by Lynn Landes
“I found it and set my camera up, just like I hoped. Those photographs still bring royalties,” she says proudly. “It was so beautiful and peaceful; I began packing up intending to catch the train back to town. That’s when I heard them, the sounds of someone coming. Two men had followed me from the village. Seeing them, I knew what they wanted from me; once you see that kind of evil in a man’s eyes you never forget it.” Elsbeth drops her head and Polly rests a hand on top. “Don’t weep for me, child. Because of it, I met him” she whispers in awe, smiling.
“I fought hard, but they were stronger than me. After they dumped my body in the crumbling church, I thought about throwing myself off the mountain. I heard his call, the sound of my owl. I heard screaming, and then silence. I closed my swollen eyes, and a sudden light caught my attention. I thought they were coming back for me, so I began to panic, backing away. It was not a flashlight, but my owl. I looked up and he was flying towards me; however, this time just before he landed, he shifted. Standing before me was an angel. He was huge, tan skin, long black hair, and yellow eyes of my owl. His wings were striped like the owl’s, beautiful huge and lush. I was terrified, naked and bleeding. I thought I was going to die. He walked towards me and snapped his wings out around us; kneeling down beside me, he leaned his head back in a silent prayer and lifted his hands to the sky. Moving his hands along my body, he began covering me in golden dust. At first it was cold, but my body absorbed it and it warmed me from the inside out. I began to feel drowsy but before my eyes closed I felt him lift me in his arms.” Looking at the stunned faces before her, she smiles, “You girls thought this old woman had no stories to tell.”
“Why have you never told me this before?” Elina asks. “Do Ruby and Ronnie know this?” she asks excitedly.
Holding up her hand, Polly says, “It is mine to tell whom I choose. I see it in you both. You can’t hide it once you have been with them. It changes you, shifts you from the inside out. Your aura changes color. I have only seen it on a few others; it is why I keep to myself. It makes you a target for those hunting them.”
Elsbeth looks at Polly with new eyes. Finally, someone who understands! Reaching out, she takes her hand, squeezing gently. “How do you survive it, the separation? Why does it hurt so?” she whispers with her other hand clutching her chest. Her wide blue eyes are full of tears, and Elsbeth turns to look at Elina, “You are so strong. Does he stay away because I am weak?”
“No,” Elina says “He stays away because every time he’s with you it gets harder to leave.”
Polly leans forward and reaches for the other’s hands. “I want you to understand that it’s impossible for a human and angel to be together. Your love would condemn him to an eternity in hell. We are humans. We can ask for forgiveness and receive it, but they can’t. Would you risk his soul so you can have a moment of pleasure?”
“I didn’t ask for any of this.” Elsbeth jumps up angrily thumping her chest. “I wanted to have my own business, fall in love, get married, and have children. Now I am damaged goods, I am fractured and lost.” Dropping to her knees, “I don’t know how to find my way back. I feel like a part of my soul is missing, how do I get it back, Polly? Tell me, how you did it!”
“You have to let him go. It’s the only way to protect them,” Elina says understanding and answering for her. “You deserve to be happy, and he will be drawn to the light he sees in you. They become protective of us and the more time we spend with them the worse it becomes.”
“Exactly,” Polly says with sadness in her eyes. “We spent years together; and when I finally forced him away, it nearly killed me. I have not seen him since, but I did what I had to do for both of us.”
“Elsbeth, I believe he is protecting you by not coming. If you call him, he will come, but before you do ask yourself are you so selfish that you do not care for his soul? You may as well rip his wings off and toss him to the wolves,” Polly tells her.
Elsbeth wipes her tears, and looks shocked. “I would never intentionally hurt him. The nightmares are so real and sometimes I feel like I am back in that hell. How did you do it, Polly?”
Taking her hands and pulling her up, Polly says, “Take one moment at a time, one breath, one minute, and then one day you will find yourself smiling again. You could fall in love and have the future of your dreams. They want our happiness as much as we do Elsbeth.”
“Thank you for sharing your story with us Aunt Polly” Elina sighs, “I am sorry you had to go through so much. My situation is complicated and I do not have the same luxury of walking away.” Looking at the woods, listening to the wind blow in the trees, Elina feels weary. Turning back to them she says, “Elsbeth, I believe it will get easier. You have to just allow yourself time to grieve. You have a family that loves you and friends here who will help, just ask.”
Wiping tears, Elsbeth thanks them and Elina decides to try to get some sleep. Watching her walk away, Elsbeth says quietly, “You had a few years with your angel, what about her? How long has she known him? I had moments, stolen here and there. If I feel like this from such little contact, what will she go through, Polly and how will she survive it?”
Nine
After a restless night, Elsbeth woke early to get started on her day. Working with the local women and children on the reservation proved to be the perfect distraction for her. The biggest surprise to her was how much she learned from them. The culture and history passed down through the generations was such a gift, and once they trusted her, they shared that knowledge with her. She taught them the techniques and skills required to make unique jewelry. They taught her the myths, legends, and properties of each specific stone. The result was unique handcrafted jewelry with a dramatic flair of colors, textures, and stones.
Looking at the collection she has prepared for today’s town festival, she is excited. It is her best work ever, and the resulting proceeds will go to help the women and children at the reservation. Elsbeth has set up her website with a new page, allowing for worldwide sales for one of a kind native jewelry. They agreed to take shifts during the four day celebration. Polly has a table near showing her painting, photography and sketches designed and inspired by the beauty of South Dakota and the people who inhabit it.
The Pow Wow is a celebration and a time for renewal. Dance contests in traditional clothing, drumming, horseshoe tournaments, food, and craft sales. Most of the locals help set up, clean up and run booths. Large tents have been set up to protect them from the wind and cold. Everyone is excited and Elsbeth hurries, packing up and carrying trays of jewelry to the truck. Polly is already up and finished loading her art.
“Are you excited about today? I don’t need to tell you how excited the girls are to be working with you,” Polly tells Elsbeth.
“I am the lucky one. They have taught me so much and introduced me to many traditional techniques that I would never have learned. I am just as excited for today,” she replies with a smile.
Jakes walks up with another load saying, “It is kind of you to donate a portion of the proceeds to the local women’s shelter, Elsbeth. You should be proud.” After the truck is loaded Jake returns to the house for another load. Elsbeth sees Ruby and Ronnie come out carrying more paintings and supplies. Everyone finishes loading up, then heads in for a quick breakfast.
Elina is in the kitchen with Ronnie and Ruby when they all come in. “Excellent, we are all together,” Ruby says. After everyone sits together, Uncle Ronnie says, “I would like to say a blessing. Let’s all join hands.” Holding hands, they bow their heads as he begins:
“Father, we thank you for food in a world where many walk in hunger;
For Faith in a world where many walk in fear;
For friends in a world where many walk alone;
We give you thanks, O Lord. Amen.” Amen.
“That was beautiful, you old fart. Where did you get that? I know you didn’t write it,” Polly says as everyone laughs.
“Well, sgili, it’s from a church in C
anada, It felt appropriate right now,” he responds, spearing a sausage.
“Aunt Polly, do you know of any other Watchers or how to contact them?” Elina asks, changing the subject.
Polly looks at her, “The best way would be to watch from the astral plane. Look for the threads; it would be quicker, but dangerous to do it that way.”
“She would not be doing it alone,” Jake leans over saying, “I will be there to help. We know the demons are tracing us through our golden threads.”
“I don’t have a thread, Jake. I will be able to look for them and make contact if I can” Elina reminds him.
“Well, it seems to me we need a distraction to lure them away from you so you can locate more Watchers without endangering yourself or the people you are looking for. If the demons happen to find you while you are searching, you might lead them straight to the people we need for help,” Uncle Ronnie states quietly looking around the table. As the realization of that fact sinks in, everyone begins talking at once.
Polly claps her hands together drawing everyone’s attention. “That always works. We need to do what we can to help Elina and unite our people. I would prefer to bring in some outside help if we are going to try to do this. This region is full of Shadows, some good and some not. I have a friend at the reservation named Hunter; he is the medicine man of the village. He could provide the extra protection we need.”
“That sounds like an excellent plan. It will take more than one keeper to fight if we draw a horde of demons to us. The ones I have seen are deadly and powerful. It is always best to have backup. When can we meet him?” Elina asks as she reaches for her coffee cup.
With a smile Polly answers, “Well it just happens that he will be helping me today with our tables at the festival. I will ask him to come over tonight and we can see if he is willing to help.” Excited to be moving in the right direction, everyone begins cleaning up.
“Can he be trusted, how well do you know him, Pauline?” Ruby questions as they clear the table.
“I have known him for a long time. He has a son, and I have personally seen him fight demons alone, he is powerful. I trust him, sister. I would not bring him to your family if I didn’t.”
Taking Polly’s hand, Ruby says quietly “Our family.”
Ten
Jake watches Elsbeth closely. He can tell she is nervous about something. “Jake, before we go I want to give you this,” she says holding out a necklace in her hand.
“What’s this, Elsbeth?” As he looks closely, he sees a sterling silver chain holding a silver shield. Carved into the center is a green stone with red swirls in the shape of a cross. “Elsbeth, you made this for me?”
She takes it and slips it over his head, saying “Jake, you have been my protector for so long, I wanted to return the favor. The stone in the center of this shield is a Bloodstone. Legend says it was thought to be formed from the blood of Jesus as it dripped on the green earth solidifying. Locals say it is an aid in healing, strength, and a talisman for protection in battle. It looks good on you,” she says resting her hand over it against his chest. They both jump as a spark moves from her hand to his chest.
“Wow. Was that supposed to happen?” Grabbing the shield in his hand, he is not surprised to feel a hum.
Beth laughs at him saying, “Sometimes that happens. I try not to think about it. Maybe it’s your electrifying personality. Seriously, Jake, if you don’t like it I can make something else.”
Holding up his hand he tells her, “I love it, Beth, thank you,” pressing a kiss to her forehead. “Now let’s go make some money.” Laughing, they walk to the truck and head to the festival.
Hours later Elsbeth’s jewelry trays are close to empty, and her feet are killing her. She needs to get more from the truck and she waves to Polly and the handsome Indian who is helping her. Telling the girls helping her to go get some lunch and have some fun, she puts up a sign that says she will be back in a few minutes.
Walking through the crowded streets, Elsbeth hears the pounding of the drums as the dancers get started. Grabbing a drink, she enjoys the warmth of the sunshine. The warmth of the December sun shines on Elsbeth, warming her up. Ruby and Ronnie are playing horseshoe with some of the local children and Elsbeth gives them a quick wave as she moves off. Jake is helping set up teepees for people to warm up in.
Wondering where Elina is, she heads towards the truck. Elsbeth catches a glimpse of a shadow from the corner of her eye. Her mouth goes dry, and she tries not to panic. Her heart begins to pound out a rhythm louder than the beating of the drums. “They have found me!” Changing direction she sees another shadow to her right, “That’s two” she thinks as she walks faster. “How far away are the others?” The streets are so crowded, she can’t get through!
Breathing fast, she feels her body break into a cold sweat and she knows she is in panic mode. The noise of the drums begins to fade, and she takes a breath to try to scream for help but no noise will come. “Strange” she thinks, as something grabs her arm. A man; he is talking, but she can no longer hear him. Looking into the light brown eyes of the Indian talking to her, she says, “Don’t let them take me again.” Then everything goes black.
“Damn, she’s going down” he thinks as the woman loses all color, and her blue eyes roll back and she falls into his arms.
“That’s no way to get a date, Dad. Scaring her to death, really? Way to go,” Alex laughingly tells his dad, Hunter.
Holding her in his arms he replies, “Funny, now clear a path, will you? Let’s get her to the medical tent.” Hurrying across the street following his son, he has to marvel at his efficiency.
“Watch Out! Coming Through! Beautiful girl here! MOVE IT!!!” he screams and they part like the Red Sea.
The nurse quickly checks her vitals, and then places a cold rag on her forehead. Snapping a smelling salt under her nose, she smiles as Elsbeth jumps. Eyes open wide in a panic. She tries to sit up only to be pushed down gently.
“You are okay, sweetie, your vitals look good. You must have fainted.” Looking at the man who helped her, Elsbeth starts to disagree. He gives a quick shake of his head telling her not to. “I will get you some water. Are you her family?” the nurse asks.
“No, just a friend,” Hunter responds.
“Thank you,” Elsbeth says, beginning to shake. “I have to go!” Sitting up slowly, she tries to stand, only to have the room spin again. Rushing forward, Alex steadies her with a hand on her elbow. Hunter sits her down.
“Okay, you just had a scare. Why don’t you sit for a minute?” Hunter tells her, pushing her back onto the cot. “Alex, go get Polly.”
Elsbeth watches closely as his son leaves. With a look of suspicion, she asks, “Who are you, and how do you know Polly?”
“I am Hunter. You must be Elsbeth. She has been bragging about you, and so have the women and children on the reservation. I am the medicine man here.”
She is relieved to know who he is. She sits up more slowly and waits for the room to stop spinning. Taking a moment to look at him, she thinks well, he is gorgeous. Long black hair to his shoulders, tall about five feet ten, thirty something age group. Light brown eyes, and a muscular frame.”
“That’s right; you were working with Polly this morning. I have been so busy I didn’t get a chance to meet you,” she continues saying. “Hunter, thank you for helping me.” Looking around nervously, she wraps her arms around herself trying to keep the fear and panic at bay.
“Elsbeth, you are safe with me. The Shadows will not come near you now.”
With a quick intake of breath, she asks, “You saw them, too?”
Nodding his head yes, “It is my curse and my blessing. You see, once I see them, I am bound to hunt and destroy them. I can wait until you are safe with your family.”
This beautiful young woman has been damaged; he can see it in her blue eyes. The fear she tries to fight down won today. They were hunting her and he wants to know why? “Can you tell me why they were a
fter you? I counted four tracking you.”
Eyes wide, she shakes her head, exclaiming “FOUR! I only saw two. What makes you think you can protect me?” she asks as a tear slides down her cheek. Looking at him with hollow eyes, “Not even an angel could save me Hunter.”
Shocked, he looks at her as a loud ruckus erupts outside the tent. Jumping up, she looks for a way out, only to find Hunter standing in front of her as her family comes in followed by Alex.
Jake is the first to see the protective stance the Indian is holding. “Beth, are you alright?” he asks quietly.
The moment she hears Jakes voice, she runs around Hunter and starts to cry great heaving sobs. “They found me, Jake. We have to go now!” she tells him balling up his shirt in her fists.
“It’s alright now. We won’t leave you alone again, Beth.”
Backing out of his arms, shaking her head no, she looks at Ruby, Ronnie, and Polly behind them and tells them with panic in her eyes, “I can’t go back, I won’t survive it again!”
Not sure what to say, they all go quiet as a voice from behind has her turning. “Elsbeth, I can promise they will not survive this night.” Alex starts to protest, but his father holds up his hand, “I am required to hunt them, son.”
Rushing forward, fifteen year old Alex doesn’t care who hears him say, “Not four at once Dad!?”
Jake smiles at the protectiveness his son shows and reassures him, “He will not be alone. I will help.”
Ronnie steps forward, “As will I, no more hiding. It is time to protect our families and I am sick of being in the shadows!”
Elina watches from her shadow form, quietly tracking the demons here. They are stalking Elsbeth and she needs to know how they found her. With every step Elsbeth takes, the demons follow. One by one, they are drawn to her, attracted by the gold light that surrounds her soul. Unlike most, Elsbeth’s gold light is flashing. They make no move to take her this time, just follow as though being pulled along behind her. Elina watches Fascinated as smaller demons begin to follow.
