The Beacon

By Chrissy Lessey

There can only be one queen...

Still reeling from the devastation wrought by Susan, Stevie struggles to find a way to retrieve the amulet from the dark witch who now calls herself queen. She develops a plan to amplify her powers, believing it will give her an edge, but the magic is untested and dangerous.

Susan will stop at nothing to complete her rise to power, including eliminating the last of Lucia’s descendants: Stevie and Charlie. She calls for a showdown, with all of the town’s witches present, leaving Stevie no choice but to comply.

​Queens who came before her sacrificed their lives to protect the witches, and Stevie is prepared to join their ranks. In this life or death battle, she'll do whatever it takes to save her people.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tenacious Books Publishing
• Release date: Aug 22, 2017
• ISBN: 9780998951843

Chrissy Lessey

Chrissy Lessey is a beach bum with a deep appreciation for good jokes, strong coffee, and salt air. She lives on the beautiful Crystal Coast of North Carolina where she finds endless opportunities to procrastinate and daydream. A long-time fan of rock music, Chrissy married a talented drummer. She still loves listening to him play - as long as it’s not in the house. Together, they have two energetic children and an ill-mannered dog. She enjoys connecting with her fans both in person and online. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay up-to-date on her latest book news and upcoming appearances.

Book preview

September 1745

Lucia sat alone at her table with a crow quill poised in her wrinkled hand. A heavy, leather-bound book lay open before her. She had stayed up all night, reviewing and amending its contents by the steady flame of a single candle. Now, as the first of the sun’s rays began to poke through the windows, she knew she must hurry to complete her work. Beth would arrive soon.

In spite of the decades she’d spent compiling the book, her mind still raced with unwritten revelations from the amulet, memories of her own time, and visions of a future yet to come. It had been impossible to record every detail, but she’d done her best to be thorough. The spells and history she’d included would be a poor substitute for the knowledge contained within the amethyst. She could only hope it would be sufficient. The success of the next leader depended on it.

Leader. When Lucia passed the amulet to her daughter, Charlotte, she had relinquished the appellation of queen without hesitation and adopted the title of leader for herself. It didn’t matter how her people addressed her. She knew she had their respect.

She stared through the window, seeing nothing and everything at once. By now, her grandchildren would be grown. Perhaps they’d already started their own families. She sighed. The line had continued without her. But then again, that had been the plan all along. Though her heart ached daily over Charlotte’s absence, Lucia found comfort in the knowledge that her decision had led to lasting safety for her kind.

She had bought her people a measure of freedom with the coin of her own sacrifice.

She shivered and glanced at her great stone hearth. For once, no fire burned within its blackened interior. Though she missed the symphony of pops and cracks that came from dancing flames, she had spared herself the trouble of building a fire. The rising sun would warm the cottage soon enough, and she had no need to cook on this day. She returned her attention to her work.

Lucia’s fingers trembled with age and frailty as she dipped her quill into the pewter inkwell. She needed to add one last note to the book so her successors could share the benefit of her visions.

I have seen a wondrous future for our people, one predicated on the choice I made years ago. You must resist the desire to connect with the other witches in Beaufort. You and your descendants will enjoy lasting safety, but only if you remain separate from Charlotte’s group. This is how it is in my visions. This is how you must live to ensure safety for all.

Sunlight poured through the windows now, bathing the cottage in its glow. Lucia placed her quill on the table and extinguished the candle. She could no longer deny the exhaustion that had crept into her body.

Lucia had prepared for this inevitable day ever since she led her people from their island home to a new settlement on the North Carolina coast. Here, her group had thrived as the port town known as Wilmington flourished around them. They’d succeeded in keeping their magic a secret, even as a new generation of witches grew up among the diverse settlers who also lived in their community. Since they’d managed that, she had no doubt they could weather the changes to come.

A soft knock tapped at her door.

She did not move from her chair. Come in. The weakness in her voice came as no surprise. Her strength had been waning for a long while.

Beth bustled into the cottage and closed the door behind her. Her silky black braid swept across her back as she twirled around to face Lucia. Though she was a young woman, wrinkles of worry deepened across her forehead when she took in the sight of her mentor.

How are you feeling today? Beth settled into a chair at the table.

Exactly how I expected to feel. Lucia gave a thin smile. What about you? Are you ready?

Beth peered down at the open book and bit her lip. I still worry that I’m not strong enough. My concern grows ever greater as we near... She blinked and fell silent for a moment before speaking again. Wouldn’t a pure-blooded witch be a more appropriate successor?

Lucia tucked a lock of white hair behind her ear as she considered Beth’s question. The young woman was the product of a union between a witch and a native man who had remained in the area when his tribe moved north. In the years since their arrival, it had become common practice for the witches to marry people outside of their group. Sometimes, the children produced from those unions went on to develop powerful magic. Other times, the magic in the offspring was limited or non-existent. But this fact did not bother Lucia. Her visions had revealed a long future of witches living side by side with those who did not share their gift. In Beth, she saw an opportunity.

Beth, you represent our future. You are living proof that we can not only exist among the others, but we can live in harmony with them. Lucia patted her hand. Your magical talents are more than sufficient for the task ahead. I wouldn’t have chosen you otherwise.

Beth traced her finger along the edge of the table. Are you sure the others will accept me as their leader?

I have already taken care of that. Lucia gave a slight nod. I’ve said time and again that you are my chosen successor. Besides, they all know you have trained with me since you were a little girl. Acceptance will not be an issue. What you need to be concerned with is how you will earn—and keep—their respect.

I have a plan for that actually. A flash of sly confidence chased the doubt from Beth’s expression, and she grinned.

Lucia arched an eyebrow. I would love to hear it.

Beth stood and smoothed her skirt before stepping in front of the stone hearth. She beamed with excitement as she caught Lucia’s eye. Watch me.

I’m watching. Lucia kept her focus fixed on the young witch, whose image faded until no trace of her remained.

Beth had vanished.

Lucia blinked. Given her gift of foresight, she was seldom surprised, so she couldn’t help but relish the novelty of the experience. If she’d had the strength, she would have crept closer to investigate Beth’s disappearance. Instead, she stared at the empty space from her seat at the table. A few witches had the ability to travel in an instant, disappearing from one location only to reappear in another. However, this magic was different. Lucia sensed that Beth remained nearby. Where are you?

I’m still here. Her reply came from the area in front of the hearth, but there was no sign of the young witch.

Show yourself so we can discuss your plan.

Beth reappeared as swiftly as she had disappeared. She extended her arms in a display of proud showmanship. What do you think?

It’s a clever trick. I’ve used similar magic myself. Lucia thought of the amulet and raised her hand to the spot on her chest where it once resided. Witch queens throughout history had made the necklace invisible in order to hide it from outsiders. "But I’ve never seen anyone successfully conceal an entire person before. Tell me how you did it—and how this affects our people."

Well…I’ve been practicing for several months. Now I can do this on a much larger scale. She ran her hand across the rough stone surface of the hearth. You see, I drew on the natural energy of the stones. I pulled their likeness over me like a cloak until I was no longer visible to you.

That’s a clever approach. Lucia nodded in approval. "Very impressive magic."

Eyes gleaming, Beth propped her hands on her hips. Now, imagine drawing on the power of the ocean. We could disguise just about anything on the open water.

Lucia sighed and sank back in her chair. She sensed what would come next.

We could return to our island! I could hide it easily. Beth’s words tumbled out too fast. I can even teach the others how to do it. We wouldn’t have to worry about pirates, or anyone else, discovering our magic. We can be truly free once again!

Come here, my dear. Lucia spoke with tenderness as she reached for Beth’s hand. I’m sure you’ve heard about how wonderful our time on the island was. It’s all true. However, you cannot take our people back there. Not ever. She gestured toward the open book. I have seen centuries of peace for our group, as well as Charlotte’s. In each of those visions, we remain in Wilmington, and my daughter’s group stays in Beaufort. For that future to come to pass, we must stay here.

Beth opened her mouth as if to speak but silenced herself before uttering a word. Her dejected gaze dropped to the wooden floor. I understand. Her shoulders slumped as she returned to her chair at the table.

I sincerely hope you do. Lucia’s voice had grown even weaker, but she pressed on. This is an important skill. Certainly, it’s one that you should teach the others. You never know when this magic might become useful.

Beth’s frown began to fade. I’ll do that.

There’s something else.

Yes?

I know you put a great deal of effort into mastering that cloaking magic. Lucia gave her the broadest smile she could muster in her feeble state. "I am proud of you."

Thank you. Beth heaved a great sigh and raised her chin as the remaining traces of her disappointment evaporated.

Lucia clasped her hands together, pleased with the young witch’s reaction to her praise. Soon, their people would look to Beth for the same sort of validation. In the long years to come, Lucia hoped her protégé would remember how it felt to receive the leader’s approval.

Have you had your morning meal yet? Beth rose from her chair. I would be happy to prepare something for you.

Please don’t trouble yourself. I have no appetite. Lucia waved her hand, dismissing the idea. In fact, I need to rest now. Will you help me to my bed?

Of course. Beth wrapped her arm around Lucia’s waist and extended her hand for additional support while the former queen stood from her seat at the table.

Lucia’s feet shuffled across the floorboards as she inched toward her bed. Without warning, she stopped in her tracks. My dear, I nearly forgot! You’ll need to leave a basket by your door in the morning. Also, add a note about it in the book so the tradition will continue through the generations.

The basket used to hold offerings for the new queen? Beth’s brow furrowed in confusion.

There can only be one queen, and that is Charlotte. Lucia stepped forward once more, gripping Beth’s hand for support. "This basket will be used to receive gifts welcoming the new leader."

Beth sucked in a sharp breath and straightened her back. You said I’ll need the basket in the morning. Are you saying you won’t survive the night?

My dear, I won’t survive another hour.

The young witch gasped. There must be something I can do!

Lucia only shook her head.

Beth fell silent as they continued across the room. She helped Lucia lay down and then covered her with a thick quilt.

Lucia welcomed the comfort of her bed. Overcome with exhaustion, there was nowhere else she wanted to be.

I thought we had more time… Beth wiped a tear from her smooth cheek.

This is as it should be. I am ready, and so are you. Lucia let her eyes close, though she remained awake. I’m going to join all the witches who came before me. They wait for me now on the other side of the veil. My mother will be there, and someday, Charlotte will join us too. I look forward to it actually.

She sensed Beth’s presence at her side as she prepared to let herself slip away. She had no more work to do. The tension in her body dissipated, and her racing thoughts settled as serenity washed over her. It wouldn’t be long now.

Unbidden, a terrifying vision flashed in her mind, forcing her to witness a distant future. Chilling images made themselves known. A queen murdered in front of her coven. A precious little boy in peril. The amulet in the hands of unfettered evil.

Her face pinched in agony. The darkest witch her people had ever known would rise and call herself their queen.

Lucia! What is it? Are you in pain? Beth grasped her hand. How can I help?

Lucia’s eyes sprung open, wide with terror. Heed the call of the Diamond Lady! Beads of sweat formed on her brow as her breaths came faster. Write it in the book. Do it now so you won’t forget!

She closed her eyes once more.

Who is the Diamond Lady?

Beth’s voice sounded so very far away.

Chapter One

Stevie

In the early morning hours, Stevie Lewis crept through her front door with the stealth of a hungry cat. Coffee mug in hand, she stepped out onto her porch and pulled the heavy door behind her, holding her breath as it clicked closed. Satisfied that she’d made her escape without detection, she let out a sigh worthy of both her relief and frustration.

Too much hassle just to steal a few moments of solitude.

Her foot brushed the basket that Alice had placed by her door. It now contained several new offerings of handmade soaps, candles, gemstones, and teas. The Beaufort witches had been generous in honoring her as their new queen, but she decided to look over the gifts later. For now, she was grateful to have a little time to herself.

Since her mother’s death four days earlier, the coven had rallied around her, even as she wavered in her decision to accept her new role as their queen. Stevie was certain that they had worked out a schedule among themselves to ensure she’d never have a moment alone. She reminded herself that they only wanted to protect her, not just from her grief but also from Susan’s next attack.

But they can’t save me from either one.

Stevie shook her head in a futile attempt to banish the dire thoughts and then wrapped her hands around her mug, warming them. It helped stave off the chill of the October morning, but it did nothing to soothe the grief that had become her constant companion.

In search of a distraction, she glanced to the east and marveled at the sight before her. The night sky bled bold shades of red as the sun sliced its way through the darkness. A new day had dawned.

Stevie filled her lungs with crisp salt air and shifted her focus across the street to the calm water of Taylor’s Creek. The low hum of a fishing boat’s motor grew louder as it passed by on its way through the inlet. Birds chirped from their hidden roosts in the surrounding trees. A skinny yellow lab, probably a stray, meandered down the sidewalk. The dog stopped at Stevie’s gate and stared at her for a moment before continuing down Front Street.

She had watched the town of Beaufort gently awaken on more occasions than she could count, but this time was different. It was the first morning since she’d officially accepted her birthright as queen and, in doing so, had declared war on the murderous dark witch who’d stolen the amulet.

Stevie’s chest tightened as she recalled Susan’s ominous words. There can only be one queen.

But now there were two—one by birth and one by theft.

It was only a matter of time before the dark witch came for her.

She had no intention of waiting for Susan to make her next move. With the responsibility of the coven’s safety on her shoulders, Stevie had no choice but to take action soon.

More than once since her mother’s death, she’d given serious thought to taking Charlie and running as far away from Beaufort as she could get. However, she knew that was nothing more than idle fantasy. She and Charlie were the last remaining direct descendants of Lucia, and Stevie was the only one who could challenge Susan’s false claim to the amulet.

Besides, Susan would come for her no matter where she sought refuge.

The dark witch’s evil knew no bounds. Between her own incredible magic and the power supplied by the stolen amulet, Susan had already proven herself stronger than the combined efforts of the coven members. She could appear at any moment and cut Stevie down, just as she had done to Patricia. She might choose to go after Charlie as well. Stevie’s jaw clenched at the thought.

The door creaked open behind her, but she did not turn to see who had come to rescue her from her solitary ruminations. She already knew.

Dylan slipped his arms around her waist. Why don’t you lower your mental shield? Let me take on some of those worries for you.

Stevie let herself relax against his broad chest. Dylan Kent hadn’t left her side since her mother’s death. She was tempted to let him read her mind. However, she’d been keeping a secret from him, one he would no doubt discover if she let him in while her thoughts were so unfocused.

Soon, she would have to tell him about Vanessa’s return, but not now. The coven had been through so much already. She couldn’t bring herself to add more to his burden.

Another dog, this one small and fluffy, pranced down the sidewalk on the far side of the street. It stopped in front of Stevie’s house, sniffing the air fervently as though it sought a specific scent. Satisfied by whatever it had or had not detected, it wagged its tail and then continued down the street.

That’s the second dog I’ve seen this morning. Stevie took another sip of her coffee.

There are probably many more nearby that you haven’t seen yet. Ruth has all of the strays guarding the house. Dylan lowered his arms and stood next to Stevie. Then he leaned over the porch railing and peered into the bushes below. There’s another one down there. He pointed to an old beagle lying under the low green canopy.

You’re kidding! What exactly will these dogs do when Susan comes for me?

Ruth says they’ll let us know if you’re in danger.

A lot of good that will do. She shook her head.

"I know it’s a stretch, but it’s