Trial of a Warrior

by Mary Morgan

  He took a step near her. “Just to be clear, Rory and I asked Conn to help us thwart the evil monster and the druid, Lachlan. We concluded he would eventually try to fight the battle on his own, so we presented him with a solution. Nevertheless, you have not said how you knew I was in prison. Did Conn tell you?”

  Her hands clenched together, crushing the berries. “No. On my first transgression, I used my own magic and those of the temple to search for you within the realm. It took many days of solitude and concentration to find you.” I did not eat, drink, or sleep during that time, but you shall never know. And then I heard the whispered words of your transgression and death penalty.

  He cupped her chin. “Why?”

  The juice of the berries dripped from her hands. “I already told you. I had no wish to see you die.”

  Gently, he stroked her bottom lip with his thumb. “One day you will tell me the true reason, Abela.”

  Liam withdrew his hand and strode toward the standing stones.

  Her body trembled not from his touch, but from his words. Why did her resolve always weaken around the man? “You would flee the moment you heard the truth, Liam MacGregor, just like you did so many years ago.”

  With a flick of her wrists, the stains from the fruit vanished from her hands and this time, Abela slammed the door on her emotions.

  Chapter Ten

  “The second kiss awoke a passion that had been dormant, and I could no longer contain the emotional bleeding.”

  ~Diary of Princess Abela

  Lifting her hand, Abela waited for Liam to make the incision. She winced slightly at the pain. “The year 844 in Ireland and to the great Niall, correct?”

  “Yes, though I fear what we might expect from the man. I do not want to do battle with a man on the path of his new-found religion.”

  She smeared her blood on the base of the tallest standing stone. “Do not all beliefs guide one to love? And to the great spirit?”

  “It is what the druids state.”

  As she straightened, Abela sealed the wound. “Let us remain positive.” Removing her pendant, she nodded to Liam.

  The first brush of power caused her to stagger when he began to chant the words. She tried to keep her focus centered, but her thoughts drifted. The wind bellowed like a banshee, and she became giddy, embracing the magic. Take me home, Ireland.

  “Concentrate,” ordered Liam, placing a protective arm around her waist.

  She blinked, trying to see the landscape as he pulled her through the vortex. Lights mirroring the hues of rainbows encircled them. Whispers of other realms tickled her skin, and she giggled.

  “Control your emotions,” demanded Liam, his breath hot against her cheek. “If you continue to waver, we will fall into the abyss.”

  “I cannot…”

  “Bring forth your training!”

  Abela shook her head to get rid of the luring images, and she drew her gaze toward the stone. It glowed with the power of the ancients. Onward they traveled along a path she could no longer see. “You must be my eyes,” she shouted. Her legs began to tremble as the land beneath them sprouted vines to snatch at them from below.

  His protest echoed all around them, and Liam lifted her into his arms. “Keep holding the pendant in front of us!”

  She raised her head. Help us, Mother Danu. Do not let us fail.

  A sudden burst of power propelled them through the vortex, and they landed in a meadow of wildflowers. The heady floral scent engulfed Abela, and she stretched her arms outward, caressing the petals. She remained flat on the ground, unable to speak or open her eyes. Bees hummed around her, and she smiled.

  “Liam,” she uttered in a hoarse voice.

  “Here,” he announced, tucking her against his body. “Pain?”

  “I am floating.”

  “Center yourself, feel the land, breathe the air.”

  She giggled again.

  “Now, release the energy back into the ground.” He stroked a finger across her cheek.

  “What if I don’t want to?”

  “Abela, I will only ask once.” His tone even more severe this time.

  “You’re no fun,” she huffed out, but complied. Keeping her palms on the soft grass and flowers, she eased the residual power from the pendant into the ground. A chill came over her, and she shivered. Opening her eyes, she smiled at him. “That was lovely.”

  “No it was not,” argued Liam, and took her hand into his. His look was one of concern.

  “What happened?” she whispered.

  He laced his fingers with hers. “You were beginning to fade.”

  She let out a choked sob. “I could have led us into—”

  “A place of no return,” he interrupted and quickly added, “but you did not. You held us firm until the last few seconds.”

  She struggled to sit up, and Liam placed a firm arm around her shoulders. “Yet, I experienced no pain.”

  “Because we are in Ireland,” he stated. “A part of our home dwells beneath. It is always easier to travel between time and space on this land.”

  A soft whinny alerted them they were not alone. Abela twisted to view the intruder. The horse grazed several feet away, paying no heed to them.

  “How fortuitous. Don’t you agree, Liam?”

  Standing, he held out his hand to her. “It depends on if he has an owner.”

  She accepted his assistance and stood. “Regardless, he is here, and we require transportation.” She waved her hand outward, and her cloak appeared. Placing the garment around her shoulders, she peered at Liam. “Can you tell the year?”

  “Not exactly and I’m unsure of our location.”

  One of these times, I’m going to lead us precisely to our destination. She strode past Liam and approached the horse. She dipped her head and raised her hand. “Greetings, my friend.”

  The horse shook his head and moved forward for her touch.

  “Ahh…so you were abandoned? A fine animal to be left on your own. I see plenty of food, fresh air, and the land to roam.”

  “Do share why we require a horse to transport us?” asked Liam, approaching from the side.

  “I hate to divulge this, but I am too weak to magically escort us to the Niall.”

  Worry creased his brow. “You need rest. Since our journey began there has been none.”

  “Yes, if only for one night.” She continued to soothe the horse with her touch, ignoring Liam’s penetrating gaze. “And yes, I am able to maintain the shield around us.”

  “We should have remained at Urquhart,” he protested, moving away.

  Anxiety clawed at her. Abela did not know how much longer she would be able to control the shield. She prayed it would hold until they completed their last quest, and then she could return them both to the Fae realm.

  “Should we ride for a while to determine our location?”

  Liam glanced in all directions. “The Niall’s home was north, so that’s where we will journey.”

  Abela turned to the west and sniffed the air. “I sense the sea is near.”

  Letting out a groan, Liam retraced his steps. “Follow me.”

  “Why do I think we are nowhere near the Niall,” she muttered to the horse.

  They traveled for several miles finally reaching a dirt path, and she dismounted. The salty tang of the ocean teased her senses as they made their way into a wooded area of thick pines and a narrow path. Liam kept silent during their journey, glancing back at her every so often. After giving him a reassuring smile she was well, he would venture onward.

  Brushing away pine branches, she made sure her new friend was not lingering on the path and paused long enough for the horse to nudge her gently on the back. Soon, Liam’s curses removed the smile from her face.

  Abela made quick strides, jumping over a fallen log, and emerging forth from the trees. What greeted her was not to be expected. Yet, she was neither surprised. She lifted her face to the soft sea breeze and warmth of the sunlight. “We’re o
n the west coast of Ireland.”

  “Correct,” confirmed Liam.

  “Instead of the east coast, the home of the Niall.”

  “Bravo, princess.”

  By the hounds, how she hated when he referred to her in that sarcastic tone. So far, you have struck out on all your destinations. I wonder how long it took any Fenian Warrior to manage traveling through the Veil.

  The horse snorted behind her in obvious amusement to their situation. She pointed a warning finger at the animal. “It shall be a long arduous journey to make our true destination, so do not speak to me in that manner.”

  Liam stormed past her and retreated into the woods. “Are you coming?”

  She nodded reluctantly and followed him.

  As the late afternoon sun settled behind them, Liam came to an abrupt halt. Several cottages stood out in stark contrast to the rolling hills of lush grasses and flowers. Sheep grazed in a large pen nearby. Wood smoke drifted by them, and he lowered his head on a sigh.

  Regret filled her when she realized they were most likely in the wrong century. Stepping near him, she shielded her eyes to inspect the view. “Sorry.” It was the first time she’d uttered an apology in decades.

  “Not your fault.” He glanced sideways at her. “Remember, unskilled.” And his gaze danced with mirth and not with a scolding.

  “What now?”

  He pointed to the south. “See the structure beyond the cottages?”

  “Yes. The one without a roof?”

  “This is where we shall spend the night.”

  “But…but should we not attempt to go back to the stones?” Abela blurted out. The idea of spending an entire night in Liam's company made her cheeks burn.

  Without warning, Liam lifted her into his arms and placed her on the horse. “I will not risk going through the Veil so soon. As I’ve stated before, you—”

  She raised a brow in argument.

  “Let me clarify. We require rest and food, if only for part of the evening.”

  Satisfied with his correction, Abela smiled. “It would be lovely to sit for a while and gain strength from the land.”

  “Good. Then we are in agreement.”

  Abela waved him forward. “Lead on, my warrior.”

  He inclined his head. “By your command.”

  She chuckled softly as they followed Liam away from the cottages and dirt path. Her horse gave no objection when the warrior led them across a small stream, steadily making their way to the ruins of a cottage. By the time they approached the place, the last ray of light danced off the white and gray stones.

  Liam eased her gently from the animal. “I am going for food and water. Make yourself comfortable inside.”

  Startled he was leaving her, she grabbed his tunic. “What if there are humans living inside?”

  He placed a comforting hand over hers, warm and strong. “I magically inspected the cottage before I mentioned it earlier.”

  “Oh.” She bit her lower lip, feeling foolish.

  After releasing his hold, he gave the horse a pat. “Guard the princess in my absence. For your services, I shall return with food for you.”

  The horse stomped the ground and ambled toward the side of the cottage.

  Abela pulled her cloak more firmly around her body as she watched Liam dart away. “Do not tarry.”

  She turned and surveyed the cottage. Ivy and moss trailed a path within the crevices of the stones. There were no shutters in the window and the door was broken, hanging to the side.

  Entering the small structure, she lifted her palm. “Illuminate.” Light shimmered inside, banishing the shadows. Rats scurried from their protective places, angry at her intrusion. With a wave of her hand, she removed the cobwebs and dust inside the interior. Broken pottery littered the place, and the room was void of any furniture, so they would have to be content with sitting against the wall.

  She tapped a finger in thought. A fire would bring warmth and cast out the dreariness. Walking to the hearth, she held her hands outward. “Fire and flame, spark the light, let no others witness the bright.”

  Flames burst forth from the charred wooden remains. Placing her hands outward, Abela allowed the warmth to seep into her. Liam was correct. Her body was weary from all their travels. All she longed for was a few hours of sleep, and they could be on their way.

  Settling down near the blazing fire, Abela stretched out her legs. She watched the flames spark up through the aged chimney. A year ago, she was in the peaceful, bucolic womb of the Fae realm. Never had she imagine this incredible journey. The human world was indeed a strange and complex land. Yes, there was beauty, but it was raw and untamed. In truth, she prayed they would not have to travel to anymore human realms. A prickle of unease developed within her. Her shield of protection was fading over them.

  “Oh, please let this be our final destination.”

  Liam startled her when he stepped inside the cottage, and she drew forth her dirk.

  He eyed her skeptically. “Are you preparing for a battle?”

  She quickly sheathed her blade at her side. “It’s always best to be on guard in strange surroundings.”

  Dumping a satchel on the ground, he removed his sword and sat down next to her. He proceeded to pull out bread, apples, cheese, and a flask. “We have landed in the late 17th century. I procured our fare from a nearby farm, along with another stray horse.”

  Reaching for an apple, she drew forth a sgian dubh from her boot and sliced off a piece. Praise the Goddess for another animal. “Do you know who has the treaty in this century?”

  His expression was a mask of stone as he tore into the bread. “Yes.”

  Abela waited for him to finish and tell her who this person was, but he continued to eat in silence. The bit of apple lodged in her throat, and she reached for the flask. Taking a sip, she sputtered in disgust. “Sweet Mother Goddess. What foul liquid did you bring back?”

  Liam took the flask from her hand and sniffed the contents. “The mortal's version of ale.”

  “I suggest we dump the remaining contents and fill it with water from the nearby stream. This is horrid.”

  Liam stood abruptly and made for the door.

  “At least wait until after you have eaten. I did not intend for you to rush off and do my bidding,” she pleaded.

  “No worries,” he replied, leaving her once again.

  Reaching for the loaf of bread, she tore off a piece and slumped back against the wall. A wolf howled in the distance. Be gone from this place. She waited for a few minutes, sensing the animal’s indecision to venture near them, and then he turned in the opposite direction from the cottage.

  “Wise choice,” she mumbled.

  Liam soon returned with fresh water. Maintaining his vigil of silence, her nerves twisted like vines within her stomach. Tossing her apple core into the fire, she turned toward him. “Who has the treaty in this century?”

  “Tinkers. Specifically, the O’Malley of the Irish Travelers. He is their leader and descended from the Niall.”

  Abela shuddered visibly. “Say no more. I’ve heard the accounts of how certain travelers have attempted to steal the powers from the Fae during the centuries, especially those of Fenian Warriors.”

  He regarded her with intensity. “So if you have heard the tales, imagine when they realize you are royalty. This particular leader was known for his cruelty toward anyone who could see or speak to the Fae. The holy wells precious to the Fae were guarded by his own people. They spied on any who they thought could communicate with us.”

  Swallowing the lump in her throat, Abela glanced into the firelight. “What do you suggest?”

  Liam rubbed a hand vigorously over his face. “A couple ideas. We could stay for a few days until you regain your strength and then return through the stones.”

  She did not like the first option and feared what she had to tell Liam. “Tell me the other one.”

  “We attempt a meeting with the O’Malley. I deem it unwise,
though.”

  “Let’s take our chances with him,” she suggested, placing her blade back within her boot. “As soon as possible. My protection over us is fading. To attempt another passage through the stones in my weakened condition will most likely shatter my shields and alert everyone to our presence.”

  “All right. Furthermore, if we are to meet the O’Malley, I want you fully rested. Not only is he shrewd and calculating, but extremely observant.”

  Abela could only nod. The strain of the past few days had now reached its zenith. In truth, it began when she made the decision to defy everything and everyone to rescue Liam. Weeks of preparation, fraught with meticulous details had gone into her planning. Leaving little time for sleep or food.

  “Lean your head against my shoulder,” Liam encouraged, his breath a warm caress across her cheek.

  Mumbling a word of thanks, Abela complied and drifted off to sleep.

  Chapter Eleven

  “Upon entering the Brotherhood, I silenced the luring seduction of her lips. If I required pleasure, I sought my release in the Pleasure Gardens.”

  ~Chronicles of Liam MacGregor

  As he stared into the flames, Liam contemplated their plan with the O’Malley. Never would he have imagined ever having to bargain with the leader of the travelers. He was a ruthless man and would do anything to achieve power. The man would require something of value from him in return for the treaty. Had he not made a vow with the man that he would seek nothing from him? He gritted his teeth at the long-forgotten memory.

  Liam dusted his hands off and surveyed the edge of the hill. His captors were sent scurrying in various directions. “You may think you’ve saved my life, but you are in error.”

  O’Malley scraped the dirt from his fingernails with his dirk. “Ye are wrong, my Fae friend. I could have sat back and let those men rip the limbs from your body.”

  “Seriously?” He folded his arms over his chest. “With a single thought, I could have banished them from this place.”

  The man gave him a passing glance and shoved his dirk into his belt. “And show your powers? I think not.”

  “Do not underestimate your foe, O’Malley,” warned Liam.