Magical Fantasy Novel-Dragon Domain: An Excerpt

Dragon Domain--Book Two of the Dragon Clan Trilogy (978-0-9798406-1-6) Cheyenne and Celeste came to Coyote Springs to save a child; instead, Cheyenne found a home. With the help of their new friend, Jane, they created a spiritual sanctuary. But when Celeste stopped running, her past caught up with her. Dominic arrived with promises of love and passion. Instead of love, he reawakened Celeste’s dark side, turning her against those she loved the most. With the aid of the dragons, Cheyenne was barely able to ward off their first attack. With each soul they bound to them, Celeste and Dominic’s greed and hatred grew until they would not settle for less than totally destroying Cheyenne and all she loves. How do you protect yourself from someone who knows how to steal your soul?





For a moment, Jane remained in that in-between stage between sleep and wake. Before opening her eyes, she mentally checked her body for stress points. She wasn’t looking for anything specific. It was more of a vague feeling of her energy being off. In the past, she had been able to ward off physical annoyances by just checking her energy before becoming fully conscious. Her left side seemed a bit numb, most likely from sleeping in the same position too long. She usually didn’t move around much when she slept in a strange bed. It made Maxie crazy. He said it was like sleeping with a corpse. Thinking of him suddenly brought back the anger and sadness. Part of her loved him. Yet there was something that kept her from committing to him.
She drifted downward into her body. Opening her eyes, she stared at the orange and white striped sheets. An instant later, the pain hit. Starting at the base of her skull, it raced over the top of her head, grabbing her cheekbones, trying to flip them over. She moaned and rolled onto her back. Closing her eyes, she tried to force herself back into the upper realms, where she could balance whatever was out of kilter. The throbbing continued, preventing her from concentrating. Don’t fight it, came the thought, just allow it to pass through you. Keeping her eyes closed, she breathed deeply in through her nose, allowing the pain to flow over her like a wave on the shore. The pain lessened, only to be followed be a second then a third wave. She rolled over, ducking her head beneath the pillow and holding it tight trying to block the pain. Images appeared in her mind. She didn’t understand. It was the farm. A thin dark mist hovered around it. It reached for her. She retreated. It followed. Lightning flashed up from the ground. The mist scattered and recollected itself around the house. Just as suddenly, the pain dulled to a throb. Carefully she opened her eyes. Unsure of what she should do, she pushed the pillow away and slowly lifted herself to a kneeling position. She looked around. The room hadn’t changed, yet it was different. It was the smell. Ozone. She was more confused than ever.
Sliding off the bed onto her feet, she put on the short robe Raven had left at the foot of the bed. She tied the belt and opened the door. Continuing down the hallway, she stopped at the archway.
Raven was lying on the couch, a cloth across her forehead and eyes. In spite of the warmth of the room, she hugged her favorite comforter to her chest. She shivered beneath it.
The sun streamed into the room. From her perspective, there wasn’t a cloud in the sky. Raven shouldn’t be having a sinus attack. Yet, Raven was having what she would describe as a four-alarm attack.
Creeping further into the room, she noticed the broken teacup on the kitchen floor. Its contents spilled among the shattered pieces.
“Good afternoon.” The voice came from the couch.
“What happened?”
“Something blew through.”
“What?”
“I don’t know. I heard you scream once. Then I got hit.” Raven lifted one end of the cloth to look at her. “My shields didn’t hold. “
“I set up temporary barriers myself last night.”
Raven recovered her eye. “I know. It didn’t help.” Her voice was a combination of bitterness and anger. “I got images of darkness around the farm.”
Jane didn’t know what to say.
“It was an evil I haven’t experienced before.” Raven waited.
The unasked question hung between them, testing their friendship. Jane swallowed hard, not wanting to hear what was coming. Carefully she knelt and picked up the pieces of the broken cup. “It was your favorite.”
“Forget it!” Raven snapped. Her hands covered her face. She moaned in pain.
“I’m sorry.” Jane couldn’t move. She felt responsible, but she didn’t know why. “I don’t know what happened.”
“Celeste happened.”
“Why do you assume--”
“Because it’s the truth!” Raven’s voice quivered with pain and anger. “Just like Cheyenne has been trying to tell you.”
“She doesn’t have any proof.”
“But she does.”
“Why didn’t she tell me?” Jane snapped back and instantly regretting it. The dull throb sharpened into to stabbing pain behind her eyes.
“She tried to.” Raven emphasized each word. “You wouldn’t listen.”
If Raven was right, this was all her fault. Jane dropped the pieces. “She was just jealous...jealous because she didn’t have a man in her life. That’s all.”
Using one arm, Raven lifted herself into a sitting position. “Both Cheyenne and I fully dedicated the Samhain after she got the farm. She has no interest in dating or mating. Her total focus is on her spiritual path. Just like me.”
“I didn’t know.”
“There is a lot you don’t know.”
It wasn’t possible, Jane thought. She’s just trying to bait me. Cheyenne would have told us. Such radical commitments were never made lightly. “You don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“Fine. Believe what you like.” Raven tried to stand, but as quickly sat back down. “It’s your rude awakening. “
“I thought you were my friend.“ Her voice sounded whiny, but Jane didn’t care. Since she started on the investigation, they had spent many hours together not only talking about the case but their lives as well. Raven was the only one who truly knew who about Maxie. She had always been open and honest with her, yet Raven chose to keep the most important aspect of her spirituality a secret. It wasn’t rational, but suddenly Jane felt betrayed.
“Could you put more cold water on this?” Raven held up the cloth. “And put the start the water for tea.”
Taking it, Jane silently walked into the kitchen, doubt rapidly growing within her. She ran the water and saturated the cloth. Wringing the excess off, she returned to the living room and gently covered the prone woman’s eyes. Raven murmured something. Jane didn’t understand. Briefly stroking the black mane, she turned and returned to the kitchen.
Could she have been wrong? But about who? Celeste or Cheyenne? Which one was lying? The past few months they hadn’t been as close. But all relationships change. Without growth, there would be stagnation and death. She filled the kettle and put it on the stove. It didn’t make sense. Nothing did. Not any more. Pulling down the herb jars, she placed them on the counter and took the mixing bowl off the shelf. Taking a pinch from the spearmint and chamomile, she ground the leaves between her fingers, allowing the pieces to drop into the bowl, and resealed the jars. A year ago, they had been planning an expansion of the classes and greenhouse. The classes had remained very popular in spite of the House of Christ. The few rented cottages supplemented the farm income. In fact, Jane admitted to herself, Cheyenne’s herbs were the only stable income they had. How did they become so dependent on her?
Across the room, the kettle began to bubble. She filled the tea balls and put them in cups. Nine months ago, she had taken a leave of absence from the TV station to help Celeste with the classes. They had built the web site. It was beautiful with pictures of the farm and information about Dragon Herbs. Both of them taught classes online. Cheyenne was too busy with the greenhouse and herbs to do more than teach one class. They were busy, tired and happy--a true team, each using their own particular talents for the best of the whole. Within a month, Dominic arrived.
The kettle whistled. Startled she grabbed for it and turned off the burner. Filling the cups, she watched the steam rise, carrying the scent of the herbs. She breathed deeply. For a few moments, her mind quieted. The tree outside had a bird’s nest safely tucked in one of the branches. From her perspective, she couldn’t see if it was inhabited. Elsewhere, birds sang. Traffic rolled to and fro on the street. People living their own lives. Were they happy? Or sad? A bit of both, she thought. Did they feel what happened earlier? Or was it hidden from them like a rude surprise to be sprung on them when it was too late to do anything? She returned the kettle to the stove, the contents still rumbling with the heat. Steam continued to rise from the cups. It was fascinating how the steam formed shapes and patterns. Sometimes, she just wondered why. She didn’t expect an answer. It was just something to occupy her mind, to keep it from asking questions she didn’t want answered. Dangling the tea balls by their chains, she watched the water color. It was such a simple thing. Judging the tea to be strong enough, she dropped the balls in the sink and picked up one of the cups.
Raven was still lying on the couch, the cloth over her upper face. With, her black curls fanned out on the pillow; she looked like she was posing for a centerfold. A chicken pox scar on her left temple was the only blemish on her otherwise smooth skin. How old she was, no one really knew. Some how Raven had always been able to dodge the question. She seemed in her late twenties, very early thirties. Yes several of her commits gave the impression and the ages of her two sons made her somewhere in her late forties. She had two sons by two different men. One she chose to marry, the other was a good friend who for one night became more. Now divorced, she had her own home, her own money, her own path to follow. Her children were a source of pride and pain. The eldest chose his father over her; the rules weren’t as strict. She shared custody of her youngest, but his primary residence was with his father. She loved him enough not to bounce him back and forth between the two homes. Some on the farm thought less of her for not having her sons with her while they were growing up. They didn't she wasn’t maternal enough to worship the Goddess. Her attitude was “whatever”, using the familiar hand gesture. It was something Jane had always admired about her.
Bending over, she placed the cup on a coaster and slid it within her reach. Raven didn’t stir. Sometimes sleep is the best medicine.
Taking her own mug out the back door, she sat on the steps. The shadows kept the cement cool, but soon they would creep back toward the house with the turning of the day. Protected by only the thin robe, her butt and thighs quickly felt the cold. Standing, she walked down the path into the sunlight. It warmed the back of her head and brought a smile to her lips. Mentally, she thanked Ra for putting his loving arms around her. The cup was hot in her hands, but the steam no longer rose from the liquid. She took a sip. It was good; lemon would make it better. The scent made her nose tingle.
The shadow of a bird flew across the lawn. She looked up. It was a jay. Ever present, ever watching no matter what the season. Some people didn’t like them at their bird feeders. Jane liked their tenacity and their ability to adapt to whatever life presented to them. They were character traits she wished she possessed. Sometimes she felt as if she had no control over her life that she was always reacting to someone else’s game plan.
Looking back over her thirty-six years, Jane realized that most of her life she did what was expected of her. It was like she checking off chores on a list that someone else wrote for her. Her thirty-seventh birthday was nearly four months away and she still didn’t know what she wanted to be when she grew up. She no longer had a clue how to fill the rapidly growing void in her. For a while, the television station gave her a purpose, then it was helping Celeste and Cheyenne. She was tired of playing peacemaker between them, yet she wasn’t brave enough to confront them.
She sipped the cooling tea and continued to walk down the path, taking the left fork toward the swing. Sitting, she swiveled, crossing her legs and tucking her robe down between her thighs. Pulling on the support post, she started the back and forth motion. Closing her eyes and leaning back, she allowed the rhythm to comfort her. It reminded her of how her mother rocked her as a child when the monster in the closet wouldn’t let her sleep. Her mother had been dead for many years, but remembering her joyfully brought her back. A smile crossed her lips. She released the need to think beyond the motion. Alternating between shadow and sunshine, she enjoyed both. Her other senses filed in the blanks left by her voluntary relinquishing of her sight. She allowed the sensory information to pass though her without keeping note.
Somewhere close by a vehicle drove up and parked. Moments later, the swing jolted to a halt, spilling the tea into her lap. Her eyes snapped open. Maxie stood in front of her. Angrily she jumped to her feet, the spilled tea running down the front of the robe to the ground. She tried brushing it off before more could soak in.
“I thought you heard me.”
“Does it look like I heard you?” Jane snapped. “Look what you did to Raven’s robe!”
“Sorry okay.” He snapped back.
“Will that get the stain out?” She allowed her anger to flare. It was how she felt-angry and very much put upon.
“I’ll buy her a new one. Just get off it.”
“Get off it?” Her voice rose to a shriek, sending the birds, resting in the trees, into to flight. “I’ll get off it, you and the investigation!” She spun on the balls of her feet and headed toward the back door.
He grabbed her upper arm and yanked her toward him. “You listen-”
That was enough. She allowed him to spin her partially around. Using the momentum he provided, she flung her free arm around. The heel of her hand landed firmly on his chin. Stunned, he released her, staggering backward. Her robe slipped off her shoulder, opening at the front. She ignored it and stepped into a defensive stance.
Holding his chin, he glared down at her. “I could arrest you.”
“Really officer. On what charge?” She no longer found him cute and cuddly, fun to talk and make love with; he was just one more needy person. She met his eyes. They were angry and demanding. Last week, even yesterday, she would have given in and apologized. But not today. “On what charge?” She repeated.
“Striking an officer!”
“An officer who over stepped his bounds.” She countered.
“Just get dressed. They expect us at the station.”
“I quit.” It wasn’t a decision she consciously made. The words surprised her, yet at the same instant, a heavy weight was lifted from her heart. She knew it was the right thing to do.
“We don’t have time for this!”
“I do. What you do-I don’t care.” She spun and rapidly continued toward the house.
“You can’t!
Suddenly he was in between her in the back door. “I won’t let you ruin this!”
“Just what don’t you want ruined. The investigation or your sex life.”
“What ever bug flew up your ass last night--just get over it! Just get your clothes, we‘ll talk about it at home.”
“I’m not going with you.”
“Just do it!”
A breeze bellowed the robe open further. The sun warmed her breasts. He could arrest her for indecent exposure. “No!”
Taking a deep breath, he clenched and unclenched his fists. “I love you.” His voice was calmer, but the anger boiled just beneath the surface.
“Really sounds like it.” The back door swung open and Raven stepped out. “Who could resist such loving words?”
“It none of your business!” Maxie growled.
“It’s my yard, my house, my guest, and my business.” She matched his tone.
“Bitch-dike.”
“How quick the bigotry rears its ugly head. Just yesterday we were good friends.”
“Raven’s not a--”
“Don’t explain!” She walked down the steps. “Get lost or do I make a phone call to your supervisor? I’m sure she’d be real interested in this conversation. “
“What about your secrets?”
“Secrets? I don’t have any secrets. My life is an open book.” Raven smiled nastily. “You are the one who broke the departmental policy.”
“Jane doesn’t work for--”
“But I do!” Raven firmly planted her fists on her hips. “You have invaded my privacy. You have made sexual comments.”
“Jane this isn’t over!” Snapping around heal to toe, he marched back to his truck. The engine roared to life and leaped backward. The tires screeched and he was gone.
“Gee that was fun!” Raven reached out and closed the opening of Jane’s robe. “You keep flashing my neighbors and poor, old Mr. Radcliff is going to have a heart attack and the brat boys next door will have accidents in their drawers.”





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Wiccan Fantasy Novel of suspense, romance, and horror

From Lord of the Rings to Mist of Avalon YouTube Fantasy Videos

Magical Fantasy Novel: Strong Female Characters in the Style of McCaffrey and Bradley

Magical Fantasy Novel: Strong Female Characters in the Style of McCaffrey and Bradley
By
Theresa Chaze


Where Anne McCaffrey and Marion Zimmer Bradley left off, Theresa Chaze's Dragon Clan series picks up. Strong female characters are led on adventures within and without as they are forced to face others' bigotries and their own inner doubts. Filled with actual Wiccan rituals and spells, the Dragon Clan Trilogy not only tempts the reader to turn just one more page, but also gives a glimpse into the Earth based religions. Far from perfect, the characters must decide just how much faith they have in the powers of justice or if they want to risk karmic reprisals by putting their magical fingers on the scales.

Filled with magic, suspense and karmic justice the Dragon Clan Trilogy begins with Awakening the Dragon (978-0-9798406-0-9) with Rachael moves to Coyote Springs to find a safe home and fulfill her dream of opening an occult bookstore. The location for her store has been found. Only she has yet to find a home for herself and her three furkids. A reluctant real estate agent shows her a cottage in the woods that is perfect. It calls to Rachael and opens its doors to her. To her it feels like home. But it is more than a cottage, it is a spiritual nexus where three lay lines intersect; it is a natural energy vortex. It is also the scene of a brutal murder and the focal point to local cult's hatred. Making the cottage her home, Rachael finds herself becoming the catalyst to exposing the murderer, which brings her in the crosshairs of the cult’s violent hatred not only to protect their secret but because the she is another witch. To save herself and all she loves, she is forced to awaken her dragon spirit prematurely and unite it to the energy vortex. She knows what must be done. What she doesn't know if she can control the flames from within enough to save her from the flames without. (Currently available)

Dragon Domain (978-0-9798406-1-6) picks up the story several months and several miles down the road. Cheyenne and Celeste came to Coyote Springs to use their psychic gifts to find a missing child. They find the girl and made a new friend, Jane. Tired of rootless life, Cheyenne prays for a safe, stable home. With Jane's help, she find abandoned farm and decides to stay. Reluctantly, Celeste also remains. The threesome create a spiritual retreat that grows out of their shared wisdom, respect and sense of family. Cheyenne is happy for the first time since she awoke broken and bloody beneath the blinding desert son. Celeste had saved her then, but soon after Dominic appears on their doorstep, Celeste once again turns to the dark arts. Instead of a savior, she becomes vicious enemy with knowledge of all her strengths and weaknesses. With the dragons' aid, she was barely able to ward off their initial attack. But with each dark soul Celeste and Dominic bind to them, their malevolence grows until they will not settle for less that destroying Cheyenne and all she loves. How do you protect yourself from someone knows exactly how to steal your soul? (Available November 30, 2007)

In Return of the Dragon Clan, the women from the Dur'ga valley reunite to heal each others' old wound and to finally receive justice for the great harm done to them eons ago. Betrayed by one of their own, they were butchered and enslaved. One by one, they are lead to Coyote Springs as their souls cry out for justice. In Coyote Springs, they once again meet the sister who betrayed them and her lover, who sought to steal their land. However, justice will only be served if the elemental dragons can survive the unification into a Spiritual Quad. Coming together on the spiritual plane, they are forced to face their old fears and wounds or find themselves burning from within as they loose control karmic flames of they have unleashed. (Available spring 2008)

Buy this book! I found myself smiling when I finished the last page of Awakening The Dragon--Book One of the Dragon Clan Trilogy (formally Dragon's New Home), by Theresa Chaze. I've read a pretty good number of books in my life, but none have given me quite the mix of emotions that this books has.
Joe Murphy, The Dragon Page http://www.dragonpage.com/

Magic, Mystery, and Murder. The three M's! Ms. Chaze shows colorful, visual language that will even keep the romance novel buff obsessed in finishing this novel in one read! The pacing is excellent the main character strong and likeable, and the hint of romance to come in the final installments of the trilogy. I must say I'm already addicted to Ms. Chaze's writing style! A guaranteed page turner! Bring on the rest of the trilogy!
Catherine J. St. Amour, author

Therese Chaze draws her readers in from the first page and refuses to release them until the last word of this fantastic tale of witches, magic, love and betrayal. Set in the village of Coyote Springs, Dragon Domain is a book of lessons; lessons on love, forgiveness, and above all truth to oneself. In the grand traditions of Anne McCaffrey and Marion Zimmer Bradley, Therese Chaze captures the imagination as well as the heart of her readers. Dragon Domain is an open door to a world of wonder, and from the first page to the last, you will be hard pressed to put it down.
Linda Rucker, author

Magical Fantasy Novel for Those Who Want Real Magic Instead of the Make Believe of Harry Potter

Rebirth of Magical Fantasy
By
Theresa Chaze

If you enjoy a good magical fantasy in the style of Marion Zimmer Bradley, Anne McCaffrey and Harry Potter, you will enjoy Theresa Chaze's novels, Awakening the Dragon and Dragon Domain Filled with magic, suspense and romance, the residents of Coyote Springs will entice and frighten you as they face challenges that come from within and without.
Magic, suspense and romance intertwine in Awakening the Dragon--Book One of the Dragon Clan Trilogy (ISBN 1-58961-432-3) as Rachael moves to Coyote Springs to follow her dream; instead of finding peace with her new store and new home, she becomes the catalyst in exposing a murderer and the target of a violent cult. To protect herself and her loved ones, Rachael risks everything by awakening her dragon spirit prematurely. As the dragon rises within her, the cult surround her home with the intent on killing the new witch who lives inside and burning the evidence of the murder of the previous owner.
Dragon Domain--Book Two of the Dragon Clan Trilogy (ISBN 1-58961-463-1) picks up the story a few months later as the Dragon Clan begins to reassemble at the safe haven Cheyenne has created on the Northern Michigan farm. Cheyenne was happy until an old love from Celeste‘s past appeared at their door. Rapidly the darkness of the night brought terror as sacrificial blood was shed. Cheyenne tried to warn her. Celeste refused to listen. She let him in. No one was safe from his darkness. Cheyenne called the dragons. They drove him back. Then they joined together in an old evil. Alone Cheyenne was barely able to defeated him, but now with Celeste’s help and knowledge of all her weakness, how could she possibly stop them from stealing her very soul and all those she loves?
Excerpts can be read and the ebook versions can be bought from www.theresachaze.com, as can her Ebook of Shadows, Out of the Shadows and Into the light. In addition, her free ebook Sisters, Mothers, Daughters and her free ezine, Messages from the Universe can be downloaded. To read excerpt of her novels please click the links below.



http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/EXCERPATD.pdf

http://www.geocities.com/tirgana/ecerptDD.pdf

www.theresachaze.com

Choices of the Gods--Sometimes you just want the dragon to win

Never Can Say Good-bye--a love story, a mystery, a tale of horror
by
Theresa Chaze



INT: HALLWAY: MID-AFTERNOON
Michael tapes the wall with a hammer, marking with an "X" where he hears a hollow sound. He is a middle-aged man, who looks more like he should be swinging an ax cutting down forest than a scholar teaching college history. His brown hair is held back in a ponytail. His brown eyes are determined. Using a crowbar, he pries the panels from the wall, exposing a door. He drops the crowbar and turns the doorknob. The door slowly creaks open. The room is dark and musty. The door hits the wall behind it. Michael stands in the entrance, framed in the hallway light. He takes the flashlight from his back pocket and shines it around the room, revealing part of the four poster bed. A slight breeze blows past. He doesn't notice.

INT: BEDROOM: MID-AFTERNOON
Stepping further into the room, the beam hit the dusty glass of a dressing table mirror; it is cracked. The light reflects on a rocker, which is moving as if someone has just gotten out of it. Michael stops its motion, scanning the light around the room. He is alone. Narrow bands of sunlight shine through the shutters. Directing the beam toward the window, he sets down the flashlight. He opens the shutters. Sunlight filters through the dust and overgrown ivy on the outside. He tries to open the window; it's nailed shut. He turns and surveys the room. Shane is standing in the doorway, her hands on her hips. Long auburn hair and delicate featured, Shane gives off the aura of being a much larger, stronger woman, yet she is very sensuous in her movements. She is in her late twenties-early thirties.

MICHAEL
Shit!

SHANE
(Angrily)
What did you do?

MICHAEL
I told you it was here.
(Trying to pull her into the room)
Come help me explore!

SHANE
Mike this isn't our house. We said wallpaper, paint!

MICHAEL
She'll be happy we found it.

SHANE
It was boarded up for a reason.

MICHAEL
Ghosts, maybe?
(Bouncing on the bed)
Let's have an adventure.

INT: HALLWAY: MID-AFTERNOON
SHANE
(Running down the hallway)
No!

MICHAEL
(Following)
Shane!

He catches up to her at the top of the stairs.

What's the matter?

SHANE
I hate this house!

MICHAEL
It's perfect for us.

SHANE
It's too big. It's too far out. It's too old.

MICHAEL
You have your own studio. The acoustics of the ballroom are fabulous for your band. Not only is it a great place to rehearse, but with a few modifications it could be a recording studio.

SHANE
It gives me the creeps!

MICHAEL
That'll change once we make it ours. Besides what ghost would stay after one of my student-faculty parties?

SHANE
(Pouting)
Is that supposed to make me feel better?

MICHAEL
No. This is.

He kisses her, gently pulling her back down the hall.
SHANE
(Resists)
Not in that bed.

MICHAEL
Our bed.

She kisses him and they go to their bedroom.

EXT: COLLEGE CAMPUS: MID-AFTERNOON
Judy Olson is showing Elizabeth Downing around the Bellow's University Campus. It is a medium size college in a rural setting. Most of the buildings are from the forties and fifties. However the football stadium and the Ramsdell Building stand out; not only are they the newest, but the do not conform to the rest of the structures. A woman in her mid to late sixties, Judy is a determined woman. Perfectly dressed in the latest designer fashion, she is very used to getting what she wants and is willing to bulldoze any opposition. Casually and comfortable dressed, Elizabeth is secure in her own self. A woman in her mid-forties, she no longer has to prove herself. She is clearly disinterested in anything Judy has to say. Instead her attention is absorbed by her surroundings.
JUDY
The fall term starts in two weeks. We have staff meetings
in my office every week. Your department meets on Thursday.
ELIZABETH
Fine.

JUDY
Tomorrow at nine am is the first general staff meeting. Mitchell Hall. Room 102.

They walk past an elaborate fountain. Elizabeth stops.

I'll introduce you then.
ELIZABETH
It's beautiful. Sara Jane Bellows Memorial?

JUDY
(Irritated)
My father's first wife. When he created the university, he insisted on the ugly thing.

ELIZABETH
He must have loved her very much.
JUDY
(Walking toward the Ramsdell building)
Saturday is the Annual Bellows Ball. It's a fundraiser.

Elizabeth lingers at the fountain. She walks around it, stopping to stare at the mother and child in the center. She notices the inscription that runs around the edge that reads "Love that is not forgotten never dies. You remain a part of me as I remain a part of you. Each moment we shared shall remain in my heart until we are again reunited."

(Annoyed)
Ms Downing! Your office is this way.

ELIZABETH
How can you call it ugly? How can you call a symbol of love ugle?

JUDY
As I was saying. The Bellows Ball is on Saturday. This year we're doing a period theme. The logging era. It'll be great fun.

INT: OFFICE BUILDING HALLWAY: MID-AFTERNOON
Judy and Elizabeth walk in.
ELIZABETH
I'll try to be there.

JUDY
The staff is required to come.
(Unlocking the first door on the left)
I made sure it was in your contract. The Theatre Department has costumes that are suitable.

ELIZABETH
You are very thorough.

JUDY
(Opening the door)
This is your office.

ELIZABETH
Computer. Fax. Refrigerator. Bit much for a temp.

JUDY
I'll convince you to stay.

ELIZABETH
That won't happen.

JUDY
A writer of your caliber--

ELIZABETH
You mean fame.

JUDY
Would be very good for our students. Coyote Springs is a wonderful place to settle down.

ELIZABETH
If you're into that sort of thing.

JUDY
Skiing winter and summer. Swimming. Clean air. Good, wholesome family people.

ELIZABETH
Do you have a copy of my teaching schedule?

JUDY
It's on your desk. You were in such a demand we had to add a few classes and one more workshop.

ELIZABETH
I'm only contracted for three classes and two workshops. With a limit of fifteen students per workshop.

JUDY
We just assumed you wouldn't mind. You'll have an assistant.

ELIZABETH
Why would you assume that?

JUDY
You wouldn't want to disappoint your fans.

ELIZABETH
I'm here to teach writing skills. I sign autographs at bookstores.

JUDY
Would you consider the extra classes?

ELIZABETH
Let's understand each other right off. I never wanted to be a teacher nor will I be here longer than the one term. I'm here doing a friend a favor. Nothing more. Your brother took a chance on me twenty years ago by publishing my first novel. He asked me to help boost enrollment by teaching a term and I never forget a kindness.

JUDY
I arranged for you to see a few houses that are available tomorrow afternoon.

ELIZABETH
I'll be staying at the hotel

JUDY
Don't forget the staff meeting tomorrow. Nine am sharp.

Judy leaves. Elizabeth leans against the door, her forehead bumping on it. Lynne slides in the partially open door. She is in her mid-thirties long black curls intermixed with tiny braids and intensely brown eyes, which sparkle with humor and old time wisdom.

LYNNE
Beating up on yourself won't help.

Elizabeth backs away from the door. Lynne opens it further.

Lynne Mason. Psychologist. Parapsychologist. Neighbor extraordinaire.

ELIZABETH
How nice.

LYNNE
So you know. Bathrooms are around the corner on the left. Break room slash conference room further down on the right. Hum. You have your own frig. That's one way to suck up. My office and lab is 104 and 105. Michael Scott, famous historian is in 106. Need anything. Just ask.

Lynne turns to walk out the door.

ELIZABETH
That's it?

LYNNE
Darlin' you just spend most of the day with Madam Judy, you can't handle any else.

ELIZABETH
Persistent bitch isn't she.

LYNNE
With selective hearing. If you're smart you'll run now. She wants "the famous" writer to stay. Madam Judy always gets what she wants.

ELIZABETH
This will be a learning experience for her.

LYNNE
It'll be fun to watch. From a safe distance. Later.

Lynne returns to her office. Elizabeth closes the door. She walks to the window and stares at the fountain.

INT: SHANE AND MICHAEL'S BEDROOM: LATE AFTERNOON
The sun shines through the curtains, making a pattern on the foot of the bed. Both Michael and Shane are asleep. Michael is dreaming.

INT: MICHAEL AND SHANE'S BEDROOM: DREAMTIME
Michael hears a small boy giggling and a woman laughing. He gets out of bed and follows the sound out of the room.

INT: HALLWAY: DREAMTIME
Michael follows the sounds to the hidden room; he stops at the door. The hidden room is fresh and clean, filled with fresh flowers and bright sunshine. A toddler is being rocked by a woman in her late teens. She is dressed in the style of the late 1920's. Her hair worn long and free, she is a shapely young woman with laughing eyes and an easy smile. The woman physically resembles Shane. Yet there is a joy and incense in her that is lacking in Shane.
MICHAEL
Sara Jane.

They notice him for the first time. The toddler calls him Daddy. Sara Jane turns and smiles at him. He runs to her, embracing them both.

Why did you leave me?

INT: HALLWAY: LATE AFTERNOON

SHANE
Michael? Michael, where are you?

INT: HIDDEN BEDROOM: DREAMTIME
Michael looks toward the door as Shane walks into the doorway. The image of an older woman superimposes itself on the younger. The image's otherwise beautiful features are distorted by rage and hatred. She is taller and more shapely than Shane, yet their posture and body language are the same. He stands up to face her.
SHANE/IMAGE
What are you doing?

Michael snaps awake.

INT: HIDDEN BEDROOM: REAL TIME-LATE AFTERNOON
Michael snaps awake. He is standing beside the rocker.
SHANE
(Angry)
What are you doing in here?

MICHAEL
I don't know. I must have been sleep walking

SHANE
You never did that before.

MICHAEL
There was woman and a little boy. He called me daddy.

SHANE
Aunt Judy has friends who can find us a nice house in town.

MICHAEL
(Looking at his watch)
Ohmygod! The office closes in fifteen minutes. I forgot my schedule.

He pushes past her.

INT: MICHAEL AND SHANE'S BEDROOM: LATE AFTERNOON
Michael runs in and starts dressing. Shane follows more slowly and sits on the bed. I'll call. You can pick it up tomorrow.

MICHAEL
And break one of Madam Judy's precious rules.

SHANE
I wish you wouldn't call her that. She's my aunt.

MICHAEL
She may be your aunt but I'm no longer the star on campus. I haven't written a new book in five years.

SHANE
Come back to bed and I'll write you a note.

MICHAEL
Be back so fast you won't have a chance to miss me.

SHANE
Too late.

Michael quickly kisses her and runs out of the room.

INT: RAMSDELL BUILDING HALLWAY: LATE AFTERNOON
Elizabeth knocks on Lynne's office doorway.

LYNNE
(From inside)
Come in.

Elizabeth opens the door.

ELIZABETH
(Holding up two fingers)
Peace.

LYNNE
Were we at war?

ELIZABETH
I'm usually not such a bitch.

LYNNE
I understand. Have a seat.

Elizabeth walks in

INT: LYNNE'S OFFICE: LATE AFTERNOON
Elizabeth sits in the chair opposite Lynne's.
LYNNE
Have you had a chance to see much of our little hamlet?

ELIZABETH
Nice old houses. Lots of history. Reminds me of a town I created in one of my novels. A woman killed all the people who hurt her son.

LYNNE
Did she get away with it?

ELIZABETH
Not really. When all was said and done, none of their deaths took away any of her pain. Have you found many ghosts?
LYNNE
Some. Hauntings aren't always entities. Usually it's just pent up memories working themselves out.

ELIZABETH
Most of my friends believe in ghosts.

LYNNE
Don't you?

ELIZABETH
I don't know. I believe once it's over, it's over and time to move on.

LYNNE
Sounds like a story.

ELIZABETH
The shortened version. I was married to the man of my dreams. We planned to explore the world--to never set down roots or gather baggage. But then he changed. He wanted the house, kids, and the stuff. I never wanted kids. He put down roots. I got claustrophobic.

LYNNE
Everyone needs a home base.

ELIZABETH
(Shrugs)
I bought a house. My mother and two nieces live in it. I visit and rest up. Usually after a couple of weeks the walls start closing in.

LYNNE
So what are you doing in a place where the grass yawns as it comes up?

ELIZABETH
I promised a friend.

LYNNE
Must be some friend.

ELIZABETH
Couldn't have done it without him. So what's your story. How did a Parapsychologist end up in back water USA?

LYNNE
I was born here. The nerd that everyone picked on. I escaped to college. Graduate top ten of my class, thank you very much. Dual majored in Psychology and Parapsychology, with a minor in Electronics.

ELIZABETH
That's some combination.

Lynne shrugs.

So how did you end up back here?

LYNNE
I was working at the Parapsychology Research Institute. Amanda Ramsdell had a problem. She called. The Institute sent Dave and me.

ELIZABETH
Dave?

LYNNE
A highly evolved soul with cute buns who makes my heart goes pitter-pat. We solved Amanda's problem. I fell in love with Dave. Dave falls in love with the area. Amanda is impressed with our work and wants to help. The two of them convince the Institute that this would be a wonderful place for an annex. They agree. We set up a lab and classes. For a while we both investigated hauntings. But I had a problem a few months ago and lost my nerve. So now Dave goes on his own. It's a way of doing research and giving back for our many blessings. He travels. I stay here and compile the data from him and others like us.

(Pointing around the room at the equipment)

Between Amanda and the Institute, this building and the program are fully funded. It's totally independent. It drives Madam Judy crazed.

ELIZABETH
That must be fun to watch.

LYNNE
(Checking her watch)
I have to do a favor for a friend. Do you want to have dinner?

ELIZABETH
Where do you want me to meet you?

LYNNE
My house. I love to cook and with Dave away I've been living on take out.
(Rapidly writing down her address)
Here. Give me a couple of hours.

ELIZABETH
(Taking the piece of paper)
Do you want me to bring anything?

LYNNE
Just your appetite.

INT: HIDDEN BEDROOM: LATE AFTERNOON
Shane nervously takes a few steps into the room. She looks around. It's quiet. She walks to the closet and opens it. Clothes from the 1920's are still hanging in it. She touches them. Taking one out, she holds it up and looks at herself in the mirror. The crack distorts her image. Tossing the dress on the bed, she smugly picks up the silver hairbrush and brushes her hair. The rocker slowly starts moving. She sees the image in the mirror. Setting the brush down, she slowly turns to look at it. The window slams open. Shane screams and runs to the door. It slams shut before she can reach it. She pulls on the knob. It moves easily but the door won't open. She screams. The curtains blow into the room. The rocker creaks. Shane turns around.

INT: OFFICE BUILDING HALLWAY: LATE AFTERNOON
Lynne is picking up her mail. Michael runs in. The office door is locked.
MICHAEL
(Punching the door)
DAMN!

LYNNE
Hey, Cute One. Looking for this?
(Holding up a folder)
Didn't want Madam Judy to spank.

MICHAEL
Thanks.

They walk toward each other. Lynne gives Michael the folder

I need to talk to you.

LYNNE
I know that tone. What did Shane do now?

MICHAEL
Please don't.

LYNNE
That tone usually means you need my help cleaning up after her.

MICHAEL
That room I told you about. The one that was part of the original house, not the additions from the second marriage.

LYNNE
I haven't had a chance to ask Amanda about it.

MICHAEL
I found it. I-I couldn't wait.

LYNNE
Michael you didn't!

MICHAEL
That's what Shane said.

LYNNE
If you're going to get nasty, I'm leaving.

MICHAEL
You would think it'd be all dusty. Full of cobwebs. It isn't. The bed's made. The dressers are neat. It's like it was closed up last week. Could you bring your equipment and check it out for me?

LYNNE
I'd gotten better readings if I had been there.

MICHAEL
How about tomorrow? After the meeting?

LYNNE
What's the rush now? Something jump out at you?

MICHAEL
No, but--

LYNNE
Shane will have a fit.

MICHAEL
She's spending the day with her mother.

LYNNE
So I won't have to deal with a jealous tirade?

MICHAEL
Swear.

LYNNE
(Walking toward the exit)
We'll work out the details tomorrow. I'm having dinner with the new star on campus.

MICHAEL
What's she like?

LYNNE
Skittish. See you later Cute One.

INT: HIDDEN BEDROOM: LATE AFTERNOON
Shane is curled up in the corner; her back pressed against the door. She is watching the rocker sway back and forth. A male apparition dressed in 1920's lumberjack clothing, walks through the closed door. He is in his early twenties. He is unshaven and more than a little drunk. Sadly he walks around the room humming the same tune over and over. Terrified, Shane watches unable to move.
RANDOLPH
Sara Jane. Where are you? I need you.
(Slumping in the rocker)
I've betrayed you.

Sara Jane's ghost appears in the mirror.

SARA JANE
You mustn't cry.

RANDOLPH
I was going to take Randy to your sister. Amanda's young, but she loves him. She'll be marrying Leonard soon. He would be safe and happy with them.

SARA JANE
Our son needs his father.

RANDOLPH
Audrey's pregnant. I only married her so she would care for him. I couldn't loose you both. I tried to love her. But I can't! She knows I only love you. She so jealous. I was going to join you...but now...Audrey doesn't have any family. No one to care for her.

SARA JANE
Or your child. It's all right to want to love him or her. It's natural to love your children. It's one reason I stay close. Audrey loves you. It hurt her to know you don't love her back. Maybe I should leave.

RANDOLPH
No! I forbid it! If you love me, you'll wait for me.

AUDREY
(Screaming from the doorway)
Blasphemy!

The apparition of a stern woman in her late twenties stands at Shane's feet. She is tall and voluptuous.

RANDOLPH
Audrey don't.

AUDREY
(Making the sign of the cross)
A devil.

RANDOLPH
Sara Jane's my wife.

AUDREY
I'm your wife!

SARA JANE
I've only stayed to protect my son. You don't sing to him enough.

AUDREY
I won't listen to you. You're dead.
(To Randolph)
I'll get the priest to exorcise this house.

RANDOLPH
No!

AUDREY
We'll never be happy while she's here. I love you. Please darling think of our child.

RANDOLPH
I am. I don't love you. I love her. If you do anything to make her spirit leave his house, child or no, I'll cut you out of my will, give my son to his Aunt Amanda and put a bullet in my head. You will have nothing.

AUDREY
Love or not, I am still the mother of your child. No matter where you go or what you do, I will always own you. Nothing you can do will change that.

The angle of the sun reaches the point where it floods the room with light. The apparitions disappear. Shane is alone. She reaches up and turns the knob. The door opens easily. She runs out of the room.

INT: HALLWAY: LATE AFTERNOON
Shane runs down the hall. She stops at the top of the stairs. Looking back, a smile appears on her lips. Slowly she walks to her bedroom.

EXT: SMALL TOWN SIDE STREET: EARLY EVENING
Elizabeth walks up to the gate of an old house. It is the largest and oldest on the street. It's very elaborate in every detail. A younger woman pushes an elderly woman in a wheel chair through the gardens. The younger woman leans forward to listen then walks toward the gate. Elizabeth turns to leave.
ELAINE
May I help you?

ELIZABETH
I just stopped to admire your house. It's very old.

ELAINE
One of the oldest in town.
ELIZABETH
Could you tell me where Tower Drive is?

ELAINE
It's two blocks up on your left. It dead-ends at the old gatehouse. Are you new in town?

ELIZABETH
Only visiting. Thank you for the directions

Elizabeth continues down the street. Elaine returns to the Amanda's side. Amanda is in her late eighties/early nineties. A stroke left her with unable to walk and a slight lisp. But her eyes reveal her sharp mind and equally sharp tongue.

AMANDA
What did she want?

ELAINE
Directions.

AMANDA
To where?

ELAINE
Tower Drive. She must be one of Lynne's friends.

Amanda stares after Elizabeth until she is out of sight.

Do you know her?

AMANDA
Take me inside.

ELAINE
What's wrong? Don't pull that with me. We've been together to long. It doesn't scare me. I know you're upset. I just don't know why. Was it that woman? Amanda talk to me.

AMANDA
She reminded me of my sister.

ELAINE
Sara Jane?
(Looking down the street)
She's gone.

AMANDA
It wasn't her. Take me inside. I'm tired.

INT: SHANE AND MICHAEL'S FRONT ENTRANCE WAY: EARLY EVENING.
Several suitcases have been carelessly stacked by the front door. Shane watches out the window. When she sees Michael drive up, she returns to the small waist high table to continue writing. Michael walks in and sees the suitcases.
MICHAEL
Shane?

SHANE
I was going to leave you a note. I'm not spending another night in this house. After the gig tonight, I'm going to my mother's.

MICHAEL
Why? What happened?
SHANE
You never listen.

MICHAEL
I am. Tell me.

SHANE
I didn't want to live here, but guess what you moved us in anyway. I wanted a child. You said wait. We've been married for two years and I'm still childless.

MICHAEL
Is that what's this is about? A child? What about your music?

SHANE
I can do both.

MICHAEL
Why now?

SHANE
If not now, when. Mike, you are 44 years old.

MICHAEL
Thanks. I know how old I am.
SHANE
Don't you want to be able to participate in your child's growing up?

MICHAEL
I'm not that old!

SHANE
Do you want to be a geezer father?
(Kissing his neck)
Think about. How could I push your wheel chair and the baby stroller? I don't think they make that combination.

MICHAEL
You're not playing fair.

SHANE
(Unbuttoning his shirt)
Will it get me what I want?

MICHAEL
We'll talk about.
SHANE
That's not how you make babies.
(Pulling him toward the stairs)
But I'll show you what does.

INT: LYNNE'S SCREENED IN BACK PORCH: EVENING
Lynne and Elizabeth are drinking wine and watching the sun set.
LYNNE
This is my favorite spot.

ELIZABETH
It's comfy. Dinner was great. It's the only thing I really miss about my lifestyle. No home cooking.

LYNNE
I love to cook. But it's not as much fun without someone to share it with. Dave comes home on the weekends and I really cook.

ELIZABETH
I'm sure some of it's even done in the kitchen.

Lynne smiles.

All the other houses seem newer.

LYNNE
They are. Amanda sold off most of the estate so she could buy the Bellow's house. All she has left is the main house and this cottage.
(Pointing around the room)
This was the old Gatehouse.

ELIZABETH
Why?

LYNNE
Randolph's children from his second marriage were going to tear it down. Amanda always said her sister Sara Jane would come back and she wanted the house to be waiting for her.

ELIZABETH
Like a ghost?

LYNNE
Amanda believes Sara Jane will incarnate here. That she has unfinished business. Something to do with the death of her son. Anyway, she is going to give her the house.

ELIZABETH
How will she know?

LYNNE
She says she'll know. But she better make it fast. Amanda is ninety-five. Last year we nearly lost her to a stroke. She's confined to a wheel chair now.

ELIZABETH
I think I saw her on the way here. She gave me the shivers.

LYNNE
She's a strong lady. Would you like more wine?

ELIZABETH
Please.

Setting her glass on the table, Lynne returns to the kitchen. Elizabeth walks around the room, looking at the back yard. She imagines what the grounds originally looked like--being able to see all the way to the main house. There would be a fountain, with ducks and swans swimming and milling about. A vine covered, white gazebo with chairs to sit and read in. And a woman, her long hair up in a bun, longer dress, and a smile that revealed unconditional love.
LYNNE
(Carrying the bottle)
What's so interesting?

ELIZABETH
Huh?

LYNNE
I was wondering what was so interesting.

ELIZABETH
I was imagining what the estate would have looked like.

LYNNE
There is a portrait in the main hallway. It was beautiful.
(Refilling both glasses)
Dead soldier.

ELIZABETH
Good thing I walked. Would it be unethical for you to tell me what kind of problem she had.

LYNNE
(Shrugs)
We originally thought Sara Jane had returned. She had been seen for years before. Then she just vanished.

ELIZABETH
Who was it?

LYNNE
There were two. Amanda's father, James Ramsdell and Leonard Durkman. Leonard and Amanda were going to get married. James shot him to stop it.

ELIZABETH
In cold blood?

LYNNE
So the story goes. He got away with it too. At least until Leonard's body was dug up. The charm that kept his spirit attached to his body was moved. His spirit was freed. James spirit was still in the house. The two of them started a war that spilled over to this side. Got a little bloody. Very destructive.

ELIZABETH
What did you do?

LYNNE
At first ducked. We were finally able to isolate them. James would only listen to me. It drove Dave a little nuts. But eventually we got them both to cross over. But not without a lot of bitching.

ELIZABETH
(Holding up her glass)
To success stories.

LYNNE
Here. Here.

INT: HIDDEN BEDROOM: DREAMTIME
Six year old Randy is being rocked by Sara Jane. She is singing to him. They are both happy. From the hallway, Audrey calls him. The little boy stiffens with fear. Sara Jane calms him, motioning for him to be silent. Slowly the door closes and locks itself. Moments later Audrey tries to open it.
AUDREY
(From the opposite side of the door)
Randy, open the door. Let Mamma in.
(Angrily rattles the doorknob)
I don't have time for this. You're sisters need me. If you don't unlock the door, I'll use the key and you'll be punished again.
(Keys jingle and the door opens
From Audrey's perspective, Randy is sitting alone in the rocker. Audrey marches into the room. Randy runs toward the bed. She catches him.

RANDY
(Squirming)
I want my Mamma!




To Read the full script email me at Tirgana@yahoo.com

Magical Fantasy Videos--Harry Potter, LOTR, Anne McCaffrey, Marion Zimmer Bradley
Video clips to amuse and excit your imagination.

Dragon Domain--Book Two of the Dragon Clan Trilogy (ISBN 1-58961-463-1) picks up the story a few months later as the Dragon Clan b Dragon Domain--Book Two of the Dragon Clan Trilogy (ISBN 1-58961-463-1) picks up the story a few months later as the Dragon Clan begins to reassemble at the safe haven Cheyenne has created on the Northern Michigan farm. Cheyenne was happy until an old love from Celeste's past appeared at their door. Rapidly the darkness of the night brought terror as sacrificial blood was shed. Cheyenne tried to warn her. Celeste refused to listen. She let him in. No one was safe from his darkness. Cheyenne called the dragons. They drove him back. Then they joined together in an old evil. Alone Cheyenne was barely able to defeated him, but now with Celeste's help and knowledge of all her weakness, how could she possibly stop them from stealing her very soul and all those she loves? (more)

Awakening the Dragon-Book One of the Dragon Clan Trilogy--an excerpt


Awakening the Dragon-

Book One of the Dragon Clan Trilogy:

an excerpt.

Awakening the Dragon--Book One of the Dragon Clan Trilogy is a magical fantasy in the style of Marion Zimmer Bradley and Anne McCaffrey with a little J R Rowlings mixed in. The main difference is that Theresa Chaze is a Wiccan Priestess includes working Wiccan rituals in her fiction. She believes that she doesn't have the right to deprive her readers of the truth about the Wiccan and Pagan religions. It is available in paper back through fine bookstores and as an ebook at www.theresachaze.com

CHAPTER EIGHT

Rachael awoke. The room was dark and unfamiliar. From the corner came the comforting sounds of scratching and the litter box being used. For a moment, she couldn't remember where she was. She lay back in the peaceful quiet, allowing herself to be warm and safe. The day crept up on her. She rolled over trying to avoid it. The memories followed. Yawning, she stretched, tucking her arms under her forehead. She wanted to drift back to sleep. If there had been a problem, someone else had dealt with it. Her stomach rumbled. Shush, she mentally told it, live off the fat of the thighs for a while. Her bladder wasn't so easily quieted.

One of the kids jumped on the bed. From the walking pattern, she suspected it was Ralph. He crossed the bed and curled up across the small of her back. The added pressure she didn't need. Licking the front of her teeth, she lifted herself on to her elbows. Gently sliding Ralph onto the bed, she sat up, her feet searching for her shoes. She slipped them on and stood. Her fingers trailing along the bed to the foot, she walked toward the table with the lamp on it. At the foot of the bed, she held her hands out in front, trying to find obstacles in front of her before she tripped over them. Good in theory, but the practice left a little to be desired. She ran into something hard where there shouldn't have been anything. Startled, she stopped. Stooping she followed it around to the table with the lamp on it. Turning it on, the brightness blinded her. She closed her eyes, giving them time to adjust. Moments later, she tested them again. Blinking rapidly, she looked around the room. Boxes were neatly stacked wherever there had been free floor space.

Merlin sat in the window looking out. He turned to her and blinked, before returning his attention to the darkness.

Both Tara and Ralph lay on the bed. Tara was asleep. Ralph stretched out on his back, where she had rolled him. He looked at her with a kitty smile on his face; he wanted his belly rubbed.

She walked across the room and sat on the bed. Smiling back at him, she scratched his belly. He purred.

Merlin jumped down from the sill onto the bed. Rubbing his full length across her free arm, he also asked for attention. She scratched his head and he harmonized with Ralph.

Rachael yawned. She was still tired and needed more rest, but not until later. She gave both a final scratch and headed for the bathroom. Some things can only wait for so long. She opened the door, quickly closing it behind her. Feeling along the wall, she found the hall switch and turned it on. The light shone into the spare bedroom, across a twin size mattress with three inhabitants. It must be later than she thought. Quietly she looked in the room. All three seemed to be breathing. That was good. She closed the door so the light no longer shone on them and went downstairs.

The kitchen was dark, but there was a light on in the living room. Turning off the stairway light, she went into the bathroom and took care of business. Crossing the dining room, she heard a low growl emanate from the living room. The closer she walked, the louder the warning became. Rachael stopped at the archway.

Carmen reclined on the sofa, her feet up and the largest German Shepherd Rachael had ever seen lay on the floor in front. The dog stared, his teeth bared; ears erect. Seeing her, he half rose to his feet. Carmen reached over and scratched his ears. He licked her hand, but kept his attention on Rachael. Carmen turned the page.

"Well?" Rachael leaned against the archway.

"Well, what?"

"You going to introduce me to your bud or do I have to get a whip and chair to walk into my own living room?"

Carmen lay the book face down on her lap. "Chester, meet Rachael."

The dog looked over his shoulder at his prone mistress.

Carmen drew a pentagram in front of him and pointed at Rachael. The dog immediately relaxed. "Rachael meet Chester."

Again she drew the pentagram and pointed at Rachael. Taking his cue the dog crossed the room sniffed her feet and her crotch. Standing on his hind legs, he placed his front paws on her shoulders and licked her face. Carmen snapped her fingers. Chester's paws hit the floor and he returned to his position next to Carmen.

Rachael wiped her face with the back of her hand. "Ick. Doggy breath."

Carmen picked up her book. "You slept through dinner. We tried. You weren't interested."

"I suspected."

"You're awake, alive and vertical. Go make your own dinner."

"Gee thanks mom." Rachael half turned toward the kitchen. "How are the girls?"

"Well fed. Tired. Confused."

"What about tomorrow?"

"Tomorrow," Carmen laid the book back down and looked at Rachael, "will be."

"One of us will have to stay with them."

"I volunteer you. What needs to be done at the Den, I can do. The stuff here only you can deal with."

"I agree." Through the window, Rachael saw the reflection of moonlight on metal and movement around it. "There's someone outside."

"Our escort."

"Didn't you invite them in?"

"They won't." Carmen pointed around the room. "They're afraid. The cottage has a rep. It's why I didn't want to stay."

Rachael unfurled her hand in front of her. "Why?"

"Stories. What people have seen and heard coming form here since Sarah died. Even Kevin doesn't stay long since his grandmother died." Carmen paused. "I must admit. It's nothing like what I expected. I wouldn't call it the welcome wagon. But I've felt safer here than in town."

"Kevin said something to that effect."

"Did the two of you talk much?"

"Jealous?" Rachael's stomach growled.

"Go eat." Carmen picked up her book and proceeded to ignore her.

Pushing her hair back over her forehead and tucking it back behind her ear, Rachael pivoted and head for the kitchen. "It' not over until--"

Carmen immediately broke into single high-pitched note which sort of resembled opera.

"You don't qualify for the role." Rachael shouted back, turning on the kitchen light.

The howling started. The singing stopped, followed by giggling.

Laughing, Rachael opened the refrigerator. Her mind filled with the image of Carmen wearing long, flowing robes, a breastplate, and brandishing a sword. The horned hat kept slipping off and rolling away. Carmen kept picking it up and proudly displaying her sword. Snickering to herself, she scanned the full shelves. Nothing looked good. Again her stomach complained about the neglect.

The shelves were full, but nothing looked good, sounded good, or smelled good. She didn't feel like cooking. It was a dilemma. She laughed at herself. Who was it who said, 'ten bags of groceries, you should be able to find something. She closed the door. What to do? She looked through the cabinet. She checked the refrigerator again, just to make sure nothing changed. It hadn't. Rats!

A black nose, attached to a brown and black furry body, appeared next to her, also looking inside. He looked up at her.

"See anything good?"

He cocked his head to one side, as if he was thinking. His head straightened. Snapping forward, he grabbed the cheese and dashed toward the dining room.

"Your son just swiped the Muenster."

"Chester. Take it back."

The taping of nails on the dining room floor halted and reversed. He dropped the unopened package on her foot. Looking up at her, he seemed to say, "you offered."

Rachael picked up the cellophane package. "I meant for me." She looked at the package. He waged his tail. He had such sad puppy-dog eyes. After all she did imply-she zipped open the bag and gave him a slice. "Don't tell your mom."

He ate it, standing next to her.

She closed the package and returned it to the fridge. Bribery was good. It didn't help her situation. Closing the door, she leaned against it, trying to imagine what would taste good. Sugar. Coke-a cold, bubbly bottle of caffeine at its best. Sighing she slide down, her touche bumping on the floor. Looking straight into the brown eyes, she whined. Chester sat down; tell me your troubles, his eyes said.

"Caffeine is my drug of choice. One sip and it'll be a six pack before breakfast by the end of next week."

"Then don't take that first sip."

Startled, Rachael snapped her head back to look up at Carmen. "Pet therapy."

"Huhu. Don't say that to anyone but a devotee of pets or they'll lock you up."

"I know." Rachael folded her arms across her chest. "What am I hungry for?"

"Food."

"Nothing sounds good." Rachael whined.

Carmen took a glass from the cabinet and filled it with water. "What are your favorite foods?"

"Lobster. Shrimp."

"Didn't see any." Carmen drank.

"Blueberries."

She placed the empty glass in the sink. "You bought blueberry yogurt and waffles."

"Don't sound good."

"Life's rough. I have to take your therapist for walk, so he can do his thing." She snapped her fingers; Chester jumped to attention. "Go for walk Weasel-boy."

Chester wagged his tail throughout most of his body.

"Ok, handsome. Let's go." She walked toward the back door, stopping just at the threshold. "Let me know how your dilemma works out."

"Sure thing."

The twosome exited through the door, carefully closing it behind it behind them. Seconds later the outside door opened and closed. Chester happily barked. Carmen laughed at him.

For an instant, she was jealous, but then she remembered the love upstairs. Dogs were great, loving and protective. Cats walked in realms most people could only imagine. Their voices grew more distant and Rachael turned her attention to the business at hand. Toast with jam and butter. Scrambled eggs with syrup and a large glass of milk.

She stood and looked around the kitchen. The covered toaster sat in the corner of the left part of the counter. She pulled the cover off. It was clean inside. She hoped it worked. She plugged it in and pushed down the lever. The elements turned red. "Good."

Gathering the ingredients for her meal, she placed a frying pan on the stove and started the butter melting. Scrambling the eggs in a bowl, she added milk, garlic and spices. Suddenly the scrambled eggs became an omelet. Turning off the heat, she diced mushrooms and onions. She tossed them in the pan and turned the heat back on. The veggies sizzled. Stirring them with one hand she reached for a tomato with the other. She placed it on the cutting board and poured the egg mixture into the pan, lowering the heat. The yellow mixture engulfed the veggies.

The sizzling from the pan was the only sound in the house. Rachael yawned. It had been a long day of reacting and more reacting. No time to think or feel-to absorb any of the changes in her life. So much needed to be sorted through, literally as well as figuratively. She hated clutter. She diced the tomato and pulled the cheese from the fridge. The eggs bubbled. She laid the Muenster on top and covered the pan. She started the toast, promising herself to start organizing first thing in the morning.

Suddenly she was a caretaker to three children who trusted her to protect them. At times she couldn't take care of herself. How long would they be together? Goddess give me a clue. She lifted the lid and turned off the heat. Grabbing a handful of tomatoes, she spread them on top and folded the omelet over, sliding the whole thing onto a plate. The toast popped up. She filled the glass with milk and returned the carton to the refrigerator along with the rest of the extra food.

She sat at the table and looked at it. It was a picture perfect meal, except she was no longer hungry. Even her stomach had changed its mind. Rubbing her eyes with the heels of her hands, she tried to clear her mind. There was so much to think about, so many decisions to be made. Her brain felt foggy. She needed it to be clear. She took a bite. It was food, not good or bad. Just food. She swallowed, chasing it down with milk.

Her furniture had to be moved out of the Den. Tomorrow supplies would start arriving; there wouldn't be room. Tomorrow she needed to make order of the mess. But tonight she needed to find her toothbrush and night stuff.

Tomorrow. And tomorrow. And tomorrow creeps in this petty pace from day to day...she still remembered the speech from high school. It's funny what the mind will dig up from the past when the present is on overload.

She forced down several more bites of the omelet, a piece of toast and the milk. Pushing the plate away, she licked the milk off her lip and lay her head down on her folded arms. So much to do; so little time. Her eyes felt heavy. She yawned. Reality began slipping, giving way to an in-between meditative state. Closing her eyes, she surrendered to it as easily as a lover's kiss.

Around her the house remained quiet. Mentally she surveyed the room. Upstairs, all the kids slept, both Meredith's and her own. She sensed it'd been a long time since the girls had an opportunity to peacefully dream of children's matters. She made a mental note to check their blankets. Returning her attention downstairs, she wafted through the dining room into the living room. As if she was standing in front of the picture window, she watched the two men. One smoked a cigarette. . The other tucked his hands deeply in his pockets. They no longer spoke. She whispered to them her gratitude and it was time to go home. The one with his hands in his pockets nervously looked around. He spoke to his companion. Rachael couldn't hear what was said, but the companion looked around and laughed. It was not her intention to frighten them. She decided to speak to them before she went to bed.

Looking out the window, she watched the leaves reflect the partial moon, casting movable shadows on the ground. Both the light and the shadows seemed muted in the little more than quarter moonlight. In a novel, there would be crickets and frogs; an owl would look down high from a tree and a mystery brewing. But this wasn't a novel. It was a peaceful moment, set aside before she went to sleep. Smiling, she enjoyed it. Some how she knew tomorrow was already well taken care of.

She wanted to remain, enjoying the picture of perfection. Instead she was compelled to return her consciousness to the kitchen. With the speed of a thought, she returned. Seeing her body in the third person, she realized her hair needed brushing and washing if it got any closer to the omelet.

Her consciousness made a dip. She snapped awake. Carefully raising her head, she pushed the plate further away. .

Outside, Chester barked; Carmen shushed him. Moments later the back porch door opened. Chester pushed his way in, followed by Carmen. He sniffed Rachael, just to check identity and turned his attention to his water dish.

"Still up?"

"Barely. Your son eat people food?"

Carmen shook her head. "Not good for him."

"Understand. How was the walk?"

"Chilly. But good. About our guard-"

"They should go home. It's late. We're safe." Rachael stood. "I'll go tell them."
Carmen motioned for her to sit. "No reason for both of us to be cold."

"Want some tea?"

Carmen shook her head. "Be back."

"Before you go. Know which box has my toothbrush in it?"

"It's in the bathroom. The girls were nice enough to unpack boxes while I made dinner." Carmen sadly shook her head. "They're good kids. Deserve better than they're getting."

"Ain't that the Goddess's honest."

Carmen slapped her thigh and walked toward the front door. Chester immediately followed.

Rachael followed only as far as the bathroom. Through the window, she watched them walk across the yard. The guys met her part way. Few minutes later, they started their bikes and were headed back toward town. Carmen picked up a stick and threw it. Chester caught it. She chased him. He chased her.

Definitely true love, Rachael thought, turning on the bathroom light. Five toothbrushes hung in the holder. One she recognized as her own. There were three children's and a yellow one that must belong to Carmen. The towels were hung. A new bar of soap was in the dish. All was clean and shiny. The girls did a spectacular job. Maybe she could hire them as maids. Smiling, she reached for her brush and squeezed toothpaste on it. It was a normal act; how refreshing. Finishing she rinsed her mouth and washed her face. Drying she felt a bit more like herself. Gratefully, she reached for the moisturizer; waking up like a prune didn't appeal to her. Looking into the mirror, she applied the creamy liquid. It was a wonderfully boring act. She finished her bathroom routine by brushing her hair.

Carmen and Chester had returned. He lay on the floor beside the sofa. "Going to bed?"

"Right after I check the girls and get you some bedding."

"Upstairs."

Rachael nodded, walking toward the stairs.

"I'll follow oh great glorious leader." Carmen whispered a few feet behind.

Rachael stopped at the foot. "Do I detect sarcasm oh mighty Tonto?"

Putting on a bad Mexican accent, Carmen touched her chest with her open palm. "Nots me Quicksdraw."

"Mixed metaphor."

"The white hat and silver bullets wouldn't suit you."
"Don't be so sure."

"Right." Carmen pushed her toward the top. "Kids. Blankets. Sleep. Norman's bringing the crew at nine to work your castle."

"Yea and ick." Rachael led the way up. Stopping at the small bedroom, she cracked the door open.

All three girls slept soundly. The stress lines around their eyes and lessened, but hadn't disappeared. Shawna lay in the middle, blanket wrapped around her arm with both hands tucked under the pillow. Melanie had partially rolled off the mattress onto the floor.

Quietly Rachael tip toed in and rolled her back, recovering her. The child stirred in her sleep, but did not wake. She reached across, pulling the blankets up over them and rejoined Carmen in the hall, closing the door behind her. "Do you think they'll be warm enough?"

"Three blankets. Each other. The house isn't that cold."

"Long as you're sure. The blankets are in the closet in my room."

"Me, sure?" Carmen followed her down the hall. "I don't know nothing 'bout no babies."

Rachael stopped and half turned, giving her a can-we-stop-now look.

Carmen snapped her hands up in front of her, palms toward Rachael feigning defensiveness. "Don't beat me, Miss Rachael. I'll stop. I'll stop."

Looking upward, Rachael shook her head. "Give me strength." She opened the door. The light was still on. "My kids." All three were curled up on the bed.

"We met when I brought your stuff up."

"They didn't try to get out?"

"I parked Chester at the top of the stairs. They were real cooperative."

Rachael's jaw dropped. "Don't ever do that again."
"Nobody got hurt. And you'll have fresh undies for the morning." Carmen held out her arms. "My blankets and pillow please."

"Just don't do it again."

"You sleep real sound. For a minute I thought you were dead."

Rachael opened the closet and pulled out a pillow. "Surprised you didn't try a mirror test."

Carmen reached for the pillow. "Couldn't find one."

"Pillow?" Rachael hit her in the chest with the pillow and reached for the blankets. "One or two."

"To be safe, two." Carmen stepped back, preparing for incoming projectiles.

Grabbing two blankets and a set of sheets, she turned and held them out to Carmen. "Night."

Tucking the pillow under her arm, she accepted the offered bedding. "Don't let the bedbugs bite."

"Not funny. Out."

Carmen pivoted on her toes and sauntered to the door. Shifting the weight in her arms, she opened it. Slipping out, she stopped, stuck out her tongue and closed the door behind her.

Yawning, Rachael shook her head. It was going to be interesting. She walked to the bed, stripping as she went. At the foot of the bed, she remembered the light and turned it off. She felt her way back to the bed. "Make room for mom.

No one moved. Gently she nudged and prodded until she found comfort. Rolling over on her stomach and tucking her arms under the pillow, she said her nightly blessing of protection and gratitude. Tara walked up the bed and curled up beside her shoulder. She closed her eyes.






















CHAPTER NINE

Rachael woke with a start, as she was suddenly ripped from the dream and thrown back into her body. She lay there dazed. The room was dark. The house was quiet. There was no reason to leave her sexual liaison. She rolled over and tried to make the jump back into the realm of sleep. Something tugged at her sense of awareness. It was annoying. Frustrated she turned over, disturbing the kids. She apologized. She sat up. She felt like a puppet with its strings being pulled taunt. She looked upward. "Ok. I'm up. What?"

Downstairs. A voice whispered in her head.

"Downstairs." She stood and felt her way to the light switch. It was covered by something warm with no real texture. "I need to find my robe."

No light.

"Swell. She felt in the darkness for her jeans and shirt. Her toe found the post of the bed as she discovered he shirt. "Shit." She whispered. "Why always at night?"

She found her jeans and slipped them on, carefully zipping them up. Arms extended she searched for the door. Crouching to prevent any escapes, she turned the knob. A late night dog-cat fight wouldn't be fun for anyone. Walking down the hall, she listened at the girls' door. She heard them breathing. Carefully she continued downstairs to the dining room. She looked toward the kitchen. It was dark. The living room was the same. Maybe Carmen called. She walked to the archway and listened. It was quiet. Hesitating, she whispered. "Carmen?"

"Rachael?" Carmen's voice quivered from the darkness. "Did you hear something?"

"I'm not sure. I just woke up."

"Why are you whispering?"

"Why are you?" Rachael retorted, unable to raise the volume of her voice. "Turn on a light."

"You."

"I can't. Something told me not to."

"Me too." The sheets rustled. "Chester yelped once and hid behind the couch."

"Why?"

"I don't know." Walking across the room, Carmen bumped into a chair. "Owe!"

"Aren't you supposed to be a sensitive?

"I am. It hurt."

"Very funny. You didn't wake me for this?"

Carmen bumped into her and stopped. "It wasn't me."

Three pair of headlights were parked on the road on either side of the driveway. Doors opened and closed. Male voices drifted across the distance.

"The cellular is in the kitchen. I'll get it." Carefully Rachael turned and held her arms in front to warn her in advance of obstacles.

"Come here, Chester." Carmen whispered.

The dog whined once and was silent.

Rachael reached the kitchen. First she checked to make sure the back door was locked. She propped a chair against the knob and reached for the phone. Outside she saw only darkness. The predicted storm must have rolled in obscuring the moon and stars. She turned it on. The buttons lit up and the dial tone buzzed. She pushed 911.

After three rings a female voice answered. "911. State the nature of your emergency."

"My name is Rachael Franklin. I'm at…oh, shit, what's the address?"

"You don't know your address?"

"I just moved in. It's the cottage on the Mitchellson property. There are some men outside."

"So?"

"They're not supposed to be there. Send some help! Now!" Rachael's voice rose.

"Quiet!" Carmen snapped from the living room. "They're walking toward the house."

Rachael stumbled back to the living room, nearly dropping the phone. "Can you tell how many?"

"Hello-hello?" The disembodied voice started to sound concerned.

"I saw at least seven in the headlights."

Rachael brought the receiver back to her mouth. "There are at least seven. Maybe more. I was threatened today by the House of Christ."

"I understand Ms Franklin. I found a note about you. Hold on." The line went silent for a moment.

As if on cue a dim band of light appeared in the yard, as a hole in the storm clouds drifted over. It illuminated part of the yard, but was not strong enough to penetrate the trees.

Another female voice came on the line. "Ms Franklin we've dispatched officers to your location. Please stay on the line."

"How long?"

"Five to seven minutes."

Two men stepped into the yard. Someone called to them. They looked to the right and stepped back into the shadows.

"Lady, " Rachael whispered, "that's not fast enough."

"I'll get a knife." Carmen whispered.

"Back door is locked. I put a chair against it."

"Thanks. I'll check the window." Carmen made her way to the kitchen. Moments later silverware rattled. "Shit. I can't see anything."

"Two knives in the sink. I didn't wash them after dinner."

"Thank Goddess for messiness."

"Ms Franklin-Ms Franklin?"

Checking the front door lock, Rachael brought the phone to her mouth. "Lady, we're a bit busy. Don't have time to chat. Just send help." She dropped the phone on the desk. The woman at the other end continued to talk. Doing her best not to be seen through the window, Rachael pushed the desk in front of the door. The weight of the computer made it heavier than she expected. The dragging sound echoed through the house.

Carmen ran back. "What?"

"Moving the desk to block the door."

"Good. Here." Something touched her shoulder. It was Carmen's hand with one of the knives in it. "Next time use something bigger than a paring knife."

Rachael took it. "Warn me in advance and I will."

The hole traveled beyond the lawn, leaving darkness behind it. A man crept around the perimeter toward the house. He waved his hand forward. Two more joined him. Only their movement revealed their locations.

Chester whined.

Both Carmen and Rachael jumped, startled by the sound inside the house.

"Carmen, what's wrong with him. He didn't seem like the nervous type."

"He isn't. That's what scares me. He once took on two muggers. No problem." Carmen's voice quivered with fear. "I don't understand. They shouldn't be able to get so close."

"What do you mean?"

"I heard the cottage had special protection--a guardian who wouldn't allow men to do harm."

Suddenly a piece fell into place and Rachael understood what she needed to do. "Guardian spirits, I give you leave to protect me and mine. To do what is necessary to defend us and prevent them from doing harm." The air around them quickly charged with a high pitched buzzing, which radiated outward.

Carmen grabbed her arm. "What did you do?"

'What was necessary."

One man screamed and pointed. He pushed past the three men. Another shouted at him. The man ignored him, continuing down the driveway toward the trucks. To the left of the house, a man yelled for help; the fear in his voice becoming terror. Suddenly he was silent. One man ran a few steps into the center of the yard, calling to him. The all around screams intertwined with growls. Pain flooded another man's incoherent voice. A shot ran out; quickly followed by another.

In unison, Rachael and Carmen jumped, startled by the shot.

Another break in the clouds illuminated the yard. Two men joined the one in the front yard. They tried pulling him toward the road. . He fought them, pointing at the house and yelling. A Tiger leaped from the shadows. It pushed him to the ground. He disappeared beneath its sheer mass His companions were knocked away. He screamed. They ran toward the road. One was caught nearly immediately. He screeched once. The other one didn't look back. Zigzagging, he raced to the pickups. The felines close on his heels.

A man banged on the front door, begging to be let in.

Startled, Rachael jumped away from the door, bumping into Carmen. She knew what was about to happen. She had called them--gave them permission to do what they must to protect them. She could stop it with a single thought. But that was not really an option. To stop them now would only lead to more blood shed in the future. The banging increased. The doorknob rattled. The man attempted to break in. The door vibrated. He screamed obscenities. The door violently shook. The growling came down to the porch. The screaming increased in pitch. A heavy object was thrown against the door. The screaming suddenly stopped. Something was dragged away and down the front stairs. Outside suddenly became silent. The hole in the clouds closed in on itself. Once again the yard was dark.

From the road, engines started. The lights shot backward. Tires screeched. One truck swerved into the ditch. The horn blasted.

In the distance, police sirens raced closer.

Rachael watched the pickup dance with an unseen partner. She gripped the knife in one hand, Carmen's forearm in the other. Beneath her fingertips, she felt Carmen's pulse racing.

The truck lights bounced and stopped. The wheels whined. Glass broke. Muffled screams intertwined with growling. Only it was different. The guardians hadn't followed them past the yard. When they were no longer a threat, the attack ended. What was happening out there had nothing to do with them. Another force had intercepted them as they had tried to escape. More canine than feline, the growling and snapping continued as the men were dragged from the pickups. The largest shadow howled, taking the physical shape of a wolf. The other three followed suite. The men dashed, running blindly. The wolf toyed with them. The men screamed. Car lights appeared in the distance. The game was over. Unlike the guardians, it was not a quick kill.