Chapter 39 Canadian Timber Wolves.

Ariel-Lindi came across, “Hello will you help look after our babies when we have then.” Abigail came across held out her hand. The bitch sniffed & then rolled over again.

Odin burst out laughing. “Some guard-dog you are when you want petting like a puppy.”

Perfecta, “See if she will take these tit bits off your hand.”

Chrissie, “Abigail do you remember the timber wolves in Canada.”

Abigail, “Yes.” Chrissie put a piece of meat in her mouth & the bitch went & licked her & took the meat. The puppy went to Abigail & Ariel-Lindi & followed their mother’s example.

Perfecta, “You are supposed to be the lead dog & here you are begging like a puppy.”Do you want mummy to feed you?”

The dog barked & the puppies came running. “I will take these back to the kennels & feed them all.”

Odin, “Chrissie & Abigail you both have done something you should not have been able to do.”

Chrissie, “Ever since we got lost in Canada as children we can do what we want with any dog.”

Abigail, “We got separated from our parents & the Alpha Bitch found us. We discovered her baby was caught in a trap and we managed to free it. The bitch licked the wounds clean on the cub & then looked at us. We where both curled up fast asleep with the cub & the Alpha Bitch when the main pack & the Alpha male arrived. Apparently he took us as his puppies & protected us from the others.”

“We noticed the other pack members where all treating us like the alpha cubs. They would offer us meat & milk. We found several of the pack had thorns in their pads & we managed to get them out. We even learned the basic language of all dogs. We did not realise that a search party was looking for us when we came across a log cabin. We went in for some shelter. The cub & the Alpha Bitch stayed with us. The male & the remainder of the pack waited close by. We heard mother calling but snuggled up to the Alpha Bitch. We were fast asleep when she found us. Mum spoke in to the walkie talkie & said they are perfectly safe with their friends.”

“Mum gave the wolf some chicken & said, Thank you for protecting my babies the wolf looked as if she could understand mum & licked her hand & then rolled over. You will always now be one of her cubs & she will forever protect you.”

Abigail, “We saw the wolves several more times until we had to return to England. We have not been back since but perhaps Ariel-Lindi & I could go for our honeymoon.”

Running Water, “If you are taking them to Canada then may we go also?” We have something to sort out.”

Gaby, “I will tell the chief you are now a Beardash.”

Gaby looks at her watch, “Well girls it is time for your weddings.” Neptune you can wake up Ariel-Lindi, Oberon, and Chrissie & Odin Abigail. Your mother is already waiting to perform the ceremony.”

Starr, “Herne has said he will escort you up the aisle Empress.” Gaby was the last to walk down the aisle.

Helen,” Chrissie do you & Ariel wish to be bound as one for all eternity?”

They both replied, “Yes we do.”

“Now I have to ask you all likewise will you all be bound to the Empress & her companions forever?”

Abigail, “This is a relief as I have fancied the Empress since looking on her. I thought you where marrying me to some unknown male.”

Odin, “Abigail there are very few of us & we are happy with the status as it is.” The three of them received rings & earrings.
Ariel-Lindi, “Grandfather it is as if you expected this.”

Neptune, “All my daughters only have one partner & so in effect you are already her daughter. Likewise your husband & sister in law they were adopted by the Empresses companions & also became her daughters.”

Abigail, “Gaby can we go back to Canada & see if we can find the Alpha Female again although she will be old by now.”

Gaby, “Granny can you ensure everything is kept running smoothly while we are away.”

Abigail, “Gaby I see you already have two Alpha females.”

Maddy, “I am number one & Ally is number two.”

Abigail, “I wish I could have babies.”

Ally, Well I have already had enough & if you want babies you are welcome as I am concentrating on the work in hand.”

Maddy, “Take no notice of her she is a good mother. She gets a bit grumpy around this time.”

Abigail, thought, “Oh I understand I get rather bad cramps myself.” That night the group went to bed normally. When they awoke in the morning they found they were in a log cabin. Chrissie found a pack of timber wolves where curled up asleep with them.

Abigail was the next to awake, “She is still in charge of them.”

A puppy came & was licking Abigail, “Oh you want feeding do you.”

Abigail, “Well the she wolf fed me when I was a baby so I had better feed you. I am leaking so you can help yourself.” Another cub joined them & Abigail did not object as it started to help its self. Abigail said, “Chrissie look the cubs are all helping themselves to a free breakfast.”

Maddy was the next to awake. “What is going on here?”

Abigail, “We appear to be back in Canada in the log cabin & been kept warm by a pack of wolves.”

Maddy, “Have you seen Gaby?”

Abigail, “No we have only just awaked ourselves.”

“Well we had better wait for the remainder of the pack as it appears that the majority of the original pack is here with us.”

Maddy moved to the door to open it & closed it immediately, there is a massive male wolf sleeping across the doorway & I do not feel like disturbing him.”

Abigail looked. “That is Remus so these must be his cubs. I wonder where their mother is?”

Maddy, “I could do with going to the loo.”

Abigail, “Well we might as well show you were the toilet is as we need it ourselves. Then we had best see what there is in the kitchen to eat.”

After all three of them doing their business & tiding themselves up they went looking for the kitchen. They found Gaby talking to a young woman in the kitchen.

Gaby, “I suppose you smelt my cooking. The others will no doubt be in here soon so sit down while we get your breakfast.”

Chrissie, “I presume you are a friend of Gaby's.

Gaby, “Chrissie this is Shera you have met her before but you will probably not recognise her as she is now.”

Abigail “Is there something to drink the cubs are all helping themselves to breakfast & it has left me very thirsty. It looks like Remus has brought the entire pack here. He is sleeping across the threshold & so I decided not to disturb him.”

Two girls came in, “We were looking for you Abigail.”

Shera, “Children you can eat your breakfast now you are here & then you can take Abigail out to play via the back door. Do not go disturbing your father so early on. Let him sleep.”

Ally was next into the kitchen. “Gaby somebody has left the kennel door open & all the puppies have got out & have been using us as breakfast bars.” This brought a giggle from the two girls.

Two more girls came in, “There you are Ally after breakfast you can play with us.”

Gaby, “She never was a morning person & after a few coffees she will be alert.”

Jools was next & came in carrying two girls. “Gaby somebody has lost two daughters they were using me like a trampoline.”

Shera, “Girls apologise this instant.”

“Sorry Jools we only wanted you to play with us like Abigail used to.”

Chrissie looked across, “Gina & Lupo is that you?” They ran across to Chrissie & started to hug.

“Chrissie you came back to us like you promised & brought some friends are they your pack?”

Gaby, “No they are all my pack.”

“Mum can we play with Jools & Ally?”

Abigail, “Chrissie & I are coming as well as it is a long time since we all played together.”

Shera, “Gaby as I was saying we have to look for a new home. The Oil Company in bringing a pipeline through here & it will be no longer safe for us. The children & I should be OK but Remus need to be in the country as you see he sleeps outside all the time.” Just then a massive man came in through the door.

“Daddy we are all going to play.”

Remus “Take good care of our guests.”

Remus sat down, “I presume Shera has told you our problem. Shera & the children can now stay in human form but I will continue to change each night.”

Gaby, “I brought these because Chrissie has just taken a mate & also become my companion. I have a proposal for you both. Surrounding my home I have woods which are a wild life sanctuary. Herne looks after it for me but he needs help.”

Remus, “I am a good woodsman & there could be no better gamekeeper than me.”

Gaby, “Herne come here please. This is my friend Remus he needs a new job & home & I was thinking that you could do with help in the wood.

Herne sniffed the air, “Remus there are a lot of young hinds & calves in the woods. As you see I can transform myself to a giant stag. I though cannot be everywhere at once. Dogs sometimes get in to the forest and chase the wild life. If I find any doing that I kill them.”

Remus, “Herne neither I nor my family will attack the wild life in the woods. Although I think it would be advisable that we all meet each other. I also want an assurance from you that you will not kill my family as they do not always look as sweet as they do now.”

Herne, “So my sense of smell tells me.”

Remus, “I have just thought of something I cannot accept the offer. There will be nobody to tend my herds here.”

Shera, “Why not take Herne with you & round them all up & bring them to the coral.”

Remus. “Children I need your help to round all the herds up & bring them back.”

Chrissie, “We will help as well.”

Herne, “Your herds are all deer. In that case just get the coral gate open & I will call them.” Herne let out a cry & all the deer started to run to the coral. Herne went to speak to a great stag.”

The stag, “Remus looks after us & keeps the others away when we are too old or injured he does what he has to. I have seen him though care for a calve that lost its mother and heal injured animals.”

Herne, “So if I was to ask you to come with us to new surroundings & Remus was in charge it would not bother you.”

The stag, “We are use to Remus, Shera & the little ones. The little ones practise their hunting skills on us. I was once half dead and Remus brought me back to life. See I still carry the scars of his healing.”

Herne could clearly see the scars from a great battle. “My foe came off worse. Herne could not save him and so he fed the family of Remus. Remus must have thought I was worth saving as he spent many nights attending to me. The younger stags hold me in awe when they see my battle scars. I tell them my entire story.”

Herne returned to Remus, “They should all be here.”

Lupus, “No they are not all here as the little White Hind is missing.”

Herne, “I called them all so they should be here.”

Lupus, “The White Hart is also missing.”

Remus. “Children we need to search for them as we will be going nowhere without them.”

Gaby, “Lucy I need your help can you and your sisters to look for some deer that are missing.”

Lucy, “A pack of wolves are attacking a small group of deer not far away from here.”

Remus let out a roar that could be heard miles away.

Gaby wasted no time in putting herself between the deer and the wolves. The wolves found a strange creature they had never see n the like of before between then & the deer. Flames shot out of the mouth of the creature. The fire while it made them more cautious still did not deter the wolves. Gaby decided on another tactic. She threw some chickens to the wolves. These they eagerly ate.

Remus finally arrived, “They look to be starving no wonder they came into my area.”

Shera looked at the wolves that all looked in a sorry state. “Gaby will you help me treat these?” Remus & Herne take those two back to the cabin.”

Regina, “Look dad there is a calf no wonder they would not leave her.”

Chrissie, “Hello little mum I will carry your baby to safety as it is not safe for you here as for you two you look exhausted so Herne & Remus will carry you home. You found Remus long ago to help me. Well my sister & I are going to take good care of you & your family.” As Gaby approached the wolves they rolled over.

Shera, “Gaby they are accepting you as pack leader. They will follow you to the ends of the earth.”

Gaby spoke to the pack. “I am going to allow you to follow me back to the cabin. There all your wounds will be treated. In the meantime I will move our other guests so they do not get upset. With a wave the Herds of deer found they were on a hillside with Herne,

Herne. “All this is your new home. Remus will come to patrol the woods.” Remus went to look where Gaby & Shera where & saw them being followed by the wolves. His hackles went up.

Shera, “Stop that Remus they are tired & hungry & injured we need to treat them.”

Shera was surprised when Remus rolled over in front of the she wolf that had just done the same to Gaby & started licking her.

The she wolf. “Thank you for the food we were really hungry & tired. We normally would have avoided Remus as he likes his independence. I had to lead the pack here though. As it was the only place I knew where we could get some food.”

Gaby, “Remus I presume this is your mother & sisters or else why would you act like a cub.”

The she wolf. “Yes I am his mother Sheba.”

Gaby, “Then as pack leader I want a promise that neither you nor any of the pack will attack the other guests. I have to warn you now although you are Remus mother & sisters. Any infringement will mean death to that party.”
Sheba, “I agree but to be honest we are all still too tired & hungry.”

Gaby, “First we will deal with your hunger & then your wounds & sores.”

After eating their fill Sheba asked, “Can I talk with you. Years ago one of my family accidentally killed a very special deer. The death caused a curse to fall on all my family. The curse will only be lifted when one of my family saves the life of another.”

Gaby, “So I take it you all have the same abilities as Remus & his family.”

“We do but only when we are not hungry then we revert to pack animals.”

Gaby. “As you should be full you can change then.”

Sheba, “It has been a long time since I was so full & I suppose I should be able to change now.”

Gaby watched her change, “Now you can come with me & see our other guests.”

Sheba, “I see why now you insisted on the pact. It was you we where tracking before Gaby & Remus intervened to save you. I apologise & thank the Lord they did help you or I would have found the curse extended.”

The Hind, “Remus carried me to safety & his child mine. If it was to do with me the curse would be lifted but alas only the Deer lord can do that.”

Gaby, “Did you say the deer lord can lift the curse.”

The Hart, “Remus has been looking after us for us for some time now. He found me injured & nursed me back to health many years ago. We heard the Deer lord call but the wolves barred our way.”

Gaby, “I make that all three then Remus has saved. Diana bring Herne here this instant.”

Diana, “Herne what have you done now Gaby sounds extremely annoyed with you.”
Herne, “I honestly do not know what is wrong but I think I better have your support.” Herne found himself in the great hall of Valhalla. All around where robed and in their formal attire.

Diana looked around, “Herne it looks like you are on trial for some reason.”

Gaby, “Herne you are on trial for cursing & failing to lift the curse.”

Herne still looked blank. Gaby, “I will give you a reminder as you appear to have forgotten your curse call Remus.”

Remus appeared, “Now call the White Hart & family.”

The Hind, “Remus was trying to help my calf when the deer lord saw him & cursed him & all his family. Remus has always been my friend & all three of us owe our lives to Remus. The calf she still lives as you can all see.”

Gaby, “Herne you acted rather hasty,”

Remus, “I do not seek vengeance against Herne in fact I was looking forward to working with him. I do not even want him to remove the curse completely. I would like it to be modified though so we can all lead a normal life. There are times when it would be an advantage for all of us to still retain the ability to change. Especially if I am looking after the deer in the park.”

Herne, “Remus are you sure about this.”

Sheba, “I am sure there are times when we all would need to go on patrol with Remus. I have a request though from me & all my children. We all will help Herne & Remus when help is needed. In fact some of the little ones still want to be able to run in the forest as they used to be able to do. I & the older females would like to settle down to normal family life with a job of some sort. With this in mind Empress I propose we merge our packs & we recognise you as our pack leader & companion.”

Gaby, “Remus are you also merging your pack.”

Remus, “Sheba's word is law so mine is already merged.”

Gaby, “I was asking you not Sheba or Shera.”
Sheba spoke for Remus. “He always is an outdoors person. He will come in for his meals but he will work sleep outside as he has done for as long as I can remember. I am sure the cubs will some days like to accompany their father on his new duties. I like Sheba will be quite happy for you to be our pack leader. I am looking forward to a more normal life.”

Gaby, “Remus before you & Herne resume your duties. I would like you to carry all three deer to me & place them in front of me. Herne you are to stay where you are.”

Gaby, “Spirits of the Moors & Heath lands I know you are in there sisters of Herne. Come out & show your true self’s & let these little ones be free again. The deer started to shimmer & glow.”

Herne, “Gaby you have separated them.” Before them stood 3 women who could have been Shera's sisters.”

Gaby smiled, “I made a mistake Herne you have four sisters here,”

“I am Shabra & yes we are the spirits of the moors & forests. Both Shera & I knew this day would come. We met you before in a different guise when all the animals declared you their queen.”

Simone appeared with a crown, “Spirit sisters it is your job to place this on Gaby.” Simone held her finger up to tell Gaby to keep quiet.

Shera, “Empress our pack is merged with yours. They are all yours now. Likewise we place the spirit crown upon your head. You rule all the spirits. We unlike some of our sisters will be with you constantly. Your companions are already feeling our presence as you absorb our powers.”

The Gypsies & the pool of femininity.

There was a knock at the door & a giant stag came in. Lord Herne, “Three men with dogs but no weapons have crossed into the park. They appear to be going hunting which is forbidden.”

Herne, “How many dogs?”

Sheba, “Son this time do not refuse help as we are all going to get them.

Gaby, “If possible chase them into the pool of femininity.” They saw the dog where off the leads & going for the deer. The dogs where no match for Sheba & the pack who tore them to shreds. The men saw what happened & started to run. They ran straight into the pool of femininity.
Sheba & the other transformed back to their human form.

Sheba, “Hello girls are you enjoying yourselves.”

One of the three men, “We fell into the pool & appear to be stuck. Can you help us out please?”

Sheba, “You are not men are you? Because the pool will only release you if you are a female. One of the men slipped & went under but his companion grabbed him & pulled him back & then slipped himself. Eventually they got out of the pool.

Sheba, “We will take you three back with us & let you get cleaned up. A shower should remove that mud you are all covered in.” The three men where led to a changing room & told to dump all their wet clothing in a pile by the door & it would be dealt with.

One Gypsy, “Good job for us they think we are girls. It must be the hormones we were taking. That butcher is going to be peeved though when we do not return his dogs. I suppose we will have to try a different route to get our desired wishes. Yes it is a real bummer the Doctor has refused to operate on the NHS so we have to go private. Mum has not the money to lend us & this seamed ideal.”

Gypsy Two, “Yes but we forgot the deer belong to somebody & we were stealing them. Do you think we should tell them the truth & beg for mercy?”

Gypsy Three. “We could but would we be better off keeping quiet & continuing to pretend we are girls.”

Gypsy Two, “Well I for one do not relish meeting up with mother if she finds out we might as well go and throw ourselves in the lions cage because they would be more welcoming than mother.”

Gypsy Three, “Can you imagine what she will say when she finds out we intended going poaching to pay for our operations. I wish though we could have raised the money in some legitimate way. At least we did not harm the deer & we got a good soaking.”

Gypsy One, “I wonder what happened to the dogs. Well if we can hide here the butcher cannot find us. Perhaps the girls could find us some job. Look at the size of this place they must need cooks, cleaners, maids to help maintain it.”

In another part of the complex their mother was talking with her sister & nieces. “I do not know what I am going to do with those sons of mine they are always in trouble. It is a pity I do not have three good obedient daughters like yours.”

“Ah yes but they were not always like this or at least one was not & he was led by his brothers into trouble.”

“A bit like mine one is good & two not so good but they stick together like glue. I know they are up to some money making scam but do not know what. I suppose I will be having the police round telling me they are in Armley Jail for this or that. Well Sister if they do then the sentence will not be the only thing they will be getting. That eldest of mine is sure in for a big shock.”

Cleo entered the room, “Ladies Gaby has sent me to ask for your help. We found these piles of clothing near the woods. We think they might belong to three girls we found close by but they refuse to give us their names or where they live. We have dried it all out but not washed the items yet. Gaby thought that you might be able to use some of your magic to tell us about the group. We have tried to mind read them all but they seem able to block us.”

The gypsy woman looked & felt at the articles brought to her & then called her daughters over. “Have you seen this clothing before?” The two girls looked at each other.

“Mum we have seen some very similar. Show them to Aunt & see what she says.”

“Sister I have been given a task to do by my employer. The boss needs to identify three strangers who refuse to give their names. All we have is this clothing to identify them.”

The gypsy woman looked at the clothing and almost exploded with rage. “Where are those three good for nothings this time they are going over my knee and they will get a taste of my hairbrush?”

“Do you mind Aunt if we watch you spank our cousins.”

“Cleo can you take us to the guests as this is their mother who was coming to me for help with her sons.” Neither girl recognised their mother.

Gaby, “They apparently fell into the pool of femininity. If these where your sons then they certainly no longer are.”

“It makes no difference to me sons or daughters they are all going to get what I should have done long since. Can I borrow that butter patter as I left my hair brush? Right Levi you are first to go over my knee & then perhaps you will remember who you are.” Levi fairly shrieked as her mother paddled her backside. “I think I should rename you perhaps Elvira would be better. Now for your Brother.”

“Yes mum I am ready.”

“Joshua no longer fits you either it better be Shuna. Finally Enoch my youngest of should I say Vera. Empress I apologise for my children trespassing & they will make amends to you for any damage they have done.”

Three crying females went in front of Gaby. Elvira, Vera & Shuna curtsied in front of Gaby, “We apologise for trespassing. We were hoping to raise some money & the butcher in Bradford offered us a way to make some easy money. He would give us his hunting dogs & all we had to do was capture some deer for him to sell & he would give us the money we needed. Shuna told me it was not a good idea but decided to stay with us to keep us out of trouble. We lost the dogs & fell into the pool & got no deer. The butcher is going to be looking for us. We were supposed to contact him when we had the deer. He would come & collect them & pay us off.”

Gaby, “So you all fell in the pool before you could actually steal any of my deer.”

The old Gypsy woman, “I have a good mind to give you all another paddling.”

Gaby, “I am sorry I cannot permit that they are after all my guests. Girls what did you want the money for?”

Shuna, “We asked mother for help & she was not forth coming with any money. I wanted to go & ask Aunt but Elvira had other ideas. What we wanted it for does not matter as now it is too late.”

Lyris came in with Lily & that small group. Lyris, “Hello you two look better now than when I last saw you. I see you have your sister with you this time.”

Gaby, “Do you know them Lyris.”

“I sure do & they where been very helpful. They spotted a boy been beaten up at the gala field & went to help him.”

Elvira, “Only it was not a boy but a girl who was a tom boy.”

Lyris, “The boys you chased off came back with some friends & set into you two for protecting the girl earlier.”

Elvira, “We where black & blue for weeks after.”

The Gypsy woman, “Why did you two not tell me the truth rather than think you had been fighting each other.”

Elvira, “It is more respectable for folks like us to be fighting men than admit that we had been attacked by kids.”

Lyris, “They gave help when it was needed & unlike some of the others I can open the door to their minds. Gaby can we switch on the Lily Vision.”

A screen opened up in front of them. It showed two gypsy women with their babies. The children growing up & still playing together.

Gaby, “Stop let’s see what they are doing here.”

One of the Gypsy women, “I forgot about that. After old Amos died of cancer they along with some friends & cousins decided to raise money for the Sue Ryder home. They put on a show. They though where rather short of female dancers so these five dressed as girls & did the dancing with the girls.”

“Yes I remember now they had us telling fortunes. Our Sadie was in the kissing booth all day. Between us we raise £20,000 that day. The girls also presented the cheque to Manor lands.”

The Lily Vision continued. Lyris, “Stop I did not know there were mermaids.”

The Gypsy women laughed, “They & their friends dressed as fairies & mermaids & ran a mile & swam a mile for charity.”

Elvira, “That was for the Martin house appeal & we got £15,900 that time.”

Gaby, “So the money this time was that for charity also?”

Lyris, “They will not say what they wanted the money for but I will. They all needed help themselves & it was rather a large sum they needed. They had already raised most of the money they needed but where still short.”

The old gypsy woman started on to them again. Gaby, “Let Lyris continue please.”

Elvira, “No it is time we said what we wanted it for. As now it no longer matters & you can have the money we raised for one of your favourite charities.”

Gaby, “Please explain.” Elvira looked at her sisters, “For a long time we all have known our Aura was pink & we knew we were in the wrong body. We went to see about help on the NHS but there was a two year waiting list before we would be seen. We looked at the private option & that is what we where wanting the money for.”

Gaby, “So to be honest you are not upset about falling into the pool of femininity.”

Elvira, “Upset we were ecstatic. The pool has done more for us in a few minutes that the doctors could in years. Now our persona & auras now both match. As for trespassing & attempting poaching then the punishment is up to you.”

Gaby, “Elvira what was the butchers name & then I will consider your punishment.”

Elvira, “Well he will not recognise either of us now. His name is Jacob Pertoski & the shop is in Eccleshill Bradford it used to be called Parrots butchers.”

Anna, “You did say Jacob Pertoski?” Gaby if it is who I think it is then I want to be the one to punish him.”

Victoria, “Mother it cannot be the same one as he ran out on us when we were very young.”

Elvira, “Well this one has his left index finger missing.”

Gaby,” Anna am I to take it you might know this person. Furthermore am I given to understand you have a score or two to settle with him?”

Anna, “If you call been abandoned with two bambinos a score to settle then yes I have much to sort out.”

Daisy, Poppy, & the flowers were dispatched to bring back Jacob Pertoski & any family. Daisy & the group got to the shop. There they found two teenage girls serving.

“Hello can we help you?”

“I am looking for Jacob Pertoski.”

“Sorry you are too late dad is dead. You can talk with mum.”
Daisy, “It concerns some dogs your father owns.”

“Oh dad got rid of them to some gypsies & we are glad they have gone.”

Daisy, “Well I would like to talk to your mother if possible.”

“Mum there are some ladies who wish to talk to you.” The mother came & looked at the waiting group.

“Girls have we much stock left.”

“Not much mum.”

“Can you take what is left to the homeless shelter or the old folks welfare & give them it & say we are closing early today & we do not know when we will be open again. Then get back here as fast as you both can.”
Daisy, “From that I take it you know why we are here. I take it you actually are Jacob.”

“I was Jacob but he is gone. I am Irene Anna. My daughters are Anna Victoria & Petra Anna. Would you like a drink & some cake? The girls will not be long. I always send the meat at the end of the week to those two places. I remember what it was like in Russia & so they always get my weekly left over’s. Although I do not know your names I do know my Anna has located me at last.”

Little Lilly was looking hard at Irene Anna. “I did genuinely miss her. I am not just saying it. I was forced to abandon my wife & bambinos.”

Poppy, “As we have been instructed to return with you & any family you may have.”

Jacob, “Before we all depart there is something I & the girls will wish to do.”

Jacob stood at the graveside in Undercliffe cemetery & said, “Hello darling I have come to place these flowers on your grave. I do not know when I will return again to talk to you. Friends of my Anna have found me & want me to go away with them. I wish you could join us even if it is only in spirit.”

Jacob failed to notice the cloud that settled over him & gradually dispersed. “I am sorry that I took your identity but everyone thought it was me that had been killed. We both know I had been looking more like you & after talking it out with the girls they preferred it if I stayed as their mother.”

Jacob heard a voice in his head, “I can hear you Jacob. Yes Jacob you offered to share your body with me so that is what we are doing. The girls will still have the both of us & I will get to meet your first wife. I am looking forward to your explanation & she will also be in for a shock when she sees you look like a page three girl.”

Back at the castle Lyris was speaking. “Gaby you are wondering what to do with the Gypsies. I have a couple of suggestions. Before I make my suggestion though I need to know some other details. When you previously danced for charity who where the other dancers?”

The two old ladies, “That is easy it was our sisters children their cousins.” Ariel & Darcie went to collect the sisters & their children.

Lyris, “Gaby I would like to create a Gypsy dance troop if possible. In addition I would like these three as practice material. Do not be afraid we are not going to harm any of you. Lily was right in saying it was hard to read your minds. It is not impossible as I have proved you only need the correct key. None of them will honestly tell us their feelings. Neither will they tell us about their sponsorship. “

Gaby, “I take it these three have been sponsoring children abroad like their cousins.”

Lyris, “No theirs is closer to home & they have about 100 children they try and help. Like I said all I needed was the correct key. That is why I would like to use these to practice on. Lily although she is stronger than me was looking for the wrong key so we all need to practice.”

Elvira, “We discovered at the doctors we are sterile. We could never give any girl a child. Apparently we have more female hormone coursing through our veins than male. The doctor tried injections but they did not work. In fact they made us sick. That is why we wanted the operation. Contrary to what mother thought we have not been gambling our money away. Most of what we make goes to the home for children that have been abandoned by their parents.”

Gaby, “You mean an orphanage.”

Lyris, “No this is a special centre it is for Downs or disabled children whose parents cannot cope. They were hoping to be able to take the children to a theme park for a holiday.”

Ariel & Darcie returned with a rather bedraggled group of Gypsies. One of the females went in front of Gaby & started shaking.

“Please do not harm our children I will do all you want.”

Gaby, “Calm down I have no intention of harming them.”

The woman, “Even if my sisters do not know you I do. We have been summoned here because of me. I am sorry & will not do it again. Please do not harm the children & I will give you my life forever.”

Gaby, “The children will not be harmed although they will be washed & cleaned & then brought back here. Now what am I to do with you? In front of all these you have placed your life in my hands.”

Lyris looked at the now clean group, “Where are the rest of them?”

The woman kneeling in front of Gaby looked more terrified than ever when she realised some of the girls were not there. Her sister, “I presume you mean the older girls. They all went to Scarborough for the day & they were hoping to see the director of the show as they understand he is looking for gypsy dancers.”

Gaby, “Bridget have you interviewed for the gypsy dancers yet.”

Bridget, “I was about to do that as I am running late.”

Gaby, “Apologise to the dancers & bring them all here & I will personally see them all.”

“Gaby you want them all now.”

Gaby “Is their one lot that appear to be a group.”

Bridget, “Rather undernourished & scruffy.”

Gaby, “Give them all a high energy drink & ask them to shower & put on leotards & pumps. Do not bother about cost just charge it to me.”

Bridget went back, “I am sorry for the delay. The director has decided to see you all personally & has instructed me to feed you all & fit you all with the necessary clothing.”

“The director is a stickler for cleanliness so all of us have to shower before we dance and again after we have finished. I hope this is no problem for any of you. After you have showered I will issue all of you with the same pants, tights, leotard & pumps. Please place all your belongings in a locker. Once you are dressed you will all dance together so I can see how you gel. I understand the director has already chosen four girls or five girls but there are still plenty of places left.”

The gypsy girls looked at each other, “Perhaps one or two of us will get a job and if not we have a meal out of it.”

Bridget, “All you all need now is a wraparound & a tambourine each.”

The Gypsy girls smiled.” If we all do the same routine then we might get chosen.”

Bridget, “I am going to sit down now but when you all here the music you are to come on in pairs dancing a traditional gypsy dance. Now to see if you can all do it correctly.”

Lyris had taken the other five & said you and I will join them but you all will be correctly dressed. I will be dressed as a gypsy Princess.” The four looked down & realised they were already dressed as Gypsy girls. In pairs the girls came on & Gaby appeared to be making notes. Then the tempo speeded up & Lyris came on with the other five. “One by one the others curtsied to Lyris & her five companions.”

Even the non-gypsy girls followed their example. Gaby, “Today I have two experts on gypsy dancing with me. I have engaged them to teach you all the dances they know.”

One of the girls, “Excuse me director but I was under the impression you were going to select the dancers from this group.”

Gaby, “Sorry I should have told you all that you all will be working as a team.”

“Yippee”. Went up from the gypsy girls.

One of the new girls turned to Lyris, “I copied the others but why did they all curtsey to you?”

Lyris, “Most of the others you are dancing with are true gypsies & as such recognised that I was dressed as a gypsy princess. Their response was automatic as they would do normally. Watch their reaction in a minute when the director comes down. Gaby accompanied by Maddy started to walk down the line of dancers.

The first girl, “Mama MIA the heavenly Queen.” One by one the girls curtsied & covered their faces.

Lyris whispered, “Just curtsy there is no need to cover your face like the gypsy girls.”

The girl felt her heartbeat racing as Gaby took her by her hand. “You appear to be the odd one out come join me. You are no gypsy but you dance like one.”

The young woman burst into tears, “Director I will go, “I was friends with two gypsy boys long ago & they taught me when their sisters would not.”

Gaby, “You are very good but twice you did things a true gypsy would not. You accepted the offered hand from Lyris & you looked me in the face.”

“To be honest director I have been getting these urges to kiss you & I am fighting it with all my might. I appear to be attracted to you & yet I know nothing about you. If I give in to my emotions I would be in bed with you like a shot. I do not know what is wrong with me I never before have wanted to sleep or make love to another woman. Please excuse the urge is getting to great.” The next second she threw herself at Gaby. Eventually she came up for air. “Sorry Director I will leave I honestly do not know what came over me.”

Maddy, “You appear to have somehow got a case Gabyitis & have it very badly.”

The Young woman, “Is there a cure?” She also noticed the gypsy girls where all treating her differently now. She spoke to the two old gypsies “Why have the girls started treating me differently? I am only like them young and female.”

“Nay lass you are not like them you dance like a gypsy & do it very well. They though are my daughters & nieces. Your little friend is like you a companion. Have you not just kissed the Director in front of us all? Only companions are allowed to do that. You should be dressed more appropriately now as all companions are.”

“Will I still be allowed to dance with your daughters & nieces again?”

The gypsy women laughed, “You are the queen’s representative & you will dance with us when you want to or if you are instructed to.”

“Sorry director they are all telling me I have a bad case of Gabyitis. I better go looking for a doctor.”

Gaby, “Has Maddy diagnosed you with it.”

“Yes director both her & Lyris.”

“Well those two are experts on Gabyitis. You will have to listen to all they tell you.” Gaby & Maddy left chuckling away leaving Lyris in charge.

The two older gypsies where soon putting the girls through their paces. For part of it Lysandra & Lyris had to sit down while the others danced. Lyris, “Now it is our turn.” Gaby continued to watch unobserved.”

Maddy, “Who was driving her to kiss you.”

Gaby, “Let’s go and pay Little Lily a visit as I am sure it came from that group.”

“Hi Gaby we were just practising. Have any of the gypsy girls tried to kiss you yet?”

Gaby, “No Why?”

“Well the class was sending signals to them to kiss you.”

Gaby, “Now I understand where the case of Gabyitis has come from.” Lysandra was complaining that she was been made to kiss me & that she felt compelled to sleep with me.”

Little Lily. “Is that is the only none gypsy in the team.”

Gaby, “She is receiving you all loud & clear. To prove it ask her to come here immediately & propose to me. Within a short while Lysandra came in with Lyris.

“Director I realise you will think this is strange but I feel compelled to ask you to be my partner. I realise you will find this rather odd director but several weeks ago I went to the doctors as I was hearing voices in my head. The doctor told me it was probably stress & to take a holiday. I did as recommended & noticed that the theatre group was looking for gypsy dancers. The voice in my head was telling me to apply for the job. As I was truly fed up with my current position I decided to give it a try. I did not expect to be selected. Please excuse me for a minute or two while I say a prayer or two & then I will return to talk to you. “

“Holy mother, Heavenly Queen, I do not know what is wrong with me. I find myself attracted to the Director & even went & proposed to her. I know this is wrong but I cannot help myself. Heaven’s Queen long ago I promised with my Gypsy friends to only serve you.”

The voice was back in her head, “Lysandra do you remember your vows.”

Lysandra, “I Lysandra & my five friends from this day forward. Take the Heavenly Queen as our companion. From this day forward until the day of reckoning we only serve thee Mistress of light. We six seal this with our blood. We give it to you to do as you see fit.”

The voices vanished as Lysandra said, “Heavenly Queen please send thy angels to keep guard on me and keep me on the true path.”

Lucy, “Do you want me to go to her boss?” Lucy entered the room. The director wondered if you have finished you prayers.”

“Sorry she must think I am a right freak.”

Lucy. “No more than the rest of us.”

“I have never done that before. I do not know what came over me. As soon as I get anywhere near the director I want to rip her pants off. I was even dreaming I was having her baby. I was praying to the heavenly Queen for guidance. I even asked for her to send an angel to guide me. My parents would be disgusted with my thoughts at the moment. I have been getting voices in German, English, Chinese & Russian all telling me that Gabyitis will not go away until I formalise my agreement with the director.”

Lucy, “For the moment forget the gypsy dance team. Let me & my sisters see how good a receiver you actually are.”

“I am not bad at dancing but neither am I Diva material.”

Lucy, “This studio is where my sisters & I practice.” Lucy put on a disc & several other girls appeared.

Lysandra, “I remember this it is the dance of the heavenly messengers.”

Lucy, “See if you can do it with us then.”
Lysandra, “Your version is slightly different to what I was taught but it was only the last little bit.”

“You game for another dance.” said a voice.

Lysandra, “If you have the stamina then I have also yes let’s keep going.”
Lysandra lost track of time & continued dancing with her new friends.

Lyris brought some drinks in, “Lysandra the director has decided you will dance the part of the heavenly messenger & not a gypsy.”

Lysandra, “As I feel at the moment I could dance that part for all eternity. Lucy I wish to thank you and your sisters for all your help. I wish you where all my sisters & then I could practice with you daily.”

Lucy, “We have rather a lot of singing & dancing to do in our job.”

Lysandra, “After this drink let’s see if we can out sing each other. Do you know the Song of Mary? I never go anywhere without my guitar.”

Lysandra started to play & sing. The Lily broadcasting system ensured everybody heard.

Lucy, “Lysandra do you know any of Garth Hewitt’s numbers?”

Lysandra went in to several of them & then switched to the 23 psalm. “I used to be in the church choir & I have a thing for religious songs.”

Peter was listening & sent somebody to find out who was singing & playing.

Lucy noticed the observer, “Inform father this is our latest addition Lysandra.”

“Lucy Father sends his greetings & says could he have an invite to the opening night.”

Lysandra, “What was that about?”

“Oh it was only a talent scout who wanted to book you. I explained you already had a manager & a full booking. You do have a marvellous voice though.”

Lysandra started to pray again, “Thank you for giving me Lucy & her sisters. They are looking after me very well.” The voices in my head seemed to be abating. I have been offered a job dancing as the Heavenly messenger in the dance team.”

Gaby decided to speak direct. “Lysandra do as Lucy & her sisters tell you & I will be pleased. Now go back to Lucy & tell her she has to plan your wedding. Yes I heard your proposal & approve of it. Also tell Lucy that I was pleased how she handled the agent for the choir. I would not have been pleased if she had allowed them to approach you.”

Lysandra, “Lucy I have just been told to tell you that you have to arrange my marriage.”

Lucy, “It is all underhand your sisters are arranging it all for you. You did tell us you wanted to be our sister.”

Lysandra, “Thanks Lucy in that case I want you all as my bridesmaids.”

Lucy, “Have you any preference where you want it to take place.”

Lysandra, “For years I had this dream of where I would be married. The place is a ruin & is called Fountains Abbey in Nidderdale. In my dream I had lots of sisters who where my bridesmaids. My father walked me down the aisle & gave me to my partner. The strange thing was the choir was made up of angels. There was a massive tent for the catering. Lucy I was told to trust you & so I leave all the arrangements to you. There is one thing though my parents are both dead so do you think your father will give me away & your mother stands in the place of my mother.”

Lucy, “If I know my parents they would both have insisted on having a part.”

Lysandra, “Lucy can you & our sisters go & see your parents & ask them to be mine & give me away.”

“Yes Lucy lets go and ask them together.” This brought a giggle from some of the girls.

Lysandra, “Do we have to go far?”

Lucy, “All we have to do is go through this door.”

Lysandra opened the door, “Excuse me I am looking for Lucy & the girl’s parents. I have a favour to ask you both. Lucy & sisters have decided to be my sisters as I have none. Likewise they suggested that you could be my parents as mine are both dead.”

Peter, “I take it you wish me to walk you down the aisle.”

“Lucy had me sign this. I agree of my own freewill to become a blood sister to Lucy & all her siblings.”

Peter, “We had better sign it then as your parents.”

Lucinder, “Has Lucy made all the arrangements yet.”

“She was sorting the dresses out for herself & the girls. We have to find a choir to fill the abbey.”

Peter, “I think some of your other sisters will do that for you.”

Lysandra.” I did not realise there was anymore or I would have had them as bridesmaids also.”

Lucinder, “You have plenty with what you have already got. I will have to accompany you back to arrange my outfit. We need to go and see Gaby.”

Lysandra,” Director this is my adoptive mother she has come looking for an outfit.”

Gaby, “Lucinder nice to see you here it is not often we get you on your own.”

“I was wondering if you & Maddy would like to have some girl time with us.”

Lysandra, “You know each other.”

Gaby, “We are old friends. In fact your father promised me any of his daughters I discovered here.”

Lysandra smiled, “So Lucy & sisters are already your companions. They want me to join them?”

Gaby, “Please stop calling me director & call me Gaby like the others.”

“Mum I think there is a lot my sisters are not telling me. It does not matter though. Gaby I am still attracted to you although I know my sisters are your companions.”

Lucinder, “Who is up for some heavy duty shopping with my daughter?” The rest of the day was taken up with shopping.

Gaby, “Sorry about this but something has cropped up that requires my attention immediately. Lucy & Lucinder look after her for she will soon have the next generation.”

Lucinder steered the way to talk about babies. “Lysandra have you thought about family.”

Lysandra, “To be honest I would have loved to have lots of babies. I wonder if we can arrange a sperm donation or two.”

Lucinder, “It will not surprise me & your sisters to find you having lots of babies.”

“Well if I do then I expect grandma & Aunts all to help.”

Lucinder, “I promise when you have children I will be there for you.”

Irene Anna, & Family.

Gaby got back, “What is all the fuss and ado about?”

“Gaby we brought the butchers family as requested.”

A woman & two girls stood in front of Gaby. “I am Irene Anna. My daughters are Anna Victoria & Petra Anna.”

Gaby, “You apparently like the name Anna.”

“My late husband insisted we name the girls after his lost love.”

Anna, “You husband is dead?”

Irene Anna, “I can honestly say that all that is left of Jacob is his spirit & that will accompany me where ever I go.”

Anna burst into tears, “I had hoped to see him in the flesh again.”

Irene Anna, “That is impossible but you have me & the girls Anna.”

One of the girls clipped a bracelet on Anna, “Father did love you he never stopped talking about you. He could not return as it would have meant the death sentence for you and the children. He was part of a group of White Russians who where loyal to royal family. Unfortunately somebody gave them away & they all had to flee for their lives. Our Mum also loved Jacob. Jacob knew he could not contact you as it would endanger your & the children's lives. He settled down in a strange country with strange customs. He met mother & they wanted to get married. Jacob had to go and declare he had not seen or contacted his wife for at least seven years. Anna you where then declared legally dead & Jacob got remarried. He told mother all about you & how he had to abandon you & our siblings. We realised that one day we might meet up with you.”

Anna, “You are sure nothing remains of Jacob.”

Anna Petra, “Yes a trace remains. We are his children. The man you knew & loved as Jacob then that person no longer exists.”

Gaby, “If you are truly Jacob's children then I need to do some blood tests to prove it.”

Irene, “You can do all the blood test you want but it will not change a thing.” Irene & the two girls where led to a side room where they all stripped down.

Anna Victoria, “Mum why are they giving us these tests.”

The doctor returned a short while later. “Can you all put these gowns on please?”

Gaby looked at the almost instant results. “The results are interesting to say the least. You are quite correct there is no trace of Jacob in any of you. Yet all three of you have a 100% trace of Anna. Genetically Anna is mother to all three of you.”

Anna Victoria, “That is not possible mum is here with us.”

Anna, “Girls I want an honest answer not a misleading one. Your father did he & your mother look alike?”

Anna Victoria, “Even we had difficulty in telling them apart. Dad died in the accident & we buried him in the Undercliffe Cemetery. Mum is all we have left.”

Anna, “Gaby it is obvious that Jacob will never return. I would like to chat with Irene & the girls on my own. It may be best if they are relocated to my apartments.”

They all left. Little Lily. “Gaby In the body of Irene there also is the mind of Jacob. Apparently they have discovered how to share one body.”

Gaby,” I have decided not to punish Jacob as he no longer exists.”

Maddy, “What do you think happened.”

Gaby, “Jacob was well contaminated with Anna when he left. I presume he contaminated his new wife & they started to look like each other. Then one of them was killed & somehow they discovered that both of them could survive in one body. They have been sharing ever since.”

Gaby, “It does not matter which actually died. Although if we did an exhumation I think we would find a female.”

Maddy, “Irene is female.”

Gaby, “So am I & so is Elizabeth. I think Jacob realised what was happening to him & decided that it would be better all round if it was Jacob who was buried. The girls still had a mother & she would have all the legal documents she would need.”

Anna offered the girl a drink & then said would you like to meet your sisters & dance with them?

“Mum may we.”

“Poppy can you take these to my daughters & tell them they are their sisters & have to be given dancing instruction. Now Booboo you might deceive the others but not me I still recognise those Eyes. How are you enjoying been a mother?”

Irene burst into tears, “I was changing before I left you. I had to bind myself it did not matter when I was with Irene. Irene is here with me if you want to talk to her. I will take a back seat while you both chat.”

Anna, “How do you like been married to my husband.”

Irene. “To be honest meeting Jacob was a godsend for me. Usually I only like female company if you know what I mean. Then I discover a girl who looks like me with a little extra. Did Jacob tell you he breast fed both girls because I was unable to? In fact he has been the mother to the two of them. When I got killed it was no surprise to find Jacob had died & the girls still had a mother.”

Anna, “Do you mind if I talk with Jacob again.”

Anna, “When did you lose the little extra & who with?”

Jacob, “You are the only two I have ever been with & if you must know I was taking a shower when the police called to say there had been an accident. As I was showering it just dropped off & got washed away. I dressed up as Irene & went to the police station the officer said. The body was too badly mangled to identify but they had documents. I said yes that is Jacob's watch & wallet & so Jacob was dead.”

“I went to the grave to say good-by to Irene & tell her I did not know when we would be together again. A cloud enveloped me & I could hear Irene again. She said we are united as one for ever now. The rest you know.”

Anna, “Irene I have a slight problem I was wondering if you could help me out.”

Irene, “Sure what is it?”

“I am lactating & need to relieve myself.” Before she could say any more Irene was sucking on the nipple.

Anna, “The Empress has decided not to punish you Jacob. I have decided that you Irene deserve another chance & I will be your mother. Like you said to me Irene, Jacob is dead. I think I will have twins one called Irene & one called Ella & nobody will tell them apart. I know you both can hear me but that is all you can do. Thanks to my milk Irene & your willingness to relieve me you are now a baby. Do not worry about the girls they are having the time of their lives with their sisters. Well Jacob even if the Empress decided to punish you. She would find it difficult.” Especially as you are going to be absorbed by me. I am one of the few that has not regenerated so far. This is going to change as I give birth to two daughters. I shall become younger again & look no older than the girls do now.”

“The Funny thing is I will look like you did so your daughters will not notice you missing. You both are going to be my babies. Yes Irene you both are going to get the chance to suckle on my breast for quite a while.”

"I already know Jacob used to enjoy it & apparently so did Irene or you would not have transformed. Now I am going to absorb you & you will stay there until I give birth. I can still talk to you both. Even your daughters are genetically mine Jacob so even if they were ever any dispute they would still show as mine. Do you remember your vows with me Jacob? I am sure you do. Irene you got a similar promise like me. In fact you managed to share one body with him. Well for the next nine months or so you will be both sharing my body with me. During this time Irene I will be creating a new body for you. At the end of nine months I will give birth to you both & then have the job of caring for you both. By the time the first 18 years are over your previous memories will have been erased.”

After absorbing Jacob, Anna said, “Gaby if anybody wants me I will be at Oberon's until my children become 18. Just as she forecast Anna gave birth & reared twin girls. When they reached 18 she said, “We are going on a journey to a new home.” Back at the castle they had only been away for 20 minutes or so. Anna returned looking younger with two teenage girls in tow.”

Lily, “Gaby what was the instruction regarding your cousins?”

Gaby, “Well the two daughters of Jacob should be taken as my partners like their sisters.”

“What if Anna has more children?”

Gaby, “Once they become 18 then they will become my partners also.”

Maddy, “Well Aunt Anna is looking younger & already has two girls in tow.”

Gaby, “I wondered where Jacob had gone. What is she calling them?”

“Irene & Ella.”

Cleo, “Anna, The Empress commands your attention & that of all your daughters.”

Gaby, “As you all know all my cousins whether 1st, 2nd or 3rd are to become my partners. Recently returned to us are the daughters of my late Uncle Jacob. As they are four girls all who are of age then it gives me great pleasure in accepting all four to go alongside their two older sisters.”

Anna was speechless. Helen, “I thought there was only two.”

Gaby, “According to this I have four cousins all of marriage age. In fact every one of the six appears to be a clone of Aunt Anna.”

Zelda & Constance looked at the results. “You are correct Gaby,”

Gaby, “Lily can you bring me the CD with the promises Anna & Jacob made & the promises Jacob & Irene made. I suspect that Anna has been controlling him all the time. I also think Aunt Anna while she does not normally use her powers is far more powerful than anybody suspected. What has me suspicious was the fact that Jacob & both his daughters had identical DNA. Even if he had been contaminated the girls would still have had their mothers DNA. I think our Anna has learned to be in two places at once & she created Irene. If Anna was Irene then there would be no trace at all of Jacob's DNA, as Anna’s will have absorbed it.”

They watched the wedding ceremonies. Helen, “It is in the last part of the vows. Usually it is until death do us part. In this case both times it is for all eternity. Look even the ring is the same. I wonder why Aunt Anna decided to go through the charade. Likewise the body that is supposedly buried must be a giant illusion.”

Helen, “Anna has not been going to school for magic she has been teaching dancing.”

Gaby summoned a general meeting. Ladies I love you all but there is one who apparently has been practising magic without my consent. I have to ask them to hand their unauthorised wand over immediately. Secondly as you all know by now four more of my cousins have recently turned up. I have decided that it is only correct that they join their sisters. Likewise Aunt Anna has been on the side lines for a long time & has been teaching dancing. I noticed she has recently regenerated. Aunt Anna we can no longer permit you to sit on the sidelines. Yes you can still teach but in future you will also have to take lessons like everybody else. I would also like to announce that Aunt Anna has decided to join her daughters & like Zelda & Constance also become my eternal companion. With this in mind I have decided that we will get married immediately with Grandma Helen presiding.”

Gaby waved her hands & they all found that they were wearing their wedding outfits.

Anna, “Gaby I have this present for you.”

Gaby looked at the box, “Thank you ANNA. Grandma Galadriel I need you to test Anna, None of us know her capabilities. As she has never gone for lessons.”

Anna, “I will need a wand.” Gaby handed her a wand.

Galadriel, “I will go through the basic ones with you.”

Anna, “Please stop pussyfooting around. By now you will all have realised it was I who had the unauthorised wand. What is the use of a wand when I do not use it? As the Empress has given me a new wand I better use it but I have no need for it. Galadriel if you will be so kind as to keep hold of it so I do not touch it further. Basic test but not holding the wand coming up. Basic flight coming up. There was no spells cast with the old wand so it may be broken without causing problems.”

Little Lily, “Anna move your spirit to my body. Gaby Anna is here now.”

Gaby, “So you transformed Jacob & kept up appearances by entering Jacob.”

Anna, “Actually our minds where already locked & I have always known what he was planning. Like Lily I never needed to be near him. Sorry but Jacob was not actually guilty of sending the Gypsies poaching. I was I read their thoughts & realised they needed help. The dogs where only an illusion as was Irene's death. I thought I had locked the minds of the three gypsies. Lyris though found a way I had over looked & she soon found their real thoughts. They had helped others in difficulties & needed help themselves. They would not have accepted help in the normal way. “

Gaby, “But it was acceptable to ask them to poach from me.”

“The Wolves did a magnificent job of driving them both in to the pool. The three of them got their wish & I did not have to expend magic fulfilling their wishes. The rest of their wishes followed automatically in that they wanted to dance again with their sisters & cousins. This was not acceptable for male Gypsies but totally acceptable for female gypsies.”

Anna, “I will go to school & past the tests like the others but I have no desire to play with magic.”

Lily, “Anna none of our group ever bothers with it but we all know how to use it in an emergency. You should be in my group considering that you can transmit your thoughts to people & you are good at dancing.”

Anna “Lily I only ever transmitted them to Jacob & the gypsies. I have never tried it with others.”

Gaby, “Aunt Anna you have been sitting on the sidelines for far too long. As you have decided to regenerate like Grandma there is no reason why you should not dance again with the troop. Yes I know you like teaching us all but now you also can put in an appearance or two.”

Anna said, “I will if I can get to choose the troop I dance with & there is no argument about it.”

Gaby, “OK but I have the feeling I am going to regret it.”

Anna, “I have another request & it will seem strange coming from your aunt. I have decided like all my daughters I wish to be companion. If I was to join Lily's group every one of them is a companion & I would be the odd one out. Lily is correct though I would be better practising with them & you are right I am young again & could dance. Yes I still have the knowledge of the great Anna. I would like to dance once again in Saint Petersburg.”

Peter came on a visit with Lucinda to see Gaby. “We have come to finalise the wedding arrangements at Fountains Abbey. You still want to go ahead. “

Gaby, “It is what Lysandra wants.”

“Gaby how did you know? She has no memories of being our daughter.”

“Peter she stuck out like a sore thumb. All her actions where perfect. But the knowledge was not there.”

Lysandra came in, “Gaby have my adopted parents been telling you I want loads of children. To be more precise mum wants to be bouncing a grandchild or two on her knee.”

“Peter you certainly look younger after the girls persuaded you to trim that beard.”

Lucinder, “Unfortunately it also makes him friskier.”

Lysandra & Gaby giggled. “Mum it will be me bouncing my sisters on my knee before long.”

Peter, “I thought I would let you know I have arranged the choir for my daughter. Lucy & her sisters are all going to be bridesmaids for Lysandra. Lucinda has arranged for tents to be erected for the reception.”

Gaby, “Zelda can you take all the cadets & restore the abbey the abbey to its former glory like they did up at Ingleborough. I already have permission from English Heritage & National Trust to use the Abbey for the wedding & to carry out any repairs that are required.”

Wedding day for Lysandra.

Zelda waved her arm & she & all the cadets appear to be dressed as monks.

Zelda, “It is in case anybody sees us they will see monks & think they have seen ghosts of the former inhabitants.”

Starr, “I hope not too many people see us. Zelda & the cadets soon had the Abbey back to its former Glory. Lyris & the girls were exploring the site & Lyris found a stone with strange writing & called Zelda over “Zelda Can you read this?”

Zelda looked at it. “It is in an old script but I understand it. It reads I Prior Moon of Bolton being descended from the ancients. I hide below here the ancient relics that were held in my priory. Also lie sleeping below this stone the ancients until they are restored to be with their family. I return to Bolton the agents of the king will soon be here to claim both places. I will do my best to save what I can. I will die still been true to the living lord.”

Lyris transmitted the finds to Gaby, “Stay there & explore further. I am taking my own team to Bolton. Anne, Margaret, Amelia. You shall join us at Bolton when I go looking for Prior Moons Tomb.”

Anne, “I know where the tomb was or is providing the Abbey has not been altered too much. As they arrived Anne said, “These Glass doors are different but the church has not altered much other than the High altar been tiled.”

Amelia, “Yes a distant relative of mine did that.”

Anne, “Here is the tomb. Prior Moon actually continued as parish priest & even received a pension from Henry.” They read the stone here lays Prior Moon the last of his line. He served his people well & tended to all their needs.”

Gaby, “Prior Moon come to me.” The stone slab slid away to reveal a stone staircase. Prior Moon I command you come here this instant. I have no intention of coming down there looking for you.” Slowly a rather bedraggled figure emerged from the crypt.

The figure, “Mistress I come to do your biding although I am a mess & could do with awash & clean clothing.”

Gaby, “We will trim your beard for you & then you can bathe in the Wharf. Once we get you home we will sort out your hair.”

Prior Moon looked around & saw Anne & Margaret. “Mistresses I did not see you both.”

Anne, “Relax Prior Moon we need your help at Fountains.”

Prior Moon bathed in the Wharf & then came out. “It is a long time since I last did that. May I ask who is probing my mind to check me out?”

Gaby, “I assure you it is nobody here but the ones concerned require your help.”

Prior Moon, “WHY.”

Gaby, “Tomorrow I am to take new companions in the ancient Abbey of Fountains. Guess what my team found there.”

Prior Moon, “They have not tried to remove the stone?”

Gaby, “They were checking to see if we had you.”

Prior Moon, “Have you some bread & meat?”

Gaby, “I have laid a meal on for you. I have arranged for somebody to sort your hair out before we depart for Fountains.” Prior Moon found he was having another bath in very hot soapy water. He also found a girl called Sandy had come to prepare his hair.

“That is a strange smell.”

Sandy, “Just sit back & let me get on the mistress has given me instructions.” She rubbed some cream on his face, “That should get rid of the remaining whiskers. Now will you just stand in that cabinet with only your head sticking out of it.” Sandy pressed the button to fire the lasers, which would remove all the body hair from Prior Moon.

Prior Moon, “I appear to be getting wet all over again.”

Sandy, “In a minute the dryer will start & once it stops you can step out into this.”

Prior Moon looked at the robe, “That is the Robe of the ancients.”

Prior Moon put the robe on & fastened the belt. “I have to escort you to the mistress now you are clean & correctly attired. Prior Moon Empress.

Gaby, “Greetings Prior Moon come eat with us. Prior as our guest I ask you to say grace before we start.”

“O lord for this bounteous harvest laid before us we thank you. Gracious lord for what we are all about to consume we truly thank you. Queen of Heaven with thy angels I gladly eat.”

Gaby, “Now Prior we must now go to Fountains to my children.” Prior Moon followed the others & found himself between Lady Margaret & Lady Anne.

“Mistress Anne it is nice to see you survived & you Lady Margaret.

Anne, “Gaby has set herself the task of reuniting us all. “So far she has done very well. She & her friends have the knack of finding us.”

Amelia, “They manage to turn up just when help is needed. I had to sell up everything when the girls arrived. Others here are where in a similar situation. Some like Nesters children actually called for help.”

Zelda was waiting with the girls & said, “Since our initial discovery we have uncovered several more stones that are very similar.”

Zelda looked at Prior Moon, “I presume these are your brothers.”

“I was chosen as the youngest to be the guardian of the stones. None of us can or will harm you.”

Prior Moon went over to the stone, “In the name of the Heavenly Queen I command you open.” The stone rolled back revealing a cave. “This is our library & now I hand it to you Gaby” With a waved her hand the library disappeared.

Gaby, “They will give grandma something to read for some time to come.”

Prior Moon handed over a hazel stick, “You must break my power.”

Gaby, “I will replace all of them although none of you will need them.” Gaby broke the wand in half & left it in the cave.

Prior Moon then handed Gaby a necklace, “This is the source of all our power. We call it the dragon heart.”

As Gaby touched it the necklace started to disintegrate. Prior Moon looked, “I am finally free of the Dragon heart I guarded it & hid it.”

Gaby, “Wrong you can never be free of it. The dragon heart has returned to where it belongs just as you have returned to where you belong. Now to free your brothers from there enchanted caves & their eternal sleep. Brothers of Prior Moon the dragon heart is returned to its rightful place awaken from your slumber & are reunited with the Golden Dragon.”

Gaby then pointed her finger at each of the caves in turn. Prior Moon was on his knees when the Blue fire left Gaby's hands. One by one the entrances exploded. Poor Prior Moon was shaking & trembling.”

Gaby, “They chose you because you where the most inexperienced of all.” One by one the brothers emerged. For a short while they talked with each other & then in pairs advanced towards Gaby.

Gaby looked at the leader, “You remind me of a friend.”

The Leader, “You have met our brother?”

Gaby, “These days your brother has retired & has a new life.”

“Will we receive the same as our brother?”

Gaby, “He was & still is my friend. I received far too many complaints concerning his behaviour & as such had to curb his excesses. He still lives with Juno & if you wish to speak he is here although you will not recognise him.”

Juno stepped forward with a teenage girl. The ancient cracked out laughing, “I suppose you are called Sue again.”

“Gaby Mother always punished us by making us girls. He was always naughty & we suspected he preferred his female form.”

Helen appeared, “Children you are forgetting something your wands.”

“Mother you are here also we thought you were sleeping in Greece.”

Helen, “I was until my granddaughter called for me so hand your wands to your niece.”

“Sorry mother but is our brother now permanently in that state?”

Gaby, “Yes he is do you wish to join him?”

Prior Moon, “I do not mind if it means that I will be young again like my sister.” One by one the druids handed their wands to Gaby who ceremoniously broke them.

Gaby, “Tonight & tomorrow is the time for rejoicing. After that Helen can present her remaining sons.”

Prior Moon, “I speak on behalf of all my brothers here. When we were given the dragon heart to guard. We understood we would become companions to the Empress for all eternity. With that in mind we gave up all chance of ever sitting in Valhalla like Odin. We all became the servants of the Dragon Queen.”

Gaby, “I take it you still all want to be Companions of the Dragon Queen. I will tell you now you will all be young again but to give you chance to change your mind. You will not become companions until All Hallows Day. If you still desire it then you will become my eternal companions as all your sisters have.”

One of the Brothers, “Mistress your companions have already read out hearts & minds. You already know our hopes & desires. Yes we could have used magic to defend ourselves but in doing so we would have contaminated ourselves. We managed to convince the Romans they were fighting hoard of Britons when they were actually fighting themselves. They did find some young boys who were sleeping rough but that is all they got. We escaped. Likewise Boudicca wiped out two whole legions. We decided not to oppose Henry when he ordered the disillusion. Brother Moon was placed in charge of handing the documentation over & received a pension for his loyalty. We decided to wait until our brother came for us.”

Gaby, “Many centuries have passed & soon I will take among others Henry's kingdoms.”

Prior Moon started to laugh, “I had to promise Henry that I would remain loyal to his successors be they male or female. I had a rough time under Mary but Elizabeth was so like her father. The one I wanted to be Queen stands at the side of me though. Lady Anne was very lucky that Elizabeth never saw her as a threat or like Catherine & Mary her head would have rolled. Elizabeth also knew if anything happened to Anne then the whole North & a very large proportion of the south would have arose against her. Lady Anne to all intents & purposes was the most powerful woman in the kingdom. Anne though always remained loyal to Elizabeth. She could have claimed the throne herself when James came from Scotland but decided against it.”

Prior Moon joined his brothers they noticed they were all dressed alike. He said, “We all almost look like companions now with our long white & gold Robes & Long Blond hair. I am going to have a word with mother about this companion business & find out what we are letting ourselves in for & what exactly is required of us. Brother we have all given our word & we do not go back on it.”

Helen came to talk to them. “The Empress tells me you all have some doubts.”

Prior Moon, “We are wondering just what we have let ourselves in for.”

Helen, “It is far too late to have doubts if you had doubts then you should have long ago joined Neptune & the others.”

“Mother you know we would never do that. We promised to serve the Dragon heart & all who possessed it.”

Helen, “I remember now you all promised to serve the Dragon heart & forsake all others.”

Prior Moon, “I was going to place the Dragon Heart around Gaby's neck but when it touched her it started to vanish. Mother I am guilty of losing the dragon heart.”

Helen, “Nonsense The dragon heart has returned to the golden dragon as prophesied.”

“Then the Golden dragon already owns us & we cannot become companions of the Empress.”

Helen, “Look at your wrists whose mark does you see.”

The Brothers looked at their wrist, “It is not yours mother.”

Helen, “You all know you where purposely chosen because of your personality. Yes I dressed your brothers as a punishment. For you all though it would not have been a punishment. What the Empress has not told you all is on All Hallows you will all become my daughters as originally intended & become her companions like those tonight. Prior Moon smiled, “Do we all get to look like our brother?”

Helen, “If it is your will. Likewise if you wish to restart again it can be arranged.”

Prior Moon, “Mother what we would like to all do is for you to give birth to us again as girls & have our older sisters look after us & present us to the Empress on our 18th birthday.”

Helen looked around, “I will need all your sisters as there are two many of you for me to cope on my own.”

Galadriel appeared, “Hello Tich are you going to give me a cuddle?”

“Galadriel are you a companion?”

“Seeing as Gaby is my Great grand Daughter I should say so.”

“If Gaby actually is your Great Granddaughter then she is our great, great Niece.”

Galadriel Laughed, “That is correct & you also have promised Henry to be loyal to her. You also promised to be companions to the Dragon Queen. That is another of Gaby's titles as is Queen of Heaven.”

“Mother we cannot get out of it even if we wanted to without breaking my word. Likewise the same is applicable to our brothers. Galadriel will you ask our older sisters if after Gaby's latest marriage if they will help bring their sisters up & rename us as I think Prior Moon will no longer be suitable.”

“Tich you know you where always my favourite & we will be glad to help. Besides I always enjoy a holiday at Oberon's.”

Shortly after Lysandra wedding Helen went to the Isle of Man for a visit with all her daughters. She returned I8 minutes later with her teenage daughters.

Gaby, “I presume you wish to present them & have them claim their wings now.”

Helen, “They have all done as requested all those years ago.”

Gaby, “In that case I think that starting with Grandma Galadriel she & her sisters should name two each of their new sisters & while we are at it my gypsies have not yet been presented to us.”

Lysandra came & stood close to Gaby, “Your Aunt Anna also has some presentations to make has she to do them at the same time.”

Gaby “Is there anybody we have missed who has not presented their children.”

The Magi, “Are we allowed to participate?”

Gaby, “You served Gilda loyally & still do.”

“That loyalty extends to all Gilda's extended family & especially you Empress. As Magi we are not bound like the others but from this day all Magi will come directly under your control.”

Gaby, “I have no wish to control you. I want you to be able to think for yourselves.”

The Magi approached Gaby & handed her a mace. “Accepting this Mace it puts all Magi under your direct control be they good or bad. By pressing the underside of the mace you absorb all its powers & only if asked personally can a Magi power be restored.”

Gaby immediately pressed the base & felt the powers flow into her. “You may now be presented & will all receive a wand from me although you will never need to use it. I though will have to test each of you to see your abilities.”

“Mistress all our abilities we now share with you.”

Gilda, “Gaby do you mind if I sit on one side of you?” “For the presentation?”

Maddy, “Aunt Gilda, You can have my seat as I have to be elsewhere.”

Gaby, “Maddy are you sure you want to do this?”

“Gaby you know we are both one body. It will not harm to let Gilda sit in my chair for a while during the presentations.”

The Magi who had handed Gaby the mace, “I will introduce all being the Senior Magi.” The magi all came up in pairs & each passed the set tasks.

The last two pairs, “Mistress we were supposed to be companions to Mehitabel. We wondered seeing as she is now one of your companions if we might be joined with her & you. We realise we are only Magi.”

Gilda, “It is true they were to be bound to Mehitabel.”

Gaby, “What has the Magi Chief to say?”

“Empress all four where bound from birth to Mehitabel. They where suppose to see to her every need. Although they never went through the final ceremony they are still bound.”

Gaby, “I would like you four to perform some magic for me. Mehitabel I want you to go & join Maddy now.”

Mehitabel looked puzzled for a moment, “Oh OK I will go there now.” She vanished. For a moment all four where distraught & then they smiled.

“Empress have we permission to join Maddy & Mehitabel?”

Gaby, “If you are truly linked to them & can find them then I will accept you as companions. You have to find them & if you do your countenance will change. Like all my eternal companions you will have long blonde hair & Blue eyes.”

The chief of the Magi, “Girls you have been set another task by the Empress. Now it is up to you to find your companion if you do then you have permission to get married.”

All four of them, “Empress Will you make us proud to be your companions also.”

Gaby, “Yes you will become my companions immediately you return regardless of whether anybody else is waiting to become a companion or not.”

The four of them, “In that case we will take our leave & find the missing two.”

Gilda, “Those four are like homing pigeons & will find Mehitabel.”

Gaby, “Aunt they will have a hard time finding her.”

They started methodically searching every room & could not find her. “We are silly running around like headless chickens. We are Magi we must think like Magi. Mehitabel has hidden herself so she can see what is going on but cannot communicate. Mistress Mehitabel we your servants & friends seek you tell us where you are.”

Mehitabel, “Maddy keep quiet or they will find us in here.”

The four returned to Gaby, “Empress We tried every room but here & could not locate them. We think the two of them are located within this room.”

Gilda, “I told you they where good. They searched the great hall & looked puzzled.”

“Empress you can assure us they have not left this complex?”

Gaby, “I can assure you they are close by & Mehitabel said, to tell you that she is looking forward to having you as her companions.”

The four, “In that case there is one room left to check & we will all go together.” They vanished & at the same time Maddy & Mehitabel appeared.

Gaby, “They all have arrived.”

Mehitabel, “Where are the four bloodhounds now?”

Gaby, “They are rather annoyed you did not wait for them. They know you where both there.”

The Chief, “They will be stamping their feet in a minute because Mehitabel has moved rooms.”

Gaby turned to the Magi chief. “Apparently your daughters have decided to become mine. Sorry I can no longer stop the process as my waters have just broken when somebody stamped their feet in a paddy.”

The Magi chief, “It was preordained.”

Gaby groaned, as the contractions became quicker. Not long after she gave birth to four girls.

Maddy, “Gilda will you hold the fort for half an hour or so while we get these back to been teenagers. 18 minutes later they returned. “

Mehitabel, “Empress I think the four should still be given their prize.”

Gaby, “They are now my daughters & companions & like all my companions get to choose who they live with. Although Mehitabel I think that is a foregone conclusion.”

“Mother may we now claim Mehitabel as our bed mate?”

The Magi chief, “The prophecy is fulfilled. We will all work together for the greater good.”

The wedding started & Prior Moon got rather a big surprise when Peter walked down the aisle with the Bride. “Peter you’re her father then she has to be an angel & Gaby is having an angel as a companion.”

Gaby, “Actually I already have several angels as companions, Fairies, Dragons, Witches, Seraphs, Imps & Mermaids are among my companions.”

Prior Moon, “The dragon heart was supposed to be returned to the golden dragon & it would enhance her power a thousand fold.”

Gaby, “That was a little exaggerated but it has increased my power.”

Prior Moon, “You could only absorb the heart if you where the Golden Dragon.”

Gaby, “As Grandma has already told you that is one of my titles but if you wish proof then it can be arranged.”

“No, No, No please do not summons dragons.”

Gaby, “I will tell you what if I agree not to summon the dragons will you sleep until all hallows with Red & Yellow here & do all they tell you. They are both my companions & you will be doing my wishes.”

Prior Moon looked at both girls, “Well if you are instructing me then yes I could not have nicer companions.”

The wedding went ahead & Gaby had a new companion. Peter & most of the host returned but several decided to stay. “Father has given us all permission to choose for ourselves if we should stay here or return. If we stay do we still become companions?”

Lucy, “The next intake is at All Hallows & you will have a rather large contingent that time.”

“Lucy are you in charge down here or is Gabriel?”

“Gabriel deals with other things but I am in charge of the angels down here including you although as yet you are not a companion.”