by Lawna Mackie
In disbelief, Meeka continued to stare at her beautiful green-eyed white cat. Using her hands, she pushed herself up and stumbled back to the bed. Suddenly, it felt as if somebody had taken a sledgehammer to her head. The excruciating pain nauseated her.
A room with no bathroom–great. It would serve the pigheaded male right if I threw up all over his floor.
She turned and sat down on the mattress. “Catz, I’m just going to lay down for a while, and when I wake up, I’m sure this will have all been a bad dream. None of this can be true. Why is this happening to me?” Placing her head on the pillow and tightly closing her eyes, she let sleep rescue her.
Chapter Eight
The palms of Kerrigan’s hands bore the holes where his claws had dug in. The primal beast inside him wanted satisfaction…wanted her. She was quite literally out of this world. He wanted to claim every inch of her lush body until she surrendered to him and him alone. Every second near her, temptation engulfed him.
His mother stood outside the door with her hands twisted in her apron, her brown eyes searching for some kind of answer. “Is she okay? I heard...scuffling and yelling.”
“She’ll be okay. I’ll make sure of that. I believe Catz is telling her she’s not in her own world anymore. I really don’t know how that will go over, but it’s best if she hears it from one she trusts.”
Paddy waddled up closer to him and spoke with motherly concern. “She seems to have some kind of effect on you. I can see it in your eyes. Be careful, Kerrigan.”
He chuckled ruefully. “It’s best if you and Dad don’t check on them anymore unless I’m here. She’ll expect you to be human.” Kerrigan turned to leave. “The Counselors have some explaining to do. I’ll be back shortly to check on the Upper Worlders.”
Kerrigan closed the door and stared at the slow, rolling waves of the pond in front of his parents’ home. With a muttered curse, he started along the walkway. He would need to clear his head before meeting with the Council. He wanted answers, but not a confrontation with a bunch of old warlocks and witches.
The Upper World had powers, and for some reason, he hadn’t been informed of that. The time had come to face the past. He needed to learn the truth about his parents and how he'd come to be there, in Enchantment. He ignored the fact he was himself a foreigner. Enchanters were forbidden to speak about it, because it would admit the Counselors had broken one of their own precious rules. Rules meant to be kept, at all cost.
He could deal with the worst demonic spells—rotting flesh and nasty creatures—but the warrior in him disappeared when it was his own life he needed to confront. It was what it was. He’d confront his fears and learn, once and for all, why his parents abandoned him.
It was turning out to be one hell of a day.
* * * *
In the distance, the city center stood out with the Counselors’ Realm towering over all else, peaks upon peaks of crystal shining brightly through the sky. Turrets encompassed the highest points, and gargoyles protected them at all times. The Enchanter gargoyles served as his warriors.
The massive doors groaned in protest, but swung inward. He nodded to the two gargoyles in Enchanter form who stood inside, dressed in shining full-body armor. Devoid of all emotion, both of them nodded their heads as Kerrigan passed.
On the main level was the training field where dozens of gargoyles practiced their skills. Metal on metal clashed and grunts of exertion rang out through the air. Worn leather loincloths— the only clothing they wore—covered their groins.
Kerrigan scanned the field of training warriors, spotting Stryker immediately. The captain’s long hair was wet from physical exertion as he lifted his sword and dealt a crushing blow to the poor gargoyle cringing before him. Flipping backward through the air, he quickly and gracefully landed firmly on his feet, sweeping his sparring partner’s legs out from underneath him. The point of the sword glistened at his opponent’s throat. With a smile, his captain removed the threat of the sword and extended a hand to the poor warrior on the ground. He began with praise, which effectively lead into suggestions on ways the young warrior could improve.
He approached and stood facing his friend’s back. The young warrior immediately stepped away from Stryker and bowed before the Enforcer. “At ease, Gaston. I’m impressed to see you improve daily,” Kerrigan complimented.
The young warrior beamed with appreciation. “Thank you, sir,” he replied as he turned and walked away.
“Stryker, if you keep being so hard on all these young lads, you’re going to be the only one guarding the Counselors’ Realm,” Kerrigan mocked, extending his hand to his friend. Stryker greeted him with a big smile, accepting his welcome.
“Well, it took you long enough to get here this morning. Some of us don’t have a life of luxury.” He clasped his wrist behind his back, his feet braced apart. “All the Counselors have gathered in the chamber. Those old hobbits are never up this early. So what’s up?”
“Walk with me.”
They headed to the far end of the field, away from the others, where he knew they wouldn’t be overheard. “My father has done something I would never have believed him capable of.”
Kerrigan looked at him seriously. “I am not prone to bouts of uncertainty or doubts, but this, I believe, has far-reaching consequences.”
Stryker’s face went static, losing all traces of humor. “What’s got everyone in so much upheaval?”
Kerrigan walked over to a shaded bench, where Stryker sat down and began removing his weapons. “As my second in command, it’s important that you are aware of any possible threats. There is danger to the situation. From where, I do not know, but I can sense it, and we may need to act quickly.
“My father cocooned two beings when they fell into the water by the dam, and brought them to Enchantment. They survived. One creature is from a species called Lemrens, and the other appears to be a human female.”
Stryker stopped the color draining from his face as he gaped at him. “That’s not possible. We’ve always been told nobody could survive a trip through the dimension from Upper World, not to mention the Counselors have always told us magic did not exist in Upper World. Perhaps your father is mistaken.”
“Make no error; it is indeed quite possible. I’ve spoken to both the human and the Lemren. The Lemren seems very intelligent, and holds the ability to wield powerful magic. The more alarming part of this tale is the female is just starting to develop some form of what she’ll believe to be supernatural gifts, and I believe it’s more powerful than you or I could imagine. If I’m to believe what the Lemren tells me, there are those who will wish to exploit her power. It is possible that one of our own could be included in that. Anyone who anticipates using her will answer with their lives.”
Kerrigan paced. “Stryker, ensure all gargoyles are prepared for a battle, should the need arise. We could have a real threat here. I just don’t know exactly what we’re dealing with, and until I can get some answers from the Council and remove the foreigners from Enchantment, everyone should be on their toes.”
Stryker stood. “Consider it done. I’ll brief the gargoyles. They’ll be ready, should the need arise. Is there anything else?”
“You’ve already done it. I don’t have to worry when you’re on the job. I may need a guard to watch the girl and her companion a bit later. With your talents and abilities, you’ll be acting in my stead when I’m not around.” The thought of another man being with Meeka made his temper rise, but he knew it was the only way. And he trusted Stryker.
“Wish me luck with the Counselors,” he said, walking to the platform.
* * * *
Kerrigan ignored the sinking sensation in his gut as he tugged on his T-shirt before the Council. Ignoring the stares as ten Counselors appraised him, he glanced around. After centuries of use, they’d done little to change the dark, dreary weight of their chamber. Turning away from his errant thought before it could form, he met their harsh stares. Unlike other Enchante
rs, he felt no fear regarding the impressive power they wielded. Rather, he pitied them. Many had already begun to show in the age that clung to their bodies the penance of their greed.
The oldest, and considered most powerful, Madget, began speaking first on behalf of the group. “Kerrigan, it has been hundreds of years since a foreigner has been allowed to enter our world. The foreigner was you, but the decision was made by us—the Counselors of Enchantment. Your father does not have such authority, and must be punished for his behavior. It is the law.”
“Nobody will be punishing my father.” He glared back at them.
The Counselors gasped in astonishment. Thalius spoke up. “Let him speak. Kerrigan, how can you support this decision?”
Kerrigan held his towering presence and position. Regardless of their power, they would not wield it against him for fear of his retribution. “For how many centuries has my father faithfully protected the Gateway? Each time a being from Upper World has fallen, he has watched it perish. This is not some mindless beast, but one like us. Would you condemn one like us to death? We are not killers, and allowing her to die would have been murder.”
The Counselors were silent, but the looks on their faces varied from red with anger to wide-eyed with fear. He knew they were communicating telepathically It was a talent they shared.
“Regardless of my father’s alleged breach of protocol, there is another outrage that I bring before you this day. All these years, I have been led by you, the Counselors, to believe that the Upper World is devoid of special powers. Not the case, is it?” Kerrigan paused, his hands knotting into fists. “Apparently, it is not impossible for foreigners to come to our world. Since all you have led us to believe is less than the truth, perchance you could explain to me why.
“Why? How is it that I’m so special? Where did my powers come from? Perhaps if you want to punish someone for breaking your laws, it should be me, a foreigner.”
He stood perfectly still, watching Madget tap her long, yellow nails on the marble table. All ten were obviously communicating telepathically. Kerrigan wondered how they would answer his questions.
Thalius spoke again. “We will need more time to think about this situation. For now, Todd must keep the foreigners in his lodge. You are to watch them and report what you learn of them back to us in three days’ time. Todd will not be happy having visitors in his house for even three days. With regards to your second question, we, the Council, have decided Todd and Paddy may explain to you how you came to Enchantment. They have our permission to do so. Report to us in three days’ time, and we will decide the fate of both the foreigners and your father.”
* * * *
Kerrigan took a steadying breath, and with rough movements, pulled on his armor. A good sparring match would clear his head. Cursing fluently, he slammed the door, stalking down the corridor to find Stryker.
Like the gargoyle warriors, Kerrigan had next to nothing on except a small piece of leather hanging just below his hips. Leather bands holding his knives were strapped to his massive arms. His muscles were taut and ready for the fight.
The gargoyles stepped back as he walked toward the centre of the field, each one casting its eyes down in hopes it would not be the one to spar with him today.
He spied Stryker at the end of the field.
“Did it go that bad? Your look alone has already scared all the others away.” Stryker raised his sword and shield. “Perhaps a good workout will ease your mind.”
Kerrigan smiled, and the clash rang throughout the Councilors’ Realm. The fight with Stryker would be nothing compared to the fight he’d have to face with Meeka.
Chapter Nine
Wow! What a dream.
Peeling her eyes open, Meeka groaned. That was the last time she was going to go boating… at least for a while. Pressing a hand to her head, she sat up, blinking while glancing out the window. There was no window. No dressing table or closet. It wasn’t a dream.
Panic swept through her. Fully awake, Meeka stared at the large, round bed.
Oh, my God, I’m still in this horrible nightmare.
With lazy eyes and a yawn, Catz murmured, “I told you this wasn’t a dream.” “This isn’t possible.”
Catz rubbed her head along Meeka’s arm. “Meeka, you have always been special. You are meant to be here. I know it seems impossible to believe, but I was sent to Earth to be with you and to comfort you from people like your worthless parents.”
Meeka let out a breath and surveyed her surroundings again. “I think my head is okay now. I should try to stand up.” She scooted over to the edge of the bed and stood. The dizziness and headache had subsided.
Meeka stood with determination. “I’m going to try the door again.” She frowned at the doorknob and twisted it. No success. “Catz, why didn’t you speak to me out loud before now?”
Catz stuck out her front leg and licked her paw, rubbing it over her ear and face. She looked up at Meeka. “You were not ready to hear me speak this way.” She jumped off the bed and followed her as she examined the room.
“But, why me, Catz? Why am I here?” Still inspecting the large room, Meeka idly wondered how a round room was built. When would the Adonis wanna-be come back? He had to have more answers for her. She looked down at her disheveled clothing. Her black jeans were wrinkled, and her pink sweatshirt torn and hanging slightly off one shoulder, showing portions of her pink lacy bra.
I must look horrible.
A bathroom and shower would be great. Did they have such things in this different world? Her stomach growled unhappily. It was her fault for not eating breakfast.
What do they eat? Hopefully not humans.
“I can’t stay in this room for much longer, Catz, I’m going to go crazy. Do you think we will be able to go home soon?”
“I wouldn’t count on it. You have a destiny here, ties to this place that you must fulfill. It seems the man wants us gone, but I don’t believe that will happen soon enough. I’m here to help protect you in the journey, and so will the man.”
Goosebumps formed up and down her arms, and the hairs on the back of her neck stood. “Protection? Why would I need protection? Why would someone want to harm me?” Meeka scrunched her brows, deciding she didn’t want to know the answer to that question. “Catz, what exactly are you?”
“I am from a species called Lemrens. We are shape-shifters, but can only do so into an animal form. We have many magical abilities which allow us to protect our companions. From time to time, we are sent to Earth to help special beings like you discover themselves and their power.”
“But I don’t have any special powers or abilities. If I did, I’d get us out of here. Perhaps you were confused and got the wrong human?” Meeka offered a vague, half-formed hope.
Finding a spot on the floor, Catz sat and looked up her. “You are the one, Meeka. Your abilities will become more prevalent while you are here, and I’m guessing the male will help with your transition.”
Her breath caught. Swallowing around the knot in her throat, she stared at Catz. “What am I supposed to be?”
“You will become a very powerful sorceress. Stronger than I, I’m guessing. But not to worry; you know I will always protect you.”
Meeka picked up Catz and hugged her. She loved this cat…or Lemren. “Oh, Catz, what would I do without you? You’re the only one who has ever cared about me. I hope it’s okay if I still hug and pet you.”
A smile curled her lips as Catz purred. “I’m so glad you’re here. Forgive me if I doubt you. This is so hard to believe. I hope Adonis comes back soon; I really need to use the bathroom.” Heat suffused her face as her stomach rumbled. “And maybe grab a bite to eat.”
Chapter Ten
The icy touch of water from his damp hair streaked down Kerrigan’s back. Striding from the barracks, he sighed, his eyes drifting closed for a moment as he chanted the familiar words.
“Pralim renolzup.”
A moment later, the air still reeked
of brimstone as he opened them to smile at the sight of his parent's home sitting amid the lush growth.
Knocking loudly on the door, he walked into the lodge, waiting for one of his parents to answer his hello. When no answer came, he headed toward the kitchen.
Apparently, they were out.
He found himself facing the girl’s bedroom door and took a deep breath to calm his nerves. He knocked on the door, and with a wave of his hand, it opened.
* * * *
Meeka was standing at the far end of the room with her back to the door when she heard the knock. She whirled around, and their eyes locked from across the room. Immediately, his masculine scent mixed with tangy citrus and spice drifted into the room with him. He’d rendered her speechless. The damp locks curled over his forehead, hanging down passed his shoulders in a sexy, wild look. Meeka’s stomach spoke for her as a big growl broke the silence.
How embarrassing!
Her cheeks felt as if they were on fire. She placed Catz back down on the floor. How could he possibly look as good as he did? He could render any woman a blubbering idiot. She’d never seen a white T-shirt and tattered blue jeans look so good. Her eyes wandered up his frame as she straightened. She was staring again. Breaking eye contact and angry she’d been ogling again, Meeka rammed her hands in her pockets.
He spoke softly. “Does your head feel any better?”
Struggling to find her voice, she offered a weak smile. “Yes, I feel much better.”
“I’m glad. Rarely does it take so long for the healing process to be complete, but you were very protective.”
Her stomach growled loudly again, interrupting him. With a kind smile, he held out a hand. “My apologies. Apparently, I’m far from a good host. You both must be hungry. My mother has stepped out for a bit, but surely, we can find something for you to eat.”
