Cornerstone Deep Echoes

I was asked by Charlene A. Wilson to present this blog post today. We'd like to thank Sandra Cox for this opportunity.

I was asked to speak to you about… *looks around at the blog readers and flushes* quirks and odd traits of the characters of the Chronicles of Shilo Manor.

Ahe m. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Jamesuranton Lorus Tru Shilomacj. I'm known as James in Cornerstone Deep, however. Although, of course we don't go by our full names in our own dimension either. *fidgets and mumbles under his breath* I must agree with Cole. This isn't as easy as Charlene said it would be.

Ahem. *squares his shoulders*

What's quickly becoming the most talked about quirk of the Shilo Manor characters is Cole's love of butter. It was introduced in book one, Cornerstone Deep, when Cole and I are talking in the breakfast nook. But this short clip cemented it to his personality. Cole was very worried about getting Anna away from Lord Dressen and time wasn't moving fast enough toward our planned attempt. He, uh, took it out on the mantel clock. Emanating Vincent's destructive behavior, he caused a miniature statue of Meridian's capitol tower to pierce the face

Cornerstone Deep blurb:

It's their nature - long lives and rebirth. They're from another dimension, one gifted with advance abilities, but they serve in Cornerstone Deep. They're the Wizards of Shilo Manor.

They outlive the mortals of this realm by thousands of years, and when it comes to love the cruel fact is reinforced. Reincarnation doesn't exist on this plane. They lose their wives to death with no hope of reuniting. Yet they continue to accept others for whatever time they have together. Save for Cole. His love for his last wife still burns in his soul four centuries after her death.

When the service they render to the noblemen of Cornerstone Deep brings him face to face with Anna, something unexpected happens. In a realm of silent souls, hers calls to him. He responds with a kiss—one that joined with the spell of servitude she inhaled, binds her soul.

Breaking ancient covenants, angering the lords, and bringing the gods' wrath upon him, Cole tries desperately to undo his wrong and free his love—despite the determination of the nobleman to keep her.

~ * ~

My life is a mirage of endless time. But you in this moment engulf me, rivet my mind, encompass my soul. (Cole Shilo)

Cornerstone Deep - excerpt

As Anna emerged from Cantrell Artisan, she shivered in the spring air. The industrial West Side's sulfuric odor rode the breeze from across town, and the fragrant fire flickered out. She cradled the holder between the large granite lion paws that sat beside the steps. It fit nicely. She sniggered at the sight. Kyle Dressen's artistic contribution to the sphinx.

She stepped onto the sidewalk and looked around. Humor faded. Vapor loomed over the empty streets like phantoms gathering warmth from the asphalt. She briskly rubbed her sleeves. The slight warming did nothing to ease her insecurity. Street lights blinked on but offered little comfort as the newscaster's announcement flooded her mind. "After much deliberation, the new curfew of 2024 has been set into place. Lord Kyle Dressen, Grand Marshal of the courts, announced the bill's passing, and urges all to adhere as strict measure will be taken to ensure vandalism of the East Side is eradicated."

What a ridiculous notion. The impoverished East Side getting aid from the lawmakers. Yet now, unease filled her. Her co-workers' gossip on the matter didn't help her anxiety. An apprehensive tone caught her voice as she repeated the warning. "Curfew breakers will never be seen again." Her whisper sent mist through the chill. She wished she hadn't spoken.

Anna hurried across the open court and down an adjacent street. Awnings rustled in the wind. Neon signs that once invited late-night commerce hung dead behind barred windows. Her rushed steps echoed through the air.

She looked to the sky. A blanket of stars covered the firmament. She'd worked too late. Again. "God, I'm not going to make it."

Her steps quickened, and she caught her breath as she approached the shortcut through the park. The wide corner entrance stood closed, the ancient stone griffin perched high on the gateway glaring down at her. She shook the bars with disbelief. "When do they ever lock Shilo Park?" Scanning the long gates that fortified the urban green, fear clutched her stomach.

"Anna."

She whipped around. The sound was like a whisper to her mind yet clear as if spoken. Her gaze intensified as she studied the shadowed pavement. Beneath the dim light of a street lamp, dense smoke billowed, taking the form of three men. Her throat clenched. "What…in…the…world?" She spun around and ran.

"There's no use in running."