By and copyright of Owen Quinn author of the Time Warriors and Zombie Blues
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“The Celts are master storytellers,” he reassured her. “It’s just Halloween except the supernatural is as real to them as this house.” He smiled. “There’s nothing to be afraid of. Besides, what if it is real? Wouldn’t that be amazing?”
“When does it start?” asked Tyran.
“At midnight the bone fires will be lit as the veil falls. The slain animals bones will be fed to the flames and every home will be lit from that. The souls of our loved ones will feast with us and Samhain will be celebrated.”
Betony came back putting bowls of berries and turnip stew in front of them with plates of cheese and bread. She filled their goblets with some sort of beer which made them grimace with its bitter taste. Varran’s eyes flashed at them to eat and drink respectfully.
The cheese and bread was surprisingly more than edible and they wolfed it down. Tyran wasn’t fussed on the stew but forced it down respectfully. Betony went to clear the dishes but Jacke stopped her with a light touch to the back of the hand.
“Please. Let us, it’s the least we can do.” Betony bowed gratefully. Jacke turned to Michael. “Clear the dishes. You too Varran.” Both men looked at each other startled but did as they were bid. Betony nodded approvingly at the girls.
“All the turnips have been placed and all fires are being extinguished Failbhe.” The Chieftain nodded.
Sionn arrived back and came respectfully into his Chieftain’s home, bowing on one knee. Failbhe looked satisfied as he reported the Druids had approved his request.
“What request would that be?” asked Jacke. He turned and gave her a strange look, his eyes glinting mischievously.
“I took the liberty of sending word to the Druids of your arrival Jacke. They would be honoured if a child of Samhain with second sight were to meet with them and give her blessing to the battle ahead.”
Jacke exchanged a worried glance with Varran who stood by Sionn’s shoulder. She had visions of being sacrificed or some dark ritual being invoked with her being the central ingredient. With a deft gesture, Varran stepped before the Chieftain.
“I wonder Chieftain if I may be allowed to accompany Jacke. I have heard about the Druids but would greatly appreciate this opportunity to meet and talk with them.” Failbhe picked up on the pleading in his voice. Failbhe stood and gripped him by the shoulders.
“I am in your debt Warrior Varran for bringing such honour to us. It would only be right for Jacke’s mentor to accompany her. Sionn will also go with you as my personal guard. Night is falling and you must be protected as guests.” He looked to his soldier. “Take a carriage, it will be more befitting. But be warned, the druids hold their secrets dear. Even I do not know them at all.”
“Excellent!” Varran declared, rubbing his hands together. He gestured to the others. “Please help the clan finish any necessary preparations. We’ll be back soon.”
He bit his bottom lip as he spied their less than happy expressions.
The Time Warriors and Beyond 