Book One : The Prophecy : V : Hiraeth

V

Hiraeth

23^rd November 1940

An invisible thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place and circumstance. The thread may stretch or tangle, but it will never break…

Ancient Chinese Proverb.

Galean awoke from his sleep tired and sore, this being his sixth night sleeping in a chair. As he allowed his eyelids to open slowly, he felt the blinding sun upon his face and squinted slightly. The room was quiet and undisturbed, a soft breeze swirling about gently and the sound of the morning birds filling his senses. Galean stretched his body and opened his eyes fully. Eveline’s bed was empty and the window open causing him to panic and bounce out of his chair, racing out of her room. As he ran down the corridor he heard music from below and stopped to listen. Closing his eyes ever so slightly he scanned his memory for a moment concluding that the piece was Beethoven’s piano concerto number 5, known as ‘Emperor’. His heart settled knowing that Eveline was downstairs in the music room, safe and out of harm’s way. With ease and relief Galean made his way downstairs, running his fingers through his thick hair.

“Galean!” a gentle voice rang out. Galean watched as Belle ran up the stairs, her arms outstretched. “You’re awake!”

“Good morning Belle,” Galean smiled taking the child up into his arms gently.

“Evie told us to let you sleep for as long as possible,” Belle admitted as they reached the bottom of the stairs. “Estelle has put away breakfast for you.”

“That’s very kind of her,” Galean smiled, turning his head slightly to steal a glance at Eveline, unable to find her as Belle now on her feet dragged him into the kitchen to where Estelle was sat by the table reading a paper.

“Mr Edwards’s good morning,” Estelle said with a smile, casting her eyes over the top of the daily paper. “You will find breakfast in the cupboard above the sink.”

“Good morning Estelle,” Galean returned making his way over to the cupboard, opening it to find a plate covered with paper. With his plate of food, Galean sat down beside Estelle and poured himself a cup of tea with Belle and Wordsworth by his side, watching him with eagerness. “I see Eveline is feeling better?”

“Much, she was up bright and early this morning packing for our journey tomorrow,” Estelle replied setting her paper down and taking a good look at Galean. “She and Belle are going to take Wordsworth for a walk soon so you may use that time in which to wash.”

“I will go with them if you do not mind?” Galean asked as he drained his cup quickly.

“Of course you may, it will probably be better for you to escort her until…well,” Estelle coloured faintly as the music stopped.

“I should like to go for a walk, it is a beautiful day,” Galean said with a warmness in his eyes. Estelle was still nervous and unsettled about the current situation and Eveline was somewhat oblivious to the truth of the matter.

“Good morning Mr Edwards,” came a soft and feminine voice from the doorway. Galean looked up from his cup and met Eveline’s direct gaze. He was taken aback by how bright and beautiful she appeared as though she had never been stung by the events of the last week. Her auburn curls were loosely pinned back and she wore a fine cream Victorian blouse and ivy green skirt that fell to her calves. Her eyes sparkled and her lips were finely tinted with what looked to be red lipstick which was striking against her fair skin.

“Good morning Eveline,” Galean replied quickly returning his gaze to his empty plate.

“Did I awaken you?” Eveline asked as she came to sit down opposite the guest.

“No you did not,” Galean murmured, slyly giving Wordsworth some ham under the table.

“Good, for you must be shattered, what with you being shackled to me this last week,” Eveline said with colour in her cheeks aware that the guest found it hard to make eye contact with her thus causing her to become nervous in case he too like many others found her odd and distracting.

“I am feeling better this morning thank you.”

“Right well, I am going to take Belle and Wordsworth for their walk now mother,” Eveline announced quietly.

“Mr Edwards will go with you Eveline, he is in need of a good walk,” Estelle exclaimed as she arose from the table alongside Galean and Eveline. “If you could spare him a little time in which to get washed and dressed?”

“Are you sure you wish to go for a walk and my mother has not blackmailed you into escorting me?” Eveline asked with teasing eyes. Galean looked across at the breezy and somehow transformed Eveline a mere shadow of the woman he had been attending too the last week, pale and withdrawn.

“I am keen on morning walks, so no Estelle has not persuaded me it is of my own free will that I share my walk with you.”

“Good, well we shall be out in the garden waiting for you,” Eveline said as she opened the back door of the cottage, bidding Wordsworth and Belle to follow suite. Galean quickly took his leave and made his way back upstairs where he spent the next half hour washing and arranging himself. As he buttoned his shirt up he stood by the window and looked down into the garden where Eveline, Belle and Wordsworth seemed to be entranced by a flower still in bloom so late into the year. It had been a record summer many likening it to an Indian summer so it did not strike Galean as entirely strange that some flowers should still be in bloom, for November proved to be balmy as well. He watched on now combing back his hair as Eveline stood beside the wall of the garden looking out across the county with pensive eyes a shadow falling over her face as she scanned the countryside. Without warning she suddenly turned her gaze, lifting it to meet his own for a mere second before turning away.

*

“Look Evie this rose is still alive!” Belle announced, bidding Eveline to come over to her at once. Eveline turned from the wall and glanced over at Belle who was now on her knees before a red rose, stroking its fine petals with her tiny fingers. Eveline came to her side and bent down also, taking another red rose in the tips of her fingers.

“It is called a damask climbing rose,” Eveline said gently, the sun upon her back as she lifted the rose to her nose and closed her eyes taking in the sweet smell. “Smell it.” Belle mirrored Eveline’s actions as Wordsworth sniffed the bush harshly with his wet nose. Upon the wall before them a robin sat and chirped.

“A robin!” Belle squealed.

“Don’t cry so or he will fly away!” Eveline laughed as she wound her arms about the child’s waist to keep her still. “Do you know what this means?” she asked Belle gently, whispering into her ear as they watched the robin hop about, transfixed by the enormous Irish wolfhound.

“What does it mean?” Belle asked turning her bright green eyes to Eveline, her cheeks rosy and plump.

“That winter has arrived,” Eveline said softly, wiping away one of Belle’s golden curls.

“Mama said the war would be over at Christmas, does that mean I will be leaving soon?” Belle asked with sad eyes. Eveline brought Belle closer to her, letting her little head fall upon her shoulder.

“I’m not sure the war will be over by Christmas little one but don’t worry so.”

“I miss mama and papa but I like it here, it’s not at all stuffy like London,” Belle whispered into Eveline’s auburn curls. “I’ve never seen roses and robins before.”

“I’m sure Estelle has some books on birds and flowers if you would like to have a look at them this evening with me?” Eveline replied as Belle pulled back from their embrace.

“Will that bad man be following us today?”

“No he is gone from these parts never to return,” Eveline lied as the back door opened and Galean strode out. For a brief moment Belle simply stared into Eveline’s eyes, her fingers stroking her cheek lightly before she bound away towards Galean who looked on at the tender moment with a pain in his heart.

“Galean!” Belle cried out running up to her new friend as Wordsworth barked loudly in excitement.

“Hush Wordsworth you silly dog!” Eveline laughed as she straightened herself fully, the robin flying away with a gentle chirp. Eveline stood and observed her husband’s friend, tall and handsome. A gentle rush swept over her causing her to blush slightly, turning away from the now well dressed guest.

“Shall we?” Galean opened the garden door that led out onto the field of long grass.

“Yes, thank you,” Eveline murmured walking before Galean with Wordsworth at her heel. All about her the world was filled with light and music. As she softly made her way down the slope of the hill towards the lake she let herself bask in the sunlight, pushing away the minute feeling that had crept up on her as she gazed upon Mr Edwards. She longed for her husband in that moment as the branches of the fir trees swayed, a light rustle of the fallen leaves swirling about her. Behind her she could hear Belle and Galean conversing pleasantly with Belle pulling at his arm so that they caught up with the withdrawn Eveline.

“Can we go to the lake?” Belle asked, her face turning upwards so that her eyes found Eveline’s.

“Of course,” Eveline said with a faint smile. Belle let go of Galean’s hand and ran away down the slope with Wordsworth for protection, her golden curls bouncing in the winter light. Eveline and Galean walked on in companionable silence.

“It has come to my attention Mr Edwards that I don’t know that much about you,” Eveline said after several minutes of unwavering silence.

“You haven’t asked,” Galean replied matter of factly. “And you may call me Galean if you please.”

“Alright,” Eveline smiled, lowering her eyes to the ground, soft and filled with autumnal colours of the fading leaves. “How is it that you know my husband?”

“We are both pilots in the RAF,” Galean lied, his body sighing in response.

“And why have you come to Keswick to bring us to Bath?”

“Theodore had been injured,” at these words Eveline stopped and turned to Theodore abruptly.

“But you did not say,” she said with accusing eyes.

“He did not want me to say,” Galean replied firmly, his feet also stopping. “His injuries were not serious and he is well now.”

“Why ever did he not write to tell me,” Eveline said out loud, for despite Galean’s answers his being here still did not make sense and she found herself becoming suspicious considering all that had passed the last two weeks.

“He did not wish to worry you and so sent me to escort you and your family to Bath.”

Eveline did not answer she merely walked on in silence, observing a black bird hopping under a fir tree. Galean followed her, seeing the confusion on her face, she was clearly plagued by a sudden thought that brought her misery.

“May I be frank with you Mr…Galean?” Eveline asked, stopping in her tracks under a heavy branch.

“Yes.”

“All is not what it seems and I believe you are a part of that equation.”

“How so?” Galean asked, his eyes on Belle who was now at the edge of the lake bent down with her hands in the water. Eveline clasped the thick branch with her left hand and let her eyes cast their gaze upon the lake.

“Tell me Galean did you see what happened to me on that night?”

“Did you want me to see?”

“Mr Edwards I need you be honest with me, please,” Eveline said quickly, biting down on her lip.

“Forgive me,” Galean replied as he came to stand before Eveline, close enough to look into her eyes and yet not so close as to inappropriate. “I did bear witness to what happened.”

“You saw the man?” Eveline asked quietly, watching Belle throw a stick out onto the water, Wordsworth bounding into the lake with enthusiasm and glee.

“I did,” Galean replied, his voice deep and assuring. “Did you know him?”

“You ask me if I knew him and ask me not how I came to be hovering in mid-air?” Eveline smiled nervously. “Surely you must think me mad, what with my golden eyes and un natural state of being. Do I not frighten you Mr Edwards?”

“If I were to say that what I saw does not frighten me would you not think me mad?” Galean quizzed, wondering what thoughts were running through her mind as she turned that golden stare upon him, winding him slightly, the intensity and determination behind those vivid eyes.

“Yes, I would either think you mad or alike me in ways others are not,” Eveline whispered, her voice weak, betraying her firm gaze. “Many here believe me to be a witch.”

“How very medieval of them,” Galean smiled warmly.

“I would share in your teasing Mr Edwards but for the truth in their observations,” Eveline said with a serious voice. Galean watched as her finger tips seemed to be moving as though she were playing the piano. Eveline caught his gaze and stopped.

“What are you trying to tell me Eveline?”

“What are you trying to tell me Galean?”

The pair stood still, waiting until one of them dared to answer.

“That maybe there are those that can see and do things that others may find un natural,” Galean said with a kind voice, his eyes warm and understanding. “That maybe your husband and I are not so unalike.”

“Then you know that my husband shares in my unnatural state?”

“It would seem that we all have that in common,” Galean replied looking sombre.

“You have certain abilities that others do not?” Eveline asked with curious eyes.

“I do. What about you Eveline?” Galean said stepping closer to Eveline, the soft rush of wind causing his locks of blonde hair to dance around his face. Eveline looked up into his blue eyes and sighed gently.

“You know I do Mr Edwards,” she whispered turning away from him, her heart thudding violently for an unknown reason.

“Do you know why that man wished you harm Eveline?”

“No,” Eveline sighed, unclasping the branch and walking away. “He said things to me that…”

“He said what Eveline?” Galean enquired coming to her side quickly not wanting her to end the conversation, needing to know what Lagar had digested to her.

“Nothing of consequence,” Eveline lied, brushing an auburn lock away from her lips.

“Everything is of consequence,” Galean murmured. “Do you believe in demons Eveline? Creatures of the dark?”

“Do you?” Eveline spun round, the hem of skirt touching his tweed trousers. She held her right hand over her brows, to shield her eyes from the burning rays of the sun.

“I am a creature of light Eveline as are you and Theodore, so yes I do,” Galean said quietly hearing Belle’s squeals of excitement in the near distance as Wordsworth bounding up and down the shore, his coat dripping with water, his mouth filled with a thick stick.

“Why are you really here Galean? Truthfully?”

“Theodore sent me to bring you to Bath, which is the truth.”

“Do you know of the man that wished me harm?”

“I do,” Galean admitted unable to lie any further for Eveline was clearly confused and was filled with internal struggle, trying to figure out why she was the focus of such hatred.

“Who was he?”

“You would not believe me if I answered you honestly,” Galean said with a shake of his head.

“If you are a creature of light as you claim yourself to be, then are you telling me that you are something akin to an angel?” Eveline quizzed as they came to stand before the rippling waters of Derwentwater. Before Galean could reply, Wordsworth came bounding up to him, stopping before him to shake out his coat. “Wordsworth you rogue!” Eveline cried out as Galean stepped away quickly, laughing merrily.

“He’s fine!” Galean pleaded as Eveline shoed the dog away by throwing a stick into the lake.

“I’m so sorry, he’s ruined your good jacket!” Eveline said nervously as she took out a handkerchief from her pocket and began to wipe away at the water stains. Galean looked down at her long eyelashes as they fluttered under the sunlight.

“Really Eveline I am quite alright, the stains will dry in the heat,” Galean soothed taking her wrists and setting her away from him least he should suddenly bolt and run away never to return. Eveline blushed heavily before placing her handkerchief away.

“Sorry,” she said sombrely.

“You have nothing to apologise for,” Galean smiled kindly. “Come sit down on the log,” he ordered gently bringing her to a thick log that lay near to the lake, sitting her down before taking a seat beside her.

“I seem to be doing everything in a miss-matched way,” Eveline said through gritted teeth, her heart settling and her chest now rising and falling gently.

“I think you have had a particularly hard time of it lately,” Galean replied as he took off his jacket and lay it across his knees. “I’m sure a lot of it is to do with missing Theodore.”

“I do miss him terribly,” Eveline admitted, entwining her hands upon her knees. “But sometimes I find myself not thinking of him at all I am so busy with Belle.”

“There is no fault in that, life goes on and we cannot stay still forever.”

“And so many peculiar things have been happening of late that I find myself not thinking of my heart at all.”

“He would not want you to be sitting around idly pinning for him,” Galean smiled reassuringly.

“At first when he left I was stricken with grief, losing my best friend and not knowing if he would return to me,” Eveline began as Belle and Wordsworth came to sit on the ground before them, playing with stones. “But then I found myself coming round and gently settling back into my normal life once again only with the added bonus of Belle, who has been such a blessing from the very start.”

“I can see she has brought you a lot of joy in the last year,” Galean observed as the little girl looked up at him with a beaming smile.

“She has and for a good time no shadows could creep into my soul,” Eveline said with a serious look in her eyes. “I felt freer than ever I have done. I was not bound by my peculiarities.”

“But you feel the heaviness of who you are now?”

“Yes very much so.”

“And if I may be as bold as to add confused to the list of your burdens?” Galean said with sombre eyes.

“Indeed, very, very confused Mr Edwards. I have always been stuck in a state of confusion as to why I am the way I am, never finding answers only ridicule from those that see me as a superstitious threat.”

“Not everybody sees you as a threat Eveline.”

“That man whoever he was obviously does,” Eveline said flatly her eyes darkening at the memory. Galean watched as she unconsciously searched for a spot upon her throat and held her fingers over what looked to be a mark. Galean took a closer look as her auburns tresses fritted in the light wind. The mark looked to be a bite mark and worse still the veins surrounding the mark were black.

“How did you hurt you neck?” Galean asked edging himself closer to Eveline to get a better look. Eveline feeling his gaze upon her throat quickly withdrew her fingers and brushed a curl over the mark, her cheeks colouring.

“I didn’t,” she lied keeping her eyes upon the water.

“Eveline have you looked at your neck recently?” Galean said firmly, wiping her auburn curl away and taking a closer look at the mark. “This is no normal cut, how did you receive it?”

“Please,” Eveline got up from the trunk, the touch of his fingers upon her skin too much. “It is nothing to worry about I promise.”

“Nothing to worry about,” Galean followed suite and got up from the trunk taking her wrist gently and turning her so that she faced him. “Look at me Eveline.”

“It is nothing Mr Edwards,” Eveline said sharply, untangling her wrist from Galean’s grasp and walking away. Galean watched as she chased after Belle, completing transformed and unabashed. Galean drew in a deep breathe, he would have to watch her carefully over the next few days. Finally the group made their way back up to the cottage stopping before the garden gate.

“Evie why are those people standing in front of our house?” Belle asked, fear in her eyes as she wrapped her arms about Eveline’s legs. Eveline looked to Galean, whose eyes were scanning the wider area, resting upon a group of a dozen or so shadows that lay at the edge of the forest, standing very still under the shadow of the trees watching them. Galean then looked at the six or so men and women, dressed in normal attired, standing by the front of the cottage.

“Take Belle and Wordsworth inside and lock the doors,” Galean ordered, his eyes falling to Eveline’s.

“Who are they Galean?” Eveline asked clearly frightened, her face pale and her eyes wide with terror.

“Take them inside and whatever you do, do not open the door until I knock, promise?” Galean guided the trio to the garden gate and opened it. When the gate had closed Eveline turned to him.

“Promise.”

“Go,” Galean ordered quickly waiting until they entered the house to walk around to the front.

*

Estelle cursed under her breathe as she rushed to finish the packing as Eveline sat quietly before the fire place, silent and still.

“Mother stop rushing about and sit down a moment,” Eveline announced, needing the room to stay peaceful and quiet as the adrenaline in her body made her feel weak and dizzy. Estelle stopped what it was she was doing and looked at her daughter so different from the Eveline she had watched leave the cottage earlier in the morning. Belle was sat in the music room, her face moulded to the window with Wordsworth by her side watching Galean talk to a man that looked very similar to the local reverend, Matthew Tinsley.

“Belle come away from that window at once!” Estelle ordered sharply. Belle sighed and withdrew from the window, coming into the living room with an equally disappointed Wordsworth who fell before the fire with a deep grunt.

“Who are those people Estelle?” Belle asked as she came to sit upon Eveline’s knees.

“Well one of them happens to be reverend Matthew Tinsley,” Estelle answered as she stood before the window looking out at Galean who was conversing deeply with the reverend. “I see the local librarian Mr Grey and the pharmacist Mrs Brown, the others I think are the local butcher Mr Geoffrey’s and Mr Bellendale from the farm next to our cottage.”

“What are they doing here?” Belle went on, twisting her fingers with nerves.

“I wish I knew,” Estelle sighed deeply noticing that Galean was looking at her seriously. Estelle withdrew from the window and came to stand before Eveline. “Tell me how many of those men are hiding among the trees?”

“A dozen or so,” Eveline whispered holding Belle close.

“Blast!” Estelle said under her breathe.

“Mother sit down before I get exasperated!” Eveline suddenly announced, shocking everyone in the room and causing Wordsworth to stand up and bark loudly. “Wordsworth sit!”

“Sorry,” Estelle said, forcing herself to sit down opposite Eveline and Belle. Time seemed to pass slowly as they awaited Galean’s return, so much so that when he eventually knocked at the door they all were startled beyond reason. Estelle rose from her chair and made for the door looking through the small, glass stained window before opening the door. “Ah Galean and reverend Matthew, come in and do explain to us what exactly is taking place outside.” Galean let the reverend pass him by before entering the cottage. The reverend came to stand before the unlit fire, smiling down at Eveline kindly. “Shall I make us some tea?” Estelle announced as she closed the door of the cottage behind her.

“That would be lovely,” the reverend replied as Galean brought forth two seats from the window, bidding the reverend to take a seat. “Ah Wordsworth you old fellow! How content you look.” Wordsworth grunted in reply, one ear standing up in response. Eveline kept herself quiet, looking over at Galean quickly. Galean smiled in return easing her tension at once. Soon Estelle re-entered with a tray filled with cups and large pot of brewing tea. Everybody spent the next five minutes filling their glasses with tea.

“Belle you will find a glass of juice in the kitchen with some biscuits, why don’t you take Wordsworth with you,” Estelle ordered Belle gently before turning to Galean. “She will be safe in the kitchen yes?”

“Don’t worry Estelle the reverend Matthew has men stationed behind the cottage, Belle will be fine.”

“Oh, well that’s good,” Estelle muttered before sitting down, waving Belle and the Irish wolfhound out of the room. When eventually Belle has left the room, everyone set their cups of tea down. “Now reverend would you care to explain why you have men and women stationed around my cottage.”

“Ah yes,” the reverend smiled, his eyes on Eveline. “We have been watching over you since your arrival in Keswick child.”

“Why?” Eveline returned flatly as the room grew darker, every pair of eyes on her.

“Have you heard of the free masons?” the reverend asked Eveline.

“Yes but what do you have to do with them?” Eveline asked, her chest rising and falling rapidly.

“I am the masonic leader in Keswick, elected to oversee the guardianship of you,” the reverend replied seriously.

“I don’t understand,” Eveline said, her eyes finding Galean’s, pleading and confused.

“Maybe Mr Edwards can explain a little better,” the reverend said casually, turning his gaze to Galean. Galean moved his seat a little closer to Eveline’s.

“When we spoke by the lake I told you that I was a creature of the light and you asked me if I was an angel.”

“Yes.”

“I am an angel Eveline and so is your husband,” Galean said calmly seeing the confusion in Eveline’s eyes. “I was sent here to protect you and bring you to Bath were you will be safe from the shadows that linger now outside this cottage, wishing you great harm.”

“I don’t understand, why do they wish me harm?” Eveline whispered to Galean, her eyes never leaving his own.

“You told me that you feel unnatural and different and you would be correct in thinking that for you are unalike those who surround you,” Galean explained gently, laying a hand upon her own. “There are many like me in this world, the reverend being one. But there are none like you in this world Eveline.”

“I am not a creature of the light?” Eveline asked, her brows furrowed in a deep crease.

“You are a creature of the light, a light so deep and bright that it can only belong to a few,” Galean smiled. “And though I am bound by oath not to reveal to you your true identity I can tell you that you have been right in thinking that you do not belong to this world.”

“Then where do I belong Mr Edwards?” Eveline asked, her voice shaking with anxiety.

“I wish that I could be the one to tell you, but it is not my place,” Galean said with saddened eyes, wanting inside to reach out to Eveline and comfort her in this her moment of darkness.

“Does Theodore know this?”

“Yes.”

“He has always known this about me?” Eveline asked, turning her eyes to Estelle.

“I shall let Theodore explain himself to you,” Galean said gently. “You need to know that you are in danger of a force graver to you than you realise. Those men that stand along the edge of the forest they are known to us as shadows and to humans as demons.”

“What do they want from me?” Eveline whispered, her eyes filled with doom and despair.

“They want to vanquish the light that lives within you, they want to destroy all that you are but for the present they wish to take you to their master,” Galean said seriously.

“Who is?”

“Their King and commander, known to you as Lucifer and known to us as Lagar.”

Eveline sat back and looked across at her mother, wanting to enfold herself in her arms for comfort.

“I have always felt unconnected to this world as though I belonged to another, now that you have revealed all of this to me I don’t feel quite as stupid,” she sighed. “I am however confused still as to who I am and why it is that these shadows wish me dead.”

“When you arrive in Bath you will be met by one of our superior commanders who will reveal to you everything that you need to know,” Galean said warmly, his hand still upon her own for assurance. “But we must leave this cottage and Keswick at once.”

“I cannot believe that we have a masonic group in Keswick,” Estelle announced.

“We are a secretive society Estelle for needs of protection,” the reverend replied as he took another sip of tea from his cup. “We have always been keeping an eye out for Eveline, ensuring her safety here in Keswick. When the local taxi driver Mr Cavil dropped Galean off and witnessed what occurred that night, he came to me at once and I knew then that the masons of Keswick had to act at once in ensuring you the safety you needed until you could leave Keswick.” Eveline looked to Galean again and found his face warm and comforting.

“We are scheduled to leave in the morning reverend,” Estelle said, alarm in her eyes.

“That will not do, you must leave tonight,” the reverend said with serious eyes. “There will be no room for argument. I and those within the free mason lodge will secure your passage to the train which has been specially scheduled to leave this night at ten. Do not worry about a thing Estelle we have booked you into the grand hotel in Bristol for two nights.”

“And I have phoned Theodore and arranged for him to meet us at the grand hotel in three days’ time,” Galean announced to the shock of Eveline and Estelle.

“Theodore will be in Bristol?” Eveline whispered, her heart skipping a beat.

“Yes,” Galean said with warm eyes. Eveline looked down at her hands, covered by Galean’s and took in a deep breathe, something within her wanted to stay in Keswick, she could not for some unknown and intangible reason understand why she yearned to hide away from her husband. “Eveline?”

“Yes?” Eveline looked up from her hands.

“You will need to get yourself ready,” Galean said firmly releasing his hand from her own and standing up. “Come.” Galean held out his hand for her waiting until she clasped it and arose to her feet. “Wear something dark, we must be invisible to the naked eye if we are to get to the station without any trouble occurring along the way.”

“Two cars will arrive, one at the front and one at the back to create a diversion,” the reverend explained carefully as Eveline stood before the window gazing out across the hill towards the edge of the forest were men stood in dark cloaks, watching on. Eveline felt a tremor arise under her bite and raised her fingers to the mark, feeling a pain run through her, unaware of Galean’s eyes upon her. “The train will have guards within to ensure your safety to Bristol.”

“Why has the devil himself waged war upon me,” Eveline said aloud, turning to the group.

“He has waged war on all that is good and true in this universe Eveline,” Galean replied thoughtfully. “And you stand for all that is good and true.”

“I am one woman.”

“You are more than a woman Eveline, this you know to be true,” Estelle said coming to her daughter and enfolding her in a hug. “You always have been. Who else can make the leaves of the ground dance about in the air so beautifully?”

Galean showed the reverend out of the cottage and closed the door behind him.

“We should ready ourselves,” he announced quietly his eyes upon Estelle and Eveline still enfolded in an embrace.

*

“We should keep the house alight and alive, shadows have problems seeing in the light,” Galean said as Estelle blew out a candle after dinner.

“If you say so,” Estelle smiled nervously. The house was quiet after the hours of preparation. Belle had been taken up to bed for a few hours of sleep before they left the cottage for good. Galean turned to were the sound of the piano lingered and followed the music, finding Eveline at the beautiful piano, her back straight and her hair loose, falling to her waist. He had wanted to spend some time with her before the left, to train her to use a dagger for self-defence. Instead he found himself sitting down beside her and watching her long fingers dance upon the ivory keys with fascination. Eveline stopped playing and turned to him.

“Have you ever played a duet before?” Eveline asked Galean, the candles flickering against the cream walls.

“Only once before,” Galean replied, letting his fingers touch the ivory keys.

“Do you know how to play Franz Schubert’s Fantasy in F minor?” Eveline asked quietly.

“Not very well but I could try if you wish?”

“I will probably not have time or the access to play the piano in the near future so I see it as only right that I spend an hour or so playing my favourite tunes,” Eveline smiled shyly as they both prepared themselves.

“It is quite a long piece,” Galean teased as he bent his fingers before splaying them over the keys.

“Well all the better then,” Eveline ended. With a countdown they began to play, each losing themselves in the music. Unknown to Galean, Eveline had opened a window so that the music would travel, bringing joy to those who stood outside protecting her and infuriating those who awaited her in the woods. Estelle came to stand in the doorway watching the pair with curious eyes. They had an unspoken bond which had enlivened Eveline and brought her unforeseen comfort. She was not sure how appropriate such a friendship like this was or how it would affect her son, but she trusted Eveline and understood her new found happiness in Galean’s friendship for it had been a long time since she had befriended anyone of her own age. When the piece of music had finally ended and Estelle had left the pair alone, Galean turned to Eveline.

“I wish to show you something,” he said getting up from the piano stool. Eveline watched as he closed the windows, curtains and the music door.

“What is it?” Eveline asked as she rose from the seat and stood in the centre of the room. Galean opened his jacket and procured from it two long, silver daggers, beautifully set with emeralds at the hilt. They looked akin to katar dagger often found in India. Eveline stepped forward and lifted one of the daggers from Galean’s hand and held it up to the light, the emeralds sparkling.

“They are special daggers that we angels use when defending ourselves against shadows,” Galean explained as he watched Eveline’s face, filled with intrigue and curiosity.

“I don’t know how to use a dagger,” she said, her eyes falling to him.

“Well I thought I could show you before we leave.”

“If you are sure,” Eveline said turning the blade in her hand.

“Well I think it necessary that you are able to fight shadows not just with your gifts but with weapons as well for they are greatly trained in the dark arts and for all your abilities you need someone who will help you to harness them, making you their equal,” Galean said, his mind bringing up an image of Anvin, the high priest of the Meer who was greatly endowed with magic, he would be the best mentor for Eveline if ever she returned to Unas.

“I understand,” Eveline said quietly.

“Come and stand in front of me,” Galean ordered, taking off his jacket and resting it by the window seat. Eveline came to stand before him. “The art of self-defence with particular reference to knife fighting is made up of three factors; intelligence, balance and precision. You must always evaluate your attacker and if we are talking about shadows then you should be aware that they are incredibly strong and resilient.”

“I’m doomed then,” Eveline smiled, her eyes sparkling.

“Not necessarily,” Galean replied with a light smile upon his lips. “Now always make sure to grip your dagger or knife properly like this,” Galean gripped the hilt of his dagger with his fingers wrapped completely around it with blade facing away from him, pointing up to the ceiling. Eveline followed suite. “Now you can also do this,” Galean then turned the blade upside down, pointing it to the ground. “Always keep your body behind the knife and bring your shoulders and head in, flexing your knife at a 45 degree angle like so.” Galean showed Eveline, bending his head and shoulders downwards. “Now your other arm should fall over your chest for protection like this,” Galean went on to demonstrate bidding Eveline to do the same. “Do you happen to like dancing?”

“Dancing?” Eveline laughed feeling silly and vulnerable against the strong and lean Galean.

“Yes dancing?” Galean quipped his brows awaiting her answer.

“I suppose I do.”

“Good, now when faced with an attacker it is vital that you keep moving, I call this the blade waltz,” Galean smiled as he began to move about quickly. “You must always outsmart your opponent.”

“Alright,” Eveline replied as she moved about getting used to the blade in her hand.

“You want the blade to become a distraction,” Galean went on. “When they have their eyes on the knife you can use your legs as a means of kicking them and ultimately flooring them.”

“I doubt I could do that Mr Edwards,” Eveline smiled as she came to a stop, her chest heaving in a deep breathe.

“With practice you can,” Galean said quickly. “Now disarming your opponent may prove hard in your case, but that’s why I will be sticking to you like glue until you finally are re united with Theodore.” Eveline didn’t reply. “A good way of disarming your opponent is by striking them with a blow. If you would come here please…, that’s it.” Eveline came to stand before Galean. “Remember you have a free arm in which to use but also remember the hilt of your blade which can prove devastingly useful in a fight, especially when used as blow to the head.”

“Mr Edwards I am no ninja or samurai,” Eveline complained.

“I know.” Galean quickly clasped her right hand wrist in which she carried the blade and softly struck a blow to her abdomen with the hilt of his blade. Without thinking Eveline stood on his foot hard and forced him backwards quickly picking up her blade and falling on top of him, the tip of the dagger at his throat, her eyes wild with intent. “You just said you were no ninja or samurai Mrs Sampson!” At the mention of her marital name, Eveline rolled off Theodore and stood up, straightening her skirt. Galean rolled onto his side before getting up to stand before her.

“Eveline?”

“No one has ever called me by my marital name before,” Eveline admitted handing the blade to Galean.

“No keep it, it’s yours,” Galean said softly, seeing the distress in her eyes.

“Where will I put it?” Eveline asked sheepishly looking down at her waist.

“I have a sheath you can place it in,” Galean replied walking to his jacket, his chest falling and rising quickly. From the jacket he retrieved a leather sheath and handed it to Eveline. “Here place it in this and keep it in your pocket, preferably in your jacket.”

“Thank you,” Eveline said with shy eyes.

“No need to thank me, Theodore asked that I prepare you in some way,” Galean lied as he put on his jacket and opened the door of the music room. Eveline exited the room and made for the stairs, ascending the steps and making for her room, leaving Galean behind. Once in her room she closed the door tightly and fell upon the sheets of her bed sighing. For a long while she simply lay and tried to conjure a picture of Theodore. Slowly she lifted her left hand and touched the gold band around her forth finger finding comfort in its coolness. After an hour of lying facing the ceiling, Eveline got up and made for her dressing table sitting down in front of the circular mirror and lighting her candles with a wave of her hand. As she sat pensively before the mirror she gently swept away her thick hair to reveal the bite mark upon her throat. The mark had grown and the veins around it had darkened as well. A surge of anxiety swept over her consuming her bones with a sickness that caused her to tremble. Nervously she touched the bite and bit down on her lip, the pain soaring through her like a thunderbolt of lightning. Quickly she dropped her fingers and bent her head into her palms, fighting back the urge to cry. When eventually she found courage within herself she took in a deep breath and drew her head up, staring into her eyes deeply. As she stared she noticed something odd occur, her golden gaze darkened slightly. Eveline sat forward so much so that the point of her nose touched the mirror. She gazed into her eyes waiting for them to reverse and go back to her normal colour but they did not. All at once an image of Lagar appeared behind her, hidden in the corner causing her to freeze. With the hairs on her skin upright and goose bumps prickling under her clothes she began to tremble. The flickering lights of the candles died as a cold rush of air filled the room. Eveline raised her eyes to the reflection in her mirror and found that the creature had gone, leaving the room prey to the darkness that consumed it.

With trembling lips, Eveline re lit the candles and stood up. With cautious steps she made her way over to the window and stood, her gaze falling to the countryside before her. Upon the dark land in the near distance she could see the silhouettes of the shadows, waiting patiently in the darkness. Eveline stood and stared at them, her golden gaze now dimed by the darkness that touched her irises.  A knock at the door brought Eveline to life.

“Yes?” she spoke aloud, quickly rushing to her dressing table and sitting down once more.

“It’s only me,” Estelle said as she entered the room with a smile on her lips.

“Is something wrong mother?”

“No I just wanted to see how you are,” Estelle bent her head and laid a soft kiss upon her daughters head before sitting down upon the edge of her bed. “A lot has happened in the last two weeks which makes me as your mother incredibly worried about your well-being.”

“I’m fine honestly,” Eveline lied, her lips not quite rising to meet her eyes as she smiled.

“Then why do your eyes betray you?”

“Do they? I hadn’t noticed,” Eveline retorted as she began to pin her hair back.

“Eveline I would have thought that I had your trust,” Estelle said with great sadness.

“And you do mother,” Eveline replied, turning slightly in her chair to face her mother.

“You have struck up quite a friendship with Mr Edwards.”

“How could I not,” Eveline shrugged. “We all have mother, there is nothing out of the ordinary with our friendship. I assure you.” Estelle held her daughters gaze for a moment.

“How do you feel about seeing Theodore?”

“I am nervous and excited to see my husband,” Eveline said with warmth attached to her tone.

“So am I,” Estelle smiled kindly. “It has been so long this damned war.”

“War is always long from the moment it begins.”

“How do you feel about all that has been said through conversation today? Are you frightened or disturbed?”

“Yes I am both, but with you, Belle and Galean at my side then I feel all the stronger for it.”

“I will always be at your side,” Estelle said gently.

“You always have been mother.”

“We are leaving in twenty minutes, everyone is downstairs waiting. Shall I give you five minutes?”

“Please,” Eveline smiled as her mother rose from the end of her bed and made for the door, turning to glance at her daughter.

“Everything will come to right soon.”

“I hope so,” Eveline whispered as her mother slipped out of the room leaving her alone once more to place some powder upon her bite mark. When ready she left her room behind with a sigh and made her way downstairs where she collected her coat, scarf, hat and gloves from Estelle. Galean was standing by the lit fire, his face serious and pensive. Beside him stood the reverend, clad in a long coat and hat.

“We will take the car at the back,” the reverend said aloud as Estelle fixed Belle and placed a lead on Wordsworth. “If you will all follow me.”

Quietly Estelle led the way after the reverend bringing Belle and Wordsworth. Eveline followed alongside Galean who was quiet.

“Mr Edwards are you alright?” Eveline asked as they stepped out into the darkness, walking down the garden path towards the reverends car.

“I am very well Eveline just keeping an ear out for anything suspicious.”

“Oh.”

The reverend helped Eveline into the car before closing the door and jumping into the driver’s seat with Galean beside him in the passenger’s seat, his eyes scanning the surrounding area. The air in the car was tight as everyone was tense with fear and anticipation. Belle clung to Eveline and Wordsworth lay his head upon Estelle’s lap as the car roared into life and began the cautious journey into Keswick. Behind them another car roared into life and Eveline looked behind her, the car’s headlights hurting her eyes.

“Don’t worry they are allies not foes,” the reverend smiled in the rear window, calming Eveline’s nerves. Eveline let out a sigh, allowing her head to fall backwards against the leather. She felt Belle’s body tremble and held her close as they drove through the countryside at quite some speed. Nothing out of the ordinary occurred on their journey and when they eventually made it to Keswick everyone sighed with relief. Galean turned to make sure Eveline and Belle were alright and was met with a brief nod of the head before he turned back again. Eveline kept her free hand upon the dagger that had been bestowed upon her earlier in the evening. Soon they found themselves before the station.

“Stay in the car for a minute whilst we make sure the station is safe,” Galean ordered as he and the reverend left the car and those within the car alone and vulnerable. The night was dark and the air cold and as those within the car sat in pensive silence, Galean, the reverend a few other masonic members searched the station. Eveline watched as they disappeared from sight and instantly began to search the area.

“I’m scared,” Belle whispered into Eveline’s arm.

“Don’t be scared Belle, I’m here.”

“It’s so dark.”

“Remember what I said about the night sky?” Eveline soothed. Belle looked up from Eveline’s arm.

“That our eyes are never drawn to its darkness but the light of the stars.”

“Look to the stars when you are afraid Belle and never doubt their light,” Eveline whispered as Estelle looked on. Belle laid her head down upon Eveline’s arm once more. Eveline let her gaze rise seeking the stars in the sky. She rested her golden gaze upon two very prominent stars that lay side by side and felt her heart warm. A knock on the door made everyone gasp.

“Come its safe,” Galean announced as he opened Estelle’s door. Wordsworth jumped out with ease and awaited Estelle to join him.

“Is the train ready?” Estelle asked quickly, still afraid of the quietness that surrounded the group.

“Yes, follow the reverend, he will show to your carriage.”

Estelle walked away with Wordsworth, meeting the reverend at the door of the station. Galean helped Belle out of the car and scooped her up into his arms.

“Still scared?” he asked gently.

“I’m better now you’re here,” came her soft reply. Eveline appeared from the car with a faint smile.

“Such a struggle to get to the station,” she teased as two masonic men emptied the boot of the car of the luggage bringing it to the train.

“It will be over soon,” Galean promised as he followed Eveline to the doors of the station. Suddenly he stopped in his tracks and turned slowly. “Eveline take Belle and get to the train now,” he whispered darkly, handing Belle over to Eveline who was trembling. “Go!” he ordered loudly as two shadows appeared, running fiercely towards with the blades of fire. Eveline turned and hurried to the station as other masonic men and women ran to help Galean who now was amongst a group of three shadows. Quickly Eveline entered the station with a crying Belle and ran to the reverend.

“Quick Eveline!” he cried out hurrying her to the platform. As he opened the door he found two shadows awaiting them and quickly shut it. “Okay different plan,” he said aloud as Belle’s screams filled the waiting room.

“It’s okay Belle,” Eveline soothed, setting the child down on a seat as the reverend closed all the doors, bolting them tight. “What do we do?” Eveline cried out.

“Keep the child safe!” he ordered. Eveline unbuttoned her coat and took out her blade, unsheathing it and clasping it tightly in her hand. Behind them the door began to shake and in front of them the cries of men, women and creatures filled the air. The reverend also withdrew a sword, curved and gleaming from his long coat. Eveline looked about and found a toilet. Quickly with the reverend by the side of Belle she opened the door, there was no window.

“Put her in the toilet!” she ordered as Belle cried out.

“No!” Belle screamed as the reverend placed the child in the toilet. “Don’t leave me please!”

“I’m not leaving you!” Eveline ran to Belle and knelt down before her, the windows of the waiting room now breaking. “Belle listen to me!” she said firmly causing the child to quieten. “Those bad men are going to come crashing into this waiting room do you understand?”

“I’m scared. Where is Galean?”

“He is outside warding some of the men away. Belle I am going to close and lock this door, it is the only way to keep you safe from the men until the reverend and I get rid of them, do you understand?”

“I don’t want to be locked in a toilet,” the child cried with terrified eyes.

“I know pet I know, it will only be for a few minutes okay? I promise,” Eveline said quickly, her breathe ragged and rushed. Belle simply nodded and stood back into the tiny sized toilet, sitting atop the toilet. “Here take my scarf and hold onto it for me okay?” Belle took the scarf and held it close as Eveline closed the door and locked it with a wave of her hand. Turning she saw another window break and a shadow enter, his blade of fire bright and terrifying. The reverend transformed into a stronger being, wielding his sword with strength and precision as Eveline ran towards another shadow that had entered through the window. She would never know or understand what had come over her in that minute, but she had rid herself of any lingering fear and stood tall, wielding the blade within her hand as though it had been a part of her since her beginning. She bent low as the shadow flung his sword in the air and used the hilt of her blade, blowing him hard in the leg. The shadow undeterred by her move kicked her hard, so hard that she fell back against the tiled wall with great force, winding her soundly. As she struggled to get up the other shadow still warding off the terrifying reverend spoke aloud, his voice cold and emotionless.

“He said not to kill her!”

The shadow that now had a hand around Eveline’s throat looked into her eyes before dropping her. Eveline fell to the ground hard and cried out. The shadow bent down low and forced her head up, scanning her throat. Eveline struggled to find her blade as the shadow found the bite mark and smiled dangerously. He called out to the other.

“She has been bitten!”

Eveline looked across at the shadow with terrified eyes, clasping her dagger tightly. The reverend sliced the shadow into two and stepped back, watching the shadow fall to the ground, his blade of fire dying. Without wasting another moment, Eveline pierced the shadow before her and winced in pain as he screeched, his cry filling every corner and shadow within the waiting room. She watched as he fell backwards, dropping his own sword of fire to the ground. The reverend ran over to Eveline.

“Are you alright?” he asked quickly as the door to the station fell down with one swift kick. Eveline looked at the door and saw with relief Galean entering, ready for combat.

“Eveline!” he cried out running over to her. “Where is Belle?”

“In the toilet,” Eveline said as she was helped to her feet by the reverend. Galean turned and made his way over to the toilet, opening it also with a wave of his hand. Inside Belle was sitting with her knees up to her face.

“Belle it’s okay,” Galean soothed picking the child up in his arms and turning. “Quick we must get into the train now!” he ordered loudly. Eveline followed the reverend out onto the platform. The door of the carriage was wide open and Eveline jumped in quickly, followed by Galean and Belle. The reverend closed the door behind them and sounded the call for the train to depart. Galean rolled down the window with rapid speed.

“Thank you reverend!”

“It was an honour!” the reverend shouted back as the train began to move. Galean waved goodbye before rolling the window back up and turning. Galean and Eveline were met by an exasperated Estelle who roughly embraced her daughter.

“I tried to get out but they wouldn’t allow me,” she groaned, lifting herself away from Eveline and holding out her arms for Belle who gladly fell into them. “Poor child.” The group made their way up the carriage to first class where they took their seats. It took the group several minutes to make themselves comfortable. Wordsworth was barking loudly, unable to settle.

“Here boy,” Galean called out to the wolfhound. Wordsworth turned and made his way over to Galean. “That’s it, its okay,” he soothed, stroking the dogs ears and face tenderly. In the corner Belle was clinging to Estelle, her face stained with tears. From his coat Galean took out a small bottle and handed it to Eveline. “Give her two sips it will calm her and put her to sleep for a while.”

“Are you sure?” Eveline replied taking the tiny bottle in her hands.

“She will not remember tonight’s events when she wakens.”

With that said, Eveline gave the child two sips and waited before she eventually closed her eyes and fell asleep against Estelle who let out a long and sombre sigh.

“What a night!”

“You said the station was safe,” Eveline turned to Galean.

“I thought it was,” Galean said with shame in his eyes, he had failed. “I’m sorry.”

“There’s no need to apologise we are all on the train and unhurt,” Eveline said with a small smile on her lips. “How long will it take before we reach Bristol?”

“A few hours,” Galean muttered. “You should try to get some sleep.”

“That’s highly unlikely after tonight’s events,” Eveline laughed nervously as she noticed the dagger was still within her hand. Galean spotted the weapon and gently took it from her.

“I’ll clean it in the toilets,” he said getting up from his chair. Eveline looked up at him with terrified eyes. “Don’t worry the train is safe and secure.” With those words Eveline dropped her gaze and sighed, casting her eyes out of the window into the abyss.

“None of us are safe.”

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