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The Keeper of the Spirits, Lilith, Clockwork’s wife, left their humble abode early one morning. Those who saw her often remarked that Lilith looked like an otherworldly version of Princess Jasmine, with her long teal hair and eyes that glowed a shade of vibrant teal. Or, they’d gossip about how Lilith had been born with the most powerful Ghost Gene ever seen. Ghost genes were rare and emerged sporadically in humans, granting them supernatural abilities. People often classified those rare individuals as psychics or something similar, but they never knew the true source of their powers.
Lilith had a demanding job overseeing the records of every ghost in the Ghost Zone, as well as every human with a Ghost Gene. It was exhausting work, especially considering she was also a wife and mother. Desperately needing a break, Lilith decided to visit the Masters family's home, hoping that Mag would be home so they could unwind together.
When Lilith arrived at the castle’s secured room, she immediately assumed her human disguise. Her ghostly hair and eyes remained the same, but her clothes and skin tone shifted to a more human-like appearance. She made her way upstairs, silently hoping that Mag would be there. Luckily, Mag was in her indoor garden, tending to the flowers. Thanks to her ghost sense, Magdalene could feel Lilith’s presence even before turning around.
“Hello, Lilith. What brings you knocking on my door?” Mag asked cheerfully.
“I desperately need a break. I’ve been stretched far too thin lately. So, I’m taking a few personal days to myself,” Lilith replied in an exhausted tone as she collapsed onto a nearby bench.
Mag, ever the caring host, ensured her friend was okay before responding, “I know the feeling. I’ve needed to take personal days myself. Shall I have the servants prepare something for us to enjoy?”
“Yes, that would be delightful. But, if you don’t mind, I’d rather we talk here, surrounded by nature. It’s soothing,” Lilith said, feeling a little more energized.
Mag agreed, and she stepped over to the intercom. After a brief exchange, she requested coffee and snacks to be delivered to the garden. Twenty minutes later, a servant arrived with the beverages. Mag thanked them and handed Lilith her cup.
“So, what exactly has been draining your energy? Are you experiencing burnout? Is there anything I can do to help?” the gorgeous half-ghost inquired, her voice full of sympathy.
Lilith sipped her coffee and exhaled deeply. “It’s never easy for the Ancients or their spouses. While we oversee the Ghost Zone and Earth, it doesn’t mean we don’t need a break every now and then. Even Clockwork, as old as time itself, needs time off sometimes. I’ve been trying for weeks to convince him to take a short vacation, but he won’t listen to me,” she admitted, sounding defeated.
Mag’s blue-violet eyes showed only sympathy for her friend. “My husband, Vlad, can be like that too. He’s had so much more work recently—between the pandemic, inflation, and the stress of tax season. He’s always honest about his taxes, though, unlike most wealthy people who lie about it.”
“Well, it’s nice to know he’s got some integrity,” Lilith said, offering a small smile. “But I’m still in dire need of a proper vacation. If I don’t get one soon, I’m going to collapse! And no, that pun wasn’t intended,” she added, half-joking.
Mag chuckled. “Well, do you have a place in mind? Maybe I could help persuade Clockwork like I’ve done with Vlad.”
Lilith nodded, a wistful look in her eyes. “Actually, I’ve been wanting to go to the Caribbean—take one of those ten-day cruises, soak up some sun, enjoy fresh air, and get pampered. I’ve earned it!” she sighed longingly.
Mag couldn’t help but giggle. “I’m not laughing at the idea of you going on a cruise, Lilith. I’m laughing at the thought of Clockwork in swim trunks. It’s just too hilarious to not laugh about!”
Lilith’s eyebrow raised, but she quickly joined in the laughter. “Yes, considering how my husband ages, that would be highly amusing!”
They both laughed until their giggle fit died down. “So, anything else you need to get off your chest? Besides being long overdue for a vacation?” Mag asked, wiping tears from her eyes.
Lilith paused, her expression turning serious. “Well, I hope your son and my daughter aren’t fooling around. You know how teenagers can be—trying things without thinking about the consequences. Human TV and social media don’t exactly help the matter.”
Mag smiled, but it was a mother’s knowing smile. “Trust me, Lilith. I’ve drilled it into my children’s heads that they’re not to engage in those kinds of activities until they’re married or at least finished with college.”
Lilith raised an eyebrow, clearly impressed. “You’re really devoted to the Lord, aren’t you?”
Mag’s smile softened as she nodded. “My family’s faith has always been strong and true. I’ve done my best to raise my children in a godly manner, teaching them to look to Him in times of need. I’ve even gotten Vlad to be more devoted to the church.”
Lilith nodded, her eyes thoughtful. “Do you have anything against atheists?”
Mag considered the question carefully before answering. “I can’t force my beliefs on others. They must decide for themselves what’s best for them. If they choose not to believe in God, that’s their right. I’ve never been one to push my faith on anyone. We all have free will, and that’s something I respect.”
Lilith smiled faintly. “I’m glad to hear that. It’s sad how many people forget that others have the right to their own beliefs. My husband and I have seen that time and time again throughout history.”
Mag nodded. “Thank you for understanding. It’s never easy being married or having children, but you’re a parent for life—even after they turn eighteen, you’re still their parent.”
Lilith’s expression softened. “Well, it took Clockwork and me centuries to conceive a child. But you know, ghosts and humans have very different ways of reproducing.”
Mag chuckled nervously. “I’d rather not get into that right now. Trust me, none of my pregnancies were easy—especially with my family’s hybrid nature. I had to give birth in the Ghost Zone hospital. Speaking of hospitals, I read something on Facebook about one shutting down without warning. The whole town was left without any medical services, and it caused chaos, especially for pregnant women who are now without OB services.”
Lilith’s confusion was evident. “How do you shut down a hospital without giving any warning? Doesn’t that seem illegal?”
Mag sighed. “I don’t know. Apparently, they gave the town and the staff only five days’ notice, and they didn’t provide any referrals to other hospitals. Now, the closest one is too far for emergencies. It’s just a mess.”
“That’s truly sad,” Lilith said, frowning deeply. “If it’s a money issue, couldn’t you send them a check or something?”
Mag shrugged. “Well, considering it’s in another state, it might be complicated. Plus, I’m not sure what’s actually happening. I only saw the post on Facebook. If it were here in Wisconsin, though, Vlad and I would send a check before you could blink.”
Lilith nodded, her expression thoughtful. “I imagine you would.”
After a few more minutes of chatting, Lilith stood up. “Thank you for the coffee. It was just what I needed. But school’s almost out, and I need to get home. Clockwork’s at the Nexus, so I need to be there when Prima comes home.”
Mag smiled. “The Specter Limo will pick up my children from their schools, but if you need backup to convince your husband to take a vacation, you know I’ll do my best. I’m sure Clockwork could use a break too. Pun intended.”
The two women laughed together. “Well, I’ll see you later, Mag. Please stop by this weekend with your family. Maybe we can convince Clockwork to go on a cruise then,” Lilith said, feeling hopeful.
“If we manage it, Vlad and I will have everything pre-booked for you. Don’t worry. See you later, Lilith,” Mag replied with a wink.
“See you later, Mag,” Lilith said with a smile, and the two shared a warm hug before Lilith walked back to the portal, feeling lighter after a much-needed break.