Call of the Wylde

by Cynnara Tregarth

  “Hmm, sounds intriguing. Anything in particular?”

  “Only the history of vampires,” Colette responded flippantly. She didn’t want Riana involved in this.

  “Then you’re going to want to make a stop at the Cairo Museum, then a quick dip to Ireland, then probably off to Mexico.”

  “What?” She shook her head. It couldn’t be this easy. There’s no way in hell it could be this easy. “What do you mean go to Ireland and Mexico after a stop at the Cairo Museum? What the fuck do you know about vampires?”

  “A lot more than most. I know you’re a Van Helsinger, Sis. I know a lot about the vampire community here in Europe as well as some of the other supernatural races. I’m paid to know these things. More importantly, it’s a requirement of being the High Priestess to Morrigu.”

  Colette grabbed at the pen and paper on the nightstand to her left. “Where in both places?”

  “At the Cairo Museum, ask for Ola Mahdi. She’s a friend, historian, and vampire.”

  “Ola is a vampire? How the hell did I miss that?”

  “Because you didn’t ask or know the signs. Think about that for a moment.”

  Picturing the woman with long black hair and almond brown eyes, Colette realized that she had given away her true nature by the way she moved and anticipated the needs of others. “Fuck, I can’t believe I never realized it.”

  “And she’s loyal to Thoth, Isis, and the Avalonian goddesses. Give her a call. She can give you the background as far as she’s researched it in Egypt. It’s her pet project.”

  “And in Ireland?”

  “Eileen can meet you in Dublin with all of the known information from there. You won’t be able to take the person you’re working for to the place in question. It won’t be allowed unless I’m there. So, the information will be brought to you.”

  “Great. Just fucking great. You know everything, I take it.”

  “Actually, no, I don’t. I just know enough to get you started,” Riana countered. “I don’t know the specifics, just where certain things lead from and to. I don’t have the details at all or the reasons why.”

  “Sometimes, I want to wring your neck. Why haven’t you told anyone about this?” “Why didn’t anyone ask me?” Sighing, Colette wrote a note to call Eileen and get the information. “Next place?” “Mexico. This is harder as one of my contacts died a couple weeks ago.” “Who?” “Dr. Antonio Medallano.” Colette paused. “Tony is gone?” “Yes. He was murdered near Chichen Itza. I think it’s because he was seeking out the same

  information you were.” Riana’s voice shook with anger and regret. “His wife, Cicely, has his notes and such. She was going to send them to me when I get back from this trip. You can go get them. Keep them safe and only share what’s necessary.”

  “He’s gone. Vampires?”

  “Yes.” The word sounded harsh to Colette’s ears and she knew why. Riana and Tony had been friends for the longest time, both having met while in college. She was the godmother of his twin boys, whom she spoiled at every opportunity. They had shared their beliefs and magickal training as well. They were bound by blood and soul. This loss had to be killing her inside. I can’t believe she didn’t tell me before this. Then again, I’ve been single-minded on my pursuit, I don’t know if I’d have heard it.

  “I’m sorry, Sis. I know it’s hard for you.” “Yes. But if you find Tony’s killer, you have the right to take him out. Do so. For me, for

  Tony.” “Done.” Colette paused, trying to find the words. “Are you going to be okay?” “I’m always okay. Don’t worry about me. I’ll call you two days in, like always, unless

  something happens.” “Okay. Tell Eileen to get those notes together for me. I’ve got to figure out how to tell Owain about this.”

  “Owain? The missing brother from the wedding?” “Yes.” Riana’s chuckle had Colette grinning. “I see. A vampire has fucked you now, too. Sheesh,

  what is it with my nemeton being sucked in by vampires?” “Oh, funny, Sis. Funny.” Shaking her head at Riana’s pun, Colette moved to the side of the bed. It was time to get moving. “Okay, anything else I need to know?” “I’ll be safe. Make use of the nemeton if you need to. Stay safe and if you get killed, I will bring

  you back somehow and beat the fuck out of you, got it?” “Yes, mom. Sheesh. You’d think I’m not trained to protect myself.” “Well, this isn’t going to be easy for you, I think. Sis, just be careful, okay?” “Mionnaigh mé.” “Talk at you in two days.” “Love you.” “Love you too, Sis.” Colette hung up and placed the phone on the nightstand. Stretching, she

  allowed the information to filter into her mind. Somehow, it shouldn’t surprise her that her soul sister would know of this stuff and take it in stride.

  First things first, though. She needed a shower, clothes and then to find the hot vampire to relay the news. Once that was done, they could make their way to Cairo Museum. Satisfied with her plan of action, she scurried to the shower.

  * * *

  “Deárthaír, what have you learned?” Owain sat at his computer with the web cam turned on.

  “Besides that you’re a pain in the ass? Not much. I do know that the torc and Colette are meant for you.” Niam smiled at his brother. “We missed you at the wedding. Perhaps when things are settled, you’ll come for a holiday.”

  “I might at that. The torc glowed when I said the words while she wore it.” “See.” “But if she doesn’t love me unconditionally—“ “Tá a fhios agam, mo dheartháir. What are your plans?” “I’m waiting for some information from a cûntoír. Then, I’ll know where we’ll be heading

  next.” Owain smiled. “She’s agreed to help me with my research.”

  “Good. You need someone who can keep up with what you want. Otherwise, how are you?”

  Owain debated whether to tell the truth, but decided that Niam would know anyway. “Very good, considering last night.”

  Niam’s brow rose. “I don’t wanna know. I don’t. Kirstie sends her love to Colette. You’re to tell her so and you’re to be a good vampire and not bite Colette.”

  “Well, damn, ruin my fun.”

  “Owain—“

  “I’ve not bitten her. I won’t unless she agrees to it. You know how the blood exchange works, Niam.” Owain heard a noise above him. “She’s up. I’ll let you go. Once I know where we’re headed, I’ll give you or Miach a head’s up.”

  “Keep her safe. Miach will have your head otherwise.”

  “He doesn’t like cocks.”

  “I’m not going to tell Casper you said that.” Niam’s eyes sparkled in mischief. “But I might tell Micheal Padraig.”

  “Go for it. I’m not afraid of our older deárthaír.”

  “Keep safe and hopefully you’ll find the answers to your questions, Owain.”

  “Enjoy the married life with your wife. We want nieces and nephews. Lots of them.”

  “I’ll have to go and try again.” Niam grinned wickedly. “It’s a hardship but I’m man enough for the task.”

  “Talk later.” With that, Owain shut off the web cam and logged out of the Marauder system. “Time to see what the woman is doing.”

  Climbing up the stairs, he could hear her in the kitchen making something to eat. He had been up for a couple of hours and had already taken care of his vampiric needs. The scent of onions, peppers, and something else being browned caused his stomach to grumble.

  “I see you’ve finally gotten up,” Owain said as he stepped behind her, kissing the back of her neck. Her scent teased at his nostrils. “What are you making?”

  “Not quite sure, probably fajitas. You have all the makings. I’m going to add the steak slices, then while it cooks, the tortillas need to be warmed up.”

  “I’ll do that. Did you sleep well?”

  “Very much, thanks. And you?”

  “I slept enough.”

  Colette looked at him. “My best friend called me this morning and gave me some information regardi
ng some places to look for research. We have a three o’clock appointment to see Dr. Ola Mahdi at Cairo Museum.”

  “Oh?” Owain’s brow lifted. He wasn’t sure he liked that someone else knew of the research project. “What all did you tell your best friend.”

  “She’s my soul sister. I told her I was with you, she knows about Niam and Kirstie. She’s part of my nemeton.”

  “I see.”

  “Told her I was looking into the history of vampires. I didn’t tell her why or what about it. She gave me some references.” Colette explained more about what Riana had shared. “See, she doesn’t know why we’re doing this, just that we’re looking into the history.”

  “Dr. Medallano is dead?” Owain swore softly. “He was a good man.”

  “You knew him?”

  “He was a good friend to the family.” Seeing the expression on her face, he continued. “No, he didn’t know what we are. Tony knew my brothers Miach and Elathan best. They move in various history circles together.”

  “Then they’d know my sister, Dr. Riana Sinclair.”

  “She’s your best friend?” Owain asked in shock.

  “Yes, why?”

  “That woman comes close to opening up problems when it comes to the ancient Celts.” Owain growled. “There are some things that are not meant to be taught in today’s society.”

  “Why not? How can we learn to avoid the mistakes of old if we don’t know what happened?” Colette placed the fajita mixture in a bowl and placed it on the table where the condiments waited. Then she sat, drink in hand as Owain brought over the warmed tortillas.

  “It’s not that simple.”

  “It’s not that hard. Listen to me, Owain. Riana isn’t exposing anything more than she needs to. Whether you or your brothers like it or not, she’s doing her job as a historian.”

  “But she could accidentally expose us.”

  “She hasn’t yet. And she’s going to be out of circulation for a while.”

  “Oh?”

  “Yeah. Now eat up. We’re going to have to leave in a bit. Cairo traffic is not easy to deal with as I’ve found out the past couple of weeks.”

  They ate in relative silence while speculating on the information that Dr. Mahdi would have.

  Owain found himself enjoying brainstorming with Colette. She had a quick mind that comprehended various aspects that the others in his family just didn’t get. It made a nice change of pace of not having to explain everything.

  Within a half hour, they were on their way to Cairo Museum. What was a vampire doing working for the Egyptian museum? He had no clue, but he was hoping that she’d be able to shed some light on the history of vampires.

  * * *

  They were escorted past many of the ancient artifacts to where Dr. Mahdi was currently overseeing the restoration of a small statue in a back room.

  “Is salaam ‘alaykum. Welcome to Cairo Museum,” the young woman said, spotting the two of them. “Ey rayyik fee da timsaal?” Her hands pointed to the statue of a royal nobleman.

  “Ana baHibb,” Owain answered in fluent Egyptian Arabic. “I like the statue. Can I take it home with me?”

  Ola and Colette laughed while the workers snickered. “Aasifa, ma’adarsh.”

  “Well, damn, ruin my need to possess something of ancient Egypt.”

  “I’m glad to be of service. What can I do for you both?”

  “Riana sent me for some answers to questions we have.”

  Ola nodded. “Understood. Come on, I’ll take you somewhere so we can speak privately. Follow me.” She added some instruction in Arabic to the conservators, then brought them to the back area where her office was located. “It’s not much, but it is private.”

  “Thanks, Ola. I’ve not seen you in a long time.”

  “Five years, I think, Colette. How are you?”

  “I’m fine, but you’ve not aged a day while I look like an old fogey.”

  “Not true, you look beautiful,” Ola stated as she shut the door. “What information do I have that you are needing?”

  Colette explained in brief terms what they were searching for without giving away anything. “So, can you shed any light on this? I know the ancient Egyptians had their own beliefs, but I don’t know if there was any vampires in the mythology.”

  Ola sat back and smiled. “Well, there are the known myths and the unknown myths.”

  “The story of Sekhmet, you mean?” Owain asked. “I’ve been reading that and trying to trace the earliest references to the story.”

  “What are you both talking about?” Colette looked at them both with a slightly confused gaze.

  Ola smiled. “Let me tell you the story of Sekhmet and Ra. In it you’ll hear what is considered by some as the beginning of vampirism in ancient Egypt.”

  Nodding, Colette sat back. “I’m not as fluent in other culture myths as I am about the Celts.”

  “Ah, but our friend Riana knows them all. She’s truly a goddess in her own right.”

  “Don’t tell her that. She’ll be unbearable to live with.”

  They laughed while Owain looked slightly pensive. “Don’t send any ill will towards Dr. Sinclair. She’s truly a wonderful woman and one I trust with my sacred secrets,” Ola stated softly. Calming down, Ola related the story of Sekhmet, the goddess of destruction.

  “Then Ra took on the shape of a man and became the first Pharaoh. He ruled over the whole country for thousands and thousands of years, giving such harvests that for ever after the Egyptians spoke of the good things ‘which happened in the time of Re.’

  “But, being in the form of a man, Ra grew old. In time men no longer feared him or obeyed his laws. They laughed at him, saying ’Look at Ra! His bones are like silver, his flesh like gold, his hair is the colour of lapis lazuli!’

  “Ra was angry when he heard this, and he was angrier still at the evil deeds which men were doing in disobedience to his laws. So he called together the gods whom he had made - Shu and Tefnut and Geb and Nut - and he also summoned Nun. Soon the gods gathered about Ra in his Secret Place, and the goddesses also.

  “But mankind knew nothing of what was happening, and continued to jeer at Ra and to break his commandments. Then Ra spoke to Nun before the assembled gods. ‘Eldest of the gods, you who made me; and you gods whom I have made; look upon mankind who came into being at a glance of my Eye. See how men plot against me; hear what they say of me; tell me what I should do to them; for I will not destroy mankind until I have heard what you advise.’

  “Then Nun said, ‘My son Ra, the god greater than he who made him and mightier than those whom he has created, turn your mighty Eye upon them and send destruction upon them in the form of your daughter, the goddess Sekhmet.’

  “Ra answered, ‘Even now fear is falling upon them and they are fleeing into the desert and hiding themselves in the mountains in terror at the sound of my voice.’

  "‘Send against them the glance of your Eye in the form Sekhmet!’ cried all the other gods and goddesses, bowing before Re until their foreheads touched the ground.

  "Her chief delight was in slaughter, and her pleasure was in blood. So at the terrible glance from the Eye of Ra, his daughter Sekhmet came into being, the fiercest of all goddesses. Like a lion she rushed upon her prey, and her chief delight was in slaughter, and her pleasure was in blood. At the bidding of Ra, she came into Upper and Lower Egypt to slay those who had scorned and disobeyed him. She killed them among the mountains, which lie on either side of the Nile, and down beside the river, and in the burning deserts. All whom she saw she slew, rejoicing in slaughter and the taste of blood.

  “Presently Ra looked out over the land and saw what Sekhmet had done. Then he called to her, saying: ‘Come, my daughter, and tell me how you have obeyed my commands.’

  “Sekhmet answered with the terrible voice of a lioness as she tears her prey, ‘By the life which you have given me, I have indeed done vengeance on mankind, and my heart rejoices.’

  “Now fo
r many nights the Nile ran red with blood, and Sekhmet's feet were red as she went hither and thither through all the land of Egypt slaying and slaying. Presently Ra looked out over the earth once more, and now his heart was stirred with pity for men, even though they had rebelled against him. But none could stop the cruel goddess Sekhmet, not even Ra himself. She must cease from slaying of her own accord -- and Ra saw that this could only come about through cunning.

  “So he gave his command, ‘Bring before me swift messengers who will run upon the earth as silently as shadows and with the speed of the storm winds.’ When these were brought he said to them, ‘Go as fast as you can up the Nile to where it flows fiercely over the rocks and among the islands of the First Cataract; go to the isle that is called Elephantine and bring from it a great store of the red ochre which is to be found there.’

  “The messengers sped on their way and returned with the blood-red ochre to Heliopolis, the city of Ra where stand the stone obelisks with points of gold that are like fingers pointing to the sun. It was night when they came to the city, but all day the women of Heliopolis had been brewing beer as Ra bade them.

  “Ra came to where the beer stood waiting in seven thousand jars, and the gods came with him to see how by his wisdom he would save mankind. ‘Mingle the red ochre of Elephantine with the barley-beer,’ said Ra, and it was done, so that the beer gleamed red in the moonlight like the blood of men.

  "‘Now take it to the place where Sekhmet proposes to slay men when the sun rises,’ said Ra.

  “And while it was still night the seven thousand jars of beer were taken and poured out over the fields so that the ground was covered to the depth of nine inches -- three times the measure of the palm of a man's hand-with the strong beer, whose other name is "sleep-maker".

  “When day came Sekhmet the Terrible came also, licking her lips at the thought of the men whom she would slay. She found the place flooded and no living creature in sight; but she saw the beer which was the colour of blood, and she thought it was blood indeed -- the blood of those whom she had slain.