender. “The pizza is on me.”

To be continued…

CHAPTER FIVE: The Roadside Omen

“TANYA SANDOVAL”

As Rex was driving home, her phone began to ring. She answered it immediately.

“Hello, Danny?” Rex said, but as she pressed the phone to her ear, she nearly collided with someone on the road.

“Oh my god! Miss, are you trying to get yourself killed?” Rex screamed. She threw her car door open and rushed toward the figure she had nearly hit. “Miss? Excuse me? What are you doing out here?”

Rex stopped in her tracks. The woman was kneeling by the side of the road, calmly lighting candles. She didn’t answer; she simply stared at Rex with a haunting stillness.

“Miss, are you okay? If you don’t mind me asking, why are you lighting candles here? You’re going to get hit!” Rex warned.

The woman looked up again. “You shouldn’t have come this way. I’m lighting these because someone died here.”

“Died?” Rex asked, puzzled. She scanned the area but saw no headstones or markers. However, as she looked further into the shadows, she spotted a black car smashed against a massive tree. “Miss! Come on, let’s help whoever is in that car! Why didn’t you call an ambulance? Move!”

Rex ran toward the wreckage. As she peered through the shattered glass, her heart hammered against her ribs as if she had run a marathon—the face of the woman in the wreck was the exact same face of the woman she had just been talking to.

Rex whipped around to look at the stranger. The woman’s appearance had transformed: her face was now mangled and bloody, her shirt soaked in a deep crimson liquid.

“Miss… please help me,” the spirit pleaded.

Terrified, Rex scrambled back to her car and called Mycka and Danny. Even as she spoke to them, the ghost of the accident victim continued to wail, begging for help. Closing her eyes tightly, Rex whispered to the spirit, “I’ve called the ambulance… go back to your body. Now!”

“Miss, I’ve been out here for over five hours,” the spirit replied. “I’m likely dead already. And this wasn’t an accident. I was murdered.”

“What do you mean?” Rex asked, trembling.

“My name is Tanya Sandoval. I’m a lawyer,” the ghost began. She reached out and touched Rex’s hand. In an instant, a flood of memories surged into Rex’s mind, showing her exactly what had happened before the crash.

The Confrontation

Meanwhile, Mycka and Danny were racing toward Rex’s location when a woman suddenly blocked their path.

“Where do you think you’re going? Is Rexy in trouble again?” the woman asked coolly.

“Excuse me? Who are you? How did you even get in front of us?” Mycka demanded.

“That doesn’t matter. I am Jean—the reincarnation of Vina Robles, an old friend of the Morales family from Sta. Helena.”

“Ate Mycka, don’t talk to her,” Danny urged. “We need to get to Rex.”

“Teacher? Is that how you greet your former student?” Jean said, her eyes fixed on Danny.

“Look, Miss, if you’re on something, I don’t care,” Mycka snapped. “Get out of the way before I run you over.”

“Don’t you ever wonder why you have these ‘gifts’?” Jean challenged. “Rexy can see the departed. And you, Mycka… you can see the past of any living soul if you truly desire it. Does none of this make you curious?”

“Leave us alone!” Danny shouted. Suddenly, Jean’s body slumped, and she fell to her knees, gasping as if the air had been sucked out of her lungs.

“Don’t you dare hurt my family!” Danny added, his voice vibrating with a power he didn’t fully understand. Jean let out a piercing scream of agony.

“Danny, what are you doing? Stop it!” Mycka cried, grabbing her brother. Danny blinked, suddenly snapping out of his trance. In that split second, Jean vanished into thin air.

“Where did she go?” Mycka whispered, chilled to the bone.

“Ate Miks, let’s just go!” Danny urged, and they sped away.

At the Precinct

By the time the sisters and Danny reunited at the police station, an investigation was already underway.

“Miss Morales, can we invite you inside for documentation?” a police officer asked. Rex nodded silently.

The police had also called Tanya Sandoval’s relatives. As they arrived, the ghost of Tanya appeared behind Rex, pointing a spectral finger at a man in the room.

“I was just passing by when I saw Miss Sandoval’s car,” Rex explained to the officer.

“Why were you taking that route, Miss Morales? That road is muddy and barely paved,” the officer questioned.

“I was heading home! I take that shortcut when I’m running late,” Rex replied, her voice rising in frustration.

“Be careful, Rex,” Tanya’s ghost whispered in her ear. “My boyfriend—that criminal standing out there—is the one who shoved my car into that tree. You saw it, didn’t you? Please tell my parents not to be fooled by him.”

“Okay, thank you, Miss Morales,” the officer said, releasing her.

Rex looked down and walked out of the precinct. “Tanya,” she whispered to the air, “if what you’re saying is true, I can’t say it here, not right now in front of your parents. It might put them in danger. Let me find the right moment. Don’t worry… I will help you.”

“Who are you talking to, Ate?” Danny asked as they walked to the car.

“Are you with the ghost of the Sandovals’ daughter?” Mycka added.

“Yes, Ate Miks,” Rex shivered, hugging herself. “I need to rest. I’m so cold.”

The Hidden Town

A few moments later, Mercedes and Gelo arrived at the scene, looking breathless.

“Rex, what happened?” Gelo asked, his eyes searching hers for any sign of injury.

“Yeah, Bes, are you okay? Thank goodness Mycka called us,” Mercedes added, clutching her chest in relief.

“I’m fine. You didn’t have to come all the way out here, Sir,” Rex said, looking at Gelo.

“No, I… I wanted to see you,” Gelo replied firmly.

Mercedes grinned, nudging Rex. “You wanted to see Rex because…?”

Gelo shot Mercedes a look. “You’re working overtime tomorrow, Mercedes.”

“Boss! That’s low!” Mercedes groaned. Rex couldn’t help but let out a small, genuine smile at their bickering.

At the Morales Residence

Shortly after, they all arrived at the house.

“Thank you so much, Sir, and you too, Bes. I’m really okay now. Please, have a seat. Manang, could you please prepare some coffee for our guests?” Rex requested. Their housekeeper immediately approached and greeted them warmly.

“Of course, Ma’am. Coming right up!”

“Sir, I’m just going to change. Mycka and Danny should be down in a minute,” Rex said before heading upstairs.

Once Rex was out of earshot, Mercedes turned to Gelo with a smirk. “So, Boss… I thought you were finally going to confess?”

“The timing was terrible,” Gelo sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Rex was clearly traumatized by what happened, and I’m certain she saw another ghost.”

“Ugh, you’re so hopeless. Just you wait—once Bes finally meets the ‘man of her dreams,’ you’ll be completely invisible to her,” Mercedes teased.

The Secret of Santa Helena

Upstairs, Mycka was lost in thought, haunted by the encounter they had on the way to pick up Rex.

“Reincarnation? That woman was right,” Mycka whispered to herself. “And I keep dreaming about that place… Santa Helena. I’ve searched for it on Google Maps a thousand times, but nothing ever comes up.”

Rex, who had just entered the room, froze at her sister’s words.

“Ate Miks? You’ve been dreaming about Santa Helena too?” Rex asked, her voice trembling.

To be continued…

CHAPTER SIX: The Shadows of Santa Helena

“TANYA SANDOVAL”

The Doctor’s Secret

At the nurse’s station, Myda found Mycka slumped over her desk, fast asleep. She gently tapped her friend on the shoulder.

“Ate Miks?”

Mycka stirred, blinking away the fog of sleep. She reached for a small mirror beside her tumbler to check her face. “Oh, Myda. You’re here. Have you been waiting long?”

“Not really. But what happened to you? You look absolutely exhausted,” Myda noted with concern.

“We had to go somewhere last night with Rex and Danny. I didn’t get much rest,” Mycka sighed, checking her watch. “Is it lunch already?”

Just then, their colleague Christine arrived, carrying a large bouquet of flowers. “Mycka, these are from Dr. Santiago. I tried to decline, but he wouldn’t take no for an answer,” she said, placing the flowers in front of Mycka.

“What were you doing at the other building anyway, Tine?” Mycka asked.

“I was visiting my husband when I ran into him,” Christine replied, sitting beside Myda. Both women leaned in, their eyes practically begging for a story. “So… what exactly is going on between you and the handsome Dr. Santiago?”

Mycka took a deep breath. “The truth? Rene-Dr. Santiago-is my ex. Come on, let’s head to the cafeteria. I’ll tell you everything there.”

The Sight of Death

Over at the news station, Rex was trying to focus on her work when Mercedes approached her. “Girl, Mr. San Buena is calling you. He looks like he’s in a bad mood,” she whispered, pointing toward Gelo.

Rex sighed heavily, bracing herself. But before she could take a step, a hand suddenly gripped hers. The skin was ice-cold-a chill that seeped into her bones. She slowly looked down, and her heart nearly stopped.

Rex let out a blood-curdling scream. There, standing before her, was Tanya, her face mangled and drenched in blood.

“Help me, please,” the ghost whispered. “You’re the only one who can see me.”

The scream brought Gelo rushing to her side. Mercedes followed, panicking as Rex’s eyes rolled back and she collapsed. Gelo caught her just in time.

“Rex! What’s happening?” Gelo shouted. Without waiting for an answer, he scooped her up and carried her toward the company clinic.

As they left, the office erupted in whispers. Mercedes immediately shut them down. “Stop the gossip! They aren’t in a relationship, and no, she isn’t pregnant. It’s just anemia! Get back to work!”

The Hidden Realm

In a secluded place shrouded in thick, perpetual mist, the architecture remained frozen in the Spanish colonial era.

“I am here,” Jean announced to two figures standing by a massive window.

“¿Tienes alguna actualización? (Do you have any updates?)” a man asked. His ornate, expensive clothing marked him as someone of high status.

“I’m sorry, Senior Ronnel. It seems convincing the siblings will be more difficult than we thought,” Jean replied.

Senior Ronnel removed his hat and turned to face her. “In that case, you’ll need help with this mission. They need to return here as soon as possible.”

The man beside him also removed his hat, revealing golden hair. “I will help, Senior.”

“Do as you wish,” Ronnel commanded. “Just ensure the Morales bloodline is returned to Santa Helena.”

The Pursuit of Evidence

Rex eventually woke up in tears. “They killed Tanya. She showed me. It wasn’t an accident,” she sobbed.

Mycka, Danny, Gelo, and Mercedes exchanged worried glances. “We have to help her,” Rex insisted.

“We’re with you, Rex,” Danny said, stroking his sister’s head.

“Danny’s right. We’re in this together,” Mycka added with a supportive smile.

They wasted no time and drove back to the crash site. As they approached the wreckage, Mycka began touching the items left inside, hoping for a vision. She started with a stray bead from a broken necklace, seeing flashes of the moments before the tragedy.

Meanwhile, Tanya’s spirit appeared behind Rex. “Rex, the dashcam is behind the seat. It flew back there before I hit the tree.”

“Danny, the dashcam is behind the seat!” Rex relayed. Mycka reached into the spot Tanya had pointed out and successfully retrieved the device.

“We need to get this to the authorities,” Rex said.

“But not to my stepdad,” Tanya warned. “Give it straight to the police.”

The Ambush

As they stepped out of the car, Danny was suddenly thrown through the air, landing hard near his sisters.

“Danny! My god, be careful!” Mycka cried.

“Ate Mycka, get back. I’ll handle this woman,” Danny growled, picking himself up.

“Wait!” Rex shouted, recognizing the figure standing before them. “Jean? Why are you two fighting? Danny, why are you picking a fight with my friend?”

Jean smiled as Rex approached her. “Rex, it’s good to see you.”

“You two know each other?” Danny asked, confused.

“She’s my old classmate,” Rex explained, moving to hug Jean. “Please excuse my brother. By the way, you look even more beautiful now.”

“I didn’t realize he was your brother,” Jean said smoothly.

“Ate Rex, get away from her!” Danny yelled, his hand glowing with energy. “She has a knife behind her back!”

Suddenly, Danny and Rex both doubled over in pain. A strange, invisible force-the power of James’ men-hit them. Rex felt her strength drain instantly.

“Wha-what are you doing?” Rex managed to whisper before her world went black.

“Ate Rex!” Danny’s voice echoed in the distance as Mycka screamed.

“It’s time,” Jean said coldly. “We’re going back to Santa Helena.”

To be continued…

CHAPTER SEVEN: Where is Rexy?

The events unfolded with a dizzying speed. Jean had abducted Rex, and Danny and Mycka could only watch in horror as she vanished along with their unconscious sister. Just as the siblings were grappling with the shock, Myda, Christine, and Dr. Santos arrived at the scene.

“Thank God you’re here,” Mycka stammered, her voice trembling. “Everything happened so fast… I don’t know what to do anymore.”

“Relax, Mycka. We’re here now,” Dr. Santos said firmly. “Tell us exactly what happened.”

Mycka took a deep breath. “A woman took my sister. Her name is Jean.”

The three newcomers exchanged a long, meaningful look. Silence fell over the group, thick with secrets.

“Why did you all go quiet?” Mycka asked, her eyes narrowing.

“It’s not safe here,” Christine answered quickly. “We’ll explain everything once we’re back at our house.”

“Where is Danny, Ate Mycka?” Myda asked.

Danny suddenly emerged from the shadows, his face a mask of grief. “I tried to follow them, but I lost their trail. I don’t know where they went.”

“It’s okay, Danny. We’ll find her,” Dr. Santos reassured him. “For now, come with us.” Danny simply nodded, too drained to argue.

The Truth of the Immortals

They arrived at Christine’s house, a place that felt strangely secure. Once they were settled, Mycka demanded answers. “What is really going on? Are the things you’re saying even true?”

“Yes, Mycka. Believe us,” Myda replied. “We were sent by the Conde-your father-to protect you and your siblings.”

“Myda is right, Nurse Biore,” Dr. Santos added. “My true name is Jacinto Santos. I am your half-brother from the year 1845. I’ve faced Jean before, but-”

He was cut off when a woman dressed in elegant, vintage clothing stepped into the room.

“Do you have guests, Christine?” the woman asked.

“Oh, this is my sister, Myan,” Christine introduced. Upon seeing Mycka and Danny, Myan immediately bowed low in respect.

“Wait, you don’t need to do that,” Mycka said, more confused than ever. “I don’t understand any of this.”

“I will explain,” Myan said with a smile that revealed deep dimples. “I am Myan Caballero, the most trusted right hand of the Conde in your past life. And Christine is my sister; she was your childhood friend.”

Myda and Dr. Santos stepped forward to complete the puzzle. “I am Myda Navarro,” Myda said. “I was Danny’s sister in that era. I was sent by the Conde to watch over you, Ate Mycka.”

Danny looked at them, bewildered. “How are you all still alive? This is the year 2026. You’d be over a hundred years old. How do you still look so young?”

“As I said, I am your older brother, Chief Jacinto Santos,” the doctor explained.

“We are over a hundred years old because vampires are real, Mycka,” Myan revealed calmly. “But don’t worry-we don’t drink the blood of animals or humans like you see in movies. We feed on negative human emotions.”

“Feeding on emotions? Seriously?” Danny asked sarcastically.

“Yes, Danilo-for that was your name back then,” Myda snapped, clearly annoyed by his tone.

“If we were vampires too, how did we die?” Mycka asked. Before Christine could answer, Myan’s expression shifted.

“Is there a soul with you in this room?” Myan asked.

Mycka and Danny suddenly remembered Tanya. “Tanya, are you here?” Mycka called out.

“Show yourself!” Myan commanded. From behind Christine, Tanya materialized. Her face was bloodied as she moved closer to them.

“I followed Rex because she was the only one who could help me, but it seems she is the one who needs help now,” Tanya whispered.

“Where is Rexxy?” Myan asked.

“I followed her and the woman who took her. They are in a place where everyone wears old clothes, just like yours. Then-wait. Miss Rex is calling me!” In a flash, Tanya’s spirit vanished.

“You could talk to her?” Mycka asked Myan.

“Yes. I think I know where Rexxy is. We need to get her back before they take her abilities,” Myan said, her face grim.

The Mission to Santa Helena

Dr. Santos and Myda stood up. “We’re ready,” they said in unison.

“Myda, you stay here,” Myan ordered. “Jacinto and I will go to Santa Helena. If we don’t make it back, you must protect the reincarnations of the Witch and the Vampire.”

“You can count on us,” Christine promised.

“Wait, I’m coming with you,” Mycka insisted. “I can’t just sit here.”

“Me too,” Danny added. “I have to save Ate Rex. Besides, I have powers. I’ve faced Jean before.”

“Please,” Myda teased, glancing at Dr. Santos. “Jacinto faced Jean too, but that was a… different kind of battle.”

Christine chuckled softly, remembering how she and Myda had to intervene when Jean tried to poison Dr. Santos’ mind in his office.

“Why are you smiling, Christine?” Mycka asked.

“Nothing. We should get back to the hospital. Dr. Santiago has been looking for you,” Christine said, showing Mycka a text message.

“Right, my phone is dead,” Mycka realized. “Danny, go home. Don’t follow Dr. Santos. Let’s just trust that they can bring Rex back.”

The Siege of Santa Helena

The Master’s Ambition

“Tie that woman up!” the man barked, his voice echoing through the stone halls of the estate.

Jean looked at him, her jaw tight. “And what of my freedom, Senior? When will I be released from this debt?”

“Wait. Once I have obtained what I desire, I will not hesitate to give you what you want. But for now, my power is still incomplete,” the man replied coldly.

Jean bowed her head, but her fists were clenched so hard her knuckles turned white. Her master glanced at her hands, a smirk of annoyance touching his lips.

“Do not waste your strength on anger, Jean. They are coming,” he remarked, turning his gaze toward the mist-shrouded horizon.

“Who, Senior?” Jean asked.

“The ones sent by the Conde to save his daughter. It doesn’t matter how many times they reincarnate Rexxy-I will always find her. I will always know who she is.”

The Infiltration

Moments later, Myan and Dr. Santos arrived at the outskirts of the town. They didn’t even have time to breathe before they were intercepted by a group of armed guards.

With preternatural speed, Myan and Jacinto moved like shadows. One by one, the guards fell before they could even draw their weapons. The movements of the vampires were a blur of lethal grace.

“Jacinto, take the rear. I’ll handle the front,” Myan commanded, her eyes glowing with a faint, predatory light.

The doctor nodded and took off at a speed no human could ever hope to match. Meanwhile, Myan stood before the main entrance. With a wave of her hand, she manifested a perfect duplicate of herself-an illusion to draw the enemy’s fire-as she prepared to storm the stronghold.

To be continued…

CHAPTER EIGHT: The Escape from the Past

Rex stirred, her vision blurry as she found herself staring at her reflection in a large, ornate mirror. Her hands and feet were bound tight. She scanned the room, noting the heavy antique furniture and the suffocating atmosphere of a bygone era.

It was as if she had been dropped directly into the past.

The memories flooded back. “Jean?” she whispered, the name tasting like bitter betrayal. She remembered everything leading up to her losing consciousness and Jean bringing her to this godforsaken place.

Suddenly, the sound of rhythmic footsteps echoed from the hallway, approaching her door. Rex quickly squeezed her eyes shut, leaning her head back to feign unconsciousness.

“Hurry up, before the Senior notices you’re missing from the kitchen,” a man’s voice urged as he ushered a woman into the room.

“Close the door. Signal me if the Spanish guards are coming,” the woman replied, her voice low and urgent. She hurried to Rex’s side, placing a bowl of porridge on the table. She began tapping Rex’s shoulder gently.

“Rexxy? Wake up! It isn’t time for you to return to Santa Helena yet,” she urged.

Rex slowly opened her eyes.

“Finally, you’re awake.” The woman leaned in closer. “How did Senior Ronnel catch you? No, it doesn’t matter now. I’m getting you out of here.” She pulled a sharp knife from the folds of her dress.

As she began cutting the ropes, Rex whispered, “Thank you… Ate?”

“My name is Renalyn. I was your mother’s dearest friend,” the woman replied.

“Where am I? Why is everyone dressed like this? And I heard you mention Spanish guards… it’s 2026, yet it feels like the colonial era here. I don’t understand,” Rex stammered.

“We know. But here in Santa Helena, time does not move because of a curse. We are prisoners of this loop, unable to cross over into your modern time. Only the Senior and a few of his chosen men have the power to travel between eras,” Renalyn explained quickly.

Once the restraints fell away, Renalyn pulled Rex toward a hidden exit. “Wait-before you go, you must know that your mother and father love you very much. They wanted you to have this before they were consumed by the curse.” She handed Rex an intricate necklace.

“Hurry! The guards will realize the prisoner is gone any second!” the man at the door hissed.

“Go, Rexxy! Head North through that forest. My sister, Rea, is waiting for you there. She will help you return to your own time. Look for a mansion in the northern clearing,” Renalyn instructed, giving Rex a firm push toward the tree line just as the sound of boots hit the floorboards nearby.

“Until we meet again, my goddaughter. This is not the end,” Renalyn whispered.

Moments later, the Spanish guards burst into the room. Renalyn collapsed to the floor, pretending to be unconscious. The guard glared at the man standing by the door.

“¿Qué le sucedió? ¿Y dónde está el cautivo? (What happened to her? And where is the captive?)” the guard demanded.

The man pointed frantically toward the opposite window. “The captive used magic on her! She fled that way!”

Without a second thought, the guards sprinted in the direction he pointed, away from the forest where Rex was hiding.

The Hybrid’s Destiny

Justice for Tanya

Back in the present, Myda and Christine placed a white envelope on the table. Inside were the documents concerning the case of Tanya Sandoval.

“It’s closed,” Christine announced as she sat across from a dazed Mycka. “Myda and I gave the dashcam to the police. The evidence against Tanya’s ex-boyfriend is rock solid.”

Myda sat beside Mycka, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. “Ate Miks, are you okay?”

Mycka let out a long, heavy sigh. “I still can’t wrap my head around all of this.”

Christine reached out and held Mycka’s hand. “We know it’s hard to accept. But we need Rexxy to break the curse. Our time has long since passed, but you and Rex still have a chance to move forward-not as a witch or a vampire, but as yourselves.”

“Ate Christine is right,” Myda added. “Only the two of us have found a way to cross into this era. Many others are still trapped in Santa Helena, and they are all counting on your sister.”

“If I really am a witch,” Mycka asked, “how can Rex and I break a curse that has lasted this long?”

“Rexxy is the only one who carries the mixed blood of both a Vampire and a Witch. She is the-” Christine stopped abruptly, her eyes darting around the convenience store. A cold shiver of danger filled the air.

“What is it, Tine?” Mycka asked, sensing the shift.

“I feel her too, Ate Tine. We have to leave, now!” Myda urged.

“Who? Who’s here?”

“Jean. She’s here,” Christine answered, quickly grabbing her things. Just then, Mycka’s phone buzzed-a call from Dr. Santiago. They didn’t wait to answer; they hurried out of the store, heading back toward the safety of the hospital.

The Standoff at Santa Helena

Inside the ancestral house in Santa Helena, Myan and Dr. Santos stood their ground. Jacinto held a man tightly while Myan aimed her pistol directly at the man’s head, facing the Senior.

“Bring Rexxy out,” Myan commanded, her voice cold as steel. “Unless you want to see your brother’s head painted on the floor.”

“What are you talking about, General Caballero?” the Senior sneered, unfazed. “The Conde’s daughter is not here.”

“I don’t believe you. I’ll count to five,” Myan threatened. “If she isn’t here by then, your brother dies!”

“Go ahead, kill him. I don’t care,” the Senior replied, casually taking a sip of his wine.

“What kind of brother are you?” Dr. Santos barked, disgusted. “You’d sacrifice your own blood for your selfish ambitions?”

“What else is new?” the Senior retorted.

Myan was about to pull the trigger when a guard burst into the room, gasping for breath. “Senior! The prisoner has escaped!”

The room went silent. Myan and Jacinto exchanged a quick, knowing look. Enraged, the Senior grabbed the guard’s rifle and shot the messenger dead on the spot.

“See? She’s not here. She escaped!” the Senior roared. “Now get out of my sight!”

Jacinto shoved the hostage aside, and he and Myan vanished into the shadows, moving quickly to find Rex before the Senior’s men could.

The White Mansion

Rex trekked through the northern forest, her breath hitching when she finally saw it through the trees: a grand, pristine white mansion.

“This must be the place Renalyn mentioned,” she whispered, exhausted but determined. She picked up her pace, heading toward the iron gates.

Inside the mansion, a woman stood on the veranda, her eyes fixed on the forest. she wore an elegant kimono, her presence both calm and powerful.

“She is arriving,” the woman said softly.

“Who is arriving?” another woman asked, stepping up beside her.

“Rexxy. The daughter of the Conde of Santa Helena.”

To be continued…

CHAPTER NINE: The Sanctuary in the North

Rex finally reached the gates of the white mansion, her breath coming in ragged gasps. As she stepped into the courtyard, she was met by two women: one dressed in an elegant kimono, and the other with striking, golden hair.

“Welcome back to Santa Helena, Rexxy!” the woman in the kimono greeted her warmly.

Rex instinctively glanced over her shoulder, checking the dark tree line to ensure no one had followed her. The woman noticed her anxiety and stepped forward to calm her.

“They cannot follow you here, Rexxy. You are in a safe place now,” she assured her.

The woman extended her hand in a gesture of friendship and introduced herself. “I am Rea, and this is my sister, Princess. Come, you look exhausted. It is best that you rest for a while.”

Rex forced a small smile, but her mind was still racing with questions. “Why is Miss Renalyn separated from the two of you?” she asked, her voice weary.

Rea and Princess exchanged a knowing look before Princess answered. “We sent our sister, Renalyn, there to keep a close watch on Senior Ronnel’s every move. We knew your journey would be long and difficult, Rexxy. My sister and I have prepared something for you-a special tea that will wash away your exhaustion.”

Rex managed another smile as a sign of gratitude. She knew her body was at its limit; the long trek through the cursed forest had drained every ounce of her strength. As she followed them inside, the cool air of the mansion felt like a balm to her soul, but the weight of the necklace in her pocket reminded her that the battle was far from over.

The Gateway Dilemma

Back in the present, May Ann and Dr. Santos finally returned, their faces grim. Mycka and Danny rushed to meet them, their anxiety reaching a breaking point.

“Where is Ate Rex?” Danny demanded.

“Where is my sister?” Mycka added, her voice trembling.

The two immortals exchanged a heavy glance before May Ann spoke. “Has Rexxy not returned here yet?”

“Senior Ronnel said she escaped,” Dr. Santos added. “We assumed she might have found her way back to this time.”

Christine stepped forward, holding a cup of coffee, her expression thoughtful. “Rex knows nothing of magic or how any of this works. It’s not easy for someone like Mycka or Rex to cross from the modern era back to the past. Someone-one of us-needs to act as a bridge for them to travel back and forth.”

“If that’s the case, Jacinto,” May Ann said, looking at Dr. Santos, “then Rexxy is still trapped in Santa Helena.”

“We have to go back,” Dr. Santos insisted. “We have to find her and hope she’s safe.”

“No,” Christine countered. “Myda and I will go. I know a hidden passage that will keep us out of Senior Ronnel’s sight.”

“If you’re going back to that hellhole, you’re taking us with you!” Mycka interjected. “Danny and I can’t just sit here and do nothing.”

Myda stepped toward Mycka, placing a firm hand on her shoulder. “Ate Miks, you can’t. If you and Danny enter Santa Helena while Rexxy is there, it could accidentally trigger-or break-the Conde’s curse prematurely. The consequences would be catastrophic.”

“I won’t let your father’s sacrifices go to waste,” Christine added solemnly. “We will go. I promise you, we won’t return until Rexxy is safe with us.”

Danny looked at his sister and sighed. “They’re right, Ate. We have to trust them.”

A Debt of the Past

Inside the White Mansion in Santa Helena, Rea and Princess continued to treat Rex like royalty.

“Thank you, Miss Rea and Princess,” Rex said, holding a piece of apple. “This is more than enough. You’ve been so kind.”

“It is we who should thank you,” Rea replied softly. “If not for your father, we would never have known freedom. I remember the night you fled… you were so young, and you refused the man your father had chosen for you. I felt for you. My own father married me off to a Japanese man I did not love. I had no choice but to obey.”

“Arranged marriage?” Rex muttered. “Man, the drama back then was real.”

Rea tilted her head. “Pardon? I do not understand.”

“Sister,” Princess chimed in, smiling at Rex. “Rexxy comes from a new time. Perhaps that is how they speak now. Am I right, Rexxy?”

“Yes, exactly. Sorry about that,” Rex replied with a sheepish grin.

“You have no need to apologize to us,” Rea said kindly. “For now, you must rest.”

A maid in a crisp uniform entered the room. “The guest chamber is ready, Ma’am,” she announced.

“Carlotta, take Rexxy to her room immediately,” Rea commanded, her tone suddenly shifting to one of urgency. “I feel the Senior approaching with his men. Move quickly!”

The Senior’s Arrival

Rex followed Carlotta upstairs just as Rea and Princess stepped out onto the veranda to face the gate. Their intuition was correct-Senior Ronnel arrived shortly after, flanked by his armed guards.

“Good day, Rea, Princess,” the Senior greeted them, his eyes scanning the mansion with suspicion. “Have you heard the news? The daughter of the Conde has returned to Santa Helena.”

“We have heard the rumors,” Rea replied coolly. “But why should we believe them? I haven’t seen any sign of the woman you’re looking for. Is that all you came for? To gossip?”

“If you’re looking for her, she isn’t here,” Princess added, her voice laced with feigned anger. “And if I ever did lay eyes on her, I’d kill her myself for the trouble she’s caused.”

Senior Ronnel smiled, seemingly satisfied by their hostility. “Very well. I won’t overstay my welcome. I will find her myself. But remember this: if you find her before I do, I will release Renalyn from her service. It’s a race, then.”

The Luxury of a Gilded Cage

As Rex and Carlotta walked toward the guest room, Rex was startled by the maid’s sudden whisper.

“You shouldn’t have come here, Binibini . This mansion is not safe for you,” Carlotta said, her voice barely audible as she walked behind Rex.

Rex stopped and turned. “What do you mean?”

“Nothing. Just rest,” Carlotta replied quickly, avoiding eye contact. She pushed the large double doors open, and Rex gasped. Before her stood a massive, ornate bed with sheer white curtains fluttering by the windows.

“It’s like I’m in a five-star hotel,” Rex whispered, momentarily mesmerized by the grandeur.

“I’ll leave you now,” Carlotta said, her hand lingering on the door handle. “Whatever happens, do not leave this room. I will help you find a way back to the Present.” With that, she closed the door, leaving Rex alone on the soft, velvet mattress.

The Unexpected Traveler

Back at the gateway, as Myda and Christine prepared to vanish into the past, Mycka’s stubbornness took over. Just as the air began to shimmer, she grabbed onto them, pulling herself into the vortex.

“Ate!” Danny cried out, but it was too late. Dr. Santos and May Ann tried to reach for her, but the three women had already vanished.

When they materialized in Santa Helena, Mycka stood frozen. The world was a living painting of the 19th century-the cobblestones, the gas lamps, and the people in their heavy, traditional baro’t saya and coats.

“Why did you come, Mycka?” Christine hissed, her eyes darting around.

“Ate Miks, what are you doing here?” Myda added, her voice laced with panic.

“I wasn’t going to let you search for my sister alone,” Mycka replied firmly, though her heart raced at the sheer “realness” of the past.

The Senior’s Intuition

Not far away, in a dark study, Senior Ronnel felt a sudden surge in the air-a vibration of magic that shouldn’t exist in his realm.

“We may have failed to find Rexxy so far, but I know she is still within our reach,” he murmured to his shadow.

His right-hand man stepped forward. “I hope you are not mistaken, Senior. We need her if we are to finally cross over into the Present.”

“Fortune favors us,” Senior Ronnel smiled thinly. “I feel another presence… another child of the Conde has entered my domain. The stars are finally aligning.”

A Final Farewell

In the mansion, Rex drifted into a deep sleep, only to be awakened by a cold touch on her cheek. She opened her eyes and gasped.

“Tanya?”

The ghost of the lawyer smiled sadly. “Miss Rex, I came to thank you for everything you did for me. I wanted to help you get home, but I can no longer stay. The light is calling me.”

Tanya’s form began to fade into a soft, golden mist. But before she vanished completely, she leaned in one last time. “Carlotta is right. Be careful, Rex. Trust no one.”

With those final words, Tanya dissipated into the air. Rex sat up, her heart pounding. The sanctuary of the mansion suddenly felt like a trap.

The Puppet’s Guard

Mycka, Myda, and Christine finally reached the perimeter of Rea’s mansion, but they ducked behind a stone wall when they spotted a figure standing by the gate. It looked exactly like Senior Ronnel.

“Careful,” Christine whispered, holding Mycka back. “That is not him. It’s a puppet-a magical construct. The real Senior is likely hiding nearby, waiting for us to make a move. Stay alert, Myda.”

Myda nodded, her vampire senses sharpening as she scanned the darkness for the real threat.

To be continued…

CHAPTER TEN: The Heirloom of the Past

Rex’s Reflection

Since I arrived in this ancient era, everything has felt strangely familiar. Am I truly the woman they call Rexxy?

If I am her, then this place is a death trap. It’s almost funny… I have no idea what they want from me or why I’m so important to this world.

These were the questions swirling in Rex’s mind as she stared into the depths of the antique mirror. Her thoughts were interrupted by the soft click of the door. Carlotta entered the room, her expression unreadable.

“You shouldn’t have come back here,” Carlotta said softly, meticulously arranging fresh flowers in a vase on the table. “Using your abilities was a mistake. It allowed the Senior to track you. All the efforts we made to save you in the past… they might all go to waste now.”

“I don’t understand you, Carlotta,” Rex replied, turning away from the mirror. “I don’t know why they abducted me. I don’t even know what I’m supposed to be to these people.”

Before Carlotta could respond, the doors swung open again, revealing Rea and Princess.

“Rexxy, they are here,” Princess announced, a small, knowing smile playing on her lips.

“Who? Who is here?” Rex asked, her heart skipping a beat.

“Your sister, Mycka,” Rea answered. “She is with the Conde’s most loyal followers.”

“Follow us,” Princess commanded, turning to lead the way toward the grand hall.

As Rex moved to follow the two sisters, Carlotta suddenly caught her arm. With a quick, furtive movement, she pressed a silver ring into Rex’s palm.

“What is this for?” Rex whispered.

Carlotta pressed a finger to her lips, signaling for silence. She leaned in close, her voice a ghost of a whisper. “This was your late mother’s ring. I failed to give it to you in your past life, but I am giving it to you now. It will protect you.”

Clutching the ring tightly, Rex nodded and hurried after Rea and Princess, her mind racing with a new sense of urgency.

The Witch Returns

At Senior Ronnel’s residence, a member of the Guardia Civil bowed before him. “The Conde’s daughter was not at the Japanese sisters’ mansion, Senior. Our men searched every corner. There was no trace of her.”

“It no longer matters,” Senior Ronnel replied, a dark smirk forming as a deck of cards began to levitate and swirl in front of him. “The gateway to the Present has been breached. I can feel the Witch’s presence here.”

As he spoke, the guard stepped forward, her form shimmering and shifting until she transformed into a woman. She was dressed in pure white, adorned with a wide-brimmed hat.

“Finally,” she murmured, waving her hand with an air of cold authority. “We are free to move between eras as we please.”

“Hanna,” Senior Ronnel said, standing up. “You’ve been gone a long time. Where is your disciple, Jean?”

“That girl is no longer necessary,” Hanna replied, removing her hat to reveal eyes filled with ancient malice. “I am here to collect a debt from the bloodlines that owe me.”

Senior Ronnel laughed. “A Witch and a Vampire against a hybrid of both? How entertaining!”

“Once we harvest the abilities of the Conde’s chosen child,” Hanna added, “we will become invincible. We will rewrite the past so that the ‘Chosen One’ is never even born.”

The Cost of Impulse

Meanwhile, at the White Mansion, Mycka, Myda, and Christine were preparing to leave with Rex.

“Thank you for sheltering my sister,” Mycka said gratefully to Rea and Princess.

However, Princess’s expression was hard, her eyebrow arched in disapproval. “You are the Witch of Rexxy’s bloodline. Why did you force your way into Santa Helena? Do you not realize that your presence here, before the appointed time, has forced a gateway open?”

Rea turned her anger toward Myda and Christine. “Did May Ann and Jacinto not warn you? They are the Generals assigned to guard the Present. How could they let this happen?”

“Don’t blame them,” Mycka interjected, stepping forward. “I forced my way through. They didn’t even know I followed them until we were already here.”

Suddenly, Renalyn burst into the courtyard, breathless and pale. “It’s not just the gateway! Hanna has returned to Santa Helena. This is a disaster!”

Rea and Princess stared at Mycka with grim eyes. “Because of your impatience, even your own time is now in peril,” Rea said. She swept her hand through the air, and a swirling portal tore open behind Rex and Mycka.

“We are deeply sorry,” Christine whispered.

“Apologies won’t save us now,” Renalyn barked. “Go! Protect Rexxy at all costs. They cannot be allowed to take the power of the Prophesied Warrior!” Renalyn gestured sharply, and the portal’s vacuum pulled Rex and Mycka inside, whisking them back to the Present.

The Secret of Anghelo

Myda and Christine remained behind for a moment, facing the sisters. “Are you going to punish us?” Myda asked softly.

“No,” Princess replied, her voice cold. “But you must double your vigilance. Especially over Rexxy. She must never find out that it was Anghelo who led her to her ruin in the first place.”

“We understand,” Christine said, her face pale. “We will report this to General Caballero and Jacinto immediately.”

With a flicker of shadow, Myda and Christine vanished, leaving the Japanese sisters to face the coming storm of Santa Helena.

The Master’s Hounds

Back at Senior Ronnel’s mansion, the air was thick with malice.

“Before you begin spreading chaos, Hanna, you will need the help of another one of my servants,” Senior Ronnel announced. The heavy doors swung open, revealing a man clad entirely in black.

“Jolino? From the Clan of Wolves?” Hanna arched an eyebrow in disdain. “Why did you release the Conde’s former pup? Can he truly be of use to our mission?”

The man smirked, his eyes flashing with a predatory light. “Indeed I can. I know the weaknesses of my former masters better than anyone. Besides, what can a vampire like you do? Bite them on the neck? Such an outdated style.”

“Don’t test me, dog!” Hanna hissed, her fangs lengthening instantly. In response, Jolino’s body contorted as he transformed into a massive, snarling wolf.

Senior Ronnel sighed, rubbing his temples in annoyance. He raised his hand, and through the power of his enchanted necklace, he inflicted a crushing wave of pain upon both of them. Jolino collapsed, shifting back into his human form, while Hanna clutched her head in agony.

“If you two do not stop, I will be the one to kill you myself,” Senior Ronnel warned coldly, returning to his seat.

The Revelation of Jacinto

Back in the Present, the group gathered to discuss the rising threat.

“This is grave news,” May Ann said, her face grim. “That cunning witch has escaped her prison.”

Suddenly, a large wolf bounded into the room, its fur shimmering before it slowly transformed into a man.

“Doc Santos?” Mycka gasped, her eyes wide with shock.

“It’s not just Hanna, Myan,” Jacinto (Doc Santos) said, standing before them completely unclothed. “Even my own kind-those who were victims of the Great Betrayal-have returned.”

Myda quickly grabbed a blanket and threw it at him, shielding her eyes. “Ben! Cover yourself! We are all women here!”

“Wait… I thought you were all vampires and witches?” Rex asked, looking back and forth between them. “Why am I only finding out now that Doc Santos is a werewolf?”

May Ann, Christine, and Myda looked at each other, then at Jacinto. The silence was heavy; they didn’t know where to begin explaining the tangled web of their history.

Christine stepped closer to Rex and spoke softly. “You are special, Rexxy. It is because you are the only one who carries the blood of both a Vampire and a Witch. And not just any ordinary bloodlines… something far more ancient. We cannot explain everything yet, but the time will come.”

To be continued…

CHAPTER ELEVEN: DEATH AND INSPECTOR RED

CHAPTER ELEVEN

“Ate Miks, is Danny already at school?” Rex asked his sister.

“Yes. Come here and eat your breakfast,” Mycka replied, her eyes scanning his face. “By the way… how are you feeling?”

“I’m fine, Ate,” Rex said as he pulled out a chair and sat at the table. “But I still can’t wrap my head around everything that happened.”

“Even I find it hard to believe. What matters is that you’re here now,” Mycka said firmly. “Just stay alert. I know Myan is looking out for you.”

“But what about you? And Danny?” Rex’s voice was laced with worry. “You’re all in danger because of me.”

“We aren’t Senior’s targets, Rex. You are,” Mycka pointed out. She paused, noticing him fixing his things. “Are you heading to class now?”

“Yes, I need to go. I haven’t been able to write for days,” Rex answered. “Don’t worry, Ate. Mercedes will be watching over me.”

“Just be careful. You know how to call them if something goes wrong,” Mycka reminded him. Rex simply nodded and began to eat.

Meanwhile, at the university where Danny was studying…

“Is that Ate Rex? What is she doing here?” Danny muttered to himself. He watched as Rex walked toward the woods, appearing dazed and out of it.

Sensing something was wrong, Danny immediately followed her into the thicket. When they reached the heart of the forest, he finally called out.

“Wait, Ate Rex! What are you doing here?” Danny asked, stopping a few feet behind her.

He reached out to grab her shoulder, but a sudden, piercing noise tore through the air. The sound was so deafening it felt like his mind was shattering. Gritting his teeth against the pain, he forced himself to approach her. But when the figure finally turned around, Danny froze.

“Who are you?” he gasped, his strength rapidly fading.

The woman smiled—a cold, predatory curve of the lips. “So, you must be the brother Rexxy has in this new life? Senior was right. You are weak… and far too easy to fool.”

With a flick of her hand, an invisible force seized Danny, hoisting him into the air. He hung there, helpless.

She isn’t Ate Rex, Danny realized. She must be one of Senior’s minions that Ate Mycka warned us about.

But he refused to go down without a fight. Focusing his mind, Danny commanded a heavy stone from the ground to fly. It struck the woman hard in the back.

“Agh!” she shrieked.

The invisible grip snapped, and Danny hit the ground hard. The deafening noise finally ceased.

“Who are you?” Danny demanded, struggling to stand.

“I am Hanna—the most powerful Vampire-Witch hybrid. And I am the one who will end you,” she hissed. In a blur of motion, she vanished and reappeared directly behind him.

As she lunged for his neck, Danny desperately tried to project a psychic scream directly into her mind. It was a fatal mistake. Before his power could take effect, her fangs sank deep into his throat.

Danny’s body went limp, his muscles refusing to obey. He could only lie there as she drained the life from him. Finally, she pulled away, letting his body drop into the dirt.

“Magic tricks don’t work on me, kid,” Hanna sneered, wiping a trail of blood from her stained lips.

Meanwhile, at the hospital where Myda lay resting…

She jolted awake from a recurring nightmare, gasping for air.

“Danny!” she cried out, bolting upright in her bed.

At that same moment, a sudden, heavy dread settled in the chests of Rex and Mycka. A violent gust of wind swept through the room, and with a sharp clatter , Danny’s framed photograph fell from the wall and shattered on the floor.

“Ate… I have a terrible feeling about this,” Rex said, his voice trembling with unshed tears.

“We’re going to the university. Now,” Mycka commanded, grabbing her car keys in a blur of motion.

Back at the woods…

“So easy to kill,” Hanna sneered, looking down at Danny’s limp body.

CRACK! A gunshot echoed through the trees, and Hanna shrieked as a silver bullet tore through her arm.

“Vile outsider! Who are you?” Hanna hissed, clutching her bleeding limb. She glared at a woman dressed in striking red, who stood tall with a smoking gun in hand.

“A foe of the darkness. I am Inspector Red,” the woman replied. She raised her hand toward the sky, and a gleaming silver dagger materialized in her palm.

“It can’t be…” Hanna stammered, her arrogance replaced by visible terror as she backed away.

“You won’t escape me!” the mysterious woman shouted, lunging forward with lethal speed. But with a frantic wave of her hand, Hanna vanished into thin air, leaving only the scent of ozone behind.

The woman in red rushed to Danny’s side, checking for a pulse.

“No heartbeat,” she whispered. She pulled out a rosary and pressed it against his chest. “Why isn’t it glowing? This means his soul isn’t even lingering here anymore…”

Moments later, Mycka and Rex arrived at the campus, frantically searching for their brother. They spotted a student nearby.

“Ate Rex? Do you remember me?” the girl asked.

“Elisa? Have you seen Danny?” Rex asked urgently.

“Yes, I thought he was with you? I saw him following you into the woods behind the university earlier,” Elisa said, looking confused.

“Elisa, please, show us exactly where!” Mycka pleaded.

“Of course… but I really thought it was you he was with.”

Without another word, they raced toward the treeline. Their hearts sank when they found Danny lying motionless on the ground, guarded by the woman in red.

“Who are you? What did you do to my brother?” Rex wailed, the wind beginning to howl around them.

The woman stood up slowly. “I am Cristine. They call me Inspector Red. I am a Bellator.”

“Did you do this? Are you one of Senior’s monsters?” Rex’s voice cracked with rage. Mycka stood frozen, her eyes fixed on the jagged bite marks on Danny’s neck.

“I don’t know who this ‘Senior’ is. I am searching for my parents, I need to go to—”

Cristine was cut off as she began to lift off the ground, held by an invisible force.

Rex’s eyes had turned a predatory, feral red. In a horrific yet majestic display of power, his bones shifted and his skin tore away until a massive, snow-white wolf stood in his place. Elisa screamed, paralyzed by the sight, while Mycka watched in horror.

Suddenly, Mycka remembered the warnings of Dr. Santos and Myan.

“Three bloodlines in one body. The one destined to end humanity,” Myan had warned.

“Our father was a werewolf and a warlock, while our mother was a Duchess and a pure-blooded Vampire,” Dr. Santos had explained. “You must touch Rex’s head when he turns. Remind him of who he truly is—Rex Reina Morales. Only you and Danny can do this, for you are the reincarnated ones.”

Steeled by the memory, Mycka rushed toward the white wolf.

“Rex, wake up! Don’t let the anger consume you!” she cried, pressing her palms against the wolf’s head.

A powerful jolt of electricity surged through them both. Slowly, the wolf shrank back into human form, and the force holding Inspector Red snapped, sending her tumbling to the ground.

“Monsters!” Elisa shrieked.

Inspector Red looked at Mycka and nodded. “I’ll handle this.”

She moved swiftly, placing a hand on Elisa’s forehead. “Everything you saw was nothing but a dream. You never saw us here.”

Elisa’s eyes glazed over; she nodded blankly and wandered back toward the campus.

Rex lay unconscious and naked on the forest floor. Inspector Red draped a cloak over him.

“Inspector Red, thank you. Who… who killed my brother?” Mycka asked, her voice hollow.

“I don’t know her name. I was only passing through when I saw the vampire attacking him,” Cristine explained.

“May I… may I touch your hand?” Mycka asked.

Cristine agreed. Through the contact, Mycka saw the vision of the attack—she saw Hanna’s cruelty and how this mysterious woman truly tried to save Danny.

“You aren’t an enemy. Thank you. I am Mycka, and this is Rex. He… he can’t control his power yet. I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright,” Cristine replied. “Be careful. The darkness is growing stronger.”

“How can we repay you, Cristine?”

“There is no need. I failed to save your brother. I have prayed for his soul… but I cannot stay. I must find my parents.”

Meanwhile, in the present time, Princess had finally arrived.

“Where do I start? How will I find Rexxy here? I have such wonderful news for him,” she murmured, watching the strange metal carriages called ‘jeeps’ pass by.

Suddenly, a car screeched to a halt in front of her.

“Miss, are you trying to kill yourself? Please, not on my car! Move back!” a man shouted from the window.

“Welnard?” Princess gasped.

She was so stunned she didn’t see the motorcycle swerving toward her. The man leaped out of his car, grabbing her and pulling her to safety. They tumbled to the pavement together—and in the chaos, their lips accidentally met.

To be continued…

CHAPTER TWELVE: THE DREAM

The house was flooded with tears over Danny’s death.

“Tita…” Rex started, reaching out to embrace his stepmother. But instead of a hug, he was met with a stinging slap across the face—a sound so sharp it stunned Doc Santos, Myan, Myda, and Princess.

“If it weren’t for you and your… your weirdness , my son would still be alive!” Danny’s mother sobbed, her voice trembling with hatred.

As she raised her hand to strike Rex a second time, Mycka stepped in. She caught her stepmother’s wrist mid-air, her eyes flashing with ice.

“Excuse me? Rex wasn’t even there when our brother died,” Mycka said firmly. “And with all due respect, Eloida, you are the only one who has never accepted us into this family. We loved Danny as our own. Do not dare lecture us or blame us for what happened to him.”

“Ate, stop. She’s right… it’s because I’m weird—” Rex tried to interject, but his words were cut short by the arrival of their father.

“What is this, Rex, Mycka, Eloida? Why are you causing a scene at the wake of my son—your brother?” their father demanded, his voice heavy with grief.

Mycka opened her mouth to argue, but Rex gently stopped her.

“It’s nothing, Papa. I’ll just go upstairs,” Rex said quietly, retreating up the stairs with Mycka close behind.

Left at the wake, Doc Santos and the others whispered among themselves.

“That woman is heartless. This isn’t Rexy’s fault; it’s the work of Senior Ronnel’s minions,” Myda hissed.

“Keep your voices down,” Doc Santos cautioned. “We must show respect for your brother from your past life. Let’s not add to the chaos.”

“Jacinto is right,” Myan added. “Avoid making a scene in front of these people.”

They nodded, but Myda couldn’t help but ask, “Will Danny be reincarnated again?”

“We don’t know,” Princess replied solemnly. “Remember, it took us years to find these two. For now, while Mycka and Rexy are still alive, we must help them understand everything and prepare them for the coming change.”

Meanwhile, in Sta. Helena…

“Senior, one of the Chosen One’s siblings is dead,” Hanna reported with a wicked grin.

“Excellent. It will be much easier to break the Chosen One now,” Senior Ronnel replied, smiling. “But stay vigilant. General Caballero and Jacinto’s men are everywhere. It won’t be a walk in the park, but we are making progress.”

“And where is that useless mutt?” Hanna sneered.

A massive black wolf stepped out from the shadows behind her.

“Ah, so you’re here,” she mocked as her eyebrows arched. “How embarrassing for an ‘Alpha.’ Is it an Alpha’s job to hide here in Sta. Helena while the gates have already opened?”

The black wolf shifted, his bones cracking as he took human form.

“You talk too much for someone who only managed one kill,” Jolino snapped. “I destroyed the Japanese Fortress. And I have the traitor in my clutches.”

“Rea? Where is she? I want to see her,” Hanna demanded.

As they spoke, Renalyn stood nearby, listening intently. They couldn’t see her; she had the ability to turn her physical form into nothing more than a passing breeze. However, Jolino’s nose twitched.

“Is someone listening? Senior, are we alone?” Jolino asked, sniffing the air.

“Only the three of us are in this room,” Senior Ronnel answered.

Renalyn began to back away slowly, but her foot caught a heavy book, sending it crashing to the floor. Jolino’s eyes darted toward the sound. Her heart hammered against her ribs as she bolted from the room.

“I can smell your fear. Who are you?” Hanna called out.

Fortunately, Renalyn managed to get far enough from the library. Gasping for breath, she reached the kitchen, where her companion noticed her distress.

“Ate Rena, are you okay?” the girl asked.

“I’m… I’m fine. Just give me some water,” Renalyn managed to say.

“What happened? Is it true they’re holding Rea prisoner?” the girl whispered. Suddenly, Senior Ronnel, Jolino, and Hanna entered the kitchen.

“You seem out of breath, Renalyn. Where have you been?” Senior Ronnel asked, his eyes narrowing.

Renalyn and her companion shared a frantic look before the girl stepped in to save her.

“I sent her to the forest, Senior, to gather medicinal herbs and ingredients for your dinner,” Jona lied quickly.

“It’s true, Jona sent me. But I failed to find anything for my ailment,” Renalyn added, playing along.

“In that case, prepare a feast. We are having a celebration,” Senior Ronnel announced.

“A celebration? For what occasion?” Jona asked. “As far as I remember, the festivities in Sta. Helena aren’t until November.”

“Don’t ask questions! Just move!” Hanna barked.

The two women bowed their heads and hurried to follow the orders.

That night…

While Rex was deep in sleep, the dreams returned. But this time, Anghelo’s face was no longer a blur; it was hauntingly clear.

“Rexxy… until we meet again,” the man whispered, his life slipping away.

In the dream, Rexxy let out a piercing scream—a cry so primal it jolted Rex awake in the real world.

“Anghelo…” Rex gasped, his body drenched in cold sweat.

He scanned the dark room, his breath hitching when his eyes landed on the corner by the cabinet. There stood Danny. His face was pale, streaked with fresh, crimson blood.

“Ate… help me,” Danny’s ghost pleaded, his voice a hollow echo.

“Danny, I’m so sorry… I couldn’t do anything to save you,” Rex sobbed, his heart breaking all over again.

Rex moved to reach for him, but in the blink of an eye, the apparition vanished into the shadows.

Left in the silence, Rex suddenly remembered Mercedes and his boss. He tried calling Mercedes first, but there was no answer—only the taunting ring of an unattended line. As he scrolled through his contacts, his phone suddenly glitched. The screen flickered, and the device began typing on its own. Rex froze, watching the phantom letters form on the screen.

“Ate, I know who killed you in your past life!” the message read.

“Who? Please, tell me!” Rex whispered to the glowing screen.

The reply was instant: “Anghelo.” “Anghelo? That’s impossible… he was my love interest. Why would he do it?” Rex asked, his mind reeling in confusion.

“I don’t know!” Danny’s message flickered before the screen went black.

Rex gripped the phone, his resolve hardening. “I need to talk to Ate Myan and Doc Santos. Right now.”

The time for running was over. “I’m ready. I’ll undergo the past life regression.”

To be continued…

CHAPTER THIRTEEN: The Past Life

“1960-1980”

Santa Helena (1960 – 1980)

I had known Gelo for as long as I could remember. Since childhood, we were inseparable. Our favorite sanctuary was the riverbank where, as children, we would spend hours catching fish and bathing in the cool waters. But our friendship was a forbidden one; my parents disapproved of him. After all, he was merely the son of one of my father’s laborers.

Eventually, his parents decided to leave Santa Helena to seek a life in Manila.

It has been eighteen years since Gelo left this place. But according to my father’s guardia sibil , Gelo and his family are finally returning to Santa Helena today. I couldn’t contain my joy. Now, I stand before my mirror as my sister meticulously styles my hair.

“Ate Lourdes, do I look beautiful?” I asked my sister, who smiled back at my reflection.

“Yes, Rexy. You are breathtaking. I’m certain everyone will be captivated by your beauty,” she replied warmly.

Before long, a firm knock came from the door. It was my father, summoning us to meet his guests.

“We’re coming out!” Ate Lourdes called back.

She paused for a second, her gaze lingering on me with a hint of hesitation.

“Why, Ate?” I asked.

“What if Papa finds out that you and Gelo have been writing to each other all this time? That you’ve already become lovers?” Ate Lourdes asked, her voice laced with worry. “Are you sure Gelo will show up today to ask for Papa’s blessing?”

I placed a steadying hand on her shoulder to calm her nerves and gave her a reassuring smile.

“Ate, just relax. I have a strong feeling that Papa will finally accept him now,” I answered.

Outside the mansion gates, Cristine, Myda, Princess, and Rea arrived. “I am eager to meet the Count’s child,” Cristine remarked. “I heard that Gelo is set to ask for her hand in marriage tonight,” Princess added.

Rea spoke in Japanese, but her companions looked confused. She sighed and shifted back to Tagalog. “I said, it’s dangerous. Senior Ronnel is free. He escaped days ago.”

“Oh no! What do we do now?” Myda asked, her voice trembling. Before they could react, General Caballero and Rexy’s brother, Jacinto, arrived.

“We will do everything to keep them from Rexy. The prophecy’s dark path must not be fulfilled,” Myan declared. “Myan is right,” Jacinto added. “We need you. You are the only ones capable of truly hurting Senior Ronnel.” The six of them shared a resolute look.

Back at the Morales Mansion…

All eyes were on the young Morales heiress. Rexy scanned the crowd until she saw Gelo approaching, a wide smile on his face. She rushed to meet her lover. “You actually came!” I told him. “Just as I promised,” the man I loved replied.

Moments later, Rexy’s father, the Count, arrived with her mother. “Get away from my daughter!” the Count roared. Gelo stood his ground. He even knelt to take my hand, but the Count pushed him back with an immense, supernatural force.

“Papa, no!” I cried, terrified. What could a mere mortal do against the strength of a Vampire? “You are special, Rexy. I will not allow a common human to end our bloodline!” my father spat, turning his back.

But Gelo stood up, his demeanor chillingly different. “I am no longer human, my Lord,” Gelo said. “Senior Ronnel helped me become like you… so that you might finally accept me.” My father turned back, shaking his head in pity. “My boy, you’ve made a terrible mistake. You’ve struck a bargain with the devil. You have no idea what you’ve traded away.”

Suddenly, the Senior himself appeared. “Such harsh words, Julio. It’s as if we don’t share the same blood,” Senior Ronnel sneered. “According to the prophecy, a child will be born with the power of three races. A Vampire…” He pointed at my father. Then he pointed at my mother. “And the bloodline of the Witch and the Werewolf.”

As the Senior stepped toward me, a woman with striking red hair blocked his path. “Do not go near my niece,” Eloida (Mycka’s past self) commanded. With a flick of her wrist, she sent the Senior flying several meters back.

“Eloida, thank God you’re here,” my mother whispered. “Elisa, get my niece out of here!” Eloida ordered.

I tried to run to my mother, but Gelo suddenly grabbed my arm and wrapped his hand around my throat. “Stand back!” Gelo threatened General Caballero and Jacinto. “One more step and I’ll kill her.”

I gasped for air, staring at him in horror. “Gelo, what are you doing? Let me go!” “I can’t, my love,” he replied with a twisted, mocking smile.

A wounded guardia sibil stumbled toward us. “My Lord… Jolino’s wolves are attacking! They’ve taken the mansion!” “What? My traitorous brother is here?” my mother cried. She transformed instantly into a massive wolf with shimmering gold fur.

“You don’t need to look for me, sister. I am here,” Jolino growled, stepping forward as a massive black wolf.

Everything became a blur of chaos and blood. The Senior had captured my father. My mother lay weak and wounded. The last thing I heard was Gelo’s cold whisper: “Goodbye.”

“Rexxxyyy!!” I screamed as I saw my brother fall to the ground, lifeless. Myan, Myda, and Cristine rushed to our side. Aunt Eloida let out a psychic scream so powerful it deafened the Senior’s men.

“Ate, move!” Danilo (Danny’s past self) yelled, pushing Myda out of the way just as a massive wooden spear pierced his chest. “Noooooo!!” Myda wailed, cradling her dying brother. “Danilo, fight! I’ll save you!” She bit her own wrist, forcing her blood into his mouth, but it was too late. He wouldn’t wake up.

Rea, Princess, and Carlotta arrived at the scene. Carlotta ran to her best friend, Elisa. “Elisa, stay with me!” “I’m going, Carlotta. Please… save Rexy. Give her this,” my mother whispered, handing over a necklace—the heirloom of her clan—before her eyes went dull.

I forced myself to transform, joining the fray with whatever strength I had left. “Where is Julio?” Eloida demanded. Myan and Princess looked around; they could no longer sense the Count. “They’re gone. I can’t feel them anymore,” Rea said, placing her hands on the earth.

Jacinto returned to Rexy’s side as Eloida tried to heal her. “Auntie, what do we do?” Jacinto asked. “There is only one way,” Aunt Eloida said, looking at the bodies of her niece and Danilo. “A Reincarnation Spell. We will shorten the process from a century to just a few decades.”

Myda approached, carrying Danilo’s body. “I’ll pay the price. I’ll be the sacrifice. Just bring my brother back.” “Gather around me,” Eloida commanded.

“This is a dangerous spell. It will cost me my life,” Eloida warned. “I will bless you so that your senses will be sharp when Rexy is reborn. You must prepare her for the right time.”

She began the incantation. She drew a great circle and placed the bodies of Rexy and Danilo inside. “Nature, I call upon you! Hear my plea!” A violent wind whipped through the area. “Return to us my niece and this boy who fell to violence. I shall close Santa Helena. No one shall find this place unless they belong here. Nature, grant my wish! Let those who died in this war be born again!”

With a final breath, she sliced her wrist, letting her blood drop into the mouths of Rexy and Danilo. As the wind died down, Aunt Eloida collapsed.

We waited for years for Rexy to return. Until one day, we felt it. “Rexxy is alive!” Princess exclaimed. “Let Jacinto find her. We will help when needed,” Rea said. “For now, follow me to the garden. Hayako! (Faster!)”

To be continued…

CHAPTER FOURTEEN : Way back home to Santa Helena

On my way home, I immediately called Ate Mycka to ask for a ride. But someone else arrived instead.

“Gelo? What are you doing here?”

He took a slow, tentative step toward me, but I held up a hand to stop him.

“Don’t come any closer. I know everything now,” I said, my voice trembling with a mix of anger and pain. “Aunt Eloida sacrificed her life because of what you did.”

He flinched and stepped back. “I want to say I’m sorry. That’s why I followed you here. I want to explain everything… I was under Senior Ronnel’s spell.”

“Just leave before Ate Mycka finds you,” I warned.

“I know where the Count is—your father,” Gelo said urgently. “I was the one who helped him when Senior’s men stormed your mansion. I regained my senses the moment you… the moment you stopped breathing.”

Before I could process his words, Ate Mycka arrived, accompanied by Princess and Rea.

“Get away from the Count’s daughter, you traitor!” Princess shrieked. A bolt of lightning crackled from her fingertips, narrowly missing Gelo as he dove out of the way.

Rea and Ate Mycka quickly grabbed my arms, pulling me back.

“Let’s go, Rea,” Ate Mycka commanded.

Rea signaled to Princess that it was time to leave. “Is it safe to use magic here?” Rea whispered.

Princess and Ate Mycka scanned the surroundings, ensuring no mundane eyes were watching. “I don’t sense anyone else nearby,” Princess confirmed.

With a swift wave of her hand, Rea cast a spell. In the blink of an eye, the world blurred, and we vanished.

When we reached the safety of the house, I immediately told Ate Mycka what Gelo had said.

“Rex, that man could be lying,” Ate Mycka said, her brow furrowed in distrust.

“Mycka is right. I know the Count is alive, but I’m not certain where in Santa Helena he is hiding,” Princess added.

“Exactly. We’ve tried searching for him, but no matter what magic we use, we find nothing. This could easily be a trap set by Anghelo,” Rea remarked, taking a calm sip from her cup of tea.

“Then let’s go find him ourselves! I’m ready,” I insisted. “I passed the trials set by Ate Myan and Kuya Jacinto. I can do this!”

Suddenly, an angel figurine on the shelf fell and shattered on its own. A chilling breeze swept through the room, and there, standing behind Ate Mycka, was the spirit of Danny.

“It’s too dangerous, Ate,” Danny’s ghost warned. “Senior Ronnel has total control over Santa Helena. I’ve been there… and Kuya Gelo was telling the truth. He has the Count, but your father is safe for now.”

“Danny… thank you,” I whispered.

“Is Danny here?” Ate Mycka asked, her eyes searching the empty air.

“Yes, Ate. Can’t you see him?”

“Even as sorceresses, Rexxy, we don’t have the power to see the souls of the departed,” Rea explained. “We can feel their presence, but we cannot see them. Only those with the werewolf bloodline possess that sight.”

“Rea is right,” Princess said, reaching out to touch my shoulder. “But if you truly want to return to Santa Helena, we will go with you. We will protect you, no matter what happens.”

“Thank you,” I said, finally feeling a glimmer of hope.

“I’ll inform Doc Santos about your plan tomorrow,” Ate Mycka concluded. “For now, we all need to get some sleep.”

The following morning…

Mycka went straight to Doc Santos’s office to discuss Rex’s plan.

“I’ll have to talk to Myan and the others about this first,” Doc Santos said tentatively.

“That won’t be necessary, Jacinto. Now, what is this I hear you discussing?” Myan’s voice cut through the air as she entered with Cristine and Myda. Mycka didn’t hesitate; she laid out the plan for their return to Santa Helena.

“Have you lost your minds, Mycka?” Myan scolded. “You are walking straight into the arms of death. If Anghelo truly has the Count and he is safe, you should be grateful and stay put.”

“How long do you plan to hide?” Mycka shot back. “Rex is ready. Even I have reclaimed my magic and ancient knowledge. We are deeply grateful that your help restored our memories of our past lives, but we cannot live in the shadows forever. Our lives are rooted in Santa Helena. It is time to take it back. If you won’t join us, we will respect that choice.”

With those final words, Mycka walked out, with Myda following close behind. Myan, Cristine, and Doc Santos were left in a heavy silence, weighed down by Mycka’s resolve.

That night, Mycka, Rex, Princess, and Rea arrived at the portal to Santa Helena. Just as they were about to enter, Gelo caught up with them.

“What are you doing here?” Rex asked. “I’m coming with you. I’m the only one who knows exactly where the Count is,” Gelo insisted.

“Gelo, we aren’t just going back for my father. We’re going to reclaim Santa Helena from the Senior,” Rex explained.

Gelo’s brow furrowed. “What? Is this a suicide mission? You think you can take on the Senior’s army? Reclaim it? You’re insane. But fine… whatever happens, I’m coming with you.”

The portal shimmered open, and together, they stepped through. They emerged in a dense, dark forest.

“We are in the woods of Santa Helena,” Rea whispered, her eyes scanning the trees. “Be careful. Before we fled to the present, the Senior filled these woods with grotesque creatures. Monsters. That’s how we lost the first time. Even Carlotta had to sacrifice her life just so we could escape.”

“She’s right,” Princess added. “I don’t know where the Senior is sourcing this kind of power.”

“I sense something. Hide!” Gelo hissed.

Princess and Rea immediately gestured with their hands, vanishing into thin air. Mycka and Rex followed suit. Mycka performed the invisibility spell perfectly, but Rex struggled, his form flickering in and out of sight.

“Rex, focus!” Mycka whispered. “Yeah, just relax and… magic!” Gelo added, unhelpfully.

Rex took a deep breath, centered his energy, and finally managed to hold the spell. Gelo, meanwhile, scrambled up a tree to keep watch. A hooded figure emerged from the shadows, walking toward them. The figure stopped directly under Gelo’s tree.

The stranger pulled back her hood, revealing a familiar face.

“It’s me, Renalyn. I’m sorry I’m late. I had to make sure the Senior wouldn’t come looking for me,” she said. Mycka and the others deactivated their spells and stepped forward.

“Thank you for coming, Renalyn,” Rea said, rushing to hug her sister.

Renalyn looked at the group, her eyes widening when they landed on Rex. She immediately bowed. “Oh, Ate, please don’t do that. It’s embarrassing!” Rex said, flustered.

“I am merely showing respect to the Count’s child,” Renalyn replied. “Thank you for helping me escape before,” Rex said sincerely. “I owe you my life.”

“Think nothing of it. But listen,” Renalyn’s expression turned grim. “The Senior now holds the Medallion of Kelia . He is far more powerful than before. My advice? You must strip him of his power first. Destroy the source of his strength.”

“That’s a solid plan,” Gelo agreed.

Renalyn turned to Gelo, her eyes narrowing. “Why is the man who killed the Count’s child with you?” “He knows where the Count is hidden,” Mycka explained. “Now, is it true the Senior has my book?”

“It is, Eloida. Jean gave it to him. But Jean is gone—the Senior himself executed your traitorous right hand,” Renalyn revealed.

“Then he has access to all my magical knowledge,” Mycka said, her jaw tightening. “I need to get it back.”

“Don’t worry. I know where he hides your book, Eloida. I will help you. But we must hurry; my illusion spell won’t last long. My powers have returned, but the Senior doesn’t know it yet.”

To be continued…

CHAPTER SIXTEEN: The Queen of Shadows

While the Senior was deep in his work, a familiar voice drifted from the shadows behind him.

“How have you been, brother?”

The voice sent a chill down his spine. When he turned around, his eyes widened in disbelief.

“C-Calista? What are you doing here?” he stammered. Calista was the eldest among them, and she possessed a level of power that far surpassed his own.

“How have I been? Why the sudden visit to Santa Helena?” he asked, trying to regain his composure.

“I grew bored,” Calista replied coldly. “I’ve spent nearly ten centuries in Europe, constantly changing my name and my home. Human life has evolved so much, yet look at this place—still trapped under the curse of that witch, Eloida. And it’s all because of your incompetence.”

“Ate, I am trying to claim the power of the eighteenth generation of the Morales bloodline! But—” He choked as he felt something sharp and cold pierce his chest.

He looked down, horrified to see Calista’s hand buried deep in his torso.

“A-Ate… what are you doing?” he gasped, struggling for air.

Calista smiled, a chilling, predatory expression. “Even after all this time, you are still weak. You let your human emotions cloud your judgment.” With a violent jerk, she ripped her hand out, clutching his still-beating heart.

As the Senior collapsed lifelessly to the floor, Calista turned to his trembling subjects.

“From this day forward, you serve me. Give me your absolute loyalty, and you shall be spared by my power!” she declared. As if on cue, a thunderous roar echoed across the sky, followed by a jagged streak of lightning.

In the Woods of Santa Helena…

The group stopped in their tracks as a suffocating energy washed over them.

“Whose aura is that? Such a powerful, dark presence…” Princess whispered, her hand instinctively going to her chest.

“I feel it too, but I don’t recognize it. I’ve faced the Senior before, but his aura was never this oppressive,” Rex said, trembling.

“I know exactly who it is,” Mycka said, her face pale. “It’s Calista.”

“Calista?” Rex asked.

“The Senior’s older sister. She’s like you, Rex—she carries the blood of all three races. But she is far more skilled in wielding her power. I didn’t think she was still alive…” Mycka whispered, clutching her chest.

Before they could discuss it further, a pack of Senior’s—now Calista’s—scouts emerged from the thicket. In a blur of fur and muscle, they shifted into wolves, surrounding the group. Six black wolves snarled at them, eyes glowing with hunger.

“We’re in trouble!” Gelo shouted, baring his fangs. Princess and Rea shifted instantly into wolves with shimmering gold fur.

“No one must know you’ve arrived. I’ll be back for you!” Renalyn cried, shifting into a bird and taking flight to avoid detection.

“Ate Miks, I don’t want to die yet!” Rex whimpered, frantically making the Sign of the Cross.

“Stay behind us!” Mycka commanded. She swept her hand through the air, and hundreds of fallen leaves began to swirl around her, hovering like a protective storm.

“Ate—!” Rex screamed as a wolf lunged at him, but Gelo was faster, intercepting the beast and hurling it away.

“Are you okay?” Gelo asked, standing protectively over him.

Meanwhile, Princess and Rea were locked in a vicious struggle with two black wolves. Rea let out a pained yelp as a claw tore through her shoulder. Mycka immediately sent her swirling leaves toward the attacker; the leaves moved like razor-sharp knives, slicing through the enemy’s hide.

Princess managed to take down her opponent, shifting back into her human form, breathless. Rea followed suit, clutching her bleeding arm as the remaining wolves hesitated, wary of Mycka’s lethal magic.

Meanwhile, Renalyn was hot on the trail of a scout who had shifted into a wolf.

She spotted him trying to hide within the thick, tall grass. The moment the scout realized he had been seen, he wasted no time and bolted. Renalyn was just as quick to pursue.

Sensing her presence closing in, the scout pushed his wolf form to its limits to escape.

“A hound might be fast, but a crazy eagle is faster!” Renalyn mocked. In a flash, she transformed from a small bird into a majestic eagle, swooping down and intercepting the wolf before he could get away.

“You want to race?” she asked, landing gracefully in front of him.

As the wolf snarled, she reached out and touched his head. A psychic frequency surged through him, deafening and disorienting the beast until he collapsed, whimpering on the ground.

“I won’t let you succeed,” Renalyn whispered coldly.

The wolf made one last desperate lunged at her, but Renalyn remained calm, her gaze fixed on her enemy.

Back with Rex’s group in the forest…

They had successfully defeated their attackers and were now catching their breath while waiting for Renalyn’s return. Mycka knelt beside Rea, using her magic to seal the wounds on her arm.

“Thank you, Mycka…” Rea whispered, the color slowly returning to her face.

A moment later, Renalyn reappeared.

“The path is clear for now. I’ve made sure no one else is tracking us,” Renalyn reported.

With a nod of relief, the group continued their trek toward the mansion. But their peace was short-lived. Suddenly, two figures emerged from the shadows: Hanna and Jolino.

“How are you all doing?” Jolino greeted them, a wicked smirk on his face.

“Not great, now that I have to look at your face in the middle of my path,” Rex retorted, his voice dripping with venom.

Hanna and Jolino merely laughed. Hanna’s eyes then locked onto Mycka, burning with a deep-seated hatred.

“I haven’t forgotten what you did to me,” Hanna hissed. “You’re going to pay for that, mark my words! You still owe me your life.”

To be continued…

CHAPTER SIXTEEN: The Immortal’s Return

The story so far… On their way to the Mansion, the group was intercepted by Jolino and Hanna. “How are you all doing?” the two asked. Rex quickly retorted…

Continuing the journey… “Not well, considering your faces are blocking my path. You still owe me your lives,” Rex said coldly.

Hanna and Jolino scanned Rex’s companions and were shocked to see Renalyn among them.

“The head maid of the Mansion. I knew it… you’re a traitor to our master!” Hanna hissed, leaning in to mockingly sniff Renalyn’s hair.

“But what are you even doing here? Looking for Senior Ronnel?” Jolino asked with a smirk.

“Well, he was just murdered,” Hanna added, laughing.

Rex and Mycka’s brows shot up in surprise.

“Who killed him?” Princess demanded.

Hanna turned to Renalyn and smiled wickedly. “You’re right, Renalyn. That power you felt earlier belonged to Doña Calista. She’s the one who executed her own brother, Senior Ronnel.” She began to clap slowly.

“Enough! Move out of the way, Ate, Kuya! It’s not the Senior or Calista that we need!” Gelo interrupted.

Everyone froze at Gelo’s words.

“Ate? Kuya? They’re your siblings?” Rex asked, stunned.

Gelo merely nodded, looking down at the ground in shame.

“You fail again! You’re giving me every reason not to trust you, Gelo!” Rex shouted, shoving the young man away.

Hanna and Jolino shared a triumphant grin.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t—” Gelo started, but Rex cut him off.

“No! I’m done believing you! You’ve kept too many secrets from me. Now, let’s go to our destination. I don’t give a damn about Santa Helena anymore!” Rex yelled in a rage.

“Oh, wait a moment. Doña Calista has requested your presence at the Mansion,” Hanna said. She lunged forward and grabbed Rex. With a swift flick of her wrist, the two of them vanished into thin air.

Rea, Princess, Gelo, Renalyn, and Mycka were left behind, facing a defiant Jolino.

“You aren’t invited. So, you stay right here!” he sneered.

At the Mansion…

Hanna suddenly materialized before Doña Calista, holding Rex.

“I have brought her, Doña,” Hanna announced.

“Excellent,” Calista said, a dark smile playing on her lips.

“Don’t worry, Doña, she’s under my hypnosis. She won’t be able to move a muscle until I release her,” Hanna boasted.

“I wish to speak with her. Break the spell,” Calista commanded.

“As you wish, Doña…” Hanna replied. But as she reached out to lift the hypnosis, Rex suddenly spoke—and threw a heavy punch.

“Your hypnosis didn’t work on me!” Rex yelled, slamming her fist into Hanna’s face.

Hanna’s lip split open from the sheer force of the blow. Calista remained seated in her ornate chair, smiling.

A powerful weapon for the coming war, she thought to herself.

She didn’t notice the figure draped in black standing directly behind her, clutching a dagger. As Calista stood up, the veiled figure struck with terrifying speed. Calista’s head was severed in a single blow, rolling across the floor to stop in front of Hanna and Rex.

Hanna let out a blood-curdling scream at the sight of Calista’s head, its eyes still wide with shock. Rex turned toward the chair and saw the figure.

“Senior??” Rex gasped.

“Yes, the one and only. My sister didn’t realize that I am immortal. You can rip my heart out a million times, and I will still live,” the Senior said, looking down at Calista’s lifeless body.

Moments later, Gelo, Mycka, Rea, and Princess burst into the room. Rea was carrying the lifeless body of a black wolf.

“Jolino?” the Senior gasped, seeing his most loyal servant dead.

He let out a guttural roar, and the sky outside exploded with thunder and lightning.

“This is all because of you!” Senior Ronnel hissed at Rex. He lunged forward, his hand snapping around her throat.

The others tried to rush to her aid, but with a single wave of the Senior’s hand, they were hurled across the room.

As the Senior’s claws began to lengthen, poised to tear into her chest, Rex spoke up, her voice strained but defiant.

“The heart? Again? After it’s been killed so many times… when you thought ‘this is it,’ but it wasn’t? I even tried to live out a tragedy like Stairway to Heaven , but it didn’t work out. Fine! Take my heart. Go ahead!” Rex challenged.

“Your wish is my command, girl! Prepare yourself!”

Just as he was about to plunge his claws into Rex’s chest, a deafening gunshot rang out through the hall.

The Price of Immortality

Myda, Doc Santos (Jacinto), and Cristine burst into the hall.

“Guards, stop them! We have too many uninvited guests!” the Senior roared. At his command, the Guardia Sibil seized Mycka, Gelo, Princess, and Rea. Mycka didn’t resist; instead, her eyes were fixed on the woman and the older man who had just entered.

“Release my child!” the older man commanded, his voice booming with authority.

“Father?” Rex whispered, a smile breaking through her fear. The Senior, stunned by the man’s presence, instinctively loosened his grip.

“Count? You’re alive??” the Senior gasped, his eyes wide with shock.

“Why are you surprised? You know well enough that I am an immortal, just like you,” the Count said steadily. “I’m the one you really want, aren’t I? So let my daughter leave this place.”

“No, Count! It’s not just Santa Helena I want. I want all of your powers!” the Senior screamed. He raised his hands, and jagged bolts of lightning struck Rex’s companions one by one.

“Ate Mycka!” Rex cried out. She, too, was struck; she could feel the electricity coursing through her, violently draining her strength and her very essence.

Mycka desperately chanted a counter-spell, but it was useless against the raw power the Senior was wielding.

“Arrrrghhh!!” They all screamed in unison, the sound echoing painfully against the stone walls.

“Stop this, Ronnel!” the Count ordered.

“I don’t take orders from the weak!” the Senior spat.

One by one, they began to fall. Rea and Princess were the first to lose consciousness, followed by Gelo, Doc Santos, Myda, and Cristine.

“Immortal power! Haaaahhhaa!” Ronnel bellowed, relishing the surge of stolen energy flowing into his veins.

Amidst the chaos, Mycka crawled toward Rex.

“Rexy, follow my lead. We have to destroy that machine,” Mycka whispered through gritted teeth.

“How, Ate??” Rex asked, her voice trembling.

“Just repeat every word I say,” Mycka commanded.

And so they did. With their voices joined in a singular, desperate incantation, the mystical machine groaned and shuddered. With a final, explosive spark, the device ground to a halt.

To be continued…

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN: The Mark of the Mandarag

“Senior Ronnel”

Since I was a child, I had lived in the shadow of the Morales family. I began as a servant, eventually rising to become the Count’s personal attendant. I grew up without parents, believing that the Count’s father and mother were my true family.

But then, the veil of lies was lifted. One night, while the household slept, I passed the master’s chambers. A conversation from within froze my blood.

“What if he finds out the truth about his parents? I’m afraid, Ignacio,” Josepina’s voice trembled. “Josepina, we raised Ronnel to be a good man,” Ignacio replied firmly. “We should never have murdered Sioning. She was my best friend… a kind Werewolf and my childhood companion,” she sobbed. “It was necessary,” Ignacio grunted. “It was the Council’s decree.”

I couldn’t listen any longer. In the shadows, a woman appeared—the same one who had haunted my dreams. I followed her out of the mansion, where she finally revealed herself. She was Hanna’s mother, Alyssa.

“You are the son of Sioning,” Alyssa told me, her eyes burning. “The blood of a Mandarag —a fusion of Werewolf and Witch—flows through your veins. You are the heir to our legacy.”

“Mandarag?” I asked. “The killers you call ‘mother’ and ‘father’ murdered your mother because they envied our power. You must avenge our bloodline!” Alyssa reached out and touched my head. At that moment, a tidal wave of ancestral rage consumed me. It was that rage that led me to slaughter the Count’s parents.

“Your apologies mean nothing! You must pay for what you did!” the Count had told me years later. “They never treated you as an outsider. We were fair to you.” I tried to explain the betrayal, but his heart was a closed door. They threw me into a dungeon for years, not knowing that under Alyssa’s spectral guidance, I was mastering the dark arts of sorcery.

When the Count finally released me to live in exile, he made his final mistake. I built my fortune and gathered an army to reclaim what I believed was mine.

“Finally, the Mansion is mine! All of Santa Helena belongs to me!”

My thoughts snapped back to the present as a powerful kick sent me reeling into the grass. I had forgotten I was still in the midst of a battle against the Count and his daughter.

But I was cunning. I lunged at Rexxy, and before anyone could react, I seared a mystical mark onto her skin—a curse from my mother’s forbidden grimoire.

“No! Not that mark!” Mycka screamed, her face pale with terror. “The Mark of the Unay!” the Count gasped, seeing the brand on his daughter.

“The mark of what?” Rexxy asked, her voice trembling. Myan and Princess rushed to her side. “The Unay Mark… it means your lives are now bound together. You share the same breath, the same life force. What happens to one, happens to the other. You are tethered to him now.”

I signaled Hanna to attack, but Cristine was quick to act. She summoned massive, ancient tree roots to block Hanna’s path. “Plants meant for dogs like you,” Cristine mocked with a grin. Renalyn shifted into a giant bird, shielding the group with her massive wings. In a blur of feathers and magic, they vanished from the battlefield.

They may have escaped for now, but I held the winning card. Hanna approached me as I watched the empty clearing.

“Senior, the awakening of your mother, Sioning, is near,” Hanna whispered. “Once she rises, the Count’s daughter will finally meet her end.”

I said nothing. I simply turned and walked back into the Mansion—my Mansion.

Meanwhile, at Myan and Cristine’s house…

“Myda, thank you. Your healing touch is as potent as ever,” Rea said, letting out a sigh of relief. Myda offered a small smile before turning her attention to Rex.

“Rexxy, it’s a blessing you only sustained minor scratches. But wait—where is the Count? Is he with you?” Myda asked, looking around the room.

Renalyn stood up from her seat, her expression somber. “He is still in Santa Helena. He remains a prisoner of that land.”

Suddenly, Rex let out a piercing scream. The group rushed to her side and gasped at what they saw. A deep, jagged gash had materialized on Rex’s arm. It was a fresh wound, with blood still flowing as if she had just been struck by a blade.

“This is insane! Hold on!” Myda cried, immediately channeling her healing energy into Rex’s arm.

“This is a massive problem, Ate Mycka,” Myda said, her voice laced with worry. “How are we going to remove that mark the Senior placed on Rexxy?”

“I don’t know. If only I had my grimoire,” Mycka replied, racking her brain. “I remember in my past life as Eloida, I always carried a specific book. But I can’t recall if I burned it or if it’s still hidden somewhere in the Mansion.”

Renalyn spoke up, “It is still in the Mansion’s library, Eloida. I hid it the moment I saw your life had ended in the past. I studied the spells written within those pages—that is how I gained the powers I have now. I became like you… a sorceress.”

“Then I’m going back for it. I need that book,” Mycka said firmly.

“I can help you with that. I know every secret passageway and corner of that Mansion,” Renalyn added with a confident smile.

Just then, Myan’s second-in-command arrived. “Be careful, you two. I’ve already dropped off Doc Santos. He had an emergency meeting with his pack.”

“So, what’s the move? Are we just going to keep hiding? His minions will eventually track us down,” Gelo pointed out.

Rex suddenly stood up, a mischievous glint in her eyes despite the pain. “I have a plan,” she said with a grin.

“Vampy, vampy… drink some holy water.”

To be continued…

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN: The Crimson Rain

“The Holy Water?” Rex repeated.

“What exactly is your plan?” Gelo asked, handing her a small bottle of holy water.

“Myda, were you able to get some syringes from the hospital?” Rex asked.

“Yes, here they are,” Myda replied, handing them over.

“The Senior won’t be easily affected by Holy Water, Rex. If you’re planning to just stab him with that syringe, it’s going to be difficult. Besides, I haven’t fully regained my ability to cast complex spells yet,” Mycka warned her sister.

“Ate, leave it to me,” Rex said with a confident smile as she began drawing the holy water into the syringes.

“Rexy, your Kuya Ben and I won’t allow you to storm that Mansion alone,” Myan interjected firmly.

“Don’t worry, Ate. I’m going to need all the help I can get,” Rex replied, tucking the loaded syringes safely into her sling bag.

From the distance, they spotted Renalyn approaching. A massive bird soared toward them, descending gracefully before shifting back into her human form.

“I’ve spoken to my comrades—those whose loyalty still lies with your father. They are ready to strike,” Renalyn reported.

“Princess and Rea are already positioned around the Mansion,” Myda added.

“Then let’s finish what needs to be finished,” Rex declared. She took Mycka’s grimoire, flipped through the ancient pages, and uttered a powerful incantation. In a flash, they vanished.

In the blink of an eye, they stood before the Mansion. The air was filled with the sounds of battle as Doc Santos’s werewolf pack clashed with the Senior’s forces. Nearby, Rea and Princess were commanding the very trees to rise, creating a massive living barrier around the estate.

“Go inside now! We’ll hold the line out here,” Mycka shouted, opening her book.

“Wait, Mycka, can you actually cast spells of this magnitude yet?” Myan asked anxiously.

“I have to try. We need to cover Rexy so she can get inside,” Mycka replied.

“Understood. We’ve got your back,” Myan said. With a sharp flick of her wrist, she sent several approaching enemies flying backward.

Rexy nodded and sprinted toward the Mansion. But just before she crossed the threshold, she took one of the syringes and plunged it into her own leg.

Inside, Renalyn met her. “I’m right behind you, Rexy. Don’t worry,” she whispered.

They moved stealthily through the corridors toward the cell where the Count was being held.

“What are you doing here?” the Count asked as they approached.

“Papa, we’re here to get you out,” Rex said breathlessly.

Her father pulled her into a tight embrace. But behind them, Renalyn noticed something horrifying.

“R-Rex… th-that’s not him!” Renalyn tried to scream, but time itself seemed to grind to a halt.

In a blur of dark magic, the figure of Rexy’s father distorted and shifted, revealing Senior Ronnel. Before she could react, he sank his fangs deep into her neck.

“Aaahhhh!” Rexy gasped, her strength fading fast as the Senior began to drain her blood.

Outside the Mansion…

“What exactly is Rex’s plan?” Gelo asked, his body covered in wounds from the relentless assault. “Hold still for a second!” Myda shouted, immediately channeling her energy to close the young man’s gashes.

Nearby, Princess and Rea were locked in a fierce battle with Jolino’s black wolves. “The black wolves…” Princess muttered, stomping her foot onto the earth. Dry leaves began to swirl and levitate around her. Rea, meanwhile, unfastened her bracelet, which elongated into a glowing weapon. “Silver Lightning Whip!” Rea cried, lashing out at the beasts. “Come and get it, doggies!” Princess taunted.

A man stepped forward from the enemy ranks, a smug smile on his face. “Miss me?” “You?” Princess gasped in disbelief. “Do you know him, Cess?” Rea asked. “He’s a friend… or at least he used to be!” Princess snapped.

The man laughed. “Short memory? Let me remind you of everything, Princess.” “No need, Welnard!” Princess countered. She raised her hand, and massive roots erupted from the ground, entangling Welnard. Rea, on the other hand, continued to cut through the black wolves with her whip. Despite Welnard’s speed, the ancient roots eventually cinched tight around him, pinning him to the spot.

Inside the Mansion…

Time resumed its normal flow. Renalyn rushed to Rexy’s side, supporting the weakened girl. “Fight it, Rexy! Do it for your father,” Renalyn urged. The Senior stood over them, smiling triumphantly—but he paused when he noticed that Rexy was smiling back at him, despite her fading strength.

“Why do you look so happy?” the Senior hissed, wiping blood from his lips. “Don’t you know it’s a full moon tonight?” Rexy rasped. Renalyn looked at her, confused. “I know the moon’s phase, but what does that matter? I know what you are—you carry the three bloodlines. But have you forgotten? You haven’t mastered the vampire’s gifts or the werewolf’s strength yet. Only your witch’s blood can endure this era,” the Senior mocked.

Rexy forced herself to stand. “That’s exactly why I prepared for this moment.” She pulled the empty syringes from her bag. “Rexy? Weren’t those filled with…” Renalyn’s eyes widened as the Senior suddenly began to convulse.

“Wh-what did you do?!” the Senior stammered, falling to his knees. “Simple… I laced my own blood with Holy Water. And because of my witch’s blood, the Holy Water doesn’t harm me—but it’s lethal to you,” Rexy explained. She pulled out one last bottle of Holy Water and tossed it into the air. “Ate Rena, now!”

Renalyn shifted into a massive bird, caught the bottle, and soared high above the estate, shattering it and scattering the liquid like rain over the entire area.

Outside, the battle ground to a halt. The “rain” began to fall, and the Senior’s minions shrieked as they grew weak. “Holy Water? So this was Rexy’s plan all along?” Mycka realized. “Even in her past life, she was always the smartest one,” Doc Santos remarked. The wolves facing Princess and Rea retreated in terror. “Now you look like literal drowned rats!” Rea shouted.

Back in the Mansion…

“You… you monster! What have you done?!” the Senior screamed, gasping for air as his lungs burned. “Bye-bye!” Rexy said coldly, turning to leave. “What about him, Rexy?” Renalyn asked. “Let him rot, Ate,” Rexy replied, walking away.

She didn’t see the Senior grab a jagged piece of wood from the floor. He lunged at her back with a dying burst of strength, but Gelo saw it coming. “Noooo!” Gelo cried, throwing himself between them.

Rexy spun around and froze at the sight. Gelo had taken the blow meant for her. “Gelooo!!!” Rexy screamed, catching him as he fell. “Ate Rena! Help him, please!” Renalyn gestured frantically, trying to weave a healing spell, but nothing happened. The wound was too deep, the wood likely tainted.

“Please don’t leave me… we still have so much to do, you idiot! Please…” Rexy sobbed, cradling him in her arms.

To be continued…

CHAPTER NINETEEN: Race Against Time

The story continues… Gelo has shielded our heroine from certain death.

“Don’t you dare give up, you idiot!” Rexxy sobbed, her hands trembling as she gripped Gelo’s fading hand.

The Senior tried to muster one last attack, but Mycka and the others arrived just in time to intercept him.

“Ilusa siempre konda!” Mycka chanted. Her voice resonated through the hall, and the Senior’s body stiffened, turning as cold and immobile as stone. He was paralyzed, unable to even blink.

Mycka was joined by Cristine, Myda, and Myan.

“Eloida, do not kill him,” Myan cautioned, using Mycka’s ancient name. “Let the Council decide his ultimate punishment.”

“I’ll make sure he doesn’t go anywhere,” Cristine added. With a swift movement of her hands, massive, gnarled roots erupted from the floor, coiling tightly around the Senior’s stone-like form until he was completely entombed.

“Ate, help! Gelo’s pulse is getting weaker!” Rexy cried out, her voice filled with panic.

The group rushed to her side. Myda checked the vein in Gelo’s neck, while Mycka channeled her magical energy, attempting to stabilize his condition.

“We need to get him to a hospital—and not in this timeline,” Myda declared, realizing that modern medicine was his only hope.

“I can take him there,” Renalyn volunteered. Myda nodded, and together with Renalyn, they supported Gelo’s limp and battered body.

Renalyn unfurled her massive wings, and in a blur of feathers and shimmering light, she, Myda, and Gelo vanished, bound for the modern world.

The Threads of Time

While the others were celebrating, Princess and Rea found themselves in a precarious situation. Welnard had his arm locked around Princess’s neck.

“Back off, or I’ll take her head!” Welnard threatened. “Oh, wow. Really?” Princess replied, completely unfazed. “Shut up! I’m serious!” “Princess!” Rea cried out, watching helplessly. “Order the trees to stop, Rea. I’m not playing around,” Welnard hissed, tightening his grip.

Princess just laughed. “You’re so sweet.” “Is something funny?” “It’s just… you’re hugging me from behind while choking me. Isn’t this exactly how we positioned ourselves when we used to make love?” Princess teased. “Stop it!” Welnard snapped, flustered. “Yamete kudasai! Hahaha!” she mocked, before stomping hard on his foot. As he winced, she slipped from his grasp. “Now!”

A massive bolt of lightning struck Welnard instantly. “Impressive. You haven’t changed a bit,” Rea remarked. From behind a large tree, a woman in a kimono emerged. “A dog turned into a barbecue. Tasty,” she smiled. “I can always count on you, Jona,” Princess said. “Of course. My mission in the present is over anyway, thanks to Eloida’s necklace,” Jona replied.

The Bittersweet Farewell

Back with Rexy, Doc Santos had successfully brought the Count to safety. The Count pulled his daughter into a long-overdue embrace. “Thank you, my child. If your mother were alive, she would be so proud of your bravery.”

Before Myan and Cristine led Senior Ronnel away, he left them with a chilling warning. “You helped the wrong people. I am not the true enemy here,” the Senior sneered. “And you, Eloida… I know you’re missing something. Something powerful. Something important.”

“Enough!” Myan shouted, leading him away. “Papa, come with us to the present,” Rexy pleaded. “You can live there without the stress. I’ll introduce you to my second father!”

The Count looked into her eyes and smiled sadly. “Ija, I cannot cross over. This era is my home. My people need me to rebuild Santa Helena. But your Aunt Eloida—I mean, Mycka—will look after you. If you ever miss me, just whisper my name and your mother’s.”

With a heavy heart, Rexy said her goodbyes. Mycka opened the portal, but her mind was elsewhere. She realized her necklace was indeed missing, but she couldn’t remember where it went.

The Law of Time

At the hospital, Gelo remained unconscious. Suddenly, Renalyn noticed her hand was beginning to fade into transparency. “What’s happening?” she gasped.

In the prison of Luna Esta, Senior Ronnel laughed as he watched Myan and Ben’s hands begin to vanish as well. “The God of Time is punishing you for interfering with the past. You’re being erased,” he mocked.

Back at the mansion, a mysterious woman with horns and black wings appeared before Princess, Rea, and Jona. “I am Cathlea Adonis, the balancer of light and dark. Jona, give me the necklace!” With a wave of her hand, the artifact vanished from Jona’s grasp and appeared in Cathlea’s. Before Jona could curse her, Cathlea vanished into the folds of time.

A Fairytale Ending (Sort of)

“Is he awake?” Rexy asked Myda at the hospital. “He’s fine, but maybe you should kiss him for that ‘fairytale effect,’” Myda teased. Rexy blushed. “That’s embarrassing.” “Go on, Rex,” Mycka encouraged with a wink.

Rexy leaned in and whispered into Gelo’s ear. “I know you’re awake. Are you trying to steal another kiss?” He didn’t move. “Ate, why isn’t it working?” “Say the magic word,” Myda signaled.

Rexy leaned in again. “Yes. I’m finally saying yes to you.” Gelo immediately bolted up, pulled her into a kiss, and hugged her tight. “Thank you. I love you so much.”

From the doorway, Doc Santos, Myan, Cristine, and Renalyn watched with smiles. “Finally! I won the bet!” Doc Santos cheered. “Fine, fine. Drinks are on me,” Myan grumbled.

Rexy’s Final Thoughts: So, the man of my dreams and my goofy boss turned out to be the same person. I won’t say this is a ‘Happy Ending’ because life is full of surprises. But remember: everything happens for a reason. Use your struggles as inspiration to keep moving forward.

This is your ‘It Girl,’ Rex Reina “Rexy” Morales. Signing off.

THE END