Chapter 31

Wesladus Veil, Pendragon castle

The morning was bright and brisk but not cold, the yard dusty, and the sounds of swords clanged and scraped. Training was going well. Ian looked at the men and was happy at the addition of the werewolves.

Larc stood beside him and they laughed. They were fast becoming friends. They weren’t so different. Life dealt Larc the same deal as Ian. They had similar stories, about their men, their lives, and things in general.

Larc hadn’t mated yet and it seemed their pack had a problem with having children. He told Ian he thought it was because they mated within their own pack for so long. He was afraid they were going to have to look outward. Ian told him what it was like being half vampire and half fae.

Larc laughed when he found out how many children were born in his family. Larc told him his family had the litter, making him laugh. The weres were good for morale and great fighters. It seemed they were the piece missing from his army all along. They were teaching the others a thing or two.

Conall came tearing across the training yard, interrupting their laughter. His eyes were wide and his nostrils flared. He recognized the warning signs that Conall had either just spoken to a ghost or saw something not of this world.

“What is it Conall, what did you see?”

Larc watched him curiously.

Conall pulled his hand through his hair, another habit while dealing with aberrations. “Merlin was just here. I was in the library looking for monasteries and he came tae me. He said tae ready the men, he would lead us tae him. He was weak and just a projection, it took a lot out of him tae come here.

“He said he’d be back tomorrow tae show us the way. We are tae meet at outer earth, at the portal opening, early in the morning, they are there in outer earth. He said he couldn’t tell us where he’s at, he can only lead us, because it’s so well hidden and cloaked, we couldn’t get there any other way. He said there’s only one way in and that’s up through a valley. It’s on a cliff. He looks bad, Ian, we have to get tae him.”

“Och, we will, Conall, my gods, Merlin. Larc ready your men for battle. Lysanthir!”

“Ian? What is it?”

“Merlin came tae Conall. He’ll meet us at the outer earth portal. I think he’s somewhere there. We’ll take the stationary portal from here tae outer earth, damn good thing it’s nae inner earth, we’d have to go tae Wattingham fort for that portal. We have tae be ready tomorrow.

“Baws, are we ever going tae get the time we need for training? I need you tae ready our men. Gather them all, I will talk tae them. I’ll meet you in the yard in two hours. I need tae see Elspeth and my brothers at the castle. Tell them tae pack light, but warm. We’re going up a mountain. We leave at day break. Tell Lauren, Finn, and Taryn what I told you, tell Connor’s men as weel, I need him at the castle.”

“Connor! I need ye inside now!” Connor came jogging up. “Follow me.” He walked off leaving Lysanthir and Larc shouting at their men.

“Connor, I doona ken how many we face, I doona ken the layout of the land where we’re goin’. I need you tae think of all possible scenarios. We’re goin’ up a mountain, the only way is through a valley. A good place for them tae ambush us. We need a way tae get through there. Come up with somethin’ tae do that. That’s all I ken. I need tae see Elspeth. We’ll need her here tae care for the wounded. Bullocks!”

He left to search for Elspeth and found her in the solarium sewing by the window, humming. He realized she enjoyed it. It warmed his heart. God’s, she was beautiful. “Hi sweetling,” he said smiling.

“She looked up and smiled. “Hi, yourself. Och, what now, Ian?”

“Merlin came tae Conner in a projection. It took a lot of his energy. Connor said he isn’t well and looks bad but can lead us tae him. We leave at day break tae find Athdar’s army and Merlin. I need you here, Els, for the wounded.”

Elspeth stood, laying down her sewing, and with a concerned look, walked to Ian and put her arms around him. “Are the men ready?” She asked, looking into his eyes.

“They are all good soldiers tae begin with. They’ve had a few days tae integrate and get tae ken each other. We doona have a choice we have tae go. With the werewolves, we have a great chance. They’re a great bunch of men. I worry aboot you.”

“I’m fine Ian, I am here for you and the men, and I’m here for Merlin. Doona fash yourself, I’ll be fine. I just hope the men will be. Do you ken where you’re going?”

“Only, up some mountain. Doona ken where, on outer earth though.” Ian knew her thoughts and worry weighed on her. “I’ll be fine. I’m thinkin’ when this is over I will retire for good. I have you and the bairn tae think aboot. I want tae raise my family and spend my days lovin’ you. I have tae go talk tae Dougal and Cameron, then talk tae the men. I’ll pack later. Then later…later…,”he said and wiggled his eyebrows.

Elspeth laughed and slapped his arm. “You better think of later…later,” she smiled, pressed her bosom to his chest and kissed him.

“You do that, and there’ll be nae later…later only now…now!” he kissed her back hard, and grabbed her behind and pulled her in, groaning.

“Later, later,” she whispered, barely catching her breath.

After he talked with Dougal, Cameron, and Conall, who had returned to Merlin’s library, he walked out to the yard.

He stood atop the podium and looked at all the men. His brothers, Lysanthir, and Larc below, standing beside him.

“Thanks for being here and for being part of this. Our last battle was hard, and I ken we lost a lot of good men, but now we ken better what we are dealin’ with. I want to thank Larc and his men for joining with us in this common cause. We’ve all taken a soldier’s oath tae protect both worlds and now that time has come.”

He looked out over the men assembled and felt proud of the hard work they had put forward. “Each one of you is a good soldier, and a good mon. Now I’ve explained what these kearals are capable of, and we all ken it’s not good, but you’ve all agreed to continue on. To fight.

“I want you tae look at your brothers next tae you. Ken each one of you has each other’s back. Today we are not just Ocrul, we are not just Crixior, we are not just Crimson Keepers, we are not just Ogourax. We are not segregated. Today we are soldiers, we are men, we are brothers.

“We are all fighting for the same thing. We are fighting for the weak, who canna. We are fightin’ tae live in a peaceful world, where we can love, raise a family, and be safe. So you look at your brothers, because we are goin’ to war as one. A rather different one…” and they all laughed, “but a war nevertheless. We will watch each other’s backs and protect each other. I need tae reiterate, make sure you keep their hands from around your heads. That’s a power they have that we have to avoid.

“I donna ken exactly where our destination is, Merlin will be leading us there. I ken we will be going up a mountain and through a valley tae get there. In that valley, they are likely tae ambush us. We ken now what we are up against. It’s not goin’ tae be easy, but I ken for a fact we can do it. Are you all with me, give me an Aye!”

“Aye!” again “Aye!”

“Good luck men. Eat good tonight, pack warm but light. We’ll be treckin’ up a mountain. We’ll be taking our horses through the portal here in the morning. We leave at day break. Dismissed.”

He climbed down and pulled his hand over his face. He tried not to think of the men they recently lost or the battle they had. He knew they were now sitting good with Larc and his men, he just didn’t want to lose any more soldiers.

It was his responsibility to see to their safety. He hated going into unknown territory, but it had to be done. They had to face Athdar and his army. He wasn’t so ignorant to think they could eradicate Athdar’s army, but they could win this battle, hopefully along with killing Athdar and Drakkor.

He knew Merlin and he knew Merlin would die before he would lead them all to their death. He had to trust his judgement. He knew Merlin had studied his surroundings, carefully planning his moves. He must have spent all the time he could listening to Athdar, projecting when he could, and getting a feeling for Athdar’s movements and daily habits.

At least that is what he himself would do. He and Merlin were a lot alike. Merlin wouldn’t be coming to them unless he was ready. So, like it or not, they too, had to be ready. At least Elspeth would be here, safe. He wanted to see what strategies Connor would come up with. Lysanthir had good strategies as well. Together they’d figure things out.

He walked around the other side of the castle and down the hill. He called Ator and within minutes he was there. “Ator we found Merlin, sort of. In the morning at day break we leave for outer earth. Merlin will meet us at the portal there and lead us to Athdar and Drakkor. I need you and your dragons with us. Can you ready them?”

“We’ll be ready. We can fly on ahead and up and meet you there if you like.”

“No, it’s cloaked, you better follow us. We are in uncharted territory. I want tae make sure you get through with the rest of us. I doona ken what the process of breaking through a cloaking spell entails, but I am sure it isn’t pleasant. We need tae follow Merlin, because we aren’t sure of our path. Meet us at the portal at daybreak.”

“We’ll be there.” And Ator flew off.

He walked through the doors of Pendragon and into the meeting hall where his brothers were discussing ideas. Larc and Lysanthir just joining them.

“What have you got, Connor?”

“I think our grouping should be larger this time and not so spread out. By the time we all rejoined the group the first wave was tired out. I know it was because of the layout and we really couldn’t do much else, but we need a tighter grouping. Ian have you contacted Ator yet?”

“Yes, he is meeting us at daybreak at the portal with his dragons. Conall go over everythin’ you saw and heard with Merlin again, even if you think it not important. I doona want tae miss anythin’.”

He looked up and saw Elspeth enter the room. “Hi dearling, care tae join us? We are goin’ over Merlin’s visit with Conall and trying tae plan for what little we ken. Maybe your fresh outlook could help us oot.”

“Weel, I doona ken how much help I could be, but I weel join you. I just hope we can get Merlin back safely. I hope I can heal him, although I’m not sure of all that is wrong with him, or if I’m capable.” Elspeth took a seat at the table.

Conall brushed his hand over his face. “Like I said, I was in Merlin’s library looking for references tae monasteries and their locations. I looked up and he was there, but not. I could see through him and had trouble at times understandin’ him. I doona ken if it’s because he’s ill or weak or if it was because he was a projection of himself, but he does not look good at all.

“He’s thin and older looking. His face was gray and much more wrinkled. He had trouble with keeping his eyes open and his speech was off. I just hope he’s strong enough to go through with it. He started tae fade a couple of times, but when I called his name he became brighter.

“I couldn’t tell where he was because he floated here, away from his surroundings, so it was unlike Lauren and his dreams. He said he’d lead us tae his location. Our danger will be in the valley when we cross.

“In the afternoon Athdar trains, he hopes tae have us there then, it will be easier tae get in the monastery. He knows they’re cloaked, obviously. He says, mornin’s Athdar and Drakkor are gone and at night Athdar comes and drains a little of his ether.

“He’s not sure aboot scouts, but he believes they have men on watch, and that they scout daily. There is a large building on a hill close by, from there, Merlin said, he could hear men’s voices. He sees it when he travels oot. He has tae be careful Athdar doesn’t see him. He’s the only one who could tell what Merlin was doing.

“He thought it may be a building for animals because he could hear and see horses outside. He thinks the soldiers stay there and that’s where they train. That is aboot all he said. That and he will be there in the mornin’ at the portal while Athdar and Drakkor are gone. He said he couldn’t leave while they were there for fear Athdar would know what he was up tae. That is all I ken.”

He looked around the table. “Anyone have anythin’ tae say?”

“I canna think of what tae do,” said Connor. “I doona have a map, I doona ken the layout of the land, I have nothin’ tae go by. I doona ken where we are goin’, nor even how many men we are up against. The best I can say is we should stick together as much as we can.”

The room was quiet with everyone deep in thought. Most worried about Merlin.

“Weel, I guess there isn’t anthin’ we can do other than follow Merlin,” he said. “We should eat, pack, and get tae bed early. Finn, I know you want tae go, but I’m goin’ tae ask ye tae stay here and watch over Elspeth. Even though Cameron and Dougal will be here, they will be busy with the books and spells. I need someone who can keep an eye on her. Do you mind?”

“I’m fine, Ian, you men need tae go,” said Elspeth. “I doona need watchin’. Seriously, I’m safe here in Wesladus. I doona want anyone tae watch me. The staff is here, that’s all I need.”

“She’s right,” said Finn. “The only trouble will be wherever Athdar is. I think she’ll be fine.”

“Elspeth, I’d feel better if one of my brothers stayed.”

“Dougal and I will be here,” said Cameron. “I want tae read more of Merlin’s book, but if something should come up, I’m sure I can handle it. I want tae stay anyway, I’m in the middle of reading the grimoire. I have it half memorized, and soon I should have the whole thing in my head. You wouldn’t mind keeping me company, would you Els?”

“I suppose,” he said not giving Elspeth a chance to answer. “You and Dougal are just busy with readin’ and I thought we should have someone nae as tied up.”

“I said I’d watch over her, Ian,” said Cameron. “I can do both.”

“Weel, I guess that would be fine. Now I feel better. It’s time we eat. Morag!”

Morag came from the kitchens with tankards and mead. “I’ll be right back with water, for you Elspeth. Dinner is ready and will be right out.” The tiny maid rushed out.

A few seconds later, two women carried in civet of hare, loin of veal, stuffed chicken, and a quarter of stag. The usual frumenty. Breads with different jellies were scattered about, and gilt sugar plums and pomegranate seeds adorned the middle and each end of the table. There were hard boiled eggs covered with saffron and flavored with cloves, plums stewed in rose-water, various wines, and large pies.

He looked around the table at those gathered there. “A bountiful feast to say the least. Eat up, I doona ken when our next hot meal will be.”

After everyone ate, they all talked for an hour, when Ian announced that he was going to pack, Elspeth offered her help, and they got up to leave. After “good nights” were exchanged, everyone left the table to get ready for the morning.

“You need tae take this warm cloak, Ian,” Elspeth said as she packed things for him.”

“Nae my tartan will keep me warm. I doona need anything warmer but thank you.” He looked at her and smiled. “I think I have all I need. Now all I need is you.”

Elspeth stopped and smiled. “Then I think, it’s later later.” She moved everything from the bed. “Come here,” she said, and held her arms out.

“You doona have tae tell me twice,” he said, as he moved and sat down beside her. He took her hands and looked at her. “I want you tae know somethin,’ Els. This battle willna be like the last. I was not myself last time. That was the first time I ever felt the way I did. I want you tae ken, it willna happen again.”

“I ken, Ian. I understand you more than you ken. You forget, I was in your head. I ken what happened. I’m not worried aboot you. Everything will be fine. Now kiss me you big bloke. I need you.”

And so, he did. They made love slowly and he ended by tasting her sweet blood on his lips. He drank deep, not only for the purposes of the feeling it invoked, but because he wanted to take a little of her and the bairn with him. He pulled her against him, his hand curled protectively on her stomach and fell asleep with a smile on his face.

Morning came way too early for him, he lay there thinking about the lost men. He couldn’t get it out of his head. Finally, he shook himself and gave himself a stern lecture. His remaining men needed his consideration. He had no room for mistakes.

He kissed Elspeth on the forehead and silently removed himself from the bed.

“You canna leave me, Ian McGregor, without a kiss and farewell.” Elspeth turned toward him with a yawn. “Are you sure it’s even mornin’ yet?”

“I’m sure. I was going tae leave you sleep and see you after we were ready tae go. I’ll be back,” he said, and kissed her anyway.

“Mmmmmm. I wish you were in this bed with me.”

“Me as weel, sweetling. After this is over you are all mine.”

“I’m all yours anyway.” She smiled.

He put his hand on her belly. “You just take care of yourself and our bairn. I doona want anything tae happen tae her.”

“You mean him,” she said, and grinned.

“She’s a fire-red haired girl, with emerald eyes, and as bonnie as her Mither.”

“He’s a dark-haired boy, with silver eyes, and so handsome all the girls swoon.”

They both chuckled. He kissed her again and left.

In the yard men were talking. Spirits were upbeat and he joined in. For as chaotic as it sounded, things were moving along nicely. It was a gray sky and soon it would be turning red. He hurried the men on.

Horses were packed, men mounted and ready to go as the first red streaks reached the horizon. Elspeth met him in the yard and they held each other for a second before reluctantly parting.

He gave the call and they went to the stationary portal that led to outer earth. Ator and his dragons flew up. Ian looked around at his misbegotten army and smiled, now they were complete.

He was happy with Larc and his men, they boosted the rest of the men, the dragons were a site to behold, yes, he felt good about this. They were able to enter two at a time on horseback. The dragons followed them through. Their transition went smoothly. Soon they were all gathered on the other side of the portal.

“Do you see Merlin yet, Conall?” asked Ian?

“Nae, I doona see him, not yet.”

“Weel, we wait.”

****

Mount Zomm, in the cave

Athdar looked at Drakkor. “Did you get the bone from Elspeth’s mother and father?”

“It was easy, I remembered where I buried them. How does this work, Athdar? What is the bone used for?”

“Well Elspeth is a healer. My plan is to use Merlin to bring her to us. I will use the bone dust to send Merlin to her. She will by her very nature want to heal. Because of my ether connection to Merlin, I will know the minute she touches him, and when she does I’ll immediately pull them back here.

“She will become our prisoner.” He laughed. “It will be such fun killing her in front of Merlin and Ian. I can’t wait to see their faces. When it sinks in and I’ve had my fun, I will then kill Ian, my brother’s favorite McGregor. Then I will kill my brother, the same way he killed me, only slower. With this.”

He took the knife off the stone alter that lay in the huge cavern. “It’s the magical knife that killed me. Using his blood, and its power, each slice will bring fire to his veins, but instead of killing him quickly as he did me, I’m going to kill him slowly.” He relished the thought of making his brother suffer. How ironic, he thought. His laughter echoed off the walls.

“What if someone else touches Merlin when you go to bring them back here? Will they also transport here?”

“Yes, but the more the merrier. If I can get more McGregors all the better and the less I have to get later.”

“How are you going to get Ian here?”

“If he isn’t with her, once he finds her gone, he’ll come looking for her. After I have her, I’ll drop the cloak so he can find me. Only this time I’ll be ready for him. I’ll have my army set up to ambush them in the valley, with the stipulation Ian is to be brought to me alive.”

He mixed roots and herbs in a large bowl as he spoke. He and Drakkor collected different ones every morning. Sometimes taking a portal to distant lands in search of the rarer ones. Now his collection was complete. He had everything he needed.

“Once I’ve finished with grinding the roots, I’ll grind the bone and add it to this. It will all be ready, when I say my incantation, I only need to add my blood. Of course, Merlin will be here. I have a small spell that will cut off his voice, so he can’t warn Elspeth, and voila! We’ll have her, and anyone else who wants to tag along for the ride. It’s a perfect plan.”

Drakkor laughed. “I can’t wait to see the end of the McGregors. They have always had their nose in everything I do. Once they’re gone there will be no one stopping us, Athdar, no one. We can complete our goals without interference. You will be the strongest wizard alive and I’ll be demon king. Things we both deserve, and we’ll be unstoppable.” Drakkor grinned. “Speaking of which did you find Juppar Heiwynn? Are we going get the men back?”

“I have an idea where he is. I’m not worried about them yet. I have plans in mind for Juppar Heiwynn. I will take care of them when we finish with Elspeth, Merlin, and McGregor. Here help me with the rest of this. You grind up the mother’s bone. We don’t need much, just enough in the bottom of your hand should do it.”

They each stood at the alter with mortar and pestle. They both had about an inch of bone that they crumbled and were now grinding. Both laughing and talking as they worked, about the things they wanted to have and do.

****

The portal at outer earth

The men waited only seconds before Merlin showed. Conall yelled, “there,” and pointed. Conall was the only one who could see him. Ian followed him as he walked his horse toward where his brother saw the wizard.

Conall was quiet a moment and then relayed Merlin’s words. “He said he can get us tae the edge of the mountain this morning, but he has tae return tae the monastery afore Athdar. He will tell us the path tae take, then return when Athdar goes tae training.

“He said about half of Athdar’s men haven’t returned tae train. He doesn’t ken what’s happened to them, but he hopes they’re gone. That means less you have to worry about.”

“How many men does he figure that Athdar has?”

“Aboot a hundred tae a hundred and fifty men.” Conall suddenly looked worried. “Merlin! Merlin! Hey you with me? He looks bad Ian. We need tae go.”

Conall took off fast. “He’s headed this way. Keep up!” The men responded to his shout and took off in a gallop.

After quite a distance of running the horses, they finally slowed then stopped. They were at a river. Ian held up his hand for silence and looked around. He could hear him talking to Merlin. Finally, after arm waving, and pointing to various spots, Conall stopped. He rode to meet him.

“Merlin said tae rest the horses here, water and feed them, and for us tae eat as weel. After our rest, it will be a non-stop trek up. He had tae leave, but he’ll find us on our path this afternoon, and lead us through the valley. He said tae take that path there and follow it. It looks like it stops up ahead, but that’s because of the cloaking. The farther we go, the more path we’ll see.

“He said once we get close to the cloaking edge we will start to feel fearful and be compelled to flee. The horses might spook, but we must keep going straight. Once the barrier is breeched we will be fine.”

He turned toward the rest of the group. “I will tell them what you told me.” Some of the men led their horses to the water to cool them down and allow them to drink. Others were stooped over washing the dust from their faces and hands.

He looked toward the direction they were headed. The path appeared to end, but then again looks could be deceiving. Athdar could make it look different, he supposed, but in the end, they’d still be going up that mountain. Most of it was covered in fog, the work of Athdar no doubt. It looked and felt menacing. He wondered if the horses would have to be left behind at some point.

After they ate the dried meat, bread, and cheese they were ready to follow Conall along a path they couldn’t really see. But they knew Merlin and no one dare question what he had to say. So as a group they crossed the river then fell in line as they began on their path upward.

It wasn’t straight up as he’d thought, in fact it wound around. When they hit the shroud barrier, it was as Merlin said, the closer they got, the more unease the men and the horses felt. There was some chaos as the men tried to control the horses, until finally they all broke through.

The dragons went through easier, just behind the men. The path became clearer and the fog cleared somewhat. So far, the journey wasn’t as tough as he’d expected.

They continued for a few hours when Merlin showed back up. Conall called out to Ian that he was with them. As if on cue they came to a place where the road split off, and Merlin showed them the correct path.

When he looked back from where’d they come, the fog shrouded where they’d been. It must work both ways, he thought. He turned and concentrated on Conall. “What’s Merlin got tae say?” he asked him.

“We aren’t far from the valley. We best get the men ready for an ambush.

****

Mount Zomm, training yard

Athdar and Drakkor stood in the yard watching the men, when a scout came galloping up. Pulling his horse to a rearing halt just beside Athdar, he shouted, “men coming to the valley! About a hundred!”

Athdar looked up at him surprised. “Men? Damn, I wasn’t ready for this. How the hell did they get through the cloak? Men to the valley! If Ian McGregor is there, bring him to me alive. Do you hear me? Kill the rest! Drakkor come, we are implementing our plan now. We need to get Merlin and get to the cave.”

When they got to Merlin’s room, he tried to wake him and found he couldn’t. Then it dawned on him. “He’s projecting! That’s how the men got through the cloak! I didn’t think he’d have the energy for it. You sneaky bastard!” He slapped him hard.

Instantly Merlin was back and awake. He saw fear on the old man’s face as he opened his eyes and realized his plan had been discovered. He threw him over his shoulder and called for Drakkor to follow.

When they got to the cave he dropped Merlin on the floor. His hands and legs still tied. He knew Merlin had no energy to fight anyway. It probably took most of what he had left to project. It didn’t matter to Athdar anyway, he was implementing his plan now.

“Athdar, you can’t use the spells in the Grimoire. You face certain death if you do, and me as well. You know the Gods warned us against using those spells. Do not use the dark book, you know the consequences.”

He laughed. “I broke that rule the minute Drakkor brought me back to life. And the minute I took your ether and all the others. No Merlin, I won’t be stopped this time, but you’re right you will die, but not because of using spells from the Grimoire, no because of me. Now shut up!”

He waved his arm and said a few words, and his brother could no longer speak. He stood above the bowl he’d prepared and began chanting. He could tell Merlin recognized the spell by his look of fear. “Do not!” his thoughts loud and clear to Athdar.

He laughed, then sliced his hand and let the blood drip into the bowl. Then he poured in some black wax which caused the contents to flame up. After the flame receded, he took the bowl over to Merlin. He dipped his fingers in the paste, and wiped it across Merlin’s forehead, still chanting. When he finished, he said, “be gone!” and Merlin vanished.

****

Pendragon castle in Wesladus

Elspeth sat in Merlin’s library talking to Ian’s brother. She was bored and wished to have someone to talk to so she sought out Cameron. He was telling her stories about battles, and about Ian, she was really enjoying herself. She loved hearing about the crazy things Ian did before she met him.

He was a ladies’ man, but she’d figured that out anyway, and even though Cameron didn’t go in to detail about the women, she could read between the lines. Those days were over for him. She’d make sure of it she thought with a laugh.

It was in the middle of one of those stories Merlin appeared. Suddenly, he was there laying on the floor at her feet. She screamed “Merlin!” She jumped up with Cameron right behind her.

When she realized what bad shape he was in, she bent over to check him. Cameron at his other side. “Hurry,” she said. “We need to see if he’s injured so I can heal him.” They both began to search him.

Merlin opened his eyes, he tried to tell them something but nothing came out. He shook his head, no, but she couldn’t understand his meaning. They worked to remove his clothing when suddenly the air around them blurred. She looked up and around. “Where are we?” They appeared to be in a cave, in the same positions they had been in the castle.

Cameron looked around. “This isn’t good.”

Athdar and Drakkor stepped from behind the alter. Drakkor spoke, “Well, well, Cameron McGregor, this is an added surprise. Athdar threw out his hand and in a deep voice said an incantation. She watched as Cameron’s demeanor changed. He seemed suddenly tired and dropped to the floor.

She screamed, “What did you do to him? You pig! You God forsaken, pig!”

Athdar smiled. “God forsaken, yes. Drakkor, tie her up. Then we must go meet Ian.” He laughed. “We’ll leave her on the alter. And this is Cameron McGregor you say, Drakkor?” Drakkor nodded. “Well, well this day just keeps getting better, tie up Cameron McGregor. He’ll be down, but I don’t want to take any chances.”

Athdar grabbed the ropes and handed them to Drakkor. Then he leaned over and grabbed her. She struggled but was no match for him.

“Ian will be here for you and your men. You willna get away with this.”

“Oh, but I will,” he said then grinned wide. “He will be here, make no mistake, but he’ll watch me kill you, then Merlin will watch you both die, and for the grand finale, I will end Merlin’s miserable life.” He laughed.

She felt a blast of worry go through her when she looked into Athdar’s evil glare. He no doubt believed every word and she wasn’t so sure she didn’t either. Stay strong, she told herself. Think of the bairn.

Athdar and Drakkor left after she was tied atop the alter. She thought about the monastery and the monks, she thought about where she was raised, and thought about Mother Thomas. She hadn’t really prayed since she left the convent. Now would be a good time. “Listen tae me,” she said beginning. “Maybe I haven’t done things the right way, but there’s a reason I met Ian. There’s a reason I’m goin’ tae have his bairn. Please doona let it end like this.

“I have believed in you all my life. I have given my life tae protectin’ the ill and injured and have asked for nothing in return. I have believed in prevailing good, always, and you ken that. Please help us.” And she began to sob. “Please,” she said, “doona turn away this time. We need you.” She continued to pray.

****

Athdar was in a rush. “They will come to the monastery looking for us, and we need to be ready. If some of his soldiers make it here, I want them trapped outside. I want McGregor in and them out. I’ll open a portal from inside and take Ian to the cave. You be prepared to grab him when he comes through. I’ll freeze him, you tie him. I want him awake and alert to watch what I’m going to do to Elspeth. I’ll revive Merlin enough to watch, but not all the way. He got the best of me once. He won’t do it again.”

****

Ian and his men fought. They made it to the valley at the same time as Athdar’s men did. There wasn’t time for contemplation or planning, the battle was on. There was all manner of magic and mayhem, the black clouds rolled across the heavens in rumbling anger, lightning struck, the ground shook and then cracked open, and large hordes of black nasty insects were born. The swarm yielding a clacking sound that was almost deafening.

Ator and his dragons dodged lightning and battled through gale winds, tracing fire lines down on those they could. They fried the insects before they could fly toward the crowd of men fighting with swords. They backed up Ian and his men wherever they could.

The werewolves were true to form. They were the size of ponies with two rows of sharp gnashing teeth, claws the length of daggers, growling, attacking, biting, and ripping out throats. The vampires were biting as well, ripping at throats and leaving gushing streams of blood shooting from necks. The fae held fire in their hands and when they threw it onto their opponent’s chest, explosions of sparks left the men screaming. It would have been mass hysteria to anyone looking on, but in this battle very few of his men fell.

They made quick work of Athdar’s army and when there were but five enemy soldiers left, they bolted. He screamed, “follow them! They’ll lead us to Athdar.”

Athdar’s remaining men reached the monastery first, running up the steps and through the doors. Athdar and Drakkor were there to greet them. Athdar yelled over the chaos. “McGregors! Ian! If you want to see Elspeth McLellan alive you will stop your men.”

He held his hand up to halt the men. “Ye doona know where she is.” He kept his voice confident while his stomach sunk. He hoped Athdar was bluffing, but knew he was telling the truth. This was one time he wasn’t sure knowing someone spoke the truth was a good thing. He felt sick.

“Make no mistake I have her, in fact I’ll show you. You and all McGregors shall enter. No one else is to even try or she’s dead. Do you understand?”

Ator sent a silent message. “We can burn the monastery and force them out.”

He thought back, “Nae, I canna take the chance that Elspeth will die. We’ll go in, I doona have a choice. Athdar! We’ll come in!” He called for his brothers and ordered all else to stand down. “We’re coming in Athdar. If it’s a trick, my dragons will burn you alive.”

The door slowly opened. As soon as he and his brothers came through, the door slammed shut. Athdar was on the other side of the room. He instantly froze the McGregors. “Drakkor, guards, tie them up. I’ll open a portal and we’ll bring them through. I’ve put a spell so none can enter. We haven’t much time.” Athdar opened the portal. After the men were tied. Athdar released the freeze.

“Anyone try anything and Elspeth dies. We are going through the portal to where she is. I reiterate, don’t try anything stupid.”

“You heard him. I willna take a chance on her life.”

As soon as they went through he saw Elspeth on the alter. His heart sank. “You okay?” he asked.

“I’m okay Ian, but he plans on killing me in…”

“Shut up, Elspeth! I will tell them what I am going to do!” Athdar shrieked. “She’s right, Guards hold the McGregors! He flew his hand through the air and they all became weak. His brothers dropped to the floor unable to stand.

He watched, his anger so bad, he didn’t comprehend the weakness that befell him. He looked around and saw Merlin and Cameron on the ground. “Are they alive?”

Athdar turned toward him with anticipation in his eyes. “Oh yes. Your brothers will watch the show, then they die, but first I have an order in which I will do things. I am going to kill Elspeth first so you and Merlin can watch, and then I’ll kill your brothers, and just before Merlin, I’m going to kill you. My brother, last but not least, will see you all killed, and then I will enjoy killing him slowly. You see there’s nothing you can do.” He laughed and walked over to the alter.

He thought to Ator, “Ator, we’re in a cave somewhere. We went through a portal, so I doona ken where. Find us. Athdar plans on killing us all. We’re weak, some spell. Can you hear me?”

“Yes, I’ll look for you. Not sure where, but I’ll spread the dragons out. Hang on Ian.”

Athdar flung his arm around the room removing the weakness from the McGregors but not Merlin. Another wave and the McGregors became frozen again. The only thing they could move was their eyes.

He watched as he walked to Merlin and pulled him in to a sitting position. He raised his hand and sent a jolt into Merlin, half reviving him. “I want you to see the show, Merlin, and the boys too.”

Athdar walked to where Elspeth lay and picked up the spelled knife that Merlin originally used to kill Seamus. He ran the tip down Elspeth’s chest. “I’ve waited a long time for this. I plan to enjoy it. You see this knife is a special knife. My brother made it. Specially forged to kill any species. It’s quite magical, kills vampires, fae, most anything, and is very painful. Ironic isn’t it, that I should use a knife that my brother made to kill all that he holds dear? Except for Ian, I owe him a stake to the heart. You see he took an old friend from me with a stake, and well…neither here nor there, his death will be by stake, yours by Merlin’s knife,” he spoke as if caught up in another world.

He looked at Elspeth curiously. “I see you’ve mated. Ian, I suppose.” She didn’t answer and Ian saw she was frozen in fear. He knew Athdar was completely mad. Athdar drew the knife across her chest. Her breathing became fast and shallow. He traveled across one breast and down to her belly. Ian pushed against the freeze spell enraged at not being able to move, anger eating at his insides. He was ready to explode.

Athdar looked farther, and after a frown he smiled. “Well it looks like I won’t be killing only McGregor brothers. It appears to me you have some little McGregors.”

He was stunned. McGregors? More than one?

“Ah, you didn’t know did you. There’s two little heartbeats in her belly.” He laughed. “I’ll cut them out and show you Ian.”

Elspeth finally reacted. “Nae!” she screamed. “Nae!”

He looked toward Merlin. He looked a bit better than he had when they arrived in the cave. Maybe he would be able to help them.

He struggled harder, screaming in his head, but was unable to move a muscle. He was frantic and terrified of being unable to save Elspeth and the bairns. Damn it if only Merlin could break the spell.

Athdar held the knife in one hand and picked up something else. “See this? It’s the stake that is going to kill you Ian. It’s been blessed in holy water, so don’t get your hopes up that you’ll live through it, I guarantee you won’t.”

He glanced around the room at his brother’s frozen forms. Merlin caught his gaze and gave a slight nod of his head. As Athdar picked up the blade and held it over Elspeth’s belly, Merlin gave a jerk of his arm. He felt the spell fall away. He could move.

He turned but before he could reach Athdar, the bastard drove the knife in her chest. He felt his heart sink and his blood boil, letting out a blood curdling scream he lunged for Athdar. He wasn’t quick enough. Athdar grabbed the stake and sunk it in his chest, hitting his heart. Everything went black as he hit the floor.

Athdar laughed insanely as the rest of the McGregors and Merlin fell silent. He knew there was nothing they could do.

****

Ian jumped up. Beside him lay his body. Instantly he was pulled through a swirl of flashing bright lights. He heard a cacophony of men’s voices and realized they were all him. In an instant, he went through every life he ever lived. In each one he was a warrior. Different times, different places, but he remembered them all. Suddenly his purpose was clear.

When he began as a spark, it was as a soldier for good. He started as a thought, then energy, then life. As but a spark he broke away from the One Great God with the intent purpose of fighting for good. Some of his lives were short and some long. He looked different in each one.

In many of those lives he had a wife, a different one each time. No not different, just different vessels just like him. It was Elspeth, always Elspeth. He remembered her and screamed for the God of Light. “Come you bastard! Now!”

Suddenly he was back in the room. He quickly looked around. No one moved. Time had stopped.

“Ian? Son?”

He looked toward the voice. “Da? Eoghan? What are you two doing here. Why has time stopped?”

“I doona ken, son. But it’s good to see you. Though not under these circumstances. I’m sorry son. We’ve been watching over you and the family since we’ve been gone. I miss Moira. Is she happy?”

“Not without you, da, or Eoghan. She thinks of you always. What’s going tae happen tae Elspeth and the bairns?”

“We’ll leave that up to you,” came a booming voice. Suddenly the room filled with light and a red glow. The God of Light and the God of Dark appeared in the room.

“What do you mean by that?”

“Think Ian and remember. Your many lives, your existence, how many times you’ve fallen in battle. Tell me what you’re fighting for.”

“I’m fighting for the rights of others, for the ones who canna do it for themselves, for myself and my family. In all my lives, I’ve battled evil, not once has my family and I lived tae an age of peace, tae watch the ones I love tae grow, I’m tired of the fight.

“I want tae live in peace and be able tae love my family without thinking we’re all going tae die every time I turn around. I understand why I am and I have worked hard tae make sure people and places were safe, now I just want tae live my life with my family. I want tae feel love, and joy, peace, and know what it is like tae just live. I want my Da and my brother back.

“Is it so much tae ask? I want tae see my bairns born, and have many of them, a large family, full of love. Look what’s happened, it always does, I want a different life, one with no worry.”

“You will find there’s always worry, Ian. You will understand there is no pleasure without first knowing pain. You can’t know peace without war. There is no happiness until you’ve known sadness, you can’t understand life, until you’ve understood death.

“Think about that. If there was un-ending peace what questions would you have. Would you understand it as peace? Balance. Understanding. In your heart, you know. You have worked very hard Ian, this is true, and you certainly deserve the happiness you seek.

“If this is your true wish, I will grant it. Eoghan will return with you. It wasn’t his time to leave yet, anyway. Lachlan I’m sorry, you cannot go back.

“You will have your peace Ian but think on it and think hard. The choices are yours. You won’t remember your other lives when you go back or who you truly are, and only a minimal amount of our conversation, but you will have to remember at some point. When you do, I’ll come again and we’ll re-evaluate your circumstances.

“You’ll remember dying and Eoghan going back, your life will be at peace, but your brother’s lives, remain the same. You will go back to McGregor castle and be lord there and live your life in happiness, your brothers will return to Wesladus at Pendragon and continue their work there.”

“What will happen with Athdar? What of Drakkor? Is Elspeth and our bairns alive?”

“Athdar will not be killed. You know the balance of good and evil, as it stands, a necessity. Of everything, including in each one of your souls. Athdar will be taken by the Dark Lord. He will be imprisoned in the bowels of hell for a very lengthy time. You won’t have to worry about him coming after you.

“Drakkor is now dead, Kahn took his life immediately for his transgressions against the rules, his spirit resides in turmoil in demon hell. He cannot rise again. This last fiasco Kahn could not ignore, he had to take action, or answer to the One Great God. As far as Elspeth goes, she’s in bad shape. Speaking of bad shape, Merlin! Wake up.” The God of Light turned to Merlin.

“Am I dead?”

“No Merlin, you know the world can’t get along without you.” The God of Light laughed. “You’re looking a little under the weather and old too. I’ll fix that. He waved his hands and before his eyes Merlin became healthy and young.

“Your brother beat death and is young once again. You know how I like things equal. You have a job to do Merlin. You know what that is.”

“Yes, I do.” Merlin smiled. “Thank you.”

“Will you heal Elspeth, please.” He knew he begged, but felt he had no choice.

“No, Ian, I will not, but behold the beauty and fight of life.” The God of light swept his arm in front of him and disappeared. He was once again in his body. The stake was gone and he jumped up to fight Athdar and Drakkor. They too were gone.

He ran to Elspeth and grabbed her hand. Everyone was released from their frozen states and Eoghan was there.

His brothers were hugging and talking, but he could only see Elspeth. He pulled the knife from her chest. “Wake up dearling, please.” She didn’t move. He watched in slow motion as the blood seeped from her chest and drop by drop slid slowly down her side and off the table to hit the floor, each drop a splash he could swear resounded through his body. The whole slow-motion scene surreal. The ripples from each drop flowing through him, killing him as surely as someone slowly pushing a knife in his heart and twisting. He watched her life blood leaving.

Then in a sudden moment of clarity he pressed his hand to her wound to try and stop the bleeding. He fell to his knees and lay his head to her chest and listened to her heart beat slow.

In his anguish, he raised his head and gave a grief ridden howl that bellowed from deep in his soul, echoed loudly through the cave walls, shaking all around. All his brothers stopped and gathered around concern etching their worried faces.

Silence hung in the air as he buried his face in her neck and sobbed. She lay dying, still, silent, and pale. Ian held her limp hand and squeezed, with his other he gently placed it to her stomach, unknowingly, gently rubbing over his dying babes.

All his training as a soldier and leader seemed pointless. He was losing his woman, the only one he wanted for his wife, his only love, and his whole world. His children he’d never meet, never see their first steps, hear their first words, or watch them grow up. The tender heart that Elspeth single handedly nourished in him until it bloomed, shattered.

His grief was beyond words, he held her, feeling her slip away and knowing there was nothing he could do to stop it. “Why couldn’t you save her?” He yelled to the God of Light. He gave up then, he no longer cared to live or die. He wanted to go with her, he wished he could have stayed dead. He knelt there in a stupor, until Merlin nudged him. He brushed his hand from his shoulder.

“Ian, look,” said Merlin. He raised his tear stained face.

“Leave me, Merlin. All of you!” he shouted. “Oot! Get the hell oot!”

“Damn it, Ian, look,” said Merlin, shaking him. He forced him to turn his head. There within Elspeth’s stomach, dimly but sure, came a green light that traveled from its starting point to the wound in her chest. Dumbfounded, he watched in amazement as the wound slowly began to heal.

Little by little the bleeding stopped, and the wound began to knit before his eyes. When it was done, the light went out and she halfway opened her eyes. “Ian,” she whispered hoarsely. “I thought you dead. I saw Athdar stake you. You’re alive!”

An anguished moan slipped from his lips. With a quiver to his voice, he said, “Elspeth, my Elspeth, so are you. How? You were dying, so close to death. You are amazing Elspeth you healed yourself while you were oot.”

She looked confused. “I canna do that, Ian, tis not possible.”

“Then how did you heal, if the God of Light dinna do it, then who?”

She suddenly seemed to understand. She put her hand on her belly. “I think we are goin’ tae have some lil’ healers on our hands, it was the bairns. They healed me.” She rubbed her belly softly.

He had tears in his eyes and he thought about what the God of Light said about the beauty and fight for life. His was indeed a beautiful life.

He looked at Elspeth. “Everything is goin’ to be all right from here oot. I promise. Athdar and Drakkor are gone. They were taken to hell. Athdar pretty much for good, caged there. Drakkor is dead, Kahn killed him, and he’s suffering in demon hell.

“As long as he isn’t here, that’s all I care aboot. I love you Elspeth,” he said as he kissed her. “I’m officially retired. We’ll live at McGregor castle where I’ll be laird and you lady, alongside Mither of course. We’ll raise our family and be happy.”

Suddenly he felt a twinge, something niggling the back of his brain. A small voice flowed through him. “Remember who you are.” He’d heard that voice before when he lay in bed after the kearal did something to his mind, he let it go, shuddered, and shook it off.

“I love you too Ian. Can we get oot of here?”

He laughed. Over joyed, he grabbed up Elspeth in his arms, kissed her soundly until Merlin grabbed his forearm. Merlin stood beside him. “My gods you look young and handsome!”

Merlin laughed. “I think everything turned out all right this battle. Let’s get your men and dragons, and go home, shall we?”

Home he thought, hmmm. He shook his head. “Come Els, I need tae thank the men and tell them a job well done. There is usually a celebration after a battle is won. I’ll have the men spend the rest of today getting their wives, ladies, whoever they want.

“Tomorrow we’ll have a daylong party in celebration in Wesladus. Then I’ll tell them I’m retiring and have someone fill my place.” He grabbed her hand and pulled her up.

Merlin looked at all the boys. “I think it’s time you all went home for a while and enjoy yourselves. Stay until the wedding and the party afterward. With Athdar deep in hell with no way out, we should be sitting good for a while.

“There’s still the issue of the ether and unaccounted men. But none of your concern Ian. Now is the time for joy, and celebration, Eoghan is home! We have so much to be thankful for. I will get the portal ready and we can go to where the dragons and men wait.

“I will take care of Pendragon while everyone’s away. I have some reading to catch up on. I will be there for the wedding though.”

He watched Merlin ready the portal. “I doona think I’ll ever get used to seeing Merlin young. Has anyone here ever seen a young Merlin?” Everyone agreed with him that it was a sight to behold.

“He’s been old as long as I can remember.” He went to Eoghan. “I’m so glad you’re back brother!” He hugged him. “We have to talk aboot what happened. I doona remember much. Blasted God of Light wiped some of my memory.”

“I doona remember much either, only that when I died it was not my time. I could come back, but da couldn’t. Why, I wonder…”

“Come on, the portal is open,” said Merlin. “Let’s go.”

When they walked through the portal, outside the monastery, everyone cheered. He loved these men. He’d miss them. “Remember who you are…” came the whisper once again from the back of his mind. “Who said that?” He asked and looked around. No one else seemed to notice, so he let it go.

He smiled at the men then held up his hand for silence. It took a bit, but they finally settled down. Elspeth stood beside him holding his hand, smiling along beside him.

“Men,” he said. “First off. Job weel done! We beat the Kearals! Dragons bless you for being here! Thank you. We couldn’t have done it withoot you! You guys kicked them all back tae hell!” Cheers went up, and he held his hand up again. “I couldn’t be prouder of my men or you dragons. You should be proud of yourselves! We had a job tae do and we did it.

“The rest of today you go and get your wives, lady friends, or friends because tomorrow we celebrate. Be back tonight, because tomorrow is an all-day affair! Dancing, drinkin’, and making bairns You can take leave now and find your friends here in outer earth, then use the stationary portal back tae Wesladus.”

“See ye all there, and congratulations on a job well done. Dismissed.”

Everyone roared and talked at once.

Ator caught his attention. “Ian, I know what happened to you and Elspeth. I’m sorry you went through it. You really need to reconsider your retirement. These men need you. You are a great leader.” Ator had a look, and he felt he knew more than he was saying.

“You ken something doona ye, Ator. You ken everything that happened when I died, you were there in my mind. What did you see, what did the God of Light make me forget?”

“I cannot tell you things, I am not at liberty to talk about, Ian. Don’t ask. I will just say this, there are some things you have to decide for yourself. Now leave it at that for I will not say any more.”

“A damn good friend you are,” he said, frowning, without thinking and not really meaning it.

“That I am, Ian, and one of these days you will understand that.”

“I’m sorry, Ator. I didn’t mean it, you ken that. I ken the God of Light, it has tae be hard on you. Thank you for bein’ here with us, fighting with us.”

“I know Ian. You just went through a great deal, I understand, truly. I’m glad to oblige. Please, though, think about your men they do need you.”

“With Athdar gone, the men can train. I’ll make sure one of my brothers replace me, and that the men will be in good hands. We’ll still be close. I willna forget you.”

“I know Ian, but your brothers, they aren’t you, Ian. You have leadership talent. Please think about it. I’ll miss you.”

“Elspeth and I will visit often,” he said, knowing full well his friend was going to miss him. He felt Ator didn’t want him to leave his men, because he didn’t want to lose him. He wouldn’t let that happen. “While all the family is at the McGregor Keep, why doona ye and Saphira stay above the loch. It would be nice tae have you there. Besides there’s a little girl, weel not so little anymore, who wants tae ride a dragon.”

“I’ll ask Saphira, we’ll have to move the little ones again, but I think she’ll want to. She is very close to Elspeth. Well, I’ll leave you now and get my dragons back.”

“Hey Ator…”

Ator turned around, “yes?”

“Thank you, you and all of your dragons, but especially you. You’ve been a true friend through everything, and I just want you tae ken…”

“I know,” said Ator. “I feel the same.” He smiled a wide dragon smile and then left.

Elspeth was talking to Eoghan and he walked up and took her hand. He caught part of something about the bairns. She laughed and looked at him with longing. He felt it inside as well. He was happy. “Ready?” he asked.

“Aye.”

Back at Wesladus in Pendragon, Elspeth was upset. “Your Mither was goin’ tae teach me how tae run a household. I ken nothing of having a party. I wish she were here.”

“Eoghan! Can you come here for a bit?”

“Sure, what do you need?” he walked over.

“I think it would be nice if you went today and saw Mither, spend some time with her. Bring her and the girls back here for the party. But, not tae late. Elspeth would like her here tae help arrange things. Would you do that?”

“Sure, I’ll leave right away.”

“Problem solved.” He grinned. “My Mither will be here tae help.”

Elspeth kissed him. “My new dresses! I forgot, I can wear one tomorrow. Och, Ian, a party. It’ll be such fun!” and she kissed him again. “Later, later,” she whispered.

He looked in her eyes. “Yes, most definitely, later, later.” He grabbed her and kissed her hard.

“Better yet, now, now, and he picked her up and started up the stairs.” Leaving the men all laughing downstairs. He didn’t care. He loved Elspeth, they were both alive, and he intended on celebrating the fact.

He threw her on the bed and she laughed. He tore at her clothes and she did the same to his. They couldn’t get naked quick enough. He kissed her deep and passionate. His erection bounced to life. It seemed because of what happened everything was heightened. He could feel her every breath, every touch left sensations across his skin. Her dress was half torn off, his shirt the same. She laughed, “get me oot of this!” she said as she tugged her dress. He had that and his pants off in an instant.

He was back beside her licking her neck, she shivered and clawed at his shoulders. He didn’t have time to slow down. Not this time. He reached down and felt her damp and ready. He didn’t waste time and in one smooth stroke he entered and buried himself inside her and had the intense feeling of coming home.

She sunk her nails scratching across his back. She was so hot, and sheathed inside her wet tightness, his breath caught and he groaned. He stilled waiting for the throbbing to ebb. When it did, he withdrew and buried himself again. God’s, she felt good. He didn’t think he’d last long.

She grabbed him around the neck, “Please Ian, hard and fast. I need it now.” He did. They slammed against each other, staring in each other’s eyes, and when she was about to shatter he sank his fangs into her neck.

She screamed his name and came apart in his arms. He screamed hers and stiffened while his seed emptied. When he let go she latched on and sent them both to the place of another earth-shattering orgasm. They were breathing hard and she was gulping. They laughed and held each other. Worn out from earlier, they fell asleep holding each other.

When they awoke a couple of hours later, they decided they should make an appearance downstairs and headed to the meeting hall. Merlin came through a portal with Moira, the girls and Eoghan. Just in time he thought, he could tell she’d been crying, her eyes were red.

He supposed it was happiness for Eoghan, but sadness for Lachlan. Whatever the case, she was clinging to Eoghan like she might lose him again if she let go, but she finally did. She went and hugged Elspeth. “A party, hu? It weel be such fun. Do you know which dress you’ll be wearing? I brought all your things.”

“Thank you, I was hoping you’d help me pick it oot… Moira? I doona know how tae throw a party, will you help me?”

“Of course, child. Stick by me and you’ll ken how by the end of the day.” Moira laughed, and he loved it.

He looked around at his family. He thought about his Da. He whispered, “I wish you were here, Da.” He smiled. He knew Lachlan was watching. He could feel him in the room. Elspeth and Moira went to the kitchens laughing.

The girls wanted to go to the ocean and find shells. Merlin looked around. He still couldn’t get over a young Merlin. He laughed. He wondered how long he’d stay young. He watched as everyone laughed, he too felt good. He thought he’d go outside and greet the soldiers coming in. He snickered at his brothers, then turned and left the castle.

****

Ator stood with Saphira, exasperated. “Saphira, I was there, you know how the connection works. I heard everything that the God of Light told Ian. Ian’s whole purpose is, has been, and always will be a protector of the weak. He can’t retire, and I can’t tell him. The God of Light wiped his memory. I have to help him remember, if he wastes his life, and remembers when he is old, he will hate himself.”

“You know you cannot go against anything the God of Light says or does. You cannot tell him the truth about anything that the God of Light has wiped from his memory. No Ator, you stay here, leave Ian be, I’m sure there is a reason for it. You aren’t to interfere.”

He paced and thought, snorted smoke, and thought some more. Saphira laughed, and he quickly turned. “What?”

“You are a good friend, Ator. You care deeply for Ian, that is obvious, but there are some things he must figure out on his own. Have some faith in your friend.”

“Perhaps you are right.” He snorted again. “I shall go hunt and get this energy off my chest.” He went to the edge and dove off.

He landed outside Pendragon as Ian was walking outside, good, he thought, he didn’t need to call him. Ian looked up and smiled. “Weel, I see you made it back. What brings you here, are you going tae stay above the loch for the weddin’?”

“Oh yes, but I’ve come to tell you something else you may want to know. I wasn’t going to mention it, because you want to retire so bad, but I’m going to tell you anyway in hopes you’ll reconsider your position.

“When we flew down the mountain, I’m sure I saw Athdar’s remaining men, but that’s not all, I think there is someone else that may be close to Athdar in skill. It was someone I’d never seen before, tall man, dark hair and eyes, could be anyone, I know, but he opened a portal, and they went through. It seemed this person was leading them.”

“Hmmm,” said Ian. “I will tell Merlin, perhaps he knows. He and my brothers will take care of it, I’m sure.”

He looked at Ian, exasperated, but he knew what he had just gone through. Time, he thought, perhaps in time he’d change his mind. He had to quit pushing him, but he just couldn’t help it. He just had to try. He had a bad feeling about the man he saw, and he felt the only one smart enough to figure things out, was his friend and leader of the Myraid Army.

If he could just pull a thread of his memory out, well maybe then he could remember everything. He had hoped, oh well… He’d leave it go for a while. Knowing tonight was going to get him nowhere, he changed the subject.

“I will leave you to the men. Saphira and I are going to have our own celebration, if you know what I mean.” He snorted.

“Yes, I do, in fact, Elspeth and I have started ours already.” Ian laughed. “We’re lucky tae have such fine women, are we not?”

“Indeed, we are. I shall see you tomorrow, we’ll all fly around and dip in to say hi. Sort of join the party.”

“Do dragons dance?” Ian asked and laughed.

“Actually, we do, we have a mating dance we perform when we select a mate. But it only happens once. Have you ever seen a fat dragon try to dance? Not a pretty sight, believe me.

“I don’t know whether the females find it funny, or attractive, but it’s been done throughout history. I should ask Saphira. Now I’m curious.” They both laughed. He put his snout near Ian and Ian reached up to brush the side of his face. “I’m glad you’re alive Ian, I would have sorely missed you had anything happened.”

“I know,” said Ian. “I never knew a dragon and a mon could form a bond, but it’s pretty thick, isn’t it?”

“Yes, as Saphira is with Elspeth. Which speaking about, I’m out hunting berries and worogild. I’m not here, right?” he snorted.

“Right. I never saw you, and you dinna tell me anythin’.”

****

Ian turned and watched the men coming in. Most laughing and hanging on to a female. He thought the party a great idea. It would be good for the men to bond over something besides battle.

He hoped some good friends would be made and not limited to their own species. He hoped those boundaries would fall during this party. How was he going to leave these men? He scratched his head, the voice again floated through his mind. He ignored it, shook his head, and took off toward the keep.

His brothers were already hitting the mead, their deep boisterous voices floated out to meet Ian. He was happy and anxious to get in his cups and join them. He grabbed a tankard and poured himself a full cup, drank half, and slammed it to the table. In seconds, he was caught up in conversation about the battle.

Elspeth and Moira went floating by, Elspeth dropped a kiss on his head, he went to grab her and put her on his lap, but she avoided him, laughing. “Your Mither and I are headed up tae our room. She’s going tae help me pick oot a dress.”

“Weel, I willna stop you then. I canna wait tae see you tomorrow Els. Your bonnie anyway, but tae see you all done up in a fine dress, weel thinkin’ aboot it makes my mouth water,” he whispered, and grinned.

****

Moira and Elspeth laughed the entire time. They had all the dresses spread atop the bed. Elspeth held up a necklace. “I was trying tae think if I have a favorite necklace, but I love them all. Which dress should I wear Moira?”

“Weel since Ian didn’t see you yet in any of the fancy gowns, let’s dazzle him tomorrow. My favorite dress is the dark green one,” she said as she lifted it from the bed. “It really brings oot the color of your eyes. They are so bonnie, Elspeth, they sparkle, especially when you are looking at my Ian. You really love him doona you?”

She stopped and looked at Moira. “So much, that sometimes I feel I may explode with what I feel. You ken, I can feel him when he’s comin’ tae me, when he’s close I can hear his thoughts, and he mine. I’ve never experienced such a feeling afore.”

Moira laughed. “Och, my Lachlan could make me feel the same, and if he was upset or mad, I could always get him laughin’. I think lovin’ someone fully is like that. We just ken what tae say tae each other, we ken what each other is feelin’.

“I wish he could have come home with Eoghan. I miss him so much that there are days I feel I canna go on. If I dinna have my children, I doona think I’d be here now. He’s the first thing I think of when I wake, and the last thing I think of when I fall asleep. I’m happy for you Els, you have Ian and he’s retiring for you and the bairns. You willna lose him like I did Lachlan.”

“You will be with him again, Moira, I ken it in my heart. Someday.”

“Aye, someday, but it doesn’t keep me warm today. That sounds selfish of me, doesn’t it?”

“That’s okay, Moira. When it comes tae love, I think we need tae be selfish, sure you have the children tae think aboot, but love for Lachlan is what made those children. Withoot him and you together first, there’d have been no bairns. Almost losin’ Ian made me see some things clearly.

“Withoot him, I doona think I would want tae live. He’s changed my life in such a way I never kenned existed. I feel whole now, like all my life half of me was missing, and it was. It was Ian, he’s filled so many holes in my life, that I could never go back tae the way I was. Ne’er.”

Moira squeezed her hand in understanding. “Weel, what do you think? The dark green? I think it is lovely. Plus, with a corset, Ian’s eyes may pop from his head. You are going tae fill the dress oot fabulously. I canna wait tae see you in it either. What shoes do you have? Did you get the satin slippers tae match?”

“Aye! I almost forgot aboot them.” She rushed to the wardrobe where her dresses hung. She bent over and shuffled around coming up with them. The dark green satin was definitely beautiful, she thought. She brought them over and placed them on the dress along with citrine necklace. She leaned back turning her head side to side. “What do you think, Moira?”

“Perfect,” she said. “You will be the bonniest of them all.”

Elspeth put the dresses away and turned to Moira. “Thanks Moira, you’ve been such a great help tae me. I learned so much today aboot having a party. It’s quite fun tae prepare for one. Choosing food, and finding music, I can hardly wait.” She yawned. “Och, what a day it’s been. Did Eoghan tell you my bairns healed me?”

“Yes, he did. Tell me Elspeth how do you feel aboot Ian’s retirement?”

“I willna try and persuade him one way or another, but personally I think he is making a mistake. He’s an excellent leader, he loves his men, and it is just who Ian is. Tae take that away from him, is taking part of who he is, and that is part of what I love aboot him.

“He is verra strong willed, he feels he is doin’ right by us, but he doesn’t understand, I’m a healer, my bairns are healers, at least one of them is. If they are tae follow their destiny, what do I teach them? Tae be a healer a person has tae have true convictions tae it, or it willna work. Tae be a healer you are around wounded soldiers more than any other, I doona want tae hide them from what they are, I doona think I can. I doona want Ian tae hide from who he is, but I canna tell him. He has tae see it. What do you think, Moira? Am I wrong?”

“Nae, my dear, you are right. If Ian wants tae protect you and your bairns, he has tae to do that. Doona forget he lost his father tae a fight. He kens how that made him feel. He came close, verra close, tae losing you just today. He couldn’t live with himself if he lost you. I ken my son, it would destroy him.

“Give him time tae figure things oot. In the end, he’ll make the right decision, and if it is tae leave the battles and the wars behind, you need tae ken if you can live with that. You can teach your children tae heal the sick and old, they may not want any more than that. And that is something you willna ken until they learn aboot themselves.

“Right now, nothing has tae be done or decided. We have a wedding tae plan, bairns tae be born, a life filled with pleasure. There is no one tae fear at this time, so I say we enjoy ourselves.” Moira smiled. “Ian chose wisely, I’m happy you are part of the family.”

“Thank you, Moira, for everything. I feel at ease speaking my true feelin’s to you. I’ve never had that afore.” She hugged Moira who returned the hug with affection.

“Shall we see aboot dinner? I think my boys are probably in their cups by now. We should probably feed them.”

They walked arm in arm down the wide staircase. Moira commented on the ornate surroundings and was lighthearted. She felt the same way.

After dinner Ian jumped up and grabbed her. She giggled and said, “put me down! Your family is watching.”

“I doona care if the whole damn world watches. I’m taken the woman I love tae bed!”

“Ian, the mead has clogged your brain.”

He took her up two steps at a time. She squealed all the way.

After they made love twice, they fell asleep in each other’s arms. She felt safe, and she felt the same for their bairns. Maybe Ian was right. Maybe they could have a peaceful life together.

****

Moira was at the table when she and Ian walked down the next morning. The boys came dragging themselves down and were quiet as they ate breakfast. They were all deep in their cups the night before, and this morning it was apparent they were feeling it.

Elspeth wondered what they’d be like tomorrow. She smiled. Everything was pretty much set for the party. They had a few hours yet before it’d start. Merlin had the music coming, so she didn’t need to worry about that.

Food would be brought out all day and set on the sideboards, that way people could eat when they wanted. She had watched Moira get the cook and maids in order, and she felt things would run smoothly. She was going to have Moira do her hair.

After she broke her fast, she returned to her room to take a bath. She had her gown, slippers, and necklace on the bed, ready to be put on. She thought about being here at Wesladus. It felt like home to her, and she was going to miss it. She liked McGregor Keep and especially the people in it, but this place held a special place in her heart.

She’d miss hearing the shouting and sounds of training in the morning. She’d miss this room, she’d especially miss the dragons, Ator, Saphira, Sorrilth, and Kalon. She wished Ian would realize what he was doing. She couldn’t help but think he’d miss these things too. She’d let it go though, she loved Ian that much, if this is what he wanted, then she too wanted it.

She sighed, leaned back and closed her eyes. As she did, a soft knock came and Moira and the giggling girls burst in the room. She was pleasantly surprised. Moira had on a red velvet gown and with her long black hair, looked stunning. “You’re so bonnie, Moira, red suits you favorably, especially with your long black hair. You girls bonnie as weel, you all look like a field of fine bloomin’ flowers.”

“Thank you, Elspeth,” said Moira. “I’m going tae put my hair up like I’ll do yours. We came tae help you get dressed and do your hair.”

“I’d love that, thank you.”

They laughed, giggled, dressed, and did their hair. She felt that they looked striking when they headed down the stairs, the girls following behind.

****

The music was going, people laughing and talking, the party was in full swing.

Ian was in a corner talking to Larc, Conall, Eoghan, and Finn. When he looked up and saw his Mither and Elspeth walking down the stairs arm in arm, he stopped mid-sentence.

He didn’t think Elspeth could be more beautiful. Her hair was done up and red stray ringlets brushed against her long white neck. Ian’s incisors started to come down and he had to hurriedly take control.

The green gown matched her sparkling eyes, her bosom bounced with each step, her creamy white cleavage begging to be touched. The tight waist showed off her voluptuous hips, and his mouth watered.

Each pleat of the full skirt shown like silky waves as the light hit it. This was definitely his favorite gown for her to wear. Green was his new favorite color, but she was definitely his favorite woman.

Moira and Elspeth seemed to float to them. His Mither was a good influence on her. They were both smiling and happy.

“Enjoying yourself?” Elspeth asked.

“Aye, immensely,” he said staring at her. “Especially now, my bonnie lady.”

She blushed. The music sped up and Ian grabbed her to dance across the floor.

Moira watched and smiled. Larc looked at Moira, “Would you like to dance, my lady?” Moira smiled a wistful smile and let Larc lead her out.

After lots of dancing a portal opened and Merlin appeared with Angus and a dark-haired stranger. He watched his brother argue with the beautiful woman.

Elspeth whispered in his ear, “That’s my queen, Edina. But why are they arguing?”

They moved across the floor to meet the newcomers.

“I didn’t want to come! I didn’t need to come! I don’t need to be here,” said the queen.

“I am supposed tae protect you!” said Angus. “I told you I would do my job, and I will. Now shut your geggie and try tae have some fun. These soldiers saved your sorry arse and they deserve some respect.”

Edina frowned and then donned a smile that was clearly forced.

“Look at it this way Edina, now that the threat tae you and your people are taken care of, and as soon as the books are set straight, and your people in a better place, I can leave. That shouldn’t take much longer. ’Til then I weel be protecting you. That should make you happy.”

“That will make me very happy,” she said tentatively.

He moved with Elspeth by his side to greet Edina. His mother, Larc and his brothers were right behind him.

Edina seemed pleasant and remembered Elspeth immediately. “Elspeth, what a pleasant surprise. I am glad to see you happy and well. I am sorry for what happened. I didn’t know…”

“Doona fash yourself. You aren’t like him. I ken. I felt bad for you.”

The party ended with a few brawls which was normal. It was a great success and almost everyone left in their cups stumbling about. When the evening died down and Angus left with the queen, Elspeth turned to him and asked. “What did you think of the queen and Angus?”

“I think they hate each other.”

Elspeth laughed. “I think quite the opposite. Dinna you see him watchin’ her all night? I think he doesn’t ken it yet, but he is struck by her.”

He laughed, “Angus? No way. Now, let’s go up and let me take you oot of that dress like I’ve been wanting tae all night.”

Elspeth put her arm through his and they walked up the stairs.