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Post by ladyfiaran22 on May 26, 2020 18:48:55 GMT -5
Chapter 34
The next morning, Axel, Kurt and Daniel were gathered on the village square. They were all clad in the uniform of the Black Watch: red wool jacket, the black, blue and orange Black Watch tartan kilt, red and white wool socks, black caps and black boots, with their hair pulled back.
Daniel dismounted from his horse, saluting them. "I hope this all works out, gentlemen. If not, this is not the first time I have had to flee", he said, a hint of bitterness in his voice.
"We're not going to fail, Connolly. We gotta do this, I hope Mary's okay, or I'll kick your ass", grumbled Kurt.
"Master Holmes, I assure you, I have not hurt Lady Drummond. I do not hurt women, I have seen women hurt before", he said, pain in his eyes.
Axel raised an eyebrow. Wow, he must've seen some bad shit. And where is his wife? Maybe he's a widower, he thought, frowning.
The trio got on their horses and left the village behind. It was an overcast day, hints of blue peeking out from beneath the clouds. "I hope it doesn't rain", muttered Axel.
"I hope so too. Remember, when we enter MacDonnel territory, do not say anything. Let me do the talking", said Daniel.
"Aren't they going to get suspicious, you did do them a favor?", asked Kurt.
"I am clanless, I am loyal to whomever gives me coin. They gave me coin, but your laird promised me something even better. I am loyal to him now", he replied.
Kurt shivered. Damn, that's harsh. He's like a mercenary. It must be terrible to have no family, he thought.
The trio rode on towards the west. "We are on MacDonnel lands", said Daniel.
"What do we have to do?", asked Axel.
"Just say we are patrolling the land. Since we are the police force of the Highlands, we have permission to go onto any clan's lands. Follow my lead", replied Daniel.
A small troop on foot approached them. There were five of them, dressed in the vivid red, green and blue MacDonnel tartan.
"Aye, welcome to MacDonnel lands, gentlemen. Is there any problem hereabouts?", asksed their leader.
"We are patrolling the lands. Several cattle were stolen, and we are keeping an eye out for rustlers", said Daniel, speaking with a Scottish accent.
"Cattle thieves? If we find the scoundrels, they shall hang from the highest gallows", he vowed.
Axel tried not to show his fear. Damn, this sounds like something out of a western movie. We'd better not do anything stupid here, he shuddered.
"Carry on, gentlemen. I hope ye catch the thieves", said the leader, leading his men away.
"Whew, that was close. Do they really hang cow thieves here?", asked Kurt, his eyes wide.
"Aye, they do. Ye do not want to know the punishment for rape or murder", he chuckled.
"That sucks, Maxwell", chuckled Kurt.
"Maxwell? Who is that? I do not know anyone named Maxwell ?", he asked, puzzled.
"You look like a guy we know, his name's Dave Maxwell. I swear, you guys look like twins", replied Axel.
"Interesting. Perhaps this Maxwell is my kin, and I do not know it. It does not sound like an Irish name", he mused.
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Post by Tim on May 26, 2020 23:16:45 GMT -5
Well, he won't be born for centuries.
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Post by ladyfiaran22 on May 27, 2020 7:05:12 GMT -5
Chapter 35
They arrived at the Matheson's homestead several days later. Jens and Jennet were feeding the chickens when the trio arrived.
"Daniel, is that you? What happened? And why are you with the Black Watch?", asked Jens, trying to sound calm.
Daniel and the others dismounted. "Hello Jens, Jennet. Follow me everyone, I will explain everything", he said.
They followed him inside in the house. Jennet hurried to the stove, putting on a kettle, setting out a plate of small cakes. "I am sorry if they are a bit stale, I have not been able to do any real baking", she said apologitically.
"Do not worry, Jennet", said Jens gallantly, pulling out a chair for her.
"Master Holmes, Master Karlsson , this is my partner Jens Holmgren, and his wife Jennet. Jens, Jennet this is Master Kurt Holmes and Master Axel Karlsson ", he said.
Kurt and Axel were not terribly surprised to see that Jens resembled their former band mate Danny Ellison. "Glad to meet you. You are not Scots either", said Jennet, puzzled.
"No ma'am, we are from the colonies", replied Kurt politely.
"So you're the other guy who kidnapped Mary", Axel blurted out.
Jens turned a deep shade of red, as Jennet put her arm around him. "Yes, unfortunately. Are you going to arrest me?", he asked calmly.
"No, Jens. Daniel is going to help us get Mary back", said Kurt.
"Are you the Kurt that Lady Drummond mentioned? She told me a man named Kurt was courting her", said Jens.
Kurt’s face lit up. "Yeah, I'm Kurt", he replied, a dreamy smile on his face.
"The laird Mackenzie cut a deal with me. He said that if we succeed in bringing back the Lady Drummond, he shall give me land and a house, and a woman of my choice. I will no longer be clanless, and Annaly will be safe", he said.
"Daniel, the laird MacDonald may not like that. He could be mad at us, then what would we do? My family is back in Norway, and I do not have enough coin for both Jennet and myself", he fretted.
"Jens, you seem like a nice guy. Why'd you get involved in this crap?", asked Axel.
"I am the youngest child of ten. My father is a farmer near Christiania, Norway. Since there was nothing for me, I took to the sea at age fourteen. Several years later, I found myself in Aberdeen, where I met Daniel. I helped him, and have been his partner since. Jennet's father would not approve of our marriage if I had no coin. I have saved enough coin, and Jennet and I have been married for two weeks now", he said proudly, kissing her cheek.
"Congratulations, you guys", said Kurt, taking out a sheet of parchment out of his pouch. He unrolled it, as they took a look. It was a document written by the laird, and sighed by the laird, the steward, the priest, with Kurt’s signature, and Mary's forged signature. It said that Kurt Lee Holmes and the Lady Mary Drummond were engaged.
"Is this real? Then it shall be easy for you to get her back. It was signed by a priest", said Jens thoughtfully.
Kurt sank back in his chair, an ecstatic grin on his face. So it's official, me and Mary are engaged. I hope this all goes well, he thought, his heart lighter than it had been in weeks.
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Post by Tim on May 27, 2020 17:32:31 GMT -5
Another ancestor of someone they know? What are the odds?
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Post by ladyfiaran22 on May 27, 2020 18:17:33 GMT -5
Chapter 36
Mary was upstairs in her chamber, a guitar in her lap. She had been escorted to her room by the steward, and left alone. The room was pleasant, light and airy, done in light blue and creamy white, the colors of the sky.
It is a pretty prison, but a prison nonetheless. The laird does not seem like a bad man, but I do not want to wed his son. I want Kurt, she thought, a tear falling down her cheek.
Her hands felt the guitar, as she slowly began to play. It was the song Kurt had taught her, called Stairway to Heaven. He said that it had been a popular song when he was a boy.
She played the opening chords like he'd shown her, the haunting melody echoing in the room. Mary played the song to the best of her ability. It wasn't perfect, but it was still beautiful.
She was interrupted when someone knocked on the door. Mary put down the guitar and answered the door.
Iver stood on the other side, smiling at her. "I am sorry if I had interrupted you, Lady Drummond. My father says we should spend time together. If you would rather not, I understand", he mumbled, looking down at his feet.
Part of her wanted to slam the door in his face, but she decided against it. The laird might punish me if I did so. Besides, he does not seem like a bad sort, she mused.
"All right, Master MacDonald. What do you suggest?", she asked.
He blushed an even deeper shade of red. "I, I, I was wondering if would like to see my chambers. I mean you no harm, Lady Drummond", he said, seeing the suspicious look on her face.
"Why do you want me to see your chamber? It is unseemly", she said, raising an eyebrow.
"I know, Lady Drummond. But I really want to show you something. It is the reason why I cannot find a wife", he whispered.
Mary was intrigued, in spite of herself. "All right, I shall go with you. But if you get fresh, I shall run", she warned.
He nodded, leading her upstairs. They climbed the stairs to the very top of the castle, in one of the towers. Iver opened the door, ushering her inside, lighting several candles on a table.
The room was flooded with light, as Mary looked around, her eyes wide.
The room was an artist's studio of sorts. Canvasses depicting stars and planets filled most of the space on the walls, a telescope peeking out of a window. Several unfinished canvases rested on easels, the shapes eerie in the candlelight.
"This is what I do, Lady Drummond. I gaze at the stars and heavenly bodies, and I paint them. I spend many hours here, painting. I am not interested in finding a wife, I do not wish to lie with either a man or a woman. This is my wife", he said, waving his arm around the room.
Mary was impressed. If he does not wish to take a wife, perhaps we do not have to get married. And these paintings are beautiful, she thought.
"Many of the ladies my father brings before me are not interested. They find it dull or odd. But I must marry to maintain our line, to have an heir for the family. Perhaps one day I shall find a wife who does not bother me. Lady Drummond, will you let me continue with my painting? I will not hurt you, and I will act properly towards you", he asked shyly.
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Post by ladyfiaran22 on May 28, 2020 21:28:01 GMT -5
Chapter 37
Kurt, Axel, and Daniel rode up to the MacDonald's castle. "Wow, this looks like something out of a fairy tale", whispered Kurt.
"Yeah, it looks like a real castle. The Mackenzie castle looks like a fortress", said Axel.
"It is quite splended inside as well. On the islands, there are not as many feuds as on the mainland. The clans here know their territory and do not bother each other", explained Daniel.
"You've been here before?", asked Axel .
"Yes, I have been all over the Highlands and Islands, Lewis, Harris, the Uists and even Barra. They are very rugged and poor, but peaceful", he murmured, a thoughtful expression on his face.
The guards stopped the trio. "Master Connolly, what brings ye back here? We have paid ye a lot of coin", he asked suspiciously.
"Gentlemen, the Mackenzie laird has sent us on an errand. I shall speak to the MacDonald", he replied.
The guards saw Kurt and Axel wore the Black Watch uniform. "Are ye Master Connolly's escorts? Come in, officers", said the guard, stepping aside to let them in.
The steward came over to them, bowing deeply as they dismounted. "Welcome to Castle MacDonald. First, ye shall bathe and refresh yourselves, then ye shall have an audience with the laird", he said, leading them upstairs.
An hour later, they were led to the laird's chambers. Kurt’s heart raced in anticipation and worry. I hope they don't throw us in the dungeon, or worse. I mean, the document was signed by priest and the laird, it's legally binding. And I hope Mary's safe, he thought.
"Relax, the MacDonald is not a cruel man. He is fair, and will listen to ye", said Daniel, squeezing his shoulder.
"The MacDonald is ready to see you", said the steward", opening the door.
The MacDonald sat on his chair on the dais, gazing impassively at them. "Master Connolly, please state your business. Did I not give you enough coin the last time?", he asked, frowning.
Daniel bowed before him, as the others followed suit. "Your Lordship, after I finished my task, I went back to the mainland with my daughter. We were apprehended by the Mackenzies, after my daughter inadvertantly blurted out the truth. Their laird ordered me to retrieve the Lady Drummond, saying that my actions violated a contract", he explained.
"What sort of contract?", he asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Your Lordship, there was a marriage agreement drawn up between the Lady Mary Drummond and Master Kurt Lee Holmes, I saw the document, it was signed by the laird, his steward, and his priest, the Lady Drummond and Master Holmes", he said, taking out the scroll and handing it to him.
The laird took the scroll and carefully read it. Daniel was right; it was sighed by the laird, his priest and his steward, and both parties, dated September 13, 1742, a week before the abduction.
"This is a legal document. Master Kilgore, summon the Lady Drummond to this chamber. I have no choice but to send her back with Master Connolly. I shall have to speak to my cousin of this", he said.
Mary was upstairs in Iver's studio, as he worked on a painting. The painting was based on a star he'd seen from his telescope. He'd been working on it all morning, and she'd been keeping him company.
"Mary, the star was so bright. I always thought stars were white, but this one was blue. I wish I could be amongst the stars, then I can see everything down here, like a god", he enthused.
Iver is not a bad sort, I suppose we could get along. He is not a mean person. But he is not Kurt, she thought, a tear falling from her eye.
The steward entered the room, as Iver looked up, annoyed. "The Lady Drummond, the laird wants to see you", he said, leading her downstairs.
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Post by Tim on May 29, 2020 13:12:01 GMT -5
That was easy!
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Post by ladyfiaran22 on May 29, 2020 19:01:32 GMT -5
Chapter 38
Mary followed the steward downstairs, puzzled. Did I do something to displease the laird? she wondered, her heart pounding.
The steward led her into the laird's chambers. She raised an eyebrow when she saw Daniel.
"Lady Drummond, Master Connolly told me that you had a previous bethrothal. Is that true?", he asked.
Her eyes widened. Is this a trap? But it is a way to get back to the clan, she thought, nodding.
"Aye, what is the name of your intended?", asked the laird.
She thought fast. There is only one man I wish to be wedded to, she thought.
"Kurt Lee Holmes is my intended", she replied.
"Very well then. Master Holmes, please retrieve your bride", he said.
Kurt emerged from behind a screen, an ecstatic smile on his lips. He rushed over to her side, sweeping her up in his arms and spinning her around.
"Mary! You're safe! I miss you", he said, kissing her passionately.
"Aye, I have never seen such eagerness from a bethrothal. Laddie, ye are very lucky. I wish I could find a wife for my son that pleases him as the Lady Drummond pleases you", he sighed.
Daniel and Axel came over to them. "Daniel, thanks. And thank you, Axel, for coming along. How can I repay you guys?", he beamed.
"Dude, slow down. I'll think of something", he cracked.
"Father, what is all this commotion?", asked Iver. He raised an eyebrow when he saw Mary in Kurt’s arms.
"Iver, your engagement is void. The Lady Drummond was already bethrothed to Master Holmes. I shall find you another wife", said the laird.
Iver sighed in relief. "Good, I dinna want to get married anyway. Good luck on your engagement, Lady Drummond and Master Holmes", he said graciously, smiling at them.
"Thanks, man. Hopefully you'll find a nice girl", said Kurt.
"I ken, Iver is my heir and he needs a bride, and an heir", the laird said sternly.
"Da, I got my paintings and the stars. I shall do my duty, but please do not find me a silly girl. I like my peace and quiet", he grumbled.
He turned to face the group. "You shall stay here with us tonight. We shall have a small celebration in your honor", he chuckled.
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Post by ladyfiaran22 on May 30, 2020 20:44:03 GMT -5
Chapter 39
The group left for Mackenzie lands the next day. Kurt was ecstatic, as Mary embraced him. "I am excited as you are, Kurt. I hope I shall be a good wife for you", she said.
"Mary, you will make a great wife, because you're my wife. My Mom's really cool, so I know how a Mom and wife is supposed to act", he said.
Kurt felt a sudden twinge of guilt when he mentioned his mother. I hope Mom's doing all right, he thought, frowning.
"Hurry up. We don't have all day", grumbled Axel
"You want to get back to Violet”, teased Kurt.
"Aye, I want to get back to Annaly", said Daniel. Kurt noticed the sad, faraway look in his eyes. He should be happy, he's going to see his daughter again, and be made part of the clan. I wonder what's bothering him?, he mused.
Later that evening, they were camped in a hedge near a meadow. A small fire crackled merrily, as they ate supper.
Daniel sat staring into the fire, his expression troubled. The flames illuminated his face, the light shining on his red hair.
Kurt was concerned. Daniel had barely spoken the whole day, his expression brooding and fierce.
"Daniel, are you all right? Is something bothering you?", he asked gently.
Daniel looked up, the green orbs startling in the darkness. "Bad memories, Master Holmes", was all he said.
He looked around quicky and got up. "Master Karlsson, keep an eye on the Lady Drummond", he commanded, as he led Kurt away.
When they were several yards away, Daniel stopped, motioning for him to sit down. He took out his pipe and lit it, before facing him.
"Master Holmes, today is the anniversary of my wife's death", he murmured.
"I'm sorry to hear that", he replied sympathetically.
"Master Holmes, let me tell you why I am a clanless man, and came to Scotland.
I was born in County Galway, Ireland, in Connemara. My parents owned lands and had coin. Life was good until my mother died. Father needed a mother for my brother and I, so he married a woman from Galway City.
She was the daughter of a rich merchant, and brought along a substantial dowry. She was a cold, proud woman, but left me alone, favoring my older brother, the heir to our land. I was expected to marry a nice girl from a good family, and mind my business.
My wife was named Maura, she was the daughter of the local wise woman, a peasant. I did not like the women my stepmother foisted on me, they were silly and empty-headed, and I fell in love with her. Of course, my stepmother did not approve, but she tolerated it.
Her mother was skilled with herbs, and some say, witchcraft. We were happy, and then Annaly was born. Unfortunately, the village got a new priest. The old one had been tolerant of my mother in law, but the new one hated her. He felt that all healing, and all herbal lore was evil, and he accused her of being a witch, of aborting unwanted children and making charms.
His sermons preached hate, and inflamed the congregation, and they turned against her. Then one night...", he whispered, taking another puff off his pipe.
"One night, the priest had inflamed the parishoners to a fever pitch. Maura was visiting her mother, when they attacked. They slaughtered the women, mutilating the bodies and burning down the house. They then dragged the bodies and brought them to my father's house, demanding that my father turn over me and Annaly. My father refused, and the servants hid me and Annaly in wagon under hay, as they snuck us out of the house.
We fled to Galway City, and they gave us coin to flee. We fled on a ship headed to Skye, where I left Annaly with the Mathesons to find coin. I have been wandering the Highlands and Islands since. I do odd jobs for the clans for coin. I cannot go back, Master Holmes. If I could, I will kill that priest with my bare hands, he is no man of God", he vowed.
Kurt was horrified by the entire tale. Just, damn. That is evil. No wonder he's so angry, so brooding. And that priest is truly evil, he shuddered.
"Daniel, I don't know what to say. I never knew people could act like that. You and Annaly are safe, the laird Mackenzie is a good man, his people are not going to be swayed by an evil priest. Friends?", he asked, extending his hand.
Daniel cracked a smile, clasping his hand. "Friends", he repeated.
"Now, let's get back to the camp before the others send out a search party", said Kurt, as they went back.
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Post by ladyfiaran22 on May 31, 2020 9:28:05 GMT -5
Chapter 40
A week later, they arrived on Mackenzie lands. The villagers were lined up along the street, watching the procession. First it was Axel, then Mary and Kurt, and finally Daniel.
They reached the keep, where they were greeted by the laird himself. "Bathe and refresh yourselves, gentlemen. Mary, I am so sorry I refused Kurt’s suit. I shall announce your bethrotal publicly", he said, embracing her.
"Thank you, your Lordship", she murmured.
"Where is Annaly?", asked Daniel, a worried look on his face.
"She is with Violet, or at Amy Beaton's house. She is in good hands, Master Connolly", said the laird, putting a hand on his shoulders.
Daniel changed his clothes and exited the keep. "Where is Amy Beaton's house?", he asked a young boy.
"That is me sister. Follow me", he said.
The boy led him to a cottage on the main street. The scent of freshly baked bread wafted from the open windows, happy childrens voices like the song of birds.
Daniel entered the house, his heart pounding. He sighed in relief when he saw Annaly seated at a table with a bunch of other children, talking happily. She was clean and neat, wearing a pretty pink and white dress. Her red curls gleamed, her green eyes merry.
She looked up and ran over to him. "Papa!", she cried, embracing her.
Daniel hugged her tightly, a tear falling from his eye. "Annaly, are you all right?", he asked worriedly.
"Annaly is a good girl, Master Connolly", said a female voice.
Daniel looked up, his eyes wide. A pretty young woman with merry brown eyes looked in his direction. Curly brown hair danced about her face, lips turned up in a smile. She wore a simple green dress, her feet bare.
"Are ye Miss Amy Beaton? Thank you for taking care of Annaly", he said.
"Aye, 'tis nothing. Would you like something to eat or drink, Master Connolly?", she asked.
"Aye, and call me Daniel", he replied, smiling at her.
Amy felt her heart skip a beat. Oh my, Annaly's father is so handsome, she thought, trying to control her thoughts.
"Papa, Miss Amy is so kind. She makes yummy cakes, and she's so pretty. I think you might like her, Papa", she babbled.
He chuckled, his gaze on Amy. "Yes poppet, I think I shall like her", he replied, stroking her hair.
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Post by ladyfiaran22 on May 31, 2020 22:04:53 GMT -5
Chapter 41
Meanwhile, Kurt and Axel had finished bathing and got dressed in their best kilts and plaids. "The laird is ready to see you now", said the steward.
They followed him downstairs to the laird's chamber. He got up from his chair, smiling at them.
"Bring out Master Hamilton and Master Butler and their women", he commanded.
James and Cliff, along with Jeanie and Morag emerged from a separate room. "Gentlemen, in honor of your service to the clan, ye shall be made full members of Clan Mackenzie. Master Holmes, ye and Lady Mary Drummond have my consent to wed. I hope ye have not been hasty in regards to her virtue", he said, looking at Kurt.
He blushed furiously. "No, your Lordship. We can wait until the wedding", he said, his cheeks still red.
"I understand, laddie. It is hard to wait, but be patient, the chase is better than the catch", he chuckled, a gleam in his eyes.
"When is the wedding?", asked Mary.
"Ye and Master Holmes are eager to wed, aye? Since there is no dowry to work out, it shall be soon. I would say within two weeks", he replied.
"Thank you for your generosity", said Kurt happily.
"And tell Master Connolly he is also to be made a full member of the clan. I do not blame him for wanting to see his daughter", he said.
"Was it exciting, Axel? What is Skye like?", asked Violet.
They lay in bed after their latest round of lovemaking. Axel held her close, stroking her hair. "Skye is a beautiful island, lots of mountains. You can see the mountains across the water, they're purple. Jens' house is but a cottage, but it's in a valley. Rugged as hell, the place is nice. It reminds me of Norway", he mused aloud.
"You have been to Norway? Did you go all the way to the top? Is it really cold?", she asked in a rush.
"So many questions, Violet. No, I've never been that far north. I went to Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim once. Skye looks like that, all mountains and water", he replied.
"I want to see Skye as well, and Norway. It must be beautiful", she murmured.
An idea suddenly came to her. "Axel, get dressed and follow me, I have something to show you", she said, handing him his clothes.
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Post by ladyfiaran22 on Jun 1, 2020 10:15:49 GMT -5
Chapter 42
Axel quickly got dressed, his heart pounding in anticipation. What does she have to show me?, he wondered, following her.
Violet led him to her father's chambers. She knocked on the door, as Kilwich let him in.
K Instead of his usual trousers and robe, he wore a long silk gown, a wine-colored purple with silver trim. His long white beard gleamed in the candlelight, as did his beard.
In this guise, he resembled a wizard or a sorcerer, instead of the clan's healer. Axel felt a chill go down his spine. What's going on?, he thought.
"Axel, jyou must promise not to tell anyone about what you see here. The people in the village, bless them, they are conditioned to see this as evil, the devil's work. Do not tell a soul. Promise me", she said, violet eyes glowing with passion.
"I swear, Violet. I won't tell anyone", he vowed. And I won't, I love you, Violet, he thought.
Kilwich walked into a closet, retrieving a round bundle wrapped in a shimmering green cloth. He took off the cloth, revealing a large crystal ball.
He set it down on a stand, the shiny brass reflecting on the surface. Violet locked and barred the door, and rejoined them.
"This is the Clach Na Bratach. I look into it, and it shows me visions. I have yet to see a false vision", he said.
"Cool, you have a crystal ball. Fortune tellers have 'em", he said, wondering what all the fuss was about.
"Of course, Gypsies have them, but this is real. Father can see visions in it. The laird knows, but the villagers do not. The laird is not a fearful man, but if the peasants found out, there would be hell to pay", she chuckled bitterly.
"It has been passed down in my family for many generations. It is said to be a gift from the fairy people", said Kilwich.
He took a deep breath and muttered an incantation:
Ball of crystal Of the all seeing orb Part your mists And grant me visions
The ball became less cloudy, as the glass became as clear as a window. "Wow", he murmured, obviously impressed.
The mists reappeared, and faded away, a scene coming into focus, as they peered closer. Axel was sitting on a large, cloth-covered chair in the parlor of a house. A box with a glass inside showed a sort of moving picture. A little girl with black wavy hair and vivid green eyes climbed onto his lap, as he hugged her.
"Daddy, I wanna see cartoons", she said.
"All right, anything for you, pumpkin", he chuckled, grabbing a long rectangular object and touching a button, as the glass changed to a brightly colored one.
Violet entered the room, a baby boy perched on her hip. "Axel, James just called. He wants to meet you tomorrow, it's a business thing", she said.
The baby smiled at his father, brilliant green eyes so like Axel’s'. "Hey little dude, wanna join us?", he asked.
The baby squealed, as Violet handed him his son. "I"m going to prepare supper. Be a good boy, Torben", she said, leaving the room.
The scene dissolved. Violet and Axel had surprised looks on their faces. We're married and have two beautiful children. And we're back in the future. Hope swelled within him, an ecstatic smile on his face.
Violet was also stunned. What an odd room, and what was that box? And I have children? How wonderful, she mused.
"Violet, let's go back my room. There's something I really gotta tell you. Good night, sir", he said, leading her out the door.
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Post by ladyfiaran22 on Jun 1, 2020 21:13:25 GMT -5
Chapter 43
"So Axel, you come from the future", said Violet. It was a statement, not a question.
"Yes Violet. Everything I told you is true. I hope we don't get burned for this", he chucked weakly.
Axel had led her back to his room and told her everything. Violet was surprised, shocked, appalled, and excited, all at once. The future sounds so marvelous. I want to see it, she mused.
"It sounds so weird, you walk through a stone circle, and end up two hundred fifty years in the past. If I didn't know better, I'd say Cliff spiked our drinks with acid", he cracked.
"Acid?", she asked, raising an eyebrow.
"It's this liquid, when you take it, you have visions and crap. Tried some once, but didn't care for it, I saw a lot of scary crap. Cliff liked to take it, he also smokes a lot of pot. You know hemp, marijuana", he explained.
"Some boys smoked hemp and got really ill. They were coughing a lot, giggling and their eyes were red. They also smelled terrible. How could anyone smoke that?", she asked, rolling her eyes.
"They smoked bad shit, wait 'til you smoke the good shit", he joked.
"Axel, in the future, what is the medicine like? Are people healthier or sicker? Do more babies live?", she asked.
"Yeah, doctors treat cancer with drugs and surgeons perform operations on the heart, brain, whatever. Hardly any babies die, unless they're really sick, and many people live to be old", he replied, seeing the wonder on her face.
"I would sell my soul to the devil himself to see that. Axel, I also assist the midwife, Annie. I have attended many births in the village on the farms. Many of the women are in terrible pain, and sometimes the babies die because they are too small or weak. In the future, these babies live?", she asked incredulously.
"Yes. That's a bummer, though. I think you'd make a great nurse, Violet. You love to help others, and kids like you. It must be a Virgo thing", he joked.
"Virgo? What is that?", she asked.
"You were born in September, right? We had a lot of fun that night. Anyway, you were born under the sign of Virgo, in the horoscope. Virgo represents the virgin. They love to help others, and they make great nurses, teachers, stuff like that. One of my aunts is a Virgo, she's a nurse at a children's hospital", he explained.
"You think so? And what is your life lie?", she asked.
"Like I said, my dad is Torben Karlsson and I was born in Sweden. My family moved to California when I was fourteen, that's where I met James. We formed Which Eternal Lie and later on we added Cliff and Kurt. We were touring in Scotland, when we wound up here", he replied.
"How do you get back?", she asked, a hint of sadness in her voice.
"Violet, I'm taking you with me. I love you, I don't wanna leave you behind", he said, embracing her.
"Axel, did you say that? I love you too", she replied shyly.
"Hey, good to know. I guess we go back the same way we came in. Or wait until the sky is red and the moon is blue. But I wonder what the others will say? They're gonna want to bring their women with them", he mused aloud.
"Yes, and what shall you tell the laird? He knows about the Clach Na Bratach, but this may be going a bit far. My father, though, he might be more sympathetic. After all, he did show you the Clach", she replied.
"Yeah, we gotta speak to your dad", he murmured
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Post by Tim on Jun 1, 2020 23:23:05 GMT -5
Wow, Violet took the news about his coming from the future rather well.
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Post by ladyfiaran22 on Jun 2, 2020 21:15:29 GMT -5
Chapter 44
Several Weeks Later
"Kurt, today's your big day. After all this crap, you guys are finally getting married", cracked James, clapping him on the back.
Kurt blushed, his dark eyes merry. "I know, finally. It felt strange having a chaperone everywhere, but the laird doesn't want me to compromise her. After all, a little waiting never hurt", he chuckled, adjusting his tie.
"Dude, you look fine. Mary's probably as nervous as you are", said Cliff.
"I want to look my best. This is a big wedding. I mean, it's in the castle, with his own priest and the everyone's invited. I hope I don't fuck this up", he muttered.
"You won't screw this up. Just don't faint, and enjoy the reception, then you can fuck her brains out. Hopefully the entire castle won't hear you", joked Axel.
"Very funny, you little troll. Why don't you find Violet and get laid?", retorted James.
"Hey, she's with Mary, doing girly-girl shit. That's for after the ceremony", he joked, winking at them.
Meanwhile, Mary was preparing for the wedding herself. "Miss Mary, you look so beautiful. Kirk shall be pleased", said Elsbeth, wiping a tear from her eye.
"Yes, he will not be able to resist ye, I wouldna be surprised if he got a bairn in yer belly right away", giggled Morag.
"Morag, Mary is a lady. 'Tis rude to speak like that", admonished Jeanie.
"Jeanie, I do not mind. Your cousin has a point, I am looking forward to that as well", she chuckled.
"Miss Mary! Do not speak of such things", chided Elsbeth, shocked.
"Elsbeth, it is not as though Kurt and I only play guitar together. That was wonderful", she sighed, her cheeks pink.
"Well, he'd better not take your virtue then. The laird will be very disappointed in him", she admonished.
"Ladies, if you are done, I would like to speak to Mary", said Violet.
The women left the room, as Violet and Mary were left alone. "Mary, there are things you should know about the wedding night..."
Mary cut her off. "Please, Violet. I am still a virgin, I shall be able to vouch for that later. But I have been intimate with Kurt, but we did not do everything. It was wonderful, I cannot wait", she giggled.
Violet's eyes widened, her lips turned upwards in a smile. "Mary, you surprise me. So how was it?", she asked, her eyes dancing with mirth.
Mary's eyes became dreamy. "We lay nude and he kissed me all over. It felt so wonderful, is the rest as wonderful?", she sighed.
"Yes indeed. There will be a bit of pain at first, but then it is so wonderful. I would not be surprised if you did not leave the chambers for days", she giggled.
Kurt stood before the altar in the laird's private chapel. It was crowded with villagers, retainers, and the laird's family. The pungent scent of incense filled the air, candles flickering against the stone walls.
The laird's personal priest stood before the altar. He was clad in rich vestments, a contrast to the simple robes of the village priest.
Thankfully this is a Catholic ceremony. I don't think Mom would've approved otherwise, he chuckled to himself.
The piper played a loud, but tuneful melody, as Mary came down the aisle, accompanied by the laird. Kurt felt his heart skip a beat. She wore a white lacy gown, her blond hair loose and flowing to her waist. A crown of white roses sat atop her golden hair, her blue eyes shining with joy.
"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here to join in Holy Matrimony Kurt Lee Holmes and Mary Elizabeth Drummond. Before we proceed, if anyone here should have an objection to why these two should not wed, say it now or forever hold your peace", said the priest.
When no one spoke up, he continued. "Do you, Master Kurt Lee Holmes, take Lady Mary Elizabeth Drummond to be your lawfully wedded wife, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, till death do you part?", he asked.
"I do", replied Kurt.
"Do you, Mary Elizabeth Drummond, take Kurt Lee Holmes to be your lawfully wedded husband, in sickness and in health, for richer or for poorer, til death do you part?", he asked.
"I do", replied Mary.
"By the power vested in me by the Holy Mother Church, I now pronounce you man and wife. You may now kiss the bride", said the priest.
Kurt smiled in relief, taking her into his arms and gently kissing her lips. "Not now, Mary. Later", he whispered.
The guests filed out of the chapel and into the main room of the keep. Tables and benches were set out, the rest of the musicians standing on the dais.
Kurt led Mary onto the dais, as the other musicians gathered around. "It is an odd request, but it is your wedding. I hope the guests do not mind", said Rory.
He cleared his throat, as the crowd became still. "Ladies and gentlemen, the bride and groom are going to perform for you tonight. Usually,, we would be playing music for you, but they had requested to play a song for you. May I present to you, Master and Mistress Holmes", said Rory, stepping aside.
Kurt picked up a guitar and smiled at Mary, as she picked up her own guitar. He played the opening notes of Stairway to Heaven, as she played the rhythm part.
Mary took a deep breath and began to sing. The hall was silent, listening to the two of them playing the song. The song gradually rose in intensity, as she played along, her voice matching the music. Towards the end, their fingers moved rapidly on the strings, not missing a note. Her voice reached a climax, then subsided, whispering the final words.
The audience was silent, then got to their feet and cheered. Mary blushed deep red, but Kurt held her, smiling at the crowd. "Mary, you sang great. Take a bow, they love you", he murmured.
"Aye, both of you were excellent", chuckled Rory, as the band played a lively jig and everyone began to dance.
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