Secrets of Ravenstone: Keeper of La Tecla (The Key) Book One
ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝟜

The drive was at least two hours due to slopes, ditches, minor road closures, and water-filled potholes on the road that had occasionally curved. It was unpleasant, for the hard jerks up and down made Bobby’s passengers curse aloud and some of their slurs were in appropriate for women to blurt. He slowly drove through the countryside once the road leveled out, passing scattering communities between Whitehaven and another town, its name was simple, PENRITH. Such small, quaint, and peaceful places, with no destruction or fear, oblivious as to what occurred in the Great City.

“All right, ladies. We’ll be stopping up ahead for a little while. Let’s get you lovely birds something to eat, hmm, including myself. Plus, I have some business to discuss there.” Bobby said, looking at the women through the rearview mirror, “I know the town’s owner, it’s safe, you won’t be harmed.”

“All right, that’s fine.” Lady D replied softly.

Bobby heard low stomach growls.

Zanzabarr raised his head; ears perked and head tilted, as he wondered where the low growls came from. His adult, but puppy face, looked so innocent.

I petted him with a warm smile.

“Sorry.” I groaned, “But it’s about time, I need to get out of this car. I need air.” I felt as if I couldn’t breathe, “And food.”

“Now, now little bird, hang in there.” Bobby mumbled, “Don’t need, nor want you redecorating my vehicle.” he smiled into the mirror, but she didn’t feel like smiling in reply. Instead, all he received a sarcastic raise of her left eyebrow.

Bobby drove through Penrith’s calm and inviting town, with various storefronts and small businesses lining the streets. He parked the Sedan, allowing the two women to glance out the windows, studying a medium, two-story pub painted in a dark green trimmed with black that blended with the colors of the other establishments. Its large windows graced the front exterior, allowing views inside.

“I’ll not have your pets sitting alone in the car, so let me ask the owner, see if he’ll allow you to bring them inside. Given the circumstances, I don’t think he’ll mind. There are booths close to the door once you step inside, so you should be fine and out of the way.” Bobby revealed, then turned to the two ladies that were just about to open the doors, “But ladies, this town…I guess you could say, is a lair of sorts. Many Demons, Shayds and Wraiths reside here and aren’t friendly to others that are not from these parts. Just wanted to let you know.”

“Great. Sure.” I replied quickly, then jumped out of the Sedan, needing fresh air. The cold temperatures stung my lungs but it was better than sitting trapped in an iron box on wheels. I was anxious, pacing nervously as I stared at my feet.

Lady D too, quickly climbed out, taking deep breaths as well. Walking around the Sedan, she approached her daughter, and offered comforting words then began rummaging through her purse for something of great importance.

Bobby shuffled around the front seats, grabbing a few things, one of which was a leather folder of some sort with photos of the woman, her daughter and, her black wolf. Tucking them inside quickly, he watched as the mother stood alongside her daughter, handing her what looked like vitamins and a bottle of water. Raising an eyebrow, he dismissed the strangeness of their behaviors, then climbed out.

“Come in when you’re ready!” Bobby’s voice announced as he approached the pub.

Both my mom and I were admiring the town then turned, hearing his voice. Studying the pub further, we then took notice of the name hanging on an old Victorian iron plaque. Immediately, we gulped, for the name didn’t call attention at all. In a bold, Gothic font, it read:

Nik’s Lair & Eatery, Only The Freshest!

“The fre-freshest what?” Lady D questioned in lofty tone.

“I don’t know, but I don’t like this.” I moaned in complaint.

Our focus was distracted when Lady D glanced toward the pub’s front doors, spotting Bobby peeking his head out, waving his left hand in a beckoning manner, for them to come inside. She smiled, then turned, reaching inside for Freya’s carrier while her daughter gripped Zanzabarr’s leash, pulling him out of the vehicle. Quickly ascending the steps, both my mom and I took slow, soft, deep breaths. Entering the pub, the behaviors of her feline and my wolf began to escalate with a sense of nervousness; Freya hissed, pawing at the cage door but my mom covered her with the blanket, while Zanzabarr released deep growls through his muzzle. We surveyed our surroundings then quickly took a seat in one of the booths close to the door, trying to keep a low-key profile. But that was difficult with a hissing cat on the seat alongside my mom and large growling wolf laying at my feet beneath the table. It was then the overwhelming sense of pureblood Demons, Shayds and supernatural Wraiths, hit me suddenly.

Thoughts screamed at me all at once and, grabbing onto the table’s ledge, I blocked them all out. I panted, as my eyes had quickly glanced around, taking notice of all the figures sitting at the tables.

The pub was hospitable but dimly lit, as all of the shutters on the expansive front windows were partially closed. Low lighting from small lamps placed here and there, booths along two of its walls with tables spread about, gave a pleasant enough atmosphere. A long bar stretched across the rear of the establishment, where two bartenders wiped the counter or served drinks to waiting customers, who turned, sitting scattered. A narrow staircase alongside the bar to the left, led upstairs.

Bobby stood speaking with the bartenders, glancing over his shoulder toward the women sitting at the booth, then tapped the counter, before heading up the stairs.

Trying to focus on something else other than the patrons, my eyes scanned the menu laying on the table, while listening to the melodious Gypsy music over the speakers. Listening as my foot tapped the leg of the table to the rhythm of the music, I paid no attention to Zanzabarr’s movement lying at my feet.

One of the bartenders, Roberto, a Wraith, Puerto Rican ethnicity like the half-breed, walked over, introducing himself. Tall and muscular, he had a boxer’s build with rough hands that had seen many fights, so it seemed. He neatly combed and tied back his wavy black hair in a ponytail and slicked back with a thin layer of men’s hair gel. Scruff, although kept groomed, grew along his chin and his features were attractive enough to receive double glances from the young woman as he approached the table. Scanning the women’s appearances, and catching their half-breed and mortal scents, his tall and masculine stature changed, his mannerisms were reluctant.

Sighing heavily, he inquired about their order.

Catching the Wraith’s scents, sniffing at his boots, Zanzabarr growled through his muzzle, irritating the Wraith who softly released faint hisses.

“Sorry!” I pleaded, watching as Roberto took cautious steps back, seeing the wolf’s size emerging from beneath the table.

“Santo, hijo de puta!” the Wraith cursed in Spanish, taking a few more steps back until bumping into a table behind him.

“Por favor, está bien.” I pleaded, stating it was all right.

Roberto released a guttural hiss, ignoring the young woman’s words. Repeating their order, he sped around, returning to the bar. Leaning in and slamming the paper on the counter, handing in the order, the Latino excused himself. Removing his apron, he sped up the narrow staircase, leaving the other bartender, Steven, to venture into the kitchen to prepare the waiting order. He looked at the paper, then glanced over his shoulder toward the booth, before disappearing behind the set of swinging doors.

“God damn it Zanzabarr, that’s enough!” I groaned, “I don’t like it any more than you do, but you have to calm down!” my dark eyes stared into the wolf’s yellow eyes, “Don’t give me that look, you’re a bad boy.” I pointed at him before my hands scratched his neck, “Lay down.” I snapped my fingers.

The wolf whined, crawling beneath the table, making it very awkward for the two women as he cramped around their feet, turning around to face outward, watching over everything and everyone that moved, panting heavily.

My mom and I carried on surveying around warily, for we couldn’t be certain if we had been followed, feeling the uneasy stares from the sparse patrons.

“At least there weren’t any Chacca-somethings on the menu.” Lady D teased, attempting to lighten the mood.

I chuckled lightly, then reached my hands under the table. I felt Zanzabarr shaking nerves against my leg. Offering gentle whispers and scratches between his ears, he leaned his head in my lap, closing his eyes, enjoying my touch.

Fifteen minuter later, our meals were ready.

Steven emerged through the swinging doors, carrying trays in each hand; the smell of English-style gourmet burgers and their seasoned fries filled the air. Approaching the table with the two hungry and anxious women, he laid the trays on the ledge, avoiding the large wolf’s enormous head. Offering the women a brief smile, he moved swiftly that neither of them could get a good glimpse at his features. Perhaps he wanted it that way.

“If there’s anything else you need, just raise your hand.” his soft English voice was calm and accommodating. Taking the trays off the table, he turned, returning to the bar in strong strides. His apron hugged around his slender waist.

Zanzabarr peeked his head out, laying in my lap, smelling the food. The sound of his tongue licking through the muzzle was too distracting to ignore.

Glancing down, I smiled, sneaking a curly fry or two.

Taking our time, allowing Bobby to conclude his business, we paid no attention for the time being, to the watchful eyes in the room. But then, that changed. Our eyes continuously took glimpses to our left and right, watching as men and women stared in our direction, like hawks watching their prey. As my eyes focused toward the bar, a man of Hungarian blood, appeared out of nowhere. He was handsome, sharp features and below shoulder length, black slightly wavy hair, neatly combed back. Dark mysterious eyes stared in our direction with a piercing gaze. A beautifully trimmed goatee completed his features. I’d guess he was in his mid-to-late 40s, having that Gothic-Dracula persona, dressed in steampunk, maybe more of an aristocratic manner with a black shirt open at the collar, worn beneath his double-breasted, deep red paisley velvet vest. Tapping the fingers of his left hand on the counter, silver rings graced four of his fingers; the shiny metal glistened in the faint light, as did silver chains hanging around his neck.

“Yza, what’s the matter?” Lady D whispered, leaning in, then glancing over his shoulder, following her daughter’s gaze, she took notice for herself, “Oh my, who’s that?”

“I-I don’t know.” I cleared my throat, breaking my gaze, “But if Dracula is out there, he fits the description.” my eyes took a quick peek above me glasses, “More like Sweeney Todd, but you know, without the mad-crazy hair.” I finished my movie reference.

“Is he…” Lady D attempted to ask, but before she could even finish her sentence, she straightened her posture, hearing the man’s voice telepathically speaking to her with a Hungarian accent.

“If you have questions, kindly address them to me directly, my lady.”

Leaning against the counter, the man watched as the women sat still, with their eyes growing wide in surprise.

“We apologize.” the young woman’s voice entered his mind, followed by a respectful nod in his direction, “Honestly, we meant no disrespect.”

“It’s all right, dear girl.” his voice answered, “I am Demon, and you are mortal. That is tempting the appetite of Wraiths sitting among you, so I recommend that you do not stare too long. They’re picky about that sort of thing.”

“Understood.” I finished.

Lady D said nothing, taking a gulp as she broke her gaze. She felt unnerved when suddenly, there was an eerie silence in the room as voices heard whispering before, ceased completely. The faint music had become static over the speakers.

Taking sips from my straw, I glanced around, noticing that the scattered patrons sitting with their heads low, while others leaned forward, reaching their table’s edge, all leered in our direction.

“Is it just me or is everyone staring at us as if we’re dinner?” Lady D inquired in soft whimper.

“Yep.” I agreed, squeaking softly.

Zanzabarr growled as he, too, sensed something peculiar. And then, unsettling thoughts pertaining to their dislike for half-breeds and magical practitioners, crowded my mind. I felt nauseous and in danger. I grabbed the dinner knife to my right, grasping it tightly. I panted, trying to control my inner fire that wanted to just burst to the surface, burning the fabric of the leather upholstery. The thoughts held harmful intentions against us and Zanzabarr, for they sensed his wolf nature and for Demons or Shayds, a wolf of any breed, were their Kryptonite for if they’re scratched or bitten, they perish from the infliction in a slow and painful demise. Closing my eyes, moaning deeply, the thoughts of what they wanted to do my mom, made me dig the tip of the knife, plunging it deep into the wooden surface of the table. Making eye contact with the as many of the figures across the room as I could, my threatening telepathic words and images of being burned, were hopefully enough to offer a great warning.

Seeing the images the young woman sent out, the Hungarian Demon pushed himself from the bar’s counter, affirmatively and loudly snapping his fingers twice and there it was, pale blue sparks of electricity flickering from the tips of his fingers. He was an Electrokinetic Demon, a powerful one at that, for the patrons turned their heads away as if being told. All the lamps and light fixtures flickered from the Electrokinesis.

Remaining silent, watching as the men and women glared in his direction in defiance of his warning and authority, Bobby quietly stepped off the last step of the narrow staircase with the two Wraiths Steven and Roberto. He watched, studying the occurrence taking place between the Demon and those he called kin or friends.

“I think it’s time we left.” Bobby muttered, taking slow steps toward the Hungarian. Receiving a nod in reply without the need of eye contact, Bobby rushed across the room, standing protectively in front of his passengers who sat fearfully.

The Hungarian Demon stepped forward, raising his hands, as sparks of blue electricity continuously crawled along the tips of his fingers.

“OUT…all of you!” he demanded firmly, but his words were met with great hesitation, “I will not tell you again, OUT!” he shouted, and the sparks grew more intense, as did the lights that flickered off and on, as if a surge through the wires had an interference, but then some of the lamps on the walls near the booths, exploded, causing the two women to shriek and cover their ears and hide their faces.

Sensing the power this Demon possessed, tickled my spine.

The pub quickly emptied as the men and women rushed past the booth, through the door, or disappeared in various ways of teleportation. The Demon, standing in the center of the pub, glanced in Bobby’s direction, suggesting that it was time he and his guests should leave.

“Agreed.” the half-breed Demon nodded, then quickly turned to the two women, helping them out of the booth and on their feet, “Come on, loves…he doesn’t ask twice and some of them might come back, this time for a taste.”

“Come back for a taste?” I complained.

“Yes, now move!” Bobby urged her toward the door, “You too, come on.” he gestured Lady D to follow after her daughter, “I’ll get your pussycat, go on outside now, wait by the car.” he turned, reaching across the seat for the carrier; he could hear the small feline meowing and hissing loudly from inside, then he stepped aside as the large wolf emerged, scampering after his pack mother.

Neither my mom nor I needed to be told twice, but glancing at the man over my shoulder, before disappearing behind the door, I admired his power that he radiated, I assumed he was a level 4 Demon. Watching as Bobby veered around my mom, handing her the carrier, I posed the question to the half-breed and he verified the Demons’ status, but I was wrong, he was a level 5.

“A level five?” I wondered curiously, “Never met a level five.”

Bobby clambered into the Sedan after the women, and then directed his gaze toward the sky, noticing the dark-murky clouds swiftly rolling in. Switching on the vehicle, he quickly drove down the street at a fast pace, leaving Penrith behind us, talking about the man of whom Bobby respectfully spoke of. His name was Nikolaas A. Lazaar, and he purchased with his own money, Penrith, after Hunters murdered his wife. He vowed to accept only Demons, Shayds, and Wraiths, or even scattered mortals and half-breeds.

“Hmm.” I moaned, biting my lip. If I were to learn about my demonic powers, I’d want it to be from that man, or someone like him.

“Be careful what you wish for, girl.” Bobby spoke over her loud thoughts, “Nikolaas, I guess you can say, has and still has, walks on the darker side of the arcane magics, and you love, I can’t imagine becoming a Shayd.” he caught her gaze in the mirror, “Despite your temperament, you’re not an evil person, sarcastic and hot-tempered yes, but those magics would destroy that goodness.”

“It’s only evil if you use it for such, but arcane is different, I do know that, however I’d still want to learn.” I muttered, leaning forward.

“Everything all right?” Lady D leaned in, taking notice of the tension between the driver and her daughter.

“Yeah, we’re good.” I looked at her, “Just half-breed stuff, you know.” I shrugged, giving a faint smile then I turned, looking out the window through the bars.

Lady D sat back, frowning, before she glanced away.

Nikolaas approached the windows, watching the Sedan drive down the streets, disappearing around the corner. He grew a faint smirk as he thought, “WHAT A STRANGE GIRL, A HALF-BREED YES, BUT NOT LIKE THE OTHERS I’VE MET BEFORE. SOMETHING UNNATURAL ABOUT HER, SOMETHING UNTAUGHT BUT SHE COULD HAVE POTENTIAL.” his thoughts were interrupted; a hand tapped his shoulder. Turning in place, there stood Steven and Roberto, shaking their heads as if telling him to let it go. His smirk faded as he glanced out the window once more, letting out a deep grunt of frustration, revealing red Demon eyes. He pushed past Steven, who released a deep hiss. Nikolaas took a pause, glancing slightly over his shoulder then continued up his way to his office upstairs.

Steven stood, placing his hands on his hips, listening as the door slammed loudly, shaking the light fixtures hanging from above.

“Temperamental Hungarian!” he shouted, raising his gaze.

“Yes, yes I am!” Nikolaas’ voice boomed in reply.

“Viste el tamaño del lobo? Qué diablos hace una joven así, con un lobo como mascota?” Roberto questioned, wondering if Steven noticed the size of the wolf, and wondering how the young woman could possess one as a pet, “Beautiful creature, though.” he finished in English.

“Yes it was, and I don’t know.” Steven shrugged, “That’s her story, and not one that is any of our business. They’re both on their way to the island, so they’re their problem now.”

Exiting the town, the drive was rough as hidden potholes had presented problems for the Sedan’s chained wheels but Bobby maneuvered through them. He finally drove onto a long-open highway, green countryside stretched on both sides of the roads. Seeing the pavement ahead, I felt like this ride was physically going to kill me because I didn’t know the duration of the ride. All day my a** you know?!

Lady D, noticing the impact of the iron, removed a bottle from her purse, offering her daughter another pill containing an herbal mixture that would soothe her stomach, although they didn’t last long because her immune system quickly and literally burned it off.

Leaning my head on the window, after swallowing the horse pill with several gulps of water, I could see scattered farms and warehouses in the distance. No one knew if any of them were occupied, but Bobby drove past many abandoned towns, structures and communities.

As the drive continued, rare passing farm and cargo trucks appeared on the opposite highway, beeping their horns in a friendly greeting or warning not to venture any further closer toward the Great City as they fled that direction.

“What do you know, others on the highway to Hell.” I said sarcastically.

Lady D smiled in agreement.

Seeming to go on forever, there were only two pullover lanes we had passed during the entire drive, making it harder for me. Even with my mom’s herbs. Zanzabarr and Freya too, I knew felt cramped, complaining in their own little ways; loud meows and whines distracted our driver who huffed silently in complaint.

“Bobby, is there any way you could replace another pullover lane? Just for two minutes to let our animals out? This drive is not only making me feel trapped, but them as well, and since you don’t want accidents in your car?” I offered terms.

But Bobby didn’t answer.

Lady D frowned. Reaching into her purse, removing a small jar of universal herbs, she popped the cork, withdrawing her hand with her fingers pinched together. Sprinkling the herbs at her feet inconspicuously, she muttered a soft chant under her breath that were silently spoken, but the movement of her lips revealed the magical incantation. Dusting her hand on her skirt, she acted as if nothing happened, quickly hiding the jar in her purse. She glanced out the window, humming a soft tune to herself with innocence that was somewhat, in her way, humorous.

Minutes passed, and the engine decided it would offer a break. There was a loud pop, followed by hot steam beginning its escape from beneath the hood.

Bobby frowned, glimpsing into the mirror, commenting as he made eye contact with the two women who eerily sat silently.

“If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you did this! You jinxed my vehicle, I don’t know who but I know it was one of you.”

“Maybe you should take that as a sign, that’s all.” Lady D said in a low tone, making her argument.

“Signs are for idiots!” he argued in protest.

“In a moment, I’ll show you what this idiot can REALLY do, now there’s a pullover lane just up ahead there.” the mortal woman pointed toward a small road sign declaring another lane that was quite hidden from view, “Surely your car needs a break too, yes?”

“All right, easy, before things turn ugly!” I pleaded, looking at Bobby then over at my mom, “Or before something sets on fire that will leave all of us stranded on the side of the road.”

Without another word, Bobby carefully drove to the side lane, coming to abrupt halt. Climbing out, slamming the door, he walked around the Sedan, opening the trunk. Retrieving a large gas container filled with filtered water and a small oil lubricant, he slammed the trunk hard in frustration, while the two women climbed out, taking in deep breaths of the much needed air for themselves and their companions.

I walked over, leaning on the barricade, overlooking the open pasture behind me, while Zanzabarr sniffed around the trims of the grass, peeking through the gaps of the metal sheets. I let him off the leash to run around, allowing him the exercise that his long legs needed, and whenever I felt he was too far out, I whistled loudly, summoning back and he always heeled.

Lady D released Freya from her carrier and walked toward her daughter with the small feline on a leash. She watched as their pets enjoyed the fresh air and faint breeze that tickled their black fur. Growing a wide smile, she tilted her head and placed her hand over her heart, watching as Zanzabarr gave Freya a brief sniff and nudge, making sure she was safe. The small black feline enjoyed the attention, as she rubbed her tail across his nose then her whiskers against his muzzle.

“That’s just too precious.” I smiled, for the moment softened my heat, then I turned, glancing behind us, watching Bobby continuing to examine the engine, wiping away the hot steam around the pipes and windshield. While his mouth muttered inaudible words, his thoughts screamed many obscenities, “I know this must be a first for him, having two questionable women in his company, but there’s no need for him to be such an a** about it.” my eyes turned away from him.

“True, but we too, should show him the respect he deserves. He is our guide after all, he could easily leave us here to fend for ourselves.” Lady D protested, “And I, too, know this is not only difficult for him, but for you too being in that damn car, but we should still stand our ground. As I did, and as I have always raised you to do.”

“If that’s his bad side, I’d hate to see his good side.” I leaned in, whispering softly, then looked at my mom curiously, “But, Mommy…” I scratched my chin, “you didn’t really jinx his car, so we could stop. Did you? Because I know it wasn’t me.” I held up my hands in innocence of the scenario, “At least, it wasn’t me this time around.” I finished.

Lady D looked away, adjusting her sweater, answering softly.

“A little sprinkle of herbs never hurt anyone.” she cleared her throat, “Come on, Freya…it’s getting too chilly out here for you, come on sweetheart.” she knelt down, picking up the small feline with icy paws, “Are you coming?” she called out over her shoulder, as she returned to the car, placing Freya back in the carrier.

Shaking my head, knowing my mom and what she meant, I whistled for Zanzabarr who rolled around in the cold, wet grass, then watched as the large wolf lept over the barricade, heeling immediately. Returning to the car, both my mom and I, and that of our companions, waited for Bobby.

Closing the hood, he shook his head, returning the gallon and oil can to the trunk, then climbed into the front seat. Leering at the two women in the mirror, he pointed a finger at them and then started the engine, being on their way once more. Things were quiet between himself and his passengers, but he broke the silence, revealing that the ride should, give or take, be another hour or so, but begged for their patience, and then there it was, he mentioned he’d get them there before dusk.

“Again with the BE THERE BEFORE DUSK.” I complained.

Hitting his foot on the gas, the Sedan traveled unimpeded on the bare and unwelcoming motorway and in that instant, so quickly, the skies resounded with a plummeting downpour.

Bobby huffed, activating the windshield wipers.

Listening to the squeaking sound of the wiping blades, and that of the rain against the roof, it began sounding rhythmic, as if it were a song’s introduction.

“How about some radio?” Bobby announced. Reaching for the dashboard, pressing a button, the radio turned on and just as he turned up the volume, a song he knew word-for-word, had begun. He glanced in the mirror, watching as the two women smiled, knowing the song extremely well; their voices sang cheerfully.

Glancing out our windows, water spilled onto the glass. The visibility of the green countryside, looking as if someone had covered the landscape with one massive multicolored blanket, was a blur. It went from a cold, beautiful morning, to quite a miserable one in just a matter of hours. Both my mom and I felt the dampness through the windows, then accepted three blankets over the front seat offered by Bobby, who turned up the heat once more.

The long drive continued.

As my mom and I engaged in conversation about many of the possible occurrences in the Great City, it was then the three of us remained dead silent. Glancing out the windshield, there it was, the Great City far in the distance. Smoke rose above the rooftops and the dark cloud had grown in size, and just when we thought we had left all of it behind us, here we were, close enough to feel the presence of what had taken place days before. Feeling a sadness flood over our emotions, I leaned back, gripping tightly onto my mom’s hand, I could feel her trembling within my grasp.

“I can’t believe it’s all gone.” her soft voice whispered as all of the memories of their life flashed in her mind, “Five years of memories all gone. We came here thinking we’d be safe but now look…”

Seeing the images flood into my mind, I leaned my head on her shoulder, hugging her closely.

“I know, Mommy…I know.” I spoke telepathically, “But we still have each other, and our companions, so that counts for something.” I comforted the best I could, because I felt many of my own emotions.

Lady D lovingly kissed her daughter’s forehead, then leaned her head against hers.

The Great City grew closer as time passed, looming ahead in the distance looking menacing as ever!

Just then Bobby, and other vehicles passing by, immediately hit their brakes because in the distance, were ear piercing and titanic explosions. Wedging doors open and clambering onto the hoods, myself included, flames suddenly erupted out of thin air, as though a giant blowtorch soared through the sky, creating a heavy blanket of fog and smoke. I knew what it was, without having to see it, I knew. Sliding off the hood, climbing back inside the Sedan, I instructed Bobby to hit the gas and get out of the area now!

“What was that?!” he inquired loudly, over the sounds of tires screeching up and down the road behind or ahead of him

“You don’t want to know!” I groaned, holding onto the seat in front of me.

“You don’t think it was…” Lady D feared, “IT, do you?”

“I think so. It rained fire, but there was nothing there.” my voice rasped. Wiping water off my face and gently shaking out my jacket, I finished, “Who knows what kind of weaponry and monstrosities the new Lord has created or conjured now?”

“So you know what that was?!” Bobby wanted answers.

“Yes, and I don’t want to talk about it!” I snapped, looking at him in the mirror.

Nodding, accepting her bluntness, Bobby left the highway. The road was lonely, as they were the only vehicle to drive across its cracked pavement. There were patches of wet dirt, splashing mud into the air, covering the Sedan in a thick layer of brown sludge; some splattered on the windshield. Up ahead, Bobby pointed toward a harbor and port that was out in the distance, revealing they were almost there. He steered the Sedan sharply, leaving the highway; the two women had turned in their seats, watching the Great City fade, but the dark cloud, fire and smoke stayed in sight. Things were quiet between the three individuals, until once more, there was a break in the rain, revealing a smooth drive as the green landscape disappeared behind us. Looking forward, the clear view revealed large buildings and structures that grew closer with each passing turn of the tires.

Bobby, in the corner of his eye, watched as the women leaned forward, holding onto the front seats, gazing out the window. Approaching the large town, HEYSHAM, there seemed to be a harbor and port, for we could see boat masts and the waters of the Irish Sea. Crowding the winding streets with several other vehicles, Bobby managed through the traffic, having to honk his horn loudly over the others around him.

The pier was packed, with many booking passage across the sea into Ireland.

People like my mom and me, had nothing but their luggage, pets, and children, families and remaining belongings, as they sought sanctuary and safety far from the Great City and its new Lord in command, or the surrounding towns and cities.

“These poor people.” Lady D muttered.

Continuing to beep his horn, the crowd parted, allowing Bobby to drive forward until he made a rapid halt, parking the Sedan in the last spot of the packed parking lot far from the large harbor master’s registry building.

“All right, loves. I’m afraid we’re going to have to go by foot the rest of the way from here.” he announced, turning in his seat, “Come now, we need to get going before the harbor gets too crowded with refugees. Your pets can stay inside the car for now.” he nodded, then quickly climbed out.

Quickly adhering to his instructions, we awkwardly followed Bobby through the crowd of magical practitioners, Demons and Shayds, leading to the registry office located on the main South entrance. There were Wraiths teleporting in brief puffs of mist-like essences in large groups near the registry office.

Turning to the women, he instructed them to wait for him at the other end of the building to the West, where they were to wait for him near the fenced area, protected by armed soldiers.

Reluctant to do so, we nodded. Exiting through the doors, we scampered across an empty lot between the registry building behind us and a massive warehouse ahead of us. The long harbor deck led to a fenced area where a lone boat sat tied, rocking with the movement of the waves in the water.

“Look.” I pointed.

Lady D’s tired eyes watched as ferries and private boats with citizens boarded, pulled out of the harbor on the other side of the port.

“Where’s Bobby?” she wondered, looking for the half-breed, “If the boats are all leaving, what about us?”

Approaching closer to the fenced off area marked with a large R posted about, we waited, when suddenly four tall, muscular and mysterious soldiers appeared, carrying what looked like guns and bladed weapons on their belts; two were Demons. Dressed in black leather-steampunk uniforms, their double-breasted jackets had the long tails hanging down the back, with fringed shoulder trim along the seams, and a silver Raven broach-like badge pinned either on the left or right side of their chests. They boldly questioned our reasons for being in the vicinity and after explaining that Robert, aka Bobby was retrieving our paperwork, the men nodded but made sure we didn’t go anywhere. Yeah, right, where would we go?

I paced, studying the lone boat behind the fenced barricade, rocking from the waters, that was big enough to hold at least ten people.

“Where is he?!” I complained, “It’s been twenty minutes!”

Lady D said nothing, as she paced the other direction, then she turned, leaning against the fence, needing something to sit on because of her tiring knees, and not even her cane kept her from showing her discomfort of standing too long. She was then surprised, and startled, when a hand reached over the fence behind her, handing her a folding chair.

“Oh, thank you.” she appreciated, receiving a nod in reply.

“Ladies! Over here!” Bobby’s voice announced loudly.

“You’ve got to be kidding!” Lady D complained, “Just when I sit down and get comfortable?!”

“There’s no win-win here.” I looked at her.

Turning around, he rushed toward the fenced gate, pushing a large trolley with the women’s luggage and belongings that had been stacked upon it. He put Freya’s carrier atop. There was a moment where he stumbled aside, watching as the wolf ran past him, dragging his chain leash behind him.

“Zanzabarr!” I called out, kneeling in front of him.

The four soldiers backed away, cautiously placing their hands on the hilt of their bladed weapons and grips of their guns, for they had never seen a wolf of his size and nature in these parts. Exchanging glimpses between them, they then looked in the man’s direction, demanding answers from him.

Pushing the trolley, parking it next to the women, he huffed.

“Bloody hell, getting through that was impossible, but thank you.” Bobby glanced down at the wolf, who panted, before he let out a deep growl as one of the men stepped forward.

“Robert, it’s been a long time mate.” he greeted.

“Yes lad, yes it has.” Bobby returned the smile, then turned to the two women, excusing himself momentarily as he stepped aside with the soldiers, murmuring.

Lady D watched as they nodded, agreeing to something, then shared a brief handshake after showing them papers he pulled from his pocket. She frowned, wondering the contents of the papers then turned her gaze, looking for her daughter who stood staring at the boat. To her, it reminded her of a trip to Italy, riding in the Venetian water taxi’s. Its sleek, black body paint and gold detailing, with a large symbol painted in gold on its crown, the boat’s hood, was unclear but all her eyes saw was what looked like the letter R encircled with some sort of a bird hovering above it.

“Hmm.” she moaned. It was striking against the black paint. As she turned to the warehouse, the same symbol was printed on the side of the massive building.

“Just when I thought this journey was difficult enough, hmm?” I argued, sensing her presence alongside me, “Private use, it’s interesting.” and looking around, everything in this area had declared private use, “Yep, it’s a cult.”

“That’s not funny.” Lady D looked at her daughter, then turned to Freya, attempting to calm her through the carrier’s door, but the feline hissed, even at her comforting gesture.

“Ladies!” Bobby interrupted the women’s actions, “These are for you.” he handed Lady D the paperwork, “Those are your temporary port passes to get across the sea and onto the Isle, but once you’re there, you’ll be given permanent documents.”

“Isle?” Lady D rasped, “You mean Ireland?”

Bobby said nothing, taking a step toward them, placing his hands gently on their shoulders.

“Please, I understand your cautiousness I do, but you have to trust me. Where I’m taking you, you’ll be safe but it’s across the waters, that way.” he pointed out toward the vast sea that stood between Heysham and a thick blanket of fog, “It’s, more or less, between here and Ireland. You can’t see it from here because of that bloody fog, but it’s very much there. And don’t attempt looking for it on any map, you’ll never replace it.”

“Fog?” Lady D gazed out at the waters.

“Don’t say it, please don’t say it.” I pleaded softly.

“It houses the Crawling Eye, doesn’t it?” Lady D finished.

“Oh, she said it.” I fretted humorously.

Bobby shook his head with a smirk he couldn’t hide.

“No, it does not hide the Crawling Eye.” he said through his laughter, “Though I have seen it and it was quite silly and ridiculous. But I would have gone with the Mists of Avalon.” he winked at her, then turned.

“Hey, don’t underestimate the Crawling Eye, it gave me lots of nightmares as a child.” Lady D stated.

“Noted.” Bobby nodded.

“Robert!” the harbor master called out, “You need to leave, you need to go now! The way is clear, the Master’s expecting you!”

Bobby turned toward the man’s voice, observing the pier that began crowding more with each passing minute. Turning to the women, he urged them toward the dock.

“We need to get your bums on that boat before others back there scramble onto it. It’s privately owned, just about everything on this side of the gate is, and those people sadly, will not be allowed access onto the Isle without permission.” he huffed, “The soldiers here will show their temperaments, even if that means using their arcane magics, but that’s if…”

“If what?” I snapped, looking at him.

“That’s if they get through the barrier, and I don’t think it’ll be too pleasant for two birds such as yourselves, to witness. I think you should just turn your head away, get your pets and luggage on board, hmm? Hurry now, loves…”

“But that’s not fair!” Lady D objected, “For the people, I mean. They…” her eyes scanned the crowd, “s-some of them have children!” her heart broke, seeing mothers holding their crying children, hoping someone would be kind of enough to take them under their care if they, as their parents, couldn’t be there for them.

“Life isn’t fair, dear woman. Take you and your daughter, for example. Was it fair that you lost your home?” Bobby added in a brief but firm assumption, “Now get your bums moving!” he opened the gate, leading them down the single ramp to the boat, “My vehicle will stay here, it’ll be fine.” he finished over his shoulder.

Before protests could be made, a rush of people bombarded the area, pushing through the gate leading to the restricted dock. Two of the four soldiers, created arcane spells, putting in place invisible barriers between the crowd and the dock, while two of the other soldiers helped the two women down the dock and aboard the boat that rocked unsettlingly. If the ramp, connecting the dock and the boat, hadn’t been put into place, it would’ve been extremely difficult.

Once my feet were on the deck of the boat, I turned, helping my mom while my eyes veered around her, watching as all of those people continued pounding against the barrier, creating violent shimmers of light with arcane sigils quickly sparking before fading away.

“Hurry, inside!” Bobby urged, beckoning the women into the cabin with their pets.

Following his instructions, opening the curtains, my mom and I watched as the two soldiers untied the ropes keeping the boat tethered, while Bobby swiftly lifted anchor; the engine revved beneath the hull, churning the water. The half-breed sat in the front seat, quickly turning the wheel, veering the boat away from the harbor.

The two men waved farewell, unsure if they were seen, then turned to the other soldiers who were pushing their barrier back away from the area but a large rush of desperate souls lept around the barrier that didn’t extend all the way around. They were frightened and desperate, attempting to jump onto the fleeing boat but they were too far, falling into the icy, rough waters. The harbor master, soldiers, and his workers tossed life-preservers, extended hook-shaped poles to pull them in, or the soldiers used arcane ropes to capture them, as well as children that splashed, holding onto the beams that supported the dock.

Looking through the curtains, the moment was no different than when my mom and I boarded the train, with people all around, scrambling and rushing to replace safety. It was just so heartbreaking, but there was nothing that could be done. We closed the curtains, holding onto each other, not wanting to see a moment more, when suddenly we flinched in place; the sound of gunshots and screams echoed in the distance. We both closed our eyes, tightly squeezing each other.

Bobby didn’t glance back, revealing the journey across the sea would take at least three hours, god willing. He had to be cautious of the velocity he traveled, for the waters were commencing to become choppy, due to the never ending stream of other vessels moving in opposite directions, and in combination with the approaching downpour, producing a bit of wave commotion. He listened as the women agreed, sitting comfortably in the cabin behind him, with cream-colored leather tuft seating, offering views of the sea on both sides, and along the back, once the drapes were slid open.

Zanzabarr whined, because he didn’t like the sound of the roaring engine, or being on the large open sea. I comforted him, then glanced at my mom, who didn’t favor the ride, for it was affecting her vertigo. Hell, I didn’t like it either but as my eyes veered toward the wheel, Bobby briefly put the boat on auto-pilot, offering relief in the ways of motion sickness pills and bottles of water removed from a small mini fridge in the helm.

“Thank you.” I smiled. Once swallowing the water, I fearfully questioned, glancing at him, then around him toward the helm, “Wait a minute, if you’re in here, who’s driving?!”

“Auto-pilot, love.” Bobby turned, gesturing toward the helm.

“Does it know where it’s going?” Lady D groaned.

“Yes.” he turned, returning to the wheel, then peeked his head over his right shoulder, glancing at their alarmed faces, “I am trying to understand your uneasiness, but understanding as you know, works both ways, yes? I’m doing the best I can with what I have, and following instructions to the letter to get you to your destination safely all right? Now please, no more questions and if either of you…” he turned in the seat, “can’t keep your traps quiet, and continue squawking like two bloody Ravens, I will turn this boat ’round and let you replace another form of transportation, do you agree?”

“A-agreed.” Lady D rasped.

“And you?” Bobby looked at the half-breed.

“Agreed.” I nodded.