Rosestone . . . the Beginning: Prequel to the Ancient Echoes Series

By Barbara Monahan

Kathleen McKinley loves castles, and the older, the better. She travels to Scotland, where shes drawn to the ancient ruins of Rosestone castle and its mysterious legends. But when she arrives, things begin to happen. She discovers not only is she a powerful witch, but so are all the people on her tour. As if thats not enough, they tell her she was once married to the sexy laird who lived there in the seventeenth century. While exploring Rosestones ruins, shes suddenly whisked back to 1603 by an ancient time stone from the Fae, and there, her adventure begins. Will their sizzling love affair rekindle after five hundred years? Or will Katie fall prey to Duncans jealous lover, whos out to kill her and keep the castle for her own? Travel back in time to seventeenth-century Scotland, where this amazing story begins. Youll find yourself lost in a breathtaking world of ancient magic, shape-shifters, witches, and of course, sexy angelic warriors. This is the prequel to the Ancient Echoes Series and is not one to be missed!

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Jan 27, 2015
• ISBN: 9781496966100

Barbara Monahan

Barbara lives in Pennsylvania with her family. She is a retired nurse who now devotes most of her time to writing paranormal time travel—her passion.

Book preview

ROSESTONE…

THE

BEGINNING

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BARBARA MONAHAN

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AuthorHouse™

1663 Liberty Drive

Bloomington, IN 47403

www.authorhouse.com

Phone: [phone]

© 2015 BARBARA MONAHAN. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 01/26/2015

ISBN: 978-1-4969-6611-7 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4969-6610-0 (e)

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

CONTENTS

Disclaimer

Dedication

17Th Century Scotland

Prologue

The Ancient Echoes Series

Chapter One: Boston 2015

Chapter Two: Aberdeen International Airport, Scotland

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine: Rosestone Castle Seventeenth Century Scotland

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty One

Chapter Twenty Two

Chapter Twenty Three

Chapter Twenty Four

Chapter Twenty Five

Chapter Twenty Six

Chapter Twenty Seven

Chapter Twenty Eight

Note From The Author

About The Author

DISCLAIMER

This is a work of fiction. It is not intended to be historically correct. All events, names, characters, people, places and situations are solely the product of the author’s imagination, and have no connection in any way to actual people or events. Any resemblance to people or things, living or dead are purely coincidental.

DEDICATION

This is to all who stood by me through the making of this series, and asked for more. It’s the greatest reward an author can have. Also, thank you Julie C, Barb, Sue and Giancarlo for your loyal support. You’re the greatest!

17TH CENTURY SCOTLAND

What would you have me do with her? Merlin asked, a hint of amusement filling those dark ancient eyes.

Kill her of course, then curse the castle and any future children.

What you ask is costly, witch.

Our agreement stands, you will receive the stone as payment.

He gave her a look of caution. They will come to avenge her death, and they’ll be no stopping them.

Morganna’s expression grew grim. They’re already here.

PROLOGUE

The Fae Time Stone was an ancient relic from the first colony of Tuatha de Danann, a mysterious group of time travelers who came ashore western Ireland, centuries ago. Among its many powers was the ability to move and shift time. Initially, it had been stolen from the Fae and housed in the mysterious caverns far beneath the foundation of Rosestone Castle. There it remained, until one of its former lords stumbled across it years later. Now in the possession of the MacClaire Clan, this fabled treasure was sought after for centuries by those who practiced the art of dark magick and time travel. One of these was Ambrosius, or Merlin as he’s come to be called, the most powerful and cunning sorcerer of all time. Promised as payment for killing a certain Kathleen McKinley and placing a dark curse on Rosestone Castle, he lays in wait for his prey to return to the seventeenth century. It’s there he’ll collect his reward, then watch as the magnificent castle slowly returns to ruins. But unbeknownst to him, there exists a sect of powerful angelic warriors who will bring him to his knees.

THE ANCIENT ECHOES SERIES

Rosestone…The Beginning

Boston 2015

Kathleen McKinley came from a rich Bostonian family, who had money to burn. When her parents handed her a plane ticket to Scotland as a college graduation present, she was thrilled. It was something she’d wanted for awhile, yet was completely unexpected. Katie and her three brothers were accustomed to having money throughout their growing up years. Their father, Dr. Donald McKinley, was one of the top cardiac surgeons in the U.S. They were a tight knit family, claiming Scottish heritage back to a small town in Aberdeen. Unfortunately, these American McKinleys hadn’t kept in touch with their Scottish ancestors, so there was little chance Katie would find them at this point. It seemed the time was never right to talk about them, or could it be a direct refusal on the father’s part? As the children grew, they often badgered him for any bits or pieces of their ancestral family tree. He simply told them there was nothing to know, and any information had been lost through generations. Katie resorted to her computer, but it seemed there was nothing to be found. Even those websites promising to find your DNA and family roots drew a blank. It seemed as though that part of their family had dropped off the face of the earth. She learned a few members of her father’s side had indeed lived somewhere around Aberdeen. That was where it stopped. No traces of children or distant relations. Not one mention of them coming to America, yet they obviously had. It filled her mind with questions as the years passed, until now. This was her big chance to fill the gap of what happened to the McKinley bloodline. If she knew now what her future held, she would never board that plane.

Petite, with beautiful long red hair and green eyes, Katie was a born heart breaker. She had several college boyfriends, but none were mister right. Naturally, her friends would like to see her settle down and marry the son of a wealthy Bostonian family. That was not about to happen. Her parents, on the other hand, were very tight lipped about who they would like as a future son in law. In fact, Katie never once remembered a time when they pointed out, or suggested any eligible man. She knew they wanted her to find a wealthy man with a well respected position in life, yet never spoke of it.

Her idea of the perfect man was something totally different from those she’d met at college. Her dream man would be tall, rugged and very handsome, and would look at her like she was the only woman in the world. And when he kissed her she would know it, and never want another man for the rest of her days. He would be an excellent father figure for their children to look up to. This unique man would fulfill her every sexual fantasy and never let her go. That was mister right, and she’d know him instantly when she saw him. Unfortunately, she had yet to meet this ideal male fantasy, and often wondered if she ever would.

Katie had no time for clubbing with college friends. Just a waste of time, she told them. They thought she was crazy, but she didn’t care. Meeting men in bars was not her thing. She’d rather spend her time on the web, researching her favorite subject…ancient castles in Scotland and Ireland. Mr. Right was out there, she could feel it. Now, she just had to find him.

CHAPTER ONE

Boston 2015

T he big day had finally arrived, and her family was as excited as she was. Joyce McKinley was the perfect mother, almost to a fault. She hovered over her only daughter since birth, and was now having issues letting go. Katie was surprised she hadn’t insisted bringing a girlfriend along with her, yet strangely she hadn’t mentioned it once. Intelligent and beautiful, she left her job as a nurse practitioner when the children started coming. Her husband was already a prominent surgeon, and they no longer needed her added income.

Mom, I’ll be fine, Katie smiled. It’s only for two weeks. Before you even miss me, I’ll be back. For some reason the thought troubled her, as she looked into her mothers misty eyes. She understood her struggle to let go, but also knew it was now time for her to start her own life. After all, there would still be three brothers left at home. And they’ll be here for a long time, Katie thought wryly. Life was good at the McKinley home. Why would they want to leave when they had all they needed?

Still, there were problems. Lately she would wake to hear her mother sobbing in the middle of the night. Her father would do everything to comfort her, yet it progressively got worse. When she asked what was wrong, she was told her mother was worried about Katie’s future. Odd, she thought. Why would she pick a time like this to worry about my future? It was only for two weeks, and there would be others, she was sure, who’d be accompanying her. Sooner or later, Katie had to begin her life away from the warm family which protected and nurtured her since birth. She felt an undeniable call from an unknown place, and had to follow her heart. But Katie had yet to find out just how far from her protective family she would end up.

Finally the day came, and she left her teary eyed family at the airport. Her father had even called off from work to accompany her. Have a good flight, he smiled, hiding his own tears. It seems he too was uncomfortable about the flight. Remember to call us as soon as you arrive, alright? You know how your mother is.

She laughed at the comment, then turned to her mother who was already a basket case. That’s right, she said, wiping at her eyes. "Call us as soon as you land. Please don’t forget." Katie nodded, then kissed them both. Why did she have this nagging sadness? Something was wrong and she sensed it, but refused to burden them with unfounded fears. God, she was just going on vacation! It wasn’t like they’d never see her again. But the foreboding feeling tugged at her heart. She tried to push the very uncomfortable thought from her mind, then cleared security and was out of sight.

Hello dear, the chubby middle age woman seated next to her smiled. I’m Mildred, and this is my husband Frank. Are you going to Scotland for vacation? Her eyes twinkled as she smiled over at Katie.

Katie politely returned the smile, wishing she had a seat by herself. Yes, it’s a graduation present from my parents. There was one empty row at the end of the cabin, and she eyed it longingly.

Oh how lovely, the woman smiled. First time, correct? Was it that obvious, she wondered?

Just my luck, she thought dismally. All these seats, and she ends up here, next to a middle age chatter box. Yes, it’s my first trip to Scotland. My parents have family ties there somewhere, but unfortunately we haven’t stayed in touch. I hope to be able to do a little investigating on the side while I’m there.

Oh, that’s such a shame, she said, groping in her tote for something. You’re going to love it there. We go every year. She looked over at her husband, who had already fastened his seat belt and closed his eyes. It’s our thirty fifth wedding anniversary, and we wanted to spend it at this quaint little Inn in Aberdeen. We visit the same place every year, don’t we Frank. No answer from Frank, he was conveniently playing possum.

Katie surveyed the seating arrangements with disgust. I’ll be saddled with this one for the duration of the flight. How nice, she managed to say. That’s where I’m staying too.

Wonderful! Then we’ll be traveling companions. A young girl shouldn’t be by herself in a strange place, isn’t that right Frank? Frank was doing a good job ignoring her, and Katie could see why. He doesn’t like plane flights. Makes him nervous you know.

I’m not exactly crazy over them either, she admitted, looking out over the wing, but since it’s the quickest way to Scotland, I suppose it’s a necessary evil. She leaned back in the seat trying to get comfortable, and closed her eyes as they prepared for take off. Maybe Mildred would get the idea, and do the same. Katie certainly hoped so, as she attempted to stretch her legs as far as she could in the cramped area. The take off was smooth and uneventful, and Katie settled in as Boston faded away in the night’s sky. Scotland was their next stop.

They ate a meager meal, then the stewardess dimmed the lights in the cabin for the night. Katie was on emotional overload. Mildred hadn’t shut up since they took off. Luckily, Frank was awake now, but soon put on his MP 3 player and tuned his wife out. That left no one to listen to her but Katie.

The dinner left a lot to be desired. Fortunately, Mildred seemed to read her mind. I have just what you need, she grinned, groping in her bottomless tote. Katie struggled not to laugh as she watched the older woman pull out two large Hershey bars.

Chocolate! she squealed, graciously accepting one. She had the wrapper off in record time. A look of pure heaven spread across her face, as she devoured the tasty treat. She sat back in her seat, finally satisfied. Thanks so much. That really hit the spot.

Oh it’s nothing dear. We women know what we need. I always have an amble supply of snacks with me. If I left it up to Frank, I doubt I’d ever see a chocolate bar at all when I travel. He’s just not a sweet tooth. Much prefers his after dinner glass of brandy.

Katie smiled as she crunched up the empty wrapper and stuck it in her purse. If she was lucky, the rest of the flight would go smoothly. The stewardess started the after dinner movie, and she was glad to find Mildred had dozed off. It would give her time to get some needed sleep. She glanced over at Frank, who just winked and pointed to his snoring wife. He’s probably a lot of fun, she thought, when his wife’s not around. No wonder he carries the MP 3 player! She snuggled up with the small blanket the stewardess gave her, and promptly fell asleep.

Dark dreams filled her sleep. Terrifying emotions caused her to cry out. Katie, are you alright? Frank asked, gently nudging her awake. I think you may have been having a nightmare.

She felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment. Sorry, she said. I didn’t realize it.

Would you like me to have the stewardess bring you a drink? Something to calm your nerves, or perhaps just some hot tea or coffee?

No, I’ll be fine. Thanks anyway.

He shifted slightly in his seat so he was face to face with her. Do you remember what you were dreaming about? It sounded pretty intense.

She closed her eyes against the flood of dark feelings that washed over her, feelings of hopelessness and despair. No, actually I don’t. It was nothing, really.

He took her hand. Just remember, we’re here if you should need to talk. How sweet of him, she thought. Just like my own father. He watched as she rearranged the blanket and got comfortable. This time she fell into a deep dreamless sleep.

Before she realized it, Mildred was tugging at her sleeve. Katie, it’s time to wake up. They started serving breakfast, and I didn’t want you to miss it. Katie stretched, then leaned over to look outside. The sun was just rising over the Atlantic, a beautiful sight indeed.

I believe we’re slowly beginning our descent, Frank noted. I’m glad you were asleep. We had a few rocky moments about a half hour ago. You never really know when we’ll experience turbulence. Looks like it’s over now, the seat belt sign is off. How was your night?

Good, she replied, wishing to ignore the entire thing. She felt embarrassed about crying out in her sleep, and hoped no one else noticed.

I’ll be right back, she told them as she unfastened her seat belt. Just want to wash up a little before breakfast.

Katie hurried down the aisle and entered the bathroom. As expected, it was very small and cramped. She promptly closed the door and latched it, enjoying a few seconds of blessed privacy. After washing her hands, she splashed cool water on her face, then dragged a comb through her long red curls. She caught her reflection in the small mirror. Her face was drawn and tired, and those dreaded dark circles were starting to appear. Just a temporary setback, she told herself as she fumbled in her make up bag. After a few seconds, she was good as new.

Zipping up her bag, she unlatched the door and came face to face with a tall handsome man. She didn’t notice him before as she walked to the restroom, and wondered where he sat. He wore faded blue jeans and a white tee shirt with "I didn’t ask for your opinion" across the front. Katie couldn’t help but chuckle when she read it. The shirt failed to hide his sexy, muscled torso. Long brown hair hung to his shoulders, and his striking blue eyes held a definite intelligence, plus a touch of humor. Although he was obviously capable of great physical strength, he looked down at her with a gentle smile. Bending slightly to make eye contact, he gave her a warm smile. Don’t be afraid, Katie, he said softly. He will not harm you, you have my promise. He touched her forearm with his hand, and all fears instantly fled her mind. She found herself relishing the sense of power and protection surrounding this handsome stranger. Where did he come from? And who on earth was he talking about?

She had no time to wonder, as a sudden burst of turbulence threw her against the side of the plane. She closed her eyes as a result of the unexpected jolt, when she opened them he was gone. She looked around the cabin, but he was no where to be seen. Was he just a figment of her imagination? No, he’d touched her.

Katie took a deep breath and smiled. She was filled with a reassurance and peace she never experienced before. As she neared her seat, she saw the stewardess leave her breakfast tray. Good, she thought. Maybe they’ll busy themselves with breakfast, and leave me alone.

What happened dear? Mildred asked. You look simply radiant.

Her face reddened at the unexpected question. It’s amazing what a touch of fresh make up can do, she joked. They would never understand what just happened to her. Neither would she. Actually, I feel much better now, she said, hoping to change the subject. What do you think caused that sudden bout of air turbulence?

It did come out of nowhere, Frank admitted. Probably due to the plane’s slow descent as we get closer to Aberdeen. Usually, they’ll warn us ahead of time. I did a little piloting in my younger years. Did you hurt yourself?

Katie shook her head and went on to fixing her coffee, while Mildred pulled out an agenda and began to read. She was more than happy to get her first gulp of caffeine in to jump start the day. Soon, the stewardesses started the daunting task of collecting the breakfast trays, as the plane continued its slow descent. They would soon be approaching the airport, preparing to land. Mildred informed her there would be a tourist bus waiting to take them to the Inn. Katie found she was forming a close friendship with this couple, despite her constant chatter. It was nice to have someone along who knew where they were going.

The plane was beginning to bank, and they were able to get a great view of Aberdeen from where they sat. Soon she would be on Scottish soil, starting her long awaited adventure.

CHAPTER TWO

Aberdeen International Airport, Scotland

T he big bird gracefully hit the tarmac and eventually rolled to a stop, delivering its tired passengers safely onto Scottish soil. Katie felt it the minute the large plane hit the ground. Someone was watching. Her mind flashed back to the handsome man on the plane, and his soothing words of comfort.

Follow us, honey, Mildred advised, as they traveled along behind the weary group of passengers. The airport was crowded due to several large international planes which had just landed shortly before them. People were anxious to get to their next destination. They joined in with the others, claiming their luggage and clearing customs.

Oh there it is! Mildred yelled, heading toward the large tour bus. Highland Tours was clearly written on the side. The uniformed driver stood just outside, answering questions and helping people with their luggage.

Welcome to Scotland, he smiled warmly. He was tall and slightly balding, and seemed to take a definite interest in his job. Refreshing she smiled, a man who actually cares. Please leave your baggage here, he directed, motioning them to where the side storage compartment was. I’ll load them after everyone is inside and settled. Katie was happy to unload her two bags next to the others. She’d crammed everything, and probably the kitchen sink in hers. After all, a girl never knew what she’d need on vacation, and she was not about to go without. Despite her family’s wealth, Katie had learned to be frugal with her money. Her father gave her a nice sum to spend while abroad, but she had no intention of wasting any of it. Life was too uncertain, and one never knew when you’d be in need.

They climbed into the tour bus and found a seat. It was comfortable enough for the ride to the Inn. Katie made sure she had a window seat. She was not going to be cheated out of a scenic view. If she was really lucky, she’d catch a glimpse of a castle, or even just ruins. Castles were littered all over Scotland, and she would not miss a thing. Feeling a sudden fatigue, she closed her eyes for a moment’s rest.

What’s wrong dear? a voice asked from the seat in front. She opened her eyes to find Mildred’s look of concern. You don’t look very good. Why not try to sleep for a while, it might do you some good. Frank told me you had a very restless night.

Katie sighed in exasperation. I was trying to, she grumbled to herself. Thanks, that’s what I had in mind. A little food might help too, I think. That bagel and coffee didn’t last long.

Mildred’s eyes twinkled. I have just the thing, she said, once again digging in that bottomless tote of hers. Here you are my dear. I carry a little of everything, just in case. One learns after several trips.

She watched as Frank laughed. She’s prepared for anything, you’ll see.

Katie was thankful when she saw the two fruit granola bars. She was careful to thank her, then gobbled one down. I never thought about bringing food, she apologized.

Don’t worry dear. They change the rules so often, I don’t pay attention anymore. I just throw what I want into my carry on, and that’s it.

Are you allowed to? Katie asked.

She caught the twinkle in Frank’s eye. Don’t let her kid you. She uses her magick to get past the TSA agents. They haven’t got a clue.

Magick? Katie was stunned at the strange statement, but decided to let it go. She refused to let one more thing bother her. After all, she was now in Scotland.

I think I’ll get a power nap in, she said, stretching her legs. Would you wake me in about fifteen minutes?

Of course, Mildred smiled. I’ll let you know if anything important happens.

Katie sat back and closed her eyes. She found the gentle motion of the bus helped. Sleep came quickly, so did unusual dreams. She dreamed of another place far from home, and a very handsome man. He was talking with her, as if they’d known each other for a long time. The house they were in was different… a castle! She was rudely jarred awake when the bus came to a abrupt stop.

What’s going on? she asked irritably, wanting to return to her dream as soon as possible.

Mildred turned in her seat. I’m not sure, but I think the driver stopped to avoid hitting something crossing the road. It happens a lot in these parts, one gets used to it.

Oh, she muttered gruffly, wanting to punch the damn driver for ripping her from a most delicious dream. I want to go back to him. She had no idea who this dream man was, but was very sure she wanted to see more of him. She tried to remember the dream before it slipped into oblivion. It wasn’t fair! She finally found Mr. Right and he was gone in a second, even if he was just a dream. She did recall he was tall and deliciously handsome with long dark hair and a slight growth of stubble on his chin. His grin was simply heart warming, and his eyes held a smoldering passion when he looked at her. No other man had ever given her that kind of look. It took her breath, and made her think of things she’d be ashamed of any other time. She guessed he was in his mid thirties, and very physically fit. That was it, no other delicious memories to sigh over. Katie’s dream man was gone. She grabbed a tissue from her purse and wiped her eyes before Mildred saw the tears. That’s all she needed! This was suppose to be a happy time, not a tearful one. Get a grip, she thought. You’ll probably dream of him again, or better yet, see him somewhere in the highlands. Be careful what you wish for, Katie.

The long trip finally ended as the tour bus rolled onto a long pebbled driveway, then parked. Slowly, the passengers stretched their aching legs, and exited the bus to take in the beautiful scenery. So this was Scotland. It was true, there was nowhere in the world more beautiful. The Inn was lovely, perched on the edge of a mountaintop with a breathtaking view of the sea. It was easy to see what kept tourists coming back each year to spend their leisurely time here. The tour guide reported this particular inn was over several hundred years old, and had obviously been renovated countless times to accommodate modern day tourists. Katie didn’t miss the pentagram painted above the doorway.

She stepped up to