When they hit the open seas, Brigid opened the throttle and the sound of the engines was deafening. Adelais signaled they could get up. It would be a short trip.
~~~
Philippa was pacing up and down on the dock, then stopped. She could hear the boat well before she could see it. Celeste had stationed herself under a palm tree, sitting with folded hands, eyes out to sea.
At last the throttle came down and the boat coasted to a stop at Celeste’s dock.
Luisa’s attention was elsewhere. In the distance a woman cradling an automatic weapon was standing at the edge of the bush. Luisa nodded and waved her away. The woman turned and disappeared into the bush.
Chantia jumped off and walked slowly toward Philippa. She smiled and stopped just short of her.
Philippa’s anticipation was clear. “Welcome home, Avery.”
A huge smile broke across her daughter’s face. Slowly she closed the distance and then fell into Philippa’s arms. She raised her head and said, “It’s Chantia now.”
Chapter 55
Choice and Clarity
Turks and Caicos
Dinner was subdued. Chantia talked quietly with Philippa while the others listened. “I understand now.” She looked over to Celeste. “Yes, I understand about ordained. There’s choice and sometimes there’s no choice. I had to leave so I could accept this choice.”
Celeste raised her head, which had been bowed as if in prayer. “When you’re ready in the morning, there’s a place I want to show you.”
Softly Chantia said, “Whenever you wish, Celeste.”
Later in the evening Chantia took Philippa aside. “I have a question.”
Philippa smiled. “I’m not sure how to read that look on your face.”
Chantia hesitated. “And I’m not sure where to begin. It’s been on my mind, but other things kept getting in the way.”
Philippa waited.
“This is a little embarrassing,” Chantia said, “but I guess I need to ask my mother about it. There’s something that happens with Beck. We start making love and it becomes more than passion. It’s like we melt into being one. I draw him in and he tells me it feels as though he’s sinking into me spiritually.”
Philippa took her hand. “You’re among the fortunate ones, Chantia. Can I assume that you can also say that your first experience with Beck was very, very positive?”
“Oh, I loved it—and he seemed to feel it too. In fact, he said I had bewitched him.”
“I’m not surprised. Just from your appearance and your manner I would have assumed you are of the Mysterium.”
“What do you mean by my appearance? What is Mysterium?”
“To put it simply, Mysterium is the extraordinary power of women. And it’s your rich, dark hair, dusky complexion and blue eyes that tell me about your depth of it.”
Chantia frowned. “And what does that mean?”
Her mother smiled. “Why do you think men fear us so?”
“I’ve never understood it,” Chantia said.
“We do bewitch them. We draw them to us and into us, literally and figuratively. Terms like captivating are used. It’s part of our nature to enhance the bond in all ways. Then comes the miracle only a woman can create—a child. Many men fear us because of that thing they can’t do and they also fear a loss of power when they’re having sex.”
“Why can’t it just be shared passion and happiness?”
“It can when the couple achieves true partnership.”
Chantia pondered as Philippa waited.
“There’s more, Chantia. The powers associated with the Mysterium can be effective defenses for the women who are truly Mysterium. As I said I suspected you were Mysterium from your dark hair and complexion, but there are Mysterium women with other appearances. Brigid is Mysterium.”
“Really? Red hair and all?”
“Yes. And she is conversant with another power of the Mysterium, which you probably have not experienced. Traveling within each of us is a spirit of the opposite sex. In men the spirit is called the anima. She may be anything from a loving companion to a harridan. Powerful women of the Mysterium may empower a man’s anima. As for Beck, I suspect his anima is a loving creature and enhances your relationship.”
Chantia stared at Philippa for a moment then drew in a deep breath. “Oh my God, Philippa. I think I know that. Once I was in a primitive village, and a man cornered me. I thought I was going to be raped. Somehow I saw something in him, and it was as if there was a woman there who was my ally. She almost tore him apart. It’s so hard to describe. I had almost forgotten it.”
“More confirmation, Chantia. You’ll share this with Beck?”
“Could he be frightened?”
Philippa smiled and shook her head. “Knowing Beck, I think not.”
Chapter 56
Transit Point
Turks and Caicos
In the very early morning Chantia lay in Beck’s arms anticipating the day.
“Are you afraid about your day with Celeste?” he asked.
“Not a bit. And you?”
“A little disoriented. This feels more like I’m the bystander.”
Chantia sat upright. “There’s something I have to tell you.” Chantia minced no words in telling Beck about the Mysterium.
She couldn’t immediately read his reaction. “I know this is just one more thing to try to deal with. But never, never feel I’m anything but in love with you. I just want it all out in the open. Overnight I understood perfectly. For me, for us, this is about our partnership. We just had to find our way to it. All I can see is this moment, the wonder, the adventure of it all.” She paused. “But I worry about us.”
Beck could feel Chantia’s hope and anticipation. And fear.
“Don’t be afraid,” he said. “This clarifies what I’ve experienced. I suppose some men might be afraid, but in you it’s something to be treasured. I love you just that much more.”
She exhaled in relief. “I’m still frightened, Beck. There are so many stories of how a man may react to a woman when she stirs him, uh, too deeply.”
Beck couldn’t restrain himself. He laughed and drew her closer. “Too deeply? What fools. Why would I want to give that up?”
Chantia studied his face. “I think that’s why I love you so much. I can be who I am and you love me for that.”
Beck was silent for a moment. “You seem to be anticipating something.”
Chantia’s eyes twinkled. “I’m looking forward to what Celeste is going to show me today. I don’t know what to expect, but I’m ready now. There’s a feeling of anticipation I don’t understand.”
They went to sit on the edge of the pool as they watched the first glow of sunrise. At last Celeste tentatively approached. “Chantia, there are things I’d like to show you. Will you come with me?”
Chantia studied her, then smiled. “You’re being cautious with me, Celeste. What should I wear?”
“We’ll be walking in the sun for over an hour. Make yourself comfortable.”
Chantia rose and said, “I’ll go in and change.” She gave Beck a knowing smile.
Celeste waited by the pool with Beck, exchanging pleasantries. When Chantia returned, nothing was said and Celeste motioned for her to follow. Chantia looked at Beck, cocked her head to one side and raised an eyebrow.
Beck watched them leave, then moved to a chaise. Shortly Philippa approached. “I worry you may feel left out. This is so much about Chantia. How’re you handling it?”
“Chantia and I have long talks. I’m feeling a little like an outsider, but she assures me that’ll pass.”
“Did you believe her?”
“Yes. Nothing’s going to come between us.” There was an emphatic edge to Beck’s voice.
In return Philippa’s voice was intense. “She has to be the focus right now. There’s more to come. I know this all seems to be about women, and as the only male here yo
u would surely feel the outsider. But there’s something very specific happening.” She hesitated.
“Philippa, go on. I think you’re answering a question I have.”
“You come from a Primal family and see that we often present one portrait to ourselves and another to others. To the world we may seem formal, but within our families we forge deep, personal partnerships. I won’t go into it now because it’s something that has to emerge and be experienced. And, in a larger sense partnership of all kinds is what our entire mission is really about.”
“I’m coming to understand that.”
“Beck, look at everything we do. We’re stewards for Gaia’s earth and partners with humankind. Suffering and driving people deeper into poverty is the way of predators. Instead we seek partnership at every level. She paused. “Your partnership with Chantia has helped you, and her, weather this storm. It’s lovely to see.”
Beck started to speak, but Philippa placed her fingers gently on his lips. “Now you have to step back and watch your darling woman blossom into her future—your future.” Philippa paused. “There’s another question, isn’t there?”
Beck nodded. “It’s about why we were brought together. I think you may not know the answer any more than I do.”
“You’re right. I don’t know the answer. In fact, I don’t even suspect. But what I find so special about you is that unlike so many men you’re accepting your position here and the ambiguity.”
“Quite honestly, Philippa, I don’t understand my reaction or lack of reaction. I feel an affinity and a purpose with Chantia. If you’re probing to see how I’m doing, don’t worry. Truly, I’ll let you know if there’s a problem. Right now Chantia is the center of attention and I’m happy she is. I understand we were meant to be together, so there must be purpose.”
~~~
Chantia and Celeste walked north across the island through the bush on a barely visible track. Farther along Chantia was surprised to see they were starting to walk uphill. It struck her as curious, since generally the land was flat. She stumbled and looked down. Not sand. Not coral. Rock.
“Celeste, I thought these were coral islands?”
“They are, and so mostly you see coral and coral sand. But just here there’s a point of the continental shelf. She gestured out to sea. “Out there the land falls away thousands of feet into the ocean. My Tethys called Hellenia is there.”
Chantia noted that the vegetation had become richer, as if it was feeding on substantive soil. They had to push their way through as they climbed the gentle slope.
“Ouch, that hurt!” Chantia drew back her hand.
“I should have warned you about the nettles. They strike without warning,” said Celeste.
“Strike?”
“Yes, they’re part of this place’s defense.”
Chantia planted her hands on her hips. “Defense?”
“The nettle has a mild hypnotic effect. You’re going to feel a little disoriented, but it’ll open you to the experience.”
“I’m not sure I’m appreciating this part of the experience.”
“The nettle protects this place because the strike can induce panic. It drives people away. This area is viewed with fear by many visitors, which is precisely what Tethyans seek in order to protect our secrets. Relax and accept the nettle’s gift as a small offering. You’ll find it will enhance your understanding of our people and the world as we experience it. Come ahead. There’s something I want to show you.”
Chantia felt as if she had a slight head from a fine wine. The track dropped down and shortly they stopped before a rock face sheltered by trees. In the face was a cave opening. Before the opening Celeste motioned for Chantia to sit with her on a ledge looking out to the ocean.
“This is a place of rest and contemplation for our people. Sometimes we must explore the road ahead as we leave our Tethys and sometimes resolve the forces we have experienced in the outer world before we return to our home and refuge in the sea. At these times spirits speak to us with wisdom and bring us comfort.”
Chantia sighed. “Like I feel right now. You chose the nettle for me, didn’t you? To help bring me to the meaning of this place.”
Celeste nodded.
Chantia looked around and held up her hand. “Celeste there’s something or someone near.”
Celeste nodded. “Yes, there is a presence. This is a spiritual place for preparation and restoration. It is also a place which is alive with energy.”
Chantia looked steadily at Celeste as if inquiring. “It’s more than just presence. I feel the need for contact.”
“Does it make you afraid?”
“No. Oddly. There’s a peace, but now it’s fading.”
Celeste took her hand. “I think we have met our purpose for today. Perhaps the time for the spirit is not yet. But preparation is made.”
Celeste indicated it was time to return. Chantia was deep in thought, but at last inquired, “And what’s tomorrow, Celeste?”
“Tomorrow we go into the sea.”
On the return, as they approached the villa, Chantia stopped and asked Celeste to go ahead. Celeste raised no question and left Chantia tending her own thoughts. She sat on the sand, her feet in a warm undulating ocean, feeling the caresses of the sea breezes. Peace and comfort at last but also a distant, insistent calling. At long last, she roused herself and returned to the villa. Beck was by the pool. She was sure he had been anxiously awaiting her return. Without a word, she pushed his legs over and sat down on the chaise.
She drew in closer and whispered, “This was an amazing day. It seems I absolutely had to come to this place. I’ll tell you all about it tonight.” Her eyes glistened with tears. “I’m sensing something wonderful to come, Beck.”
He reached out and drew her closer to him. She took his face in her hands as if confiding a secret. “I look forward to our time tonight but our passion has to wait.” She sat back and smiled. “I missed lunch and I’m starving.” She punched him lightly on the arm. “Then you’re in trouble.”
Chapter 57
Acceptance
Turks and Caicos
Celeste had conspired with Philippa and Beck to take time away the next day, leaving Chantia alone with her. They sat together by the pool with Chantia savoring the moment and the soft pulses of preparation.
At last Chantia turned toward Celeste. “You remember I told you about the music at night? Last night there was new music as I fell asleep and through the night. And there were dramatic but not frightening dreams.”
“How did it make you feel?” Celeste asked.
“ I woke up with a feeling of hope and anticipation.”
“Gaia was preparing you, Chantia. Are you ready now for our adventure?” Celeste reached out her hand. “Come join me in the palm grove by the sea.”
For the first time Chantia felt the true, deep warmth of Celeste, who so often seemed detached and enigmatic. No more. Now there was a connection. She took Celeste’s hand and slowly they walked toward the grove where they sat on a bench near the water.
Chantia turned toward Celeste. “Maybe I should stop asking, but I have to ask again. I’ve come to believe this is a beginning for me and our people. Do you know what this is the beginning of?”
Celeste’s concentration on the sea remained steadfast, as if she was responding to a call. Her face tightened. Suddenly she turned back toward Chantia who was amazed to hear her laugh softly.
“I didn’t know until just this moment. We know you are the Discoverer. Now’s the beginning of the long-awaited discovery.”
Chantia’s eyes widened. “I thought the discovery was about my discovering our people. You mean there’s more I’m to discover?”
Celeste took both of Chantia’s hands. “Your discoveries were signaling the beginning of the final unfolding. The Tethyans are beginning their discovery of the future of humankind.”
Chantia pulled her hands away. Her mouth
tightened. “That suggests a huge responsibility. How much of that burden do I bear?”
“Don’t mistake me. I’m saying we as a people. Your arrival and recognition of who you are signaled the beginning. This is not a burden for you. It’s a collective mission. What you’ve discovered and do discover are indicators of the process. You’re helping us recognize what’s happening. And I’m to bring you closer into the process.”
Chantia felt chastened. “So how much of this must you bear?”
“It’s simply a matter of who I am. I am Illuminata and bring clarity to the Tethyan people. The way forward will become apparent.”
Chantia fixed her eyes on Celeste. “It seems you’re telling me that the discovery leads me into the sea. I don’t know what that might mean.”
Celeste stopped for a moment, studying Chantia. “As the unfolding begins Tethyans will come to understand who we are. I believe you and Beck will each play a role. The sun is light and illuminates, clarifies, gives energy and direction. The moon is mysterious. It brings light as well, but is even more creative in the shadows, subtleties, and dreams it creates. It’s rich in feeling, passion, and depth. Together your partnership is in the service of our people. But, in the end, all that we are comes from the mysteries women are and what they create.”
“That gives us considerable responsibility for the mission.” Chantia said.
Celeste started to speak again but Chantia stopped her. “So I’m the Discoverer, and I’ll discover for many other people?”
“I wish I could present this to you in bits and pieces you could absorb more easily,” Celeste said. “Everything can’t be answered at once. Please bear with me.” Her tone was gentle and soothing. “Many Tethyans share feelings of heavy responsibility. None of us chose our position. Gaia leads us and gave us a gift to be stewards and benefactors for the people of the world and the planet itself. I didn’t choose the Illuminata and you didn’t choose the Mysterium. It’s who we are. The obligation is huge, but the gift is equally huge and fulfilling. It’s obvious that you have some important role to play.”
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