Calista reached for her claymore, but rather than pull it out and try it again, she just left her hand there. Then, something extraordinary began to happen. The sword began to vibrate and hum loudly. Calista was ecstatic. “The claymore’s power is back!” However, she soon realized the sudden vibration and humming of the claymore meant danger was upon them, and from the violence of the sword’s actions, that danger would be extreme.
Calista quickly laid her sword of power against Caprius. With her enhanced powers she drew a yellow light, which surrounded Caprius’ body and began to heal his injuries. He opened his eyes and looked right at Calista.
The timing was good, as from over a hillock, Calista spotted a pack of what seemed to be over twenty hungry Droges. She guessed they’d picked up their scent and were tracking them. The Droges came closer. Calista kept her hand steady on the sword. She’d gotten Caprius this far without having the Droges catch up to them, and she’d be dammed if they’d lose the fight now.
Caprius began to stir. Then, he slowly sat up. Calista held the sword of power away from him and was surging the light toward him, channeling her powers yet deeper. Caprius cleared his throat and stood. He slowly drew his sword of power and channeled his powers, immersing himself in the energy. Calista withdrew her sword, amazed to see the transformation. Caprius’ body emitted a bright white light.
The hungry Droges had started approaching the two knights, but at the burst of light, they scattered. A few kept on toward Calista, undeterred or perhaps starving. They ran their tongues over their fangs.
Calista turned and aimed her sword at them, pulsing fire and burning three Droges. She shouted at the rest as if they were dogs, “Back! Stay back!” Caprius released his hold on the sword, and the light faded away. He stood erect; his hair gleamed in the late day sun, his eyes were clear, and his wounds were gone. He saw the Droges who were again approaching in a large semi-circle, aimed his sword, and let fly an enormous flame that scorched all the Droges, the trees, and the landscape. Those Droges who could, fled back into the forest; all the others fell over and burned out.
Calista sheathed her sword of power and walked over to Caprius. Caprius sheathed his sword. They paused, staring at one another, then embraced, grateful and relieved to be alive.
“You saved my life, again,” said Caprius.
Calista laughed. “You know, you seem to be developing a habit of getting yourself into trouble.” She chuffed his arm.
He looked at her with new respect. “It’s ok; I know you’ll watch my back,” he smiled.
“At this rate, I may not be around the next time,” she said. “So, you be more careful! You scared the shit out of me!” she yelled in mock anger.
“I will. I promise,” he said, grabbing her and hugging her again.
“I guess we better put out the fires,” said Calista. “Not the trees’ fault we’re in this mess.”
Caprius and Calista turned, and with their powers, they brought forth an icy frost that doused the trees and put out the fires. They healed the trees and restored the landscape. “We have to get back to St. Basil’s Church. We must find something in Sister Mildred’s office,” said Calista. Now, in the direction of the setting sun, Caprius and Calista began the walk back to the village of Jethro.
They arrived at St. Basil’s Church. It was late night. They looked around to find an extension to the church. As they looked around, they came to a window. Caprius tried opening the window by sliding it up. “It’s locked!” But, as he looked at the frame in the middle, he saw a small clamp from the inside, which would unlock it. He grabbed his dagger of power. He channeled his powers and drew a cold frost at the top window frame. The top part of the window turned to ice and froze. Within seconds, the frost tingled against the window. Caprius put his dagger of power back to the side of his belt. With the palm of his hand, he broke the icy glass. He turned the knob and slid open the window. “Give me a hand Calista,” he said. Calista helped him in. When they both had entered the room, they were relieved. Calista went to turn on the light. “No, Calista. Dowse the light. Use your claymore of power to illuminate a soft blue light.” So, Calista did just that. The claymores were lit. “Here’s a desk.”
“Yes, but is this, indeed, Mildred’s office?” asked Calista.
“Let us see.” Caprius put his light of power to the desk. There he saw a picture of Sister Mildred. “Yes, this is her office. There’s a picture of her here.”
“You search the desk. I’ll search this cabinet. I’ll see what I can find,” said Calista. They both ruffled through items and papers. Twenty minutes had gone by, and they’d turned up nothing. “There is nothing but files and books in these drawers.”
“I’m done with this desk. There’s nothing here,” said Caprius.
Calista now opened up the bottom drawer of the cabinet. As she slid it open, there were files. “No. More files,” she said. She pulled the cabinet further out to the end. As she looked, her eyes caught a hold of something. There were small boxes of business cards. She looked at a card, which was taped to the box cover. “I found Sister Mildred’s business cards.”
Outside the church, in a small apartment building across the street, Sister Mildred looked outside her window. As she peered at the church, she looked to her office and noticed an illuminated soft light near the window. Her eyes began to glow a ruby color.
Calista continued to look through the drawer. She came upon another box of business cards. As she picked it up with her left hand, she looked at the card taped to the box cover. Her eyes widened, and she smiled warmly. “I think Sister Laura’s death will be justified,” she said.
“You found something?”
“Our prayers have been answered,” she said. She stood up straight holding the box of cards. She put her sword back in her sheath as Caprius came closer with his light of power. “I have here business cards pertaining to a clock shop in the outer part of Jethro. I am familiar with this street. Braden Clock Works on 267 Londale Road.” She smiled warmly, opened the box, and pulled out a few business cards. She put the cards in her pocket.
“This is probably the clock shop Enlora Renfield had information on,” said Caprius.
“Precisely,” she said.
“Well done, Calista. You certainly make a fine agent,” said Caprius.
“We’re all done here,” she said.
At that moment, the door crashed open, and a vampire creature of ugliness came through, which startled the two knights. Calista immediately used her inner power and drew the full stack of business cards, sending them flying by the hundreds at the vampire. Throwing the box, she drew her claymore of power, and both knights came at the creature. The creature drove her arm into Calista, and she went flying into the cabinet, knocking it over. Calista was dazed as she lay on the floor. She quickly got up to her feet. Using her great strength, she picked up the file cabinet with both hands. Caprius swung his sword, and the vampire creature backed away to the doorway. Calista through the cabinet at the vampire, and the creature was sent flying past the doorway into the hall. Caprius jumped over the cabinet heading toward the creature. As the creature was against the wall, Caprius drove his claymore of power into the creature’s stomach. The creature moved to the right, and Caprius’ sword drove straight to the wall. The point of the sword hit the wall, cracking the siding. The vampire swung his arm and hit Caprius, sending him tumbling down the hall. Caprius lost his sword, as it was stuck in the wall. Calista walked onto the cabinet, coming down to the hall swinging her sword. The creature took Caprius’ sword, pulling it out of the wall, and blocked Calista’s swing. Calista and the creature fought swinging their swords. Caprius, who lay away from them on the floor, got to his feet. He was defenseless without his claymore of power, with only the dagger by the side of his belt. Caprius thought quickly. He looked to the wall to see a fire hose inside a glass covering. With his fist, he smashed the glass. He had cut himself. He unwrapped the hose quickly. At the end of the hall, not too far away,
was a large crucifix about four feet in length, which hung on the wall. Caprius turned on the water full force. “Calista move!” he yelled. Calista jumped back into the office. The force from the water pushed the vampire creature to the end of the hall. The creature hit the large cross on the wall. Caprius took another smaller crucifix and threw it at the creature. With the combination of water and the cross, the water became holy water. With the power of God driven from the cross and the holy water, the creature began to shrivel and smoke. The creature was driven with rage and screamed. Calista walked out of the office with her sword in hand and watched as the creature had its back against the large cross with holy water gushing at it. Caprius continued to spray the vampire. Minutes later, the vampire creature was nothing more than a shriveled-up corpse. Caprius turned off the water from the hose. The creature fell on top of the smaller crucifix onto the wet floor. The hall was filled with water.
“That was sure quick thinking,” said Calista. “But, I don’t think the church representatives will be happy with the damages.”
“Remind me to make a large donation to the church when we get back to Elysium,” said Caprius. Caprius walked over to pick up his claymore of power. He looked at the crucifix on the wall and made a sign of the cross. He walked over to Calista. “Now, we have a clock shop to visit,” said Caprius. He began to walk down the hall, which lead to the entrance of the church.
Calista looked at the crucifix and made the sign of a cross. “Sorry, my Lord. All evil must perish.” Calista and Caprius walked down the church isle. A large cross hung behind the altar. They walked down the pews and headed toward the doors.
Chapter 17
Down and Out at Quigley’s
Melina sat in bed eating her food, which was laid out for her upon a tray. She still hadn’t gotten her appetite back, as she fidgeted with her food. “Melina, you must eat,” said Sandra.
“I am not hungry,” said Melina.
“Melina, please. You’ve eaten very little these past days,” she said.
“Maybe later on. Not right now,” said Melina.
Sandra began to take the tray of food in hand. “Very well. I can’t seem to win with you. But, we’ll try again later. If Caprius were here, he’d spoon feed you.”
Melina got comfortable in bed. “Yes, Caprius,” she muttered. “That name is beginning to sound familiar.” Melina glanced over looking at the alcoholic drink at the far end of the night table. “Sandra, I want to be alone now.”
“Oh, you’d like to sleep. It’s no wonder. That’s all you’ve been doing these past days,” said Sandra. “I will be back to check on you in an hour.” Sandra walked out of the room closing the door.
Melina gazed at the pink lady at the far end of the night table. Then, she turned away and looked at the ceiling. She marveled at its beauty. There were painted heavenly angels upon the golden ceiling. She gazed back at the alcoholic drink. She lifted herself up and sat on the bed. She got to her feet and walked over. She slowly picked up the glass in hand staring at the drink. “Yuck, it is warm,” she said as she began drinking it. She took sip after sip. Suddenly, flashes of memories penetrated her mind. She saw images of Caprius. “I know this man,” she said. Melina drank down the entire drink. She set the glass down on the night table. Then, she got back into her comfy bed and pulled up the covers. She thought about the man Caprius.
***
In the garden of Meadow-lie, Confidus strolled along the garden trails with Fetrona. He’d become concerned about her wellbeing and thought it wise to take the time to talk to her about her relationship with Andromin. Although Confidus knew her well and had a certain affection for her, he did wonder whether she was right for his son. In fact, Andromin had returned to Elysium two hours prior and told Confidus of his decision to end his relationship with Fetrona. He wanted to let his father know first. Andromin was being cowardly and requested that his father tell Fetrona it was over between them. Confidus didn’t want to be the bearer of such news, but he was able to see his son was suffering.
“I don’t understand, Confidus. Why did you drag me all the way out here? What is it you had to tell me so urgently?”
Confidus put his hand on Fetrona’s shoulder. “Andromin has returned from his vacation.”
“Andromin’s back! Where is he? I can’t wait to see him,” she said.
“Yes, well, Fetrona, it seems Andromin has come to a decision,” said Confidus.
“I knew it. He misses me,” said Fetrona excitedly.
Confidus looked at the ground. He felt dreadful. “Not exactly. My son, as much as he has always loved you, it… apparently it wasn’t enough for him.”
Fetrona stopped walking. “What did he say?” she demanded.
“Andromin feels like your constant accusations that he’s got feelings for Calista have worn him down. He feels nothing but friendship for her, you must know that, but now he feels exhausted from having to defend himself.” Confidus paused. “For what it’s worth, I can assure you, he’s telling you the truth.”
Fetrona sneered. “Sure he is.” She crossed her arms over her chest. “So, what, he’s breaking up with me?”
“Not exactly,” said Confidus.
“Then, what’s happening here,” she asked. “I don’t understand.”
“Andromin simply feels you two should spend some time apart so you can come to terms with this situation. Until you do and understand that Calista is just a friend, he says the two of you cannot be together. But, if you are willing to give each other time and the benefit of the doubt, then there is hope for reconciliation,” Confidus drew in a breath and continued. “He wants you to know you are welcome to see other men. Andromin only wishes for you to be happy.”
“Oh, so that’s it. It is not Calista, but he wants to see someone else. He’s been cheating on me!” Fetrona shouted.
“No, Fetrona, you’re not listening. Please try and understand,” said Confidus.
At this, Fetrona exploded. “Why is it Andromin couldn’t tell me all this himself? Is he such a coward he couldn’t face me?”
“No, he did want to tell you. But, he knew his decision would get you upset, and your temper is quite legendary,” chuckled Confidus. Fetrona was now steaming, her face red and puffy. “Now, now, dear, you know I’ll always care for you and you’ll always be considered part of this family. But-”
“I’ve heard enough! Frankly, I don’t think I want to be part of the Seaton family anymore!” she shouted. Fetrona stormed out of the quiet wood, leaving Confidus alone. He felt sorry. She might have had her moods, but over the years, she’d grown on him rather like a daughter.
Hours later, down at Quigley’s pub, Andromin sat at a table enjoying drinks, discussing the spread of Goncools over the land. Though they had not exterminated all of the Goncools, they had seriously crippled their forces. This gave the Seatons good reason to feel optimistic. “Yes, now that we’ve destroyed the Goncools’ key members, it will be hard for them to regain their footing,” said Andromin gleefully.
Several members of Confidus’ council came into the pub and joined the Seatons at their table, taking chairs beside Andromin. “I don’t know, Andromin. I think the lot of you is being naïve. You know very well that the other Goncools are just as dangerous. I don’t plan to sleep soundly until we have exterminated if not all of them, then at least the vast majority,” said Vijas.
“Vijas is right. It isn’t over until they have been wiped out. They will be out for revenge now. Who knows what their next move might be,” said Senator Marcus, looking pensive.
“Yes, and did you stop to consider those who escaped from Zaderack prison? They should have found their way to Elysium by now. That would have been their first stop. But, where are they?” asked Vijas.
“Hmm,” said Andromin . “No sight of them in Elysium,” he muttered, ashamed to admit he had forgotten about them.
“Andromin, I’m surprised at you. You’re usually much keener at sniffing out the rats,” said Vijas.
Andromin didn’t like being singled out. He drained his glass. “Yes, you’re right, you’re right. But,” he lowered his voice to a whisper, “my gut tells me we’re in for a rough ride,” said Andromin.
Vijas began to laugh. “Speaking of rough rides, I think you’re in for one yourself, Andromin. Look who just walked in,” he said, pointing. Fetrona, her face purple, was headed right for their table.
Andromin turned to look, then whipped his head back around and sank in his seat. “I’ll never hear the end of it,” he muttered. “Do you think I could sneak out?”
“Too late,” said Vijas. Andromin sank lower, trying to hide.
Fetrona came to the table. “Well, well, fraternizing with the men of the senate, are we?” she asked. “Gentleman,” she turned to Marcus, “don’t you wish to sit with other men, rather than with boys?”
“Fetrona, please,” said Vijas. He squirmed in his chair.
“Or, should I say, cowards!” She raised her voice. “That is exactly what you are, Andromin, a great big coward. You couldn’t tell me yourself that we were through? You had to get your daddy to say it for you?” Marcus and Vijas kept silent. “You’re nothing but a spineless bowl of jelly!” She began to cry. “You don’t even have the balls enough to give me the courtesy of a proper goodbye.”
On the other side of a low wall by their table sat a group of men who were listening to the yelling and watching Andromin and Fetrona like a tennis match. These four Goncools were dressed in Elysian uniforms, keeping them well hidden from the Elysian guards. One of the Goncools leaned in to his compatriots. “Gentlemen, I think were about to have our ace in the hole,” he said with great relish. The others laughed.
Quantum Heights: Book one of the Dead Path Chronicles Page 23