The Prophecies of Mortals

By Darke Conteur

Death has touched Jezryall and her team, but their mourning is cut short as the minions of hell step up their plans of kick-starting the apocalypse.

The arrival of old friends bring some much needed laughter and good memories, as well as a possible key to stopping the coming maelstrom. Yes even as Daniel's powers are re-awakened, Jezryall's concerns about the Goddess's motives, questions her loyalty to the deity, and as internal conflict rise with each of her staff, the extra tension strains her own self-control.

As the team is drawn in several directions, they must push aside their own doubts and personal demons, or risk the fulfillment of a prophecy that would see the end of their world.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Darke Conteur
• Release date: Oct 15, 2014
• ISBN: 9780987944757

Darke Conteur

I want to tell you a story. It could be about zombies, earth-bound spirits, or metal monsters fueled by a mysterious, new power source. It could whisk you out beyond the stars; to space stations and other worlds, or deep into a virtual landscape that allows us to abandon our bodies but not our minds.I want to take you to all these places and more, but most of all, I want to entertain you.​Welcome to my worlds. The adventure is about to begin.

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The Prophecies of Mortals

Written by Darke Conteur

Copyright 2014 Dark Conteur Collection of Works

For more information on the author,

Please visit

www.wordpress/darkeconteur.com

Special Thanks to:

Rebecca Poole @ Dreams2media

Karen Lawson @ The Proof is in the Reading

&

Marion Archer @ Making Manuscripts

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Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Chapter One

A strong wind blew across the rooftop garden on the main skyscraper of the Terin Global plaza. Daniel Livingstone carefully removed a small stone gargoyle from his bulky winter coat and set it down on the cement ledge that ran along the top of the building. For a sunny spring day, the winds were annoyingly strong and bitter, and a few of his dreadlocks brushed across his face, making it all but impossible to see what he was doing. It didn't help that the ledge was several feet down the side of the building either, or that the contraption of two-by-fours, ropes, and pulleys he was strapped into shook and creaked with each gust of wind. At least they were almost done. Once the creatures were settled in, they would serve as an alarm for the entire plaza. No evil creature would step onto the property without them knowing.

He glanced quickly at Martin, who was also harnessed into the contraption and provided a counterweight. Keep it still. Daniel adjusted the small creature into place. I'm almost done.

Martin strained inside the harness. Just hurry up! My body feels like it's going to rip in two.

I can't rush this. They have to be positioned evenly so they have enough room to grow.

Another strong gust blew across the rooftop and Martin tightened his grip on the ropes around his body. There has to be a better way to do this.

None that I can think of.

You didn't think hard enough. He groaned as the wind blew stronger. Are we done yet? I'm freezing!

Almost, Daniel yelled into the wind. I have to make sure she's secure. I don't want the wind blowing them away.

A light hint of something burning carried on the breeze as black smoke curled and danced along the ledge. Jezryall stepped out from the shadow of a tree trunk wearing a long black cloak with the hood pulled over her head. Strands of her black hair caught in the wind and flipped around her body like they were possessed. Her arms were crossed in front and, even with her face partially concealed by the cloak, Daniel could tell she was not happy.

Why did you not call me? She moved toward them, hovering over the ledge on a pillow of black smoke. I told you it would be easier if I place them.

Thanks. Daniel gave Martin the thumbs up. But the sun's too strong for you today, and we couldn't wait for evening or night. He reached for the ledge and pulled himself in. Besides, I wanted to put them in. They're like my children.

Jezryall walked along the ledge. There was a slight pout on her lips. Did you remember to face them the right way? They must be placed facing the right elemental direction for their powers to be effective.

Daniel nodded. Yes, ma'am. Each gargoyle is facing the elemental direction according to their corresponding animal appearance.

She picked up the last small gargoyle, gently cupping it in her hands and brought it to her face. Her eyes flashed crimson and immediately, the stone creature woke. She brought it closer to her and rubbed her nose against the gargoyle's. The small creature squeaked and cooed in her hands.

Her eyes flashed again and then she smiled. They are so adorable.

Try living with them. Daniel rubbed his body. My bloody room was filled with them.

Martin snorted. "They're escape artists. Do you know how many mornings I woke up and found them all over my room?"

They like you, Daniel said, standing up.

Well I must be the only one. Martin stretched in his harness. I didn't see them sneak into anyone else's room.

Jezryall rubbed the gargoyle under its chin. They think you're funny. You should come out and visit them for a while. Until they're used to the solitude.

Martin pulled off the harness. I don't know. They might follow me back inside.

Jezryall cuddled the creature close to her body. Your care for the two you rescued went better than anticipated.

Daniel untied himself from the harness. Yeah, whoever thought gargoyles would multiply like rabbits?

I hope you carefully documented your procedure. Jezryall floated over the side of the roof and down to the ledge. Knowledge of proper gargoyle care has been lost over the centuries. Your instructions could return these creatures back from extinction.

Daniel shrugged as Jezryall gently placed the creature on the ledge. It wasn't that hard, really. You just have to understand the elements involved.

No, it is more than that. She drifted up and back over to them. You have a talent for this sort of thing.

Martin snickered. The Gargoyle Whisperer.

Daniel gave him a blank look.

Oh, come on, Martin said. That was funny.

Daniel untied the harness from the contraption. There was something going on with Jezryall. He could see it in the way she drifted through the garden. She never came outside during the day, ever, so being out here on the pretense that she was upset at them for placing the gargoyles seemed more than a little out of character.

She stopped by the gazebo and stared at the fire pit. She turned and faced them; a weak smile crossed her lips. Yes, it was very humorous, Mr. Cunningham.

Daniel frowned. Okay, what's wrong?

Yeah, Martin said, and walked toward her. You've been brooding more than Aslin for a couple of weeks now.

Jezryall turned. Nothing to trouble you with.

No. Don't do this, Jezryall, Daniel said. Don't cut us out.

Daniel's right, Martin said. You're always telling us to confide in each other. That our deep friendship is what makes us strong. You know, you're part of that too. Whatever is upsetting you, tell us. Get it off your chest.

She gave another weak smile. I am sorry. I have always had a hard time when death is near.

Daniel shoved his hands inside his pockets. I wondered if that was the problem. He took a few steps toward her and reached out to her. I keep forgetting you can sense when someone is going to die.

Look, Jezryall, Martin said. You can't be sad for her. Rowan is a wonderful lady, I get that, but she's old. Even you said so yourself. She can't live forever.

She looked back at them, and then turned away. It is not Rowan's death that haunts me. She glanced up to the evening sky. I fear there is much death coming.

***

Ember placed the china tea cup gently down on the nightstand. The light brown liquid let off wisps of steam and the odour of strawberries was strong. Aslin sat in a nearby chair and looked at the sleeping woman lying in the bed before him. The blankets were drawn close to her body, yet the unmistakeable outline of a frail body was evident. This was not the woman he did battle alongside several months ago, or the great Wiccan priestess he'd come to admire and help him understand his place at Jezryall's side. This was a shell of that person. The dying husk of a vibrant soul. He turned away, looking out the small bedroom window, and forced himself to swallow his anger. For all their abilities, for all their power, they were still vulnerable to the ravages of time. He assumed it was his fate to have his body become like hers one day—old and decrepit, his mind lost in a mental fog—but not now. A horrible battle loomed on the horizon and he was confident he would not live to see the outcome.

This was his new fate, but not everyone had to join him.

Have you thought about what will happen to this place once she passes?

Ember sighed. The dark circles under her eyes made her look older than she was. She's left just about everything to me. A few things, the more powerful items she's willed to you, and then a few things for the coven.

No, I meant the protection spell on the property. He could see in her eyes this was a topic she didn't want to discuss. I'm sorry, I know this is a hard time, but once she's gone, all her spells will dissolve, and that includes the one on this place.

I know. Ember rubbed her forehead as she slumped into the rocker near the bed. I've managed to cast a spell around the house, just the frame itself, but with everything going on, I haven't gotten around to doing one for the property.

Do you want me to do it?

She shook her head. No. I'll get around to it.

Are you sure? It would be no bother.

I know, but Rowan has this place under a living spell and I want to keep that up.

Aslin stroked his beard. He didn't care for those. To drain a small amount of energy from the living things around it may have made for a powerful charm, but with only Ember and the teen living here, it could cause problems for them. He wouldn't argue with her now about it. This wasn't the time or place. Later, perhaps, when they were no longer mourning.

The old woman stirred and opened her eyes. A look of confusion and fear washed across her face.

Aslin leaned forward. Good evening, Rowan. She smiled at him and for a brief moment, it reminded him of better days, when they would joke and laugh. Ember brought you some tea. Would you like some? He smiled back, but it was weak and filled with too much sadness.

The old woman turned the other way as Ember sat on the bed next to her. She reached over and picked up the teacup and a small teaspoon and scooped some strawberry tea with the spoon, and brought it to Rowan's lips. It's a little hotter than normal, she said, and gently blew on the spoon. But I know you'd yell at me if it was cold.

Rowan barely swallowed the tea, and some dribbled down the side of her lips and chin. Ember quickly placed the cup on the night stand and dabbed away the liquid with a napkin.

Ember dropped her arms by her side. I feel so helpless, Aslin. I keep thinking there's something I should be doing, some kind of spell or potion….

He stood and sat on the bed behind her, wrapping his arms around her shoulders. Let go of your guilt. She has accepted this. We need to as well.

She turned and buried her head in his chest. Maybe this is for the best. With everything that's happened, I know it would break her heart to see it materialize.

He rested his head on hers. She's lived a long life. It's her time to rest now.

She straightened up and wiped her tears away. You're right. I need to make sure everything's ready. She placed the napkin on the nightstand and stood. People have to be notified and I need to wash her best dress for the ceremony.

I don't think she'll care what she's dressed in.

Ember balked. Rowan would come back and haunt me for the rest of my life if I let people see her in her pajamas.

Aslin stood, walked back to his chair and looked out the small window. It would be nice if we could hold the ceremony outside. Her garden is beginning to flower and I think she would like to see it one last time.

Ember nodded. That's a wonderful idea, but it's too cold for her to be outside.

Aslin smiled. Leave that to me.

***

Barb unfolded the linen napkin and placed it on her lap. It had been a while since she'd had dinner in such a nice place. More than a while, almost a decade. As much as she liked working for Jezryall, there were some things about her old life she missed. Incredibly fancy, expensive restaurants were one of them.

So, Ral shifted some of the dinner utensils over to one side, What do I owe the pleasure of your dinner company tonight?

I've been speaking with Jezryall, and now that you are on administrative leave, she's instructed me to offer you a job at Terin Global.

Really? Just like that?

Well, you have been more than helpful to us, and you did save Martin's life. We all agreed you would make a good addition to our team.

He leaned closer. Even you?

She swallowed hard. He was looking at her in the same smouldering way Damikel had. What if this was the demon in disguise? No, he'd make his presence known, wouldn't he? She formed a weak smile, trying not to let her apprehension show. Of course.

But I thought you hated me?

Hate is a strong word. Barb shrugged. I will admit the last few times we've run into one another was a bit on the tense side, but as Boss Lady wants us to work together, I figured dinner out was a good way to bury the hatchet. She took a sip from her water glass. Besides, can't a girl have a change of heart?

I guess, but you've never come across as someone who changes her mind that easily.

There's a first time for everything, Darch.

Ral.

What?

He smiled. I would prefer if you called me Ral. Darch seems so—

Co-worker-ish?

Cold.

There was that smile. Soft and warm. Exactly like the smile the demon flashed her. She didn't want to say it was her sensual encounter with Damikel that changed her mind. Maybe she did have feelings for this guy. She was sure as hell attracted to him. Her face grew hot as certain memories of her encounter with the incubus came back. Even now, the way Ral held himself reminded her too much of the demon.

Maybe it's him.

Do you mind if I do something?

Sure, I guess. What?

She reached into her purse and pulled out a small vile. This is going to seem weird, but to be honest, it'll make me feel better.

Ral nodded. After what you've been through, go right ahead.

She pulled the cork from the vile and poured the small amount of water into the empty wine glass sitting in front of him. Would you drink this?

Ral picked up the glass and swirled the water around. What is it?

Water.

He flashed her the cold detective look. Why?

Let's just say, I want to make sure you are who you say you are.

You're confusing me.

Don't worry about it.

He looked at the glass. And what if I don't drink it?

Then this dinner date is over.

Ral took the glass and gave it a quick sniff. "What's really in it?"

Barb tilted her head to one side. Holy water. Just enough to do its job.

And what's that?

Drink it and we'll find out.

He kept his gaze on her as he brought the rim of the glass to his lips. Bottom's up.

Barb held her breath as he swallowed. If he were the demon masquerading as Darch, she'd know any moment.

Ral's face cringed in disgust as low growls came from deep inside him. Barb reached for her butter knife, gripping it tight in case something should suddenly jump out at her. Ral's body have a quick shudder as he put the glass down on the table.

That was the most disgusting thing I've ever drank, he said, and shuddered a few more times. And trust me, that's saying a lot.

Barb blinked. You're all right?

Ral snorted. "I don't know. What the hell was that, and don't tell me holy water. That didn't taste anything like water."

Barb smiled. Holy water has essential oils in it. She relaxed her grip on the knife. It's an old Catholic custom.

Ral shook and reached for his napkin. Don't ask me to do that again. That was disgusting.

I'm sorry, but I had to know.

Had to know what?

So, about this job offer?

Darch looked at her confused. You always try to circumvent the conversation, don't you, Miss Dole?

She raised her glass of water to him. Cheers.

Well that settles that.

"So tell me, Ral, what made you decide to be a cop?"

Ral signaled the waiter to come over. I don't know. There wasn't one specific thing that made me say, 'Hey, I wanna do that,' more like a bunch of small stuff. He glanced up at the waiter. I'll have whatever's on tap.

The waiter nodded. We have several different kinds.

I don't care. Surprise me. He looked at Barb. Anything to get this horrible taste outta my mouth.

Barb smiled. Sorry.

No, you're not.

She looked into his eyes. You're right. I'm not. Her gaze move to the waiter. A glass of house red, please. She moved the silverware to one side. So, job offer. Your answer?

Ral leaned back in his chair. I don't know. I'd like to know what's expected of me first. What your boss expects from me, what my duties will be.

She gave him a smug grin. You would be part of the security team.

Don't you have enough security guards already?

Not really. We have some, but they're not really that effective outside the building, if you know what I mean.

No, I don't. He shrugged. But that's beside the point. He leaned over the table. What's going on here?

What do you mean?

Why the offer?

I already told you.

No, there's more to it than that.

I don't know what you're talking about.

I bet you don't.

The waiter brought over their drinks, and then quickly left.

Barb picked up her glass of wine and took a sip before she spoke. Okay, we may feel a little guilty about all the crap you're getting at the station. You're a good guy. You don't deserve it.

Thanks, Ral said, but I brought this on myself. I didn't have to try and thwart the investigation into your organization. I made that choice myself.

After we asked you to.

Because of the consequences that would ensue. He reached for her hand. Look, Miss Dole, I get it. I understand why your secret needs to stay that way and I completely agree. He leaned back and picked up his beer. I don't need compensation for making the right decision.

Maybe not, Barb said. But my boss feels she needs to compensate you for your sacrifice.

Ral blinked a few times. My sacrifice?

Barb chuckled. Her words, not mine. She put her glass down. She was very keen about you working for us. Wanted to know about your work ethic and all that.

Ral's eyebrows rose. Really?

Yeah. Which is strange, as she rarely takes an interest in anything… non-paranormal.

Ral nodded slowly. Then maybe I should take the offer? It's gotta mean something when a potentially new boss is that interested in you.

***

Kane turned the dimmer switch for the living room lights until the room was almost dark. A big smile lit up his face as he moved the switch in the other direction, bringing the lights to full power.

Oy! Lucian walked over to the wall and placed his ghostly hand over Kane's. Why don't we leave this alone for now, shall we? He pushed against the back of the werewolf's hand, and the lights went out.

Hey! Daniel sat in the plush chair next to the couch and looked up from his book. I was reading!

Turn the light back on, Martin said, from the couch. I can't watch the news in the dark.

Kane pushed on the dimmer switch and the lights came back on. He smiled smugly at Lucian before walking away.

I don't know how you two can do anything with the lights going on and off like that.

Daniel and Martin looked up