by Sonya Bria
Connacher! He was a vengeful demon. Ian wasn’t scared of Connacher; he was just like him. It was his Druid that sent chills down his already-cold spine. He’d hid Sophie this long from Connacher and Cathbad’s clutches. That was his task. Falling in love with her, that was a problem.
Ian finally found Carmichael in one of his favorite pubs. Sliding into the booth Ian said, “Finally give, up old man?”
Carmichael sighed, “What do you want, Ian?”
Ian congenially asked, “Buy you a pint?”
Carmichael shot back, “You say that like we are old friends. I don’t like drawing unnecessary attention to m’self. I’ve got a good gig here in town.”
Ian looked around and noticed the drum of the pub had trickled down at his arrival. One waitress finally had courage enough to bring pints over. “Carmichael, are you not going to introduce us?” she said flirtatiously.
“Friend,” Carmichael mustered, “more like a nuisance. Fiona Cameron, Ian,” Carmichael said, sweeping his hand in Ian’s direction. “She’s made it her mission in life to watch over me.”
Fiona passed a knowing glance at Carmichael. “Luv, waiting on you is the highlight of my night. Now play nice,” she shot back, then wound her way through the crowd back to the bar. Clearly, she was fond of the old man.
“Want to explain?” Ian asked curiously.
“None of your business,” Carmichael snapped..
Ian chuckled. “Okay, I need a favor. Information,” Ian said, getting back to the reason he’d left Sophie all alone. He was on borrowed time so to speak.
“What sort of information?” Carmichael asked.
“How to contact the guardians.” Ian waited for the answer he was expecting.
“Are you crazy? Why would you want to provoke them? Wasn’t last time enough, or has your brain gone all addle-like in the States?” Carmichael said, trying to reason with him.
“It’s complicated.”
“It’s that girl, isn’t it? The one you pissed off Connacher with?” Carmichael shook his head in disbelief.
“Yes, but you know she’s not a child anymore, and she has a name…Sophie,” Ian tersely replied.
Carmichael paused in his tirade. “You idiot! Didn’t you learn anything from me?” he spat in disbelief.
“Look, this isn’t just about me. I need to know how to protect her from me,” Ian said defensively. “I know what happens. I’ve seen it. Cathbad made sure of that, but I don’t want it to happen.” Silence ensued. “Are you going to help me or not?” Ian asked in frustration.
Carmichael contemplated his request as he chugged his beer. He finally replied, “I’ve heard that one can seek them by the Cliffs of Moher overlooking the bay.”
“Thank you,” Ian said earnestly.
“Don’t be a fool boy. They are more soulless than you or I,” Carmichael warned.
“I have to try. I owe her that much,” Ian stated.
“You won’t find what you seek,” Carmichael vowed.
Ian hadn’t been in Ireland in over ten years. The cliffs were pretty much unchanged if you discounted the new visitors center and parking lot. The jagged, sudden sheer drop into the ocean floor from the plains was breathtaking and timeless, carved by the hands of gods. How fitting to find the guardians at home in such a place. He’d walked here often—Galway. His home.
Ian paused a moment in reflection of a life lived long ago. Only a few tourists remained scattered around, snapping pictures of the setting sun. A soft mist rose from the ocean as Ian gracefully picked his way down one of the cliffs’ many hidden paths toward the caves. Carmichael was right, Ian thought. He could sense their presence stronger here. They were beckoning him, daring him to seek them out. Guardians were fickle creatures. Humanity was of little consequence to them now. The only time they lowered themselves to be among humans was when it suited their purposes. The guardians’ sole purpose was clear—balancing nature. It was their only delight. Preserving nature, harnessing it. Humanity was a means to an end for them. Ian shuddered. They could be so perverse, and they thought vampires were the lowest form of life.
“Deirdre!” Ian shouted above the roar of the waves crashing below. “Deirdre! Show yourself. I know you can hear me!” A swift wind pushed him closer to the edge than he liked. He pushed back. “You’re going to have to do better than that Deirdre.” She was taunting him. The mist turned wicked, and tiny drops like sharp blades sliced his skin. He couldn’t control the elements, but he could temporarily manipulate her mind.
Everything ceased. Deirdre sat before him, flaming red hair cascading all about. Her eyes were aglow with something akin to anger. “Why do you seek me out, vampire?” Deirdre questioned impatiently.
Ian stood his ground. “I’ve come about Sophia. I need to know if her future is set or if I can change the course of it.”
Deirdre thundered, “You question our foresight?”
“Yes!” Ian shouted back. “I’ve seen it too, remember? But my premonitions at the moment are a bit clouded,” he exclaimed.
“Could it be because you’ve foolishly fallen in love with her?” Deirdre chided smiling. Ian hedged. Deirdre clucked her tongue as a mother would a disobedient child. “Ian, it has never been up to you to determine Sophia’s fate. She alone has the power to decide which path to take.”
“But both end badly!” Ian felt desperate now. “What kind of choice is that? How can you give me sight if not to guide her and change what is to be?” he pleaded.
“Have you not listened?” Deirdre roared. Her voice carried over the wind and the ocean. “This is a quest only Sophia can journey on. You are merely the means to an end—helping her reach this point in her existence. Whether she chooses to take you with her or not, that is her decision,” Deirdre said with finality in her voice.
“How can the guardians be so cruel? You so cruel? You loved once. Have the centuries without Naois turned you this spiteful?” Ian spat out.
“You vile, soulless creature! If you were not vital to Sophia’s path, I’d strike you down now, crushing you into a thousand tiny pieces. How dare you speak of things you do not know of?” Deirdre hit him not only with the force of her words, but the force of her aura. It burned Ian’s skin to be in her presence; it reminded him of Sophie in the forest. He persevered.
Deirdre momentarily reflected over his resolve. It was strong; she had to give him that. “This only can I tell you…your fate lies with Sophia. She has already been confronted by one raven. This is only the beginning of her battle. She is strong, but stronger with you. I see only now what the others allow me to see, but I feel…conflict among the guardians.” With that Deirdre was gone.
Ian sank to the ground allowing the cool ocean mist to cool his burning skin. His journey had been in vain; the guardians were useless and would not help. I need to get back to Sophie, Ian thought. He couldn’t accept that such a priceless gift given to him would be ripped away without a fight.
HARMONY
Friday nights at the library were typically family nights. Part of my job entailed leading the story-time hour. It was probably my favorite part about working at the library. I loved to see the kids get excited about books and reading. But tonight I was feeling unsettled. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Maybe I was coming down with a cold? I’d been burning the midnight oil cramming for exams.
I quickly tackled the children’s section and reshelved the books strewn around the tables. It looked like a hundred little whirlwinds had attacked the place. I was amazed that there was still some semblance left that the books were alphabetized! “There done,” I said, placing the New Adventures of Scooby-Doo in its proper place. “We’ll see how long that lasts.” I really felt a strong urge to quicken my pace and leave. It was as if someone or something was trying to get me to hurry. Ian? It had to be.
“Mrs. H., I’m getting ready to leave for the night. Is there anything else I can do?” I asked, putting on my jacket.
“No dear, I’ll lock up. Can I
give you a ride home?” Mrs. Hewitt asked.
“I noticed that sweet boy hasn’t been hanging around here lately.”
Did I mention she could be nosey? “That’s okay,” I said. “It’s a beautiful night, I’ll walk. Goodnight.”
It was darker than I thought, and I hesitated for a second. Maybe I should get a ride. I shook my head and against my better judgment, I decided walking would be better than having to answer Mrs. H.’s questions about Ian. I dug my hands deeper into my pockets and started briskly walking up the street toward home. I wasn’t even sure where I stood with Ian. I felt a little rejected to say the least. No calls in two days. Okay, did I seriously expect him to call? How needy was that! But a quick jump into my mind would have been nice to know if he was okay. I was starting to get anxious again. Maybe he was purposely staying away to give me space.
I reached my house safely and headed inside.
“Grams, I’m home.” My voice carried in the empty room. “Grams?” I walked into the kitchen, flipped the switch on, and saw the note tacked to the fridge:
Sophie,
Gone to bingo night with Mr. Jamison next door.
There’s a plate in the fridge for you.
Love, Grams
I smiled. At least one of us had a social life. I put my dinner in the microwave and headed upstairs to change. I’d had it with studying and decided vegging in front of the TV sounded like a good idea. There was a package lying on my bed. I knew in an instant it was from Ian. I anxiously sat down and ripped the paper off. Inside was a card. It read:
I know I’m a little late, but may I still escort you tomorrow night? I missed you. —Ian
So like him. So antiquated and genteel. This was what it was like to be treated like a princess. Hands trembling, I lifted out the most gorgeous dress I had ever seen. Yards of soft, luscious green chiffon spilled out over my lap. It was the perfect hue to compliment my eyes. I was dying to try it on. I slipped out of my clothes and slid it over my head and down my shoulders. Ian had great taste. I twirled in front of my bedroom mirror. It had an empire waist with a delicate velvet bow. The bodice was form fitting and cut low. Let’s just say it accentuated certain attributes that I possessed. Hmmm. I wonder what Ian was thinking. I smiled. Wow! I was completely giddy. I had never felt so elegant. It was perfect. I blushed thinking about Ian and picking out a dress for me. I played with my hair. Up? Down? I was so engrossed in feminine wiles that I didn’t see him behind me.
“Do you like it?” Ian asked.
I jumped in surprise. “Ian, you’re back!” Relief washed over me as I jumped into his awaiting arms, smothering him with kisses. “I love it! Thank you so much, I have been going stir crazy without you here.”
Ian laughed, “I guess you did miss me.”
Our eyes locked with desire for one another. “More than you know.” Ian was hungry. I could see it, feel it. It wasn’t just my blood that he was lusting for, but for me. The feeling was so intense and mutual. I’d never wanted something so much. I couldn’t tear my eyes from his glorious face. Neither of us spoke. There was an electric current flowing and buzzing around and between our bodies, uniting and harmonizing. This is what Grams meant about harmony. One of us had to be strong. I didn’t think we’d survive this moment.
“Ian,” I pleaded. He didn’t say anything. “Ian,” I insisted, “you are hungry. Please go hunt and then come back.” My own stomach growled, and I attempted to make light of our current dilemma. “Apparently, I’m hungry too.”
The spell was broken and Ian was out the window in a flash—his words trailing behind him, “I won’t be gone long.”
I sank on my bed, my head in my hands. I was trembling. This was going to be harder than I’d thought. Quickly, I changed into PJs, hung the dress over my chair, and ran downstairs to eat. The energy flow between us had left me famished.
***
Ian was disgusted with himself. He’d been gone two weeks and not around Sophie’s scent. How was it that he craved it more now? He hated showing that side of him to her. He saw her fear, and he didn’t want Sophie to ever look at him like that again. Like a monster. Her eyes were different though—they glowed. She wanted him too. He’d felt the connection and energy. Ian shook his head. Even after seeing him mentally devour her for blood. It should have been enough to make him soar. Sophie was truly amazing. He didn’t deserve her.
Ian quickly bounded after a doe—easy prey, but he couldn’t stand to be away longer than necessary. He attacked in one swift move, throwing the doe to the ground, its bones crushing as he sliced the neck with his teeth and drank freely. He was glad Sophie couldn’t see him right now—it was revolting. He wiped the blood from his mouth, feeling pity for the poor animal he had just decimated.
***
Sophie looked up from her plate in the kitchen. Ian was leaning against the door jam. “I hate when you do that!” Sophie smirked. “You’ll have to teach me how you sneak up on me.”
Ian teased, “I have to keep some secrets from you, or you’ll soon lose interest in me.”
I hardly doubt that, I intentionally thought for the both of us. “Come sit with me, I was going to watch TV. I’m tired from the little rugrats at the library.” I dragged Ian with me into the family room.
“Was the circulation desk too much?” Ian asked, mocking me.
“Yes,” I said dramatically. “I’ll have to probably change jobs soon; I can’t handle the stress,” I added, flinging my arm across my eyes and sinking into the couch cushions.
“Oh brother,” Ian rolled his eyes and sat down on the opposite end of the couch. I frowned. “I don’t bite you know.”
“I do though.”
I ignored that comment. “Were you able to hunt?” I asked in earnest.
“Yes, but I’d rather not talk about it. How about something more pleasant.” Ian shined that gorgeous smile of his my way. “What’s the plan for tomorrow?” he asked.
“Have you been to a high school dance before?” I inquired. “You do dance? Right?” I scooted closer to him on the couch. “We don’t have to go if it will bother you,” I added.
“No, tomorrow is about you,” Ian said.
“Okay, as long as you’re sure…” I trailed off.
Sophie. Ian entered my mind. Let me do this for you.
“Oh, all right,” I smiled. “I’ll leave the details to you. Surprise me,” I said with a twinkle in my eye.
“Your grandmother is home,” Ian said before the car rolled into the driveway. “Should I leave?” he asked.
“No, Grams would like to see you—I’m sure,” I tentatively said.
“Okay, then I’ll stay, but only for a little while.”
“You’ll come back later?” I asked a little bit too anxiously.
“Sophie, I don’t think it’s a good idea given what happened earlier. I didn’t hunt enough,” Ian explained.
“Oh,” was all I could muster. I didn’t want him to feel my disappointment. I’d been looking forward to…
Sophie! I see where your thoughts are headed—it’s not a good idea right now. Ian stressed the “right now.”
I know, I replied huffily. This is so frustrating! The key turned in the lock. “Hi Grams.”
“Hi honey. Oh, hello Ian. What a nice surprise, you’re downstairs for a change,” Grams said brazeningly.
“Hello, Mrs. Flynn,” Ian said as he stood.
“Oh, Ian we’re old friends, just call me Grams.” I had never loved my Grams so much as I did at that moment. She was the best. “So, do I want to know what you two have been up to tonight?” Grams asked as she sat in her easy chair.
“Nothing much,” I lied. “Ian just got back and bought me the loveliest dress! Wait till you see it,” I beamed.
“Sophie invited me to the dance tomorrow,” Ian chimed in.
“Oh yes, how could I forget; it’s a good thing you got back when you did. Sophie’s been going stir crazy,” Grams said, offering way too much information for my l
iking. “I’ll be out tomorrow too,” she added.
“I should be worried about you,” I teased. “You’re spending an awful lot of time with Mr. Jamieson. We might have to reinstate a curfew around here.” Ian laughed out loud. I loved it when he laughed. He seemed so relaxed even though I could tell he was still tense about what had happened earlier.
“Well, this old gal needs some sleep,” Grams said rising. “Don’t stay up too late.” She bent down and kissed my cheek. “Ian, it was nice to see you my boy.” She reached down and hugged him. I’d never seen Ian look so shocked. I was having a hard time suppressing my giggles. Oh that was precious! I said, entering his mind. I about fell off the couch laughing.
“Come here you,” Ian said, grabbing me. I was truly happy at this moment. It was so nice to be ordinary. Ian tucked a stray strand of hair behind my ear and kissed my nose. We simply stared at each other. Words were not necessary to convey what we both felt.