Ronan screamed and ran.
How disappointing… I thought this human would have more fight in him.
Kane signalled to the Fallen.
Rivik stepped from the shadows and blocked Ronan’s path.
Kane sauntered towards them. “I’d hoped you would present a little more of a challenge. Not so cocky, now are you?”
Whimpering and pleading for his life, Ronan inched his way back towards Kane. “Please, you can have Nicki, just let me live.”
“Oh, that was never at all in question. She was always mine to take. As for letting you live, well, your cowardice has earned you no favour. For that I shall let my pets finish you off and what’s left of your mate over here.” Kane kicked at the headless corpse. “The scarabs have consumed your other friend. He’s just bone and rag now.”
“Who are you?” Ronan stammered.
“Someone you should never have challenged.”
Kane smiled as Barrock and Gallo joined Rivik from the shadows. “Remember, no trace.”
‘Yes, Commander,” Barrock growled.
“Do you need me, Commander?” Rivik asked.
“You can join me in a few hours, Rivik. The girl and I will be finding somewhere a little more comfortable. I have a fancy to take her in his bed.”
Ronan sobbed miserably.
“If she is as good as he boasts, then I may let her live. I haven’t decided yet.”
“Very well, Commander.”
Kane sauntered back inside.
The tavern keeper’s mouth fell open. “How the hell are you in one piece and not a scratch on you? You’re one lucky bastard.”
“Luck had nothing to do with it,” Kane replied, his gaze travelling to Nicki’s.
Silently she rose from her seat, her face a mixture of shock and delight. Kane held out his hand. “Come with me, sugar. We’re going back to your place.”
Chapter Fourteen
Achavanich, Scottish Highlands
Finn closed the bedroom door softly and made his way downstairs. A smile touched his lips as he entered the kitchen.
Bessie glanced from the stove and grinned.
He held up his hands in surrender. “You were right. I should never have doubted you.”
She gave a soft chuckle. “Excellent, that’s the first lesson learned. My lavender bath oil has never failed.”
“How long will she sleep for?”
“It depends on what her body needs, but I would say we have at least a couple of hours.”
Finn sat and studied her as she busied herself with the various pots on the stove, her back towards him. How is it you know so much?
She did not speak, but her words suddenly broke through and disturbed his thoughts. “I shall explain shortly.”
The hairs on Finn’s arm rose as he tentatively reached out with his mind. I’d like you to answer my question now if you genuinely can hear me.
Bessie turned around and waved a wooden spoon in the air at him. His connection accepted. “Patience, young man. Otherwise, it will be burned stew for your supper.”
Finn nodded, his mind a torrent of questions.
Placing the spoon on the counter, she reached for a small jar and added a pinch of the contents to a pan. There was a familiar hiss before she covered it with a lid and turned the gas to low. Taking a seat opposite, her eyes flashed with amusement as she met his gaze. “Which of your questions would you like me to answer first?”
Finn considered for a moment. “What was that you added to the stew?”
She laughed. “Indeed, you are perceptive. It was Calla essence. I imagine that confirms your suspicions.”
“Of your origin, yes. My mother also used Calla in her cooking.”
“I am aware. Did she ever explain its true purpose to you?”
Finn shifted uncomfortably. “That’s just a myth.”
Bessie arched a brow. “Really? Show me your birthmark.” She rose and pulled another chair free from the table. He felt the power radiate from her as she moved closer and gestured towards his leg. “Show me,” she repeated, placing the chair to the side of him.
Finn sighed and spun to rest his foot on the cushion. Lifting his right trouser leg, he exposed his ankle and waited as she scrutinised the birthmark. “The pod hasn’t been activated.” Bessie looked confused.
Finn lowered his leg to the floor, allowing her to take a seat on the chair. “It’s just a birthmark.”
“Nonsense, how do you explain your gifts?”
“I don’t know. Perhaps I’m just one of those fortunate people who have a special affinity with nature,” he offered.
Bessie frowned. “What you possess is a little more than just an affinity to nature.”
“And how would you know of my gifts or the birthmark? I don’t believe we’ve ever met before.”
” I know everything about you. That pod should have activated on your tenth birthday.”
“Well, nothing happened because it is just a myth, and that mark is just a simple birthmark. I’m nothing special.”
“What happened on your tenth birthday?’
Not a question I am prepared to answer. Finn rose and strode from the kitchen.
Standing outside on the front porch, Finn dragged the air into his lungs. Who is this woman? How does she know so much about me? About the birthmark?
A hand touched him gently on his shoulder. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have pushed for that memory.”
Finn spun to face her. “Then, why did you?”
“I need to understand what had interfered with the pod activating.”
His jaw clenched, the memory burned and stung his eyes. “Why is it so damn important anyway.” He wiped the tears angrily with his sleeve.
“Tell me about your journey here.”
“It’s been difficult. The Master sent his warlock Kane through the portal.”
“I am familiar with him,” Bessie said.
“How?”
“That doesn’t matter. Tell me.”
“I am not sure how it’s possible, but he gave the Fallen form, they travel with him. He’s been on my tail since I arrived and he’s getting close. If it weren’t for Mercadia’s help, neither Rowan or I would be here now.”
Bessie shook her head sadly. “You see as well as I do the predicament we find ourselves. I’m sorry, but there’s no time for me to rip this plaster off gently.”
“I don’t understand?”
She chuckled. “An expression I heard, I thought it quite appropriate. It means that I need to rip the bandage off your wound now. There’s no time for me to do it slowly.”
“Why would you want to reopen an old wound?”
“Because somewhere is the explanation of why the pod didn’t activate, and why you didn’t become what you were destined to be. In this war, the Council needs powerful allies, and that means you and Rowan. Protecting her will require you harnessing your full power.”
“I haven’t done too bad a job so far,” Finn muttered.
Bessie patted his arm gently. “I know. Come inside. Rowan will be waking soon. We’ll have supper, and then I want to show you both something which I believe will help.”
He lifted his gaze to meet hers. “I will as long as you tell me the truth. Is it real?”
She smiled and held out her hand. “I don’t lie, and yes, it’s time to awaken your power.”
Finn’s mind whirred with the revelation. I need a minute.
Her thoughts connected to his once more, and he noted the plea in the depth of her eyes. “Trust me.” Bessie offered her arm.
Finn accepted, and they walked back to the kitchen in silence, both startled to find Rowan stood at the stove stirring the pan. “Sorry, I didn’t want it to burn.” She handed the spoon back to Bessie.
“Thank you, dear. Did you sleep well?”
“I did, although that wasn’t my intention.”
She flushed a deep shade of red as she glanced across at Finn who grinned. “Very disappointing,
” he said, “however thoroughly deserved. You look much better.”
“I feel better, who knew a bath could be so beneficial?”
“Do you not bathe at home, dear?”
Rowan giggled. “Of course, but I shower most days. There’s never much time to enjoy a bath and Jake hogs the bathroom at every opportunity.”
“Jake?” asked Bessie.
She rolled her eyes. “My brother. I love him, but he can be extremely annoying.” Rowan planted a kiss on Finn’s cheek. “He was fine about us by the way.”
“You rang him? What did he say?”
“Well, he wants to meet you.”
Finn laughed. “Should I be scared?”
“Of Jake? No. Besides, I’m sure he’ll love you.”
“I hadn’t realised you had a brother. Your parents?” Bessie interrupted.
Some of the laughter fell away from her voice. “Just my mum, my father passed away eighteen months ago.”
“I’m sorry to hear that. It must have been hard for you all.”
Finn ushered Rowan to the table and pulled her down beside him. He wrapped an arm around her shoulder, and she snuggled closer. “Are you okay?” he whispered.
She gave a small nod. “It wasn’t easy, but we’ve come through it together.”
“Do your family know the truth about Finn?” Bessie asked.
Rowan hesitated. “No. In all honesty, I’m not sure they would understand.”
“Why is that important?” Finn asked.
Bessie placed a bowl of stew in front of them both. “It’s not, I guess. Although it will have a part to play in the future. Let’s not worry about that now. Tuck in.”
Rowan leaned forward and inhaled the aroma. “It smells amazing; what’s in it?”
Bessie caught his eye and gave him a wink. “It’s my secret recipe.”
“I’m guessing Finn helped? Does he know your secret ingredients?”
“Perhaps one or two, not all,” Bessie replied, setting a bowl in front of herself.
Finn spooned in a mouthful of stew, the Calla essence only just detectable amongst the array of meat, vegetable and aromatic spices.
Rowan groaned beside him. “You have to give me the recipe.”
“I’m so glad you like it, dear. Now eat up, you’ll need your strength. Training starts tonight.”
“Training?” Rowan turned to Finn.
“We need to prepare, Bessie is going to help us.”
“Prepare for what?”
“Let’s not spoil the meal talking about that just yet, dear.”
Rowan nodded an acknowledgement although he could see that she was disappointed. They continued eating in silence for the rest of the meal, Finn rising to clear the table after polishing off two portions of stew.
Bessie shook her head. “The thought is very much appreciated, however, Mortimus will take care of it.”
Finn frowned. “Mortimus? As in the stone rabbit?”
“He’s not a rabbit. He’s a hare, and a very clever one at that,” Rowan replied.
“Come now, you of all people understand the unique and special attributes of the animal kingdom. Mortimus will see to the dishes while we are out.”
Finn could feel the flush of colour and a sickening churn despite the Calla essence effects. “Where is it we are going?” he asked, changing the subject quickly.
“You’ll both need your coats.”
“They’re still in the car. I’ll go get them.” Rowan kissed him on the cheek.
As soon as they were alone, Finn turned to Bessie. “Could you not speak of that in front of her?”
“Are you ashamed of your gift?”
“No, but I need to get my head around it first before I share with anyone else, especially Rowan.”
“Fair enough but it’s part of who you are, and something that cannot be kept hidden. You will have to tell her sooner or later.”
“Later then, when I understand and have accepted it.”
“As you wish.”
Rowan entered the kitchen and passed his jacket, her eyes wary. “Are you alright? You look pretty tense.”
Finn relaxed his jaw. “Sorry, and yes, I’m fine. I guess I’m just a little worried about you.”
“Don’t be. I’m excited, but a little nervous too.”
Unable to fight the overwhelming urge to pull her into his arms, Finn hugged her tightly to his chest, inhaling lavender.
“What’s that all about?” she whispered.
“Nothing,” he said, releasing her from his embrace.
Rowan slipped on her jacket. “You’re sure?”
“Yes, I didn’t want you to be nervous, that’s all.”
Bessie cast a glance in his direction but didn’t comment. She wrapped a thick woollen shawl around her shoulders. “Follow me, my dears.”
Dusk had arrived when they stepped outside. Biscuit appeared from out of nowhere and ran towards them.
“Is everything set?” Bessie asked.
Finn could have sworn he heard the words ‘Yes, mistress’. He studied the little dog in the dimming light as Rowan kneeled to pet him. Large brown eyes turned towards him, Biscuit’s head cocked to one side. Yes, I heard you, and you know it, don’t you?
There was no response. Instead, Biscuit trotted away down the gravel driveway and in the direction of the main road. Finn’s gaze shifted to Bessie in time to see the small smile that touched her lips.
“Are we to follow him?” Rowan asked.
“Yes, dear. Biscuit will guide you past the potholes.”
“Shouldn’t the local authority be sorting those out for you?”
“No, dear. As much of a nuisance as they are, we do not like to be disturbed.”
Rowan shrugged and linked her arm through Finn’s. They walked in silence, following the little dog along the main road until he turned to the left and slipped under a metal gate into a large field. Finn vaulted over the gate and reached to assist Rowan across. She landed in his arms, gratefully.
He turned to help Bessie, his mouth dropping open when the older woman nimbly leapt over the gate without the slightest of fuss. “I may be old, but I’m as fit as a fiddle,” she chuckled, walking away.
Rowan and Finn burst into laughter.
He took hold of her hand. “Well, I guess that told me.”
The moon lit their way as they moved silently through the field, Biscuit suddenly diving through the hedging. As they approached, it sprang apart, allowing all three to fit through the hole comfortably. Finn stole a glance behind, noting the entrance had closed as soon as they had passed.
“Just look at all the stars. Finn, have you ever seen a night so clear?” she exclaimed.
Finn had to admit it was quite the show, each one bright and…
Rowan stopped dead in her tracks. Bessie held up her hand, signalling for him to stop. Ribbons of light danced freely from Rowan’s fingers.
“You feel the call?” the older woman asked.
Rowan nodded and turned to Finn, her eyes reflecting the night sky, deep dark pools with tiny explosions of silver light. Her mouth formed words, but he couldn’t hear them or speak.
His feet felt heavy and rooted to the spot.
Why can’t I move?
“Let go,” Bessie ordered.
Finn’s blood boiled, his skin on fire. What is this? The thumping in his head was becoming louder, drowning out her cries. Arms caught him as he sank to his knees, his breath coming in short sharp gasps. What is happening to me?
“Bessie?” Rowan’s voice sounded far away. “Do something, oh god, Finn, please answer me, what is it?” she begged.
He lifted his face towards Bessie.
“I’m sorry, Finn, the plaster is gone. Now it’s time to let it go.”
He started to cough. Let what go? What was he supposed to let go?
“How?” he gasped and collapsed to the ground.
Rowan sobbed, and rolled him onto his back.
He stared helplessly a
t the night sky. Am I dying?
“Damn it, Finn, do what Bessie says,” Rowan shouted.
“You must stop fighting it, let the memory in and force that bloody creature out,” Bessie said.
What creature… wait, what is happening? Where am I?
Finn stumbled to his feet and stared around him. How did I get back here? Why does my jaw hurt so much? The memory flooded back to him. That’s right, Aaron punched me, but why?
“Well, do you want me to make the pain stop?”
Who is that? Finn spun to face the owner of the voice but could see no one.
“Must we play this game again?” it asked.
“Who are you?”
“A friend. I can take it all away, the shame you shall bear no more. Just say the word.”
The shame? Finn could hear the distant echo of a childish rhyme. It brought a wave of pain and humiliation. The memory of the boy’s eyes cold and bitter as Finn had sunk teeth into flesh. His father’s embarrassment right before his death. His brother’s rage throbbed in his face. Finn rolled his tongue tentatively around his mouth, his cheek swollen from the punch Aaron had landed. There it was that faint taste of copper. Yes, take it away, now. Wait, no, something is wrong. Rowan? Bessie? I need it, I need my power, stop!
Finn rolled up his trouser leg and stared in horror at the oozing bulbous mass clinging to his shin. Sweat beaded his forehead, as he bent forward to seize the worm and rip it away. A sharp pain seared through his entire leg and he cried out in agony. He fell to the ground, his head swimming and nausea rising.
“You’re making a terrible mistake, the Fae will not make such an offer again,” the worm warned.
“It lies, don’t listen to it.” Bessie’s voice echoed through the forest.
Finn groaned and bent forward, his eyes widening as the head of the worm disappeared below the gaping hole in his skin. He could feel it biting its way through flesh, his body temperature rising with each second that passed. Molten lava gushed around the worm’s exposed carcass, as it wiggled spasmodically in the air. The dark pink liquid, blood mixed with the worm’s viscous white pus, burned and continued to pour from the wound, soaking his boot.
“But the Fae, I cannot refuse,” Finn said weakly and fell backwards.
The Veils of Valoria Page 16
