the hangman's noose

7/30/2019 The Hangman's Noose

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The Hangmans Noose

Chapter 1

PLAN A

Opening my eyes in my college dorm room the pounding headache that followed each

Ruby nightmare intensified each day as we got further ahead with our plans. Of course

they all thought I was nuts when the words Were going to wake up Ruby left my lips.All the same I had just performed my very first Samhain ritual without a hitch so now

when they think of me theyre thoughts are a mix up of impressiveness, intimidation and

worry. My family were proud of me and still are, so theyll have my back no matter

what. As for my two best friends, Dulcie an Empath and Matilda a Pagan in learning,they assured me theyd be there for me if I should ever need them.

I dropped out of classes because the dreams affected my waking life so it was disturbingto say the least. My college friends, Erin, Lee, Lexi and Drew, stopped by frequently tosee why I wasnt in class but my faithful vampire boyfriend, Riley, barely let them passed

the door, depending on what kind of day I was having. Whenever I suffered Riley too

suffered with me, if I was too scared to go to sleep hed stay up all night long with me.His loving gaze and the thought of waking Ruby were the only things that kept me going.

Another thought that scared me most was the fact that Christian had now been sighted in

Penn Gate. Drew who once roomed with him until he came home one night to find bloodon the floor asked for an exchange immediately. My fears were confirmed when Matilda

confessed she thought she was being stalked when she went to see Dulcies aunt Laura,

another Pagan, in New York City for her weekly class. Again she felt like she wasntalone in her rented loft room, in my Nanas house in Penn Gate, when she arrived to an

empty house. When investigating with Nana, Brian and Dulcie later they didnt find

anyone but one of her favourite blue shirts was missing from her wardrobe whose door

stood ajar.

Her fears chilled us both to the bone when I told her all about the vision I had of

Christian draining Matilda of all her blood. From then on she walked around with astake, holy water and silver chains in her bag. Nana was worried about how he managed

to get into the house without her knowing considering the amount of protection spells she

had around her home. She doubled then tripled the spells till her hearts content although

nothing could soothe Matilda except the insurance of a sharp, pointy piece of woodwhich was always close at hand.

Riley and I temporarily moved back to Penn Gate as we all readied ourselves to put ourfirst plans, to wake Ruby, into action. Wed gone over the layout of the hospital a

hundred times over until we knew it as well as the backs of our own hands. Wed located

all the security cameras that Id need to disconnect with my telekinetic powers and withthe help of our friend, Alexa Cain, a Witch and a nurse at Penn Gate Infirmary, we


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managed to identify which members of staff Rowanne would have to influence with her

special power of mind control. Alexa offered her help to unhook Ruby from all the

machines she was tied up to as well as any drips attached to her. We were ready andprepared for any unfortunate instances, like being caught by the doctors or security. So

why were we so nervous?

For three years my cousin had laid in a hospital bed, her life draining from her. We knewthat her coma was false and that someone had only induced the coma, for reasons

unknown, so all we had to do was get her away from the hospital and give her time for

the drugs to leave her system and then she should wake up. Hopefully. Was it the fear offailure that kept us from excitement? Fear our hopes would be dashed that we wouldnt

get our cousin back after all this planning? Plan B and Plan C were in place if we failed

today but could it really be possible to succeed? Or were we hoping for a miracle?

Stop fidgeting! Youre drawing attention to yourself. I said to Rowanne out of the

corner of my mouth.

I cant help myself, Im so anxious. she hissed back.We walked on through the shabby entrance and I flicked my hands to turn the security

cameras from our gaze. Every corridor we walked down I did this and Rowanne barely

touching any security staff influenced them to forget they saw us. Her powers grew

stronger all the time, now she barely had to talk to them or make eye contact. All she hadto do was touch and think of what she wanted them to do.

Alexa met us on the coma ward as Rowanne and I stepped out of the elevator together.Along the narrow corridor a small group of nurses stood talking to one another, blocking

the way to Rubys room, leaning against the reception desk for comfort. Rowanne

stopped several feet from them before placing her right hand on the wall and her left hand

on the reception desk. A few seconds later the nurses stiffened and walked off indifferent directions no longer blocking our path. Rowanne stood solitary for a moment

staring at her palms.

Cool! Didnt know I could do that. she exclaimed.

Continuing down to Rubys room we stopped at a corner as we saw a familiar looking

man enter the room with a frizzy haired nurse.I know who that is! Rowanne whispered.

I know, its Uncle Dexter.

I havent seen him for years.

Three years to be precise. I agreed.Good morning, Doctor Kerr. we heard the nurse say cheerfully.

Good morning, Felicia. No change? we heard him ask.

Im afraid not. Its a real puzzler, we just cant seem to figure out whats keeping her

asleep.As the young nurse left the room another tall fifty-something doctor in a lab coat entered

as she left. Good morning, Felicia. he said in a smooth voice.

Good morning, Doctor Brody. she said brightly. God, I love that tie.Oh, thank you. It was a gift from my daughter.


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How sweet! Have a nice day.

You too, Felicia. he knocked on the frame of the door. Hello, Dex.

Good morning, Doug. Dextersaid taking Dougs hand in his and smoothly passing aroll of dollars into Dougs grasp.

Youre killing me, Dex. Doug said looking down at the large roll of money in his hand

while mopping his brow.Our monthly deal. You keep my daughter sedated and Ikeep you out of debt. Dextersaid leaning on a walking stick.

I told you last month was my last. he said nervously looking around the room. I cant

do this any more, Dex. I told you on your last visit I no longer need your money.What? Now you have a conscience? For three years youve done this for me.

Look, at the time I started doing this for you I was desperate, in debt. But now, the child

will be eighteen soon enough.

Dont tell me about my child, I know full well how old she is.Yes,well, then youll notice she has aged these past three years, Dex. Weve both taken

three years of her life away from her.

Its for her own protection.Im certain she wont see it that way no matter how you put it, Dex.

If I have to be cruel to be kind then I will continue to do so. Please, Doug, one more

month and Ill find someone to replace you.

Doug sighed looking back at the fat roll of money again then to gaze upon Ruby. Onelast month.

Thats a sport. Did you bring the medicine with you?

Its in my office. Give me a minute to go get it.Youre not going anywhere. I said as Rowanne, Alexa and I jumped out to block the

doctor in the doorframe.

Yeah, we heard everything and youre going down. Rowanne informs Dexter.

Throwing my hands out both doctors flew into the corner chairs. I kept them both there

while Rowanne approached the doctor, whom Dexter had been bribing, she placed her

hand upon his shoulder.Tell us why you are here? she asked.

I get paid to keep Ruby asleep. he answered dreamily as his eyes clouded over.

Do you know why she has to stay asleep?Because some bad people are looking for her.

Anything else?

No, he always keeps me in the dark.

What would happen if she were to stop receiving these medicines? she asked.Shed wake up.

With no complications?

No, there shouldnt be. Shes very healthy, all thats keeping her in bed is the drugs.

Good. Now listen very carefully. Rowanne said making him meet her eyes. Youwont remember seeing any of us today.

I wont?

No, in fact you never saw Dexter today either. You came to see if he came today andwhen you saw he wasnt here you were relieved. In fact youll remember you received a


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message from him saying hed found someone else to do his dirty work for him, that you

were off the leash.

I am? he asked smiling.Yes, you were very relieved. Now you can get on with your life without having to

worry about Dexter and knowing that Ruby would soon wake up and be with her family

again.Thats good. he nodded.Youre going to check her out of this hospital and if anyone asks questions you tell them

she had a miraculous recovery.

I dont have to switch her results any more?Never again. Rowanne answered. As soon as you leave this room you wont

remember what happened here.

All I saw was Rubys miraculous recovery and her family taking her home. he said.

Exactly. You may go now.

Rowanne removed her hand and the doctor got out of his chair with a big grin on his face

as he left the room.What are we going to do about him? Alexa asked indicating Dexter.

He wasnt part of our plans. Rowanne answered.

None of us have seen him for years, we werent expecting to bump into him let alone

discover hes the one behind it all. I said still pinning him to the chair with my power.Youre coming home with us. I said nodding at him as he trembled. Rowanne, call

the boys, tell them to get some restraints out.

Will do. she said stepping aside to let Alexa unhook Ruby from all the drips andmonitors. Riley, she spoke on her cell, please be prepared for extracompany. Weve

found the culprit. she said ending the call.

As Alexa disconnected the last of the machinery I pulled Dexter out of his chair and tooka hold of his arm while gripping onto Rubys bed. The other girls took hold of my

shoulders as we teleported out to Nanas house. In the living room Riley, Leonard,

Brian, Willem, Faith, Nana, Dulcie, Matilda, Torsten and Lee waited for our arrival witha hard backed chair, ropes and chains.

Dexter! Nana cried out. No, its not possible.

We caught him trying to bribe one of the doctors to do his dirty work for him. Iinformed them.

By the sound of things theyve had their little arrangement for a couple of yearsnow.

added Rowanne.

And the other doctor? asked Brian.Hes taken care of. Rowanne answered. He never really wanted to take part in this, he

was just so desperate for the money.

We wont be hearing from him? Riley asked.

No, Rowanne lead him to believe that Ruby had a miraculous recovery and was reunitedwith her family. She even told him to check her out of the hospital for us.

We never saw this coming. We didnt think to plan for this. Nana mumbled.

We planned on how to capture the culprit if we should run into him but we werentprepared to find out he was Dexter. I comforted her. Winging it worked in the end.


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Now we just need to wait for Ruby to wake up. Alexa said.

Do you think youll get a decent night sleep now? asked Riley.

We still have to wait for Ruby to actually wake up though. I said not getting ahead ofmyself. When shes awake, maybe then, I can relax.

Brian, Willem and Faith tied Dexter to the chair removing him of his cell and any objectson him he could use as a weapon or to cut himself free with.Why would you do this? Nana asked when he was secured. How could you do this to

your daughter?

It was for her own safety. He said not meeting her eye. He slouched forth in his chair,his sandy coloured hair falling over his hazel eyes and sweat already beginning to stain

his tan polo shirt.

We want the truth, Dexter. Not some garbled version of it. she shook her head.

You believe him? I asked.I believe that he believes its the truth. she answered.

Oh, I see. I said, the penny finally dropping. Its too much of a coincidence, isnt it?

Ruby was in the car crash that killed my parents. You were very quick on the scene thatday to save your daughter, then mysteriously disappearing afterwards. You arrived

before the paramedics, Dexter. That car crash was no accident and you were in on it,

werent you? I said towering over him. You knew that they were attempting to kill off

some Witches. Oh, yes, you know all about us too, dont you? I shouted when helooked at me in surprise. It wouldve been easy for you to slip down to the crime scene

and resuscitate Ruby if you knew when and where the crash would take place. Youre

one of them arent you, Dexter?No way! Rowanne said covering her mouth.

Are you saying what I think youre saying, Bill? Brian asked.

Hes a Preacher. The room stayed silent. Go on, deny it, I dare you.

Im not one of them. he said timidly. They were my friends. They kept theiractivities to themselves till they heard about Sophia.

And how do you know about what we really are? asked Nana.

She told me. he said looking up at us all. She said she couldnt keep it a secretanymore.

And how did they find out? I said kneeling before him.

It was my fortieth birthday. You remember, we had a barbecue. Sophia and I had afight and the W word got dragged into it.

They were there? I asked enraged. Those men were at your party.

I didnt know what they were planning to do. They heard me fighting with Sophia and

they thought I was a Witch hater too. he cried. They told me they wanted them alldead, I pretended to play along. I pretended to be one of them so I could find out when

they were planning on hurting my family.

So you found out they were planning on taking out Ruby and my parents. Why didnt

you tell us?I couldnt alert any of you without drawing attention to myself. I was being watched.

Not all of them trusted me. I was married to a Witch after all.

But you got to the crash site, you saved Ruby. Why didnt you save our parents? Brianyelled.


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I couldnt, Im sorry. They were already gone. he whimpered.

Brian quickly pounced on Dexter, grabbing the collar of his shirt and shouted in his face,

It should be you in the ground, not them!Come on, Brian. Calm down. Said Riley and Willem as they pulled him off Dexter.

Get off me! he yelled before running upstairs to slam his bedroom door shut behind

him.We know you induced Sophia and Vincent into comas also. Where are they? I askedcalmly.

I will not tell you. They are safe, that is all you need to know.

Safe? Theyre sitting ducks is what they are! Leonard boomed.I wont tell you anymore. Dexter trembled.

Leonard roared and grabbed Dexter by the collar, like Brian had, and lifted him high in

the air. If you dont tell us where they areLeonard, let him go. I yelled furiously grabbing at his arm. With a manic glint in his

eye he reached out and shoved me into the opposing wall.

Are you all right? Riley and the others came to my aid.Oh, my back. I said as the pain shot up my spine.

Take it easy. Willem said taking the pain away. Youll be right as rain in a few.

Leonard turned his gaze on me and the crowd around me as Dexter dangles limply in hisgrasp. Leaping to my feet I threw my arm out wide before Leonard released our hostage

from his clutches as he went flying into the dining room wall.

If you cant control yourself get out! I shouted as he knocked his head against awooden unit.

Erm, Bill? Dulcie asked.

I turned to see Dulcie and Matilda standing a few steps away from the pile that was

Dexter on the floor. Dulcie was waving her hand around her nose while Matildawrinkled her own in disgust as she pinched her nose with her left hand. I thinkhes

soiled himself. Matilda said squeakily still pinching her nose.

Oh, god! Could someone please take care of him? Im going to take Ruby upstairsbefore I pick Riona up. I said putitng both hands on the metal rails of Rubys hospital

bed. Thinking of my bedroom I blinked to find myself exactly where I wanted to teleport

to. Dulcie, Rowanne, Riley, Matilda, Torsten and Lee came running up the last set ofstairs. Keep an eye on her, will you? I wont be in Salem long.

Chapter 2

OPEN EYES

I found Riona in her kitchen eating soup when I teleported into her beachside home in

Salem, MA. Just as she placed a piece of bread in her mouth she choked at my

appearance.Sorry, I didnt mean to startle you. I hastily apologised.

No, dont worry about it. How did you get on?


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We got her home just fine.

Oh, thats wonderful. she smiled brightly. Has she woken yet?

No, Ive got the others watching her just now. But I think youd better come with me.Why whats wrong? she asked concerned.

We caught the person who induced her into a coma.

WHAT!? she asked surprised. Who was it?I think youd better come see for yourself.Let me make a quick call. Its my shift at the shop this afternoon so Id better make sure

theres someone who can cover it if I dont make it back in time.

Sure, thats fine Ill call home to see if theres any change with Ruby.

Riona ran to her room to find her cell phone while I called home in Penn Gate.

Hello? Matildas voice called after answering on the third ring.

Shes not awake but she keeps twitching and she even muttered something.What did she say?

Were not sure. But it almost sounded like mother.

Mother?Hang on, talk to Faith theyre calling for me. she said before passing the house phone

on to Faith.

Hello? came Faiths bored drawl.

Faith, its Billie, what the hell is going on?I dont know. Ive been helping clean up your dirty uncle. Hang on, Ill poke my head

through.

I heard several yelps as Faith said, Guys, what the hell is going on?

Why are they screaming? I asked.

I scared em. I keep forgetting they dont all know that I have the power to walk

through walls.So what is going on? I asked impatiently.

Shes moving around a lot. May be you ought to get back here.

Ill be there in a minute Im just waiting for Riona to make a call.See you soon then. she said hanging up.

Riona! Weve really got to go now. They think Ruby is starting to wake up. I called

up to her.Coming, coming, coming. she said running downstairs.

I didnt even wait for her to get off the bottom step I just grabbed her wrist and teleported

us straight into my room where Ruby was writhing in her bed. The crowd in the roomjumped as Riona and I suddenly appeared before them.

Come on, Ruby. Were here, were not going to let anything harm you. Come on, you

can do it. I said taking her hand.

Ruby stopped wriggling and started breathing easier as her eye lids fluttered and foughtto open themselves.

Ruby, you can do it, said Nana.

Open your eyes. said Rowanne.Were all here. said Brian.


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Come on, girl. Open those beautiful eyes. Riona said, tears streaming down her face.

We love you, Ruby, and we believe in you. Come on, you can do it. I said kissing her

hand.Billie? she whispered.

Ruby!? I started to cry.

Mmm so hungry. she said turning her head to me.

Her eyelids fluttered one more time before they opened up to reveal her hazel coloured

eyes. Brian, Rowanne, Nana, Riona and I crowded around in happy tears as the others

silently sat in the background until Ruby was ready to be introduced to them.Ruby, can you hear us? Nana asked.

Yes, Nana. I can see you too. she giggled. Can you help me sit up?

As she leaned against us we helped lift her into a sitting position before resting her backon the pillows.

How do you feel? I asked.

Mmm thirsty. Im very dry and who are they? she asked looking at the eightpeople behind us.

This is um Riley. Hes my boyfriend.

Its nice to meet you properly,Ruby. he said friendlily.

She smiled. This is his sister, Faith, and his brother, Willem. Theyre Dad is justdown the hall. And these are my friends, Dulcie, Matilda and Torsten. Lee here is

family now. I said as they came closer to Rubys bed.

Were so glad youre finally awake. Matilda said shaking her hand.Yeah, nice to finally see those eyes at last. Dulcie added.

Dulcie youre the Empath. Ruby said staring straight at Dulcie. You were in the

hospital with Billie.

Oh my god, you remember? Dulcie asked shocked.Vaguely. she said looking around the room. Do they know ? she suddenly asked

Nana.

They all know, Ruby. Nana answered.About us too?

They know everything. I answered.

And you? she asked uncertain.Im a Witch, Ruby. I turned eighteen six months ago.

Why do they all know though? she asked arching a copper brow.

Its ok. said Matilda. Im a practising Pagan. Dulcies aunt Laura is teaching me their

way.Im a long story. Torsten snickered in his German accent.

Ive only recently discovered my magical lineage. Lee added.

Were different too. Riley added.

Different how?Were half human. Said Faith.

And half vampire. said Willem.

Their Dad used to know one of our ancestors. Josephine.She knows about Josephine too? Ruby asked Riona.


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Yes, dear. she answered.

What else have I missed?

Uh I have a bit of a confession to make. Rowanne added embarrassed. Im aWerewolf, Rubes.

So? Ruby asked impatiently.

What do you mean SO? Rowanne barked.Oh, come on, Row. Its not that big of a deal. How long have you been a Werewolf?Since I was four.

WHAT!?

I thought you said it wasnt that big of a deal?All this time and you never told us!?

Im sorry, okay? I really am. Rowanne cried.

Its okay. I didnt mean to yell. Ruby apologised. How long have I been in this bed?

Three years. Brian answered croakily.Three years since the crash? Hes kept me asleep all this time?

You mean you knew who it was all along? I asked.

My Dad. I dont understand why would he do that? she asked tearing up.Hes down the hall if you want to ask him. Riley said nodding in the direction of the

bathroom.

What about ?

What about what, Ruby? asked Nana.Wheres my Mom and Vincent? Wheres uncle Brendan and aunt Jessica?

Your Dad has hidden your mother and brother somewhere else. Remember, you

showed me? He wont tell us where.And Brendan and Jessica? They were in the car with me.

They didnt make it. I shook my head.

Oh my god. No! Im so sorry. she cried.

Its okay, Rubes. said Brian. You dont need to worry about it just now. Just rest,okay?

No, Ive been in this bed for three years. Ive rested enough. Help me up, please.

Just wait till we get Alexa in here. Shes a nurse, she can help.Alexa! Matilda yelled down the hall. Shes a moving, we need your expertise.

Im here. Alexa said flying into the room with her stethoscope hung round her neck

over her baggy blue scrubs.Shewants to get out of bed to stretch her legs.

No, food first. Alexa said examining Ruby. Get some energy in you first. Youve

been lying on your back for three years, you need sustenance.

Rowanne and Brian rushed to the kitchen to make her something to eat while Alexa

examined Ruby a few more times until she was certain that Ruby was fine. Brian

returned with a tray of food in his arms which contained a PB and J sandwich, a banana,

beetroot soup, chips and vanilla yogurt. Rowanne came hurling in right behind Brianwith a large jug of ice cold water and a tall empty glass in one hand and in the other she

carried another glass full to the brim of OJ.

Alexa wasnt happy that they hadnt brought her anything with sugar in it so she explored


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the kitchen herself before returning with three cookies and another glass of OJ.

Okay, Im full. I cant eat another bite. Ruby said pushing the last cookie away from

her with a look of disgust on her face. Can I get up now, please?Alright, but take it easy. Alexa said.

Lifting her right leg up, she swung it to the right side of the bed then did the same againwith her left leg. Dulcie grabbed a pair of my slippers and put them at Rubys feet so shewould be warm. Pushing herself further to the edge of the bed, Ruby slid her feet into my

plush white Ugg slippers. With the help of Alexa and Riley she stood up. Her knees

trembled as she attempted to move her right leg forward. Stumbling into Riley on herright she held tight to him as he righted her again. Putting her left foot forward she

steadied herself by gripping onto Alexas shoulder. Awkwardly she continued to step

forth right to left until her legs steadied themselves without her needing to grip onto

anything or anyone.

Letting go of Riley and Alexa as they arrived at my bedroom door she stepped outside the

room without any support from the rest of us. She looked at the door opposite her thatled up to the attic and her head turned upwards as she remembered where the door led to.

Turning to her left she looked at the next door on the left side of the corridor and strolled

towards it.

Uh Ruby, I dont think thats a good idea. said Rowanne.Why not? she said placing her hand on the door.

Ruby? came Dexters voice from within the bathroom.

Dad? she said groping for the handle. It is you. she said swinging the door open toreveal Dexter slumped against the wall while Leonard casually leaned against the shower

eyeing Dexter watchfully.

Ruby, youre awake. Dexter said mournfully.

You!she suddenly burst out angrily. Youre the one who kept me asleep! How couldyou!? she yelled before attempting to run away.

Ruby blundered out into the hall where her legs seemed to turn to jelly before giving outon her completely. Face down on the floor she pushed herself up to look around for

something to heave herself up on. Weakly she pushed herself onto her knees before

falling back over again on her side. Her red hair spilled on the carpet as she gave up andcried until her tears ran dry.

Telekinetically lifting her I took her back to my room before settling her on my own bed.

There she sobbed herself into a stupor of sleep. I shoved my hand out from the bed toclose the door as I could her Riona start to shout and rage at Dexter for what he had done

to his wives family. The door barely blocked the sound but Rubys grief had taken her

to a world far from what she knew.

*************************************

Ruby finally shed the last of her tears about a week after her awakening and wasdetermined to get on with life and help start the search for her mother and brother. She


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never once spoke to her father before Riley and his family moved him to their own house

on Declan Street where they had better restraints and more secure room to keep him in

until we needed him again. If I was certain of one thing I was certain that we wouldnt beletting him go until I loosened his tongue and I was certain there were only two ways of

doing so. Way one; use magic. Way two; use Ruby. We decided to let him stew, stuck

all alone in a room all day long with no one to talk to and nothing to do, we were surehed crack soon enough.

I wanted to do all I could to help Ruby get back to life and put the past three years behind

her, if that was possible, so that shed have a future to look forward to but a dark cloudalways seemed to follow her wherever she went. Every now and then Id catch the dark

look in her eyes that she did her best to keep hidden from her concerned relatives and

new friends. Of course none of us expected her to wake up to be happy with the way our

families world was right then. Half dead and two missing. Shed go down to thegraveyard almost every day to leave flowers for my parents and our Pops. She seemed to

spend a lot of time there than anywhere else.

For the last week the house was more than a little cramped. In my house we have four

bedrooms and a converted dusty old attic. In each of the bedrooms there were queen

sized beds and in the attic there were two singles. Ten people could sleep in this house

but at the moment we had fourteen. Ruby, Rowanne, Nana, Riona, Brian, Dulcie,Matilda, Riley, Willem, Faith, Leonard, Torsten, Lee and myself. You could find four

sleeping bags in the living room filled by Riley and his family, in Brians room were two

sleeping bags filled by Torsten and Lee and two camper beds in Dulcies room filled bymyself and Matilda. Although Matilda and I had our own camper beds she still managed

to disrupt my sleep with her earsplitting snoring, it was a wonder how Dulcie managed to

sleep through it.

The nights I really struggled to sleep Id leave to meet Riley in the garden which was

really the only time we got to spend together in private. On the sixth night I was

awakened by Matildas arm colliding with my face. On my way down the corridor,towards the staircase, I saw a curtain blowing as I passed my bedroom door. Stepping

inside my room I saw Ruby wasnt asleep in my bed but was sitting outside the window

on the porch roof.Ruby, what are you doing out here? I asked climbing out beside her.

Couldnt sleep. she answered.

Arent you cold? I asked while rubbing heat into my arms.

Not really. she said gazing at the moon.Whats on your mind? I said shuffling closer to her.

Its my eighteenth birthday tomorrow, and Vincents

Yes, it is.

So, Ill come into my powers but not Vincent. I stayed silent. If we dont find himbefore tomorrow does that mean he wont get his powers?

No, not at all. Ruby, the legend says we dont come into our powers till our eighteenth

birthday it doesnt say anything about us not getting them if we dont access them onour birthday. Besides, I brought Lees powers out weeks after his ownbirthday and hes


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not even a Black.

So what is he? And how come his grandmother couldnt bring them out for him?

She was never a coven leader. But since I was the one to bring forth his powers Imguessing it makes him an Honorary Black. At least until he rebuilds the Rockwell

coven.

What happens to him till then?We treat him like family. Ive given him a blank spell book so that he may rebuild theRockwell Craft also. But until he does, hes family. We must love him as fiercely as we

love each and every other person in our family.

What about my Dad? Must I still love him?Thats really up to you, Ruby. What he did was unforgivable, but you cant let anyone

decide your feelings for you.

I feel like I should hate him.

Hate is such a strong word are you even capable of hate, Ruby?He deserves no less. she said as her voice shook.

Goddamn, we can feel the draught all the way down the hall. Matilda said appearing

behind us with her night dress askew, her All divas need beauty sleep mask stuck up inher birds nest hairdo. Trailing a fleece out with her she hopped onto the porch roof as

Dulcie joined us with three more blankets from the linen closet.

Its frickin freezing! Youre both crazy. she said climbing through the window also.

Why are you both up so late? Matilda asked.Because somebody just about knocked my teeth out in their sleep. I said pointedly

gazing at Matilda.

Im just too scared to sleep. Ruby said, cowing her head.Itll pass. Dulcie said reassuringly.

I hope so.

Shouldnt you be excited? Youre coming into your powers tomorrow! said Matilda

excitedly. I cant wait to see Billie do that voodoo hoodoo that she did at Rowannesbirthday.

That voodoo hoodoo what -? laughed Ruby.

Its the ceremonywhere I help you find your powers. I answered.So what do you do? she asked.

Its hard to describe. I hesitated. Looking around me I could see that my cousin and

my friends wanted answers. When I did it with Rowanne we joined hands.Yeah, we know that part now get to the reeeeal interesting part. said Matilda.

Sighing I continued. I felt the spark within me, the spark of power, flow through our

joined hands into her. It didnt exactly leave me, more like it was tethered to me. I know

that sounds strange but its the best way I can think of how to describe it.Go on. Dulcie encouraged.

My spark flew to Rowannes heart where her spark slept.

Slept? asked Matilda.

Well, yeah. The spark doesnt just appear when you turn eighteen, itsbeen there yourentire life thats why sometimes some people show their powers prematurely. The spark

has resided within you all along. Dormant, sleeping, slumbering. Whichever way you

want to put it.I wonder what kind of power youll have. Matilda said awestruck.


13/73

Well find out soon enough. I added.

What about Dad? What do we do with him? Hes been locked up for over a week. All

three turned to me for the answer.Im going to bring him in tomorrow. Hopefully, all that time alone has loosened his

lips.

But what if he still doesnt talk? Matilda asked soberly.Hell talk, all right. Even if I have to loosen his lips with magic.

When we climbed back through the open window Ruby climbed back into bed and shut

her eyes to sleep. Matilda and Dulcie silently skipped back down the hall where they toowent to sleep. At the thought of going back to being slapped by Matilda I changed the

course of my footsteps and headed downstairs and out to the garden where Riley was

waiting with two sleeping bags.

I hope I didnt keep you waiting. I apologised. I just had a chat with Ruby and thegirls.

About? he asked.

What happens next. What happens after she gets her powers. You know, the really easytopics.

And what did you tell them?

I toldher wed talk to her Dad again tomorrow.

What happens if he doesnt give you the answers youre looking for?Why does everyone expect me to have the answers? I asked frustrated.

Probably because your our leader, Bill. We follow in your footsteps.

I dont know what to say to that. I dont feel like a leader, Riley. Im not leadershipmaterial.

Thats exactly why youre the right person for the job. he said holding me.

I sighed. Youre wrong about me. Yet I still feel the weight of the world on my

shoulders.May be its good that you feel that way.

Why would you say that? I asked.

Keeps you on your toes, stops you from getting sloppy.I dont know, Riley. How can I play leader all on my own?

You wont be on your own. Youll have your aunt and your grandmother. Youll also

have me by your side every second of the day.Thank god! I honestly dont know what Id do without you.

Youd survive.

Doubtful. I said snuggling into him. Dont ever leave me.

Never. he said kissing me good night.

Chapter 3

WET WITCH

At eight we were mostly up, getting ready to celebrate Rubys birthday but she was sonervous she pretended to be asleep till eleven. When she knew we wouldnt buy the fake

snores much longer she showered, dressed and had a late breakfast at twelve.


14/73

We were all gathered in the kitchen when she finally came down while Rowanne and

Matilda snored head-to-head at the table. There wasnt enough room to swing a cat letalone my lunching coven. When Ruby approached me I was standing with Riley to my

right and Brian to my left while I gripped on to the last cup of coffee like it was my life

line.So when do we go see him? she asked.Leonard and Faith are already on their way over to bring him back. They shouldnt be

too long. I answered tapping my nails against the mug.

What are you gonna do once you get him here?Question him again.

But what if he still doesnt talk? Are you going to keep him hostage until he does?

No, well find someway to make him talk. Ill have Rowanne with me to try to coerce

it out of him with her powers.Then what will you do? Hand him over to the cops?

I dont plan on doing anything with him Ruby. Im just trusting my gut instincts and my

gut is telling me to talk to him again. Whether he talks or not I will continue to followmy instincts. I said a little coldly.

The sound of the door opening and hushed voices coming from the hall made me charge

through the crowded kitchen into the hall where I found Leonard and Faith draggingDexter in with bound hands and masked eyes.

Where do you want him? Faith asked.

In the room behind the fireplace. I said pointing in the direction of the secret room.As Brian entered the dining area he grabbed a straight backed wooden chair and handed it

to Leonard before he entered the room.

Why do you want him in here, Bill? Brain asked.

Keep your ears open youll find out soon enough. he was about to turn away from mewhen I caught him by the arm. Do me a favor?

Sure, name it. he said instantly.

Keep Ruby out here. I dont want her getting upset, you understand?I do. You can count on me.

Thanks.

Faith pushed the chair to the back wall where the brass podium and Black Craft once

stood before shoving Dexter onto it. They stood back and made room for Rowanne and I

to get closer to talk to him. With a flick of my fingers the fabric covering Dexters eyes

twitched and then fell into his lap. Hed washed since the last time Id seen him but hewas still wearing the same clothes and they were reeking. His sandy hair was a mess

and more greys were seeping through, the bags under his eyes were larger and his skin

was much paler.

Do you know where you are? I asked him.No. he croaked.

Do you know why youre here, Dexter?

Yes.Wewant answers.


15/73

Yes. he said again.

Where are they?

No. he answered.No? What do you mean no? I asked calmly.

No, I wont give you those answers.

Why not?Because they are safe where they are.No, Dexter, youre wrong. Theyll find them and then theyll kill them. Do you

understand?

They wont find them. I hid them well.I know youve done the same to them as you did to Ruby. he looked horrified at my

knowledge. When she was still sleeping I held her hand and I asked her to show me

them. I saw them sleeping in hospital gowns in a hospital bed.

Not possible. he shook his head, mumbling to himself.Possibilities are limitless with magic. he continued to shake his head. Do you know

what day it is, Dexter?

What? he sighed.November 1st2010. he gasped. Do you know what that means?

Its Rubys birthday. a lingering smile appeared on his lined face.

Which one, Dexter?

The smile vanished. Eighteen.And what happens today on her eighteenth birthday, Dexter?

Her powers. he croaked again.

Thats right. Shell get her powers today.But not Vincent. Hes still safe, you cant get to him still safe. he mumbled like a

crazy person.

I felt a jolt of shock shoot through me. How could I forget? It was his birthday, too, afterall they were twins.

It doesnt matter if he doesnt get his powers today. He can still get them later.

No. he said desperately.Yes, the legend goes that you have to be eighteen to come into your powers. There is no

time limit on when you can get them. Ive done it recently with someone else who was

from another coven. If I can do it for him, I can do it for Vincent too.No! he moaned.

Tell us where he is.

Never. Dexter said venomously.

How do you think Sophia would feel if she knew you were holding her son from cominginto his powers? Holding him from his family?

I am his family. he said weakly.

Do you really believe Vincent would see it that way?

Dexter didnt meet my eyes again.Just tell us where they are and this will all be over.

Never. he whispered.

I turned to Rowanne. Help me. she nodded in agreement.


16/73

Taking hold of Dexters hand he shook her off so instead she took hold of his knee.

Dexter, theyrenot safe. You must tell us where Sophia and Vincent are.

The dream like gaze started to come over his eyes which happened with most peoplewhen Rowanne attempted to influence them with her power.

He snapped his eyes shut tight. Mustnt he mumbled.

You know I dont need to look into your eyes to make you talk. My power worksdifferently than you think, its easier when looking through the eyes but the other wayisnt impossible.

I dont believe you.

Listen to me, Dexter. she whispered in his ear still holding onto him. Your old friendsare very good at tracking down witches and leaving no trails behind them after theyve

done what they go out to do.

Then let me ask you something. If youre so sure that they can find them why are you

still holding me captive? Rowanne looked up at me surprised. Because Im the onlyperson who knows where they are, Im the only person who can protect them right now.

If you want them safe, then you should let me go so I can protect them.

How many of them are there, Dexter?Lots. But there are four ring leaders. he answered, the dream like trance finally taking

over him as Rowanne broke through.

Who are they? she asked.

Zach Spangler, Dennis Dinsmore, Quinn De Witt and Alphaeus Stone.Why did they start this? Why do they kill witches? Rowanne asked.

Alphaeus started it. He discovered his wife was one and he thought her evil so he killed

her. But his daughter, Maxine, saw him. After she ran away he found out from othersthat she wasnt normal either.

Was she a witch? I asked.

No, something else.

A Pagan? Dulcie asked from the doorway.No. She had a power but she wasnt a Witch or a Pagan.

What kind of power?

She could read minds. Listen to peoples thoughts.A Telepath. Dulcie spoke again, reverently.

Yes. he confirmed. Hes been trying to find her ever since, he almost caught her a

couple years back in Nevada. Dont know where but shed already moved on by the timehe got there.

Did they ever catch her? Leonard asked.

No.

So it was because of his wife that he started hunting down Witches? I asked.No, when he was in Nevada he discovered a small coven that had been protecting

Maxine. Using their magic to keep her hidden from her father. He was enraged. After

killing that small coven he went on from there. He said hed only hurt those who hid her

from him but it spiraled out of control and now he just kills all witches and anythingmagically or mythically created.

None of this sounds like some kind of religious cult like weve all been lead to believe,

so why do they call themselves the Preachers? Rowanne asked.Because other Witches started to hunt them down and the so called Preachers would do


17/73

anything to throw you all of their scent.

How wonderful! I say sarcastically.

Other than the Pagans and those like Maxine, what else does he know of?Werewolves. Rowanne gasped. He likes to collect their teeth.

Why? she asked.

He thinks the teeth have the power to kill the Vampires. He doesnt know its theirsaliva that is fatal to them. The Smiths all exchange nervous glances.You certainly know a great deal more than we originally thought. I admit.

I was in their company for a while. I learned a lot. he scoffed.

Where do they live? Rowanne asks.England. I dont know where, I never asked.

Theyre British? she asked.

Mostly.

Is this Alpheus Stone English?Yes.

What else can you tell us about them? I ask.

They are mostly made up of older men except for Quinn. Hes not even thirty yet.None of the others trust him much because they think hes turning soft.

Soft?

They think hes becoming a witch sympathizer. Dexter rushed.

But the others arent so tell me where Sophia and Vincent are.Never. he whispered.

I sigh. Guys, letstake a breather. I said leading them all back into the living room.

Shouldnt one of us stay in there with him? Leonard asked.Its not like he can escape, Leonard.

True.

So what now? Hes not going to tell you where Vincent and Sophia are. Riley said.

No, he really isnt. I paced about the room as the others watched me, willing me totalk. All right, were going to have to let him go.

What!? Riona shouted.

Hes the only one who knows their location; hes the only one who can protect them fornow. I explained.

You cant just let him walk out she blurted.

No, Im not just going to let him walk out of here and out of our lives. So, Im going toneed a volunteer. I need someone to follow him.

Riona saw my logic and nodded in agreement.

I would like to volunteer my help. Torsten said raising a hand when no one else would.

Are you sure? I asked uncertain.Yes, if this helps to find your cousin and aunt then I would like to help.

It could be dangerous. What if he runs into the Preachers? Matilda said desperately.

It is a possibility, Torsten. Riona said on a more serious note.

Well, I wont have to worry because I am not a witch, I am not a mythical creature and Ihave no powers. I am just a plain old human.

Guilty by association. Leonard blurted suddenly. If they can find a reason for killing

you then they will. Yours will be guilty by association.I have to agree. Nana added. Theyll be merciless if they discover you.


18/73

Im very good at staying hidden. he promised Nana.

Are you sure youre up for this? I asked him.

Absolutely. I only wish to help.Thank you, youre very brave. I said gratefully. Rowanne, do you think you can wipe

Dexters memory? Just enough to make him forget about seeing Torsten with us? Hell

have to stay quite close to Dexter to keep a constant eye on him. Do you think you cando that?I dont see why not. Rowanne answered.

Then Torstenshould come with me. Hell need some money in case theres a lot of

travelling involved. Leonard said leading Torsten out of the room. Come on;lets getyour bags packed first.

I appreciate this, Mr Smith.

Not at all. I heard Leonard say before they got to the top of the stairs.

Rowanne headed back through to where Dexter remained bound to his chair she placed

her hand on his knee once more and took a fistful of his hair in the other hand to force

him to meet her eyes.Were going to let you go. Youll check to make sure that both Sophia and Vincent are

safe as soon as you leave. Youll check in with them personally.

Youre going to let me go? he asked disbelievingly.

Yes. Youll also forget about Torsten, the young German man whom is our friend.Who? he asked.

Good. She smiled, pleased with herself. Dont try to speak to Ruby, just leave her

alone.If you see the Preachers or hear of them near Sophia, Vincent or ourselves you will call

us. I added.

Why? he asked.

Because wecan protect them better than you.

It didnt take much convincing after that. Leonard and Torsten had already made their

way over to Declan Street to make sure Torsten had plenty of money for travel, sine we

didnt know how far hed be travelling or how long for, before Leonard drove him overto the bus stop. Once Dexter was cleaned up and his belongings returned to him,

Rowanne, Ruby, Dulcie and I drove him over to the same bus stop.

Ruby Dexter started to say. I only did it to protect you.

Ruby wasnt listening. Ignoring his pleas she storms back to the car and slams the door

behind her after climbing back inside my old VW Beetle. Dexter didnt even pay Torsten

any attention as he turned up at the other end of the shelter so suddenly. Leonard

sauntered past, nodding at me to let me know all was well, before taking off with,gracefully, abrupt speed.

Remember, I started to warn Dexter as a bus to Manhattan drew close, go straight to

Vincent and Sophia. Check on one and then the other, in person.He nodded weakly before climbing onto the bus behind Torsten.

Are you sure about this? Rowanne asked uncertainly.

I told Ruby Im going with my gut, so I intend to follow through with that.Well, what do we do now? Dulcie asked.


19/73

We wait and prepare ourselves.

Prepare ourselves for what?

War.

Chapter 4

HANGING WOODS

Around dinner time that night, Torsten called to let us know that he was boarding a train

with Dexter to Boston. This surprised us all to know ends.Do you think hes trying to shake us off his trail? Riona asked.

No, I was there when Rowanne gave him specific instructions to check in on Sophia and

Vincent.

So does that mean either Vincent or my Mom could be in Boston? Ruby asked.It could be just one of many stops, Rubes. Rowanne added wisely. May be hes

getting a connection from Boston to somewhere else.

To Salem? Lee asked.I doubt hed put them in the Witch capital of the world when he knew these Preachers or

Witch hunters, whatever you want to call them, would be searching for Witches and the

like. Nana said, pouring out tea as we all gathered round the dining room table. What

we need to do now is find safe houses for us all to stay. I love having you all here buttheres just notenough room to accommodate you all and, I can imagine, its not too

comfortable either.

Perhaps Rowanne and I could take Ruby to her mothers cottage near Penn Peaks?Riona suggested.

Yes, if you could take Lee with you that would be appreciated.

Wecould go back to our place. Leonard said, pouring himself a mug of coffee.

Though we will always be close by. Riley promised, speaking only to me.Stay. I whispered.

If you insist. He smirks.

Can I move down from the loft? Matilda asks, anxiously.Why? Nana asks confused.

Matilda sighs, To be honest, Im just a little frightened of being on my own. What with

Chrisitian

The unfinished sentence hung heavily in the air around us.

She can bunk with me. Dulcie offered. I dont mind.

Well, if thats all right with Matilda its all right with me. Nana smiled kindly.

The following morning I woke to find Riona, Rowanne, Ruby, Nana and Lee already up

at the breakfast table, their bags and cases gathered at the foot of the stairs already.

Wow, youre not wasting any time are you?

Its better if we go early so we can settle in properly.Just let me change and Ill take you over.


20/73

Taking the stairs two at a time, I rushed back to find my bedroom empty. Riley had spent

the night, just like Id asked him to, after scaling the porch roof and climbing through my

open window. Now he was nowhere to be seen.Riley? I whisper.

Behind you. Came his voice from behind the door.

I snap the door shut to find Riley smiling down at me. Taking me in his arms, he lazilycarries me back to bed, kissing me all the while.

You slept well last night. He commented.

The best Ive slept in weeks. Did you?Sound as a pound, love. He said, trailing kisses down my jaw.

I gasp. I said Id take the others to Sophias cottage on Ivy Row. Do you want to come

with?

Sure. Let me get dressed.

A smile stretches broadly over my lips as I watch in awe as this finely sculptured vamp

pulls on his jeans and shirt from yesterday. He begins to climb back out the way he camein as I start to pull on a clean red sweater, skinny black jeans and a pair of playful canvas

pumps. The moment my right foot leaves the bottom step, the doorbell rings. I smiled as

I allow Riley across the threshold.

Knowing smiles spread across Riona and Rowannes mouths as Riley and I entered the

kitchen arm in arm. Ruby and Lee scraped up the last of their breakfast before following

the rest of us out into the hallway. Afterour goodbyes with Nana, they all grasped myhands or arms as I teleported us into the small garden outside Kerr Cottage.

It was in disrepair. None of us had set foot in it since Vincent went missing a couple

years back. The grass was almost as high as our waists, spilling over unkempt onto thesmall path leading to the tattered red front door. The ivy, famously known to crawl on

most buildings on this street giving it its name Ivy Row, covered most of the faded peach

exterior.

Riona, approaching the door, produced a brass key and slid it into the tarnished brass

lock. Pushing the door wide, creaking as it did, Riona stepped inside the grim dustyinterior. We all paused in the hallway as the door creaked shut behind us, making us all

jump.

Theres no one here. Riley said. Were quite alone.

How can you tell? Lee asked, curious.Riley pointed at his chest, simply answering, Vampire.

In the living room was upturned furniture and broken book cases. It looked like someone

had a fight in here.Do you think the witch hunters have been here? Ruby asks.

No, said Riona, Nana and I came here shortly after Vincent disappeared. The

furniture was like this then. Look, she said, pointing to something clinging to thecreamy leather, spider webs and more dust. No one has been in here for over a year.


21/73

May be we should go find our rooms. Suggested Rowanne. Then we can start to clean

this up.

Can we do the ritual here? Ruby asks me shyly.Sure. Well do it tonight.

The ringtone I assigned to Erin on my cell, Pinks So What, blared out from my backpocket, interrupting the empty silence that had fallen around us. As soon as I answeredthe phone I knew something was wrong. Erin was crying.

Erin, whats wrong?

Are you in town? she croaked.Yes. I lied.

You need to come by Lexis dorm. Quickly!

What happened?

I dont know I think she might be dead, Bill.

The words chilled me to the bone and I felt rooted to the spot but I couldnt waste any

time if there was a chance to save Lexi.Did you hear me? Erin sobbed.

Yes, Erin. Ill be right over, okay? Im on my way.

Oh, god thank you!

I snapped the cell shut, stowed it back in my pocket and without much preamble I

grasped Riley, Rowanne and Lee before teleporting out to Rileys house. Leonard, Faith

and Willem all jumped as we appeared in their living room.No time for explanation. Weve got to go. I said, pulling Willem into our little group.

Faith started to protest when I blinked and found us down the hall from Lexis dorm.

Whats going on? Lee asked, recognising his surroundings.Erin said she thinks Lexi is dead.

WHAT!?

Erin opened the door at the sound of our voices.

Thank god, youre here!

I didnt know what to expect. I had seen an old woman hanging from the fan in her

kitchen once beforean old friend of Nanas, Rose swinging around obscenely until

Leonard turned the fan off. May be I thought theyd find different ways of killing us off.

Fire, that was a popular way to kill a witch, right? Apparently they liked the tradition ofa noose, strangling or snapping some innocents neck.

Lexi was pale, she looked well, dead. Lee ran to her aid and, with a flick of my wrist,

her noose came undone and she fell into Lees open arms. Willem and Lee worked onbringing her round whilst Rowanne managed to convince Erin she was never here and

that she should get back to her homework.

Her necks not broken. Willem said, surveying her throat. We just need to wake herup and I can take care of these bruises.


22/73

Can you wake her? I ask.

Im on it. Lee said, spreading Lexi out in the proper position as he started to pump

away on a point between her breasts. Willem, in turn, began to breathe into her betweenLees beats.

Ease up, Lee. Riley said, taking Lexis wrist between his hands. Her pulse is steady.

Just need her to breathe Willem said with every gasp of air.

As Willem sat up for another gulp of air, Lexi gasped, her eyes flicking open. She sat up

at once, her eyes seemed to glow, and my face fell. Lexi raised an arm and fired at me.

The ball of fire threw me off my feet and out into the hall. Before I could muster ascream, Willems hands were on me, soothing me, taking away the awful sizzled flesh as

the flames dissipated.

Sorry. Lexi breathed. She collapsed into Lees still open arms.

Are you okay? Riley asked, coming to help me too my feet.Yes, Im fine. Willem was quick. Thanks. I said, turning to Willem.

Any time. He said, turning to help Lee with Lexi.

Youre still hot. Riley said, feeling my roasting body.So are you. I winked flirtatiously. Riley scowled, trying to hide his amusement.

Riley, really, Im okay.

Are you sure?

Yes.Hey, wed better get Lex to the hospital,just in case. Lee said, interrupting us. Im

not doubting your skills, man, I just want her checked over.

No worries. Willem said, bending over Lexis desk.Whatare you looking at? Riley asks his brother.

Its a suicide note. Theyre actually making their killings look like suicides.

Trying to cover their tracks no doubt. Said Riley.

We should bring this with us. I said, pocketing the letter. May be theres been moreso-called-suicides that were not aware of. See if some of them are witches. If there is,

we might find a pattern of sorts.

Good idea.

With Erin out of sight we lock up Lexis apartment then scour it for any more clues

before teleporting out to a hospital in Boston. All that we could find was a set offingerprints on the window ledge leading out into the fire escape.

Well, at least we know how they got in. I said, pointing to the dirty smudge. Do we

know any Witches on the police force?

Julianne knows someone who could probably check these out for us. Rowanneanswers. I cant remember her name but, yeah, shes a Witch slash cop.

Okay, is there anything we can use to get a copy of this?

We could just cut it out. Suggested Lee, pulling a Swiss army pocket knife out.

That could work. Riley nodded.

Lee swiftly cut wide wedge out of the white painted wood before carefully placing it in a

zip-lock food bag we found in one of Lexis kitchen cupboards. Riley pulls out a largerbag and slips the now innocent looking noose inside to hand over to the police Witch.


23/73

Lee lifts Lexi back into his arms, readying himself for teleportation. The other three put

their hands on me whilst I took Lees shoulder in my hand.

Mercy Hospital was the only one in Boston I was familiar with. Wed been here once a

long time ago when on a trip with my parents and Brian. Brian had had a small injury

that needed tending to so my parents brought him here.

A paramedic sighted Lee carrying our friend and instantly brought a wheelchair over for

us. The accident and emergency department wasnt busy at all. Getting Lexi checked in

was a breeze compared to the time I came here as a kid. Some nurses took Lexi into aroom, leaving us to pace the outer halls in silence. Eventually a doctor emerged and, to

our relief, he looked quite pleased.

Shes all right. Were going to keep her in overnight, just to keep an eye on her. We

may let her out in the morning. Why dont you kids go home? You sure look like youcould do with a rest.

Do you mind if I stay with her? I dont want to let her out of my sight. Lee asked.

The doctor sighed, Sure. But theres no need for the rest of you. Go home. He addedsternly.

Are you sure youll be all right on your own? Riley asks Lee.

Ill be fine. If I need you Ill call, okay?

Youd better call.I will.

Leading the way back down to a safer, emptier spot where I could teleport, my cell blaredout again. Torsten calling.

Hey, hows it going, Tor?

Im in Boston.

That was quick. Whats he doing?Checking into a hotel. Im right behind him. Hes been on his cell to someone but I

didnt catch a name. Hes going out for coffee in a couple hours.

Thanks. Keep us posted.Sure thing.

Flicking my hand I turned a security camera away from us as we entered a deserted staircase. Wordlessly, Riley and Rowanne offered me their hands so I could take us all back

home. We arrived in the attic room where Riona and Nana were working on a spell that

might help us track down Sophia and Vincent sooner should Dexter fail us.

Torstens booking into a hotel. I inform them, He says Dexters arranged to meet withsomeone in a coffee shop.

Hopefully, we wont need to use this. Nana said, indicating the spell she and Riona

were pouring over.

Do you think we might find Vincent tonight? Riona asked hopefully.May be, I sure hope so. Just keep working on that, just in case.

What do we do now? Rowanne asks as she and Riley follow me from the attic.

Do you feel up for a little sniffing around?Sure, where?


24/73

Old Rose Nelsons house and then back to Lexis dorm.

That could be incredibly dangerous. Riley noted.

I know, but I need to know if this is the same group of Preachers. Or how many come toattack each Witch. Lexi wont be talking for a while yet. Are you up for it?

Rowanne nods, Yeah, lets go.

After taking their hands once more we find ourselves in old Roses back yard. Fromwhere we stand we can still see the police tape covering the front garden and entrance to

Roses house. With one glance at Riley he gives me the nod. No ones home.

Twirling and sliding my fingers, the locks on Roses back door undo themselves and the

door falls open allowing us entrance. At the threshold, Rowanne shifts and her clothes

fall to her newly formed paws. She stands on all fours, shakes herself down and slowly

begins to work her way around the kitchen, pausing at certain things to take a longersniff. My Werewolf cousin leads us out into the living room and the hallways beyond

where Leonard and I could clearly tell a struggle took place here. It still stank of magic

and blood.

The Wolf-Rowanne took towards the stairs then turned away, shaking her furry head.

We found her in the kitchen, transformed and fully dressed once more. She has a grim

set about her thin lips.There were at least five here when they attacked. She explained.

Why didnt you go upstairs? Riley asked.

I only caught one of their scents on the stairs, going up and coming back down again.They were probably inspecting to see if there was anyone else in the house. Lets get out

of here; my nose is filled with the smell of blood.

Roses blood?

No, she put up a good fight. May be took down one or two with her.I doubt one or two is going to leave a dent in the armada coming our way. Riley spoke,

leading the way into the back yard again.

Youre right. We need a plan. Lets go back and see if theres been any progress withthat spell.

The spell didnt work. When we arrived back home it was to find them all gatheredaround a map of the country laid out on the dining room table. The family spell book

stood on its brass stand to one corner. I started flicking through it at once, looking for

something that we mightve overlooked.

We could make a potion. I suggested.Theres no potions in that book thatll help us. Nana groaned miserably.

No, we could make our own. I think I know what to do. I turned to Riona. Get a new

map and find something personal that belonged to Sophia and Vincent, then meet me

back here.What are you going to do?

Ive got all the ingredients I need already. Ill start working on a potion but to make it

work I need something personal that belonged to both of them. Something they wontmind getting dirty.


25/73

Ill go with you. Ruby started to offer.

No, Rubes, I need youhere. You too Nana.

What do you need us to do? Nana asked as she and Ruby followed me into the secretroom.

Meet me in the attic, Ive just got to pick up a few things first.

Looking confused they left as I started to gather ingredients for the potion. Sweet basil,aster, cardamom, moss, eucalyptus, eucalyptus oil, cedar wood, sandalwood, willow bark

and ragweed. Before leaving I picked up my athame and headed for the stairs. Id never

seen Nana look so lost before but, when I joined them beside the large cauldron in theattic room, she greeted me with a serenely proud smile.

What do you need us to do?

Setting the ingredients aside I pulled out the athame and explained. I need blood. Being

the potion creator Ill need to sacrifice some and you two are the nearest blood kin toSophia and Vincent so Ill need blood from you too.

You wont need as big a cauldron as that. Ruby noted.

Theres a lot more to go into it. I said, patting the waist high cauldron. Only offerwhat you can, I dont want you to make yourselves sick.

Chapter 6

POTION TIME

Pressing the black side of the blade into my left palm I quickly slice through my softflesh and fist my hand over the cauldrons large rim before quickly passing the athame

onto Ruby. As all three of us bled into the belly of the cauldron, I deftly dug out my cell,

warning Riley and the other vamps to stay away from the upper floors. It wouldnt do tohave four vampires burst in on us whilst bleeding out.

Taking the athame along their palms again with the silver side they healed up quickly and

Nana set about getting cookies and orange juice for us whilst Ruby called Torsten for anupdate. I added another inch or two to the pool of blood gathering inside. I was soon

alone and only then did I draw the silver side along the cut on my palm.

Nana returned with OJ and cookies for me and left me to my potion, trusting my instincts

good naturedly. After necking the juice and eating the white chocolate chip cookies, I set

the glass and dish aside and started working on the ingredients. I found Rionas large

wooden stirrer and hastily began to stir as I squirted in half a pint of eucalyptus oil,followed by eucalyptus leaves, cedar wood, sandalwood and willow bark, for healing. To

show how personally, and strongly, connected we are bound I added some sweet basil,

aster, ragweed and cardamom and a handful of moss for luck.

The tang of the blood filled the room, not once being over powered by the healing scent

of eucalyptus. The smell of sweet basil and cardamom grew stronger though and the

black redness of the potion slowly started to change. I dont know why I said it or how


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the words came to me, but the spell seemed to shift and change the potion.

Blood do thy willHerbs heal thou soul

Over sea and hill

Seekwhat Dexter stole

The scent of blood vanished as the red cleared and the potion shimmered, sparkling

silver. It looked like what I imagined unicorn blood would look like. It was bright,

twinkling and innocent looking, yet somehow it managed to smell like chicken soup.This should work. I muttered to myself, smiling as I scooped up the potion into an

empty nearby jar.

Riona arrived back in the living room with Rowanne, theyd been successful in findingsomething that belonged to Sophia and Vincent down at the old cottage on Ivy Row.

Riona gave me a silver heart-shaped locket, belonging to Sophia, which contained baby

pictures of Ruby and Vincent. Vincents personal object was something that oncebelonged to Pops, an old pocket watch with an engraving on it from Nana celebrating

their tenth anniversary.

You sure thisll work? Riona asks uncertainly as I take each item from her.

Well, I just got a little nudge from Josephine on the spell-work so Im sure itll work justfine.

This seems to relax the room, that is, until I dunk the locket and pocket watch in thepotion filled jar. To be honest, I really didnt know what I was doing. After dunking

them in the potion I pulled them out right away. I held them both over the centre of the

map, waiting for the potion to drip down, waiting and praying for something to happen.

But the potion stuck to the pocket watch and locket.Try spinning them one at a time. Suggested Riona.

Why?

Just do it. May be itll drip off.How do you know?

I dont. I just have a feeling that you ought to spin them.

Everyone in the dining room, Rowanne, Dulcie, Brian, Matilda, Ruby, Nana, Riley,

Faith, Willem and Leonard, all furrowed their brows, glancing between Riona and I,

hoping to see the right answer hanging somewhere between us.

Dropping the locket back into the potion jar, I took the chain of the pocket watch and

fisted it in my right hand. Hovering the watch over the centre of the map again, my right

wrist flexes and the chain and watch begin to swing in circular motions. Wider and faster

it swings without any instances. Just as I turn to arch a questioning brow at Riona,something pulls the chain.

Okay, who did that? Seriously, its not funny! I complain.

No one touched it, Bill. Brian said, brows rising high. Something tugged it but itwasnt one of us.


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Swing it again, Billie. Riley coaxed me.

Obligingly I swung the watch again never taking my eyes of it. Just when I began tothink nothing was going to happen, I felt the tug. The chain slipped from my fingers and

we all watched as the pocket watch, almost, flew to the other side of the map.

Where is that? I said to those on the eastern side of the map.Faith, nearest, dutifully lifted the watch by the chain from the map when strings of thepotion stuck to it like glue. This silver stuff has made a little ring around a town.

Which town? Leonard asks.

Hang on, let me clear some of it away, I cant quite make out the name. Lets seeBoston.

Hes in Boston! Vincents in Boston! Nana cried happily.

Torstens already there! Matilda burst out.

Quick, lets find out where Sophia is! Riona called to me over the raucous celebration.

The silvery potion still stuck to the locket just as it did with the watch. Just like before, I

had eyes only for the spinning locket. After a couple of minutes the same tugging feelingpulled the chain free from my grasp and the locket landed somewhere to the west, on the

other side of the country. The excitement died away at once. Sophia was very far away,

I wasnt sure I could make the journey but, then again, I did manage to teleport all the

way to Germany, why not the west coast?

Matilda leant over the table and lifted away the locketthe potion still sticking like

strings of glueand cleared away the pool of silvery potion to revealSeattle. Matilda whispered in awe.

At least we know where she is. I said to break the tense silence which had fallen. We

should start making plans for retrieving them. Matilda, call Torsten again, find out if

theres been any progress.On it. She said, getting to her feet.

Dulcie and Brian, get online and list all hospitals in Seattle and find out which ones

would care for coma patients. The two turn away together, searching for their laptops.Nana, can you put the rest of the potion into vials? Just in case we need to use them

again.

Of course, Billie dear.What do you want me to do? Rowanne asks.

Get in touch with Lee, find out how Lexi is.

Bill, Matilda called, catching up with Riley and I as we made our way to the kitchen,

Torstens at the coffee shop just now. Hewants to talk to you.Thanks, Til. Torsten, any news? I asked, taking the cell from Matilda.

Hes having coffee with a doctor.

How do you know shes a doctor?

Her white lab coat is hanging off the back of her chair. She has a name tag but all itsays is Dr Moore.

Nothing else?

I think the name of the hospital is on it but I cant really see it without getting closer andI dont want to draw attention to myself.


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Of course. Can you describe what she looks like?

Yes. Shes an elderly woman with dark skin and greying hair. She has a walking stick

the handle is black but the cane is cherry red. Shes quite short and she has hunchedshoulders.

Are you sure she doesnt have her full name on the tag?

No. Wait okay, I can see it actually says Dr F A Moore. Does that help?Ill see if I can find her online. May be we can figure out which hospital she works atfrom there.

Do you want me to leave?

No, stay on them. Im about to say goodbye when I can hear raised voices fromTorstens end. Is that them?

Yes. Dexters really mad. I dont know what the argument is about but hes not letting

the doctor leave.

Do you want me to come get you?No, no, Ill be all right, Bill. Theyve not even noticed me yet. Hang on, shes leaving

now. Do you want me to stay with Dexter?

Actually, no, follow the doctor. But remember, she isnt under Rowannes control stay hidden and vigilant. If you find yourself in trouble, call me and Ill take you away.

Will do, speak soon.

Bye. Brian, I call snapping the cell shut and tossing it back to Matilda, where are

you?In the kitchen!

Riley follows me mutely everywhere. When I shoot him a questioning look he justshrugs and smiles politely. Brian and Dulcie sit shoulder to shoulder, compiling the list

of Seattle hospitals.

Whats up? he asks.

Can you do a quick search for me?Sure.

Look for a Dr F A Moore in the Boston area. I want to see if it brings up which hospital

she works at.Most popular result is Mercy Hospital. Brian says, turning the screen to show me a

snapshot of Dr Moore, on Mercy Hospital, tending to a patient. She fits Torstens

description. Short, hunched shoulders, dark skin and short greying hair.Excellent. Is there any chance they have a map or hospital layout online? See if you

can find the coma ward or any ward that would possibly care for coma patients.

I leave Brian to search and follow Riley out into the garden, hoping for a moment ofpeace but Rowanne runs out after me.

Bill! You need to go get Lexi and Lee out of their now!

What? Whats happened?

The Preachers are there. I think they mightve hurt Lee, I just lost the connection.On it.

Not without me youre not. Riley warns, taking my hands in his.

Becareful. Rowanne says. Nodding I blink and Riley and I find ourselves in Lexisabandoned hospital room.


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All seems fine at first, the level is eerily quiet and empty. We havent taken one step

outside before I feel Rileys grip on me tighten excruciatingly. When I glance at him, Ican see his fangs have extended and his eyes darken from pale grey to stormy grey.

Riley, what is it? I ask, trying to shake him off.

I smell blood.We are in a hospital. I say, trying to sound contrite as I scold him. Riley, snap out ofit.

His eyes lighten a shade or two as he looks me over. He nods, Stay behind me, Bill.

Out in the corridor, the nurses desk is empty and there isnt a patient to be seen

anywhere. Riley stiffens, tightening his grip on me again as we stop next to the set of

stairs Riley, Rowanne and I teleported from earlier. Peaking over Rileys shoulder, I

watch as he tentatively pushes the door to one side.

Lee is lying unconscious on the floor, theres an ugly looking gash on his fore head,

another along his jaw and a scrape beneath his collar bone.Is he all right? I ask panicked as Riley pulls me towards him.

Hes alive, just knocked out. Looks like he put up a fight at least.

Where the hell is Lexi? You dont think they got her, do you?

Lets get Lee out of here first, then well come back for her.

Nodding, I take hold of Lee and leave Riley to watch over the stair case as I teleport

home. Everyone in the living room jumps startled, as usual, by my sudden appearance.But I have no time to explain, leaving Lee on the sofa, I teleport back to the stair case and

Rileys gone!

Hes not in the corridor or in Lexis room. Im too scared to go outside, wonderingwhere the Preachers are I hide in a small supply closet just outside Lexis room and start

to astral project. Im next to the abandoned main desk. Theres no sounds coming from

the floor Im on.

What has happened to Riley? Im terrified and wishing Id never left him behind when

he suddenly streaks through the open doors to the stairs with Lexi in his arms. Hespanting and burnt in places but cradles Lexi in his arms as he looks wildly around.

Bill? he calls out.

Im here. I say, shifting around a little to let him see my transparent form.

What are you doing?Ididnt want to come out in case I was attacked. Im hiding in the supply closet. What

happened?

She about took out everyone in the upper levels.

What do you mean?They came back to finish what she started, she said. She went mad when she saw them

hurting Lee. Theyve got Witches on their side, Bill.

Not possible. I mutter, doubtfully.I saw them too! he said frantically. What are we going to do?


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I need to get Dr Moore out while Im here and Torsten. Put Lexi back in her bed, Ill

call Torsten.

Blinking, I open my eyes to find myself back inside the supply closet then went back to

Riley and Lexi whilst fishing out my cell to call Torsten.

Torsten, are you okay?Are you here? he asks, sounding hoarse.Yes, where are you.

I just got outside. Dr Moore and I were both outside when we saw the fire start and she

ran in. I had to go in after her; I knew youd probably want to speak with her.Is she alive?

Yes, shes with me now. Shaken up a bit though.

Where about outside are you? I ask, turning to the window.

Just by the little camper van made to look like a small coffee place.Yeah, I see you. Is that the doctor on the bench?

Yeah, she had to lie down. Where are you?

Upstairs with Riley and Lexi, I had to take Lee home he was injured. You haventasked Dr Moore about Vincent have you?

Not flat out like that, no. I made a passing comment about coma patients and she said

there are no coma patients at the hospital just now.

She knows something though. Dexter wouldnt have gotten in touch if she wasntconnected.

I agree. What should I do?

Stay there, Ill be right down. Riley had already lifted Lexi in his arms by the time Isnapped the cell shut. Give me your hand.

The safest place to teleport to without being seen was right behind the coffee camper van.

Torsten looked extremely relieved to see us appear relatively unharmed.Is she all right? Dr Moore said, voice husky and hoarse as she leapt to her feet.

Even with a walking stick she managed to move at some pace, covering the groundbetween herself and Lexi in an instant.

Shes fine, just over-exhaustion. Riley said wisely.

Let me see her.

The doctor moved closer to Lexi whilst I took hold of Riley, indicating for Torsten to do

the same, I grasped the doctors shoulder firmly with my other hand, trapping her

between the three of us and transporting her to my room in New York. She doesnt reactright away. Still bent over, examining Lexi, we watch as comprehension slowly dawns

on her very lined face.

What the she began to say, her eyes wide and fearful. Where am I? What did you

do?Dr Moore, please dont panic. Youre safe here.

Who are you? she asked stunned, beholding me as if I was the creature from the black

lagoon.Im Billie Black.


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Black?

Thats right. Im Vincents cousin. I know youve been working with my uncle, Dexter

Kerr. Did he bribe you to keep my cousin comatose?I dont know what youre talking about. She started defensively. I dont know what

you are but you have no right

Tor, be a dear and bring Rowanne up, wont you?Right away.

Riley and I effectively ignored the doctor as she bristled with indignation. Torsten came

back with both Rowanne and Willem in tow. Willem, Riley and Torsten all fussed overhealing Lexi, soon to be joined by a conscious Lee who looked well again if not a little

scraped and bruised.

Dr Moore jumped at contact with Rowanne. Snatching her hand away from Rowanne,with a rather violent motion, she inched fearfully away as an angry growl came from

Rowannes throat.

Best behaviour, Rowanne. I warned.Who are you people? Dr Moore asked. How did I get here?

Dr Moore, my name is Billie Black. I am Dexter Kerrs niece.

Youre looking for Vincent. She gasped.

Yes, hes my cousin. Dexter has kept him from his family.There are very dangerous men looking for him.

Yes, for all of us. I said, indicating the others in the room. Do you know why?

Dexter made you all out to sound like monsters amongst other ridiculous things thatshouldnt exist. Am I right?

Wrong. Nana said, as she entered the room. We are Witches. We are not monsters,

not evil and we do not worship the devil. Howeveryou or my son-in-law would describe

us, will only add insult to injury.And trust us when we say, you do not want to insult us. Riona threatened, entering after

Nana.

Dont threaten me! Dr Moore spat. I have been looking after that boy for almost twoyears.

Where is he? I asked. Hes not at the hospital. You told our friend Torsten there is no

patients in the coma ward.I had him moved recently when a stranger sought him out.

A stranger?

An Englishmen. I had him moved to safe place.

Where?Like Id tell you. She laughed.

Row?

On it. Rowanne said, taking the elderly womans wrist. Where is Vincent?

No. she protested.Where?

I cant hes safe there.

Where is he, Doctor? Rowanne asked once more.Hes at my home. Top floor, spare room.


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Where do you live?

Revere, a couple miles outside Boston.

I smirked at my cousin who grinned back heartily, Well, no time to lose. Lets getready.

Chapter 7

HOME AT LAST

Dulcie and Faith came with the good Doctor and me to retrieve my long lost cousin. Theroom was empty except for the bed, monitors and drips surrounded the kid lying there.

Well, is it him? Faith asked.

Strolling to the kid lying there, I took in his appearance. His hair was long, there were

also signs of facial hair as well. His eyes stayed shut as I cleared the hair from his face toget a better look. Pulling up one eye lid I saw the familiar hazel of Vincents eyes and

took in the freckles that still decorated his bone white cheeks.Thats him all right. I said as tears came tomy eyes. I found you. Youre coming

home. I told him although I wasnt sure he could hear me.

Oh, Billie. Dulcie said behind me. Dont cry. Youre breaking my all of a suddenthe smile disappeared from her beautiful face and her head snapped towards the window.

Dulcie, what is it?

Someones coming. She answered looking terrified.

I leaped towards the closed window and peered down into the garden as a hard rap played

against the front door.Is it them? Faith asked.Yeah, Preachers are here.

As if he could hear me the one I was certain was Quinn De Witt turned his gaze in my

direction.Theres someone upstairs. He called to his partners.

What do we do? Dulcie asked panicked as the front door made an awful crashing noise.

You two unhook all this stuff tied up to Vincent and get him ready for teleportation.Faith, if there is ever a time I need team work, its now.

I got your back. She promised already at the bedroom door.

There were shouts from the floor below and Dulcie gave a panicked shriek beforepushing Dr Moore to help her with Vincent. Faith and I stood side by side as we saw

Quinn and one of his colleagues come up towards us. Faith was as fast as a cat and tore

towards him knocking him out against a wall.Zach! Quinn called to the unconscious man.

Get out of here. You are not taking any more family from me. I warned Quinn.

What did you do to him? Quinn shouted at Faith.


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Hell live. Youd better listen to her if you want to stay breathing. She threatened.

Im notleaving here without him. He said attempting to sound menacing but instead

just pathetic.Who are you trying to kid? We have the power here. We will win and you will lose.

None of the other witches won though did they? he asked.

They werent prepared for attacks. But I am. He pulled a knife from within his jacketand pointed it threateningly at me. Sighing, I waved a hand and sent the knife flyingthrough an open doorway. Heres some food for fought. You can leave unharmed with

us and work for a better cause or, if you choose to still side with your friends then, things

are going to get messy.

More of Quinns men came upstairs to come to his aid as one of them handed him a gun.

What the hell are you waiting for? Shoot them! the small pock marked man cried as

Quinn stood there disgustedly looking at the gun in hand.I heard footsteps behind me before Dulcie breathed in my ear, Hes ready.

Right, let me take care of them and well go.

What are you waiting for? Shoot her! The man shouted at Quinn again.

Faith promptly moved in front of me as he raised the gun to aim at my chest. Quinn

squeezed the trigger and the bullet burst forth from the gun with a loud bang that quieted

the arguing couple next door. Faith tried to block it from me but I pushed her behind meand waved my hand once more. The bullet turned away from me not a moment too soon

and imbedded itself in the wood frame of the door. I made a shoving motion with my

right hand to make Quinn and his small threatening army fall back down the stairs.Pulling Faith back into the room, I slammed the door shut before turning to face the

others.

Time to go. I said grabbing hold of Vincents bed as the three women held on too.

Snapping my eyes shut to think of home I heard the men scrambling back upstairs while

shouting at Quinn. Soon the voices disappeared to be replaced with hushed whispers and

gasps. Opening my eyes I found myself in my living room back in Penn Gate. Dulcieand Dr Moore were breathing heavily still clinging to the metal bars on Vincents bed.

Rowanne, where are you? I called out to the room.

Im right here. She said pushing through to the front. What do you need?Get Sophias location no matter what it takes. Riona?

Yes? she asked stepping next to h

the hangman's noose

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