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Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two - Chapter Twenty-Two

Here is the next chapter of Book Five in the Drachma series - it is Chapter Twenty-Two. Be prepared, for this is one chapter that carries some weight.

 Chapter Twenty-Two

 

 

 

The tiny mountain shack, set back from the muddy road, would provide none of the comforts to which Marilyn had lately become accustomed, yet it was as inviting as anything she had come to expect. Gratefully, she got off her horse and headed inside, following Fausto, who was followed by several guardsmen. The prisoners, with the exception of Count Gregorio, were herded into an enclosure to the side of the little hut, originally designed to keep animals penned up.

 

Once inside, Fausto busied himself with preparing a meal from the provisions in the back room. He turned during his activities toward Marilyn and said, “M’lady, ye can be certain that I shall provide ye with explanation of all that ye’ve seen and heard today.”

 

“That would be a good thing, Fausto. I do feel quite confused, but right now, I’m just tired, hungry, thirsty… and I’ve got to pee.”

 

Fausto chuckled, and then he said, “of course, m’lady. Ye can go around t’ the side.” He indicated with his arm. “And I’ll have ye somethin’ t’ eat and drink. And then I shall sit down wi’ ye and answer yer questions.”

 

Marilyn stepped out and turned to the side of the building, away from the prisoners, and headed into the woods. When she was done, she was startled by a soft noise behind her. She turned quickly, and was surprised by the ethereal form of Maggie, who was leading another young girl by the hand. There was a slight bluish glow to her face and features. Her red hair blew radiantly in the gentle evening breeze. Behind her was a young girl 

who appeared to be roughly ten years of age, and who peered shyly from behind Maggie.

 

“Lady Marilyn,” said Maggie, her face appearing both youthful and wise beyond years, “I am called Maggie, and I come with greetings from Falma. This is Lisa. And I bring her to you for discovery and for safekeeping.” Then, turning toward the lass, she said, “Now, Lisa, this is the lady, Marilyn. She will keep you safe. You may go with her. She will not harm you – of that you may be certain.” And saying that, she turned away, and walked back into the depths of the forest, leaving behind her the faint scent of trees and running water.

 

Marilyn, herself a bit shocked once more, reached out her hand and said to Lisa, “come, child, let’s go inside. There you can tell us of your adventure, as well as getting something to eat and drink.”

 

Lisa did not say a word, but followed Marilyn into the hut, clinging to her hand like a life-line. As they came inside the hut, they were met by Fausto. Lisa, having never seen anyone so huge, cowered behind Marilyn.

 

“Oh, Lisa, don’t be afraid. This gentle giant of a man will not hurt you. His name is Fausto, and he’s here to protect folks like me and you.”

 

But Lisa, after seeing his bulk, and his sword, cowered even more behind Marilyn.

 

“Come now, Lassie, ye’ve got nothin’ t’ fear from me,” Fausto said, his voice booming through the small hut. This, unfortunately, had the opposite effect on young Lisa. Marilyn turned and held the girl, who was trembling with fear.

 

Fausto was going to ask where the girl came from, but when he saw Marilyn’s face, he thought better of it, and quietly went back to the table, and prepared a plate of cheese, dried meats and fruit, signaled to one of his men, and had him deliver it to Marilyn. She took the plate, wordlessly, and offered it to Lisa.

 

Lisa took the plate with one hand, and in a voice barely above a whisper said, “this… this food is…fer me?”

 

“Of course, it’s for you,” answered Marilyn. “Come, sit down here with me and enjoy it.”

 

“Who this girl?” asked Count Gregorio, rather suddenly.

 

“I know not, Count,” answered Fausto, “but she is now one of us. She shall be protected with my life.”

 

So, over the next half hour, while Lisa sat in Marilyn’s lap, and ate her meal, the girl gradually relaxed, to the point that Marilyn felt it appropriate to begin asking her questions. Marilyn was perplexed by this little waif, and just what she was supposed to do with and for her.

 

Gradually they found out that her mother was in Shepperton and worked in a house owned by someone called LeGace, whom she thought of as a bad man, and who stole her away from her mother. Also, they had taken a nice man, named Melchior, an “all-chemist” but who could not do magic. She told of how she and Melchior were held in an underground place, and then they were moved to a ship. And that was where Maggie 

came, and rescued her, but how she was not able to say, just that the “blue light” had something to do with it. And Melchior was still back in the ship as far as Lisa knew.

 

“The blue light, eh?” Marilyn recalled the faint blue light of Maggie’s face, and how this young girl seemed to understand and to be able to walk easily between the two worlds which had come to envelop Marilyn, Bob and Charlie. I’ll have to ask Tom the next time I see him. See if he understands it as well.

 

“Tell me, Lisa, do you know what you’re supposed to do, and why you were chosen?” asked Marilyn. “Did Maggie tell you anything at all?”

 

“She simply told me - she was taking me to someone safe, someone who would know how to get me back to me mum.”

 

“And what is your mother’s name, Lisa?”

 

“Me Mum’s name be Sylvie.”

 

“And your father?”

 

“Me father – him I know not. I’ve not met ‘im.”

 

“Hmm, quite strange, indeed. Fausto, do you know anyone named Sylvie, who might be this young girl’s mother?”

 

“Nay, m’lady I know her not. It seems we shall have to ask Tom the next time we see him if he knows.”

 

“My thoughts, precisely,” said Marilyn. Then, as Lisa gradually warmed up to Fausto, Marilyn got to thinking about her circumstances. How is it that I have been chosen for this? It seems that I, a stranger, have been pegged as someone to go to. But as with Bob, I just got a glance as he seemed to be working toward something big. How am I supposed to do anything or make sense of any of this? It’s like I’m asked to play, but to figure out the rules of the game as I go along. And just whose game is it? Oh, Falma, is it yours, or are you just playing the game along with me? And what about this little girl and her mother – how does she fit into the scheme?

 

“Tell me, Fausto, are you as confused by all the goings on here as I am?”

 

“Confused, m’lady? Nay, that I am not. I am simply tasked wi’ keepin’ ye safe, and to take ye back, along wi’ these prisoners, to Shepperton Castle.

 

“Shepperton? Not Castle Kearney?”

 

“Nay, m’lady, fer it seems as though Tom has decided that it be Shepperton where ye’re needed the most.”

 

“Needed, eh? Now I’ve been allowed to see Bob twice, from a distance, and I haven’t been able to interact with him. Now don’t you think that’s a bit strange?”

 

“I’m not much fer thinkin’, m’lady. I simply do what I must. An’ I leave the thinkin’ to people like ye and Tom.”

 

“Well, then, the next time we meet, I’ll definitely ask him.”

 

Fausto nodded. In the guarded corner, Gregorio sat and absorbed all that had happened to him in the past day.

 

“Lady Marilyn,” Lisa spoke up suddenly, “do ye but suppose that me mum bein’ as she’s in Shepperton, might have somethin’ to do wi’ yer bein’ needed there?”

 

“Now, I hadn’t thought of that! From the lips of babes, eh, Fausto?”

 

“Indeed, m’lady.”

 

Marilyn just hugged Lisa tighter, and asked, “Just how far is it to Shepperton?”

 

“Well, wi’ the prisoners walking, it should take us a day and a half, I’d say.”

 

“Then you’ll ride with me, Lisa, if that’s all right with you.”

 

“Oh, aye, lady Marilyn, ‘twould be nice.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aboard the ship, the mood was grim. Antoine LeGace paced about and asked his guard again, “just what did you see, and why did you not prevent this from happening?”

 

“I did not see anythin’ but the two o’ them come out o’ the brig, and then leap o’er the side, there.” He pointed with his hand. “An’ then I ran o’er to the spot, an’ lookin’ down I didna’ see them, but I could see a blue light in the water, headed outward, toward the open sea. An’ so I got Marik t’ get me a boat, an’ then we went down t’ the water, and we looked about, an neither one o’ us saw anythin’ at all.”

 

“And just where were you when they came out of the brig? And had you checked the lock?”

 

“I was standin’ right o’er there. And aye, I had checked the lock afore, an’ also upon my return, an’ the lock was fast. No one coulda’ come out wi’ out makin’ a sound, but they did, the two of ‘em. Also, I talked wi’ the other prisoner, an’ he had tried the door, an’ he too noted the lock was fast from the inside.”

 

That was enough for LeGace. He signaled to his other guardsman, who came over immediately and with the help of two more, quietly tied up the unfortunate guard. Then, with graceless certainty, he said to the now cowering guard, “Did I not make it plain to you the penalty for losing one of my prisoners?”

 

“Aye, ye did, sire…”

 

“Then tell your last wishes to Peter, here, for I care not.” And then her turned and walked toward his own room and signaled to Peter to take him away and be done with it.

 

After that, he sat in his room, with Leonardo as the only other one in the room, and uncharacteristically, began discussing his plans.

 

“Now, with one fewer prisoner, we shall have to be a bit more careful. I know not if this one even escaped, but even if she did, what could she tell them? Nothing too useful it would seem.”

 

“But it would seem,” said Leonardo, “that her chances are exceedingly small of having survived at all.”

 

“That would be true, if not for the blue light mentioned by our guard. Remember this, Leonardo – we are not dealing with only what we know, but there are possibilities that you and I know little of, which are known to our enemy. And if we underestimate them, we do so at our peril.”

 

Leonardo’s thoughts immediately took him to Wheezer, and his survival – unlikely but nevertheless apparently real, as he found out that morning while seated at Barncuddy’s.

 

“What is it? Your look says you have seen an apparition.”

 

“Ah, nothing…”

 

“Hmm… well, just remember, there are more things to be aware of than you would suppose. Now, back to business. What do you know of our army’s readiness for conflict? Are we going to be ready in three days’ time, armed and equipped?”

 

“As to their readiness, that appears to be yet an open question. They still number close to a hundred men, all armed, but with only about fifty horses thus far available.”

 

“Ah, well, in that regard, I shall have to talk with Patronis and that snake, Guarneri about that, see if I am able to get any satisfaction from them.”

 

“D’you trust them?”

 

“Nay, I do not, but I do have something over them to get what I need.”

 

“Does it involve King Henry?”

 

“Indeed, it does…”

 

“Then I shall ask no more…”

 

LeGace nodded and smiled subtly. Then he spoke again, but in a conspiratorial tone said, “If you are able, I should like it if you could arrange a chance meeting with our two Scotsmen. Not at Barncuddy’s (that would be too risky), perhaps in Champour somewhere. I should like to find out what they now know, and more, what they suspect.”

 

“For when?”

 

“Perhaps tomorrow evening.”

 

“I shall see what I am able to do in that regard, sire.”

 

“Very well, ‘til tomorrow, then. But, before you go, I should like it if you could determine a couple of things for me. The first is to make certain that our guard has been 

taken care of. And then, if you could query our remaining prisoner, and determine, if you are able what did transpire from his perspective.”

 

“Consider it done, sire.”

 

 

 

Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two, Chapter Twenty-One

Here is the next chapter of the fifth book in my Drachma series, Chapter Twenty-One. In this chapter, we concentrate on Jeanne, and her relation to all that has been going on, with more to come!

Chapter Twenty-One

 

 

 

 

Jeanne woke to the sound of birds, and realizing suddenly that she had overslept, she scurried out of bed, and almost ran over Sylvie, who stood in the doorway with young Falma.

 

“Oh, Sylvie, I’m so sorry! I did not realize the time.”

 

“Mama!” exclaimed Falma, as he extended his little arms. Jeanne scooped him up in a wet embrace.

 

“I see that he has been fed. And for that I thank ye so much, Sylvie.”

 

“Aye, he and I have had breakfast, Madam. An’ yer bread and fruit be awaitin’ ye in the kitchen. One o’ the pages has been by to fetch ye but said that he’d await fer ye to get ready. He said the men would wait o’er yonder, and not to worry none.”

 

As she got dressed, she played with her toddler, and as she played, she contemplated whether she was even the right person for this new task given to her.  However, she understood, as Craycroft explained to her, being short-staffed, and her being his right hand, there was no one else. And so, she agreed to accompany the two Scotsmen, as they found their way through the introductory material at the institute and in Sick Bay. She found it fortunate that Tingley and Mortimer had been there to guide them, since neither her husband nor Robert could be there. And for that period of time at least she was able to keep her thoughts off Melchior’s most uncertain fate. But now was it to be more of the same today?

 

What she could not understand was Craycroft’s admonition that it was she who would be responsible to determine if there were any signs of untrustworthiness in their manner, and to report back if she detected any at all.

 

She glanced in the small mirror and decided that was about as good as it was going to get. She then picked up Falma, and carried him into the kitchen, where she shared her bread and fruit with the youngster. Eventually, she told Sylvie that she was ready. Sylvie went to the back and told the page that her mistress was ready.

 

The young page seemed eager to accompany the great lady to her task this morning. He saw it as an opportunity for him to do more than simply run errands, but to learn some of the ways of the world out there. The two Scotsmen had been just as keen, it seemed to Tingley, to understand the goings on of the people of the castle, as he had been intrigued by their lives back in Scotland. Mealtimes were particularly stimulating, as the two men truly enjoyed their ale, and as the ale took its hold and loosened their tongues, they would wax on about their doings in the “old country.” It seemed to Tingley that some of what the two men described must have been exaggeration but was nonetheless very entertaining.

 

“Come, m’lad, let us be on our way.” Jeanne said cheerfully, as the young page stood at the door to the kitchen.

 

Her attitude this morning startled Tingley, as it seemed she appeared ready and even somewhat enthusiastic about the day’s tasks.

 

“Certainly, M’lady! D’ye need anythin’?”

 

“Nay, Laddie, nothing. But I do want ye to provide our Scottish guests with some lighthearted company for lunch today, as ye did yesterday.”

 

“Indeed?” Tingley realized then that the lady had been, in her own way, extraordinarily vigilant, and not disinterested.

 

As the two of them set out in the cool of the morning, heading across to Barncuddy’s, there was a notable lightness in the steps of his lady, as across the great courtyard they seemed to sail. The noise and clamor of the merchants, getting ready for the day’s doings seemed to spur them on. 

 

As they came up to Barncuddy’s door, Jeanne turned to Tingley and said in his ear, “Now, Lad what I would have ye do, is to pay particular attention to what Master Enoch says, as he has some history with us, and particularly with Councilor Rust.”

 

“Rust? That I didna’ know, M’lady.”

 

“But aye, he was a student with Master Rust at Cambridge…”

 

“And now he would be a student again, but here, with us, eh?”

 

“T’would seem a little peculiar, no?”

 

“Aye that, M’lady…peculiar, indeed!”

 

As they entered the inn, the familiar sounds, smells and warmth of the place put them immediately at ease. They were greeted from across the inn by Clifton, who loudly bade them come over. As they made their way across the rough wood floor, between the benches, to the back of the dining area, Jeanne noticed a solitary man, sitting with his back turned to them. She thought he looked familiar but couldn’t place him. 

 

“Well m’lady, it makes me heart glad that ye’ll be joinin’ us today,” said the bright-faced Clifton. Both he and Enoch stood, and made room for Jeanne and the page. “Now what’ll it be today? D’ye want any o’ this bread or any ale?” Jeanne shook her head and sat down. “Then are ye going to show us more of the fascinatin’ doings on of your institute?”

 

“Oh, aye, that we shall. And we shall also check back with Sick Bay. There are several folks that I need to be seeing there. Frankly, I’m concerned about little Julius and old Allen. Neither of them looked very well yesterday.”

 

Jeanne had gradually been taking over the day-to-day running of Sick Bay, and especially now, in the absence of Master Robert, Judy and Melchior. It seemed to her that every day would bring about new challenges, with which she often felt unprepared to deal. Yet Craycroft’s faith in her abilities was unwavering, and the patients always seemed thankful. Oh, but I am not trained to care for these wounded and unwell persons. Ah, Judy, if only you were here by me!

 

Tingley noticed her changed countenance but said nothing. Then he noticed the arrival of Mortimer. “Ho, Mortimer, o’er here!”

 

Mortimer came over to the table, but he had a look on his face to suggest serious doings were afoot.

 

“What is it?” asked Tingley. “And do na’ be tellin’ me that it’s nothin’. Fer I can see it on yer face…”

 

“Well, if ye must know, it seems that a Master Charles, from the same place as Master Robert, came to the castle, and he brought with him ol’ Wheezer, who had been stabbed an’ burned. And who is now in Sick Bay wi’ the others.”

 

The look on Jeanne’s face was of shock as well as concern. “Wheezer, is that the same urchin who acted as snitch for our enemies?”

 

“Aye, the same! But m’lady, he’ll be doin’ nothin’ o’ the sort fer the future, if he survives.”

 

“Any idea who did this to him?”

 

“Nay, m’lady, none.”

 

“Well, then, it would seem that there be layers of mystery yet to be uncovered… But what can ye tell me of this Master Charles? Is he someone known to Master Robert or to Lady Judy? And why did he come here at this time?”

 

As she was asking these questions, Jeanne could see in her peripheral vision that the man who sat in the corner seemed to take a sudden interest in their conversation, but when she looked directly in his direction, he turned quickly away, then immediately exited.

 

“M’lady, I know not how to answer yer queries,” said Mortimer, “but what I can tell ye is that Craycroft would like ye to meet the man and requests yer presence ere noon today. There ye shall meet Master Charles, and ye may ask him whate’er ye’d like.”

 

“I would say, then, comrades, that we shall have much to do, and that we should not tarry. Let us go to Sick bay, and see what we have there, and then perhaps later, Mortimer and Tingley, you can take our gentlemen to the institute, while I get the opportunity to meet this new person, and to discuss matters with Craycroft.” As she said this, she also thought, and maybe I can find out a little more about my own Melchior!

 

As the group of five made its way out, Jeanne turned to Barncuddy, and took him aside. In a conspiratorial tone she asked, “Can ye tell me, who was that man, sitting o’er yonder? Have ye seen him before?”

 

“His name I know not, and he’s ne’er been in here, and that I would know. But what I can tell ye is that he has been seen in the company o’ that scoundrel, LeGace. That much I know from me sources in the kitchen.”

 

“Well, then, I must speak with your sources. If you could arrange for me to talk wi’ them later today, I would be grateful, as would m’lord, Craycroft.”

 

“Aye, m’lady. If ye could be here at three bells today, I shall have ye meet wi’ Gracie, who should be back wi’ me onions an’ turnips by then.”

 

“Thank you, my good man. I shall be here then as well.” And she left him with a hug and a radiant smile, as she hurried to catch up with the others, who were just going out the door, heading toward Sick Bay. 

 

As they made their way across the great courtyard, Jeanne could not help but think that her day was becoming so much more complicated than she could have expected. 

 

 

 

 

“Well now, Jeanne, ‘twould appear that you have had quite a morning. Am I correct?” Craycroft’s eyes twinkled slightly as he looked across the little table. He took his glass of wine, raised it to her, and this time said, with his voice softened with concern, “Why don’t you tell me about your day, and then I shall try to answer your queries.”

 

“Oh, ye do know me, Craycroft! Of course, I shall tell ye of all that I found this morning, and of what significance it all seems to carry.”

 

Craycroft’s thoughts suddenly took him back four years, when he decided to make Jeanne his special assistant. All of what was wrapped up in those moments, and what significance they would have for the future of the island and its people was too much to consider.  And there she was, sitting in the same chair, in the same room, but she was then a broken woman, having lost her long-time friend and employer.  And Craycroft was little better, having lost the true love of his life, but having been granted rule of the island by the earl. He had reached out his hand toward her and told her of his unrequited love for her mistress, as well as his new responsibilities, his sense of unworthiness. Still, he could not evade this request by his liege lord. And so, in that moment, he had asked her to be his assistant. Her demeanor had suddenly changed, and she had looked back at him with steely resolve, which was both frightening and somehow reassuring. It was that same visage she had again as she began to tell him of her morning.

 

She told him of her encounter at Barncuddy’s, with the information she had gotten about their new arrival, and about poor Wheezer. She mentioned that little Wheezer seemed to be rallying somewhat under the care he was getting at Sick Bay but was unable to say much about his injury other than to say it was definitely LeGace involved. And then she mentioned that stranger at Barncuddy’s whom she found out had been seen with LeGace as well, but who then disappeared.

 

Craycroft thought about all of this, and then said that he would need more guardsmen at Sick Bay.

“I was thinking the same thing,” said Jeanne. “But what about this Master Charles? May I meet him, and what do you know about him?”

 

“But, of course, you may see him, in fact I was expecting you two would meet. He has gone to Sick Bay – he was quite worried about Wheezer, as he was the one who saved the young lad from the burning building.”

 

“He is at Sick Bay now? Why then, shall I go there?”

 

“Nay, there is no need, for he will be coming back here anon. Aaron is with him now, as is Tom, and Derrymoor also. They know of the importance of your meeting him.”

 

“Importance? Whatever do you mean, m’lord?”

 

“Do you not think that I, and the rest of those ruling this Isle, think your opinions do not matter? If you recall, it was I who chose you from among the many here to be my special assistant. And it was not a choice that I have ever regretted. Nay, you have been a most trusted aide to me. E’en now, this day you do bring your insight, for which I remain grateful.”

 

“You do honor me, m’lord. But it is just that circumstances being what they be could be overwhelming to me. I do admit that without Melchior at my side, it does cloud my perceptions. Now, have you heard any news of Melchior, for his absence continues to grieve me?”

 

“Nay, my dear, I have heard nothing new…”

 

Jeanne swallowed hard, and put her face in her hands, and for a brief moment there was silence in the room. As the clock outside was striking ten bells, there was a knock at the door.

 

“Come in! The door is not barred,” said Craycroft.

 

To Jeanne’s surprise, in walked a sizable group of men, led by Aaron, and included the earl of Derrymoor, Tom, Rust, Kerlin, and Cayman. And in their midst was the obvious stranger, dressed in rumpled gray clothes, with a coat that looked too large for his small frame. Craycroft was immediately up and came over to the group. He introduced Jeanne to Charlie Stephens.

 

“It’s nice to meet you, Jeanne. And yes, I’ve heard about you, and … it’s all good!”

 

“But, alas! I have heard nothing of thee, except that ye come from the same place as Master Robert and the lady, Judy, no?” Jeanne went on, as she looked toward Craycroft. “If we could all move to the adjacent room where we might all sit down at the table. Then we could all get acquainted properly.”

 

Charlie couldn’t help but stare at this woman, subdued, beautiful, and possessing a strength he had not found in anyone since Marilyn.

 

“That would seem most appropriate,” said Craycroft. Then, as the group moved toward the meeting room, he turned toward Charlie, and said in a whisper, “did I not warn ye about this one?”

 

“Indeed, you did.”

 

“Master Tom,” it was one of the pages, coming up the hallway. “Yer horses be ready, and there be men awaitin’ ye at the stables.”

 

“Very well, Stewart.” He turned toward Charlie and said, “Master Charles, are ye ready for your next journey?”

 

“Well, I guess so.” Charlie turned once more toward Jeanne, “I’m sorry, Lady Jeanne, but it seems I’m needed elsewhere on your island, and it looks as though we’ve gone through much of the morning already. Do take care of Wheezer for me. It would seem that he has important information, and he does appear to be rallying this morning.”

 

“Of course, Master Charles. We shall meet again…of that I am quite certain.” She held out her hand, but Charlie did not know what to do with her hand, if he was supposed to shake it or kiss it. So, he just reached out and gently shook it, eying Tom, who gave him no direction.

 

“All right, then, Tom, you lead the way.”

 

Jeanne watched them quietly, as she turned to Craycroft and said in a whisper, “Was this your doing? As a way of keeping me guessing in the dark?”

 

“Nay, Jeanne. It was but another move on the great chessboard. It would be as if the master mover would have us go from our opening to the center game.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two, Chapter Twenty

Here is Chapter Twenty of my book five in the Drachma series. In this chapter we're back at Barncuddy's Ale House, with its magic and its potent ale.

Chapter Twenty

 

 

 

As they stepped into Barncuddy’s, the atmosphere of the inn felt to Charlie like a comforting quilt. His senses were instantly put at ease. As they sat and talked the warmth and conviviality of the inn, and the ale, the bread, and the conversation all made his heartache so much more bearable.

 

“You know,” he said, turning to the others, “this reminds me so much of a place back home. Not so much in its appearance, but in its atmosphere. And this beer! Wow, I mean it could be from the same stock. I got to tell you, that beer I only had a couple of times. It was named Carlisle’s Brew, and it was this Irish Pub, called The Three Knights Inn…”

 

“Would you then be surprised,” Craycroft broke in, “to know that this establishment was once called the Three Knights Inn? Ho, Master Barncuddy! Would you do us the pleasure to come over?”

 

The portly innkeeper sauntered over, as Craycroft rose. “Master Barncuddy, if I were to tell you that our good friend, Master Charles has come from the same place as Master Robert, and he has some news to share… Master Charles, if you could tell Master Barncuddy what you just told us…”

 

Fed by the warmth of the Inn and its company, Charlie began telling his tale of taking Lonnie to the Three Knights Inn, and how he had ordered the Carlisle’s Brew, and how it had so transported his guest, and how that had led to their meeting with the earl of Shepperton, and how that then led to his being present at Janie’s side as she died, and ultimately his own departure with Falma. Barncuddy stood by awed at what this man was telling him. It was altogether too much to absorb.

 

Then, at the prodding of his companions, Charlie spoke of what he found on the isle, and how that led him to where he was now. His drawing of Shepperton Castle next made its rounds again, and eventually into the hands of Barncuddy.

 

“Ah, but ye’ll have to let me sit down here,” said the innkeeper, “fer I’ve ne’er seen anything like this drawing. An’ ye say it was made by a lady who had ne’er seen Shepperton, yet somehow she knew that ye’d be acomin’ here. Well, I see all this talkin’ of magic and mysteries beyond me ken, but I do say that it calls fer some o’ me best…Ho, Marcy! Could ye bring a round o’ me good stuff to this table? Fer it’s truly needed is it not?”

 

A few minutes later, from the kitchen came young Marcy, bearing a load of pewter jugs filled with a bubbly brown liquid. She set down her load, and then curtsied, and quickly retreated to the kitchen. Charlie looked down at his jug and inhaled the aroma. He then closed his eyes, and for a fleeting moment caught a glimpse of a group of friends sitting at a table, not unlike the one where he now sat, and the group included the earl of Shepperton, Carol, Chris Lewinsky, Amanda, and Lonnie! As the image faded, he sensed a deep dread, which made his heart ache, but he could not name it.

 

“What is it, Master Charles?” asked Derrymoor. “Your appearance of a sudden suggests the drink is not worthy.”

 

“Oh, Sir Derrymoor, this drink is heavenly, but its aroma very briefly transported me to another place (back home I believe), and there sat a group of people I knew, and whose aura suggested… I don’t know… that there was malevolence of some kind, something evil among the gathered folk.”

 

“That would indeed be worrisome,” said Tom. “Hmm, it does make me wonder – nay, that could not be true. I shall have to consult with Drachma about the matter.  But for now, enjoy your Carlisle’s Brew!”

 

“I do know what we need here,” said Barncuddy. “Music! And I shall see to it, me friends. Ho, there, young Mortimer, could ye but see if our good minstrel be about? Let him know I’ve a special gathering fer him.” And with that, Barncuddy got up, and plodded back toward the kitchen.

 

“Tell me, Charles,” Craycroft said, “about the earl of Shepperton. You now say that he is alive and appears well. That would indeed be good news to Master Robert, for his decision to stay here among us was greatly dependent upon the earl’s state of health. And it would, I am quite certain, be most excellent news to him. Would that you could see him, good sir.”

 

“Where is this Master Robert? For I was told that I do need to see his woman, someone named Judy, and I was given some medication for her, which apparently she needs.”

 

“Indeed,” said Tom quizzically, “what would that be for?”

 

“That I don’t know. But what I do know is that she’s pregnant, and likely to go into labor, and she would be needing this injectable medicine, which I was given by Lonnie back home. But hell, I’m no doctor, and I don’t really know anything about pregnancy, and mothers, and their babies, and their needs.”

 

“And yet you say,” answered Tom, “and very accurately I might add, that Lady Judy is indeed pregnant, soon to deliver, and with one of our finest midwives in attendance. She is, at this moment on the interior of the island, at a place called Castle Kearney.  And Master Robert is also on the interior of the island, but at another place. It would seem that you and I need to go to Castle Kearney then, for you have, in your possession something which has been deemed necessary for the Lady Judy, through the powers that be. And so, Master Charles, can you ride?”

 

“You mean on a horse?” asked Charlie. “I believe, if my childhood memories serve me correctly, that is one thing I was able to do. But it would have to be a rather tame horse, ‘cause that’s all I’ve ridden on.”

 

“And I shall send two of my men with ye,” added Derrymoor. “For the information you bring is most valuable to me as well.”

 

“Very well, then, I shall see to it that you shall be set up with a mare who is easy to ride, and I believe that we should leave first thing in the morning.”

 

“And I agree,” said Derrymoor.

 

“If you all say so,” said Charlie, all the while thinking of what his newest adventure had already opened in front of him. All the strange and unexpected sights, sounds, smells he had encountered, as well as the people in this place of intense need and magic. 

 

As the evening wore on, with Charlie’s mind wandering through his situation, and all the implications of his current state, and which definitely included the effects of the brown ale, he began to get drowsy, and just as he was about to doze off, there came a raucous clattering from the doorway. As they all turned to the entryway, Barncuddy hurried over, and helped hold the door for the persons entering.

 

“Me good minstrel! Ye do come – I take that ye’ve got ye a couple o’ yer comrades wi’ ye.”

 

“I tell ye, this had better be somethin’ of import. Ye’re so right, fer I was just acomin’ over to have a pint, when I was met by these two lads. One o’ them said he came from Barncuddy, and his message was that Barncuddy needed my services, as there was yet another person from Master Robert’s place, and he felt it right that I should play fer the gatherin’. And then this other lad comes along and asks Mortimer if he knows the whereabouts o’ Tom. And Mortimer tells him that young Tom is with Craycroft, the earl o’ Derrymoor, and the man from Robert’s place. And with Craycroft, Derrymoor, Tom and this new stranger, I agreed that it would be fittin’ indeed to welcome the stranger with some music.

 

“But then this other lad, name o’ Darnell, tells me that he’s got a message of some import from Drachma to give to Tom. Says it came by the pigeons, and arrived by way o’ Fancyneck Flyer himself, so Drachma meant it to be hand-delivered to Tom right away. And so, I told him to come along, fer that be where we were all aheadin’.”

 

“Well, I’ll be, Willie,” said Barncuddy, “and ye two lads, why don’t ye all come on to the table toward the back. I’ll introduce ye to the man, name o’ Charles. And while ye’re gettin’ acquainted I’ll see to it that we bring ye some o’ our finest fer yer drinkin’ pleasure.”

 

And he took them toward the table in the back of the inn, where he introduced Charlie to Willie. Then Willie took up his Clarsach, and began tuning its strings, as Darnell took his pigeon message to Tom. Meanwhile, Barncuddy signaled to Marcy to bring Willie something to drink.

 

Tom studied the small cylinder briefly, noting that it was from Drachma, and the cylinder was one kept for the most important messages. He frowned as he opened the cylinder, then taking out a small, slender knife, he took out its message. He read it silently, and he handed it to Craycroft without a word. Craycroft’s visage darkened as he read the brief note. His eye closed briefly, and he then handed it to Charlie, and spoke.

 

“Here, Master Charles, I assume that you are able to read. I would appreciate your thoughts on this matter.”

 

Charlie swallowed some of the Carlisle’s Brew, as he took the note from Craycroft. Written on the small scar of paper were the words, written plainly, with a leftward slant.

 

 

                                 To Tom

                  Be aware! It would appear that Master LeGace

                  now shares our knowledge of the folding of time,

                  and he means to use that knowledge against us.

                  Remember the Mortuis Concentis, as it may become

                  essential in the near future.

                  I am not long for this world – it shall be Ye above all.

                               Drachma

 

Charlie studied the small note and noticed that the paper was identical to other messages he had seen from Drachma. But as to what this message was trying to convey, he was clueless. However, his sense was that underlying the message was an intense feeling of foreboding, with a definite warning for him as well as Tom, which he understood only in part.

 

“Well, Master Charles, what make you of this message? I do know that you are rather familiar with its sender, is that not true?”

 

“Why yes, Master Craycroft, I am. Even though I have not met this Drachma fellow in person, I am at least familiar with some of his methods. It is definitely from him - I even recognize his writing. But as to what he is actually warning Tom about, I have no knowledge, except that it does appear to carry a note of foreboding and has something directly to do with how and why I came here. And you know what? I keep thinking that if Falma were here, he’d be able to help us.”

 

“Remarkably perceptive, no?” Craycroft’s words were directed toward Tom.

 

“Indeed, and I too would value Falma’s astute wisdom.” Then Tom turned toward Charlie, “if it all comes about, I shall see that you get to Castle Kearney safely, then I must seek out Drachma. As this note indicates, it might be the very last time he would be available to me.”

 

“In truth,” said Craycoft, “There be forces at work, only some of which we can name, others, which are more fearsome yet, which I do see working against us, but only as shadows among the trees. I believe that, between the earl and me, we would be able to take care of those we can see clearly, but I shall have to rely upon you to enter into said realm of shadows on our behalf…”

 

Their discourse fell silent, as Willie began playing a tune, which Charlie recognized immediately, but could not name. All sat back on their chairs, as the minstrel took the tune, and wove it through variations, each more complex than the last. Charlie soon found his somnolence even more difficult to resist, and he settled back and drifted off to places unknown and unseen. He was in the forest again, with the sound of running water, and she was there, at the edge of the stream. He approached her. She looked up and smiled.

 

“Charlie, my dear one, now you will become as one who has found true purpose, and whose power will be there when we need it. Go now. Your fate does call. When you see Alexandra, you will truly know.”

 

She took his face in her hands and kissed his cheek.

 

“Master Charles, Master Charles! Come now, we must take ye to your room fer the night.” It was Mortimer gently rousing Charlie from his slumber.

 

“Oh, I’m so sorry, I guess I drifted off to sleep.” He could see Craycroft, Tom, the earl, Willie and the others, but he could still smell Janie. And his cheek burned ever so slightly. “Well, lead the way, young man, and I’ll follow.”

 

He got up, unsteadily, and with Mortimer’s help, headed out of the inn, toward the castle. As they made their way, Mortimer told him that he would be staying in a room of the castle for the night, and that he would need to be ready to ride in the morning. They arrived, and went up the stairs, to a room reserved for royalty, with rich drapes and fine rugs about, and a four-poster bed. Mortimer helped him out of his coat, and his outer clothes. Then before he drifted off again to sleep, Mortimer told him that he would be sleeping outside, and to call if he needed anything at all.

 

Then Charlie slept the sleep of one truly exhausted - dreamless and profound.

 

 

  

Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two, Chapter Nineteen

Beware: this is a complex chapter, with multiple places and happenings, including magic!

 Chapter Nineteen

 

 

 

The ship was anchored far from the shoreline, and so Leonardo had seen to it that a small boat was secured, and it was now being rowed toward the ship with his master on board. The evening was cool, with a slight breeze, but LeGace seemed not to notice. He was quiet and looked sullen. He knew that his note had reached its mark, and now the waiting had begun.

 

As the boat approached the ship, he finally said to Leonardo, “We have to be certain that our forces are to be all in one place, and ready for war. And I do feel that we shall, before too much time has expired, be at war with Craycroft. And perhaps done before word could reach King Henry.”

 

His companion, who had heard all of this before, acknowledged his lord, and said, “It is as you say, but I do not yet know if all the troops are back from the island. It was said that they experienced some serious fighting, which they did not expect, and I know not whether they shall be at strength.”

 

“Well, be certain that they be ready in three days. This may be more serious than anything before.”

 

“Aye, sire, I shall.”

 

They approached the side of the ship, and Leonardo called for a ladder to be thrown down.  The men on the deck quickly complied, and the two men then came up the side of the ship. But before going up himself, Leonardo paid the oarsman, and told him to be back the following evening.

 

Aboard the ship now, LeGace still found it difficult to relax. He turned toward Leonardo again, and said, “If ye need me, I shall be below, midships, in my room. I have some serious matters to ponder. But do bring me reports as to the condition of our prisoners, as well as our men-at-arms.”

 

“Aye, sire. I shan’t bother ye till supper be served.”

 

Leonardo next went down to the lower deck and checked with the man taking care of his two prisoners. He asked if there were any problems with the two of them, and was told there were none, and that they were being cared for as directed. Leonardo then went up to the main deck and sought the captain.

 

“Well, me good sire, how d’ye be this day?” Asked the captain upon seeing Leonardo, climbing up to the wheelhouse.

 

“Thank ye, Flannigan, I’m tolerably well. What are ye hearing as to our troops? Are they going to be ready within two days?”

 

“That I canna’ say, sire. I have not seen, nor heard from the ground troops in the last few days, but what I can tell ye is that they were in some skirmishes wi’ the island’s forces, and they were bein’ tossed on their arses was the last I’d heard.”

 

“Can ye tell me who I might speak to as to their readiness? For Master LeGace has determined that they need to be at the ready within three days and has tasked me with that duty.”

 

“Methinks that it would be Master Boniface, for it was he that told me of their struggle.”

 

“And can ye tell me where he is at this time?”

 

“In town, at the inn, I would suppose.” He thought for an instant, then added, “If not there, then at the stables, fer he was seein’ to gettin’ mounts and arms fer the men.”

 

“Well, then if ye could get me a boat fer this evening, after dinner, then I shall seek him out.”

 

“Consider it done, sire!”

 

Leonardo stepped down to the main deck and peered out over the railing toward the town. His mind was swirling at this task ahead of him, and he definitely did not feel like sitting down to dinner with LeGace.

 

 

 

 

Antoine LeGace was sitting in his little room below deck and considered his next moves. He did have his two prisoners here on the ship, and the note had been sent, and it had been taken by one of Craycroft’s men. And he considered that part of his plan successful. But what he did not know was what to do, if anything about Count Gregorio. This rascal was an unexpected disruption, which he thought nonetheless that he should be able to turn into a diversion of sorts. At the very least, Craycroft’s forces should be directed elsewhere. And he also thought about the two Scotsmen who arrived as “students” on the isle. The more he thought about them, the more he considered they might actually be spies, and the information they might obtain could be useful indeed.

 

He also thought about Guarneri and Patronis and wondered what they were up to. There was no doubt in his mind that they were both useful and a nuisance. He would like to get rid of them, but their ties to King Henry could pose problems if he was not careful in how he sought to get rid of them. 

 

He wondered if it was wise to let them meander about the place without tighter reins on their rather unpredictable behavior.  They had already shown some areas of concern, and Patronis had shown an inordinate interest in the doings of Master Robert. And that must stop! He thought, but he could not figure a way to stop him without drawing undue attention to his own plans. Ah, well, I need to set up a meeting with them in neutral territory. And I shall need to make it clear that they both need to be there.

 

And then he thought about Drachma, and what his old nemesis had been doing. He knew that young Tom was acting in his stead. But what exactly did he know? He had an inclination, but no certainty of his hunch. Then he thought of just how he could find out. He took out of the drawer his quill and bottle of ink, set them to the side, and next he took a paper from his stack, and composed a short epistle. He then folded the paper over, and took his sealing wax, and then a small candle. He heated the sealing wax, and then after a large blob had formed, he took his own seal out of his coat and pressed it closed over the wax. There, upon the letter was his seal, which showed a wolf’s head. He smiled, looked satisfied, as he placed the seal back inside his cloak, along with his letter.

 

“Master LeGace?” The interruption broke his concentration, and he was suddenly vexed at the intruder.

 

“What is it?” He asked icily.

 

“Pardon the interruption, Master, but I was told to t’ tell ye that supper is bein’ served above.”

 

He looked up at the doorway where his intruder stood against the glow from his meager lamp. He waved his hand, dismissively, and said, “I shall be up anon. Now get ye hence.”

 

When the young man had left, LeGace leaned back in his chair, closed his eyes, and began chanting the ancient words to the darkness. He had places he had to be before dealing with anything as mundane as eating with fools.

 

 

 

 

Below deck, as the two of them just sat in their prison, Lisa could see off to the right the faint blue light from the face of Maggie, who smiled at Lisa, and motioned for her to come to her. She looked toward her companion, and he seemed to be sleeping, so Lisa stood and walked over toward the blue light.

 

“Come, Lisa,” she said, and put out her hand, “we have places we need to be this evening.”

 

“Where would we be goin’?”

 

“Away, away from here. Come, I know the way.”

 

“But what of Master Melchior?” Lisa asked.

 

“Worry not, my child, for he too shall have his day,” came the answer.

 

Without further questioning, Lisa took Maggie’s hand, and the two of them just walked out the previously locked door, and over the side of the ship, and could be seen as a faint blue speck, going out into the sea, and disappearing into the vastness of the ocean. 

 

After the two had gone, Melchior woke, and he was startled to find himself alone. What have they done with Lisa? He wondered, and he searched his meager room, finding no trace of the girl. But right where she would have been, he was startled to find something quite unexpected. There on her small seat was a loaf of bread, still warm.

 

He lifted the loaf to his face and smelled the fragrance as if just from the oven. What is this? He wondered. And quite suddenly the story of Brother Philip and his quest came to him, and so after a moment of silent thanks, he broke off a piece and ate it. And in the stillness, as he ate the bread, he could sense the young girl, and she seemed to be telling him that all would be well, and Lisa would be cared for. 

 

So, he just ate the bread, grateful for its soothing effect, as he silently cried, and let the evening envelope him and his circumstances.

 

 

 

 

Alone in his room, Drachma sat and stared into the future, as if he could truly see it unfolding. He knew Tom could take care of things here. But there was something nagging at his consciousness. Something was there, far off in the distance of time and space. He closed his eyes and concentrated. He could feel the pull of this other world drawing him ever closer, and he felt himself emerge into the back room of an inn. There in front of him, at a large table was the gathering of persons, and together they emitted an aura, which tugged at his soul.

 

At the head of the table sat the earl of Shepperton, who now appeared to be in excellent health, with a vitality he had not seen in years. And he sat there at a table full of women and one young girl. They seemed to be enjoying the meal, and the music, which flowed from a band of five musicians in another corner of the room. He could see the emotions at the table were deep. There were both joys and sorrows cutting at the persons around the table.

 

As they ate and drank from the table, with the food and ale flowing freely, their talk also loosened. It became apparent that one of them, the young girl, became the center of their attention. There she was, beautiful, yet totally bald, and fragile as a plucked flower. She seemed to hold them all enthralled as she spoke. She spoke with wild gestures, and with authority of voice. Drachma leaned in to try to see what she was saying, but her words were not distinct to him. He was able to only make out the name of Janie, and that “Janie would have wanted it this way.” 

 

Drachma settled back down, absorbing what he could of the atmosphere of the place, and simply observing what he was able. His attention was then drawn toward the far right, and to a corner where he could see none other than Antoine LeGace, who was also studying the table of participants. He could see LeGace pull something from his cloak and set it on the table in front of him, as he waited patiently for the right time.

 

LeGace - here? Now what in the world is he planning? LeGace’s presence in this place was as disturbing as anything he could imagine. Yet he decided to sit and observe. Perhaps the answer would come in time. The implications, though, were staggering.

 

The evening wore on, and the music flowed, and as the participants’ voices grew quieter, he noticed that LeGace stood up, and walked over to the table. Evidently, his presence was not seen, and with casual aloofness, he dropped a paper onto the table near the earl, and then, with a nod to Drachma, he was gone.

 

Realizing his circumstances, Drachma got up, and moved quickly toward the table. As he got close, he could tell that no one saw him, and yet there was one who recognized that things had changed – the young girl. She looked about her, took in a deep breath, and then smiled. Meanwhile, attention was directed toward the earl and the letter, which had appeared on the table to his right, seemingly out of nowhere. The earl, though obviously startled, reached for the paper, but then thought better of it.

 

“Now, before I touch this note, and aye, I do know something of whence it came, I should ask Christine to examine it, and to tell us what she can of its origin, and intent, though I should like to hold back on reading it until she is done with it.”

 

As strange as it seemed, she complied. Chris Lewinski reached into her purse, and drew out a pair of latex gloves, which she put on, and then she reached over toward the earl, and picked up the letter. She carefully examined the paper and the wax seal. She held it up toward the light, frowned intensely as she put the note back down. And then she addressed the others.

 

“What I can say so far, is that this letter, though seemingly not addressed to anyone in particular, was clearly intended to be received by our earl. It would appear to come from the same time and place from where the other notes have come. And yet… this is different somehow. The paper is not identical. It is lighter to the touch, and not quite the same color. And this seal, though it looks superficially similar, is also not identical to that on one of our previous notes. So, what I could say is that this letter was delivered, somehow, to the rightful earl for whom it was intended. But underlying all of that, I do not have a good feeling about its contents… for I sense that there is evil here.”

 

“That is remarkable, truly,” said the earl. “Christine has discerned much, without reading the letter. And I would say that I agree with her thus far. And now, in front of all of you, I shall read this epistle.” The earl took back the letter and looked carefully at the seal. Using his table knife, he opened the letter, and then frowned intently at the message before reading it aloud to the people at the table.

 

 

                    To the former Earl of Shepperton – greetings

 

                    Let it be known to thee, that thy former realm is now

                    being ruled by a commoner, a certain Craycroft, 

                    who does rule, in absentia, for the Earl of Derrymoor.

                    It be my intention to put an end to this, and to take up

                    rule over the Island Nation. I shall be doing so with 

                    the blessing of England’s King Henry.

                    Now I do know that you still carry influence over

                    persons who might still exert some power over

                    events in Shepperton.

 

                    So, be ye warned – if I do find that Drachma, or anyone

                    else within his service or thine has been meddling in

                    the events of Shepperton, I shall take it upon myself

                    to make certain that this window through time shall

                    be forever closed, and all of Drachma’s doings

                    shall be forever made naught.

 

                             Antoine LeGace

                            Third Prefect, Order of Byzantium

 

There was silence throughout the inn. The music had even paused. The folks around the table were looking at each other, thinking about who should say something. Finally, it was Amanda who opened her mouth to speak.

 

“It would seem to me that this letter does open up a number of possibilities. But first I must ask, is this Antoine fellow capable of doing the kinds of things that he says? And next have we been doing what he implies? Now, I assume that this letter is being given to you in our presence for a specific reason, and what is that?”

 

“It is not accidental that this young lass is among us now,” said the earl. “She is most perceptive and does see through our vain attempts to try as we may to move our own created mountains. Now, young lassie, to answer your queries, first I would state that I know little of Master LeGace’s abilities to do what he threatens, but I do know of his treachery, and that he has escaped the clutches of the law many times over, and in multiple places. And to think that he perhaps is protected by powers beyond our ken would not be unreasonable. I personally have only met the man once, but he has been described as having the visage of the devil himself by those whom he has threatened. Now I cannot say with any certainty, for I do not remember precisely, and I did not feel overtly threatened by him at the time.

 

“Now, to your other question, you ask if we have been doing what he implies – and to that I would say emphatically that we have, indeed, been meddling in the affairs of Shepperton. For you see that I am here and am healed of the illness from which I was dying in Shepperton. And that was an illness inflicted upon me by none other than our Master LeGace and his conspirator, Councilor Reordan. Further, it should be noted that we have sent envoys from here and now who have insinuated themselves into the lives of the people of Shepperton. And these include our own Dr. Robert Gilsen, the Lady Judy Morrison, and more recently Marilyn Gilsen and Charles Stephens.”

 

“Then what are we supposed to do,” Amanda asked, “and more precisely, what are you suggesting that we do? For I do have a feeling that the message was also intended for the man, Drachma, who is among us now.”

 

“Drachma – here?” asked Lonnie. “I don’t see him anywhere.”

 

“Neither do I, but I know he’s here. I can feel him and smell him next to me.”

 

“Feel and smell him? Whatever do you mean, young lady?” asked the earl.

 

“Shortly after your letter arrived, I could sense something, as if a faint breeze came in from the forest, and I could smell the aroma of the forest, as if I could smell the earth, mixed with ancient trees. And somehow, I knew it was Drachma.”

 

“Drachma, or someone from that other time and place,” noted Lonnie.

 

“Oh, it’s definitely Drachma - there’s his authority and power I can sense.”

 

“Can you communicate with him?” asked Chris.

 

“I really don’t know, but I get the feeling that what we say and do now he will carry with him. And he seems to be saying, “Do not fear.””

 

 

 

 

 

 

Back in his own room, Drachma was writing a note on a small piece of paper. He next rolled up the little piece of paper and fit it into a tiny cylinder. He went out to where the pigeons were and chose one. He clamped the note to the holder on the bird’s left leg and then carried the bird ever so gently outside.

 

As he watched the bird take flight, he muttered quietly, “Get ye hence now, and take the message to Tom. I shall await, though I know not how much time I have left.”

 

Then the old man, exhausted, walked back into his study, found his chair and his flask of wine, and sat down. As he drifted to sleep, he thought he could make out the form of Maggie in the distance, out on the water, leading a young girl by the hand.

 

 

 

 

Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two, Chapter Eighteen

This is one of the turning points of the story. Charlie Stephens is in for the ride of his life!

Chapter Eighteen

 

 

 

 

Charlie arriving at the inn, carrying the youth, made quite a scene. The patrons of the inn had never seen anyone who looked like Charlie, and when he opened his mouth it was instantly apparent that he was a stranger. The innkeeper and his maid instantly made the youth a place to lie down by the front window. Charlie then sat down in a chair next to the boy’s head. The smell of the burned youth and his clothes arose from his body and permeated the small inn.

 

“Look, I’m so sorry to bring you this poor kid, but he told me, before he passed out, that this would be the place to take him. Has anyone seen a girl named Maggie anywhere around these parts?”

 

His speech sounded so foreign, and his words were only partly understandable.

 

“Maggie? Nay, we d’na know the lass. Is she yer daughter or yer maid?” The innkeeper asked. “Might I ask wha’ happened t’ the lad? And where ye be acomin’ from?”

 

“Let’s just say that I’m from a long way away.” Charlie thought about telling them more, and then thought better of it. “Let’s just leave it at that for now. Now, as I was walking down from the mountain, and came to the sea, I saw this shed burning. And from the entrance, I came upon this boy, who was obviously burned and injured, and I got him out of the burning building, and then I brought him here. I don’t know who he is, but he did mention that he had seen some girl named Maggie – and no, I don’t really know her – and she told him that this was where to come. And so this was where I brought him. Does anyone know him?”

 

The maid answered him, “He’s one o’ the lads what live ‘round here, though nobody knows where. He goes by the name o’ Wheezer. That’s all I know. But I do know as he does eat some o’ the scraps from here. Now what do we do wi’ ‘im?”

 

“Is there any place we could get him some medical attention?”

 

“The only place ‘round here be the castle o’er yonder.” The innkeeper pointed with his hand. “But I know not whether they can do ought fer ‘im, nor if they’ll e’en see ‘im. As Chrissy was sayin’, he’s one o’ the urchins, an’ has no one to speak fer ‘im.”

 

“Well, it would appear that he does now,” said Charlie, “as I’ve stumbled upon him. If we could figure some way to get him to the castle, maybe I could prevail upon the powers that be to aid in his survival.” Charlie said this without any conviction. But he knew it felt right. He felt in his coat pocket, and the pendant was still in its place.

 

The people at the inn had managed to procure the services of a wagon, and quickly got the stricken youth into the wagon, along with Charlie. The driver of the wagon was named Ezekiel and appeared to Charlie to be very old. But he was small, wiry, and moved with the ease of a much younger man.

 

“Well, the castle is up yonder,” he said, indicating a vague direction with his shoulder, “an’ I expect it’ll be about an hour afore we’ll be there. Ye can keep the laddie as comf’t’ble as ye may. Now here’s some water fer the young thing. I expect, he’ll be aneedin’ some.”

 

Charlie took the jug of water and held it to the lips of the youth. As he did so, he noted a strange odor, a peculiar sweet odor. The youth had regained just enough consciousness to take some water. He choked, but did keep down the small drink, and then accepted some more. The cart was lurching up the muddy street, and then turned left onto what must have been a more main road. What they could see by the moonlight was limited. Charlie filled in the time by asking some questions of Ezekiel, which to the old man made this stranger seem like a dimwit, indeed. Asking things such as where they were, and what was the year. But it soon became apparent that this may have been a ruse, as he then asked about the state of affairs on the island, and it was obvious that he knew of the people who were running things, such as Craycroft and Kerlin, and he even knew of Tom and Drachma. Ezekiel’s answers became a bit more guarded as they plodded on. Charlie sensed this and figured that he had touched on a sensitive nerve when he mentioned Drachma.

 

Wheezer was becoming more arousable as they went along and took more of the water before going back to sleep.

 

“How’s the laddie, then,” asked Ezekiel, “an’ d’ye think he’ll make it?”

 

“I really don’t know. If Maggie hadn’t been involved, I’d say that I doubted it, but with her being involved – she seemed to have some sort of otherworldly connection.”

 

“Maggie? I know not this lass. Is she kin t’ye?”

 

“Kin? No, she’s not.” Then it was Charlie whose answers became more guarded. For just how could you explain Maggie?

 

After another half hour, with as much information as they cared to divulge, the cart began the ascent to the castle. In the moonlit night, it stood out like some sort of gigantic form over the hill ahead of them. Charlie pulled out his little notebook with its drawing, to compare, but he couldn’t see anything on it. Nevertheless, he had an idea, and he put the notebook back into his pocket.

 

They approached the gate, and Charlie noted there were torches illuminating the magnificent archway, as well as inside the castle. They were stopped by a pair of guards at the gate, who asked their business at this hour. Ezekiel explained that they had an injured youth with them. 

 

The guards looked at the obviously injured youth, and said, “Well, ‘twould appear to be Wheezer, an’ ‘e looks to be in a sad state, indeed.”

 

“Aye, that be his name,” answered Ezekiel.

 

“Well, you may take ‘im to Sick Bay, but with him bein’ Wheezer and all, I canna’ say whether they’re likely to take ‘im in. Gerald will show ye the way. But what o’ the stranger? You, me man, where d’ye be from, and what be yer business here?”

 

“My name is Charles Stephens. And I’m not from this island.” Charlie reached into his pocket and pulled out the notebook, found the picture and handed it to the guards. “I was sent in search of this castle here. And on the way, I found this youth who had been injured, and was in a burning building…”

 

“Aye. ‘tis plain that ye’re not from this isle, as yer dress and yer speech do tell. Well, Gerald’ll keep an eye upon ye.”

 

“In truth, Sandy, look at this drawin’ o’ the castle! Ne’er have I seen anythin’ like it. It does appear to have been created by an artist or magician beyond our ken.”

 

The two guards passed his drawing back and forth. Ezekiel also took a look and whistled his approval. Eventually, they handed it back to Charlie, who quietly closed the notebook, then slipped it back into his pocket.

 

“Well, Gerald, ye can take ‘em to Sick Bay, but as I told ye, there’s no tellin’ whether they’ll take in yer lad.”

 

As the cart lumbered out into the courtyard, Charlie stared about him, and couldn’t believe his eyes. The place was enormous, and what he could see in the moonlight only added to the majesty of the castle. As they crossed the great courtyard then headed to the left Charlie was assaulted by the smells of the stables, and off in the distance a dog barked, with others joining. They came upon a fairly modest structure, where they stopped.

 

“Ye wait here, I’ll go inside ‘n see if’n they’ll see ye.” Gerald’s officiousness seemed somewhat comical to Charlie, but the three of them stayed put for the moment.

 

A few moments after, Gerald reappeared, with two other persons, one a large man, who walked with a noticeable limp, and the other a youth who virtually ran out to the cart ahead of the others.

 

“Wheezer! Are ye hurt?” Then the youth looked over the boy and called the other man over. “Come, Fergon, we must get this one inside quickly. And I shall send for Craycroft anon.”

 

The large man lifted Wheezer with the utmost care, and took him inside, the others following, with Charlie bringing up the rear. Inside the building, with its very tall ceilings, were multiple cots, with some taken up by an assortment of persons. They took Wheezer over to one of the far cots, where the youth took over, and began rapidly giving instructions and what it sounded to Charlie like orders. There was scurrying about, with one of the youths sent out, and the others carefully removing Wheezer’s clothing, and bringing him fresh linens. The young man was examining him, and when he came to the abdomen, his look became very grave. He was next allowed to rest, with clean covers, as one of the young women in attendance began heating some water in a large kettle, and another just stayed with the injured boy, gently stroking his face. 

 

When he could see that all was done as he had instructed, the youth in charge turned toward Charlie, and approached him.

 

“Now, kind sir, I do know of whence ye came, for yer clothes do give that away. But can ye tell me, please, how ye came upon poor Wheezer here?”

 

“You know where I came from?”

 

The youth nodded. “Aye. Ye’ve come from the same place as Master Robert, and the Lady Judy. Me name be Aaron, and I work fer Lord Craycroft. He be the ruler of our island.”

 

“And you asked how I came upon this poor boy, and I’ll tell you. But first, let me ask you, does the name Falma mean anything to you?”

 

“Aye, it does, indeed! It means that ye’d better tell Craycroft himself. And to let ye know that I’ve summoned him here anon.”

 

“And just one more thing, Aaron, does the name Derrymoor mean anything to you?”

 

“Derrymoor? Indeed, it does as well! ‘twould mean that ye’re in truly rare company, me good sir.”

 

Charlie put his hand in his pocket, and he felt the scrimshaw broach. He thought about showing Aaron. But then the door to the building opened, and in walked a group of men, whom Charlie immediately recognized as persons in charge.

 

Craycroft spoke first. “Now, Aaron, what is this pressing matter?” Then recognizing Charlie’s clothes. “And do introduce me to this man, who does appear in our midst, no doubt from Master Robert’s time and place.”

 

“Ah, Lord Craycroft, I know not his name, but he came here with the injured and badly burned Wheezer. And I believe it fitting that he tell ye the story of how he came to be here. Especially as he does come, mentioning the name of Falma.”

 

“Indeed! A name I have not heard in many months.” Craycroft paused, as he wiped away a stray tear. “Then do come, my man, and tell us your name and your tale, even as I examine this most unfortunate of urchins. I am Craycroft, the present lord of this castle and this isle. But I did not come to that title except by the will of the people. For I am trained as a physician, and not a ruler. And let me have you meet these gentlemen with me. This fine young man is Drachma, the Younger, who does go by the name of Tom.” Charlie’s eyes widened at this news. “And this fine fellow is none other than the earl of Derrymoor, who does, in fact rule over the island in the name of the English King.” 

 

“Now, let me get this straight,” said Charlie in a hoarse whisper. “In this room right now we have you, Mister Craycroft, along with Tom, whom I know through Falma, as well as the final piece of this puzzle – the earl of Derrymoor. Let me just sit down a minute, ‘cause this is a bit too much for me right now.”

 

Charlie then sat down on a bench, and he shook his head. He then said, “Tom, you know me, you know who I am and what I’m doing here, don’t you?”

 

“Aye, that I do. You are none other than Charles Stephens, the man who connects the lives of Lady Judy, and Master Robert, and the Lady Marilyn with the lives of the earl of Shepperton, along with Joshua, his parents, Janie and Earl, and now with Lonnie and Amanda; and, of course, our own dear Falma. Would that not be right?”

 

“Wow! I never thought about it that way, but I guess you’re right. I’m just a reporter from the twentieth century, but even though I’ve never met Judy, I do seem to have connections with all their lives.” He hesitated, and then went on. “But for now, I believe the life of this child is our major concern. And let me tell you, that I as usual, had no idea what I was walking into. I was brought over to your world by Falma, who told me where I was to go when I came out of the woods, but he, true to form, disappeared in the woods. Anyway, he told me to walk to the sea, which I did, when I came upon a small building, which was burning, and out of this building this youngster came crawling, who had been burnt and also stabbed. And you know what he said? He said that he had been told by someone named Maggie that I’d be by to take him to the inn of the village. And from there, here we are.”

 

Craycroft had already started examining Wheezer, but at the mention of Maggie, quickly turned and asked, “What do you know of Maggie? And how is it that you also have connections with the lass? ‘twould seem that you are a man of most extraordinary and far-reaching influence.” He then turned back to his patient and said, “but you are so right that we must attend to this lad’s needs. It would seem that he was, in fact stabbed in the belly. He is burned and has lost fluids. We shall take care to bandage his wounds, and try to provide him with fluids, but I would note that he is quite ill, and may be with us for a while. But you said that it was Maggie who told him that you would be by, and to bring him by way of the inn? Tell me was there a lass named Chrissy there at the inn?”

 

“Yes, there was.”

 

“Ah, that is good, then. The Inn of Four Arms, then. Am I right?”

 

“Aye, ye be right, m’lord,” answered Ezekiel.

 

“Well, me good man, when you get back to the inn, please tell yon mistress that she did well by me, and here’s a little something to take back for Chrissy, and one for you as well.” Craycroft took a couple of coins from his belt and handed them to the surprised Ezekiel.

 

“Oh, me thanks, m’lord. And I shall take this to Mistress Chrissy anon.” And then he stepped out of the building and headed back out into the night.

 

“Aaron, could you take these to the Four Arms,” said Craycroft, handing Aaron two coins, “and make certain that Chrissy does get these.”

 

Aaron winked his acknowledgment to Craycroft.

 

“But now, Master Charles, you did indicate that you knew something of Derrymoor, did you not?”

 

“Sort of… you see, I came with a puzzle. Before I left my own time and place, Janie who was Josh’s mother, died, and she gave me this pendant, with the name of Derrymoor on it.”

 

“A pendant?” asked Derrymoor, suddenly alarmed. “Might I see it, my good man?”

 

Charlie drew the pendant and its chain out of his pocket and handed it over to the earl. 

 

“And you say it came from your time and place?”

 

“Ah, well that’s sort of right. Before she died, she gave it to me, and said that it might provide some answers. But she didn’t indicate just what the questions were.”

 

“It would seem to me that our esteemed guest would need some sustenance, as there are multiple questions to answer, and they would be best answered over some victuals at Barncuddy’s. What do you say, Tom and Sir Derrymoor? Shall we?”

 

As Craycroft gave orders to the attendants for young Wheezer, Derrymoor looked carefully at the pendant, and then reverently placed it back into the hands of Charlie. Then Craycroft, Tom, Derrymoor, Aaron and Charlie all headed out into the night, and across the great courtyard toward Barncuddy’s Ale House.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two, Chapter Seventeen

 Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two, Chapter Seventeen. Here we get the magic again, but this time the magic comes with warnings!

Chapter Seventeen

 

 

 

As the ragged cluster of mounted men entered the village, Bob’s insides began to recoil. The thought of this place, which he had not seen in four years, brought back memories of the time he arrived on the isle, confused, disoriented and alone. The village of Clannach looked just as he remembered, even to the small hut, which had housed the smelly old man, Allen of Burridge.

 

I wonder what became of him, thought Bob. And I wonder if he’s still alive. Bob thought back again of that time, and the kindness of the old man, who had gotten him the warm cloak, as the armed men took him away.

 

The street turned past the hut, which looked to be deserted, and the door stood half open. As they passed the hut, Bob thought for just a moment that he saw a figure in the doorway. And then as they went further, he was sure of it. There was someone inside looking directly at him, but her look was one of silent warning.

 

“What is it?” Hermes asked in a coarse whisper.

 

“It’s Maggie, isn’t it? In the doorway.”

 

“Aye, ye be right! But what is it she be doing?”

 

“I can’t be sure, but it would appear that she is here to warn us of something…”

 

And then she vanished from their sight.

 

As the small troupe headed east along the village toward Killiburn, Bob and Hermes stayed close. Each one felt unnerved by the apparition but kept silent. Adding to the atmosphere, Bob felt the same unease that he did when he first came to Killiburn, as a prisoner then as well. He longed to tell Hermes about it, but just kept silent for the time.

 

The road took them the same way, up a slight hill toward the barracks. As they approached, Bob wondered just how Gregorio’s men had managed to wrest control of the barracks from the Forest Guard, but he said nothing. He turned control of his horse, as did the others, to the guards standing by the stables. The prisoners were led inside, and the memories hit Bob again with a force to the gut. There was the same layout, with the bunks, and the fireplace in the middle, and the same smell of armpits and stale urine. The prisoners were told to take their places on the old cots, while the guards and Gregorio chattered in some foreign tongue, filled with wild gesturing.

 

Eventually, Gregorio came to the prisoners, and said, “You must stay here. I go now to speak with my men. The guards bring you food. You understand?”

 

“Aye, we understand,” said Kevin. Then, as Gregorio turned away, he gave Bob and Hermes a glance as if to say, “wait.”

 

As they were sitting on their cots, waiting for the guards to bring them sustenance, Kevin turned to the other two and, under his breath, whispered, “Worry not. For help shall be coming.”

 

Bob and Hermes nodded, but said nothing. The smaller of the guards returned, carrying two sacks of provisions, and a jug of water. He laid them on the table, and gestured to the prisoners to come, eat.

 

As they were eating and drinking, Bob thought he could hear, off to the right, what sounded like scuffling. But then it was silent again. He didn’t realize quite how hungry and thirsty he had become, and the meal, though simple, seemed to provide him a much-needed lift. And the water, to his delight, did not have that strange, sickly sweet odor.

 

Just then the door to the barracks burst open, and in stepped the largest man Bob had ever seen. He was dressed in green of the Forest Guard, and quickly dispatched the two guards to the back room and looked as if they wanted no part of this giant. As they cowered in the other room, Kevin and Hermes took hold of Bob, and went for the door. Outside, they had fresh horses waiting for them. 

 

As the three of them alit, the giant appeared at the doorway, and said to Hermes and Kevin, “Now, be gone, my friends, ye know the way!  Ah, I see they have provided swords for each of ye. I shall stay, and with me men, I shall take care of dealings with our Italian Count, who should be coming back any minute.”

 

“Aye, we do know the way.” Answered Kevin. “And thanks be t’ye, Fausto. And me regards t’yer brothers.”

 

“’Til later, then, o’er a pitcher or two of Barncuddy’s finest!”

 

“Aye, ‘til then! Now follow me.” And with that, he turned his horse, and the three of them cantered out of town.

 

But as they were leaving, Bob looked over to his right and saw something, which drained the color from his face. For there on a horse, with a cluster of men-at-arms around her was none other than Marilyn. In that instant, as if a light emanated from her visage, he could see all the years of care, and felt himself stricken. But her face bore only sadness and concern, without reproach.

 

Hermes noted his companion’s ashen appearance, and when they had ridden out of the village, came alongside and asked, “Master Robert, now I know that ye knew that lady back there, didn’t ye?”

 

“Oh, Hermes, you could definitely say that, for the lady was none other than my wife, Marilyn.”

 

“Yer wife? But what of Lady Judy?”

 

Bob was silent for some time. Then he swallowed and began telling his two companions aspects of his prior life.

 

“You know, I came here four years ago, from another time and place… And that now seems like a former and rather unreal part of my own life. Now what Judy has been, as odd as this may sound, she has become an anchor to this world, and yet she was the only link I had to my former life. And now, of all things, she is pregnant with my child (and believe me, that’s another story). 

 

“And you must forgive me, but all this time I was assuming that my staying here, in your time was made permanent by my own decisions as we sent your earl to our world. And now, it would appear that my own presuppositions may have been at the very least naive, and perhaps dangerous as well. You saw her didn’t you, Hermes?”

 

“D’ye mean Maggie? Aye, I did see her, there in the village.”

 

“It would seem that Maggie was there as a warning to me, or to us, that things may be getting a bit more tense at the least.”

 

“What d’ye mean, Master Robert?”

 

“Well, let me tell you, that a while ago, Tom was in our home back in Shepperton, and while he was there, he fell into some sort of a trance, and from his mouth there came words of both benediction and warning. He said that my life and work had been a gift to his people. And that they had been given the power to protect me, and that I should accept your help, and the help of Alex, but also of Marilyn.”

 

The three of them rode on in silence for a time. Then as if he had been thinking things over, Hermes spoke suddenly. “’Twould seem to me, Master Robert, that Tom was in touch with truth beyond our ken. For how else would he e’en know of Alex and of Marilyn? This was afore he had a chance to meet them, was it not?”

 

“It was Hermes, it was indeed.”

 

“I canna’ vouch for no one else, but as fer meself, I would state again, that I would do anything t’ protect ye. Of that ye can be certain.”

 

“It would seem to me,” answered Bob, “that any threats to me here would not be of the kind you could protect me from. Rather, it would be information that I might need…”

 

“Information? What kind…”

 

It was as if Kevin had sensed something that neither of the other two could hear. He brought his horse to a standstill and held his arm up.

 

“What is it?” Hermes said in a voice just above a whisper.

 

They were now well outside the village and were in the woods. The ground had risen to the ridge they were on. The path below, in the fading light of evening looked to disappear where the sound of flowing water originated. They could see Kevin staring intently down toward the river below. Both Bob and Hermes looked and listened, but neither could discern what it was that alarmed Kevin.

 

Kevin just sat for a while and stared ahead. Then he proceeded at a walk, going around, and avoiding the path to their right. No one said a word, but they just went where Kevin led, single file. After going along for another half hour, he turned and headed down again toward the river. As they came down to the river, he paused again, and looked back up the river. In the dim light, Bob and Hermes could see nothing at all. With a hand signal, he then advanced, cautiously across the river, with Bob and Hermes following behind. On the other side, Kevin seemed to visibly relax, as he took them up a hill. The top of the hill was bare of any trees, and he then pointed back the way they came, where they could just make out a band of riders, coming out of the woods, and heading toward the village.

 

“As I thought… and feeling it better not to engage that large band of horsemen, I brought you this way. I know not who they be, but I now feel safer.”

 

“I believe you were described as having the eyes of an eagle and the ears of a fox, Kevin.” Bob noted, “and for that I am exceedingly grateful.”

 

“Well, come along then. We have a ways to go ere morning, me mates.”

 

And as the trio headed back into the woods, and climbed by the light of the full moon, into the mountainous darkness, Bob had even more to consider. He now felt like his two worlds were about to crush him, but he could now smell the familiar aroma of the deep woods envelop him.

 

 

 

Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two, Chapter Sixteen

 Here it is, the next chapter of Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two - this time, it's Chapter Sixteen. And to remind you, this is a raw, unedited version.

Chapter Sixteen

 

 

 

As oncology and hospice nurses, Brenda and Lonnie had had many occasions to attend funerals, and each one it seemed took its toll. This one they realized, was going to be particularly tough, especially considering their back-seat passenger. The two nurses in the front seats chatted quietly about work, while Amanda sat and stared out the window.

 

“Do you know,” Amanda spoke up unexpectedly, “what Maggie whispered to me?”

 

“No, Amanda,” Lonnie turned around to see the child, “Do tell.”

 

“It was after Janie died the other night. Maggie just came to my room. I couldn’t see her, but I knew she was there. Well, she kind of whispered to me, and she said to tell you that Charlie had made it in time to save the boy’s life.”

 

“How very strange! What boy?”

 

“That’s what I asked, and she said the boy in the burning building by the sea.”

 

“Oh, my!” Lonnie reacted. “I wonder if that was expected. I’m quite sure Charlie didn’t anticipate that. And I’m just as certain that Falma knew something. What happened then? Did she just leave?”

 

“Oh, no, Lonnie. She left me this.” Amanda reached into the pocket of her dark blue jacket, and pulled out a small sheet of paper, folded in half, and handed it to Lonnie.

 

“What is it?” Asked Brenda, trying to see while driving.

 

“It’s a note, and if this is true to form, it will only serve to deepen the mystery, and increase my own involvement.” Lonnie again noted the off-white color, and the unusual stiffness of the paper. “Did she say who it was for?”

 

“No, it was just fluttered onto my bed as she left.”

 

Lonnie opened the folded paper and read.

 

                        To the persons reading this letter -

                        Greetings!

                        Be it known to you and yours that

                        this child bears the stamp of eternity.

                        Listen to her. She shall tell ye of what

                        and when the time shall be.

                        It shall be soon enough, and she shall

                        be provided the means.

 

                        We shall wait until then,

                               Drachma, the Elder of the Forest

 

Lonnie blinked, and silently reread the note, and noticed the writing, and the ink. The ink had the appearance of age, and the handwriting had a peculiar slant to the left. It was at once familiar and new. Charlie and Judy had both spoken of having seen notes like this. And she couldn’t believe that Amanda could fabricate anything this intricately old, nor would she. 

 

“Oh my!” she sighed at last. “Amanda, what do think about this note?”

 

“I don’t know what to say about the note. And don’t ask me about what I’m supposed to know or to tell you, because I don’t know that myself. And just what does he mean that I bear the stamp of eternity? I certainly don’t know anything about that.”

 

“Oh, Amanda, I do believe that this Drachma person considers you extremely special (as do I), for if you think about it, who else do you know who has been visited by Maggie, and who else has been witness to the happenings in two far apart centuries? You’re now precious to persons in two centuries, far apart both in time and distance. I’m so glad that the sisters let you come today.”

 

“Well, I had to come, because Janie told me to come.”

 

“She did? When was that?”

 

“That was some weeks ago. I talked to her, and she was thinking about going on hospice. That was when she told me about Charlie. And she made me promise to be at her funeral.”

 

“That sounds like kind of a grim conversation. So, you knew Charlie would appear in your life, huh? Before he ever did?”

 

“Uh huh. And no, our talking was actually kind of fun. We were actually joking and laughing – imagine, two people laughing at sickness and death. And yes, that’s how I knew about dear Charlie - from Janie.”

 

“And it was Janie who wanted you to come to her funeral? You know, I get the feeling that there was a reason for that…”

 

“Oh, there is a good reason. And you’ll find out, too.”

 

“My goodness, girl, it seems that you are full of surprises!”

 

As she was saying this, Brenda was turning in to the parking lot of Shiloh Chapel. She found a parking space up front, and then she and her companions got out of the car.

 

“Could I see the note?” asked Brenda. It was more than curiosity that led to her asking.

 

“Sure, here it is.” Lonnie handed her the note. Brenda studied the little off-white note, turned it over, looking at the back of it. Then she held it up to the light and squinted at it. “Here, look at this.”

 

The other two looked, and they could see the faint watermark. It was in the shape of a wolf’s head.

 

“Now, what does that mean?” asked Lonnie. “And how did you know to look?”

 

“I’ll explain after the funeral. Come on, let’s get inside.”

 

They went into the front door, and walked into the hushed interior, and were shown down the hallway by a tall man in a dark suit. Before the women stepped into the chapel, the tall man had them sign the guest register. He next studied their names, and from the table behind him took a small red flower, and he pinned it to Amanda’s coat. Amanda smiled up at him. He smiled back knowingly, bowed his head to her, and she entered wordlessly. Inside, the organ was playing quietly and unobtrusively. The chapel was fairly small, and there were rows of chairs, about half-filled with people. In the front of the chapel, to the left of the lectern, was Janie’s casket. It was open, and Janie’s body was there, in perfect stillness, in her favorite pink gown. In the front row sat Earl, and several others the women did not recognize.

 

When the two nurses found a place to sit, Amanda also sat down next to them, but took the aisle seat. Lonnie smiled at the earl of Shepperton, and Carol, who sat in the seats just to the front. Lonnie turned to Amanda and whispered, “Now, what was that all about, my little lady?”

 

“Remember what I told you?” Amanda whispered in her ear. “It was part of Janie’s plan.”

 

The funeral service began, and despite their previous experience with funerals, it soon came too close to their hearts. Lonnie and Brenda each pulled out some tissue from their purses. But Amanda just stared ahead, dry-eyed but somber. The service seemed to go on as most do, with biblical readings and songs. And then a couple of people got up and talked of Janie, and what she meant to the community and to what was left of her family. Earl just sat in the front row, too stymied by grief to do anything but dab at his eyes. 

 

But next, the preacher smiled, and he looked directly at Amanda and said, “Now, I have in my hand a note, written by Janie a week ago, in which she had a very special request. There is a fellow cancer patient here among us.  She had agreed to speak at Janie’s service, and comes to us from the Sisters of the Poor, where she attends the fifth grade. Apparently, she and Janie decided that it would be fitting to share some of what sisterly bonding can occur among those afflicted with the illness of cancer. So, with that in mind, I would ask Amanda Barnes to come forward. If you would be so kind, Amanda…”

 

Amanda stood up, and fearlessly moved to the front. Lonnie and Brenda just looked at each other with puzzled looks upon their faces. The others in attendance also stared at the little girl, pale, bald and beautiful, who looked so completely comfortable in front of the crowd. Then as she began to speak, the words and emotions began to tear at the heart of each one present.

 

“I’m Amanda, and I’m in the fifth grade. And I’ve got cancer too. At first the doctors all thought they’d be able to cure it, but now it’s come back, and they don’t talk anymore of cures. They just talk of prolonging my life. Anyway, I’ll tell you just how I came to know Janie. It was about six months ago. She had just been told she had cancer, and had had surgery, and she was getting ready to have radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. But you know, she was more interested in me and my life than in telling about hers. And, before long we became really close friends. And every time I could, I would talk to her. And we’d talk about anything and everything, but mostly we’d talk about her son Josh, who died four years ago, but how he was now in a place called Shepperton. But his name there is Tom. And I’m here to tell you, that even though it sounds unbelievable, that’s the truth.” She smiled at the earl as she said this, and he smiled back, knowingly.

 

“You might ask, where is Shepperton? And if I told you it was an island in the ocean, between Scotland and Ireland, you might just go back to your maps, and tell me that it’s not there. And I’d tell you that’s right, for you won’t find it on any maps that we have today. And then if I told you that Shepperton was there in the fifteenth century, you’d look in your history books, and tell me there’s nothing in them about Shepperton. And I would agree with you again, ‘cause I’ve done both of those things. And yet, I can tell you absolutely that Shepperton does exist, and that’s where Josh has gone, as well as Dr. Gilsen and Judy Morrison, and more recently Marilyn Gilsen.”

 

There were murmurings among those seated in the assembly. “But there’s more. Charlie Stephens is a TV reporter. He works for the WIOX TV station, and many of you know him, or at least have seen him on TV. Now, he and Janie had become friends over the years since Josh died, and he did a big thing on TV all about the disappearance of Judy and Dr. Gilsen. Now Janie told me that Charlie Stephens would play a big role in what was to happen, and I would meet him.

 

“Now what did she mean by that? Well, if you go back and you look things up, you’ll find some interesting things about Charlie. How, years ago he did a piece on TV about kids who had been abused. And I do know about this, ‘cause there are still kids at the “Sisters” who can tell you that he was just about the most caring person they had ever met, and they still talk about him as if he was one of the saints. And I can tell you that in my own experience, he is a saint… though he doesn’t know it.

 

“Anyway, Charlie walked unexpectedly into my life recently, and he and nurse Lonnie Chavez it seems got themselves into some type of business, which involved Dr. Gilsen and Judy Morrison, and taking place in Shepperton, in the fifteenth century. And it also involved Marilyn Gilsen, Dr. Gilsen’s wife. You see… both Charlie and Marilyn Gilsen aren’t here anymore. You can check with the police about this. They’ve both gone off to Shepperton, each searching for different things and different people. Marilyn’s gone off to search for her husband, who is in some danger. And Charlie’s gone off to find Judy Morrison, who is pregnant, and is also in trouble.”

 

Amanda paused for a few seconds, and noticed a woman sitting in the back row. She smiled at her in recognition, even though the two of them had never met. The woman, a petite, unassuming, middle-aged woman, smiled back timidly. 

 

 

 

 

Christine Lewinsky had decided she needed to go to the funeral of Janie Crabtree. She had decided to go, not particularly as a friend, but in her role as police detective. She had known and met Janie Crabtree a number of times, but their relationship, though very cordial, could hardly be described as friendship. But now, with this missing person’s report, her job had just gotten even more complicated. Thank you, Mr. Stephens, you’ve just made my task even harder. She definitely needed to go to the funeral. She knew she would be able to connect with people who may be able to fill in some of the gaps in her story, which had already taken on otherworldly features, even before this new disappearance.

 

She had no trouble locating Shiloh Chapel, and pulled into the crowded parking lot. She had decided to step in a bit late and had hoped she would not attract any attention by doing so. As she was shown in, and signed the guest register, she made a mental note of the names of some of the other guests. She then eased inside and found a seat in the back row. She looked around, and noticed the earl of Shepperton and his wife, Carol. She noticed Janie’s husband, Earl, in the front row, but did not recognize anyone else.

 

And then she noticed this young waif of a girl, who strode to the front of the chapel, and began speaking. Hers she was, mentioning all the people whom Chris had an interest in. And she spoke with complete confidence, as if she was in touch with the truth of the matter. As a detective, she had learned to tell if people were speaking the truth as they understood it, and those who were trying to hide it. But here was someone who spoke of unbelievable things, and yet spoke as one to whom truth had been revealed, and she was merely passing it along.

 

And when she smiled at her, as if she knew, Chris’s heart began to race, and she could feel herself flushing. All she could do was smile back at the little girl. 

 

After the service ended, Amanda took Lonnie’s hand and brought the two women back to meet Chris Lewinsky. After she deposited the two women with the detective, she quickly went to get the earl of Shepperton, and brought him along with Carol back with her as well. 

 

“It would appear, my dear ones, that our little Amanda, here, has something in mind for our getting together. Is that not right, Amanda?”

 

“That’s right. When I was up there speaking, and I saw Miss Lewinsky come in and sit down, I knew all the pieces of the puzzle were fitting together, and that we were needing to go sit down to eat and discuss this whole thing.”

 

“Now, young lady,” said Chris, “Have we ever met before? I don’t remember if we have.”

 

“Not exactly, Miss Lewinsky. But I do remember you from one of your visits to the sisters. You came there last year, investigating what happened to Francine’s parents. And I remember, because I had to comfort her for several days afterwards.” She answered in her even-handed way, stating the facts, not accusing. But her words stung Chris Lewinsky.

 

“Gracious! I had no idea of the effect I had on her. Please tell her I meant her no harm… Would you do that, please?”

 

“I would, but she’s gone now. Where, I don’t know. They only tell us so much. But if it’s any help, she did forgive you. She told me that. It was hard, but she did, and you know, it was just you, doing your job.”

 

Chris’s eyes began to water. Here was a mere girl, never having spoken to her before, seemingly calling her out, not just for past rudeness, but also for coming out to this sacred rite, again with the idea of just doing her job. She swallowed hard.

 

“Then I ask your forgiveness, for I was again just coming out here to do my job. And now it appears that I’ve really stepped into something… something mysterious and powerful. And, also something, I fear, which may make doing my job even more stressful, and ultimately meaningless.” 

 

“Meaningless?” The earl spoke up. “I hardly think so. For if you remember, Charlie had been sought by forces over which he had little control, and little knowledge. So, your investigation may seem meaningless to those not in the know, but in the ultimate scheme of things, I am quite certain that it shall have considerable meaning.”

 

“Well, since we’re talking of meaning in our muddled-up world,” Lonnie said, “I know just the place that I believe we should meet. It’s not too far from here, and it’s called the Three Knights Inn. And I happen to know from experience that it is in fact a place with memories and connections to centuries past… That, and a bit of magic as well. But before we go off to that place of wonder, could I see that note again, Amanda?”

 

Amanda took the note out of her coat again, and, with just a hint of a smile, handed it over to Lonnie, who then handed it in turn to the earl of Shepperton. The earl took the note, with closed eyes inhaled the aroma, and then he held it up to the light, and finally he read it, with Chris reading over his shoulder.

 

“So, Christine, what do you make of the note?” Chris took the note and studied it.  After looking it over, she still looked perplexed. Without waiting for an answer, the earl continued, “What I can tell you is that this note is real and comes from a reality of which we may only share a small portion. And it tells of this young lass’s increasing importance in the lives of those close to us. And it tells me one more thing – that Drachma himself is still in control of these events, both here and in Shepperton.”

 

Lonnie turned toward Brenda, and said, “OK, Brenda, now it’s your turn to explain. What do you know of that watermark? It would seem that the earl also knows…”

 

“While I was still an ICU nurse, I did have the occasion to care for our beloved earl (that is when I could take over from Carol here). And as he was making his recovery, I did find out some things that were kept from others. Though I’m quite certain Carol now knows, the earl did have with him a paper in his possession hidden within his things, and one day I was going through some of his stuff with him, before he was set to be moved out of our ICU, and came across this small folded piece of paper in among his things. And as I unfolded the piece, the earl suddenly grabbed my hand in his. I looked up to see that he had a look on his face like I’d never seen before. And so, I quickly folded the paper back, and handed it to him.

 

“But then he took the paper, unfolded it, and he next held it up to the light, and then he said to me, “Come, Brenda, and look upon on this paper.” And I did, and he pointed out the small watermark in the right lower part of the paper, and he then told me that small sign was very important, for it told the bearer that this was of significance, as it came directly from Drachma himself. I pretended knowledge of who Drachma was, and then I read what was written on the paper. It said that this was the earl of Shepperton, who had provided a place to live, and safety, and in return Drachma would do anything in his power to keep the earl alive and free from injury and illness. And further he mentioned someone named Craycroft, who had also sworn to do this.”

 

“So, ye do see,” commented the earl, “that it still be Drachma’s hand that is playing with all these lives. Aye, that it should still be, but I know not how much longer. And it would seem that young Tom is taking o’er the duties from his grandfather. But come, now, friends, and I do believe that Mistress Lonnie is correct in her choice of places to meet. And I do hope they might have some Carlisle’s Brew.”

 

 

 

Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two, Chapter Fifteen

Here is the next chapter in the series - enjoy!

 Chapter Fifteen

 

 

 

Hastily finishing his meal, the younger man turned toward his elder companion and stated, “It would seem, Master Guarneri, that our plan does need some force behind it. For I fear that Count Gregorio may have stumbled into a trap, and if so, then we are no better off for our efforts.”

 

Guarneri looked about, and noticing no one seemed interested, said, “So tell me, Emile, what is your proposal? It would seem that your own contacts with the king’s men could become singularly useful, no?”

 

“Aye that I do believe. And so, I have drafted this letter, to my patron, Salamanca, on the mainland. He is one of the king’s ablest knights, and it was he who originally sent me to Shepperton, to seek out what knowledge I could of this Master Robert, and to discredit him. And if that should not prove possible, to then send him word, and he would see to it that the king’s own machineries of war be put into motion.”

 

He pulled from his tunic a folded sheet of paper and handed it to the man seated across from him. Again, glancing about to be sure no one was witnessing the event, Guarneri took the letter and opened it to read.

 

My dear Salamanca,

Greetings from the Isle of Shepperton.

Thou art hereby notified that my time upon this island has assuredly been 

productive.  I have found much of this man, Master Robert of Ewe Ass.

He is most highly loved and respected upon this island, and now, it seems

that his fame has also reached the kingdom of Scotland. And, as thou hast

suspected, his ideas are truly dangerous, and he does need to be stopped.

He is presently sent toward the interior of our fair Isle, and he may be 

protected by a small, but mighty armed guard.

I do hereby request that ye send men of might, toward Killiburn, which is

Northeast of the island’s main port.

I shall attempt, through my own contact here, to have horses and

supplies of war at the ready for thy appearance.

Yours, faithfully

 

Emile Patronis

 

Having read it, Guarneri asked, “How soon can you have this epistle sent?”

 

“There be a two-masted ship, going to leave upon the morrow. And the captain is willing to have this letter delivered to the port of Liverpool, for a sum.”

 

“A sum? Just how much does he require? And is that anything that you have agreed to?”

 

“Three pounds is what he suggested. And my circumstances do not yet allow me to give him this amount.”

 

“I see, and for me providing this amount, I would assume that ye have something to offer…”

 

“Aye. For my own payment is also due upon arrival of the king’s men. Salamanca has told me so.”

 

“And do you trust this Salamanca?”

 

“Implicitly, aye.”

 

“Well, then, back to original question. If I were to loan ye the three pounds necessary, what would I get in return?”

 

“Why, I should think that ye’ll get the three pounds back, with interest…”

 

“Aye, that I would. But why don’t I take what you do have, until that time.”

 

Patronis thought for a moment, then sputtered, “But that would leave me with nothing but the clothes on my back. Destitute, and dependent…”

 

“Upon my good graces.” Guarneri finished his thought. “But worry not. For if ye do me bidding, I shall indeed take care of thy needs.”

 

The older man reached into his tunic, and pulled out his bag of coins, and pulling out three silver coins, laid them on the table. Then he reached across the table and held out his hand. Patronis fumbled for his own meager coin pouch and emptied it into the palm of his companion. Guarneri slid the silver coins across the table.

 

“Now go ye and pay for the letter to be sent. But first, let me seal it with my own seal, so that Master Salamanca shall know that ye do mean business.”

 

Patronis took the letter, with its red wax seal, placed it within his tunic, and he quickly exited, heading for the pier. As he left, he realized how glad he was that he had told Guarneri the inflated price of the letter, and he pocketed the one silver pound, with the other two in his money bag for payment of the passage on the ship. To be utterly dependent on that old man was not what he envisioned. Further, he was happy that he had used most of what monies he had gotten from LeGace to purchase the services of Tierney. He would definitely be needing him.

 

 

 

 

As Stefano led the former prisoners around the huge boulder, they could see ahead of them the extraordinary shape of Castle Kearney, as if growing out of the forest.

 

“What is this place? I’ve never seen anything like it.” Judy’s astonishment and enthusiasm spilled over to Alex.

 

“It looks like the home of giants! Is this where Drachma lives?”

 

“Indeed, now does it not?” Diane remembered seeing this place once as a young girl, about Alex’s age. “Nay, child, this be not Drachma’s forest home. Rather this place is called Castle Kearney, and it be the place where the Forest Guard are trained and do reside.”

 

They moved on up the path toward the great stone archway, and as they came under the arch, were greeted by a pair of guards in their green uniforms.

 

“Stefano, Martin! And Stoneheft! Welcome… and I extend Drachma’s welcome to all. Do come in, and please partake of your welcoming feast. Now, we did hear of yer coming, and of the precious persons here among you, and all should be made ready fer ye. Now, just leave yer horses with us, and Jeremiah an’ I shall make certain they’re cared for, and properly groomed.”

 

“Thanks to ye, David. And I must say that we are a most tired lot. Come now, and I shall introduce ye to the Lady Judy, her companions, and to Prince Diego.” 

 

Stefano dismounted, handed the reins to Jeremiah, and walked with David back to the cart. There, Alex and Diane were already out of the cart, while Judy and Diego were both struggling to get up and out of the back. David reached into the cart and helped Judy to her feet. Stefano likewise helped Diego.

 

“Friends, this is David, one o’ the Guard, and one of me oldest friends. He is here to welcome us to Castle Kearney. Now, David, this fine lady is the Lady Judy, wife of Master Robert…”

 

“I am entranced, m’lady.” He bowed his head to her. A slightly puzzled look appeared briefly on his face, and then disappeared.

 

“And this be Diane, wife to Cayman o’ the Castle Guard, and mother of Master Eustace, over yonder.”  David bowed his head to her as well. “And this be Prince Diego, who did arrive upon our isle, but was severely injured, and assisted in his recovery by this young lass, name of Alexandra.

 

“I am most pleased t’ meet ye, m’lord,” he said with another bow. “And ye, m’lass, whose face does shine with special intelligence, are also most welcome. And now, if ye’ll direct yer attention to this fine lass, name o’ Meara. She shall lead ye inside, and show ye to yer rooms, and the insides o’ this castle.”

 

“Meara curtsied, and uttered her greeting as well. “Come, now, an’ I shall show ye where ye’ll be stayin’. And it is wi’ pleasure that I welcome ye.”

 

And then she turned and bade the others to follow her into the castle. And what followed her was a conglomerate of persons from the young to the older, all sweaty, tired and stiff. Meara led Judy with care, and Diego held on to Alex, as they half stumbled in through the heavy doorway to the interior of the castle. Its magnificence, though less ostentatious that Shepperton Castle, was a sight, which to a person was at once welcoming, yet so plush as to take one’s breath. The long corridors, with their windows framed by heavy drapes, and the floor covered by richly redolent carpets, and the warm glow from all the lamps along the way brought about appreciative stares from the likes of Gilbert, Eustace and Chauncey, and a subtle, crooked smile from Diego.

 

After all the guests had been shown their quarters, and had a chance to clean up, they were taken by the servants toward the massive dining room, now arrayed with roast venison and vegetables, fragrant yeast rolls, bowls of fruit and flagons of ale. At the head of the table was David, and at his right sat Judy, with Diane. At his left were Alexandra and Diego. The rest of the places were filled by Eustace, Chauncey, Gilbert, Martin, Stoneheft, as well as assorted Forest Guard members. The guests were famished, and ate without speaking, and when second helpings were offered, they were eagerly downed as well. As they drank the ale from their flagons, their tumblers were quickly refilled by the servants all about. The sensations of warmth, satiety and comfort were felt by everyone with the exception of Judy.

 

With her own keen senses alerted, Alex came to Judy and asked, “Lady Judy, would it help you to know that yer Master Robert is aw’right?”

 

“Oh, Alex,” Judy replied with her eyes now overflowing with tears, “if you only could know such a thing.”

 

The youngster smiled. “Oh, Lady Judy, it is one o’ the things that I do know, as surely as I know ye’re havin’ a girl. Yer man is now in the company of Hermes an’ Kevin, and they be in Killiburn. So, don’ be afraid.”

 

Judy didn’t feel better. She was in yet another place where she was a stranger. And yes, this was a fine meal, and she did at least feel safe, with Diane at her side. But she was without Bob, Jeanne or Melchior, and was without her home. As reassuring as she had been to Bob when he expressed his anxieties, she did not feel reassured now. Inexplicably, she began to recall her old life, the life with all of its stresses, its loneliness, its own tensions; but medical care, which you could assume would be good to excellent, was at your disposal. And now here, in this time and place, with its needs, demands and its uncertainties, not to mention primitive medical care… suddenly she felt abandoned.

 

“Oh, Alex, what could you know of my worries? You are just six years old, and I wouldn’t want you to worry. But thank you.” She hugged the girl beside her.

 

“Lady Judy, me mum told me not to worry, and so I don’t.”

 

And then the realization hit her. Here was a six-year old, away from her mother, out with a band of strangers, as alone as any one of them, and who had faced real dangers, who was now providing solace to someone she just met days ago. Here she was, telling Judy not to be afraid. 

 

A tear rolled down her cheek, as Judy said, “Oh, Alex, I’m so sorry.”

 

“It does seem to me,” spoke up Chauncey, from across the table, “that this six-year-old lassie’s heart and her courage do appear to come from some source beyond our ken. And if ye recall, she told me of me own Sylvie, whom she says is now upon the island, and looks fer me. And ‘twould seem to me that whate’er yer needs, and whate’er me own needs, that someone knows, and is making known through this lass. Fer I’ve heard nothing from her lips that was not truth.”

 

“Truth,” broke in Gilbert, “aye she is one in touch with truth. Fer I tell ye she knew the truth about the blue light, though she had no experience of what it meant to me. And yet she knew – aye, she knew. She told me, and then what could I do but surrender? Fer I then knew, it was truth – so much more powerful than that which I had been following after. And so it be, m’lady, that Chauncey and I shall be on guard fer ye, e’en though yer Master Robert be not here.”

 

“Why thank you Gilbert, and also Chauncey. But it is not fear of any mortal threat which disturbs me - it is something else. Something over which none of us has control.”

 

“What is it, m’lady?” Asked Diane. “What d’ye fear? And is there anythin’ I could do fer ye?”

 

“I don’t know, Diane. And if I knew, what could anyone do?”

 

“What d’ye mean by that?”

 

“Well, I’ll explain if I can. You see, where I came from, in that time and place, when a woman gets pregnant, she typically sees an obstetrician (that’s a physician who specializes in taking care of pregnant women) or her family physician, and the doctor generally sees her and runs tests on her blood, and examines her with ultrasound, and does other tests to determine if the woman and her baby are healthy. And then the doctor follows along, during her pregnancy, and monitors her and her baby to see if all is well. And if there is something wrong, he may do things to reduce her risks, and the risks to her baby.”

 

“Is that what ye fear?” Asked Alex. “Fer to you comes Charlie Stephens, wi’ somethin’ from yer own time.”

 

What a strange pronouncement! Thought Judy. 

 

“Charlie Stephens?” That name rattled something memorable in her mind, which she couldn’t bring to the fore. “That’s a name I haven’t heard in a long time. Who is this Charlie Stephens?”

 

“That I know not. But what I know is that he is friends wi’ Janie, wi’ Lonnie, and also Marilyn.”

 

Judy’s head was spinning. Someone who knows Janie, Lonnie and also knows Marilyn! What could all of this mean? Her mind went back to Tom’s strange pronouncement to Bob, in which he said that Bob would need the help of Hermes, Alex, but also Marilyn. And now this Charlie Stephens. Who is he, and what could he possibly have that I would need? And all at once it hit her! Charlie Stephens, that smarmy little TV reporter. Could it be the same man? And what was he doing in their lives?

 

“I don’t know, Alex… I have some serious misgivings about this Charlie Stephens.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two, Chapter Fourteen

Here we have a chapter in which multiple forces begin to move, and in which Charlie Stephens is feeling as though he is swept along in the tidal wave of events in Shepperton.

 Chapter Fourteen

 

 

 

Charlie Stephens was hopelessly lost. He had stepped out from the deep woods into a field of tall grass. He stopped and caught his breath. Falma had left him some time back in the woods and had instructed him to continue to walk up the hill, and out of the forest, and then to go towards the sea. By the light of the moon, however, he could only guess where the sea lay. Behind him were the forest and the mountains, and he guessed that the sea was somewhere to the front, but he couldn’t see that far. A blanket of fog had covered the ground ahead. There seemed to be some lights within the distant fog, perhaps some sort of village, but there was no path or road of any sort to follow.

 

And so, he just stumbled forward toward the lights in the distance. And as he walked, he became enshrouded in the fog. It became too thick to see even his feet, but he could still make out the lights in the distance, and so he slowly and carefully went on. And he walked on for another hour, not daring to stop or to slow down. Finally, as he stumbled once more, he found himself on a roadway. This was easier going, as he could follow the ruts in the road, and so he walked along, a little faster, and up ahead he could now make out that there were indeed lights from houses. But off to his left, and down a steep hill, he could see a brighter light, but this was flickering, as if something was on fire. He stopped, and carefully went down the slope toward the burning building.

 

As he got down to the small shed, he noted the heat it put out was tremendous. He looked around, and saw no one else around, which he thought strange. He looked again and noticed that he stood very close to the ocean. He could hear the ocean, and he believed he could just make out the water’s edge.

 

So, what am I doing here, wherever here is? I’ve made it to the ocean, just as Falma instructed. And here I am with some kind of burning shed, with no one about. And there are no instructions here.

 

Then at the edge of his vision, he saw something moving. It was at the opening to the shed. He stared in horror for a moment, then, not thinking he rushed toward the burning hut. There at the bottom of the small doorway, was a child, trying desperately to escape the inferno. Despite the intensity of the fire, Charlie bent over, grasped the child, and pulled him to freedom. He dragged the somnolent boy away, toward the ocean. His clothes and hair were singed, but he was not otherwise severely burned, but what was apparent was the large stain of blood on his abdomen.

 

“I… I thank ye…sire.” The boy was weekly able to say, before lapsing into unconsciousness.

 

Oh, terrific, thought Charlie. Now what do I do? Where am I supposed to take this kid? And heaven knows if they’ve got hospitals here. OK, Falma, what have you got me into now?

 

Charlie looked around, but in the night, with the fog, he couldn’t see much. But staying down here was not going to accomplish anything. He looked at the young boy, and noticed, that even in the faint light of the moon, the boy had been wounded, had been stabbed in the abdomen. But he was alive, and somehow, that mattered – mattered very much. He couldn’t decide what to do, but eventually decided to try to take the boy up toward the village. He reached down, and picked up the sleeping boy, and then walked up the steep slope toward the lights of the village. The way had been hard enough before, but now, walking uphill, carrying the dead weight of the unconscious youth, in the immense darkness, was so much more than he had ever done in his usually sedentary existence. He found that he could only make it for a few minutes, before stopping to rest.

 

They finally made it up to the roadway, with the lights of some village ahead. He stopped again, before going on. The way was now a bit easier. As they got closer, the youth began to rouse in his arms. Charlie stopped again, and breathlessly asked the boy, “Can you tell me where I should take you, son?”

 

The youth stirred, and he tried to say something. Charlie leaned in closer to his face, and he said, “Try again. I’m not from here. Tell me where to take you.”

 

“The girl,” uttered the boy, “the girl said… take me to the inn… said they… would know.”

 

“The girl – do you know her name?” Charlie did not know why he even asked.

 

“Aye. She said… her name… was Maggie.”

 

 

 

 

 

“Ah, Tom, do come in,” said Craycroft, His face registered a mixture of anxiety and relief. “It is so good to see you. And please take a seat. There is much we need to discuss.”

 

Along with Craycroft in the dining room, were Kerlin, Cayman, Rust and the earl of Derrymoor. They had just eaten their early breakfast, and all looked toward Tom with eager anticipation.

 

“Indeed, and I have much to report, as I am certain you do as well.” He picked a chair next to Derrymoor and sat down. All the eyes in the room were looking at him with eagerness. “My friends I am so glad to see you here and am so grateful for the presence of our esteemed earl among us now. Before I begin, though, I must ask of you what has happened. I was appraised of some activity by the birds, but I fear that my knowledge is very incomplete.”

 

“As you say, my son,” began Craycroft. “And might I say that it did grieve me to send you as I did by necessity, to the whim of forces over which none here have any control. And I am grateful for your presence once again among us. As to what has happened, let me begin by showing you the note which I received in the middle of the night from none other than our Master LeGace. And if it means anything, it was pinned to the door with this.” Craycroft slid the knife over to Tom, who looked at it with care.

 

“It is one of Tierney’s, no?”

 

“It is, Tom.” 

 

“Then I believe that we should have a little talk with our blacksmith… Now, let me see the note that you received.”

 

Rust handed him the piece of paper. Tom took the paper, and as he read it, his face turned dark. He then put down the paper. He said nothing for a moment. He swallowed, but still said nothing, as all looked at him.

 

Eventually, he spoke. “My friends, this would appear to be an open declaration of war!” His fists were clenched. “I believe we can treat it as nothing less. Now Master LeGace has an armed force of many men, either here upon the island, or close by. And I would surmise that, in addition to our men, the earl of Derrymoor has himself brought men with him.”

 

“Aye, that is true, Tom,” answered the earl. “I have with me fifty of my finest fighters. I knew that I should be needing them, though I had no idea of what this scoundrel had in mind. And now that I know some of what he plans, it makes me ill at ease to realize just what we are up against. It is now his evil nature is so boldly apparent in this note. Now let me ask Craycroft, just when it was that you did receive this note?”

 

“The night before last,” Craycroft replied.

 

“Then we have but four days to truly plan something, for I would like to have to have everything we have planned in place at least one day before… May I see the note, Tom?”

 

Tom slid the note over to the earl. He looked it over. He then said, “true to form, he believes that he is playing against an inferior class of persons, based upon our care and concern for those close to us, and those under our care. He believes, that since he cares naught for anyone else, he may make the rules, which we will then by our antiquated sense of obligation, obey.”

 

“As you say,” said Rust, “the man has given us no indication that he cares a whit for anyone else. Nor does he say in his note, that even if we were to abide by his demands, that he would turn over Melchior and Lisa to us unharmed.”

 

“I fear you are correct, good councilor,” said Tom. “And that is precisely why I have been sent to the winds of time, in this most extreme case. And that is why I do return with much to tell.” He paused, but then continued. “But, pray tell, what else do you know, and what else have you heard which might help us make sense of our troubled times?”

 

Rust continued. “As to the Council, I did take them this note, and to a man they thought as you did, that this was an act of treachery, and of war. Councilors Genet and Fitzgibbon in particular said that they would get word to their own houses, and to see if any of their men and horses could be made ready for the coming conflict. And they both swore an oath that they would do whatever they could to protect Lord Craycroft, and our island.”

 

“That is most welcome news, indeed,” said Craycroft, “yet it does little, I fear, to alleviate our immediate threat. But of that, I also suspect that our Master LeGace, though he does not care for the lives of anyone else, nevertheless, sees at the very least that he maintains a strategic advantage over us by keeping the hope afloat that our persons yet live.”

 

“True, true,” said Derrymoor. “And I know something of this man, and his ways. As long as he sees that his game plan is being taken seriously, he would be unlikely to kill Melchior or Lisa. So, that makes it even more imperative that we find out, as soon as we are able, the whereabouts of his prisoners.”

 

“And I would assume that you have some thoughts on that matter…”

 

Derrymoor nodded.

 

“Well, good,” continued Craycroft. “But now, I do believe it might be wise to let young Tom in on new developments, especially after having had our dinner last evening, and with our guests, and what they have to tell us. Would you enlighten us all, then, Kerlin, as to what we have learned, and from whom?”

 

“Of course, m’lord.” Kerlin spoke, “Now it happens that we have two visitors come to us from Scotland, both are alchemists, and both upon hearing of our academy, decided to come and be students. And they both came here by way of Killiburn, where their ship landed, and being very observant souls, were able to provide us with important details of just what was developing with Guarneri and Patronis…”

 

“Oh, excellent!” said Tom. “I had wondered about them myself.”

 

“Well, it would appear that the two of them were on hand when Count Gregorio landed with his ship, also in Killiburn. And though they were originally working with LeGace, have now joined up with Gregorio in his plans, whatever they might be.”

 

“I shall tell you more anon,” indicated Tom, “but, pray, do continue with your observations.”

 

“Well, Tom,” Craycroft continued, “it seems we should also tell you about Jeremy, Rowan and Allen of Burridge.”

 

“My word, that’s a name I’ve not heard in a long time…”

 

“Nor I. But it seems that this old man, who acted all those years ago as the eyes and ears for your grandfather, became the one who did become the same for our own Rowan and Jeremy. For I had sent them to spy for our troops on Dunnigan’s Isle in pursuit of Melchior and Lisa. As it turns, he was the last of our own to see the two of them, as he was savagely beaten, and before he did swoon, he did see them taken from the hunting hut on the isle. And he does believe that they have been taken to one of Master LeGace’s ships. Now Rowan and Jeremy did bring the old man back to us, injured yet alive. And I shall take you to see the old man when we are done here. He is in the clinic, resting his wounds.”

 

“Aye, I would fancy that. For it seems the old man might be able to tell us even more of what we need to know.”

 

“But now, pray tell, young man,” Rust spoke, “what have ye been doing these days? For it seems that much of what we shall need you do bring from across the breach of time. Is that not so? And are ye able to tell of Master Robert and his pregnant bride?”

 

“Most assuredly, Councilor. For it is an adventure I have undertaken, unlike any before. What I am able to say is that Master Robert is presently well, accompanied by Hermes and Kevin, but has been captured by the remnant of Gregorio’s men. And they were headed down the mountain towards Killiburn. And they be pursued by none other than Master Fausto, and some of my men. In addition, I should add, within the company of the men is none other than Lady Marilyn Gilsen, the wife from the other age of Master Robert.”

 

At this a hush fell on the room, as if everyone had just swallowed something hard. All eyes turned toward the young man in disbelief.

 

Craycroft broke the silence. “Oh, and can you tell us, son, how this all came about? I had heard that this Lady Marilyn was now among us, but to be in the rough company of your forest guard, on a mission as perilous as this?”

 

A slight smile broke across Tom’s face. 

 

“Well, my friends, t’would now appear to be the time to tell you of my traversing across the fabric of time, and to tell you of two rather remarkable persons I have brought across, with the aid of none other than Master Falma. Are ye ready for the tale?” Tom looked around the room and noticed the eye all on him. He then began his story.

 

He told them of how he initially went through the fabric of time, to visit, and on the way, came upon Falma. Initially, he had just observed the doings of Marilyn and Charlie, and noted the close-knit bond between them, and also noticed the strain of their relationship, related to Marilyn’s conviction that she had more to do with Robert, somewhere in Shepperton. And he told them of her personality, much like a willow tree, that would bend with the winds of misfortune, but which, at its core was unbreakable. And he told them of the earl of Shepperton, yes, very much alive, and now married to one of the women who nursed him back to health, and whose health had been guarded by Falma, through the ministrations of Marilyn Gilsen and Charles Stephens. 

 

He went on to tell of Charlie’s relationship with Janie and Earl, the parents of Joshua, who had been cared for over the years by Master Robert, and how Falma had appointed Janie to be the voice across the chasm of time, as she herself was to be leaving the world due to illness. And he also explained how Janie’s life became the force by which Marilyn and Charlie Stephens would come across the great chasm. And lastly, he explained that a girl named Amanda, who bore the same physical relationship to Alexandra as Joshua bore to himself, had chosen the same role herself for the return of Marilyn and Charlie, if it should come to that.

 

“Now, Tom,” said Craycroft, “it would seem to me that you have, indeed, been playing with the hands of fate. And if I recall, those hands do not do what is our bidding, but rather we often do theirs, unknowingly.”

 

“Aye, you are right, m’lord. But you did not become knowledgeable by happenstance. Rather, it would appear that you have been reading. Am I right?”

 

“So it would seem, my son…”

 

“Lord Craycroft!” The voice came from the doorway. “M’lord, you are needed at once in the Sick Bay!”

 

“All right, page. Now Tom, and Sir Derrymoor, why do you not come with me to Sick Bay. I do have the feeling that your presence may, in fact, be vital.”

 

As they left, Craycroft stooped over and got his walking cane and his colorless, shapeless hat, and then led them out through the hallway, and down the winding stairway.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two, Chapter Thirteen

Here is the next chapter from Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two. This is Chapter Thirteen, which takes place throughout Shepperton, and involves a number of persons, and a number of their concerns, and is another set-up chapter for what is to come.

Chapter Thirteen

 

 

 

 

Craycroft’s meeting with Kerlin and Jeanne was interrupted by the sound of a page rapping at his door. Craycroft turned toward the door, as the page timidly stepped in.

 

“Well, what is it, laddie?” He said, with obvious irritation.

 

“Pardon, Lord Craycroft… But it be three persons just come – they’re with Master Cayman, sire. Shall I tell them to wait outside?”

 

“With Cayman, eh?” His manner abruptly changed. “Nay, lad. Let them come in. We shall see them now.”

 

The red-faced youth disappeared briefly, and ushered in Jeremy, Rowan and Allen, all looking weary beyond description, with Cayman at the rear.

 

Cayman spoke, “M’lord, I hesitate to burst in on your meeting, but these three persons just came up to the castle, brought by one o’ the guards from the wharf. And I believe what they have to tell could not wait.”

 

“Welcome Jeremy and Rowan, but who is this with you? For I have not had the occasion to meet with him before today.”

 

“Sire,” It was Kerlin who spoke, “this man is none other than Allen of Burridge. And I say, it is with honor that I welcome you to the castle.”

 

“Allen of Burridge?” Craycroft said with some awe, and got up, and went toward the old man, and assisted him to a chair. “Oh, I have heard of you, but alas, our ways have never crossed. It is with the utmost pleasure that I do greet you now.”

 

He turned to the page and said, “Now, lad, get you to sick bay anon, and bring one of the senior attendants back with you, and with all appropriate balms and bandages. Tell them that Craycroft is in dire need of his services. Now, get ye hence!”

 

The page rushed out to do his master’s bidding.

 

Turning his attention to the two youths, Craycroft said, “As it would seem that you do bring news from Dunnigan’s Isle, and we are in need of such news, do sit down, and tell us what you know of the fates of Master Melchior, as well as the young lass.

 

“What I may tell ye thus far,” began Rowan, “is that the two of them are still alive, or were when we left the isle…”

 

“Oh, what a relief!” exclaimed Jeanne, who had been quietly holding her breath in the background. “It would seem that, at the very least is good news.”

 

“Oh, aye, m’lady,” answered Rowan. “But as to just where they might be, that I canna’ say. But this man may be able to.”

 

“Well, now, good man,” she said as she got up went over to him. “You do bring some good news, which I do need to hear.” She gently put her arms around him. But first we do need to attend to your wounds. For you are, indeed, precious to us. And let me tell you that Melchior is my husband, and I have been distraught ever since he was taken away.”

 

Allen looked up to the lady and smiled feebly. “Many thanks, me good lady. Ye’re but the most gracious thing. Now, as t’ the whereabouts o’ yer man…”

 

At this, Craycroft and Kerlin both leaned in closer.

 

“It is not with certainty that I say this, but I do believe that yer husband and the young lassie are now off the island, and most likely in some boat under the command o’ one Master LeGace’s captains.”

 

“A boat?” asked Kerlin. “D’ye know - is it many, and what types, and where they be?”

 

“Ah, nay, good Kerlin, that I canna’ say. Only thing I can tell ye is that they must carry a hundred men. And I say this because o’ what I heard from the men what captured an’ beat me.”

 

“And for that, my heart does ache for you,” Craycroft said in the kindest tone. “Could you but tell us did you actually see this Master LeGace, or was it just his men?”

 

“If ye but ask, did I see the devil his-self ? Then, sire, I would have to say aye, I did. For it could be none other, I tell ye. He was but in the buildin’ no more’n a minute, and he told his men to tie me to the post, and to beat me, but not to kill me. For he wanted t’ leave a message. An’ afore he walked out o’ the hut I heard him tell his men to take the prisoners to the boat. And as they were abeatin’ me, an’ afore my eyesight went black, I saw them, the tall man and the little lass…”

 

Jeanne sighed, and through her tears said, “whether he is the devil or not, he most certainly is in his employ, and we must do all we are able to thwart his plans. He must be made to pay back for all he has done. Oh, Kerlin, I hope you are able to muster forces, such that this demonic thing may be expunged forever.”

 

“To that I would say I have given my word four years ago, yet it is only now that the opportunity has again arisen. And to that I would add the arrival of the earl of Derrymoor would appear to be fortuitous, and also offers even more hope.”

 

“Aye, that it would,” added Craycroft. “And, now it would appear that my lad from our clinic is here. Aaron, would you assist me in caring for this man’s wounds. Let us then get him to sick bay, where we are better able to evaluate his other wounds and provide him the care he needs.”

 

 

 

 

Judy’s apprehension was palpable. Despite assurances from the giant man and the rest of his troupe that they would find Bob and bring him back safely, she could not feel secure. His absence at her side now felt like a painful, dark emptiness. She retreated into her own internal quiet space, as the cart rattled along the path. Inside the cart with her were Diane, Alex and Diego. Even as their circumstances were now quite different in that they were no longer prisoners, she still felt imprisoned by her own isolation. 

 

In her quiet desperation she recalled an episode in her younger days. Many years, centuries ago, she had been with Greg, that gorgeous, charming hothead. She had fallen in love so completely that memories of him still hurt. But he had been so irascible and unpredictable, that when she became pregnant, she never told him. She broke up with him suddenly and painfully, and then moved to Ohio, without even leaving a forwarding address. After moving to Ohio, she quickly found employment at Memorial Hospital. She became busy right away and was willing to work more than her share of overtime, as she had nothing else. It was while working in the CCU that she had first met Bob Gilsen. He was quiet, reserved and polite, but he seemed distant, and unapproachable, until one night, when they sat down at the small table in the CCU, having just completed the resuscitative attempt on one of their extremely ill patients. She became intensely nauseated and had to rush to the bathroom. When she came back out and sat down, she noticed Bob staring at her.

 

“What is it?” she asked self-consciously.

 

He continued to stare at her with genuine concern, and then asked, “I’m sorry, but are you pregnant?” That took her by surprise. She was so surprised that she opened up to him, and in a torrent of words let him know of her recent troubles and her break-up, and her pregnancy, now about four months. He just listened and asked if there was anything he could do for her.

 

“No,” she replied, “Just tell me what I owe you for your therapy services.”

 

“Just take good care of yourself and that baby,” was his answer. And no more was said then. And no more was said ever by Dr. Gilsen about that encounter, yet he must have noticed that she did not blossom in her pregnancy. He never knew about her miscarriage a month after that, and through the years the episode was never brought up.

 

I wonder if he thought that I’d had an abortion, she asked herself. I’m definitely going to ask him next time we’re alone. She cried silently in the cart. That unfinished business weighed heavily on her shoulders, especially now.

 

Alex was talking quietly to Diego, who began to finally relax, and as she talked on soothingly, he fell asleep, with his head now on Diane’s shoulder. Diane had sensed Judy’s unease, but did not know what to do or to say, and the cart lumbered on down the path, the occupants now silent.

 

Outside the cart, the procession moved on. There were still some on horseback, and there were still prisoners, but the roles were reversed, as was the direction of travel. The procession moved eastward along the ridge, and then turned down into the depths of the forest.

 

At the back of the group, Tom was speaking with Justinian and Stefano, and talking of his plans. As they came up to the river, he said, “Now, Justinian, you must take the prisoners, and most of the guard with you, Stefano must ride as escort to the others, and be certain to take them all to Kearney. I do not anticipate that you shall meet any more resistance, but you have great fighters among the men, if you do. Now they are again equipped to defend. And be most careful with the Lady Judy, as she is close to delivering. She does have Diane with her, yet not Master Robert. And again, I would note that although I see no particular problems, my heart does tell me that there be matters of great consequence to do with her.”

 

“And ye… ye shall go whence?” Stefano asked.

 

“I shall travel in haste to the castle, for my messengers tell me that there be great doings, which may be affecting us all. And be certain to tell Lady Judy that I was with you.”

 

“Well, then, ye may trust us to do right by ye.”

 

Tom went ahead and spoke with the guard, and the units split up, as one group went toward the village, the other group went further into the forest, and Tom took off across the river toward the castle. The night then swallowed up the participants.

 

 

 

 

Fausto, with Marilyn and his select group of guardsmen, were hurrying down the mountain slope toward the village of Killiburn, when he suddenly stopped. The others stopped too. He peered down into the black distance. He pointed ahead but said nothing. The guard nodded, and then he took off with another, and made their way round about. Fausto moved forward, but at a slower pace. Marilyn was afraid to say anything at all, and just kept her horse close behind Fausto’s. 

 

Up ahead they could hear sounds of scuffling. As Fausto and Marilyn got closer, she could see that the two men had captured some older man and held him at the point of the sword. Fausto came up to the men, and he smiled in recognition.

 

“My word, if it isn’t ol’ Samuel, indeed! Now if ye’d be so good as to tell us what ye’ve been doing up here in the forest. And let me give ye a little bit of advice – that ye had best be tellin’ the truth to us. We do have swords, and me men can use them.”

 

The older man turned slightly, then he smiled somewhat sheepishly. “Well, Fausto, I was followin’ the group o’ warriors what ye and yer men just finished off. That is, exceptin’ for the small group what just left anon.”

 

“Very well, but please tell us just who you’re workin’ fer. I know ye’re not doin’ this fer yer own amusement.”

 

Samuel hesitated just a moment, then he suddenly felt the sword touch his neck. He swallowed, and said, “if ye must know, I be workin’ fer Master Guarneri.”

 

“Hmm,” said Fausto, “this does not surprise me, no, not at all. Fer it was him ye worked fer years ago, was it not?”

 

“Aye, that I did.”

 

“Well, let me tell ye, that fer keepin’ ye alive, I would ask that ye accompany us down to the village, and that when we get there, ye shall remain with us, and assist us in any way I deem worthy. Is that clear?”

 

Samuel knew he was trapped, and answered, “Aye, that be clear.”

 

Fausto quickly sent the two guards on down the mountain, after the party. Next he took Samuel’s knife, and then tied his hands behind his back. And then, as if they had all the time in the world, introduced Marilyn to Samuel, before again heading on down the mountain, with his two remaining guards, his prisoner, and Marilyn.

 

Marilyn hardly said a word, but she was obviously distressed. That she was introduced as the lady Marilyn, only made her more uncomfortable. But what got under her skin was Fausto’s seeming nonchalance about his task, and he seemed not the least bit worried about Bob. But then, she knew none of the rules here in this new land, in this old century, and knew none of what she was supposed to do.