Here is the new start of Book Three. There is more to come!

 

 

 

 

Shepperton’s Sacrifice

Heir of Drachma

Book Three

 

Chapter One

 

 

 

Charlie Stephens was sitting down with Alex and was perplexed. His circumstances had changed again–this whole thing with Diego, with Alex, Judy and her baby, Bob and his relationship to Marilyn, and his own decision – just what was he supposed to do? He felt like he was floating in a large body of water, in a constant state of uncertainty and could not see any landmarks to help him find his way.

 

“Tell me, Alex,” he said, “just what does all this mean? Where am I to fit in with you all?” Why was he talking to this six-year-old? How did he expect her to be able to answer the voices of doubt?

 

“Why don’ ye tell me about a bit more o’ yer past life? What was yer job, an’ how did it change the others around ye?” She said all this with a knowing touch in her voice, one which said he was in a safe place.

 

“Well, my job was that of a reporter. That is, I would seek out stories of what other people were doing, and then talk about them on television….”

 

“Television?”

 

“Ah dear Alex, television is one of those things that, if I were to show you, you would say, “that’s magic.” It’s a way of telling people all around your country, and even around the world, of what you have discovered. Mind you, TV as we call it can be useful, it can be beautiful but in certain hands it can also become an instrument of evil.”

 

“Do go on. Tell me more of this magic. And tell me of yer job, an’ how you kept it beautiful an’ not evil.”

 

“And how do you know that I did that?”

 

“Oh, Charlie! Ye don’ need to ask. Fer I can see yer soul is na’ made o’ such. Why don’ ye tell me of things that ye made which were beautiful.”

 

“I can tell you about two TV specials which I put together. The first you know about. It was the investigation of abused children, and it involved Francine. That one took me a while to recover from. I had actually withdrawn into my own shell after the governor gave me a special commendation, and when I found out what a slime bag he really was. Then about four years ago, I was just going about my business when I stumbled upon this story of Dr. Gilsen and nurse Judy Morrison. I saw in this an opportunity to uncover a story of infidelity and possibly worse. Boy was I wrong! Uncovering that story brought me into contact with Marilyn Gilsen, and since then Janie and Earl Crabtree, Christine Lewinsky, Carlo Vincente and the earl of Shepperton. I decided to tell the world the story I had stumbled upon and how pursuing it changed even me, and I brought it to television. It was this special which truly altered my life – this… and Marilyn Gilsen.”

 

Charlie paused, took a drink of his tea. He reached into his jacket pocket and took out his notebook. As he did so the drawing fell out. 

 

Alex noticed. “May I see what ye’ve got there, Charlie?”

 

Silently, he took the drawing and handed it to Alex who studied it carefully. After looking it over, she smiled and said, “This is the work of Janie, no?”

 

“Of course it is, and somehow you knew about it and what it represented. She made it without having seen the castle or any drawing of it. It makes me believe there is something or someone else involved which has been steering me toward some sort of grand concussion here upon this island. Isn’t there?”

 

Alex simply smiled in answer. “Do go on, Charlie fer I think that ye’re getting’ close t’ the heart o’ the matter.”

 

Charlie took another sip from his tea, then resumed. “As I was saying, Alexandra, this little notebook is where I keep all the things which I hear from those I interview. It is their own words and descriptions of events. If you would like you may see it, if you can read it.” Then he hesitated. “Can you read, Alex?”

 

“Nay, I canna’ read. But I am able to tell the truth of the matter if ye do read me some of what ye’ve written in yer book. Are there any more pi’tures?”

 

“No. No more pictures I’m afraid. But here’s an example of something that I wrote down. While still in my time, I was able to record the words of the earl of Shepperton. He was giving me some advice before my coming here. He based it on his own memories and experience, and he told me whom to trust and whom to be wary of. I must say his advice has been valuable indeed. And no, he didn’t mention you. He did talk of Drachma, Tom, Kerlin, and Craycroft. Then he mentioned Falma. All of these he said would not steer me wrong. But he did also mention Antoine LeGace, and he said in no way was I to trust him and I should avoid him, if at all possible. He also indicated that this LeGace fellow has done some terrible things, which your prince confirmed, and that LeGace was trying to take over this island and would stop at nothing to get his own way.”

 

“Tell me, Charlie, is all that in yer notes?”

 

“Oh, it certainly is, Alex. I wouldn’t go anywhere without this little notebook. Now, you tell me something that I’m curious about. Tell me about this fellow Craycroft. Just anything you can tell me about who he is, where he came from, and how a healer became lord of this island. For it seems that his story will tell me a lot about this island and what makes it so special.”

 

“What I can tell ye is that he began as a page o’ the old earl, back in the day. It was me great gran’father, Cartho who was the castle’s own healer, who noticed what a smart lad this fellow named Craycroft was, an’ he took ‘im aside an’ taught ‘im all the things ‘bout bein’ a healer.”

 

“Extraordinary, my little one! To think that he started out as a page, as did Tom himself, and now to see where they both got in their own lifetimes. It seems no wonder then, why the likes of LeGace, and even the king of England would want to get this little island for themselves.”

 

“Aye, but it be more likely that they’re both after the pots, or so me Mum tol’ me.”

 

“The pots…?”  

 

So, Charlie got the story of the wondrous pots of Shepperton from none other than little Alexandra, who pointed out that he was now part of their story, having been so adopted. Now it was soon up to him to decide the fate of the other adoptees.

 

“Let me ask you, Alex,” he said, digging in his pocket. He pulled out his small amulet and handed it to her. “What could you possibly tell me about this? This was something I got from Janie before she died.  The earl of Derrymoor and Craycroft both saw it and they both thought it was special, but neither one said anything more. Janie indicated that its meaning was something I would find out about after I got here….”

 

“So now you wan’ me t’ tell ye its true meanin’. Is that right?” She looked again at the small scrimshaw piece in her hand, held it up toward the light and handed it back to Charlie.

 

“I guess so.”

 

“What I’m about t’ tell ye is that this broach let ye come to us. In your own world there are pow’rful people and pow’rful things who you don’ even know about. An’ here only a few people who do know, but who are only sometimes able to use ‘em. They’re the special ones, like Falma, an’ Drachma, but also Master LeGace. In their hands these special things an’ special people can do things no ord’nery person can do.”

 

“What about you?”

 

“It’s ‘cause o’ Drachma an’ Falma. That be all I can tell ye fer now.”

 

Charlie was silent and took another drink of his tea, thinking about what this little girl had told him. Then he thought again of Janie and Falma; how Falma had said from the back seat of his car that he needed to go see Janie, that she had something for him. Before she died, she handed him the broach and kissed him. And ever since then he had been swept along in this rushing current of time. Then the thought hit him – the coin, the drachma!

 

“Charlie,” said Alex quietly. “It looks t’ me like ye thought of something.”

 

“Indeed, I did. I just thought of the little coin, a drachma, now in Lonnie’s possession. How it had been such a significant item for Marilyn. It seemed that the coin had a mind of its own, and significance beyond just a beautiful token. Was it something like this broach?”

 

“It sounds like somethin’ ye’ll have t’ ask Tom about. I know he’d like t’ talk t’ ye about that.”

 

“It seems to me, my little one, that you do know things, yet are only telling me part of the story. Is that true?”

 

“There are some things I am able t’ tell ye, but there be other things too deep fer me t’ see. Things that ye must find fer yerself. There be danger….”

 

“Danger?” Charlie thought for a moment. “Of course, there’s danger.”

 

 

 

 

Gathered inside the gate of Castle Kearney at sunrise, the group consisted of Chauncey, Stoneheft, Gilbert, Eustace, and the newly recovered Diego. To that motley assortment was added Justinian for the purpose of security. Their plan was to travel to Shepperton Castle and to meet with Craycroft and Kerlin. They were all aware of the threat posed by LeGace and wanted to be helpful in any way possible. Each had been given a sword and a smaller knife. Justinian knew that this group had been tested and seasoned by their recent history.

 

Prince Diego was significantly healed and knew his expertise would be useful to Shepperton and felt it his responsibility to be where he could be of the most use. He felt that Alexandra should remain in Kearney with Judy, Diane and Charlie. He had sat down with her and explained his thinking the prior evening. To his surprise, Alex understood perfectly. She knew that her prince would be necessary elsewhere, and she had been there for him when he needed her the most. And beside that she had Charlie to “deal with.” Diego smiled at this little girl, reached down, kissed her forehead and said, “you go with God, my Alexandra. You are one of His special angels.”

 

She responded by giving him a warm hug and whispering to him, saying, “I’ll always love you, my prince!”

 

Diego was remembering all that fondly, as he said to the men assembled there, “Come now, my comrades, we must be going. I do believe Craycroft and all Shepperton await.”

 

Justinian agreed, checked his supplies, saluted the guards at the gate, and led his men out into the darkness of the forest. 

 

 

 

 

Kerlin stared straight ahead at the small but imposing figure of Antoine LeGace. Behind Kerlin, in a semicircle, were the guards and Leonardo. 

 

“So, Master Kerlin, do you have with you the money and the note?”

 

“Aye, I have.” The large Forest Guard reached into his tunic, and produced a thick envelope, which he threw down onto the table. As he did so, he could see, at the edge of his vision a brief glimpse of the waif, with her features giving off a faint blue light. He turned his head toward her, only to find that she had disappeared into the evening, but in her place was a faint hint of the forest and the aroma of newly turned earth.

 

LeGace took the envelope, and with his knife he cut through the seal, and within there was a folded sheet of paper. LeGace opened the paper and read the note which said:

            

            Master LeGace,

 

            This shall be our response to thy list of demands:

 

            Firstly, thou hadst not properly advised the ruling authority of the Island of Shepperton.

            Being a senior member of the ruling Council, I shall tell thee that it be myself that thou

            shouldst speak with in matters which concern our Island and its governance. Thy method

            of delivery, having taken the life of one of our own esteemed persons, we have found to

            be most intolerable, and we consider it a matter most execrable!

 

            Secondly, we of the ruling Council do declare thy requests are therefore null and void.

 

            Thirdly, thy actions are considered an act of war, so be ye forewarned, and thy life to

            be forfeit!

 

            Sworn hereby,

 

            Master Rust

            Master Genet

            Master Silvo

            Master Fitzgibbon

            Master Donovan

 

LeGace’s face was a mask of evil, with a most malicious smile as he said to Kerlin, “Well, then, Master Kerlin, I do see that your Councilors have declared war upon this, thy island. Well, I say so be it! Guards, take this prisoner to the brig, while I decide the fate of the two of them.”

The end of Book Two, Heir of Drachma - Center game

Well, here it is - the start of a new book in the series (for real). After trying to decide where to end Book Two and to start Book Three.

Well, sorry about this, but I decided on something newer, so this is actually the final chapter of Book Two, and I began a new Book Three - soon to be seen...

Center Game

Heir of Drachma

Book Two

 

Chapter Thirty Eight

 

 

 

 

All was now quiet in Drachma’s abode. He sat in his chair in the study, with his glass of wine at his side. A gentle breeze blew in from the open window, carrying with it the scent of newly turned earth. This caused him to stop and pay attention. He had seen to it that Tom was dispatched along with a contingent of his best fighting men earlier in the day. There seemed no one else, however, he could sense the presence of another person in the room. He was so sure of it that he spoke aloud.

 

“Whoever is in here, I ask that you identify yourself, for I do know you are here with me.”

 

A voice came in on the breeze, a gentle, soothing voice. “Of course, you know me, my good friend. I am here to talk to you for the last time.”

 

“Falma!? Ah, if I could but see you.”

 

“That is not to be this time, my friend, but I too am anxious to see you. And you know I shall, but soon.”

 

“How soon? When?”

 

“You know I cannot say, especially as my own sense of time is now different from yours. But let me talk to you about what is happening in my beloved Shepperton - happening now.”

 

“Do tell, my friend. You obviously can see more than Tom or I and it is with some trepidation that I ask – are we doing right this night?”

 

“Alas, I am unable to say, as there are persons whose actions and intentions I am unable to see. However, knowing what I do, I can safely say that your persons are indeed doing what they perceive to be right. And further, that Tom shall soon be your true successor.”

 

“What do you need, then, to tell me, so I may write it down for young Tom?”

 

“You may tell him that Master Charlie shall be the one whose decision will this time be the deciding note, and that the future of several persons will depend upon his deciding. The persons so affected will include the lady Marilyn, but also the fates of Master Robert, the lady Judy, and her newborn. But it shall also decide the futures of persons in his own time and shall include the earl of Shepperton (who is yet alive), Christine Lewinsky and Alonza Chavez. And that, further, it shall determine (though I am unable to tell you just now) a descendant of Antoine LeGace.”

 

“Is that so? I suspected as much. And I do assume that you have taken that into consideration, have you not?”

 

“Of course, my friend. And both Christine Lewinsky and Alonza Chavez have now become aware of his presence, and I do feel certain of their ability to take on that challenge.”

 

“So, Tom was right to include them both.”

 

“Indeed, he was. And so, we must leave it in the hands of those chosen for now.”

 

“And I am then able to sleep as one who has done what he may, with what he has been given.”

 

“Aye, my dear friend. Grace be with thee.”

 

Then, as the breeze blew through his room, taking Falma with it, Drachma took out of his drawer, a sheet of paper and a pen from its inkwell, he began writing his last letter to Tom.

 

            To my dearest grandson, Drachma of the Island,

 

                        I have just been visited by the spirit of Falma, and he brings his greetings

                        to you, who must now take over my duties to Shepperton. Now, Falma told

                        me of things which I now confer to you, as well as confirmation of things

                        which I suspected.

 

                        Falma did tell of Master Charlie, who is to make the decision of staying or going.

                        And I know you shall be there to determine when he makes his decision, as my 

protégé, this I do know. I remain uncertain as to whether to tell him of the power of the broach which I know he has. That shall be for you and him to decide.

 

Only this time his decision shall affect a number of others, including Master Robert, Marilyn, the Lady Judy, their own newborn, as well as persons in both times. He also told of a new threat – that of a descendant of Master LeGace, and that he has seen to it that Christine and Alonza from Master Robert’s time have been alerted

to his presence, but he did not tell me more of this. I assume that you have confidence in these two women, and that is good. But beware of the evil one!

 

Also, you now know where the deed is kept

.

I know, my grandson, that you shall possess that power which you need.

 

Your everlasting friend and grandfather,

 

Drachma

                        

 

 

 

Tom and his select forest guards turned the corner and headed toward Shepperton. He knew where he had to go, and what he had to do. His only concern for the moment was what LeGace was planning. He was disinclined to believe what that evil one had written and felt with some certainty that he might be riding into a trap. As they approached the castle, up the hill on the right, he turned and said to his men, “me good men, this shall be your moment in time. What this agent of the evil one has decided I am not able to say, but I know this – that he has written a lie, but whatever the truth is, I am on the side of truth. Let us meet with Kerlin and Cayman, before proceeding to our destination.”

 

With that, he turned sharply to the right, and led his men up to the castle gate. There he saw Kerlin, along with Cayman, Derrymoor and Gregorio, along with their own riders, just within the gate.

 

“Ah, my young man,” said Kerlin. “We had news that you were coming from the keepers of the watch. It is good to see you again! I know that my own measure of anxiety is assuaged by your presence. My, how things have changed with you since our first meeting, eh?”

 

“As you say, Kerlin. To this day I do remember our first meeting. How could I not? There you were, all dressed as a forest guard, looking like you could but handle anything that was thrown in your direction. But it seems that Falma, Drachma and the forces of good and evil had designs that were too much to even think of for us.”

 

“And here we are today, under similar circumstances, but in such different roles, or so it seems, no?”

 

“Indeed! Now, tell me of the plans again, so that we might all be prepared. I do think that, with Master Gregorio and his men as with Derrymoor and his fighters, we should be able to avoid any unnecessary entanglements.”

 

Tom got down off his horse, as did Kerlin, and the two of them conferred, along with Derrymoor and Gregorio. Their meeting was brief, but obviously intense. For those observing, it only underscored the importance of this meeting. After conferring, Tom addressed the gathered forces, and said, “My dear comrades, we are here to deal with the purest evil. This one man has decided that he alone is the one to rule our island. It is no secret that I, as well as Drachma and the former earl of Shepperton have thrown our allegiance to Master Craycroft. And I assume that you, too, have chosen this path as well. And further I know that you have seen the letter, or at least have heard of the letter written to Master Craycroft. And further, that you have heard of the terrible thing he did to Master Tingley. For all this we seek revenge! Now, you all know where you are to be, and what you must all do under the circumstances you find yourselves in. Do any have questions of their role?”

 

Tom waited and looked out at his comrades. Their eyes burned with certainty of purpose, but none spoke. Tom nodded, then he said, “very well, my fellows, and so we go out with all our hearts and minds as one. This shall be for Kerlin, our lord Craycroft, our earl, and also for Drachma!”

 

“Aye, aye!” Came the voices of the men. It was then that Kerlin left, going out the main gate, and heading toward Reordan Manor. He was followed by Gregorio’s men, who scattered about, seemingly without order, but eventually heading toward the manor as well. The others left by the other gate, in the back of the castle, splitting up into three groups, before heading toward the manor house as well.

 

All was quiet as Kerlin approached Reordan Manor. It was evening, and the darkening sky was moonless. A breeze from the ocean carried the scent of the fisheries and seaweed. Before going up the path, Kerlin looked about him quickly, and to his satisfaction, saw that Gregorio’s men had, in fact, taken up their positions. He trusted that Tom’s and Derrymoor’s men were also in place. He stopped at the gate, where an armed guard, who looked familiar bade him halt. The man was dressed in a dark uniform, and Kerlin stood relaxed, but at attention. Then it came to Kerlin, that this was, indeed, Michel. Now, what has he done, and who did he let know that he had changed his allegiance? That is something I must look into if I am able.

 

Michel certainly recognized Kerlin, his former commander, yet said nothing to give any inkling of what had transpired in the past four years. He simply said, “Now ye are here per the request o’ Master LeGace. D’ye have any weapons upon yer person?”

 

“Nay, of course not.” And with that Kerlin allowed a search of his person for any hidden weapons, all the while keeping an expert eye on Michel, but then he saw the eyes of another in the guard house but could not tell to whom they belonged. All told they were the eyes of youth, but also the eyes of ancient wisdom. He looked away, and then back, and they were gone. But what remained was the smell of the ancient forest coming in from the open window. Then Kerlin smiled, as this was truly a sign.

 

“Come this way,” said Michel, “but be not a fool to think that ye can get away with anything.”

 

Michel led Kerlin to the manor house, up the stairs, and into the huge foyer. Kerlin had never seen the inside of Reordan Manor before, and his first impression was that of foolish misplaced elegance. He was led into one of the rooms at the back of the grand foyer. There, behind the desk sat Leonardo, who looked at Kerlin with utter derision.

 

“So, you have come, Kerlin. I do not have to tell you that your presence has been duly noted, and did you bring the two articles that my master requested?”

 

“Aye, I have them here. But I would request that you deliver them in my presence to your Master LeGace.”

 

“That will not be necessary, as he is not here.”

 

“Indeed? I do feel it shall be necessary.” Kerlin replied calmly, “this is too big an issue for you alone.”

 

“Well, then I insist that you come with me, as I shall take you to him. I do assume that you are unarmed, and that I shall have no trouble with you.”

 

“Indeed, I am. But my wits remain with me, even though I have no sword.”

 

Quite suddenly there was a crowd in the room, with several large men surrounding Kerlin. However, he remained icily calm.

 

“Let me warn you all, that should any harm come to me, you shall not even get to see your Master LeGace again.”

 

“Oh, and how will that be? Do you have special powers?” Leonardo seemed amused.

 

“Aye,” Kerlin replied, “that I do have, and you do not want to know or see what I am able to do.”

 

“So ye say, but ye shall indeed meet yer match this day. Come me mates, let us take this gentleman to meet Master LeGace.”

 

 

 

 

 

Gregorio was staring intently at the manor, when he saw the door open, and he also saw the man, Kerlin, being led out of the side door. He was surrounded by guards and a lean, taller man who seemed to be in charge.

 

“Watch closely,” he whispered in Italian, “for it is Kerlin, and he will signal us as he leaves.” 

 

The two men with him nodded and stared intently ahead. Even though it was dark, they could see Kerlin within the group. His stern and steely manner was obvious, even at this distance. They saw his movement suddenly cease, as he bent forward to adjust his boot. They noticed that it was his left boot that he attended to. Ever so brief, that was the signal and Gregorio noticed. As the group headed toward the harbor, Gregorio told his men to tell Tom and the others what he signaled, and two of his runners went off to do just that, as he himself, along with most of his men silently slipped off to follow the group of men heading toward the waiting boat in the harbor.

 

As the cluster of men reached the boat, Gregorio was watching closely as they got into the little boat, and then rowed out toward the ships in the distance, outside of the purview of the harbor control. Gregorio could not be certain at first, but as he stared after the leaving boat in the harbor, he became sure of what he saw. There it was, at the stern of the boat a faint yet distinct blue light. He asked the aide at his side if he saw the unusual light, but no he hadn’t seen it.

 

I must tell Tom about this light. Perhaps he will know its significance. 

 

 

  

Either Chapter 9 of Shepperton's Sacrifice or Chapter Thirty-Seven of Center Game

Well, this is the last chance for you, my few and faithful readers, to decide - either this chapter is the final chapter of Book Two or the Ninth chapter of Book Three. My own preference is that this is the end of Center Game, Heir of Drachma, Book Two. Either way, it is one stimulating chapter, revealing only a little, but hidden within its framework is something that will blossom into another book of intrigue, magic, suspense and the battle of Good vs Evil in the world of Shepperton and within us. Enjoy!

Chapter Nine of Shepperton's Sacrifice or Chapter Thirty-Seven of Center Game

“Are you certain you have everything you need?”

 

“Oh, aye, that I am, m’liege,” answered Kerlin, “and are you also certain of your reinforcements. ‘Twould seem to me that it is you who have more to lose than do I.”

 

Craycroft shifted in his seat, then he got up, and went over toward the window, and looked down at the castle sprawled below. He could see, in the distance, the shape of what was originally Reordan Manor.

 

“Do you remember, Kerlin, our first encounter?”

 

“Most certainly, sire, but to be honest, it was the second encounter which I remember most vividly, and which shall always bring me the most rue.”

 

“Ah, well, then let me explain them to you, both encounters, actually. The reason that I wish to remind you of the first encounter is because of whom I was with. It was he who has meant so very much to our castle, and its history.”

 

“I do remember very well. It was Drachma, indeed. I was reporting to him about my encounter with Antoine LeGace.”

 

“You are correct. And it was what he told me after you left which set the stage for all that you have become. He said to me that you would be given the opportunity to prove yourself, and that I should be considering you for advancement. All this he was telling me, a simple healer at the time, as if speaking like a prophet.”

 

“Not the first time I have heard that, m’liege. And might I say that, should providence be amenable, we could use his influence right now.”

 

“Ah, but Kerlin, we do have his influence, in the form of his grandson.”

 

“Aye. And you do believe that he shall be ready?”

 

“As ready as you or I. And let me tell you of the second encounter we had, for at that encounter everything had changed.”

 

“Indeed, it had, for I came to you a broken man, having lost both the persons I was entrusted to protect along their way.”

 

“But, as you must recall, you had followed precisely the instructions given you by Drachma himself.”

Kerlin nodded and swallowed as his response.

 

“And so,” Craycroft went on, “you had done what your instructions were, despite the apparent brokenness of all around you. Is that not so?”

 

“Aye, it was so, despite my having serious misgivings at the time.”

 

“Well, then my good and faithful protector, you had earned your position, not with works of battlefield valor, but with obedience even in the face of apparent failure, no?”

 

Kerlin simply nodded. And Craycroft came toward him, and the two men shook hands. But then, Craycroft hugged Kerlin, and without further words, Kerlin left, the heavy oak door closing with a thud behind him.

 

Craycroft sat down heavily in the chair and reached for his wine. He sipped it cautiously, as he sat and pondered what was about to occur. He had conferred with Cayman, with Proust and Kerlin, with Derrymoor, and also with Tom, and together they had completed their plan of action. Now the only thing remaining was the waiting for all the pieces to fall together. 

 

Rather abruptly, he thought again of Marilyn, and he rang for his page. He asked the page to bring Marilyn, along with her guardian, Fausto, and Jeanne to his rooms. There was just something that she had said which bothered him, and he needed clarification. 

 

 

 

 

 

Marilyn was startled by the page’s knock, as well as his appearance with Fausto at her door. And the look on the youngster’s face said that this was something important.

 

“M’lady,” began the page, “I ha’ been asked by m’lord, Craycroft t’ tell ye that ye an’ yer man are needed at once. So, if ye would, I’d be happy t’ accompany ye t’ ‘is premises.”

 

Marilyn looked again at the small page, and then Fausto, to see if he knew anything. Fausto, sensing her hesitancy, shrugged his huge shoulders, then said, “I know not, m’lady, what this is about. But I shall be accompanying ye.”

 

The trio set off for the keep, and for Craycroft’s quarters. On the way, Marilyn asked Fausto again if he knew anything more.

 

After a shake of his head, he answered, “Nay, m’lady, I know not anythin’ of this. But I do agree that it does seem to me to be a wee bit off – ye bein’ summoned and’ all.”

 

“That’s right, Fausto. It’s not like we can do much of anything. And for him to be asking for you and me both, it seems that it may be important. And here we go again with the issue of importance. Ah, well… why, thank you page.” She said as the youngster held open the door to the keep.

 

The page led the two of them up the stone staircase, and then into the hallway, which was becoming familiar to Marilyn. She took another look around her, noticing the tapestries and the busts of austere figures whom she did not recognize. One of the busts caught her eye, and she turned toward Fausto and asked, “Fausto, do you know this man?”

 

“Oh, aye, that be Cartho. He was a great man, and truly, he was a marvel – he was lord Craycroft’s mentor. The lord must have just moved it up here. Fer it was not here before.”

 

“You’ve been here before, then?”

 

“Aye, m’lady, it was during the rule o’ the old earl of Shepperton.”

 

“You’ll have to tell me more…”

 

Their reverie was interrupted by none other than Craycroft himself. “Ah, my friends, do come in. I noted that you did take notice of the bust of Cartho. I did just have that one moved up here yesterday.”

 

“It is truly a striking bust, of an obviously powerful man,” Marilyn said, as they followed Craycroft into his sitting room.

 

“Aye. ‘tis true.” He paused, then turning to the page, said, “Now, Herman, if ye would, I shall have ye bring up some refreshment for m’lady and her man.”

 

“Aye, I shall bring some anon,” he said before turning abruptly and heading on down the hallway.

 

As they turned and went in to Craycroft’s sitting room, Marilyn noticed that Jeanne was already here, and gave her a comforting smile, but she appeared otherwise hyperalert, sitting on the edge of her chair.

 

“Jeanne, I’m so glad you’re here. This whole business is beginning to give me bad vibes. Also, I’m beginning to think that it would be a bad idea to go in search of my husband…”

 

“Bad vibes? What is that?” Jeanne asked with perplexity.

 

“Oh, it’s an expression from our time. Actually, it’s from a song, written by one in a group called the Beach Boys, named Brian Wilson. When asked, he noted that his dog could tell if people were good or threatening, by their “vibrations.” And that begat his song, called Good Vibrations, and the nation caught on to the understated message, that there were good and bad vibrations, or vibes, given off everywhere.”

 

“That is most interesting, m’lady” said Craycroft. “For it is of such that we speak this evening. And before I tell you what we shall be doing, let me but ask of you a favor.”

 

“A favor? What is it that you want of me? For it does seem to me that I am here, not of my own accord, but rather at the whim of forces beyond my own understanding.”

 

“Ah, true, m’lady. For such it would seem for many of us as well. But let me tell you of the favor I ask. You had said that young Lisa had been brought to you by one who calls herself Maggie. Is that correct?”

 

“Yes. That’s right. And that is something I’ll never forget, neither that moment, nor the girl. They simply appeared out of the woodland, with Maggie leading this young thing, and turned her over to my care, as if that was the most natural thing to do. Mind you, it’s not as if I had any will to resist, but I tell you, there was something about her, an aura, with a bluish glow coming from her face, which was beautiful, and surrounded by a shroud of red hair. Oh, my, it still makes me tingle thinking about her. And you know what? I can still remember everything she said to me.”

 

“Oh, and what did she say?

 

“She called me Lady Marilyn (and that caught me off guard), and she said “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.””

 

“Most interesting, indeed, Lady Marilyn,” Craycroft mused, “for it fits with what I have heard of you. You may not yet know it, but your voice and your knowledge are what we need here in Shepperton.”

 

“Mister Craycroft, I really am nothing special, and I have no special skills, nor do I have any special knowledge. If, in fact, you need someone special like that, you are looking at the wrong person. I just came along because Falma told me that Bob was in need of my help. I’m sure you remember Falma, and just how persuasive he can be.”

 

Craycroft smiled at her. “Indeed, I do remember Falma well, m’lady. And you are so right that he could be a most persuasive individual. But that he would consider you to be the appropriate one, as has Maggie herself, who is beholden to no one here and now, would strike me as a true sign from Heaven itself that you are to be with us in our hour of need.”

 

“Heaven?” Marilyn looked perplexed. “Do you really mean Heaven? As in the realm of angels, and where we would all like to go when we die – that Heaven? Is that the place you are talking about?”

 

“Oh, aye, m’lady. And it would seem that you, among us mortals, are in touch with that place even as you do walk within our midst. To wit, the angelic being that visited you, and even Master Falma, would bear witness to that truth.”

 

“Truth. Is that what you want from me?”

 

“Indeed, it is, m’lady. For you see, it is either truth or power which reigns over us. Mere power corrupts those who use it, and the lies which they use to bolster their clinging minions offer nothing but empty promises. Truth, on the other hand, is grounded in eternity, and whether or not those who hold to power see it for what it is, it must prick at their consciences. So, you see, we do need your words of truth, and it was for this reason you are now among us.”

 

A heavy silence enveloped the room. Eventually, Marilyn broached the silence and said, “So that is what you want from me? Am I an oracle, then, or some sort of prophet?”

 

“If I may, m’lady,” Fausto spoke up, unexpectedly, “’twould seem to me that what lord Craycroft is saying be the thing that I also have seen. I know not what to call ye, but I do recall that ye’re everything that I was told by young Tom. For I was told to expect a great lady from the time o’ Robert Gilsen, whom I would know by her action to be one we could expect to do great things…”

 

“Great things?  Here?” Marilyn’s tone was both exasperated and resigned. Turning again to Craycroft, “Well, then, what have you to tell me. For I know that you have done something that will have serious consequences for us all. Am I right about that?”

 

For answer, Craycroft pulled from his cloak the letter from LeGace. As Marilyn read the letter, her face darkened. She said nothing for several seconds, then stood up, and went over to the window, looking down at the scene below.

 

“Come here,” she said to Craycroft, “and tell me where this will be taking place. You do know what I mean, don’t you?”

 

Craycroft got up, went over to the window, and pointed, “There, you can see for yourself the place to which I have dispatched Kerlin.”

 

“And what precautions have you taken, for it seems that this Antoine LeGace would himself be wary of you, especially at this time…”

 

There was a knock at the door, and then the page reappeared, carrying a large tray.

 

“Thank you, page,” said Craycroft. “Please set your tray here and wait outside. I am quite certain that I’ll have need of ye ere this evening is done.”

 

Craycroft then took two chairs, one each for Fausto and Marilyn. Next, he asked Jeanne to come and join them as they sat about the table. What the page brought up was indeed a small feast, with meats, cheeses, yeast rolls and tumblers for the ale, which he already knew, Craycroft kept in his rooms.

 

“Now, my friends, let us eat and drink, and then I shall tell you of my plans for tonight, as well as for the foreseeable future.”

 

The small gathering all sat and ate, looking at each other, but none speaking. After eating, they drank their ale, and finally, Craycroft began to speak. “Here is what I have planned for this encounter with the evil Master LeGace.” He told them of his plan to involve Gregorio, Derrymoor, Tom’s men, Cayman and Proust. Marilyn’s head was reeling as he explained further, and she was amazed at Craycroft’s plan and his knowledge of his own people. As he continued, her respect for this physician turned ruler took on new depth, yet she could not shake the worry that her own Bob, as well as Jeanne’s Melchior were under the sway of this most evil man. Though she had never met him, she could feel his venom infiltrating the scene.

 

“Mister Craycroft,” she began, “it is quite clear to me that your plan certainly has merit, and appears to be quite brilliant, but I can definitely feel that this Mr. LeGace’s evil has already gotten Bob and Melchior in his clutches, and I do not know how he plans to use them. And, yes, I understand that Bob is being held in some barracks, and Melchior is on the ship, from which Lisa was rescued by this waif of a person called Maggie…”

 

“And do you not know,” interjected Jeanne, “that Maggie indicated to Lisa that Melchior was safe, and that Maggie knew of plans for his purposes?”

 

“No, I didn’t know of such… It would seem that Maggie had special messages for us all, and each couched in her own undecipherable terms.”

 

“Indeed!” answered Craycroft. “And to each person, only that which he could carry for the time given.”

 

Then Marilyn found herself quoting, “For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.”

 

Craycroft and Jeanne were stunned by her words, which seemed to carry the weight of certitude, and seemed to echo across the great chasm of time. Marilyn, however, knew she was quoting from Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, and realized then that the bible which was known at this time had not been translated from the Latin, and would remain so for their lives. She swallowed at this realization, and caught some of what Craycroft was saying earlier, and found it humbling.

 

“My pardon, m’lady, but your words carry the ring of truth, as I have indicated. It is precisely what we need of you.”

 

As they headed back their rooms, Marilyn again noticed the bust of Cartho, but this time she felt its aura. It was as if Craycroft could also feel it.

 

 

 

Much later, after she had been brought back to her room, escorted by her huge friend, Fausto, who, on the way back, was uncharacteristically reticent to speak. At her door, however, he said quite simply, “M’lady, I didna’ have any knowledge of what ye spoke at m’lord’s place; but be comforted tha’ I shall remain close t’yer door, an’ I’ll be at yer side, whatever becomes o’ this. On that ye have me word.”

 

“Thank you sincerely, Fausto,” Marilyn answered, “That means the world to me.”

 

He then took her hand in his huge hands, and very gently kissed her small, pale fingers, before leaving to go back to his room next to hers.

 

As Marilyn entered her room, she was startled to see that someone had lit a fire, and on her table were some fine bread, fruit and cheeses, as well as a tankard of Barncuddy’s finest. She sat down, and sampled some cheese and fruit, and began drinking some ale. Looking over the lid, she suddenly saw some movement across the room. And there she was again, looking as if she belonged in the room. Her red hair framed her beautiful face, from which emanated a faint blue light.

 

“Lady Marilyn, be at ease! I have come to tell you of your circumstances, as well as of the choice that Master Charlie shall have to make, which will affect you, Lady Judy, her daughter, Angelica, and Robert.”

 

Marilyn swallowed her mouthful of ale, then spoke up. “Maggie, you do surprise me again. But please, go ahead and tell me what this is all about, for I’ve been given some of the story of why I’m here, and I’ve also been told that you are in touch with the truth of the matter.”

 

“For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now you know in part, but then you shall know just as I also am known.”

 

Marilyn looked agape at the vision in front of her, at this young girl, radiantly beautiful, quoting back to her the scripture she had quoted to Craycroft and the others (with the subtlest changes).

 

“All right, you have my attention,” she said at last. “Tell me what I must know. This whole thing has got me so torn apart that I can’t think straight.”

 

“Listen, and you shall hear what you need to know. You are here as an advisor to Craycroft, and you shall be, along with Jeanne, those that he may trust to keep him on the path of truth. There will come difficulties, but you shall have the power of truth on your side. As for Master Charlie, he shall also have difficulties, but you may not interfere with his decisions. He must choose to go back himself, or to send you back. Both of you may not go. That is the way of this curtain of time. But for now then, you may speak with and interact with Robert as you see fit.”

 

“And what about this Antoine LeGace? What can I do about him if anything?”

 

“You shall avoid him. He is here as sent by his master, the evil one. There is nothing you are able to do to him. Now, Marilyn, be at peace, for that is what I am able to give you.” And with that she handed Marilyn a small loaf of warm, fragrant bread. As Marilyn took a bite of her bread, Maggie vanished from her sight, leaving behind the scent of the forest.