『9』

Matt's decision to pursue a career in modeling was one of the best he had ever made. With the guidance and support of Camilla, he landed opportunities to work with several renowned brands, including giants like Nike Adidas, and a few lesser-known but equally prestigious names in the industry. As he graced the covers of magazines and posed for prominent campaigns, he began to make a name for himself in the fashion world.

With time and dedication, Matt had perfected his walk and learned to keep his aura under control. As a result, he became even more popular in the modeling world. All eyes were drawn to him whenever he graced the catwalk with his presence. His magnetic charm and newfound confidence turned him into a fashion icon.

Matt sat in his dressing room, reflecting on the incredible journey of the past few months. He couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sense of happiness and accomplishment. He had achieved his dream, where everyone paid attention to him, and he had become the most sought-after model in the industry.

Just then, Camilla walked into the room with a beaming smile and placed a magazine on the table. Matt looked at it, and his eyes widened as he saw his face on the cover.

"You've got to be kidding me," Matt exclaimed, his excitement and disbelief evident. "I'm the face for Armani?"

Camilla grinned and let out an exuberant cheer. "I knew you were special from the moment I saw you in New York. I knew you were destined for greatness, and now, look at you—the face of Armani!"

"Cammy, I can't thank you enough for all you've done for me," Matt said, his voice filled with sincerity.

Camilla smiled warmly, "Matt, you had the talent and the potential from the beginning. I'm just here to guide and support you. But remember, this is only the beginning. There are even greater heights for you to reach."

. "I've also signed you up to volunteer at a nearby hospital. It's excellent for publicity and creates the image that you're a saint" Camille said leaving the room.

Matt dialed Viki from rehab in a moment of excitement and elation. "You'll never believe it, Viki," he exclaimed. "I'm going to be the face for Armani this season. The magazine production starts in a few months, but I wanted to tell you before you see it alone."

Viki's voice filled with pride and happiness as she responded, "Matt, that's incredible news! I'm so happy for you.

How are you doing?" Matt asked, concern evident in his voice.

Viki responded, her tone a mix of determination and vulnerability, "Withdrawal sucks ass, but I'm clean now. I can feel myself teetering on the edge of a relapse, so I've decided to stay here longer until I can handle it on my own."

Matt admired her strength and resolve, understanding the importance of her continued recovery. "That's a smart decision, Viki. Your health and well-being come first, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. You're strong, and you've got this."

—-------------

Once again, Matt found himself in the dream world, where Asmodeus and Augustus awaited him, ready to continue his training and impart their knowledge and wisdom.

Matt nodded, intrigued by the new lesson he was about to learn. "So, you're saying we can reverse the process, giving Chi back to people instead of taking it?" he inquired.

Asmodeus explained further, "Exactly. When you reverse the Chi, you can heal a person and have slight control over them. It's like regurgitating the food, returning their energy to them."

Augustus chimed in, offering additional insight. "When you feed, you draw from a person's Chi. This time, when reversing the Chi, you give it back to them, creating a connection and a subtle influence."

Eager to begin this new training, Matt asked, "How do we initiate reversing the Chi? Is it difficult?"

Asmodeus provided guidance, "It's a skill that requires precision and intention. You'll need to focus on the person's energy, draw it back within yourself, and then release it back to them."

Augustus chimed in with a further explanation. "The level of control you have will determine the extent of influence you can exert. It's like a connection, a bond created through the energy exchange."

"The more Chi you put into it, the more control you have, and vice versa," Asmodeus reiterated.

Asmodeus and Augustus proceeded to provide Matt with the theoretical knowledge and guidance necessary to master this skill. They explained the intricacies and nuances of reversing Chi, sharing their wisdom and expertise.

However, as their training session ended, Asmodeus emphasized, "We'll teach you the theory, but when you wake up, it's up to you to put it into practice."

While Matt was in the hospital, he couldn't help but overhear a hushed conversation among doctors and nurses discussing a recent case. Their tone was somber, and the news they shared was disheartening. They mentioned a woman who had been nearly assaulted and subjected to multiple stabbings, and the prognosis didn't look promising. They conveyed the grim assessment that she might not make it through the night. Matt then found a target for his experimentation.

Matt observed the woman as he stood in the hospital room. He had already read her chart and knew she was in dire need of help.

Taking a deep breath, Matt extended his hand toward her and began reversing the Chi. It was a challenging experience, as it felt like he was losing a part of himself. But he knew that he had to try, not only to heal the woman but also to test his newfound ability.

Carefully, Matt opened the woman's mouth and skillfully directed the reversed Chi back into her, monitoring her condition closely for any signs of change or improvement. Gradually, he observed that her complexion began to regain a healthier flush, and her breathing became less ragged than before. The visible cuts on her face showed signs of healing, not fully recovered but well on their way, with the promise of natural healing within the next few hours.

Matt noticed something peculiar as he began reversing Chi to heal the girl. The energy he drew from her had an unusual taste that he couldn't quite place. It tasted different from the usual life force he had encountered. He couldn't be sure but thought it was linked to magic.

As the woman stirred and inquired about his identity, Matt introduced himself as "Matt Donovan." She responded, introducing herself as Stephanie Parker.

Hearing her last name piqued Matt's curiosity, and he asked, "Are you related to the Gemini Coven?"

A hint of surprise colored Stephanie's voice as she replied, "What...how did you know?" 

-------------------------- 

1200 words 

COMMENT, FOLLOW, VOTE 

What celestial event does Bonnie plan to draw on in order to send herself and Damon home?