Blood Moon Redemption

by Judy DuCharme

  Jill nodded.

  “We’re pregnant!” Rube picked up Jill in a big hug and twirled her around. He planted a big kiss on her lips. “Terrific, this is terrific!”

  Jill stepped back. “Rube, how about I call your folks and get your mom’s mind off Tassie with our good news? You call Jared and maybe Frank, too, and I’ll go see my dad.”

  “Yes, you talk to my folks and your dad, and I’ll go see Jared.”

  CHAPTER 15

  PRESENT DAY, MIDDLE EAST

  “Miss Stevens, this is Harvey Goldman. I believe you’ll remember me. I visited you about a possible custody case. My wife was moving to Israel. I won’t share anymore over the phone, but, well, I just came across your name and number on the paperwork we did, and realized . . . well, your family heritage, and felt you should know what is happening with my family as it relates to your family, not so much your profession. Please return my call. I would very much like to discuss some matters with you. You were quite helpful that day we talked. Thank you, Miss Stevens.”

  Tassie puffed out her cheeks, and then bit her lower lip. Why had he called now?

  Omar put a finger under her chin and lifted her gaze to his. A wry smile greeted her. “So, this is the international custody case, the relic people, the oil people?”

  Tassie turned her head and looked down. Omar would have none of it. The sting of the slap was enough for her to nod her head and look at him again.

  “You will call him.”

  Tassie groaned.

  “You’ll find out about the relic. Then you’ll tell him you’re traveling in the Middle East with me, your fiancé, and you would love to visit.”

  The plane touched down in Tel Aviv and Tassie prayed. Dear God, could You help me escape this man? Mr. Goldman would help me get home.

  She looked up. Omar stared at her. She gulped.

  “Tassie, you look beautiful, just like the old days. I’ll admit this is more appealing than the burkas. But when this is done, back to the burkas.” He laughed. “You belong to me now. I own you, so don’t get any ideas about escape here. I like you, but if you double cross me, you’re dead. Understand?”

  Tassie nodded.

  “Right now, you are again the happy lover that you were back in the States. Let me see you smile.”

  Tassie started to grimace but realized it would accomplish nothing. Play the game, Tassie, play the game.

  The heat and humidity lifted off the pavement in steamy tendrils as they exited the plane. The brightness of the sky assaulted her eyes and welcomed her at the same time. She’d not spent time outside since her abduction. How far is the sky blue, Tassie. That’s how far God will provide for you.

  Tassie looked up. Is that You talking to me, God? Like a father talking to his little girl?

  Mr. Goldman waited just outside the terminal.

  Tassie extended her hand. “Mr. Goldman, how nice to see you again.” You have no idea. “This is my fiancé Omar from the States. You sounded like you may have the relic.”

  “I do, Ms. Stevens. And, I’m so glad I returned to Israel. I hope that did not come back to haunt you, that I dropped the case.”

  “They forgave me.” Tassie smiled.

  Mr. Goldman coughed. “So sorry. I do apologize. But I needed to be here.”

  Mr. Goldman took the handle of Tassie’s luggage and began walking toward a waiting car. Omar slung the strap of his bag over his shoulder and placed his hand on Tassie’s elbow, guiding her toward the car.

  Horns honked, and people were everywhere. This was Israel. The land of her heritage, though she’d never had a desire to see it. The stone buildings, centuries old, mingled with new metal and glass buildings and seemed not to mind. Tassie had heard about all the dangers in Israel, why it was unsafe, but no one looked concerned. People were out and about just as in any U.S. city.

  “Tassie has shared with me your great find of the relic. It sounds so fascinating. The fact that Columbus is related makes this such an interesting story.”

  You are such a jerk, Omar. “Yes, Mr. Goldman, I’m so excited to actually see it.”

  The door opened. “Jared, what do you have?” Rube was out of breath.

  “Did you run or drive here? Don’t think you’ve made it to Langley this quickly before, even though we’re practically next door.” Jared stood up and shook Rube’s hand. Piles of folders and papers littered his desk. Three smart phones were within hand’s reach and two laptops sat side by side. On the side wall were two mounted flat screens with maps and information streaming across each one. On the back wall hung a white board with Tassie’s name and a few notes.

  “Well, I called you on my way. I mean, this is my sister, definitely a priority for me. She’s clever, brilliant in fact, but I don’t think she had any idea this was coming.”

  “Does she know about you or Jill’s dad?” Jared ran his hand through his red straight hair.

  “No, Jill is the only one of the family that knows. Well, except my cousin, Jethro. He’s been the quiet researcher on the family history and end time predictions. Everyone thinks he’s as luney as his grandfather—who, by the way, recently died.”

  “That’s right. I heard that. Sorry.”

  Rube moved a stack of books to a side table then sat down in a leather covered chair with wooden arms. “I think we need to get Jethro to Israel. I gave him a call on the way, as well. He thinks Tassie’s boyfriend is after the relic.”

  “We got on it as soon as you called. Omar Tugani, with a legitimate U.S. passport, went to school in the States and serves admirably with a Chicago financial law firm. Told his office that his mother in Syria is dying and had to go.”

  Rube pounded his fist on the table. “Syria! What was Tassie thinking?”

  “Apparently, he’s a looker, and smooth. Of course, there are sleeper cells in Syria connected with Nikoli Lemkrof. As things heat up in Ukraine, we’re picking up increased traffic between Syria and Lemkrof.” Jared took off his glasses and laid them on the desk.

  Rube shook his head. “Jethro may already be on a plane. If so, he’ll arrive here in a couple hours. I think he has intel on the relic. He’s convinced the blood moons play a big part.”

  Jared sighed and rubbed his head with his hands. He pulled out a pen and tablet. “Okay, we’ll cover all angles. First, any word from your sister?”

  “Just the call to our mom. Nothing since.”

  “Got a hold of Frank.” Jared shuffled through some papers, found one, glanced at it, and handed it to Rube. “He’s in the Mideast now and was able to get a read on her phone. She got a call from a Harvey Goldman about some case Tassie worked on and an indication of some family connection. Familiar with that name?”

  “Goldman is the family that my family traveled with getting out of Spain with Columbus. The Goldman boy married my ancestor Lydia. So, they would be distant family. Did she call him back?”

  “She did. Said she and her fiancé were traveling and would stop in Israel and meet him.”

  “Are you kidding me? Fiancé? Oh, man.” Rube stood up and then sat down again.

  “She said his name. So, it is confirmed she is with him.” One of the smart phones dinged. Jared glanced at the text message. “Rube, this is from Frank. Just uncovered that this Tugani guy has big connections.”

  Rube nodded. “Figured.”

  “Okay, so here’s the plan. You’re going to Israel.” He chuckled. “A lot easier than getting you into Syria. Extraction, if needed, will be a lot easier there.”

  “You think extraction is needed?”

  “She’s probably figured it out. She may be able to walk away from Tugani, with a few diversionary tactics.”

  “What about Jethro?”

  “We’ll keep him here for a while. I need a good debriefing on all this blood moon stuff and family history.”

  Jared stood up and extended his hand. “You leave Reagan airport in two hours. We have a cab for you. More info in a folder in the cab. Who picks you up,
more intel, a secure phone. Use it to call Jill, but keep it brief.”

  Rube left the building and went to his car, removed his carry-on luggage, always packed, ready to go, turned his phone off after forwarding any calls that would come in to Jill’s phone, stuck it in the glove compartment, and turned his keys over to the cab driver who would have it in his locker when he returned, hopefully with his sister. And who knows, maybe the relic.

  CHAPTER 16

  PRESENT DAY, ISRAEL

  “Ms. Stevens, this is my wife, Sally Goldman. Sally, this is. . . ” Mr. Goldman paused and raised his eyebrows, “this is Tassel Lydia Stevens.” He gestured to Omar, “I guess soon to be Tassel Lydia Tugani. But she is the one named for our wonderful relic. And her fiancé, Mr. Omar Tugani.”

  Sally was short and blonde and exuded energy. She grabbed both of Tassie’s hands. “So delighted Miss Stevens. May I call you Tassel?”

  “Tassie, please.”

  “Tassie.” Sally pulled her closer and gave her a hug. “I understand our marriage is still intact because of you.”

  Tassie shook her head, wide-eyed. “Oh no, I just listened to your husband and asked a few questions.”

  “Well they were the right questions. And then to find out that you were Tassel of the relic. We had no idea. Well, I’m just delighted to meet you. Our daughter Josie will be disappointed she didn’t get to, but she’s at camp for a few days.”

  Omar smiled his engaging smile throughout, but Tassie could tell he was impatient. Her mind raced. Beads of moisture formed on her forehead.

  Sally looked at her and Tassie could see the question in her eyes. “Sally, could I get a drink of water?”

  “But, of course. Forgive our rudeness. Harvey why don’t you show Omar around while Tassie and I get some water.” She glanced at Omar. “Unless, you as well would like some water, Mr. Tugani.”

  Omar smiled. “Yes, yes, water would be good. I’ll come with you.” He followed Tassie and Sally toward what looked like the kitchen.

  Tassie’s heart fell. Okay, God, I need a time alone, so I can escape.

  The kitchen was small but well equipped. Tassie’s heart was warmed by the Goldmans’ welcome and their home. There were several little rooms connected in a haphazard fashion, with a garden and wooden trellis outside every window and door. Flagstone paths passed through the gardens such that you could just as easily go through a garden to get from the sitting room to the kitchen. Looking out one window she noticed a totally enclosed interior area that was a garden. She didn’t know why but she felt at home. The fragrance of lavender floated throughout the little home and she noticed it hung from the trellises and also lay crushed in bowls in each room.

  “We will have tea and a chilled drink with lunch in about an hour. If you would prefer that instead of water, you are more than welcome.” Sally looked Tassie straight in the eyes.

  Tassie wondered if she was just direct or if she was trying to discern what was going on. She allowed a plea to flow forth from her eyes followed by what she hoped indicated a warning to Sally to not ask with Omar in the room. The looks were but a split second, but they spoke volumes, as Tassie perceived understanding in Sally’s eyes.

  “Water is fine for me right now.” Tassie placed her hand lightly on Omar’s arm. “Darling, what do you prefer?” She batted her eyes at him.

  His smile back to her was more of a smirk, and Tassie was sure Sally noticed it.

  Thank God for discerning people. I sure am thinking about God a lot.

  “Yes, I’ll have water now as well. Thank you.” Omar nodded in thanks.

  Sally led them to the little inner garden, full of ornate benches, filtered light, and plants everywhere. Harvey was already there. Sally seated herself next to him and indicated another bench for Tassie and Omar. Tassie sensed Omar’s impatience.

  Omar took a few sips as Sally asked Tassie about their trip. Before Tassie could reveal too much, Omar interrupted. “I am amazed at the story of the relic for which my wonderful Tassie is named. To see it will be a thrill. Do you have it here?”

  Harvey clapped his hands and threw back his head. “Oh my, no.”

  Tassie could feel the iron in his arms as Omar tensed. She did not need to look at him to know there was fire in his eyes.

  Tassie took his hand in hers. “I don’t think either of us realized the great status it holds here in Israel. Will we be able to see it?”

  “Yes, yes, of course, yes. But it is under lock and key in a local museum.” Harvey rubbed his hands together. “However, I have the key, and will let you hold it. Tassel Lydia Stevens must hold the tassel in her hands. Now, you do know that it is sealed in a glass jar. It never would have survived without that. It is amazing that it has even survived intact within the glass, and that the glass has never broken. I do not doubt that God, blessed be His name, has blessed it or that He blesses all those who have possession of it.”

  Tassie felt Omar relax and she let go of his hand. She hoped to never hold that hand again.

  Omar took another sip of water. “Where did you find it?” He glanced at Tassie. “Wasn’t it lost for some time?”

  Harvey nodded. “Yes, it was stolen in 1949, recovered in 1967, and then lost again. Sally’s uncle, a rabbi, will join us for lunch and give you more information.”

  Small talk continued as the Goldmans showed Tassie and Omar around their home and multiple gardens. Tassie desperately wanted to get Sally alone so she could reveal her situation, but Omar managed to remain with Tassie at all times playing the love-sick suitor who reveled in her presence. Tassie sensed that Sally might see through the ruse but was not sure.

  They reentered the tiny dining area just as another guest arrived. Sally introduced him. “Here is my uncle, Rabbi Hermann Welcker.”

  A shiver ran down Tassie’s back as she heard that familiar HW name. Hector Woodley, Harry Woodson, and now Hermann Welcker. She turned slowly.

  He did not look just like Hector, but easily could have been related. He was short and slightly balding with tiny hair braids in the Hasidic Jew fashion. His eyes penetrated hers just like Hector’s had, and it unnerved her.

  Rabbi Welcker took Tassie’s hand in both of his. “It is more than wonderful to meet the young lady named for the tassel in the bottle. The tassel has encountered amazing adventures, some that we know and some that we know not. I hope to share some of those adventures with you, but first . . . ” Rabbi Welcker removed his jacket and laid it on a nearby chair. He turned toward Harvey and Sally Goldman, nodding only slightly toward Omar. “Have you had the news on?”

  “No, uncle, we have been greeting our guests. You need to meet Tassie’s fiancé, Omar Tugani.” Sally touched Omar with one hand and Rabbi Welcker with the other. The two shook hands and nodded kindly to each other.

  The Rabbi turned back to the Goldmans. “You must know what is happening. The Iraqi cities of Mosul and Tikrit have both been overrun by an offshoot of al-Qaeda. It’s the ISIS. They have stolen uniforms and weapons of the Iraqi National Guard and are moving toward Baghdad. The Balad airport is evacuating the American personnel. It is great trouble, but we knew great trouble would come. The blood moons do not lie.”

  Tassie saw a quick smile sneak across Omar’s face.

  Harvey put both hands on his head. “Oh, dear God, blessed be Your name, have mercy on us. I thank You the tassel of Your Presence is with us and You give us protection.”

  “What’s that?” Omar took a step toward Harvey. “You say the relic has powers?”

  Rabbi Welcker held up his hands. “Now, now, not powers. God, our Father, has all the power needed. But, yes, the ownership of the relic has coincided with the blessing of God and His protection on the countries or the people that have had it in their possession.”

  Omar changed the subject. “Is this trouble you speak of just in Iraq?” Omar’s voice sounded way too innocent.

  “No, ISIS is the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. So, this uprising is greatly supplied from Syr
ia. All the oil reserves are being affected.”

  “Not our oil, Uncle.” Sally began drawing the group toward the lunch table. “Let us sit and sup, before we continue our conversation.”

  A sweet soup was already at the table. As everyone quietly sipped the soup, Sally brought out cucumbers, avocados, hummus, and sourdough bread.

  “This is wonderful, Sally. Thank you so much.” Tassie smiled at her host.

  “Yes, very nice.” Omar looked at Sally. “Can you tell me what you mean about ‘our oil’?

  Harvey cleared his throat. “Well, yes, Israel has discovered oil and we are amassing means to get it out to the world.”

  “I suppose that will be helpful if Iraq’s oil is delayed with this latest development.” Tassie looked around, wondering if she really wanted to know all this.

  Omar’s phone beeped. Pulling it out he glanced at it. “That’s my news app. Had it off on the flight. The U.S. is offering support to Iraq and so is Iran.”

  The rabbi bowed his head. He spoke in Hebrew, then looked around the table. “I fear that by the ninth of Av we too will see this at our door, but then we have always lived in a rough neighborhood.”

  “Uncle, what do you make of all this.” Sally passed him the bread.

  “Trouble for Israel. It has always happened around the blood moons. We will survive and come out the better for it in the long run, but the short run will be trouble for Israel.”

  Omar narrowed his eyes. “What do you mean, Israel will come out the better for it?”

  “As you know, my friend, the countries around us would like nothing more than to totally annihilate Israel, and while they’re at it, they would like to get rid of the U.S. But now, not only are the insurgents flooding Iraq, but many of them are coming from Syria. The pipeline is being overrun. Turkey is getting involved. So, we have Iraq, Syria, Iran, Turkey, and who knows who else in turmoil. I wish our little relic could thwart what they do, but I know it is the power of God Almighty that will alone deliver us. It is God who keeps Israel. The road is often bumpy, too bumpy, but God, blessed be He, always causes us to survive.”