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T
he day started out with a dreary drizzle that finally stopped midmorning, leaving a layer of fog over the moor and farm. Jamie was laid to rest next to his Margaret, who had been buried here when she had passed away years ago. The four brothers carried his coffin from the pony cart and gently placed it in the recently dug grave. Then they joined Da, Uncle Andrew, Caitlin and Millie to stand next to the site. All the farmhands were there as well.
Willie and Henson had found their way inside the circle of stones and lay atop the small one in the center. Caitlin was the only one to see that both were bathed in a ray of golden light — just for a second — and then it was gone. Even they understood the family had lost a loved one. Caitlin felt the familiar tug once again, but she knew this was not the time to enter the circle. She would come again, later.
The vicar read a short scripture and sprinkled holy water on Jamie's coffin, then offered a final prayer for his soul. The lads had agreed to complete the burial process and Millie handed them the floral arrangement to lay on the grave once they finished. The small group slowly walked to the lodge together — a family with a dear one missing now.
Entering the lodge and making their way to the kitchen, Daniel and Andrew had coffee laced with a wee dram. They had lived long enough to know time would offer a small reprieve from grief, but only when it was ready. Daniel went to his room and Andrew decided to ready himself for his trip to Edinburgh. Millie put Midge in her crib and began to prepare supper for the lot. She would prepare a dish that would stick to their bones in the damp chill that still hung around the lodge.
Jack and Alex gathered by the fireplace, ostensibly planning strategy for finding Deirdre. They didn't have to compare notes and thoughts; they were in agreement that she was the culprit. Early tomorrow they would get underway and take steps to insure she would not be around to hurt anyone else.
This day was set aside for observing Jamie's contributions to their lives, a tradition that Mam had instituted. Rather than going around brooding and grieving over the death of a loved one or neighbor, Mam thought it much better to recall fond memories of them and share them with each other.
"As long as they are alive in your memory, they're never gone from you."
Mam had said that so often they all believed it was gospel.
~ * ~
EARLY NEXT MORNING, everyone tried to begin the day with purpose. Millie worked on her plans for the school, Uncle Andrew started out for Edinburgh again, and Caitlin decided she'd start an inventory of herbs she would need for making tinctures and ointments for her clinic. She would not abandon this idea. She just needed to work harder on Alex to get his agreement. Alex and Jack left in search of Deirdre again.
"You go to the Taggart place, Jack. Deirdre may well have gone to pay her respects to her mam. Caitlin still thinks the lass is under the influence of an herb or potion. But I personally think she's capable of just about anything. I've witnessed firsthand how she treated her mam over the years."
"Aye, I feel the same way. The girl never was very bright, but still, that's no excuse for treating her mam with disrespect. Our own mam would have pinned her ears, I can tell ye that much."
"Aye, and then some. I'll go to the cave and see if I can find anything there that might help us locate her. We'll meet at the lodge at nightfall. See where we go from there. If either of us finds her, let's agree to take her to the constable in the village. Let him figure out what to do with the idiot woman."
"Agreed. Then I'll see ye this evening at home. And Alex, be careful, brother. She still carries a torch for ye, and that's a fact. Ye know, a 'woman scorned' and all that stuff."
"Well, this is the last time I plan on having to deal with her again. If I have to take care of her myself, take her to an asylum or whatever, I'll do it. She's not going to come within an inch of Caitlin again . . . ever."
They departed, each going his own way. Alex had thought long about where to find Deirdre and decided she would either be at home or in that cave, so he was not surprised when he saw a soft light coming from the cave entrance. He entered quietly, listening and watching before heading on back. He could smell her, and even though it was a floral smell, he associated it with disgust.
"Alex? Is that you? I knew you would come for me. I knew you would." Deirdre sat on the floor smiling at him as he came closer.
Alex stopped, all the while fighting a great urge to strike this woman. Or even something more drastic. He actually wanted to kill her. Unable to control his anger any longer, he reached out and jerked her to her feet, causing her to spill her tea and to gasp at his rough handling.
"Alex, what's wrong?"
Coming to grips with his anger, he knew he must try to deal with her and get her to the constable. He released her and she sat back down on the floor, then proceeded to pour another cup of tea for herself and one for him. It was as if she failed to see the desperate situation she was in.
"Yes, Deirdre. I'm here. We need to get ye home. Let's go now, lass.”
"Come, Alex. Let's have a cup of tea together first. Then I'll go with ye. I need ye to take me to check on me mam. She's poorly, ye ken?"
Alex stood looking at the woman. How had the lass become so unhinged, become so hideous?
"Here, just a quick sip of tea. Then we'll go." She patted the blanket beside her, indicating he was to sit there, close to her.
Taking the cup, he sat down next to her and sipped the warm tea. It felt good. It had become darn cold outside and this warmed his insides. Then he took a long swallow of the tasty liquid and turned to her. "Why did you leave? Caitlin was trying to take care of ye. She's quite a skilled healer and... she...sh..."
He slumped over, his tea spilling across the blanket.
Deirdre smiled and called out. "Nezzie! Nezzie, he's sleeping now. Help me."
Nezzie came hobbling into the room as quickly as her old legs would allow. "Good. That's good. Now that woman, that healer, will come looking for him. We've caught them now, my lass. Ye stay here now and wait for her. There are a few things I need to do before she gets here. Just stay here with the Highlander."
~ * ~
ON THE MORNING FOLLOWING Jamie's burial, Ian disappeared without a word to anyone as to where he was headed. He had hoped Uncle Wabi would have made an appearance by now, but so far he hadn't. After saddling Merlin, he threw a double-sided saddlebag on his back. He often packed the bags with his books and a few snacks when he went out riding. Now he started off, surprised to see Henson trotting behind him.
"Whoa, now, Merlin. If that cat wants to come that badly, then we'll take him with us."
He dismounted and plucked his new friend from the ground, cradling him under his arm.
"Come on. Ye'll tire yourself out trying to follow Merlin. He likes nothing better than to fly like the wind, and if I'm no careful, he'll tear off like a bean nighe's (banshee) after him. Here, settle yerself in this saddlebag. Ye'll like it once ye get used to it. Traveling with Merlin is a lot better than running beside him."
He gently placed the big cat in one side of the bag and remounted, not really sure where he was going. But he had to get away for just a short while. Seeing old Jamie being lowered into the ground brought memories of watching them lay Mam to rest. Ian thought he would rather they put him in with her, so great was his feeling of loss. But he had already learned she was still with him, every day, and some days he thought he could smell her rose scent riding the wind.
Henson settled quickly and off they went. In a short while they arrived at the old kirk where he always went when he was trying to figure out a problem. He dismounted, handed his friend down and walked around the old grounds, seeing bits and pieces of stones that must have been statues or urns.
Walking farther into the old ruins, he came again to the area where he had played in his youth. Once again, he saw the little collection of wooden, toy soldiers that Da had carved, still lying there just as he had left them.
His feline friend was clawing at a small dug-out indentation next to the wall of the kirk. Ian reached out and untangling Henson's claws from a piece of fabric, saw it was a small burlap bag tied at the top. He sat cross-legged and opened the bag, emptying the contents into his hand. There were a dozen or more shards of colored rocks and several smooth stones. He had totally forgotten about those items, but now remembered he had collected them long ago. One stone in particular caught his attention. It was a small stone, about the size of a robin's egg. It was a deep amber color, almost totally translucent. Deep inside it he could see small flecks of green. If you held it to the light, the green specks sent out sparks of light as if the sun had been trapped inside. There was something about that amber colored crystal. What was it? A memory so old . . . he couldn't bring it to mind, but he knew it was an important memory. Not dwelling on it, he tucked it into his pocket, replaced the burlap bag, and lined the soldiers along the wall as he had always done.
Then he listened for a moment. A noise? But what? From where? There was no one else here, and these barely standing walls were all that was left of the old kirk. He walked behind the wall and listened again. Then, realizing he had never ventured farther back where the rear wall was covered with brush, Ian made his way through the thick tangle of vines and dead trees that were piled high. As he was becoming another one of those tall MacKinnon lads, he had to bend over just to get close to the wall. His nose caught a whiff of an odor that he recognized immediately — sulphur.
But there was no sulphur water here at the kirk. The only sulphur he knew about was located at the cave near where his brothers had played when they were children—at the waterfall where Caitlin had found Deirdre. Carefully inching his body, using the wall as a reference point, he continued to move deep within the brush, until he couldn't see. The brush had been growing here for years and it totally eclipsed any light from above.
Ian touched the wall, feeling the roughness of the stone of the old kirk. Then, just as he decided he would go back, his fingers felt a smoothness, a change in the texture of the stone. This area was not rough like the rest of the wall. The smooth area was about the size of a small book and Ian ran his fingers along all the edges, which were rounded on the corners. In a moment of insight, he pushed gently on the stone. At first nothing happened, but when he pushed again the smooth stone fell inward, dropping away from his hand. Before Ian could think what to do next, his companion cat made a flying leap and dashed through the opening in the wall.
"Wait, Henson. Wait."
The agile critter moved on as if he hadn't heard a word.
Ian reached inside and, stroking with his fingertips, felt a small handle on the inside of the opening. Not knowing what might happen, he pulled at the handle and the lower portion of the stone wall slowly opened. It was a doorway of sorts.
But it must have been built for midgets.
He'd read about those small people in one of Mam's books. Even at only fourteen years old, he was almost six feet tall and had to crawl on his knees to get inside.
Holy sheep shite! What is this place?
He hoped Mam wasn't listening, but he sure wished someone else was here with him. It was darker than Hades and he sat quietly and tried to figure out what to do next. Henson rubbed against him, letting him know he wasn't totally alone. Then the large feline started to walk away as if he knew exactly where he was headed.
"No, don't go farther in Henson. We don't know where this leads."
But the cat, in a usual independent feline way, dismissed him and walked on, meowing quietly as if to tell him which way he was going.
Ian crawled a few feet into the area, still not sure if he could stand. It was pitch-black.
If only I could see.
He had produced a lighted torch when they were looking for Caitlin, but he was still hesitant to use his powers unless absolutely necessary. And, actually, he was not sure he could do it again. Then as he looked at his kilt, he saw a dim light coming from his sporran. He reached inside and pulled out the amber stone, which was giving off a very faint glow, enough for him to see a bit. What kind of stone did that? He couldn't recall ever reading anything about a stone that glowed in the dark. But this one did, faint though it was. Once again the remnants of a memory niggled around the edges of his brain — but he still couldn't bring it to the surface.
Even in the dim glow he could see there was a tunnel leading off to the right and Henson had headed that way. He had no idea where this might lead, but he decided to follow his cat. He'd heard they had nine lives, but he wasn't so sure about himself.
~ * ~
MILLIE'S SUPPER WAS well underway and she was pouring over her papers, the plans she was making for opening a school at the lodge.
"Caitlin? Is that you? Come look at these plans and tell me what you think. Jack's behind me, but he won't discuss much of the details with me."
Caitlin took a seat at the old pine table and nursed her cocoa. It really had been just the thing to take away the chill of another dismal day. The dreary weather had begun yesterday with Jamie's burial.
"At least he's in agreement with you. I can't even get Alex to talk about me starting a clinic yet. And Millie, I'm not feeling like myself. I've got to have purpose to my life again. These Highlands are so full of folk in need of care. There could be twenty of me and that wouldn't be enough. But I could help a few of them. If only Alex would listen to me. I know what I'm doing."
"Aye. He's just so afraid for you. Jack says he's never seen Alex so agitated as now. Perhaps when all this confusion with Deirdre is finally over he'll come around. Don't despair, we'll work on him together. There's no doubt in my mind he wants you to continue your healing practice. And if I know these MacKinnons, they will draw this chapter to a close today."
"But you know, we both need to concentrate on getting the lads to help us with the hut, the larger one over on the east side of the property. That's the one Uncle Andrew has decided to make home for himself and his lady friend."
"Really? Have you ever seen an old gentleman so excited? You'd think he's a young lad again. You've got to respect that he's living life to the fullest. Maybe we should all try to do the same."
Caitlin was looking forward to seeing the old bard again and they all were anxious to lay their eyes on his new woman. That would be three women now at this sheep farm. For just a second, she wondered what Jack was thinking about another change at the lodge. He did so dislike change.
"I wonder what Mam would say if she could see us all now?" Caitlin looked around the room.
The two women dissolved into laughter and looked at the plans once again.
Just before the sun had totally left the sky, Caitlin draped her wrap around her shoulders and walked to the top of the moor. The circle of stones had called yesterday at Jamie's funeral, but that was an inappropriate time. But now, when everyone else was occupied with their own tasks, she decided to answer this beckoning call.
She looked around the burial plot and after a small prayer, entered the henge. The warm feeling descended upon her immediately and she relished it. Sanctuary . . . safety . . . peace. The golden glow enveloped her and then, just as she was about to leave the place, she heard the sound again, the same sound. A child. Yes, now she was sure . . . a child crying. And then there was total silence, and the glow was gone.
She walked away with a new determination. There was something she would do before she came here again. She understood it was important, but didn't understand why. She returned to the lodge still hearing that small little voice, crying out to her.
~ * ~
AS IT GOT LATER AND later, Caitlin's nerves were getting shorter and shorter. Why hadn't Alex come home yet? Jack had returned an hour ago, just as the sun was setting.
"Why isn't he back yet, Jack? Were you not together?"
"Nae, we went in different directions and agreed to meet here this evening. We had thought to turn Deirdre over to the constable if we found her. Then we were to come here. Don't worry so, give him a little more time. If he's not here shortly Ian and I will go looking for him. Where is Ian, anyway?"
"I thought he went with you two." Millie had watched the lad leave shortly after Jack and Alex. She just assumed he would be catching up with them.
"Nae. He didn't go with us. Maybe he's upstairs in his lair. He spends more time there or in the library than anywhere else. I'll go check."
A minute later Jack returned, shaking his head.
"He's not here. That lad just tears off anymore without telling anyone where he's going. At his age I wouldn't even dream of not telling Mam where I was going. She would have strung me up by my ears if I had."
"Aye, Jack. I just know you were an absolute angel at that age." Millie smiled at him and went on about her cooking.
"I'll wait one more hour. If Alex and Ian aren't here by then, Da and I will go out and look for them."
Caitlin paced the room. This life in the Highlands certainly was proving to be more exciting than her previous one. But no matter what happened, she'd take this life any day over that one. Alex MacKinnon made her heart sing and she'd stay with him.
When the hour passed with still no sign of Alex or Ian, Jack and Da left to search for them. Shortly after the two men left, Caitlin felt her scalp burning — sizzling, in fact.
Alex is in trouble! She knew it.
Without thinking, she took flight out the door and was on Soldier's back before she thought about any consequences. But this time she remembered to take Willie with her. She didn't know which way Jack and Daniel had gone, but she knew Willie would have a better idea of which path to take than anyone else.
"Willie, come boy. Let's find Alex."
The wolf was halfway down the path before her steed could even head in the right direction. With her skirt catching in the wind, she wished she had thought to put Ian's short trousers and shirt on. Riding in that outfit was a lot more logical than fighting these skirts that kept billowing about every second. When she reached the edge of the woods, she pulled on the reins and came to a stop. She closed her eyes, cleared her mind, found her center, and sent out a call to Uncle Wabi.
"Hear me, Wabi. I need you. Hear me."
She wasn't sure her newly found powers would assert themselves and the wizard would hear her, but she had to try to reach him. Then she dashed off again, hoping Willie knew where he was headed.
Willie traveled so fast he outran Soldier. The great wolf kept returning to horse and rider making sure they were following him. As they got closer, Caitlin knew where they were headed. The cave. She dismounted and looked around, then walked to the entrance, still hidden behind the tall bushes. Just before she entered, she felt a quivery vibration in the air — a feeling she couldn't quite understand — a presence.
What? What is it?
She closed her eyes as she had learned early on that she could often "see" better with her eyes closed. Then a warmth that could only come from one place enveloped her.
Wabi. You're here. Thanks be to the Creator.
She opened her eyes and there stood her dear old uncle, smiling as always. She embraced him and he stared at her strangely.
Oh! A vibration I've never felt from her before . . . but of course!
"Yes, dear girl. I do believe I’m just in time. Now, tell me what's going on. We need to proceed with caution. I don't know what's here, but according to Ian, it is evil indeed.”
"Ian? You've seen Ian?"
"No, I haven't seen him. But he's been in touch. He's advancing in his powers so quickly, Caitlin. I need to guide him before he gets into trouble. He has powers he's not even aware of yet. But that's for another day."
While walking through the woods, Wabi had determined for himself that Ian was right. There was some dark power somewhere close by.
"We've got to find Alex, Wabi. He's missing."
"Right. We will, my girl, we will."
As she stood at the entrance to the cave, Caitlin knew Alex was there — his fresh, evergreen scent lingered and her heart skipped a beat. She wanted to rush in, but Wabi held her.
"Wait, Caitlin. Let's use all our senses before we charge in."
Walking slowly, listening, smelling and employing all their senses, the two called ones moved forward. Even before they got through the entrance, Wabi and Caitlin felt the darkness, and Willie stood erect, his great head lifting to the air. His deep growl sent out a resonating sound and vibration that could be heard and felt throughout the cave. Wabi had not expected to sense such malevolence. Who had this much power? The old wizard would be called on to use every ounce of his power and, most likely, Caitlin would have to use hers, too.
This foe is very powerful and will require my focused attention.
"Caitlin, wait here and keep close to Willie. I must place a layer of protection just outside this entrance. We need to put a strong barrier between the opening and the exterior. Hopefully we can keep the evil contained within the cave. I'll place the barrier and then we'll proceed."
The great wolf was agitated, trying to follow Caitlin's command to stay. Finally he had no choice but to follow his native instincts. He rushed to the rear of the cave where he found Deirdre. He snarled at the woman, revealing large, sharp teeth itching to make their mark. His growl got louder and louder as he backed the woman into a corner, waiting for a signal from Caitlin to attack.
At the cave entrance Wabi laid down a barrier, but while doing so his keen senses received information that was alarming, and he stood still, allowing himself to process what his senses were telling him.
No. It's not possible. Not possible. The old wizard needed to re-evaluate this situation.
He returned to Caitlin and they hurried farther into the cave, where they came upon Deirdre stumbling around the room crying, uttering unintelligible words and making no sense. She seemed unaware that Willie was in attack mode and she was his intended victim. Alex was lying on the floor, draped with a blanket.
Caitlin cried out and fell to her knees next to the Highlander.
"I'm keeping him warm. He's tired, ye ken?" Deirdre said. The woman was so addled she still paid no attention to the wolf who so wanted to be released on her.
~ * ~
BEFORE CAITLIN AND Wabi arrived, Nezzie had disappeared out the front of the cave, completed her preparations and had now returned. Her plan was working perfectly and she'd finally give that old wizard his due. Now that it was dark, she could move about more quickly. But the instant she got close to the cave, she gasped.
No. It can't be. I sense a great amount of power, which means he's near already. I feel him. But even he doesn't have that much power. But who does? Who else has that kind of power?
Nezzie hadn't counted on battling more than Wabi. She knew her dark power was very strong, but now she realized the old wizard was not alone. She darted into the forest and made her way far into the woods, knowing she must enter the cave from the other end, from the door she usually used — the small one at the old kirk.
~ * ~
TIME SEEMED TO STAND still and it took Nezzie a while to get to the small opening. Finally, she entered the cave from the kirk and made her way through the winding tunnel. Even though Caitlin and Willie were far at the other end of the cave, Willie was aware of Nezzie's presence before she even got close to them.
Should he stay locked on Deirdre? Should he attack the latest threat whose presence he sensed? Deirdre was easy to deal with. But this latest enemy, this one needed his attention, now. She positively reeked of evil. He ran farther into the cave and when Nezzie appeared Willie was ready for her. He leapt into the air, his fangs exposed, reaching for her throat.
Nezerra was ready for him too, however, and as she flicked her hands a handful of black dust filled the air around him. He fell to the floor, unable to move. He was aware, but paralyzed. He could only watch as Nezzie crept up behind his master, who was trying to lift Alex's head. The great protector saw Caitlin was about to be prey for the old witch, but was helpless to change the situation.
Nezerra slithered up behind Caitlin. This is the moment I can get her. She's distracted. I can get her before the wizard gets here. She placed her hands on Caitlin's temples, squeezing tightly.
Caitlin immediately recognized the woman by her scent. "Nezzie?" She felt the blackness as it flowed through Nezzie's hands. "No. I'll not let you ... no . . ." Caitlin slowly slid to the floor, reaching for Alex.
Nezzie smiled, pleased to see her long ago laid scheme was working. "I need you, my girl. You're the key to my plan. You belong to me now, and you'll only awaken when I want you to."
Suddenly Nezzie's skin began to crawl.
He's here in the cave. I feel him.
She hadn't expected him to be here so quickly. She thought briefly about pulling Caitlin's body, trying to hide it before the old shaman saw it. But she frowned at this idea, realizing he would feel her presence anyway.
She closed her eyes and for the briefest of moments, she remembered with clarity the time they had shared. He was so attentive to her needs and she adored him. He was handsome and talented, and she young and beautiful. She doted on him, caring for him in a most loving way. During this time she also used her healing skills and cared for others in their area. But somewhere along the way she began to resent his spending time with others, primarily two young girls to whom he was passing on the art of making pottery. Ultimately, she caused such a scene and became so possessive of him that he banned her from his cave and she was left alone.
Finally, later on, she had tried to destroy another one of his young trainees, a young lass named Ci-Cero. This young girl was even more special to him than all his other trainees had been. She had been Caitlin's grandmother, which was why Nezerra found such pleasure in her current plan—to harm Ci-Cero’s granddaughter would be such sweet revenge.
When Wabi discovered Nezerra was responsible for Ci-Cero's close call with death, he had stopped short of killing her and instead placed a curse on her that left her disfigured and hideous. He knew that would be more painful to Nezerra than death. She had so enjoyed being a beautiful woman, and now no one could bear to look upon her.
Nezerra had questioned why things had gone so wrong and regretted her actions more times than she could remember. She'd tried so many times to apologize to him, but he refused to even talk with her. The pain of that rejection and humiliation had grown over the years. As often occurs, rejection, pain and humiliation lead some to seek vengeance, as was the case with Nezerra. There had been many failed attempts, and even her use of dark magick had never brought about her desire to make Wabi pay for the curse he had bestowed on her.
That was eons ago now. She had not forgotten that he was a great wizard, but she had grown in her powers and felt sure she would complete her carefully laid out scenario. But things were not going exactly as she had planned. As her mind swirled about trying to come up with a solution to this latest hitch — him being here already — she could feel doubt beginning to enter her mind. Before that thought could even be completed, she sensed his presence and turned to face him.
"Hello Wabi . . . dearest."
"Nezerra. Still as hideous as I remember you, maybe even more so."
Wabi was stunned to see his old enemy. He knew she should have died a century ago. Still alive due to dark power, no doubt.
She's more desperate than she ever was, and even more dangerous.
Forgiveness for her treatment of Ci-Cero was not a thought he had ever entertained — nor ever would.
He saw Caitlin on the floor and could tell Alex was unconscious. Willie was lying immobile, his eyes riveted on the wizard but unable to move. Deirdre was stumbling around mumbling to herself, uttering incoherently. There was a lot going on, and Wabi wondered if he could take care of it by himself.
"You're responsible for my hideous looks, if you recall, and you can make me beautiful again, also. We both know that. That's all I want, Wabi. I just want you to remove the curse you bestowed on me in the former life we shared. If you will do that — and I know it's an easy task for such a powerful wizard as yourself — then I'll not let your precious niece die. Just as with your curse on me, only I can remove this one from her. And her dear husband? Well, let's just say he may expire any moment now if I don't administer an antidote for his potion — or perhaps I should say— poison. It's your choice, Wabi."
"Your power has grown considerably Nezerra, that's obvious. But it's still dark power and that will never be enough to overcome power bestowed by the Creator — His power. Surely even you know that."
"That's up for debate, Wabi. You're still around, but then so am I. And I have friends, just waiting in the hallway. In fact, I believe I hear them even as we speak."
The hum grew louder and louder and the cave was filled with a deafening screech as thousands of bats winged their way into the tunnel with the never-ending flapping of their wings. Then, as if obeying an unseen or unheard signal, they flocked to Wabi's body and attached themselves at every place where they could plant their tiny feet. The old wizard found himself unable to move for a few seconds.
In that few seconds, however, he heard a scream from Nezerra that had the hair on his neck standing tall.
"NOOOOOOOO! AIEEEEEEEEEEEE! Stop the pain! AIEEEEEEEEEE!"
Nezerra was consumed by more pain than she had ever imagined.
Wabi got his bearings once again and mentally dispatched the bats. They scattered in every direction, anxious to get away from the unbearable fire that came from contact with the old wizard. Their feet were burned to a crisp and, blind though they were, they found their way through the tunnel that led them outside.
Then the old wizard became aware of a seismic shockwave of power flooding the cave. It was unlike any he had ever experienced. It had him staggering to keep his balance. He looked about and there, standing just in the far corner of the cave, he saw Ian, his arms lifted high above his head, his hands crossed at his wrists with palms facing outward. He threw his head back and a hair-raising keening filled the cavern.
The call of the wild and the sign of the cross — the oldest and most powerful tools of all time.
Wabi had heard keening and seen the sign of the cross before, but this was the first time he had ever witnessed a deep, amber light shining from the palm of a wizard. Ian apparently had his own personal talisman. Wabi watched as the amber light glowed and bright green shards of light streamed from the young lad's palms. He should have prepared the lad more, but even he was not expecting this exhibition of power so soon. The boy was not ready yet. But ready or not, he was here and they were in a situation that required intervention from someone who had great power.
Oh, dear heavens. That lad has not had enough training to control his power yet. He could well kill us all in the blink of an eye. May the Creator be with us.
He bowed his head briefly and hoped his prayer was received. It was far too late to prevent the event that was transpiring in front of him. As for Nezerra, her soul had long ago been destroyed by evil and now, after Ian released the amber and green shards, his flood of power entering her body, what was left of her lay in shreds on the cave floor.
Relieved that only Nezerra had been destroyed, Wabi sent up a quick prayer of thanks. The lad is new to this life, but what a powerful shaman he is already. The Creator has chosen well again.
Wabi nodded quickly to Ian and they both headed to Caitlin, still lying unresponsive on the floor. Wabi realized he would have to go to extraordinary measures to bring her from the abyss where she resided at the moment. Nezerra was correct. It was almost impossible to remove a curse another wizard had placed on one.
"Ian, my lad. We'll have to do this together. Come place your hands on Caitlin's temples. I'll call on all the spirits I can, and if you have access to any, please call on them as well."
Ian carefully placed his fingers on Caitlin's temples, next to Wabi's. He could feel her pulse, faint but present. He'd not known Caitlin was here. Nor had he known that Wabi and Nezerra were here. He'd just found the entrance leading from the old kirk, followed his feline friend and traveled the path into the cave. He knew studying with Wabi would strengthen his abilities and he wouldn't always be working in the dark, with some things coming through and others not. But he had certainly played his part in keeping Nezerra's plans from working. He may have come through without Wabi's help, but he was glad his mentor had been here.
Wabi put all his effort into bringing his powers to Caitlin's aide. He summoned all help he could possibly tap into and those spirits that hovered nearby. But in her last moments of consciousness his niece had apparently used her own powers. He could not reach her no matter how hard he tried. She was certainly in trouble, and even with Ian's help she still slept the sleep of the dead.
It was obvious to Wabi he needed even more help, but where would he find it? The wizard knew that in her present state they would have to be extraordinarily careful with her.
"Ian, we need more help. Caitlin has blocked herself off from receiving us. She must have sensed Nezzie's presence before the old hag got to her, or immediately after. She took a wise precaution — blocking. When a called one blocks, it means no other power can enter their mind. It's used as a defensive measure when nothing else can be done. But it also means I can't get through to her either. We must have more help. This deep sleep is a natural reaction following exposure to a spell such as this one. She'll not die, but unless we can reach her, she'll stay in this state of limbo for an eternity. We must hurry now."
Ian looked at the old man. If this old wizard couldn't perform this miracle, what in the world were they going to do? His own powers were growing, but he was fearful now.
Think, Ian. Alex would tell ye to think.
"Wabi, we've got to get them, Caitlin and Alex, to the circle of stones. There's more power there than any place I know of. I've been in the circle and there were so many spirits at work I didn't want to leave it. They'll come to our aide. I know they will."
"My boy, you've got more than just power. You've got a mighty fine brain, too. Yes. The circle of stones."
"And Wabi, we've got to bring Willie, too. He'll die if we don't."
Ian had no doubt Caitlin would never forgive them if they didn't bring Willie within the circle also. He himself was just learning about the importance of a personal animal friend, and in Caitlin's case, a protector as well.
"Hold on, Ian. We may be able to help him here, now."
The wizard got on his knees and carefully took Willie's head into his hands. The wolf looked at him, recognition evident in his face. But he was still paralyzed and couldn't move a muscle.
"Look, Ian. See these black dust particles on his muzzle? That's the remains of a paralytic powder Nezerra used on him. It most often is short-lived. And Willie's a strong wolf. He has special abilities, also. If we call to him, he'll hear us. Come, let's work on him together a second."
They used the same procedure for Willie that they had tried on Caitlin. Ian put his hands on the great protector's head and Wabi lifted his, calling on assistance and chanting in his language. A quick dash of color raced into the cave. Ian was surprised to see it was Henson. The large feline came quickly over to them and proceeded to lay his own paws on Willie's body, next to Ian's.
"Ah, just so. Of course you would feel him. We welcome your touch too, Henson."
Wabi was not surprised to find the feline had his own special touch. He wondered if Ian yet realized this animal had chosen him to be his master. Wabi lowered his forehead and touched it to Willie's. The wolf could only stare — he couldn't even close his eyes. But these two had known each other in another time and place and Wabi resurrected those memories from this four-legged called one.
Within seconds there was a meeting of minds and the protector groaned from a place deep within. The great head was the first body part to respond as he lifted it higher, then shook it back and forth as if awakening from a nap.
"Ah, yes, my friend. It takes more than a little witch's dust to do you in. Come now, we need your help."
The great wolf licked Wabi's hand and was on all fours. Once he got his feet planted and could stand, he threw his great head back and released a howl that set Wabi's ears on edge.
"HOOOOOOWWWWWWWW!"
"I'd say he's back with us, wouldn't you?"
Ian smiled and felt a tremendous amount of relief. He most definitely didn't want Caitlin's wrath turned on him. He'd never witnessed it, but Jack had told him the story of how she "literally melted" Lord Warwick and then "struck down with lightning" the soldier that was after her. Jack probably embellished certainly, thought Ian, but even so, he'd prefer to stay in her good graces.
The wolf's first action was to run over to Deirdre, who was sitting in a stupor in the corner staring out into space. He only stood there a quick moment, then turned away. He sensed she was no longer a threat and he quickly went to Caitlin's side. Then, in a most uncharacteristic manner, he began whimpering.
"Yes, Willie. We know. She's only sleeping, fella. Only sleeping," Wabi whispered.
"Wabi, we only have one horse. We can't get there without help."
Wabi looked at the young shaman, then finally spoke. "I could get us there quickly, but Caitlin is in a very fragile state. For reasons known only to her, she's blocked off all communication. She's protecting herself from more evil I believe. It's the only thing that comes to mind. I'm afraid if I were to take her through a time-weaving trip she might not make it. We've got to get the pony cart for them."
Willie rubbed his nose on the back of Ian's knee.
"Jesus, Wabi. The wolf's got more sense than we have. Yes, Willie. I'll go and get Jack and the cart." Ian ruffed the wolf's neck.
Wabi looked at the young lad again. "That may take a while, for you to ride home. Time is of the essence, lad."
"No, Uncle Wabi. I don't have to ride. I can get there quickly, trust me.” And with that he leaned his head to the right, released a low-pitched guttural sound and the air sizzled as he disappeared.
Powerful. Yes. Powerful.
Wabi smiled, as he knew there were days of excitement ahead for him working with this young lad.
Willie took his place next to Caitlin where he would stay until such time as he felt she was safe again. Henson had disappeared with Ian.
~ * ~
IAN AND HIS FELINE friend appeared on the front porch of the lodge and the boy called out loudly. "Jack, I need you!"
The door opened and Jack stood there staring at the young lad. He and Daniel had returned after several hours searching and had not been able to find Alex and Ian. Their plan now was to get the farm lads, Kenny and Hamish, as well as the MacDonald men, to go out with them. One look at his little brother and he knew there was trouble.
"Holy Mother, where have ye been lad? We've been looking for ye. Where's Alex? What's going on?
"Caitlin and Alex need your help. We've got to get them to the circle of stones, quickly."
"The circle of stones? Why?"
"It's a place where we can get help from others. The spirits that live there can offer assistance we need to bring Caitlin back. As for Alex, I'm hopeful Deirdre's potion was one that wasn't too powerful and maybe its effects will wear off. Then he'll recover on his own. But we should take him too. There may be help for him there also."
"What? Where's Alex? And Caitlin? I thought Caitlin was upstairs sleeping. She never told us she was leaving. Jesus, but that woman can try my nerves." He stomped about the room.
"Aye, but right now we need you to bring the pony cart so we can get the two of them to the circle. Hurry now."
Jack yelled to Ian on his way out the door. "Get Da, Ian. He'll skin us alive if we don't take him with us."
Ian flew up the stairs and told his tale to Da. A short version, certainly. "We've got to get there quickly, Da. They're in real trouble."
"Then I think we need to stop jawing and get moving."
Daniel had taught these lads, these men, how to track, shoot, trap, and take care of each other. He was still useful and could ride better than all of them. He was in the saddle before Jack had the pony cart hooked to the horse. He strapped his pistol to his belt and had his dirk as well. When time was important, his age took a backseat in his mind.
"We'll be back, Millie. You and Caitlin aren't about to be widows this soon. I give ye my word on that. We'll find them . . . both of them."
Millie had gasped when Ian told her their predicament. "Oh, Ian. Be careful. Deirdre is so unbalanced. She's dangerous."
The trip to the cave took more time than they wanted it to, but a cart and horse can only move so fast. Ian was glad Jack hadn't asked him any questions about how he had gotten to the lodge. Obviously a family meeting would need to be held soon, and maybe Uncle Wabi could explain a few situations better than Ian could. Right now, however, they needed to take care of Alex and Caitlin.