Goddess Kindled, page 12
“And his father?”
Suddenly she was angry. Her cheeks darkened in a heated blush. Gritting her teeth she spoke through her teeth.
“That bastard is dead I hope. He disappeared before Rowan’s birth.”
Oh, maybe he should stop with the questions for now. She seemed to be emotionally all over the place. Perhaps food, and drink were a better idea.
“I have something for you to eat, and drink if you’d like Harlow.”
He liked her name. Liked how it sounded as he said it. She seemed to think the same saying, her posture relaxing, and a small smile touching her lips.
“I like the way you say my name. Yes, I’d like some food please.”
Slowly she eased herself up into a better sitting position.
“What would you like first?”
Hesitating a moment she said.
“Drink please.”
Handing her the drink he picked up a small piece of meat. Taking the cup when she was finished he held the meat to her lips. His heart sang when she opened her mouth and took the meat. Moaning as she chewed slowly. Licking her lips when she was done.
“Can I have some more? That was wonderful. I’ve never tasted something so full of flavor.”
“Of course.”
Holding another piece to her lips the cycle continued til she had eaten, and drank everything he had prepared for her. With her eyes drooping he helped her to lay back down.
“Rest Harlow. I’ll be here when you wake up.”
“Mmmm” was her weak response before producing a light little snore.
Sitting back he was surprised how much he enjoyed feeding her by hand. He also had an inkling that was not something she was used to but enjoyed it all the same. Was it because it was him? He sure hoped so. His mind quickly wandered to the mention, she had a son off at training. Where was he training, and with whom? What responsibilities? At least no mate or father in the picture. He would have to get the full story on that though. Perhaps he should wait till she was ready to share it with him. She likely wouldn’t remember any of her ramblings later if she was having trouble with her memories.
What troubled him when she expressed anger, was fear, panic, and shame beneath the surface. Every emotion she had showed across her face. He saw them there clear as day even if they were just a flicker. She should never have those feelings let alone they linger for fifteen years or more. Mates are to be protected and loved. Determination filled him as he promised her he would be there for her. That, never again would she feel fear, panic, or shame.
This was how the rest of the week continued. He cared for her daily while she rested, and continued to heal. Each sharing a little touch here or a caress there. Each day is better than the one before. They each learned a little about the other in their daily conversations. The more they shared, and the closer they got, it was as if the magick string tying them together was getting ever shorter. While he was not shy about staring, and checking her out. She would study him when she thought he wasn’t looking. He liked the idea she found him attractive, even with her limited vision. That seemed to gradually improve day by day.
He loved the way she always blushed under his touch. The way she touched him hesitant but curious would always send a zinging thrill through him. What would they be like together? He always wondered. Her reaction to her son's father gave him pause every time he wanted to take things further. Chances were she was not treated well. One's partner should always be cherished. He wanted to kill any man who dared hurt her. He would just have to bide his time and wait.
Curiosity was growing daily though, he suspected however she had no memory of her first ramblings. Revealing she had a son or the death of her dearest friend. She tended to repeat things, however never that first conversation. Not sure how to broach the topic again he let it be for now. This time spent together just the two of them was perfect. Tomorrow he planned on showing her his favorite places around Cormac’s little cottage. She was able to make out enough things if they were close. Plus she had hinted many times about being stir crazy. Whatever that was, he wasn’t sure. If he had to guess from the repetitiveness of the statement, she wanted out of bed.
Perhaps if she was up to it they could go further, and introduce her to the village. He didn’t like the idea of sharing her with anyone though. Seeing as they hadn’t heard a word about her, and no attacks had come against her. He figured it was time. He wanted her to see his home. Still, caution was needed. They always needed to be prepared.
Especially since he still didn’t know what had happened to her or how to leave her in the condition he found her in. Plus her memory was still out of reach for her. Then there was the fact she so resembled Neera. In looks only, Harlow differed by being a sweet caring person, whereas Neera was a tall slender harpy. Who only thought of herself, and what she could gain from others. No matter what, her followers would turn a blind eye to the differences. Placing Harlow who was shorter but by far sexier in his opinion, in danger. Grateful then he and the fellow members of Ravens Night had agreed to secretly keep watch. Looking out after Mate as well as monitoring the known followers of Neera. Thus easing some of his worries so he could then focus solely on her.
Chapter Eleven
Harlow woke feeling well rested, and happier than she had been in a long time. Her time spent with Kieran while she healed was absolutely lovely. Other than her twin brother, and her son no man had ever treated her with any kindness. Well, there was Giant that recently could be put into that category. Even then though no man had truly cared for her this way. Feeding her, caring for her, and touching her. Those accidental grazes, and the soft touches every so often always set her blood on fire.
Bolting up right she realized she just remembered. She had a twin brother. How could someone forget that? Rubbing her head for a nonexistent hurt. She remembered they must be protected at all costs, her insides were screaming at her. They were her only family left. She would use the skills her sibling had taught her as best she could. Until she had all her memories back however she couldn’t be sure of anything. Was she looking for them or them her? Or could it be both? For now, though they would have to keep her little secret, at least till her memory returned.
Now who was this other person? Trying to remember why she could remember Giant. Not a name, but a description of the man who had helped her. With what she wasn’t sure. Only she had decided he was now family, and to be treated as such. Thumping her fist down on the cot in frustration. This was becoming a routine for her as of late. This trying was getting her nowhere, instead she took in her surroundings.
It was then she realized she could see perfectly clearly too. Having almost given up hope that her vision would return to normal. Taking her time she looked around the room. Taking in where she had been living. It was different from anything she had ever seen before. Furniture was crafted out of wood, as were the walls, ceiling, and floors. Even the area she assumed was the kitchen was simple but practically functional. She could attest to that having eaten throughout the week. The food was wonderful, and so tasty. Never had she eaten meals so full of flavor.
Looking closer all the pieces of furniture seemed to be crafted by hand. Tool marks could be seen here, and there, adding character to the piece. The skill, and knowledge that went into creating such things were evident in each, and everyone. This person was very talented. Fabrics like she’d never seen before were also dotted around the place. Some were bright, and colorful while others were plain.
Excitement grew while her heart beat a little faster the more she saw. She noticed at the far end opposite her, that there must be windows, the fabric covering them was moving in the wind. Without thinking she jumped up only to get tangled in her blankets from the cot, and face planting onto the floor. Pausing to unravel herself, and center her breathing, she then stood and rushed to the door.
Grabbing a hold of the large handle, pulling with all her might, she swung the door open. Stumbling a little at the ease in which it opened. She wasn’t used to opening a door this way, nor the surprise that greeted her on the other side. The large yellow sun blazing its light stung her eyes. Gasping at the surprise and discomfort she cupped her hands around her eyes. Stepping over the threshold her jaw dropped in utter shock. Trees, lots, and lots of fresh green trees. Ignoring the burn from the brightness she rushed down the cottage steps, tilting her head up. There was a clear blue sky up there with a brightly shining sun, with a scattering of white fluffy clouds.
“Wow”
With excitement, she turned to look at the cottage where she had spent her last week. Another work of art, truly. Crafted of logs, and what she guessed was called a thatched roof. Books were wonderful tools to learn things from. But seeing with your own eyes was a wonder to behold, seeing was believing.
It was rather large in its setting, though perfectly settled. A building that looked as if over time was added to when rooms were needed. Somewhere in the back of her mind, she knew that this building seemed out of its time somehow, like her it didn’t belong. Shaking off the thought, the trees surrounding the cottage seemed to be embracing it in a protective hug. With the exception of the small clearing in the front where she stood by the front steps. Remembering the curiosity of trees, she whipped around only to collide with a solid wall of muscle. Big strong arms wrapped around her. Instead instant panic, desire filled her.
“Kieran.”
Laughing as he spoke.
“Careful there little one. Where are you off to in such a hurry?”
Inhaling deep. She loved his scent, it did crazy things to her. Trying to free herself but enjoying his hold just the same. Opening her mouth to answer him, a moan came out instead. Which had him responding instantly by tightening his hold, and what she thought was him smelling her hair. Looking up with her brow furrowed, she asked.
“Did you just sniff my hair?”
Relaxing once she got a good look at him.
She could truly see him. He was beautiful, but ruff. A large man with a kind heart. Sensing he carried many burdens. Tilting her head she studied his face. A few scares here, and there decorated his face. Reaching up with her hand she felt his jaw, and the little bit of stubble there. She rather liked it, smiling at the thought. She noticed he had arched his brow. Shy, she ducked her head. Never being this bold before she wasn’t sure on protocol.
As he lifted her chin with his hooked finger. He asked, looking softly in the eyes.
“See something you like?”
Unable to speak she simply nodded her head yes enthusiastically, before blushing a deep scarlet. Not liking his response. She pushed against him, freeing herself with a huff. Remembering the trees she marched towards them. Taking in their beauty she took a deep inhale. Clean, earthy, and sweet, just like in her dreams. Gently running her fingers along the bark of the tree trunks, needles, and leaves. She was amazed, even these too were the same too. If that were so, was she dreaming? Whirling around to face Kieran with her hand to her chest. She loudly asked, fearing his answer.
“Am I dreaming?”
Confusion covered his face.
“Dreaming? No.”
As he shook his head. Stretching his arm to her,
“Come. I want to show you my favorite place. It’s very close to here.”
Taking his outstretched hand feeling his warmth as he closed it within his own. Together they made their way around the cottage along a footpath. Full of worry, and fear she tried her best to hide it. Where was she, and what had happened to her. The more she tried to bottle it up, and push it down the worse it got. She was starting to shake.
When Kieran announced proudly.
“Here it is.”
He pulled her forward to stand in front of him, resting his large hands on her shoulders.
Having been stuck in her own head on the way here she hadn’t seen much. So it took a few moments for her eyes to focus on where he had taken her. Gasping in shock she covered her mouth with her hand. It wasn’t possible. However Kieran took her gasp differently.
As he moved around her speaking
“I know right. It truly is a wonder, and so peaceful, and free.”
As he slowly spun around. Sharing a side of himself again, no one else was privileged to see.
Putting one foot in front of the other, she moved her way into the clearing. The very same clearing with two centric circles of stones. A place she only thought she made up in her dreams after reading way too many romance books combined with her other literature. This was a real place, and she was here in it. But how? Her head was starting to hurt again. Frowning, she rubbed her temple. Looking at Kieran she asked.
“What is this place?”
With his arms out wide, and a grin from ear to ear.
“Why, this is our sacred grove. A place for ceremonies, gatherings, and handling of affairs.”
This time he really looked at her. Concern marring his face.
“What is it, little one? What’s wrong?”
Rushing to her side, and quickly picking her up into his arms. Before strolling to the stone circle to sit on one.
Pushing one of her curls aside. He continued to twirl it saying “tell me.”
Taking a deep breath she wasn’t sure what to say, and was shocked when she blurted out.
“I’ve been here before.”
At his confused look she continued on. Telling him about her many dreams over the years. Most were the same over, and over again. Lately though they had been changing, different really. Still the same people, but older, aging. Then there was the battle, as she went into more, and more detail. Kieran became bigger, and harder somehow. It was strange. Stopping to ask.
“Kieran are you alright?”
Tilting her head realization struck her like being hit over the head. Jumping from his lap she cried.
“You. It was you. I’ve been dreaming of you.”
Taking a few deep breaths she asked him.
“Why?”
Kieran just shook his head slowly before he answered.
“I know not little one.”
She knew instantly he was lying or at least not telling a whole truth. Her memory was foggy, but this rang a bell for her. Now knowing what it was like to be on the other side. She didn’t like it. What had she lied about, and to whom, and was Kieran doing it now. Instead of asking, hoping someday he would tell her the truth. She just accepted his answer, and asked.
“Can we go back? I’m getting a little tired, and hungry.”
Slowly he stood taking her hand.
“Of course, little one. Don’t worry we'll figure this out.”
Nodding in agreement she let him lead her once again. Having not paid attention getting here she had no idea where here actually was. Or let alone where the cottage was. How did she get herself into this pickle of a mess? What was she to do now? With a thumping in her head growing, she decided to let the worry be tomorrow's problem. She should just enjoy her time with Kieran.
When Harlow had drifted off after their meal, he snuck outside to the porch. Cormac sat there on the steps keeping his hands busy. The man could never just sit still; he had to be doing something. He would always say ‘a man who does nothing is useless.’ So he created wonderful things out of wood with whatever tool he could. The only exception to the rule was talking, a good conversation had to have undecided attention. Rolling his eyes as he laughed internally. He sat down beside his Shaman. Looking ahead he stared at the trees that had fascinated her so.
“So has she told you then?”
Confused he turned, and watched the hands at work creating three interlocking open triangles encasing a crescent moon. When he asked.
“Has she told me what?”
Shaking his head in confusion. The old man seemed to always be one step ahead. Likely his gift of sight. Though he suspected that was not always the case. He did have a way that allowed people to open up to him. Though he suspected this time it was not the case.
“When she’s from?”
Replying “N…” before it registers what he had been asked.
“What do you mean when? Isn’t it where?”
Now he was curious, what did the man know? There obviously was a great deal of magick at work here. Which put him on edge a little.
Putting down his carving he turned to look directly at Kieran.
“No, I do mean when. You need to get her to open up to you, and fast. She may not like it, but you don’t have a lot of time. I’m telling you this only once. She is the KEY, and needs to be protected, and treasured. Your road will not be easy. You will also have to take some leeway with the ceremony, and rearrange the order a bit.”
With that he rose, snapping fingers making the tools, and carving disappeared. Turning to look down at Kieran.
“Oh I almost forgot. Have Aidan with you to train her. Their gifts will align well. Gotta go, later.”
With a two finger salute he vanished in lightning a pop. That man had the oddest way of speaking sometimes. It was like he was from a different time. Time, that word kept rolling around in his head. Standing he turned entering the cottage again. Looking at Harlow he wondered. Could it be? He had been heading towards the ancients sacred arch. Could the stories really be true? Moving across the room he sat quietly in the chair beside her cot. It had become his favorite as of late. Anything that was close to her, didn’t matter where.
Reaching out to push back curl to look at her. She really was stunning. Ivory skin with a dotting of freckles. Her mass of red ginger ringlets that seemed to possess a life of their own, reached all the way down her back. He loved to touch, and twirl his fingers in it. She seemed to enjoy it too, an audible hmmm always followed. This past week he started to wonder was it her the reason he was drawn to her or the magick of the True Mate. It was giving him pause on the ceremony. With what Cormac had just said it added to the building pressure. In the end he knew he would do what needed to be done. He just didn’t want to hurt her. He had to plan things just right.
Then there was the thing about Aidan, and he training her? What was that all about? He could only guess. That man sometimes spoke in more riddles than the elders did. They were the creepy ones you never crossed. Shivering at the thought, he shook his head to dislodge it. He would try what was suggested to see what it was all about. He just had to figure the meaning behind taking leeway with ceremony, and rearrange it. He would have to ask Aidan if he had any ideas.
Suddenly she was angry. Her cheeks darkened in a heated blush. Gritting her teeth she spoke through her teeth.
“That bastard is dead I hope. He disappeared before Rowan’s birth.”
Oh, maybe he should stop with the questions for now. She seemed to be emotionally all over the place. Perhaps food, and drink were a better idea.
“I have something for you to eat, and drink if you’d like Harlow.”
He liked her name. Liked how it sounded as he said it. She seemed to think the same saying, her posture relaxing, and a small smile touching her lips.
“I like the way you say my name. Yes, I’d like some food please.”
Slowly she eased herself up into a better sitting position.
“What would you like first?”
Hesitating a moment she said.
“Drink please.”
Handing her the drink he picked up a small piece of meat. Taking the cup when she was finished he held the meat to her lips. His heart sang when she opened her mouth and took the meat. Moaning as she chewed slowly. Licking her lips when she was done.
“Can I have some more? That was wonderful. I’ve never tasted something so full of flavor.”
“Of course.”
Holding another piece to her lips the cycle continued til she had eaten, and drank everything he had prepared for her. With her eyes drooping he helped her to lay back down.
“Rest Harlow. I’ll be here when you wake up.”
“Mmmm” was her weak response before producing a light little snore.
Sitting back he was surprised how much he enjoyed feeding her by hand. He also had an inkling that was not something she was used to but enjoyed it all the same. Was it because it was him? He sure hoped so. His mind quickly wandered to the mention, she had a son off at training. Where was he training, and with whom? What responsibilities? At least no mate or father in the picture. He would have to get the full story on that though. Perhaps he should wait till she was ready to share it with him. She likely wouldn’t remember any of her ramblings later if she was having trouble with her memories.
What troubled him when she expressed anger, was fear, panic, and shame beneath the surface. Every emotion she had showed across her face. He saw them there clear as day even if they were just a flicker. She should never have those feelings let alone they linger for fifteen years or more. Mates are to be protected and loved. Determination filled him as he promised her he would be there for her. That, never again would she feel fear, panic, or shame.
This was how the rest of the week continued. He cared for her daily while she rested, and continued to heal. Each sharing a little touch here or a caress there. Each day is better than the one before. They each learned a little about the other in their daily conversations. The more they shared, and the closer they got, it was as if the magick string tying them together was getting ever shorter. While he was not shy about staring, and checking her out. She would study him when she thought he wasn’t looking. He liked the idea she found him attractive, even with her limited vision. That seemed to gradually improve day by day.
He loved the way she always blushed under his touch. The way she touched him hesitant but curious would always send a zinging thrill through him. What would they be like together? He always wondered. Her reaction to her son's father gave him pause every time he wanted to take things further. Chances were she was not treated well. One's partner should always be cherished. He wanted to kill any man who dared hurt her. He would just have to bide his time and wait.
Curiosity was growing daily though, he suspected however she had no memory of her first ramblings. Revealing she had a son or the death of her dearest friend. She tended to repeat things, however never that first conversation. Not sure how to broach the topic again he let it be for now. This time spent together just the two of them was perfect. Tomorrow he planned on showing her his favorite places around Cormac’s little cottage. She was able to make out enough things if they were close. Plus she had hinted many times about being stir crazy. Whatever that was, he wasn’t sure. If he had to guess from the repetitiveness of the statement, she wanted out of bed.
Perhaps if she was up to it they could go further, and introduce her to the village. He didn’t like the idea of sharing her with anyone though. Seeing as they hadn’t heard a word about her, and no attacks had come against her. He figured it was time. He wanted her to see his home. Still, caution was needed. They always needed to be prepared.
Especially since he still didn’t know what had happened to her or how to leave her in the condition he found her in. Plus her memory was still out of reach for her. Then there was the fact she so resembled Neera. In looks only, Harlow differed by being a sweet caring person, whereas Neera was a tall slender harpy. Who only thought of herself, and what she could gain from others. No matter what, her followers would turn a blind eye to the differences. Placing Harlow who was shorter but by far sexier in his opinion, in danger. Grateful then he and the fellow members of Ravens Night had agreed to secretly keep watch. Looking out after Mate as well as monitoring the known followers of Neera. Thus easing some of his worries so he could then focus solely on her.
Chapter Eleven
Harlow woke feeling well rested, and happier than she had been in a long time. Her time spent with Kieran while she healed was absolutely lovely. Other than her twin brother, and her son no man had ever treated her with any kindness. Well, there was Giant that recently could be put into that category. Even then though no man had truly cared for her this way. Feeding her, caring for her, and touching her. Those accidental grazes, and the soft touches every so often always set her blood on fire.
Bolting up right she realized she just remembered. She had a twin brother. How could someone forget that? Rubbing her head for a nonexistent hurt. She remembered they must be protected at all costs, her insides were screaming at her. They were her only family left. She would use the skills her sibling had taught her as best she could. Until she had all her memories back however she couldn’t be sure of anything. Was she looking for them or them her? Or could it be both? For now, though they would have to keep her little secret, at least till her memory returned.
Now who was this other person? Trying to remember why she could remember Giant. Not a name, but a description of the man who had helped her. With what she wasn’t sure. Only she had decided he was now family, and to be treated as such. Thumping her fist down on the cot in frustration. This was becoming a routine for her as of late. This trying was getting her nowhere, instead she took in her surroundings.
It was then she realized she could see perfectly clearly too. Having almost given up hope that her vision would return to normal. Taking her time she looked around the room. Taking in where she had been living. It was different from anything she had ever seen before. Furniture was crafted out of wood, as were the walls, ceiling, and floors. Even the area she assumed was the kitchen was simple but practically functional. She could attest to that having eaten throughout the week. The food was wonderful, and so tasty. Never had she eaten meals so full of flavor.
Looking closer all the pieces of furniture seemed to be crafted by hand. Tool marks could be seen here, and there, adding character to the piece. The skill, and knowledge that went into creating such things were evident in each, and everyone. This person was very talented. Fabrics like she’d never seen before were also dotted around the place. Some were bright, and colorful while others were plain.
Excitement grew while her heart beat a little faster the more she saw. She noticed at the far end opposite her, that there must be windows, the fabric covering them was moving in the wind. Without thinking she jumped up only to get tangled in her blankets from the cot, and face planting onto the floor. Pausing to unravel herself, and center her breathing, she then stood and rushed to the door.
Grabbing a hold of the large handle, pulling with all her might, she swung the door open. Stumbling a little at the ease in which it opened. She wasn’t used to opening a door this way, nor the surprise that greeted her on the other side. The large yellow sun blazing its light stung her eyes. Gasping at the surprise and discomfort she cupped her hands around her eyes. Stepping over the threshold her jaw dropped in utter shock. Trees, lots, and lots of fresh green trees. Ignoring the burn from the brightness she rushed down the cottage steps, tilting her head up. There was a clear blue sky up there with a brightly shining sun, with a scattering of white fluffy clouds.
“Wow”
With excitement, she turned to look at the cottage where she had spent her last week. Another work of art, truly. Crafted of logs, and what she guessed was called a thatched roof. Books were wonderful tools to learn things from. But seeing with your own eyes was a wonder to behold, seeing was believing.
It was rather large in its setting, though perfectly settled. A building that looked as if over time was added to when rooms were needed. Somewhere in the back of her mind, she knew that this building seemed out of its time somehow, like her it didn’t belong. Shaking off the thought, the trees surrounding the cottage seemed to be embracing it in a protective hug. With the exception of the small clearing in the front where she stood by the front steps. Remembering the curiosity of trees, she whipped around only to collide with a solid wall of muscle. Big strong arms wrapped around her. Instead instant panic, desire filled her.
“Kieran.”
Laughing as he spoke.
“Careful there little one. Where are you off to in such a hurry?”
Inhaling deep. She loved his scent, it did crazy things to her. Trying to free herself but enjoying his hold just the same. Opening her mouth to answer him, a moan came out instead. Which had him responding instantly by tightening his hold, and what she thought was him smelling her hair. Looking up with her brow furrowed, she asked.
“Did you just sniff my hair?”
Relaxing once she got a good look at him.
She could truly see him. He was beautiful, but ruff. A large man with a kind heart. Sensing he carried many burdens. Tilting her head she studied his face. A few scares here, and there decorated his face. Reaching up with her hand she felt his jaw, and the little bit of stubble there. She rather liked it, smiling at the thought. She noticed he had arched his brow. Shy, she ducked her head. Never being this bold before she wasn’t sure on protocol.
As he lifted her chin with his hooked finger. He asked, looking softly in the eyes.
“See something you like?”
Unable to speak she simply nodded her head yes enthusiastically, before blushing a deep scarlet. Not liking his response. She pushed against him, freeing herself with a huff. Remembering the trees she marched towards them. Taking in their beauty she took a deep inhale. Clean, earthy, and sweet, just like in her dreams. Gently running her fingers along the bark of the tree trunks, needles, and leaves. She was amazed, even these too were the same too. If that were so, was she dreaming? Whirling around to face Kieran with her hand to her chest. She loudly asked, fearing his answer.
“Am I dreaming?”
Confusion covered his face.
“Dreaming? No.”
As he shook his head. Stretching his arm to her,
“Come. I want to show you my favorite place. It’s very close to here.”
Taking his outstretched hand feeling his warmth as he closed it within his own. Together they made their way around the cottage along a footpath. Full of worry, and fear she tried her best to hide it. Where was she, and what had happened to her. The more she tried to bottle it up, and push it down the worse it got. She was starting to shake.
When Kieran announced proudly.
“Here it is.”
He pulled her forward to stand in front of him, resting his large hands on her shoulders.
Having been stuck in her own head on the way here she hadn’t seen much. So it took a few moments for her eyes to focus on where he had taken her. Gasping in shock she covered her mouth with her hand. It wasn’t possible. However Kieran took her gasp differently.
As he moved around her speaking
“I know right. It truly is a wonder, and so peaceful, and free.”
As he slowly spun around. Sharing a side of himself again, no one else was privileged to see.
Putting one foot in front of the other, she moved her way into the clearing. The very same clearing with two centric circles of stones. A place she only thought she made up in her dreams after reading way too many romance books combined with her other literature. This was a real place, and she was here in it. But how? Her head was starting to hurt again. Frowning, she rubbed her temple. Looking at Kieran she asked.
“What is this place?”
With his arms out wide, and a grin from ear to ear.
“Why, this is our sacred grove. A place for ceremonies, gatherings, and handling of affairs.”
This time he really looked at her. Concern marring his face.
“What is it, little one? What’s wrong?”
Rushing to her side, and quickly picking her up into his arms. Before strolling to the stone circle to sit on one.
Pushing one of her curls aside. He continued to twirl it saying “tell me.”
Taking a deep breath she wasn’t sure what to say, and was shocked when she blurted out.
“I’ve been here before.”
At his confused look she continued on. Telling him about her many dreams over the years. Most were the same over, and over again. Lately though they had been changing, different really. Still the same people, but older, aging. Then there was the battle, as she went into more, and more detail. Kieran became bigger, and harder somehow. It was strange. Stopping to ask.
“Kieran are you alright?”
Tilting her head realization struck her like being hit over the head. Jumping from his lap she cried.
“You. It was you. I’ve been dreaming of you.”
Taking a few deep breaths she asked him.
“Why?”
Kieran just shook his head slowly before he answered.
“I know not little one.”
She knew instantly he was lying or at least not telling a whole truth. Her memory was foggy, but this rang a bell for her. Now knowing what it was like to be on the other side. She didn’t like it. What had she lied about, and to whom, and was Kieran doing it now. Instead of asking, hoping someday he would tell her the truth. She just accepted his answer, and asked.
“Can we go back? I’m getting a little tired, and hungry.”
Slowly he stood taking her hand.
“Of course, little one. Don’t worry we'll figure this out.”
Nodding in agreement she let him lead her once again. Having not paid attention getting here she had no idea where here actually was. Or let alone where the cottage was. How did she get herself into this pickle of a mess? What was she to do now? With a thumping in her head growing, she decided to let the worry be tomorrow's problem. She should just enjoy her time with Kieran.
When Harlow had drifted off after their meal, he snuck outside to the porch. Cormac sat there on the steps keeping his hands busy. The man could never just sit still; he had to be doing something. He would always say ‘a man who does nothing is useless.’ So he created wonderful things out of wood with whatever tool he could. The only exception to the rule was talking, a good conversation had to have undecided attention. Rolling his eyes as he laughed internally. He sat down beside his Shaman. Looking ahead he stared at the trees that had fascinated her so.
“So has she told you then?”
Confused he turned, and watched the hands at work creating three interlocking open triangles encasing a crescent moon. When he asked.
“Has she told me what?”
Shaking his head in confusion. The old man seemed to always be one step ahead. Likely his gift of sight. Though he suspected that was not always the case. He did have a way that allowed people to open up to him. Though he suspected this time it was not the case.
“When she’s from?”
Replying “N…” before it registers what he had been asked.
“What do you mean when? Isn’t it where?”
Now he was curious, what did the man know? There obviously was a great deal of magick at work here. Which put him on edge a little.
Putting down his carving he turned to look directly at Kieran.
“No, I do mean when. You need to get her to open up to you, and fast. She may not like it, but you don’t have a lot of time. I’m telling you this only once. She is the KEY, and needs to be protected, and treasured. Your road will not be easy. You will also have to take some leeway with the ceremony, and rearrange the order a bit.”
With that he rose, snapping fingers making the tools, and carving disappeared. Turning to look down at Kieran.
“Oh I almost forgot. Have Aidan with you to train her. Their gifts will align well. Gotta go, later.”
With a two finger salute he vanished in lightning a pop. That man had the oddest way of speaking sometimes. It was like he was from a different time. Time, that word kept rolling around in his head. Standing he turned entering the cottage again. Looking at Harlow he wondered. Could it be? He had been heading towards the ancients sacred arch. Could the stories really be true? Moving across the room he sat quietly in the chair beside her cot. It had become his favorite as of late. Anything that was close to her, didn’t matter where.
Reaching out to push back curl to look at her. She really was stunning. Ivory skin with a dotting of freckles. Her mass of red ginger ringlets that seemed to possess a life of their own, reached all the way down her back. He loved to touch, and twirl his fingers in it. She seemed to enjoy it too, an audible hmmm always followed. This past week he started to wonder was it her the reason he was drawn to her or the magick of the True Mate. It was giving him pause on the ceremony. With what Cormac had just said it added to the building pressure. In the end he knew he would do what needed to be done. He just didn’t want to hurt her. He had to plan things just right.
Then there was the thing about Aidan, and he training her? What was that all about? He could only guess. That man sometimes spoke in more riddles than the elders did. They were the creepy ones you never crossed. Shivering at the thought, he shook his head to dislodge it. He would try what was suggested to see what it was all about. He just had to figure the meaning behind taking leeway with ceremony, and rearrange it. He would have to ask Aidan if he had any ideas.
