I spent the night walking the city with William. Arm and arm he took me through the street, pointing out the local sites. Many of the people of the green had no where to live. With all these stone and steel construction the people still lived in the filth of dark places. I wondered why I was sent to a place so filled with dark and so few of my kin.
Many hours after the streets went quiet we came upon it. It was HUGE. It would be perfect. William broke the wood that blocked the door and we entered. I heard several clicks and by the flame it was day. The warehouse was flooded in light. I looked and saw metal branches streaking above. It was exactly what I was looking for. This was the place. I hugged William. He smiled happily and hugged me back. His lips pressed against mine. I just stood there as he kissed me. My mind thought of Cufean, my spirit ached yet my fire in the veins would not allow me to move, I wanted my sweet dream, not my friend.
William released me, still having a smile as broad as his face. “With a little elbow grease and a coat of paint we can fix the place up. You can get this community housed here. We can just move in and wait till we get kicked out.”
“Who are they? And why would they kick us?”
William laughed at me, seems everyone thought me funny. “If you don’t own the place or pay rent than the person who does own it will get you tossed out on your ear.”
“Than we will pay.” I turned my thoughts in to my self, determined to make this my new home for the mates.
We left the warehouse and William wrapped his arm around my waist leading me to the road that lead to the Mansion. He kissed me on me on my cheek, “Take care of your self sweetie pie. Watch out for them rich ones, you can bet they want something from you.” William smiled and turned back the way we had came.
Again I was warned. How many times was I going to get warned about the danger of this world? I was a seeker. It was dangerous work. Yes, I knew that none did anything without payment. The whole of the community expected from each other for life to continue. The green was much larger than my land but even the green had choirs for each to do.
I watched the sun coming up as I casually walked back to Nick’s Mansion. It was so beautiful. The sky light up as the colors streaked across, changing as the sun rose higher. I think I will miss the sun most of all when I leave. The rising and setting, the cycle of light and dark so much like T’zar had tried to explain to me. One with out the other is not good. Yet my people where with out the dark and the dark with out the light. Each lost unto themselves and each balancing unto the whole. These where foolish thoughts and I should not tread in such direction. I am a seeker and should not doubt the way of the flame. Still the green makes me see and feel things I never thought of.
I entered the door and voices drift to my ears. I quietly made my way up the stairs. I did not wish to draw the attention to my arrival. The room was all neat and tidy. The bed was remade with new sheets and covers. I wondered for a moment what happen to the ones I used on the car I gave cat but no matter, I needed to eat. Valoki left my shoulder and lay on the pillows and settled in for a nap. I dropped my things at the foot and left to the kitchen.
Quickly I assembled my rolls and spread. It was very easy to cook upon the blue flame. The great one Nick strolled in through the door. I smiled brightly at him. In the form of a man he seemed so reachable, I almost felt I could trust him but reminded myself who he really was. Cat ran in front of him and hopped up in a stool. My cooking had summoned the hungry one.
“Good morning, Daughter”, Nick said smiling.
There it was again, ‘Daughter’, term of the green endearment. I wondered what the great one meant. Was I really kin to him? Did I have a diluted amount of dragon in my blood that caused me to be drawn to them like a “moth to the flame”? Was he drawn to me? Did the mark of greatness have anything to do with it? Or was it just another game he was playing and I was the toy of the day? I was too happy for these thoughts, for now he was the bringer of great joy during my burning and I owed him for that.
“Great joy to thee Great one, would you like to eat??”
“I would enjoy that.” Nick perched on a stool next to Cat.
I made plate for each of fresh rolls and spread and put them in front of each of them. I returned to the cold box and retrieved the milk and fresh strawberries.
“How was thy night, O Seeker?”
I smiled brightly at his caring, “Fruitful.” I took but one roll and ate dipped it in the spread. The food of the green even this was not settling in my belly right. “I have found housing, it should be large enough. I need to find money now.”
Cat ate fast and washed it all down in a continual gulp of his juice. I was sure his stomach would scream in pain but it seemed to do fine with. “I have to go, I have five classes to day.” He waved his hand to us, as he tossed his backpack over the shoulder. He was gone out the door still with a roll in his mouth.
Nick split a roll with a knife then covered it in spread. He seemed to take no notice of Cat or anything else but the one roll he held. Each movement seemed carefully employed. I watched him, taking a bite of my roll and sip of the milk.
“Where is this abode?” he asked as he bite into the roll.
I spoke aloud with out thought, “To cold.” I picked up glass and held it over the blue flame
He looked up, and called out in alarm,” Careful, Glass does not like flame.”
“OH?”
He reached out for the glass. “May I?” he asked. Like a child responding to a parent I handed over my glass. He pushed a small button on a box suspended under the cabinets; it revealed a pure white chamber.
He set the glass in the chamber and closed the door. Nick pushed a few buttons and the box light up and the glass rotated slowly inside.
I watched him but answered his last question; “It is a very large hut with branches of iron. We can get a builder and make huts up in them and rope to use like vines. It has large beams of light to make it day always.”
Nick again was into what he was doing, so intense in his movement I wondered if he heard me but knew he did. He spoke in the tone of teaching, “This is a microwave oven. It warms anything placed within and very quickly.” The box beeped and he opened it again removing the glass and handing it to me. I sipped the now warm milk it was good but my tummy still seemed mad from the heaviness of the roll and my blood burned.
“One thing, Daughter.” Still he was a teacher, “Never place anything living inside. It will kill. It kills just as quickly as it warms.”
“I will heed your warning great one.”
Somewhere through time and space the great one heard a call and commanded Spock. To bring Mystic Raven to us. I was please the four-legged wing one was well. I thanked the flame for the renewing of his shell. I began to hum the tune of happiness.
From the beam of light that sweet Cufean traveled in, stepped out a man of height greater than mine by a hand. His body was solid. His hair was braided and came down to his waist and it was darker than mine was, as if I had ever thought that could ever be. His soft brown eyes cried with an inner soul of wonder, never had I seen such in my people. He wore the clothes of the green. His belt he had was leather and beads. The beads made patterns of wolf, raven. Bear and eagle. The buckle was of a bone buffalo. I realized I must be staring and busied my self cleaning up the mess I made but I couldn’t help but smile at him.
He muttered to him self “I need to learn that trick someday”
Nick greeted him, “Welcome back, Mystic Raven
I laid the remainder of the food on a plate and placed it in front of this new one “Mystic.” Nervously I spoke to him; “You look hungry.”
Nick jested, “I see your feathers have been replaced…do you number them?”
Mystic Raven replied,” O’ si yo Nick mish na mish? “
I was a seeker and he was a fine man, I raised my amulet and pointed it at Mystic… A dead tree. Would none of the green that was strong be allowed?
Nick spoke the language of Mystic, “Chau Mish, always, shaman.”
Mystic Raven nodded “Aho” His eyes fell upon me and again he spoke words that flowed like my native ones but I did not understand. “Katsi ya ya miss?” Cat must have forgotten something for again he was running around the kitchen and again he said his farewells. To my great delight Mystic spoke in the green a farewell to cat.
Nick still informing me spoke, “There are many tongues of the green, Daughter.”
The confusion was easy to read upon the brow of Mystic Raven,” I speak many tongues … of which do you refer?”
I smiled sweetly at him, “I speak of the tongue you speak now, the one of the cold and green,” In my mind Valoki called out I had shut the door and he could not get to me. “OOPS Valoki is seeking me and I closed the door on him. I beg your leave for only a moment.”
Mystic Raven still seemed puzzled, “Cold and green? Wakarimasen?”
Nick smiled. I am not sure if at the fact that Valoki was trapped or that Mystic was so confused by me but I gave the great one a look to plead my release from the room.
“This is Raven of the Fireoak forest.” He was amused but than released me, “Please, Daughter…”
Mystic Raven bowed and spoke “Greetings to you …” He looked surprised. “RAVEN …”
I did not wait for him to finish, “Thank you great one.” I rushed out of the room, up the stairs leaping four at a time and went to my friend. I walked back in with my sweet Valoki on my shoulder. They were still speaking of me. “You should not speak of one not in the room. It is not correct.” I corrected them for being impolite forgetting I was in the green and they are not bound by my ways.
Nick looked at me with a look that scared me, “Then I will from this point, always speak of you within your mind’s hearing.”
Valoki screamed at me “Stupid, Stupid, Stupid! You knew better than to correct the big ones. He is going to hurt us!”
Nick returned his talk to Mystic, “She is a Seeker.”
Mystic Raven questioned, “A Seeker?”
“Yes,” I said proudly
Mystic Raven thought and asked “Of what do you seek and may we be of any assistance??”
I looked at the plate untouched and said, “Four-legged wing one you have not eaten. If you do not like this I will make you something else.”
Mystic Raven looked confused again and looked around the room, “Huh?”
Nick smiled so wide, and held back his laughter, “Raven, may I present, Mystic Raven.”
Still fixed on Mystic I pointed at the plate I fixed for him and still lay untouched.
A chuckle slipped from the great one as he continued, “Mystic Raven, this is Raven of the Fireoak Forest.”
Mystic Raven smiled “Aho … I am hungry … and I thank you again for such.”
“Tis a pleasure to meet you Sir Mystic Raven.”
Mystic Raven ate some of the rolls and spoke, “I am not familiar with that forest … South American?”
“It is in the land of the whole and pure of the flame,” I started to explain.
Nick looked at Mystic Raven. “Yes, she is from another dimension.”
Mystic Raven continued to feast upon the food, “Interesting choice of names.”
“One thing I have neglected to tell you, Raven,” Nick spoke in the tone of instruction, “Concerning names in this world. We have many names here. I am Tsar or Nick or just the Red Thing …”
“Yes great one, I have two now. Raven Fireoak, and Seeker, thus I do not lie. Cat, Simon helped me with them. Do you like them?”
Mystic Raven interjected, “Neemeepu go through many names in our lives.”
Nick nodded at Mystic
Mystic Raven spoke, “Names Hold power … so it is a good thing to be careful with them. Raven is a powerful one in my culture and people so it is one to be proud of and cherished.”
“I was named out of my home. I was marked for greatness.” I said as I pulled meat from the box cooked it on the flame. Then I placed it on the prettiest plate I could find with the best glass filled with the warmed of milk next to it I offered Valoki food.
“The first is your true name,” Nick seemed pleased with the choice, “Personal to you and shared only to those you trust. The Seeker is your public name … used to those you don’t know or trust. Would you share your private name with her, Mystic Raven?”
I was shocked at the great one, “I have not earned the honor.”
Nick smiled “He is the judge of that.”
Mystic Raven looked nervous “I have many names … and we have just met …”
Nick rumbled deeply in his chest. It was almost like a pain to hold back is laughter, “Thee and Red Eagle are a pair, Mystic Raven.”
“Well we have meet before, “I corrected, “you where in my arms when the sky cried. During the first dark.”
Mystic Raven spoke, “But one I can share would be Wayatanatoo Kapskaps or Strong Fire in this tongue.”
“So you are a flame tongue?” I couldn’t believe my ears; he was of the flame. “Does it burn in you? Do you join with the trees?”
Mystic Raven “I am one with Raven who brought the Fire to man in the Dream times long ago.”
I was confused, “Raven brought the fire.” Was this what I was to do and part of what I would be? Was I in a place in space in time that I had been before later in my life?
Nick leaned back against the counter with a broad grin. Nick murmured “This is going to be fun …”
Mystic Raven continued, “The Spirits of the Trees are as my brothers as are with many who follow the six Grandfathers.”
“No we have seven mages that brought forth the flame to protect our people.” I corrected.
Mystic Raven replied, “Mitakuye Oyasin … We are all related.”
“The spirit of the trees keep us and burn endless for us,” I tried to explain. “And in the forest yes we are all related.”
Mystic Raven “The rooted Folk, The Spirit Folk, The Winged Folk, The Four Legged Folk, The finned Folk, and The Two legged Folk.”
I interrupted, “But not the great ones like Nick. They are above us.”
Nick dips another roll in the spread and munches, fascinated.
Mystic Raven finally realized my words and said, “So to me it would be 6.” He shrugged his shoulders. “To me and mine all are equal … we each have our own guides to assist us but that is when you listen to their call.”
I began to understand, “You are not of the flame but a carrier of the flame … Like a seeker not of the forest.”
Mystic Raven responded, “I am not sure what a seeker is … but I am a teacher and healer of my people …”
I smiled, “And me and mine are equal and we are one unto ourselves and whole unto each other.”
“Me thinks thou art not unalike …” Nick smirked.
“I am Raven of the fireoak forest, Seeker, Protector, Teacher and Mate.”
Mystic Raven agreed, “That sounds similar to the ways of the People …”
Nick seemed surprised, “Mate?
“Of course, A seeker is all things that one can be … oops, and Parent.” I felt the redness in forgetting the most important of all. “How could I forget that one?”
Mystic Raven spoke proudly, “I am Raven of the People, Teacher, Healer, and Guide … to follow your terms. With Neemeepu you have not one parent … a child is raised by the whole tribe.”
“Yes I agree,” I smiled at him; he was like a lost little brother. “One parent to raises you but the people help to tend to you.”
Mystic Raven seemed to soften in his words, “I am one blessed with many spirits so I would be more of a guide to peoples then a parent.”
“You are one who could learn but you did not pass.” I announced my thoughts. Damn the dark I slipped again.
Mystic Raven at first he didn’t notice my slip but it was not to go unnoticed, “Usually we have two who raise you and many who assist tending the future. What do you mean didn’t pass?”
Nick smiled in delight, “Why would he not pass, Daughter?”
“I seek mates for my people, protector of all that is not dark, teacher of our ways, parent of all the young.”
Mystic Raven seemed upset “I have had to pass many trials to become as I am now …” He opened his shirt revealing his broad chest with twin scars of the Sun Dance. “I do not know of what you speak but I am an accomplished Sun Dancer and Pipe carrier.”
I directed my response to Nick, “He would never be willing.”
“The Talisman judges this?” questioned Nick
I smiled softly at Mystic. We talked of my duty and how he could never be a mate. Of sweat lodges and the flame and so many many things that was close to the ways of my land and the way they wanted things but totally different and separate. Almost as if his people called upon the flame of life but failed where the mages of my land succeeded. Or was it just a lost seeker teaching and preparing a people to be found one day and taken home. There was so my different ways it could have been but it was the Raven that brought the flame and I was the only Raven of the forest. Would I go home and come back in the past of this land to prepare them?
The talk turned to all weather of the land and the places of wonder of the land. Mystic eyes seemed to lighten and almost sparkle as he talked about places he could take me when the weather became cold. Nick agreeing with him. The feel of the room was good, the talk was good, but I was far away in the eyes of green. How I wanted to just see them one more time. My head spun but my spirit was light from the talk and my veins burned, but this was still good.
The talk drifted to many things. A little information here and some there but nothing much to record. It started all over again when I spoke of the warehouse I wanted and how to find the money for it. Mystic didn’t like William’s idea of just moving in either. I thought that not right and it was confirmed. Upon the wing of the great one we flew to the warehouse with Mystic following close. The great one landed out front and shifted back into Nick and Mystic turned back to his human form.
I was like a child again. I had my home all picked out and was showing off my treasure. I ducked under the board opening the door and disappeared to the box of light. “Follow me!” I called back as I found the box and turned on the beams that flood the area in light. Nick was the first to enter.
“I can build the huts up there.” I pointed at the beams. I grabbed the chain that dangled from the above and climbed it as if I was home again. I swung on it making it near a beam and landed solid as if a branch.
Nick smiled, “Now I see what you mean, daughter.” Nick leaped to the beam beside me.
“See a few ropes will work like vines.”
Mystic Raven looked worried as he looked inside and back out to the street “This does not seem the safest environment though. Definitely not a good neighborhood.” Nick looked down at Mystic.
“It has everything the people of the green need.” I defended my treasure.
“Do not worry about this, Mystic Raven.”
I ran down the beam sure footed to the next and leaped across to the next beam. “What is not good about it? If you look just over there through that door it has the water that runs. My mates will learn to be protectors fast, than once the huts are built up here. They will be able to swoop down upon the dark ones. I can teach them the skills to live in the branches up here.”
Mystic Raven now was the one hiding a grin, “I am not that worried about you up there. I am more worried about the jackals that might wander in from the surrounding areas. Sadly most of this realm have forgotten their climbing and swinging skills.”
I jumped off the beam, pushing myself to the chain that was just a bit too far to reach, I sailed across feeling my quick descent but catching the chain. I sung on it and leaped to another beam. “I am a teacher I will teach them of our ways.”
I felt Nick’s eyes upon me as he spoke, “Has William seen this place.”
Mystic Raven grinned, “Nick, she needs to see some of the old Tarzan movies.”
I jumped off the beam rolled into a ball before I hit the ground and sprang back to my feet. “He is the one who brought me here. He says the rats taste better here. What is a rat?”
Nick spoke, “A scavenger.”
Mystic Raven replied, “Small rodent.”
“Is this not a wonderful place,” I could not hold my smile in, “not one dead tree here.”
Mystic Raven looked around “It shows a lot of potential.”
Nick dropped to the floor.
“We could till the earth over there. ” I ran to the place of earthen floor.
Nick kneeled next to me and placed one hand out spread on the floor.
Mystic Raven spoke doubtful, “Without special lighting I am not so sure they would grow well …”
“With this continual light they will flourish like in the flame.” I disagreed.
Nick closed his eyes and the very earth trembled as the concrete of the floor is pulverized to dust and the earth turned over in a wave, leaving soil a rich black.
I held my ears and soon as I heard the large rumbling of a train blowing it’s whistle streaking past, deafing all. When the train passed Mystic looked at me.
“Takes a bit of getting used to “he said shrugging his shoulders
Nick blew gently across the floor and a thick, lush carpet of green grass sprouts, covering the floor from wall to wall. I could not believe my eyes it was the most beautiful sight I had ever seen. I ran to the door and retrieved a dirty sign that William and I had found. Nick stood up and walked to the wall.
“See it says for sale or rent $3000 a month.” I showed him the sign where we had brushed the dirt off. Mystic Raven cringed at the price. I asked, “How hard could that be?”
“Depends on where one works … That is most of a month’s salary for me,” He took the sign and started to wipe it off more to reveal another zero, “Make that … a year’s salary for me.”
Nick placed both hands on the tired concrete of the walls. Nick pushed and vines sprouted, growing rapidly up from the earth hanging up into the rafters of the building. The vines thicken and sprout, fruit grew to maturity in seconds.
I squealed, “OH GREAT ONE! It is beautiful.” Mystic Raven looked over the variety of fruits. I climbed the vines and tossed fruit to Mystic.
Mystic Raven spoke,”Impressive green thumb you have there, Nick.”
Nick leaped into the rafters, landing lightly on a beam. Nick kneeled and placed a hand on the rusting steel. The metal seems to glow then expands in all directions, closing in most of the gaps between the beams. Nick lifted his hand and the metal turned to slate.
“Do you think I can earn the MONEY for this place? I can not keep asking the one I serve for all that I need.” I inquired.
Mystic Raven said, “Depends upon what you do … It would take me almost a year to make what this costs for one month.”
I spoke quickly, “I can sing and dance.” Mystic Raven opened his mouth then promptly shut it again, thinking better not to speak. I turned to Nick, “Great one, the more you do the more I know I must have this place.”
Mystic Raven looked at Nick “You field that one fella.”
Nick dropped to the ground. As he falls vines follow him to the floor at many points. The next train passed with barely a sound entering in. Nick walked to the exact center of the floor and raises his arms up over his head in a sweeping gesture. A fountain of water gurgled to the surface forming a clear pool about six feet across and a foot deep.
Mystic Raven “I like what you have done with the place Nick. But affording it and then the taxes will be murder.”
Nick picks up the sign, wiping it off and hands it back to Mystic. In the lower right corner of the sign are the words, “Property of Nicholas I. Ruby”.
I spoke again with out thought, “It needs to be warmer.”
Valoki scream, “Stop it Raven, he is doing what you ask for. Remember what dragons are like.”
Nick stepped over to the rear wall of the warehouse and drew a circle in the grass some 30 feet in diameter.
I just smiled at Nick. I could see why his Rogue could love him, but he was not for me I knew the one that was though I may never have him. Nick pulled the grass up in a single gesture and released it. Heated sands rain down into a depression, filling it and warming the entire room.
Even in the wonder of a New Forest, MY new home, MY warehouse forest, I could not escape the dark. The harsh words started when Drake showed up. He wanted just to be around and learn but he could be so irritating. He came in and challenged Mystic who took to protect me. I tried to explain to Mystic Drake was the one that hurt him on the first night and tried to explain to Drake this was the bird. But these males of the green I swear never listen. I ordered them not to spoil my new home or else. Trust me I meant it. If something dark were to be seeded in my warehouse forest I would do it my self by blasting both of them. Finally I got thorough to them. They both claimed down.
I went to Nick, “Nick how will I pay for this?” Nick picked up the sign and pointed to the name of “Nicholas I. Ruby” “Who is he?”
He just smiled, “I told you we of the green have many names?”
I felt playful, “You know him?” I could not hold my giggle back. So I tossed my arms around him and gave him a hug, laying a kiss on his cheek, he was so kind to me. “I now owe you more than ever.”
Nick altered his form slightly; he was dressed in a very expensive business suit with brilliantly polished wingtip shoes and a gold watch on a long heavy chain. “I purchase this building many years ago … I had forgotten I owned it. It was rotting away …”
The two where at it again. Drake whispering, and Mystic gathering energy. “Drake do not cause any evil in this new place or I will be the one who will hurt you.”
Nick peered at the two, “Do not fear, daughter.”
Again things where calm. I took off my boots and the jeans of the green. My living art of Dragon kin, exposed to the warmth of my new home I sat in the green grass and Nick sat with me. Mystic took in the sweet smells of the new home and sat too. I lifted my voice in a song of life. It echoed softly like in my home of flame and filled the souls of the three with me. Nick pulled out a flute and played to my song. My spirit lifted me and I danced for them as I sang.
When I finished and returned I looked at my discarded clothes and kicked my pants to hand. I forgot to ask. “Mystic do you have a nudity taboo also?” It was nice too finally find ones whom where more like my people. His people bathed in water together. I thought of my first bath with the aid of my green-eyed dream. Why did he come back in my mind? Why did he haunt my spirit? I slide my jeans back on and pulled my boots on.
Mystic Raven commented, “Well I was a bit surprised at how casual you were … but there are several colonies of folk who prefer to be as nature made them.”
“I have not learned all the ways of the green yet except the one.”
Mystic Raven questioned, “The one?”
“That I have to ask to wear less.”
Mystic Raven nods, “Many are uncomfortable about that yes.”
“You should consider it to be all, daughter,” Nick added, “It is safest that way.” I felt so good around the great one it was being with Josho again and I beamed my feels to him in a smile. So foolish I behaved. I am now not sure if it was the gratefulness in my heart or the burning in my veins that cause me to be so unwise towards the mighty beast.
Mystic Raven continued, “After all we would not want you to get into potential law troubles “
“I am trying but clothes of the green are heavy.”
Mystic Raven smiled, “Some are that way for warmth ”
“Yes, This I learned.”
Mystic Raven added, “And like you said how you react to the cold … it may not be such a bad idea.”
“Perhaps,” Nick said with deep thought as he stood offering his hand to me.
“But it soothed the burning,” I took his hand as if it was second nature.
“Burning?” Mystic seemed concerned, “are you ok???”
“Yes, I am fine.”
Nick pulled me to my feet. Nick held my hand and stepped back, eyeing me. I looked deep into the golden eyes. He questioned, “What color suites you?”
“I am raven and it is black.”
Nick turned me slowly as if in dance. I moved into the motion. Deep within me, I felt it was all part of a greater thing but I was to close to understand it. Mystic Raven grinned at us and I winked back at him. As Nick turned me, the jeans faded, altering shape, the tube top melded with my own native dressed. He smiled as warmth covered me, insulating me from the cold of the green. He stopped, the two of us facing each other, the jeans having changed to a body suit that hugged my skin like my living art, the weight of nothing. My marks of greatness blaze in the sunlight, the veil now as a small cloak draped across my shoulders.
Mystic Raven eyes danced at my image, “Impressive.”
“I give onto thee the warmth of this clothing though it seems nothing to you.” Great one spoke as he looked at his handy work and smiled.
I looked down at my self, at the new gift of the day. I was overwhelmed. “It is … More than I deserve.” But they both looked at me. I took a step back from Nick and tested the new suit with a standing back flip. It moved perfect with me. Mystic applauded my movement. I was lost in the moment with out a care.
Cat spoke on the radio and a request was made to bring him to my new home. He beamed in on the light but not the same as one Cufean used. Cat stood with gapping mouth at the lovely home Nick had made for my mates. Chatter was renewed within the walls and Nick walked away. I followed him and Valoki followed me. Nick went out to the yard it was barren and harsh to the eye. Nick looked across the bleak neighborhood, the junk and garbage surrounding the warehouse. I stood beside him.
A tall stone wall fairly leaped from the ground in sequence, one after another, traveling in seconds the perimeter of the property.
I looked uncertain of the wall, “Why do you give us a rim?”
Nick closed his eyes and shoots of oak sprout all around the yard, growing one hundred years in seconds. The grass of the warehouse floor seemed to flow like water out across the yard, all but crashing against the stone of the walls. “The rim protects, as it does in your world, daughter. None may pass it without your leave. None may come, save at your call.”
“So as long as I will them right of passing, they can come and go as they will?”
“Yes,” was all he said.
“I have a need to repay you,” I stated, “What can I offer you?”
Nick considered. “There is one thing but I cannot ask.” Nick smiled slightly, “I will tell you when you have satisfied your debt to me.”
“Can you give me a hint so I can offer? What is it that I could offer a great one for all the aid you have given to me.”
“You will know, Daughter.” His words sound so tender. “When you have fulfilled my desire.”
“I will learn to understand.” I pledged.
Nick looked deeply into my eyes and I back into his. I could not read them. He nodded with a little smile. “You will do, Daughter, you will do. ” I smiled but stayed deep in thought.
Valoki screamed, “What are you doing? He is a dragon! Wake up!”
I broke the search in his eyes, I had gotten lost in the peace and chaos of his golden eyes. Yet I saw nothing.
Valoki landed on my shoulder and laughed at me. “Yeah if you want to lay a dragon baby, how about me? At least I am not going to use you as a snack afterwards. I can see it now you the mother of Drake. Think! Female. What is it that you will do? He will have you and take your seed and you will be his slave like when in the dark. He will want his payment they all do. You have just built a payment beyond you. You will be sorry for toying with him and taking his gifts.”
I could stand it no more I swatted Valoki off my shoulder. He stopped his fall and flew into a tree that Nick made. In terror I thought, “I hit the kin of a dragon in front of a great one. I am done for.”
Nick had watched us. He looked up at Valoki. “Has he stopped teasing you, Daughter?”
“For now,” I said sadly, “he will get me later. He says I will be sorry …”
Valoki screamed in my mind, “Great!! Now you are going to make me a dragon cookie. Gee thanks.”
“Sorry for what?” Nick glanced up at the dragonette.
I looked at my boots and Valoki hid in the branches from his stare.
“Speak, Daughter.” He commanded.
“Sorry that I trust,” I spoke to my feet. I did not want to betray my friend or keep things from the great one, “He is just upset. He means nothing by it.”
Nick scowled and turned to look up at the sides and roof of the warehouse. My eyes lifted and watched his movements. I was filled with fear of him for the first time. Valoki was right. I owed this dragon more than myself and more than my seed. He could claim what he wanted from me as payment. I had nothing to give him he had all.
He turned to meet my gaze. His eyes flickered with a spark of something, but it was not good. “It is time I returned to Rogue.”
I did not drop my eyes and spoke quickly, “Give her greetings from me.”
“I shall.”
He disappeared as I spoke, “Thank you great one.” Valoki landed on my shoulder chattering away on the mess I was making in the green. I walked in the building.
Cat got a few directions, hugged me and bounded off in leaps to find the school. Mystic had agreed to live here in my warehouse forest but Cat needed the emptiness of the manor. I so wanted all I cared for, including the Great one and his Rogue to share this forest as there own home, not as guest but part of the whole. Life after I leave the green, would still be celebrated with them in the walls of the warehouse forest and it would be good. My spirit sank a little, I had angered the great one and that is a dangerous thing to do.
Only me and Mystic where left in the warehouse forest and we needed to get back to the Mansion to retrieve my stuff. He took my arm and we walked the street to find a thing he called a bus. Some where I heard a cry to me. I stopped to listen. I opened my minds eye to the one who called.
“I am being called.” I spoke out.
“Where?” Mystic looked around.
I walked to a stone building that was decayed. “Up there.” I pointed. I went the door that was half off. As I pulled it went crashing to the floor. I walked into the rubble of this place. Inside there was the smell of mold and mildew and a faint odor of something putrid. The cry was weak and called to my spirit. I had to find it.
Mystic sent forth power and shifted into an owl. I looked for a vine or rope but only the steps that where weak offered me a way up to the cries. I started up with Mystic carefully ascending with me. Valoki also was on wing but held back to watch the entry of this place.
Only a few more steps and I would make. The cry stop and I opened my mind quickly to find the young mind, it was growing dim. The odor was getting stronger and my stomach pleaded to release but I swallowed hard and pushed forward. The mind laid behind a door. I tried to open it but it was not moving so I kicked it. Mystic was once again in his man form.
On a mattress that covered most of the floor lay the body of a young woman, curled up next to her was a small child no more then a few months old. I touched the woman with both my hand and mind and saw the flame had left her. I took up the child in my arms and examined it.
I strip away the soiled cloth around his legs and clean him up. His curly brown hair pasted to his head and for a moment he opened his soft brown eyes. I wrapped him up in the cleanest of the things around. I took one of my last berries and squeezed it into his lips. My son must live.
I spoke quickly, “The flame has left the bearer … All praise her. Her seed will live.” I pleaded to the flame to help him for I was his parent now.
Mystic Raven chanted some prayers for passing over the mother.
“I need to return the mansion. I will place him in the glass case” I cradled my son in my arms.
“I suggest we hurry. We are far from the mansion? “
“I can go to John, let’s hurry.”
“John who?”
I did not reply I had need for my son, no, our son. If he would claim the boy to his would be protected for all times. I gingerly descended the stairs. Mystic followed quickly keeping to the sides of the steps.
Mystic Raven spoke his concerns while I moved quickly, “The child will also need fluids as well as nourishment. ”
Just a few blocks a way stood a house, surround by what looked like a junk yard. “John lives here. He can take us to the mansion.” I knocked on the door hard.
“KEEP YOUR PANTS ON!” came the voice from within.
“Sir John! I need thy help.”
“Fur Christ sakes!” he swung the door open, “What? Raven? What is it, girl?” the old man squinted at her, eyes not being as they use to be. “What have you gotten your self into now?”
I pleaded, “I need a ride to the place we took the car. My son needs aid. Please you collect all these very fine carts.”
“Son?” John peered closer at the bundle in her arms. “Sure, sure, come on.” John turns and fumbled around inside before emerging with a ring of keys.
Mystic Raven “With your permission Sir … may I help you?” Mystic started chanting thanks to sa’qant’ yx s’a qan to help this Elder see.
John led us to a battered old tow truck and pulled open the door. “Git in, girl, you too, sonny” John rubs his eyes as they seem to focus better today. I climbed in with my son.
“Yes, Elder,” Mystic said with respect as he climbed in next to me.
John circled the truck and climbed in. I placed a kiss upon John’s cheek. The interior of the truck is nearly as bad at the exterior. I spoke softly to my child as she held him to my breasts. John slipped the key into the ignition and pumps the gas only twice, with a twist the engine roars to life, as smooth as velvet. John jammed the truck into gear and backed up, skidding to a stop before ramming it into 1st and taking off like a bat out of hell.
“What happened to the kid, Raven?” he leans forward, intent on his driving
“The bearer died,” I paused, “He called to me. He will be called Josho. I will be his parent but I already told you of our ways.”
John hits the top of the freeway ramp doing 80. “Aye, ya did, but I didn’t ‘spec you to have that kid so quick.”
I looked tenderly at the old man, “We of the forest work fast.”
John geared down and roars off the freeway, hitting the light at the bottom of the ramp on the yellow. Mystic quietly kept chanting prayers to every spirit he could think of to help watch over our trip. John did a power slide around the last corner and stond on the brake as the truck reaches the front of the mansion
Mystic Raven took a deep breath, “Impressive Elder. “
“Okay, sonny, move your ass,” John barked, “You’re hold up traffic!”
Mystic popped the door and shoulders it open. He bailed out to clear the path John does the same on the other side and circles the truck.
I jumped out and ran quickly into the house and into the medical lab. “Spock if you can hear me speak to me now!” I demanded. “My son dies I need you.” I placed my son in a case. “SPOCK!”
“Yes, Raven?” Spock replied calmly
“How do I turn on the case? My son dies.”
Spock questioned, “The case?”
“The glass case of healing.”
“The Autodoc.” He stated.
“Please answer me.”
Mystic Raven and John entered the room. Mystic looked around to see where the other voice was coming from.
“What do I press?”
Spock still was calm. “Have you placed your son in the autodoc?”
“Yes.”
“Close the lid.”
“I have done it, now what?”
Slowly the invisible friend took me through the steps needed for my son. My heart raced as I watched the baby through the glass. Valoki took guard upon the case and reassured me he would protect the child as he would protect me. Mystic offered drinks and went to fetch them.
“Spock can I have some money to reward John. His service was great.” My eyes never left the child.
“How much do you require?” Spoke asked.
“Whatever a life is worth to our master.” I replied.
John put his hand on my shoulder, “The boy gonna be alright, girl?”
I turned to him, his face so kind and I tossed my arms around him and kissed him on the cheek, whispering in his ear as I pulled back tears. “Thanks to you he will.”
Spock interrupted, “The Master of the Wild Hunt values life of another above his own, Raven.”
Raven thought, “Then ask him how much he would give to one that save my son.”
John shook his head, “I don’t need no money for this, girl, long as your boy’s okay.”
“You did a great deed,” I smiled, “I can not give you medals or honors but the green money I can request for your pleasure.”
I looked back at my little one, my spirit pleaded to hold the child. It would take time before I could feel the coolness of the tiny one against me. Mystic returned to us with drinks for all. Spock gave the okay to remove my son from the box if I was careful not to remove the IV’s in his arm. Mystic pulled up a chair for me as I lifted my little one and placed him in my arms.
Drake walked in the room. He looked at the collection and than at me with child. “Who’s that?”
I looked up at him, “He is my son, Josho.”
“Your son? Who’s the father?”
I looked at Mystic, if he was to claim him now was the time, “A Son … to be known as Josho.” Mystic said proudly.
Drakeon glanced from Raven to Mystic to the baby to Mystic. “How? You have not been here that long and he has been unconscious for a while. You had him in a week?”
“We elves work fast. All things come in time and on a wing of a dragon. What does time matter?” I smiled at my happy little son.
Ghost Archer materialized a few feet away. He was dressed in his combat clothes, carrying the bow, the katana across his back and along his side a quiver full of arrows.
Drake announced, “GA did you know that Raven and that man had a child?” He pointed at Mystic.
“WHAT!”
Ghost Archer looked at the child and me. I raised my eyes to his green one and my fire burned at just the sight of his, my blood boiled, I tore them away quickly rocking my son.
Mystic again proudly announced our son, “A Son … to be known as Josho.”
“What is this about a reward for saving your son?” Archer questioned.
“This is John,” I raised up but could not quite reach John for the baby IV’s, “He save my child’s life. He should be honored in the land of green.”
Ghost Archer offered a hand to the older man and shakes his hand solemnly. John took the hand and said, “I don’t need a reward. Helping, my Raven is reward enough.”
Mystic spoke up, “He was very integral in getting us here in time.”
Archer again looked at me and I had to turn my eyes, “What happened, Raven?”
“I am wondering how they did it so fast. ” Drakeon smirked, “I thought it took nine months to have a baby.” Drakeon leaned against the waiting to hear my story.
“My son needed help,” I spoke softly, “and John brought us here, for your technology, like on a dragon’s wing he drove us here.”
Mystic Raven grinned, “Definitely a double E ticket ride on that one too.”
Ghost Archer looked closely at the child in Raven’s arms and the tube still connected to the Autodoc. I keep my eyes only on the baby. Holding my treasure and loving him. Ghost Archer desolidified the bow, quiver and katana.
I continued, “I only requested Spock for a reward. I did not wish to bother you with this.”
Archer listened and than asked, “What sort of reward?”
“In the forest he would be carried among the branches and a feast would be presented to him and goods given in honor. I thought trade of the green … Money. John is a man of honor and should be honored.”
Ghost Archer frowned slightly, “I see.”
Again John spoke, “Don’t want no money from you girl! My reward is seeing your smile.”
Mystic Raven added, “The thought was of properly compensating, this Honorable Gentleman, for his time and effort on behalf of this child.”
Ghost Archer held up both his hands “Will someone tell me where this child came from?”
“He is mine”, I stated firmly.
“Mystic Raven, can you clear this up?” Archer voice seemed on edge.
I added, “Anything can happen in time.” I smiled at the baby as he gurgled.
Archer began, a looked of anger showed on his face and his hand clenched in a fist. I looked at him and wondered why he was so mad. His voice raised and demanded from me, “Raven, where did you find him?”
I could not refuse or directly lie to him. I answered, “He called to me and I did go.”
Archer voice still strong, “And where is his birth mother?”
“Her flame went out long ago,” I changed the subject, “He will live in my warehouse forest and be a strong one. Spock can I take him from here yet?”
Ghost Archer rubbed his head “Go to Russia for a couple of days and all hell breaks loose.”
Mystic Raven spoke up, “I have accepted this child and He is considered of my bloodline in traditional manners.”
“Mystic could you gather my things and put them in Cat’s Corvette. I only have a few bags.” I requested softly.
“Where are they located?” Mystic inquired,
“Upstairs first door on the right in the corner of the room.” Mystic Raven heads off to gather Raven’s items.
Archer steps over to the Autodoc and punches a few buttons. I watched him in silence my veins burning just to watch him move. Damn my spirit.
Archer’s voice was strange as he spoke to me, “Raven, you have at least another hour before the child … Josho, will be able to leave this room …”
John piped up, “I have to get a running.” He bent down and kissed the baby with a smile and than my forehead.
Archer turned and faced the man, “John, she is right, I do want to do something for you.”
John replied, “No reward is needed, I did what I did ’cause it was right to do for the lady. I got to go. Take care and don’t forget to visit me.” He waved as he headed out the door.
Archer turned to me, leaning against the ‘doc.” You may as well get comfortable, you have a while longer.”
My hands shook lightly nervous as I wrapped the baby in another blanket. Archer commanded. “Spock, get me a baby bottle and a soy based formula.” My eyes drifted slightly over to look him. Ghost Archer picked up the bottle that appeared on the lid of the ‘doc. “He needs to eat something, Raven, something more then the liquid going into his arm.” He spoke softly.
I looked up into his green eyes and tore from them quickly. I offer my only treasure to him, “Would you like to hold him?”
Archer smiled softly and spoke just as sweet, “Yes, if I may.”
“A little one need juice of the acorn tree,” I gently laid my child in the hands of my dream, was this wrong of me? I looked in the eyes of my son and smiled. “He will always be my spirit’s joy.”
Archer cradled my baby in the croak of one of his arms. Josho look even smaller in the powerful arm. Archer dug under the layer of blankets I had wrapped him to reveal his face better. I reached over and ran my fingers through my child’s tightly kinked hair. He picked up the bottle and placed it to the baby’s lips. Josho sucked the bottle and was drinking way to fast.
Valoki hissed. In my mind he spoke, “Tread softly, he is not to be trusted.”
“Yes Valoki, I will.”
“Tell me all about him, Raven.” He requested.
“John or Josho?”
Archer smile, “Let’s talk about Josho first.”
“He is my son. What more is there to say.”
Archer gently bounced the baby as he ate.
“Careful,” I warned, “He might spit the food you feed.”
“He might, his little tummy is not used to food.” Archer agreed, “The Autodoc said he hadn’t eaten in nearly two days. At this age that is very dangerous.”
“I feed him berries on the way … It lies.”
Archer looked closely at the baby’s mouth and spots the smear of berry. “Raven, lov, I need to know where this little guy came from. This country is very strict about its children.”
My ears where playing tricks on me or my blood twisted my mind. For a moment I thought he called me love. I pushed the mistake from me. I told him of the building, “As we walked from the warehouse forest I heard him calling me. We entered into ruins of the steel and stone.” I wanted my son, was he going to take him from me? “May I have him back?” I made an excuse, “His tummy has gas.” I pointed out the faces the baby made as it finished the bottle way too soon.
Archer removed the bottle and sat it on the table. My eyes come up and meet those of green. I was totally lost in them. He smiled and my bones ached from the burning. I closed my eyes and pleaded to the flame for help under my breath.
Archer looked at me and inquired, “Pardon?”
“Nothing of greatness lord,” If he did not burn he would not understand. “My son needs a burp
Archer lifted the child from the crook of his arm and handed to me. I patted his back and a strong burp came forth almost immediately, with a little spit up too. I laughed as the moisture ran down my new suit.
“Is he not a wonder of joy.” My spirit was light in thought of my son and held him close to my bosom. “Do you need to know anything else?”
“All children are wonders. Especially those pulled from the jaws of death.” His smile so soft so sweet.
“He called and I answered. I will “Love” him all the days of my flame. He will grow into a strong man and be a proper mate for our people.” I looked at the now sleeping babe. So peaceful, so pure did he look as he slept.
Archer put his hand on my shoulders and gently turned me to the chair and pushed me down into it. Ever inch of me tingled as his hands touched me. I dared not to say a word or raise my eyes but did as he motioned. My blood called for him but he had his love I was to late.
Archer dropped to his knees in front of me and he lifted my eyes and stared into them as he spoke, “This is the curse of my world, Raven.”
I could not turn away I could not break from him. My burning increased. I wanted him so much. I tried to contain my self and asked him of the curse. He pulled open the blanket, breaking the trance he held on me and looked at the tiny boy in my arms.
“He is a blessing.” I stammered.
“You are the blessing.” He replied
“He will be my tomorrows.” I spoke proudly as his eyes caught me again.
Archer had a note of sadness in his tone, “My world has far too many children just like this … one’s that die because a loving heart doesn’t hear their cries.”
“I will answer all I hear and I will tend to the needs of all of those I collect.”
Archer rested a hand on my arm and watched my eyes. I knew my eyes burned with the flame and it increased to his touch.
“I have no doubt of that,” he said so sweetly it was almost a song, “You can save a few and I will help you.
I had to make clear my position here in the green, “I will take your help but I must do. I am the Seeker.”
His green eyes looked down at the child again. He bent over his hair bushing me as he gently kissed the boy’s forehead. He raised his eyes they where sparkling with a happiness, I had not seen before.
“If we save one … it is worth it.” He stated.
I lowered my eyes, letting my hair cover my face. The pain was becoming too much. He stayed balanced on the balls of his feet, one hand still on my arm to steady himself.
“What of this warehouse that Drakeon mentioned?” He was back to questions.
My veins burned. “It is my new home. It is where I will train my new people. If you wish I will show it to you.”
“You will not be living here?” he asked but than nodded, “I would like to see your home.”
“I can not bring others into this place. When William came all eyed him in mistrust. I am sure he will care for Josho till I get more females to come with me. Would you like to drive Cat’s car?”
Archer smiled “It moves?”
“Yes, I did a good trade for him”
“Amazing….”
“John sold it to me and Nick made it shinny.”
“Nick, huh?”
I defended my trade, “But it always moved like riding on a dragons wing. When can my son move? Is it time yet, lord?”
Archer stood up and glancing at the monitor. I took the time of his distraction to wipe the tears from my eyes but I stayed with my eyes covered by my hair.
“It will be a few more minutes.” He returned to squatting before me, arms rested on his knees
We spoke at the same time I stated “I need to get a small bed like the ones you like so much here …”
Archer stated ” You’ll need some supplies …”
I raised my head. My eyes slightly red but with a smile on my lips I looked up at him.
He reached out and touched my cheek. “Why do you cry, Raven?”
Valoki paced the tabletop hissing and moaning and scratching. In my mind he shouted “You are foolish don’t tell him. He is going to hurt you again. Please, Raven don’t do.”
“I … I,” I couldn’t answer. I dropped my head again. “I am sorry if it bothers you. Forgive me. I will try not to let it happen again.”
Archer covered my hand with his. “Will you ever stop apologizing to me?” He sighed.
“I can’t seem to do anything right around you. I always …” I lost my words, “I mean … Well you see?”
Archer spoke softly, “For two people of the same race, you would think we could understand each other better.”
I looked at my baby, MY son. “He will love me.” I said aloud.
Archer did not understand but replied, “Of course he will.”
“Is it time yet?” I requested.
He glanced up at the monitor. “Patience, lov, patience.” He spoke.
My ears where playing tricks. Surely he did not say it. I begged, “Say that again please …”
“Patience?”
I dropped my head again it was just my wishful thinking.
“Lov?” he said again.
I barely could speak, “Why do you say that to me?”
Archer frowned. “Why did I say ‘lov’?”
“You have a love and she is not me.”
“Hm …” he started to explain, “This is going to be …”
I interrupted, “It will be nothing. I understand.”
“No, I not think you do because I don’t.”
“You have your love to bear your seed!”
“No, I don’t”, he denied even though I know what I had seen with my own eyes.
“I heard you say it, I saw the two of you.” I had to confront the dark, it was the only way the light could shine.
“Sable and I aren’t in love. We may fall in love in the future.” He paused, “I don’t know.”
My spirit wanted so much to believe his words “Love is the most hardest thing to understand.” The monitor beeped like the micro wave Nick showed me. Archer looked at the monitor. I asked again, “Is it time lord?”
“Yes.”
Mystic Raven wandered in, “The ‘vette is loaded and ready when you are Raven “
“Please help me remove the wire.”
Archer opened the blanket and carefully sliped the needle from the baby’s arm. I smiled sweetly at Mystic, the daddy my son needed in the green. Archer held a small ball of cotton to the wound
“When we get this load to our home you can bring in your stuff, Mystic.”
“That will take several trips to do.”
“The walls with doors and locks are all yours and me and Josho will be in the beams.” I smiled at the thought of returning to a place so close to my own home.
Archer was confused, “Walls? Beams?” I think I liked Archer better that way.
I smiled, “You will see, Lord.”
Archer grinned, “Ah … and Raven? Please stop calling me ‘Lord’.”
I looked at him, “I serve you … What title of respect do you wish?”
Ghost Archer suggested, “How about Aaron?”
I agreed, “As you wish, Sir Aaron.”
Ghost Archer smiled and squeezed my arm. Archer laughed softly. “Now I understand Rogue’s Lady phobia.
Mystic Raven stood quietly and waited. Valoki scream in a ferrous little roar.
Archer leaned close to me, “Did someone put a burr under Valoki’s saddle?”
I bundled the baby in yet another blanket. “Yes.”
He looked at me and said, “Oh?” I just walked out with Mystic to the car.
When the talk finally settled we had Mystic driving, Archer flying, Drake teleporting and me and the baby riding like the wind to the new warehouse forest. I started to sing a song but Mystic started his own. He sung a song to our son that sounded as old as the flame. We drove up the warehouse. It still looked as when I first saw it. We drove the car through the gate and closed it. All was as Nick had made it. Archer landed next to the car opening the door.
Archer offered me an arm and I lifted the baby to one arm and took it. My blood boiled but I could not resist. Valoki landed in the trees as we entered the warehouse forest. I laid the baby in the green grass. I ran and jumped to the nearest vine climbing it and swing to the ripen fruit. I tossed a few down to Archer who sat next to my child. Mystic had brought in my things and joined Archer. I swung from vine to vine till I felt my blood cool a little and landed near them. I laid on my tummy next to my son. Drake joined us. The forest was warm so I took off the three layers of blankets that kept my son warm. Josho kicked happily.
Archer decided we needed to get the supplies since Josho had messed his clothes. I left Josho in the care of his daddy, his Father, his protector. Archer offered his arm and I took it. We walked up the street and I lead him. I spoke of the things I need to get done now that I had a child and my duty and everything except the feeling that burned in me.
We approached John’s place and I pointed it out to Archer and he pulled me there. He wanted to visit. He looked at all the cars disappointed in what he sawed till I showed him the heart of one. It was all shinny and new like the outside of cat’s car. We knocked on the door and John invited us in making sure to claim his a hug from me.
“Ain’t everyday a man my age gets a hug like this.” John teased.
I showed off all the pictures of John and his wife, his daughter, and his brothers. All of them gone except in the pictures he kept of the feelings that burned inside the heart of John. Archer asked of them and I explained that all the flame had left and he was alone. Archer asked if John was willing to go to my forest and John agreed but didn’t think they would take an old fart. Archer took the man’s hands and years started to faded from the old face. My head spinned, my fire burned, the pain ached, and the darkness came.
I opened my eyes to his looking in mine. It took me a moment but there next to him was the man of the photo the young John. He wanted to know what happened. I, my self wasn’t sure. It could be the burning. It could be that food was not settling right. Or was it the shock of the magic that he held. I took my tailsman and held it up to John. A beautiful flaming tree appeared. I reminded Archer of the quest for things for Josho. We made our good byes.
As we walked from the house, Archer grabbed my arm and stopped me.
“Raven, are you alright?” he seemed concerned.
I knew there was nothing that was nothing medically wrong with me so I answered, “I am healthy. Why so you ask?”
“You look tired …” he lost his words.
I had to ease his mind, “Your land of green moves too fast and things happen and rest periods are not restful.” How could I tell him of the burning and the pain and the problem with food. That would worry him.
Ghost Archer pulled me into his arms, holding me tightly. “Then let’s save a little time so you can sleep.” He lifted into the air, rapidly climbing to about 100 feet before leveling off and heading back toward the mansion. I melted in his arms, resting my head to hear his heart beating strong. He added, “If you are going to be a mother, you have to take better care of yourself.” As he flew, I felt his lips his the top of my head. My heart raced.
Archer looked around and spotted a Wal-Mart. He dropped behind the store, out of sight, setting me on my feet. I looked into his eyes and I burned for him. I dare not move else he might remove his hold from my body. I just wanted his touch. He slowly released me. He touched my clothes and changed them.
“Aaron.”
Archer was pleased, “Yes?”
I looked into his eyes. I so much want to tell him. Valoki has stayed with my son he did not hiss or scream for me to stop, “Can you please lower your ear to me.” He leaned over and I kissed his cheek, as I was about to speak a truck rumble pass us and I pulled away from him. No, I could not tell him. I sighed heavy and spoke, “I guess we should enter the hut of trade.”
He agreed. We picked up many things for the baby. By the time we left I could have supported all the babies in the forest. I pushed the burning as far as I could but it still came back to me every time I saw his smile. With two carts of stuff for the baby we left the store of trade and went back around the back. He took me into his arms and called Spock to carry us back to my warehouse forest.
When we arrived back I greeted Mystic who still had your son in his arms. I think these men will spoil my little treasure. Little brother was there and I gave him a hug.
Mystic Raven reported, “Our son has mostly behaved well.”
I beamed back, “We have lots of things for him.”
Archer added, “Only the necessary things …” but fell silent when I pulled out the little Indian out fit and booties.
Mystic Raven chuckled, “Cute outfit.”
I grabbed the crib with one arm and scaled a vine with the other. Archer just watched as if amazed at something though I really can’t think what. I tied the crib into the vines to make sure it would never slip and descended to gather more.
By the time I approached the grouping I was out of breath and my strength near gone I laid on my back and motioned for my son to have Archer lay him on my chest. Josho cool chocolate brown skin and small body took some of the heat of the burning from me. I closed my eyes humming to him softly.
“I think Josho is ready for a nap.” Mentioned Archer.
I went to my feet, “I will take him up.”
I went to a vine, with baby in arm and starts a much slower rise up. I shifted a little and finally reach the beam and entered my hut. Archer leaped up beside me. I entered in the hut of three walls and there was way to much stuff. The fourth wall of my hut rolled up and down to allow entry and exit.
I smiled at Archer. “Do you like my home.”
Archer kneeled at the entrance. He was so tall. Archer smiled as he spoke, “It’s a marvelous place.”
“Come inside.” I requested.
Archer smiled, pointing at the now sleeping baby.
“Just go over there.” I point to the corner.
Archer said, “I think you need to join your son.” He moved to the corner.
I dropped the fourth wall, “Not yet. ” I had to speak with him. “I guess I forgot about the sounds of life in the forest.” I could hear the comments the men made down below.
Cat called up to us, “Can I have the baby?”
I yelled back down, “He’s asleep.”
Archer laid his hand on the baby and smiled. “He’s a lucky little boy to find you.”
“Do you believe that?”
Archer spoke seriously, “Yes, I truly do.”
“Tell me what you believe,” I sat on my sleeping mat and Archer took a lotus position. I continued, “This time tell me the truth.” I looked deep into his eyes I needed to know the truth.
“What would you like to know?” he asked.
He toyed with me, he was good at these games but I was learning, “You know.” I looked into his green eyes and lost myself in them. The fire burned but I had to see the truth in his eyes and not in the words I wanted to hear.
“Sable?” he asked. The hurt flashed through me even at her name I pushed it down. “Sable is … I don’t know what she is,” he paused, “In my world, she would be called the ‘rebound’ lover.”
“I would rather take the vial of death than to hurt you.” I paused, “I have not found rebound lover in my search. What is one?”
“When someone losses the one they love, many times when they take another lover it is to try to fill that emptiness in their heart.” he explained. I nodded I understood the lost and emptiness of it. He continued, “Many times it is just for the physical relationship, being able to hold someone and not sleep alone. Sometimes it grow into true love … sometimes not.”
“Than why use the scared words on her and now me if you do not truly feel it.” I looked into his eyes wanting to know.
“Our world is more free with ‘sacred’ words … “, He paused, “It does not mean that they are not meant, but it doesn’t always mean they are.”
I had to know, it hurt to much not to, “You have called me love three times today, which meaning do you have.”
“I don’t know. I truly don’t.”
Hope grew within me. “Something in you calls to me.”
“I don’t know if it is blood or the fact you are stunningly beautiful or if it is the beginning of something far deeper.”
I wondered about being beautiful … I was so odd looking for one of my land. I changed the subject, “Did you get the message of the stone?”
“The stone?” My dream asked.
“The dream stone. I asked Nick to finish the message of the stone.”
Archer pulls a chain out of the collar of his shirt, from it hangs a tiny rod of deep blue and the Dream Stone. “He said nothing.”
“You must not lose it, you must not keep it but give it to your dream when it comes in full else your dream will die.” I knew I had not said the same as I was told but that was so long ago. Archer closed his hand over the stone. I continued, “It is a gift and can only be received as a gift.”
Archer’s voice shook as he spoke, “I am afraid to look into it.”
I didn’t understand the fear he spoke of, “It tells of what will be. Even though we can’t always understand what it is that we see.”
“That is what I am afraid of.” He seemed so far away. “What if I look into it again and see the same as last time?”
I told the story Josho told me, “My birth mother gave it to my birth father and he to me. She received it from her father that was given to him by his mate, she was given it by her first mate. I have looked into your eyes since I was a fresh young and ever since Josho gave it to me. I never thought I would really ever see you. Josho told me he thought it was my mother, he saw till I was deemed a young and he saw only me in it.”
“Then is becomes clearer?” he asked.
“Yes” was all I could say.
“Sharper and more defined?” his words pleaded in his request.
“The closer you are to reaching the dream.” I nodded in agreement. I wanted him to know my heart. “Ever since you told me of love I have studied on it.”
“What have you found?” he spoke right on cue but my spirit became confused and I lost my words. He added, “Raven … Thistle told me once that I have a great capacity to love. Since I lost her, I have felt empty.”
“She was your true love.” I stated but my face in a question.
“Yes,” he whispered as he nodded. He closed his eyes to the tears.
My spirit was ripped by the pain he felt. I wanted to comfort him. “She will always be yours, like Alice will be forever John’s. That love I would never want to go away.” I took a tear from him and placed it on my lips. By the flame let me ease his pain and take it into myself. I spoke once more, “Her spirit is in you and you are one.”
He pulled back his tears, “I just want the hurt to go away … and yet, I don’t. It reminds me that I am alive.” I reached to his cheek once more taking the tear that held his pain and put it to my lips.
“You might not believe me,” I began, “But I know the burning flame in the veins and the want for only one. If I can not have him, I will take none and that leaves me empty as the land of the cold with the snow and ice stretched out in the vastness of the burning death.”
He nodded but I wonder if he really understood.
My spirit ached so. I needed to find a way to tell him, “I have to tell you.” I paused, “I need to tell you.” His eyes raised up and stared at me. He reached out and took my hand. So the sweet feel of his hand upon mine. His skin on my skin. I shook myself of the burn that burned and continued, “I am Raven of the Fireoak Forest, Seeker, protector, teacher, parent and will never be a mate except unto the one I love.” The tears welled up in my own eyes. What if again he rejects me? I could no longer hold it inside of me. I knew what I felt and knew I must tell him. “Cufean, I love you.” The tears rolled down my face. “Do with this knowledge as you wish but my spirit will not change, it will be bound to you for all times.”
Archer: kissed the back of my hand and whispered “You give me hope that love is not dead in me. Can you give me time, Raven? To sort myself out? To learn my own heart once more?”
I took my free hand and stoked his hair neatly tucking behind his ears. I could not refuse him. He was my dream. I ran my finger along the edge of his wonderful elven ear, he moved into my touch and I realized what I was doing.
‘I will do anything for you. Even lay on the altar to die in your place.” I so much wanted him to know the depth of the spirit he had taken in me. His eyes closed and pain and anguish filling his soul. I kissed his forehead and took more of his tears to my lips. “I will not say it again but you already know …” I couldn’t finish my sentence for I wasn’t sure I could stay quiet for the rest of all time.
Archer looked into my eyes, “I must go …” he said with a tone of wanting to stay. I was fixed into his eyes and all that was in me escaped through the windows of green of mine own. He rolled to his feet.
“Keep safe and may the flame protect you.” I pulled back from the endearment I wanted to say and finished in his title of the human, “Good night, Aaron.” I dropped my eyes from his feeling again I had misspoke to him. Could I never get anything right in this land of green?
Archer swallowed hard and disappeared through the fourth wall. My tears flowed from my eyes. Archer leaped off the platform, landing lightly in the grass. He called his bow and quivers from their desolid state stalking out of the building into the night air. He griped the bow, his knuckles growing white from the intensity of his grip.
Mystic Raven watched as archer left and I heard him ask, “Going hunting Ghost?”
Archer gazed up into the oak tree before him for a long moment. His anger welling. He scowled at the two interlopes and leapt into the air. Seconds later a sonic boom rumbled through the night skies.
Mystic and Drakeon came back into the warehouse. They questioned me of my tears but my spirit hurt so. Drakeon tried to cheer me up with a thought of calling Nick to give me a ride. Because of their concern for me I took my sleeping baby and left my hut to lay by the warm sands so they could watch over me.
The four of us gathered by the sand. Josho asleep in Mystic’s arms. He was ever so watchful over us both. His offer to teach always on his lip and his heart reaching out to those who understands the simple wonder of its workings. I laid down and front of him covering myself with my Cufean’s cloak.
Drake walked outside as Mystic began to sing to me. “Lost the song, Lost the words, Lost the tongue, Lost the skill to read the tracks, Lost the skill to mark the trail, Lost the symbols to read the spoor of others, Lost the pictures that once replaced them, Lost the voices that told us we did not need them, Lost the Earth for want of the song. Ahija … The new songs stained the soles of our shoes; the new song bathed us. We drank the new songs. We breathed them, taking them into ourselves for life and for life to the song giving forth breathe. The new songs spoke to us in the new tongues .The howl of a wolf, the curly coated’s whinny, the foxes bark. The new song walked on the feet of the cat. It spoke of it’s secrets in the death-squeal of the rabbit, It sings it’s secrets from it’s own mouth, To the ears of those who still can listen, Let’s not leave it to sing alone any longer, But go to the Center and add our voices, to keep it company for awhile And learn from it new harmonies. Aja ji.” Mystic Raven kept humming over the child Josho and me, letting the song settle around us as he finished. “Raven … we have used song to transfer knowledge from generation to generation … that is the easiest way I know to try to help.”
I laid with my eyes closed drifting in and out. I could hear his song and his words. But mind played tricks on me. I heard the Great one speaking, “Only sweet dreams for thee this night, Daughter.” I faded off into the world of dreams. The dreams became nightmares and the burning ached with in me. Again I heard a deep voice of a dragon creeping in. “Dream now of what will be.” The darkness left and the fear disappeared and again I had my dream of life. Flashes of green eyes unto mine, strong embrace and tender kisses. I slept well.