Crystal Sorceress

By Brenda Gable

Dragons and fairies and trolls. Oh my! New Camelot, a magical land frozen in the middle ages, is not your normal vacation spot. Bethany McGuire, fledgling sorceress, agreed to a two week stay to learn how to control her new powers. Upon arrival, she gets attacked by dragons, embroiled in court intrigue, and married to a fierce warrior-sorcerer. Also, running amok wielding Merlin’s wand of power and determined to be the next high king, is a Black Sorcerer. To save the medieval kingdom and her husband from a crazed despot will require all this sorceress’s modern day savvy as well as a little help from her fey friends.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Brenda Gable
• Release date: Aug 23, 2014
• ISBN: 9781310043253

Brenda Gable

An award-winning author, Brenda Gable is a graduate of North Carolina State University and the Air Force Institute of Technology. She is published in southern magazines and anthologies. The mother of two adult children, lover of an absentminded yet brilliant husband, and caregiver to a clowder of cats, one hyper dog, and a noble horse, she's a very happy woman. Brenda enjoys sports and daydreaming up “what if” scenarios while she attacks the weeds in her flower and vegetable gardens. Her twisted mind has produced a series of New Camelot tales. She hopes you enjoy reading them as much as she enjoyed creating them.

Book preview

Tales of New Camelot

CRYSTAL SORCERESS

By

Brenda Gable

Book Two

Smashwords Edition

License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to your favorite ebook retailer and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

ISBN-13: 978-1496057884

ISBN-10:1496057880

Dedication

This book is dedicated to my equestrian friends. I have borrowed generously from their tales of adventure with their noble steeds and have freely employed their wit throughout my New Camelot stories.

New Camelot Books in Publication

Rogue Prince

Crystal Sorceress

New Camelot’s Thief

Black Sorcerer

Fire Sorceress

Bernard the Bard

High Sheriff of New Camelot

New Camelot’s Lion

New Camelot’s Brewster

Rogue Dragon

New Camelot's Sally the Whore

New Camelot's Fafnir

New Camelot's Bronson

New Camelot's Tarnished Knight

New Camelot’s Dragon’s Breath

New Camelot’s Baker

New Camelot’s Merchant Prince

Kingston Books in Publication

Vindication

Redemption

Retribution

Chapter 1

Bethany Maguire, insurance clerk and fledgling Crystal Sorceress, watched Liam Ironwood grin with slack-jawed amazement at the small pile of luggage in the foyer. She didn't understand what was so funny. The assortment of containers were absolutely necessary for a two-week visit to a magical medieval kingdom. The Druid’s lips twitched as his wooden staff tapped a satchel containing her notebook computer; the rolling tote with all her lingerie and best jeans and T-shirts; a cosmetic case with feminine hygiene products, brushes, over-the-counter meds and birth control pills; and a small crate of crystals.

The man, garbed in a dark grey linen robe over a light grey silk under tunic, stifled a snort when he said, I’m sorry, Princess, but anything not already in existence prior to the 13th century will not go through the time and space continuum. Except for the rocks, all of this must stay behind.

While her mind grappled in the background with the ramifications of his statement, Bethany studied the Druid that would transport her and her lover to the magical kingdom of New Camelot.

Liam was handsome. No, that wasn’t strong enough; he was drop dead gorgeous, all six feet plus of him. He had every prerequisite for a male model: broad shouldered, strong chin with a light growth on it, chiseled features, and rippling muscles everywhere under his long tunic. On top of that, he had green eyes plucked from an emerald mine and long golden hair that fell straight down his back to his waist. She used to believe Druids were old grizzled men that lived in trees. Boy oh boy, what a misconception!

However, his golden looks paled in comparison to her Darren’s black glossy locks and Aegean blue-green eyes. Unlike the towering Liam, Darren was built like a wrestler. Powerful muscles wove across broad shoulders to tie into washboard abs. She could bounce a coin off the firmness of his biceps and leg muscles. Although not as tall as his half-brother, Prince Wolfrick, Darren was extremely powerful with the light, stealthy feet of a predatory cat.

The ramifications of Liam’s statement finally made their way through her appreciation of male beauty. Nothing! She shrieked and tried not to panic.

Bethany of modern Killarney, Ireland had just come to grips with the passion that had been brewing between her and Darren. Since his arrival to the modern world and her changing him from a raven back to his original human form, they’d been inseparable companions. Last week was the first time they actually hooked up. He was everything she had ever wanted from a lover.

Princess Bethany? Liam’s lilting voice was a buzz in the background of her racing thoughts. What was she going to do without protection? What did they use in the Middle Ages for birth control anyway? She loved Darren. You just didn’t bring something as wonderful as the passion they’d found

to a screeching halt.

Bethany!

Darren’s deep voice pulled her from the abyss of no sex with a man who was a star performer in the sack. Everything will be okay. He squeezed her with his strong hands. Clothing and everything you need will be provided for you.

But…

He winked and his dimples flashed. Everything. Trust me. She could never withstand his dimples. They made a reserved face that had seen so much wrongdoing light up with an internal sun. Melting against him when he placed his lips on her forehead, she felt safe and loved in his arms. She wanted to stay here in modern Ireland with him, but he had unresolved issues back in New Camelot to attend to. Plus, she need help, a lot of help, with her newfound magical abilities.

Liam gave a discerning ahem. Ah, yes. Clothing. I almost forgot. Queen Bardou sent a gift that may please you.

The dazzling hunk of beefcake returned to the door of the Tudor mansion she’d been house-sitting. He pulled a bulky package wrapped in white linen and tied with green ribbons from the gunnysack he’d dropped to the floor when he first appeared.

She took the heavy package from his hands and laid it on the coffee table in the family room. Pulling the ribbons free, she opened the parcel. The air left her lungs in a gasp of delighted surprise. The deep blue top garment was embroidered in silver metallic threads. She removed the item and shook out the folds. Unicorns danced across the neckline and down the edges of a long, center-split tunic. Underneath the tunic was a kirtle in a paler shade of blue. She pulled it free from the wrapping. Multicolor flowers graced the neck and silver buttons dotted the kirtle’s front. Hand-made lace rimmed the edges of the bodice neck and cuffs.

A heavy black wool cloak trimmed in ermine was next. It was lined with the same dark blue velvet and secured with a silver clasp finely wrought into the shape of a leaping stag. She sat the three items aside to see what else was there.

She could feel her cheeks heating when she pulled the undergarments free. Goodness! Real silk undergarments and hand knitted woolen hose were lying atop a pair of buttery soft, ankle-length boots, a matching small purse and a silver embossed leather girdle. A perky little hat with a shoulder length gauzy veil completed the gifts from Queen Bardou.

Tears welled up in Bethany’s eyes at the queen’s thoughtful and generous gifts. They’re so beautiful. Her voice trembled. No one had given her such a present since her parents died. She fingered garments exquisitely crafted and made for a princess.

Darren stepped beside her with a similar bundle under his arm. He whispered in her ear, Go try them on. If you need help, call me. I’ll dress down here and speak with Liam.

Stacked back together, she clutched the articles to her chest and flew up the stairs to the master bedroom. It took awhile, but she figured out the meaning of the various tapes and strings of the undergarments. Finished with her toilet, she tucked a crystal-studded amulet that was the genesis of her power under her clothing and spun around feeling the cloth cling to her legs in gentle caresses.

Sensing someone observing her antics, she turned to the door. Darren, raised in tunics and braes since childhood, leaned patiently against the doorframe in a similar princely attire of green brocade tabard with black leather knee boots. He gave her a heated look of admiration while she draped the cloak over an arm. From behind his back, he pulled forth her crown, an emblem of her station as a Royal—a human with the superior ability to call forth and manipulate magic—that the New Camelot Council awarded her when she freed him and his brother from a curse.

Darren removed the hat and veil from the bed. Yanking the veil free from the hat, he laid the fabric on the top of Bethany’s head of straight brown hair and gently placed the circlet to secure the veil. He slipped the hat into the purse and buckled it in the girdle at her waist.

She stared at the two figures in the floor length mirror. They looked like they’d just stepped out of the costume room of an elaborate period movie. Without a tuck, dart, gather or pleat, the fabric flowed around her body and molded to modest curves. She actually looked like she belonged in the beautiful garments.

She’d never been so happy. The red crystal in the center of her crown glowed reminding her of Darren’s change in status from penniless servant to prince. You’re a prince now. Where’s your crown?

There will be an official coronation ceremony once we get to New Camelot. At that time I’ll be apprised of what lands have been granted to me.

He held his forearm parallel and she rested her hand on it, too wrapped up in the moment to think. His frame took on a possessive air as he led her slowly downstairs.

Liam’s eyes briefly shined with appreciation as they raked Bethany from head to toe. A glare from Darren caused the Druid to raise an eyebrow and shrug. He bowed deeply when they descended to the bottom stair. Your Majesties, if you’re ready, we shall proceed with your first lesson in teleportation.

With her crystals removed from the crate and secured in the gunnysack, Liam extended his staff to them. Hold on tight. It’s going to be a bumpy ride.

Chapter 2

It had to be mere seconds, but it seemed like forever. Bethany thought she had died and gone to hell. All was black and cold around her. She couldn’t sense anything—just a general disorientation. Then she felt the ground slam under her feet and Darren’s arms around her shoulders, steadying her.

We’re home. Open your eyes, beloved.

They were upon a forested hill overlooking New Camelot’s reigning seat. She gazed down upon a picture out of a fairy tale book and her breath left her. Miles away, across idyllic pastures dotted with grazing livestock, fields full of produce and thatched roofed farmhouses outlined in stone walls, rose the mythical castle atop a rocky swell in all its crenellated and pennant-draped splendor. Below the main castle, among multiple defensive walls, was a teeming city anchored on terraces cut out of stone. The tiled roofs of businesses and citizen homes covered a mountainside criss-crossed with a grid of narrow alleys and broad avenues. The initial impact of the twelfth-century scene was one of power and wealth. She whispered in disbelief, It’s unbelievable.

Back-dropped behind the castle, she could see the sun glinting off the blue-black waves of the sea. Masts of moored ships extended skyward at a bustling wharf. Unfurled sails dotted the sea.

Her eyes were drawn to an ominous dark band encircling the base of the main building marring the picturesque scene. She pointed downward. What’s that black ribbon?

The moat, responded Darren. It’s spring fed and flows into the sea behind the castle. We dump our offal into it. Consider it a Middle Ages commode and garbage disposal.

Of course. What castle is complete without a moat? Before she could ask him if there was a resident moat dragon, a young boy stepped from the tree line and broke the spell of disbelief holding her stationary.

Begging your majesties’ pardon, but Black Thunder is getting restless.

Darren’s eyes lit up with pleasure. Black Thunder, he called out over the boy’s head. An answering nicker echoed back to him. Darren hustled her over to where the magnificent black stallion stomped his massive feet and shook his muscled neck impatiently, sending his long mane to moving like a black waterfall.

The boy said, My lord, he’s eager to be getting back. It’s close to feeding time.

Darren removed the reins tied to a tree and scratched the horse’s neck. There, there, lad. We’ll be on our way shortly. He lifted a wide leather belt bearing a sword attached to a leather frog from the saddle pommel.

While he was securing it to his waist, Liam took her elbow and led her over to a placid grey mare harnessed to a two-wheeled cart. This is Cassiopeia, the Queen’s mount. The Druid left her to get acquainted with the brown-eyed animal while he secured the sack carrying her crystals to the cart.

He then mounted a heavy-boned brown gelding. The stable boy climbed into the cart and unwound the reins from the break handle.

Her gaze took in the miles separating them from the castle. Why are we riding to New Camelot? Why don’t you teleport us to the castle?

Liam answered brusquely. The King and Queen want the people to know you’re here and that you’re a real person, not an imaginative rumor.

A puzzled frown marred her intelligent countenance. You don’t approve?

He shook his head. The tales are already circulating about your abilities. This world has many kingdoms, but there is no high king. Just like King Arthur, there is always someone who perceives he’d make a great ruler over all. The Queen is the best strategist New Camelot has ever known. She thinks displaying you as her asset will keep the vultures away from her lands.

And you don’t think so?

His face was grim. "No. Once their spies locate you, I fear you’ll be in grave danger of being abducted.

Bollocks! I knew something like this would happen. Darren walked up on the last of the conversation with the reins of Black Thunder clutched in his fist. She doesn’t want to just teach you how to control your magic; she wants to turn you into a weapon. Purple balls of power erupted from his shoulders and rolled down his arms to tumble down the hillside where they dissipated.

Bethany grabbed him around his waist and siphoned off some of the excess energy. Under the unfamiliar double load of his and Duke Adolph’s powers, he was prone to manifest the balls of energy when he lost his temper or was under duress,

Sensing the anger boiling in him, she released his waist and cupped his face in her hands. Forcing him to look down at her, she stared into a swirling Mediterranean cove. His eyes were a barometer of his emotional state. At the moment, they were the color of dark crashing waves. Bethany reassured him. As long as I’m with you, I’ll be safe.

A muscle in his jaw twitched. She could hear his teeth gnashing. The power flamed higher. There was only one thing to do to distract him from his anger. Standing on tiptoe, she kissed him. His arms automatically came up and crushed her to him. They stood there before the stable boy and Liam and searched for each other’s tonsils.

She opened her eyes and saw that the flames had lowered. Satisfied he was back under control, she pulled away. All better now?

He gave her an embarrassed grin that exposed the twin dimples she adored. She felt her body shudder as lust and love ran up and down like a double yo-yo. Still holding her in an embrace, he vowed, You are the best thing that has ever happened to me. I will love you with the last breath I take.

Those ominous words chased the lust away and changed the shiver to one of fear. She’d come to love him so much over the past few weeks; she didn’t know what she’d do without him. Bethany petted his chest. Forcing cheerfulness into her voice, she replied, Hopefully, that will be a long, long time from now.

He lifted her by the waist and settled her on a padded cushion in the cart. With a stern look to the boy he said, She is my world. Drive carefully and don’t jostle her.

The boy turned pale. He stuttered. Yesss, mmy lord. I won’t hit a sssingle rut.

Darren grinned and reached out to ruffle the boy’s untamed thatch of brown hair. I doubt that. Just be careful.

Retaining hold of the reins, the lad stepped down from the cart and moved to Cassiopeia’s head. The horse shook her head up and down to something he whispered in her ear.

The sound of bubble wrap being stepped on ripped through the air. The smell of evergreen suddenly permeated the area. Tiny people, no taller than her knee, dressed in subdued green and brown leather tunics and kirtles, materialized speaking rapidly among themselves. Liam and the stable boy stood frozen in place, their eyes opened to their fullest as the little people whispered among themselves.

Is it her?

Is it the Regina?

She’s come back to us.

Darren stepped over to her side, positioning himself to defend her if necessary. She shoved an elbow into his side to move him out of her space and smiled warmly at the diminutive people. Seeing as how Darren was a sorcerer-warrior, Liam was a Druid, and she’d recently entertained a troupe of Leprechauns in modern day Killarney, Ireland, it didn’t come as any surprise to Bethany that here would be fairies in New Camelot.

She found herself surrounded by the new arrivals; their faces upturned, their eyes filled with a mix of adoration and excitement. When she was a child, she was told the little people that visited her were her imaginary playmates. She was used to being around them; their deceptive delicateness and their sudden comings and goings. However, this feeling of homecoming she was experiencing was unexpected.

An ancient male wearing a silver crown shaped like a spiraled horn, his beard long and grey, an oaken staff in his gnarled hands, stepped from the milling mini-crowd and bowed low. Your highness, I am King Connor O’Malley, of the Forest Fairies. You’ve been gone so long. Let us who serve the forest and its denizens be the first to welcome you home.

Bethany had played with the fey when she was a child in almost every country her physician parents had taken her. Having them appear and impart knowledge or warnings was a routine phenomenon until she turned thirteen—the day her parents were killed and she turned her back on them for failing to warn her of the danger that took her family away from her.

Channeling the cinematic courtly scenes in movies from Captain Blood to Star Wars, she stepped