Hypocritical Christians Hijack Halloween to Make it Less Wiccan and Pagan

Hypocritical Christians Hijack Halloween to Make it Less Wiccan and Pagan

Originally called Samhain, Christians usurped the holiday, replacing it with All Saints Day. Pope Boniface IV was attempting to attract and covert Pagans. Over the decades, the celebrations became more child oriented than spiritual. Halloween became a time to dress up, trick or treat and party. A day of pretending, fantasy and community, Halloween allowed both children and adults an excuse to step out of their mundane lives and simply play. Halloween parties at school, at home or in the community are fun ways for neighbors to get to know each other a little better. Whether cowboy, astronaut, or a scary creature of the night, the costume choice is a safe, healthy venue to have an alter ego for a day.

Traditionally, Samhain is the ending of the Pagan and Wiccan year. The final harvests have been brought in and the finally preparations for winter have been made. Animals are slaughtered and their meat preserved. The death of a few insures life for others through the coming winter months. It is the day when the veils between the realms are the thinnest. The dead and earth spirits are able to walk freely among the living. Whether dead loved ones or earth spirits, this time of year communication with them is the easiest. It is the time for honoring your ancestors and making amends with those who have crossed over. Spiritually, what we have sent out comes back for good or ill. Just as the harvest has been collected, so does the karmic debt come due. The thinning curtain only makes the Deities of Justice more active and powerful. Whether it is said as "What goes around, comes around" or "So share ye sow, so shall ye reap", what we have created shall manifest as a blessing or a challenge.

A few years ago, fundamental Christians once again started attacking Halloween. Calling it Satanic, they attempted to block it from public schools and interfered with trick or treating. Last year, this sweet little girl came up to my door, but instead of seeking candy, she handed out Christian tracts, telling me how evil I am for not being Christian and for celebrating a Pagan holiday. The girl was only about six or seven; it was very cowardly for her parents to use her to do her dirty work. I calmly asked her where her parents were. She took me to her mother. I wasn’t nice so to the mother. In no uncertain terms, I called her a bigot and told her to mind her own business. If she didn’t want to participate that was fine, but she needed stop trying to ruin it for others. She then proceeded to try to covert me. She didn’t get far. I’m Wiccan and proud. She went away in a huff. To bad, so sad. But she has no right to force her believes on others.

Which brings me to my rant. I was talking to some of the neighborhood girls. I asked them how they were going to dress as for Halloween. One told me that she was going to dress as a belly dancer and was go to a Hallelujah Party. I bite my tongue and smiled. I just find it amazing how hypocritical the parents are. They change the name and think it will suddenly stop making it Pagan. A duck is a duck whether or not you call it a swan. October 31 is the Pagan holiday Samhain, not matter what you call it.

Out of the Shadows and Into the Light is an ebook of shadows that gives accurate information about the Wiccan and Pagan religions. Containing rituals and definitions of the their religious practice, Out of the Shadows and Into the Light gives information that will benefit both the beginner and the experienced magical worker, while giving accurate information to counteract the misconceptions. Out of the Shadows and Into the Light can only be bought at www.theresachaze.com

Tarot Readings.
Questions about your past, present or future. Are you seeking your new spiritual path or have questions about the radical changes in your life, I can help you see your options so you can make more informed decisons. Go to www.theresachaze.com for a Tarot reading or contact her for a mini reading. With twenty years experience, I can help you take back your power and see how turn your life to a more positive life path.

An Excerpt the Magicall Fantasy novel, Awakening the Dragon--Book One of the Dragon Clan Trilogy

Looking up at the ceiling, he envisioned a dark cave. He didn’t know where it was or how he knew it existed. Yet he knew it was a real place. A luminous fog rose out of the pile of crystals on the top a round table, which lit the entire cave. He walked to the table. Grandmother came to mind and the daydream started to fade. He pushed her away and focused his will until he returned to the same spot. Only this time, he spiritually left his bedroom behind and found himself inside the cave. He walked around it, trying to remember--the knowledge he sought teased him, dancing just outside his conscious memory. The pile pulsed and shimmered before him. Reaching out, he picked one up; it was cold to his touch. It wasn’t the starting place.

He tried another and another until he found the warm one. He lifted up level to his third eye. “Crystal of wisdom give me the knowledge I seek.” It grew hot between his fingers. His third eye pulsed. Images appeared and faded as he scanned his own soul’s history, looking for the correct sequence of crystals and sounds. In the center of the crystal, he saw himself--not as he appeared today, but then when the Saxons swept southward and he called up the furry of the channel to up turn their ships. The cave had been his home and where he worked to protect Britannia. It had been that lifetime when his power had been at his peak; it was also when his pride cost him his honor and brought him spiritually lower than where he started. Starting with good intentions, he took the blessings the Goddess bestowed on him and thought him above the others; no longer did he wish to serve, but to be served.

The sudden awareness of his own darkness nearly made him throw the crystal across the cave. But then he remembered why he came and called out to his other self. The connection was nearly immediate. He stated his need for knowledge to bring about vengeance for a wrong done to a loved one. His other self understood. The crystal turned gray then black in his hand as the distance between them disappeared and they became one. With his free hand, he reached out and spread the crystals in a circle. He didn’t need them all to complete his task, only those who reached into the darker regions. Floating his open palm above them, he quickly found the six he needed. Placing the first in the center of the table, he energized it with his own life force. It was the centerpiece and the key to the rest. He fitted the first into its natural slot like piece in a puzzle. His energy flowed into it.

“The first act was betrayal.” His voice echoed in the cave.

Kevin put the second crystal into place. “The second act was murder.” They pulsed with his energy. The third was fit into place. “The third was false witness.”

Shapeless shadows swirled around the walls of the cave, rapidly growing in number and intensity. “In the name of vengeance, I call forth the Angels of Blood.” The fourth crystal slipping into place gave them three dimensional form and freedom to fly. Encircling him, they waited for their target and access to the physical realm.

Kevin picked up the final crystal. “I name her Katherine Mitchellson. My mother. Murderer of my Grandmother. The one responsible for my Father’s death. The one who did harm to many others. All in the name of greed.” He held the it above its place, knowing that once done, it could not be undone. He hand trembled. The centuries of wisdom between these to lives flooded back to him, warning of the cost he would have to pay. Once he gave them access to the physical world, he would have no control over the Angels of Blood. They would not stop until they had reached their goal; nothing or no one got in their path would be shown mercy. Until they found their victim, they would be a plague on the earth.

They continued to circle him, waiting and watching. The air did not stir, nor did they make a sound. Yet their energy pulsed, growing stronger until their very presence created a low level hum, which reverberated off the walls, growing in strength and intensity. Impatiently they circled closer.

Kevin watched them; the crystal still hovered above his place on the table. He wanted to put it into place, yet he could not. Fighting against an unseen force, he reached. Suddenly the darken crystal in his hand shattered, knocking him backward away from the table. The last piece fell from his hand and he was abruptly back in his bedroom.

Something hit the window. His head throbbing, he arched his back to look at it. Nothing. Suddenly a fist size rock crashed through the upper pane and landed around him along with shards of glass. Startled, he jumped to his feet and ran to the window, doing his best to avoid the piece of the windowpane. Sliding the bottom window upward, he looked down.

Internet Tarot Readings
By
Theresa Chaze


The internet has opened another option for those who wish to see a glimpse into their future through the Tarot. For decades, readings were done over the telephone; for centuries beyond that, they were done live and in person. However, with the internet and email, tarot readings have gone high tech. It is now possible to ask questions or receive a general reading through email.

Although the in person readings have the advantage of the personal touch, the results of online readings are easier to keep and refer back to at future dates. In addition, by printing up the results, you can create a timeline that tracks your progress toward your goals as well as help you navigate through possible roadblocks. Although everyone has some level of psychic awareness, it always helpful to get a fresh perspective from an unbiased third person. Gifted readers show you how to find all your options and help you to find the best course of action; in doing so, they help you make decisions that are for your best and highest good. The reader is merely a guide to help you find you own path.

Theresa Chaze is a Wiccan Priestess who has twenty years experience reading Tarot. Using her natural born intuitive and empathic gifts, she helps her clients make informed decisions. Her gifts allow her to go beyond the cards to speak to your soul and your guides to get more detailed information. Through her maternal line, she is able to communicate with those who have crossed over; however, she does not guarantee that the dead will be available or willing to speak to the living. Another gift she received from her mother closeness with animals; she is especially intuitive with cats.

Ms. Chaze is available to do online Tarot Readings. Normally she does a double Celtic cross reading, which consist of eight cards plus an over all message card and a timing card. Any additional information she perceives is added, whether she understands it or not. In addition, any cards that jump out of the deck, wanting attention become part of the reading. This general reading gives the questioner whatever information they need the most at the time. She also does a five-card question spread, which focuses on one specific topic. The spread consists of two cards for the past, one for the present and the remaining two speak of the future. Although limited it is beneficial at times when specific information is required. Ms Chaze can be contacted through her site at www.theresachaze.com.

A Magical Fantasy Novel of Suspense, Horror and Real Wiccan Rituals
Dragon Domain--Book Two of the Dragon Clan Trilogy

My name is Cheyenne. As a toddler, my broken and dying body was tossed in the desert like yesterday’s trash. Under the blazing sun, my spirit started to drift away until a shadow suddenly blocked the burning orb. Celeste found me and brought me back. Before that moment nothing remained. I became the daughter the Goddess had not blessed her womb with; she became my mother, my mentor and friend. Together we wandered, drifting without roots to wherever the Goddess sent us. As I grew, she taught me the ways of the Earth until the Dragons came to claim me. Celeste was not pleased but she accepted my decision to follow the path of the Dragon Spirit.

Although I longed for a home, a special place of peace and tranquility, Celeste kept us moving. We used our psychic gifts to support ourselves; that is how we came to Coyote Springs. It was here the Goddess answered my prayers; she led me to a very special farm. I refused to leave. Reluctantly Celeste stayed. With our new friend, Jane we built a spiritual sanctuary. I finally found peace and safety among those who I though loved me.

We were happy until he came; an old love from Celeste‘s past appeared on our door. Rapidly the darkness of the night brought terror as sacrificial blood was shed. I tried to warn her. Celeste refused to listen. She let him in. He wanted to steal everything--my home, my property, my loved ones, and my life. No one was safe from his darkness. I called the dragons. The drove him back. But then they joined together in an old evil. Alone he was barely defeated, but now with Celeste’s help and knowledge of all our weakness, how could we possibly stop them from stealing our very souls?

The ebook version of Dragon Domain-Book Two of the Dragon Clan Trilogy can be bought at www.theresachaze.com along with its prequel Awakening the Dragon--Book One of the Dragon Clan Trilogy, an ebook of Shadows--Out of the Shadows and Into the light and the e-short, Dead Not Gone.

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Death is but a Dream
By
Theresa Chaze

All things that come
will eventually pass
Each soul is born to learn and grow
Teachers and students they walk into our lives
To give us unconditional love and heal old pains
Messengers of the Goddess they guide us to the higher road
Yet as all who are born they must cross the bridge
Only their bodies have returned to the earth
The memories dwell within our hearts
But their true essence lives on to be born again.
As we have loved them in our own special way
So we are tied soul to soul and heart to heart
For when it is our time they shall be there
To greet and again guide across the bridge
Into another time and place.
Where love is alive
And death is a dream,

Furred, feathered or scaled, they come into our lives as blessings only to leave voids in our lives and our souls when they cross over. It is an inevitable truth we all have to face eventually. The joy is followed by loss, but is it forever--no. The beautiful, loving souls that come into our lives are never really gone. As with us all, their spirits rise up to rejoin with their own souls so the lessons they learned can become part of the whole. It is the way of things.
In my life I have lost four. Each of the reminded in their worn out bodies until I was ready; it was a great gift. In return, I allowed their crossing to be painless and peaceful, arranging for them to be met with unconditional love and protection as they reach the other side. Merlin was the first; his illness came on quick. I never thought I would have the strength, but it was his soul that held me together. Sasha followed a couple of years later; cancer claimed her body but could not touch her soul. Pooky, the beautiful soul who taught me unconditional love, crossed over the end of the same year. Ralphie, Sasha’s littermate, stayed with me as long as he could, but his kidneys failed March, 2005. All remain in my heart and connected to my soul. Helping them cross over was the hardest thing I ever had to do, yet their love and strength gave me the ability to let go. I couldn’t allow them to be in pain any longer; instead I took the sadness on myself and their spirits were freed.
But what to do with the body that is now an empty shell. Most bury them. My father buried Ruffles, his favorite family dog, in the back yard and bought her a headstone with all her information to mark her grave. There are also pet cemeteries becoming available across the country, complete with caskets and religious ceremonies. Others release the bodies to discretion of the vet. All of mine were cremated and the remains are on one of my alters as tributes to the lives. Still others follow the Native American tradition of a ritual burning where the loved ones build a wooden structure on which the body is place; wood is piled high beneath the funeral pyre and set on fire. The wind fans the flames causing them to reach for the heavens and spread the ashes to the four winds. It is believed that the ashes so released become part of the earth and all upon it. Which ever way you deal with the remains should give you comfort and solace; funerals are for those that remain, not for those who have crossed over..
The body is gone, but their memory and souls remain. At first, there will only be sadness and tears. But then the special moments will creep back and a smile will return to your lips. Eventually only the good times will remain. The healing will take as long as you need to; there isn’t a schedule or set list to be checked off. Talking about you loved one will help the healing process. Keeping pictures and favorite belongings out will help you and others find a way to speak of them by remembering the good times. Many establish tributes and memorials. Some do it by setting up a memorial either online or by creating a special place. For mine, I planted special trees in their memory; it a living tribute to their lives and represents their souls, which have continued to live on. It can be done online by creating web sites with pictures and information. There are sites available such as Pets lost at http://www.petloss.com/namelsts.htm, which gives grieving parents the opportunity to tell others about the beauty of their fur-kid. On my site there is a new board available for tributes and memorials to your loved ones. The address is www.theresachazecom; it is on the second page. Others become involved with local animal rescue groups, donating their time, energy and resources to help animals in need. By helping others, you can actively make a difference in those who need it the most.
So what next? You cried and grieved until the tears wash away the pain so that only the joy and love remain. No matter how painful the loss, think how empty your life would have been without them in it. You would haven’t felt the pain, but you would have missed out on all the joy, love and fun they bought into you life. When you are ready, think about adopting another. There are so many out there who need good, loving homes and you never know what miracles can happen. A year after Sasha crossed over, another calico appeared in my yard; I don’t know where she came from. I brought her in and put her in the cat enclosure. She stayed there one night. The next day she found her way out and immediately ran upstairs and curled up in Sasha favor spot in the linen closet. Her path was direct; she knew where she was going. Several months ago two kittens appeared on my back porch. Oliver is just as determined and pushy as Pooky. Timmie has the same need to cuddle and lick my nose as Ralphie. They look and act the same as before only their bodies are new and healthy. If I had not opened my heart to them, I would have again lost old friends. Blessings come in unexpected places and different packages. Being open means being blessed.

Never Can Say Goodbye--a script excerpt


EXT: FOREST: EARLY AFTERNOON
Lynne and Elizabeth are walking down a path, which leads to a rapidly moving river.

ELIZABETH
It’s beautiful.

LYNNE
It’s the last ten acres of virgin forest for five hundred miles. The local Native Americans convinced the loggers that it was haunted.
(Pointing down river)
Another month, there’ll be color no artist could match.

ELIZABETH
Does anybody live here?

LYNNE
It’s state protected land. There are a few public hiking trails. The Bellow’s house is down the road and up the hill. From the front porch you can see the whole valley.

ELIZABETH
It’s amazing. I’ve never seen anything so beautiful.
(Walking down to the water’s edge)
It’s so peaceful.

She looks down river. A doe comes to drink from the river. The sun filters through the trees. A large crow flies over head, cawing. In the distance, she hears saws biting into the trees and the trees falling. The sounds becomes clearer, intermixing with men’s voices.

I thought you said this was protected land.

LYNNE
It is.

ELIZABETH
Someone’s cutting down trees. I can hear them
(The sounds become louder and she puts her hands over her ears)
We have to tell the rangers.

LYNNE
(Running to the river’s edge)
I don’t hear anything! Why are you shouting?

Freshly cut trees, stripped of their branches, start floating down the river. A few at first, then the surface is covered. Two men dressed in work clothes are balanced on wide bottomed, shallow boat. Each carried a long pole with a hook on the end, which they used to break up blocks in the river. Further up river, a similar boat followed. The men casually joked with one another.

ELIZABETH
(Pointing)
Do you seem them?

LYNNE
Who?

ELIZABETH
The men in the boat.

The second boat passes in front of her. One of the men is a teenage Randolph. The lumber sounds suddenly stop and the images vanish.

ELIZABETH
(Stunned)
It stopped.

LYNNE
What did you see?

ELIZABETH
There were trees in the river and men in boats.

LYNNE
(Shaking her head)
Has anything like this happened to you before?

ELIZABETH
I’m not crazy! It happened.

LYNNE
I believe you. Other people have seen it too.

ELIZABETH
Have you?

LYNNE
No. But I’ve seen other things. Come on. Michael’s waiting.

INT: HIDDEN BEDROOM: EARLY AFTERNOON
Michael is standing in the doorway. Sara Jane appears in the rocker. She hums while she mends a man’s shirt. She is very pregnant. He walks to the rocker and reaches out to touch her stomach. She looks up at him and smiles. A car is heard pulling up and parking on the outside of the house. .

EXT: OUTSIDE BELLOW’S HOUSE: EARLY AFTERNOON
Lynne and Elizabeth are getting out of the car. They pull cases out of the back seat and walk toward the house.

INT: HIDDEN BEDROOM: EARLY AFTERNOON
Michael turns away from the window. The room is now empty.

INT: FRONT ENTRANCE WAY: EARLY AFTERNOON
Michael opens the front door. Elizabeth and Lynne walk in, carrying the cases.

LYNNE
Sorry we’re late. I wanted to show Elizabeth the trails.

ELIZABETH
Your house is beautiful.

MICHAEL
I wish it were mine. We’re just renting.

ELIZABETH
It’s so big.

MICHAEL
The original house was half as big. The second Mrs. Bellows was responsible for the expansion.

LYNNE
Where’s the room? And when is Shane coming back?

MICHAEL
Upstairs down the main hall first door on the left. I haven’t had a chance to fix the wall yet. Late tonight. She has a gig, but I have to meet her there. I made a light lunch. Just in case you didn’t have time.

ELIZABETH
We ate before we drove out.

MICHAEL
We seemed to have gotten off to a bad start.

ELIZABETH
Whose fault is that?

LYNNE
(Walking toward the stairs)
Children when you decide to be grown ups again. I’ll be pstairs.

She walks upstairs, leaving them behind.

INT: HIDDEN BEDROOM: EARLY AFTERNOON
Lynne walks into the room and set the cases on the bed. She looks around the room, opening the drawers and the closet. She takes out one of the dresses and examines before returning it to the closet. She moves the clothes around. Behind them are several shelves with boxes stacked on them. She pulls one out and opens it. It is filled with letters and mementos. She puts it on the bed and takes out another. It is filled with homemade baby clothes. They are old, but appear to have never been used. She continues around the room, stopping at the window. The nails, which had secured the window, are still embedded. Their points are sticking out of the bottom. She examines the window; the ceil has been splintered.
Elizabeth and Michael are heard talking in the hallway; they are walking toward the room. She turns as they walk in.

LYNNE
Wouldn’t it have been easier to take out the nails first?

MICHAEL
I didn’t open it.

LYNNE
Who did?

MICHAEL
I don’t know.

ELIZABETH
(Slowly almost reluctantly walks in)
It’s a beautiful room.

LYNNE
Could Shane--

MICHAEL
She is afraid of the room.

LYNNE
Really? Why?

ELIZABETH
That’s silly. This was a room of love.

MICHAEL
She said there was a woman in here, who loves me and hates her.

LYNNE
(Sarcastic)
That’s new! Help me set up the equipment.

Elizabeth looks at herself in the mirror. Sitting in the chair, she picks up the hairbrush. Brushing her hair, she begins to hum quietly to herself the same tune from Michael’s dream.

I would’ve got better readings if I’d been here.

MICHAEL
I’m sorry. I couldn’t help myself. It was like I was possessed. It was all I could think about.

LYNNE
Did you find what you expected?

MICHAEL
Yes and No. It was smaller than I thought. It looked like I imagined.

LYNNE
And?

MICHAEL
I felt disappointed. I was expecting something--someone to be here. But there wasn’t anyone. The dreams started. Sara Jane was here.
(He walks to the rocker)
With her son. But that isn’t possible. The boy was a toddler. Sara Jane died giving birth to their only child. It’s so confusing. Audrey was trying to protect the boy--no, she was angry with him. The women argued. Randolph came in. He still loved Sara Jane. He was married to Audrey. He never loved her. He was going to kill himself to be with Sara Jane. But he couldn’t. Audrey was pregnant.

LYNNE
Why did he marry Audrey?

MICHAEL
He needed a wet nurse for his son. Audrey had given birth to her daughter just a month before. Her husband had been killed in a lumber accident. She wouldn’t move in unless he married her.

ELIZABETH
If he loved Sara Jane so much he wanted to die, how did Audrey come to be with child?

MICHAEL
I was weak.

LYNNE
I?

MICHAEL
Night after night, I lay in our bed missing you. I was alone--our bed was cold. She would come to me, smelling of your perfume. At first I pushed her away. But she was warm and willing. She kept coming back, telling me how much she loved me. I closed my eyes and it was you beside me. You I made love to.

LYNNE
Michael? Elizabeth?

ELIZABETH
How do you think I felt? Watching you in our bed. You wouldn’t let me leave. Why did you do that to me?

MICHAEL
I loved you.

LYNNE
That’s it--Everybody out!

She grabs Michael and pushes him out the door. Going back, she pulls Elizabeth from the chair; the hairbrush falls to the floor. Elizabeth tries to pick it up, but she is hustled from the room. Lynne stops and scans the room, before slamming the door shut.

INT: KITCHEN: AFTERNOON
Michael and Elizabeth sit at the table, eating. Lynne stands at the counter, staring at them.

ELIZABETH
All this is from your garden? It tastes wonderful.

MICHAEL
It always tastes better when you grow it yourself.

LYNNE
Yes. It’s wonderful. It’s also low calorie. Extra special. Everybody agree? Good. Now what the hell happened up there?

MICHAEL
More tea anyone?

LYNNE
No! Sit down!

ELIZABETH
I feel embarrassed.

LYNNE
Why?

ELIZABETH
I don’t know. Part of me didn’t want to go inside. I was afraid I would never be able to leave. Then I didn’t want to leave. It’s not like I thought about it. It’s just how I felt. I was afraid. But it also felt like coming home.
(To Michael)
I saw you. But it wasn’t you. You were someone else. I loved you--and hated you.

MICHAEL
I was finally getting the chance to explain. To make it right.

LYNNE
Make what right?

Off screen a car pulls up and parks. A single car door opens and closes.

Are you expecting anyone?

MICHAEL
I’ll go see who it is.

INT: FRONT ENTRANCE: AFTERNOON
Shane walks in.

SHANE
Mike! What is Lynne doing here?

INT: KITCHEN: AFTERNOON

LYNNE
You said she’d be gone all day!

MICHAEL
Stay here. Both of you. I’ll take care of it.

INT: IN THE HALLWAY AT THE FOOT OF THE STAIRS: AFTERNOON
Shane has gone part way up. Michael runs in.

MICHAEL
You said you were spending the afternoon with you mother..

SHANE
Why is she here?

MICHAEL
Calm down.

SHANE
Don’t tell me to calm down!

MICHAEL
I asked her to check out the hidden room.

SHANE
No doubt she’d have that adventure you wanted. At least you didn’t use our bed.

LYNNE
(Walking in)
Actually we were frolicking on the kitchen table. Miracle Whip isn’t only for sandwiches.

MICHAEL
Lynne, you’re not helping.

SHANE
You’re disgusting!

Zombie-like Elizabeth can be seen walking out of the kitchen.

MICHAEL
Go back in the kitchen.

SHANE
Slut!

LYNNE
Psycho!

MICHAEL
(To Lynne)
You’re not helping.

SHANE
Why are you doing this to me?

Unseen by the others, Elizabeth walks through the dining room, examining the room as she goes. Its appearance seems to confuse her.

You said you loved me.

MICHAEL
I do love you.

SHANE
Then why is she here?

MICHAEL
I wanted to find out about the room.

SHANE
The room. The house. Your work...everything but me!

Lynne notices Elizabeth and joins her in the dining room.

INT: DINING ROOM: AFTERNOON
Elizabeth is looking at the furnishings. Lynne walks up to her.

ELIZABETH
It’s all different.

LYNNE
What’s all different?

ELIZABETH
My house. Who are you? What are you doing in my house?

LYNNE
Elizabeth, what are you talking about?

ELIZABETH
Elizabeth? My name is Sara Jane. Sara Jane Bellows.

LYNNE
OHMYGOODNESS! I don’t have the right equipment for this. Shit!

ELIZABETH
(Calling out to Michael)
Randolph, what did you do to my house?

LYNNE
Sara Jane. Hi. I’m Lynne. Have you been in the house since you died?

ELIZABETH
I’m not dead.
SHANE
(Seeing Elizabeth)
You!

Michael tries to grab her, but she pushes past him and runs into the dining room.

He’s my husband!

MICHAEL
(Following)
Shane!

Lynne intercepts her and they struggle. Elizabeth meets Michael half way into the room.

ELIZABETH
I don’t understand. I waited for you. Why didn’t you come?

MICHAEL
I couldn’t find you.

SHANE
You can’t have him. He’s mine.

ELIZABETH
I know you! I know what you did.

SHANE
Shut up!

Shane shoves Lynne out of the way and lunges at Elizabeth, pushing her backward. Elizabeth hits her head on edge of the table and falls to the floor. Michael grabs Shane and pulls her away. Lynne checks Elizabeth.

MICHAEL
Is she okay?

LYNNE
No! She’s not okay. She’s unconscious!

SHANE
She deserved it!

MICHAEL
You don’t even know her!
(Shoving her away)
Shane, look what you’ve done!

SHANE
Love me. Not her.

LYNNE
We have to get her to the hospital.

SHANE
She was going to ruin everything!

LYNNE
Mike, fight with her later. Help me get her to my car.

MICHAEL
There’s an afghan on the couch.

Lynne runs out of the room.

SHANE
Mike, I did it for us.

MICHAEL
(Gently lifting Elizabeth)
Get out of my way!

SHANE
Mike, please you have to understand.

MICHAEL
Understand what?

SHANE
I can explain.

MICHAEL
(Carrying Elizabeth toward the door)
Stay here.

SHANE
Mike, please!

INT: ENTRANCE WAY: AFTERNOON
Lynne covers Elizabeth with the afghan and opens the door. Michael carries her out. Lynne hesitates at the threshold.

LYNNE
This time you’ll get what you deserve.

She slams the door.

INT: HOSPITAL WAITING ROOM: AFTERNOON
Lynne paces the room, occasionally looking down the hall. Michael sits in the chair, staring at the floor.

MICHAEL
I’ll take care of the bill.

LYNNE
I wish we could take it out of Shane’s hide.

MICHAEL
I’ve never seen her act like that. Could it have something to do with the room?

LYNNE
She was jealous before you moved into the house.

MICHAEL
She had a dream. The woman in the room wanted to hurt her.

LYNNE
Is Shane in that examination room?

MICHAEL
I just thought--

LYNNE
That’d find another way to excuse her. To make it not her fault or yours.

MICHAEL
It’s not my fault!

LYNNE
Isn’t it? What are you going to do if Elizabeth decides to press charges?

A nurse walks in.

NURSE
Your friend’s lucky. She doesn’t have a concussion. But she does have a nasty bump. She can go home. But she shouldn’t be alone for the next few hours.

LYNNE
She can spend the rest of the day and night at my house.

MICHAEL
Where do I pay the bill?

NURSE
At the cashier. She’ll be out in a few minutes.

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!




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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.