(A short teaser to see if people wish to see this story.)

Linda and I were fighting again. I hated it when we fought. So I stalked off to my private place to be alone. Nobody ever used the old shed any more. most even forgot it was there. I didn't I used it when I needed time away from everyone. Only one who knew was Toby and he would never tell. He was my best friend after all. From the out side the shed looked like a old pile of wood. On the inside we had it fixed up real good, even had power from a extension cord from Toby's house. We had scrounged a old small refrigerator that we kept drinks in. Only me and Toby used the shed.

Who am I? I'm Josh Wells by name. I am your normal teenage (18) Kid. I am 5 foot 5 inches tall and 130lbs. I have gray eyes and black hair. Well normal except I can grow wings when I want and I can use magic. Well a little magic. Nobody but Linda and Toby know. Well back to the story.

I grabbed a soda and slipped into the old recliner for a little nap to cool off. I tried to sleep but my sister's words kept coming back to me. "Your going to flunk out if you don't stop playing with magic when you should be studying. I know You love the feeling but if you are not careful it is going to bite you!" That was her whole argument. She was scared of my magic. She loved my wings but was scared what will happen when people find out. I just didn't care right now about school, about anything. I was going through a crisis and no one seems to care. You see if I have my wings out too long other changes start to happen changes I can't stop. Changes in the way I think. Every time I use my wings for more than a few moments I start to get weird thoughts. Girl thoughts. I am just as much a boy as any other boy, so why is this happening? I think they are girl thoughts because they are about clothes or looks and stuff like that. Why me? When I have my wings out and somebody asks me a question I don't here Josh, no that would be too easy I hear Angelica. Lately I have heard that name when I didn't have my wings out. So it is getting worse. Lately I have found myself looking at girls differently. Not so much them but what they were wearing. I would think if their clothes fit or not or if the colors fitted them. I think I am going crazy. I would think I was gay but I have no feeling for boys. I still love my girlfriend Lana. I want to tell Lana about my wings and magic but I an not sure how she will take it. I am so confused.

As always when my thoughts come to a dead end I pull out the book on magic I got at that old book shop just outside of down town. It is said to be a beginners book to magic. But it is just a bunch of stories. I have tried to figure out what each story means but have had very little luck. Today though the stories were just gibberish. I need someone to teach me. Someone who actually practices this stuff. But were will I find someone like that? When sleep won't come and the book don't work there is only one thing to do! Magic! I moved everything from the center of the room and set a rock there. The rock was a ordinary fist size rock. I put all my will into changing the rocks shape. I tried for a Dragon. I got the body right and the legs. I was just starting on the wings when Toby came strolling in. His stomping disturbed my concentration and I flubbed the wings badly. I stopped and looked at my wannabe dragon and through it on the scrap heap. If I had my wings out it would work better. The magic flowed so much better with my wings out. That's a new thought I had never had that one before. I have no evidence that it was a true thought either. This is scaring me. I decided to play cards with Toby instead.

We Played cards for an hour. Then I asked him to be still while I try the Dragon again. He said sure after he got a soda. I looked through the rocks I had there for just the right one. When I found one that felt different I decided to use it. I tried something different this time. The rock had a large streak of crystal running through it I tried to separate the crystal from the rock. It took a lot of will and magic to do this. I was sweating when I finished. I looked at how much crystal I had and figured I did not have enough to make anything nice so I looked through the rocks for ones with crystal in them. I did not find any so decided to make some rings. It took me a lot of time but I had four rings. two men's and two women's. I smiled then went over to the recliner and slid into it. I was out as soon as I closed my eyes.

I woke up with someone poking me. I opened my eyes and there was Lana. What was she doing here she had never came here before. She said "Wake up you fool. What have you done! Damn this is bad." She looked at my confused look and said "You don't know do you? That is even worse! Get up we have to get out of here now." I had no idea what she was talking about. "Come get up they are almost here we have to go!" I got up and she grabbed the rings I made "Okay let's go. My house will do for now. They wont go there." We were running through the streets. Then there was three men in front of us, I looked back two behind we were trapped. I grew my wings and grabbed Lana and took to the air. The buggers behind us were yelling obscene things at us. I flew as far as I could before landing near Lana's house. She had to practically carry me inside. I was changing I could feel it but I was too out of it to care. She put me down on a bed and I wrapped myself in my wings and was out!

I woke slowly with a lot of pain. A voice said "Move slowly it will hurt for a wile. Metamorphoses is never easy and when forced it gets much worse." I turned my head and Lana's Mom was sitting in a chair looking at me. "Welcome back. Things are going to get hard on you for a while. They don't like wild mages here. That's what they call anyone who doesn't go to their magic school. The trackers try to catch or kill any they find. You were very lucky that Lana heard your making and followed the sound and that she got there first."

I said "What happened to me?" My voice was soft and high. Just like a young girls.

She looked at me "The stress of last nights chase caused you to change into your other self. In this case your other self happened to be a winged girl." She smiled and got up and poured me a glass of water. After handing it to me she went on. "We all have a other self. The ones that lurk in our Dreams and whims. Some do not even know there other selves. Your ability to use magic allowed, under stress, you to become your other self. And that saved your life. Who knows about your magic?"

I answered "Only Toby and my sister Linda. Will this change be permanent?"

She shook her head "I don't know. Your wings are nice but can you pull them in or something?" I got up and tried to pull them in and managed after a lot of trying. I was very tired from tying.

Just then Lana came in. "Well we can not call you Josh now. What do you want to be called?" She smiled and turned me to a full length mirror to get a look.

I said "Angelica, that will do very well." She smiled very brightly.

Lana said "I guessed you told Toby and Linda. I am hurt that you did not tell me. Well they are in the sitting room. I am going to make some tea for us, see you in a bit." She walked out. I was still looking at myself. Lana's mom turned me from the mirror.

"Lets get you ready for your guests." She put in. "Cant go around in a backless nightgown all day." She helped me get dressed in a simple blue dress. She put some flats on my feet. "I am glad your feet and Lana's are the same size." She had me sit. then brushed out my now waist length hair. She put my hair in a high ponytail. "I don't think any make up is needed but I will let Lana show you how to put on." She walked to the door "Well are you coming, Angelica?" I got up and tried my best to walk like a girl to the door. "We will work on that." She showed me to the sitting room.

As I entered I noticed that Lana was already there and she must of said something because my sister said "I always said that magic was going to bite you in the end." I was not going to respond to that. She was right.

Toby said "Wow Dude you look really hot!" That was him all the way. I blushed all the way from my hair to toes. I was trying to think of something to say when Lana's Mom beat me to it.

She said "Well now that we are all here we can talk about what to do about this trouble. Oh and call me Julie all right. What we have is a Wild Mage in need of training and three friends that are in danger because of it. So here are your options.

1. Let the seekers catch you and hope they don't kill you.

2. Leave the city for training then play by the rules.

3. Take your chances.

That is what your choices are right now choose." She was looking at me the whole time she was talking. Looks like things are up to me.

I said "Where would I go? I don't know anyone who could teach me. I am new to all this. Do you know anyone that could help me? School is over for the summer so don't have to worry about that. Please tell me." She smiled at me and poured her and me some tea.

She took a sip then responded "I know a woman who could help you. She lives out in the country on a ranch. I think she would take the four of you in for the summer. Yes Lana you too. They have seen you so you must go. Her name is Helena Drake. She owns the Siler Rose Ranch. She can teach you and Lana what you need to know. I am sure she can find something useful for Linda and Toby to learn. I will call her in a little bit. We will put you on a train in an hour. Lana Angelica is the same size as you now so why don't you quickly pack two bags for the train. Linda I think I have some things that will fit you. Sorry Toby your out of luck here maybe there." we broke up for a quick packing job. Soon we were all back in the sitting room waiting for Julie to make the call. Linda was on her cell phone telling our parents that she got me and her a job out in the country for the summer but we had to leave right away. They were just glad I had a job. She hung up.

Linda said "We are good. You know I might just like having a sister." I knew she was teasing but all this got to me and I started crying. She put her arms around me and comforted me for a bit. It did help to let it out. I calmed down and Lana showed me to the powder room so I could wash my face. After that she put a little make up on me and we went back to the sitting room.

Julie came in with a bag. She said I did some checking the know you came here so I have to go as well for awhile. We will take the car and leave right now. Lets move it." We all piled into a big land rover. I got front seat, we pulled out and I caught sight of the guys that chased us before heading for the house. There was an explosion that rocked the vehicle. I looked back the house was half gone and on fire. I looked at Julie. She sighed "I needed a new place anyways. One thing you will find in this life, Don't depend on material things. They go real fast. Well off we go."

It took us an hour to get out of town and we were watching for the seekers the whole time. My wings were itching to come out. I must be a response to stress. With me the Flight response was literal. I could not relax till we were out of town and on the highway. I closed my eyes to the wide open skies that called to me. I could not indulge myself and put my friends in any more danger. Look at me thinking about someone besides myself. Oh I must be growing up. I looked in the back seat and the three were asleep. The itching was keeping me from doing so myself.

Julie said "Why don't you try to get some sleep. It will be at least 3 hours till we hit the fist rest stop." She smiled at me.

I said "I wish I could my wings are itching to come out and those open skies are calling to me. My wings don't like to be kept in anymore." I tried to smile back at her. "I can drive if you want just tell me where."

She chuckled "No thanks I'm fine for awhile Driving keeps me from thinking about the house and all." Those Seekers have drove off or killed every independent mage in town. I was pretty much the last one. Lana don't count she has not passed the third level yet so is not considered a full mage yet. She is still a apprentice mage. She will be that till she passes level 5. She does show promise though."

"Thanks Mom" Came floating from the back seat. Lana sounded very sleepy. I looked back at her and smiled. over her shoulder I could see a Black SUV coming on fast. Something in me said that thing was bad and I need to get away from it.

"I said "Julie we got a tail coming up on us fast. I'll bet my wings their Seekers." That woke everyone up. I kept watch on the SUV and it fell in right behind us. I could see in the windshield and sure as the SUV was black there were Seekers in it. "I can see in their SUV it's them all right." Julie hit the gas and the Beast we were riding in lumbered forward a little faster. I looked at the front wheel on there drivers side I could just see it. I concentrated let out a thin stream of magic just so it did not focus till after it was outside the Beast. I hit the tire just right and it blew out. They went swerving off the road.

Lana looked at me "You did that with magic. You have more control than I thought."

Julie said "We are not out of this yet. Two more coming on fast. Can you do that again?"

I shrugged "I can try. Could you three scrunch down so I have a better line of sight." Well here goes nothing. I could not get a shot at the tires of #1 car But #2 moved so I could see the tires and I tried the rear tire. Big blow out. They swerved into #1 but only through them off for a moment. But enough to expose the tire and bang it went. Three up three down. I was totally drained. I had no more in me for now.

Julie asked "Are you ok? You look wiped out." She kept glancing at me then back at the road. "I don't know why they are chasing us, we are out of their territory?"

I gasped "I am wiped out. I have no more magic for now. At least my wings are not itching any more. I'm going to try and sleep now."

Julie said "you all should try to sleep we will be driving all night." That's was all I knew for awhile. Sleep took me strong and deep. If I dreamed I don't remember it. When I woke it was morning and we were pulling into a truck stop. "Gas and bathroom stop. We will grab something we can eat on the road. I want to be out of here in less than a half hour." I going to wipe my eyes but Lana stopped me.

She said "You will mess up your make up and we don't have time to fix it if we want to eat." She took my hand and dragged me into the ladies room. she pushed me to a stall. Go already then we will see about your make up." I could hear her take the next stall I pulled up my dress and down my panties and sat. This was different than peeing as a boy. it felt weird. I know girls wipe so I did and got everything straight and came out of the stall. Lana and Linda were waiting for me. They looked at my face then made a few changes to my make up and off we went to find food. Toby and Julie were waiting to go get food. we hit the convenience store and then filled the Beast up. We were back on the road in just under a half hour. We munched and talked all the way. I kept a eye out for Seekers and the other on the food. My magic was slowly returning so I was happy. I was still a bit tired so almost missed the feeling in my wings. I moved and the feeling moved to the other wing still pointing the way we came.

I said "I think the seekers are tracking us some how. Their back at the truck stop." The second I said it I knew it was true. """I can feel it in my wings. I know it sounds crazy but I can feel them coming they are still far away but they are coming."

Julie said "My you are useful. We are close now I can call in reinforcements." She took out a cell phone and hit a number. "Yes it is me. We are close. They are tracking us some how. The old road in ten. We will be there." She hung up. she glanced at me. "You keep watching that feeling of yours. I want to know if they get closer. Everyone hold on the old road is not good." She suddenly took a off ramp and a sharp turn."

I concentrated "You confounded one of them but the other two are following. They are defiantly tracking us some how. We need to change vehicles some how to find out if it is the Beast or us they are tracking."

Julie said "I am ahead of you a new car will be waiting for us at the old road and a driver to take the Beast and drive on. I they follow us we know it was not the Beast they were tracking." we rode on in silence for a few moments then she said "There he is get ready to pile out." We slid up to the old van and plied out a guy jumped into the Beast and roared off. We got in the van and headed down a side road. "Well? Are they following?" I waited till I was sure.

I said "They are following the Beast. One, two and three all are following the Beast. Time to go to ground so they don't find us. I hope this Ranch is out of the way."

Julie and our driver laughed. "We have an hour left so catch as much sleep as you can." The driver put in. Everyone but me got some sleep I just could not stop thinking. When we pulled into the ranch I could see why they laughed. It was hidden in a box canyon down a long river path. No one who wasn't looking for it would even see the path in the first place. The sky still called to me but I did not want to fly off right now.

We piled out and looked at the rambling ranch house. what caught my attention was the woman standing on the porch watching us. She was by no means happy. As we moved towards the house she stepped forward and said "Well Juliet do you bring trouble to my door? The same door you swore never to return to! Well what have you to say for yourself?"

Julie said "Hello Mother how have you been? The Seekers are chasing us outside their territory and we don't know why. I was a kid when I swore that. Are you going to turn us away Mother?" They stared at each other for a few moments.

Mother said "Well you might as well stay. What is so special about this group anyways?"

Julie grinned "Show her what makes you special, Angelica." So I took a deep breath and let it out at the same time as letting my wings out fully. It felt wonderful. I sighed with relief. The older ladies eyes grew quite large. Julie put in "She is a wild mage as well. from what I seen her do level 4 at least." Another woman came out of the house

She said "Are you giving my guest trouble Joann? I am Helena Drake I own the Silver Rose Ranch. Come in and have some iced tea with me. We will talk about what you have come here to learn Angelica and Lana. Angelica will you stop showing off your looks for the boys and come inside." I blushed and folded my wings then with a sigh and a lot of effort I pulled them in. Then I followed the others inside.

We sat in the sitting room and had iced tea. The rift between Julie and her Mother was plain to see. After a bit a man came in and nodded. Then Helena asked "What do you want to get out of your time here Angelica? How about you Lana?"

I looked at Lana an she smiled. "I was told I need to learn the rules of magic in this world. Other than that I would just like to learn more magic." Short and to the point.

Lana Said "I would like to learn all I can in the areas of control and use of magic." I smiled at her. She smiled back.

Helena said "And what do you offer in payment?"

I said "I will work at whatever you say as long as I can learn too for the summer."

Lana smiled "That goes for me too."

Helena looked at us for a long time then got up and left the room. She was back quickly she dropped a bag in each of our laps. Inside was a pleated skirt and white blouse and tie. She said "You will were this when working. You will be given three sets, One to wear, one to wash, and one for oops. You will work all morning and learn all after noon. You will not speak unless you are asking for clarification or answering a question. Do you understand?"

We both said "Yes Miss Drake" That must have been the right way to answer because she smiled.

She clapped her hands a young girl in a maids dress came in. She cocked her head waiting for orders.

Helena said "Ah Lyn show these two to the guest bathroom so they can change. The shoes you have on are fine. Be quick about it." We got up and followed the girl to a side room. Once in the bathroom I turned my back to Lana and the mirror and tried to get at the dresses zipper. After a moment Lana pushed my hands out of the way and unzipped my dress. I took it off and picked up the blouse.

Lana said "Turn around." When I did she smiled and looked me over. I started to cover up but she stopped me. Took one more look then helped me to dress. After I was dressed she quickly changed. We looked each other over then we opened the door and Lyn was still there to lead us back. We had folded and put our clothes in the bags be fore leaving the bathroom.

When we got back we stood for inspection. Helena walked around each of us noting any little changes that needed to be made. I was so nervous that my wings popped right out through the folds in the cloth. it almost seemed to be designed that way. She looked at me "Hold your left wing out for inspection, good now your right." I did as I was told and my nerves went down. Soon she said to sit. an we did. My wings were still out. Lana took my hand an something strange happened My wings twitched an Lana grew some wings. All my energy went away and I passed out.

I woke slowly someone was cuddled up to me. I know that form. Lana was cuddled up to me. I had dreams like this of course I was not a winged girl in them. She woke when I started to move. She smiled and kissed me. Then she giggled and said "I have never kissed a girl before. I guess I will have to get used to it now. I love you Angelica.

I felt such a rush. I smiled and said "I love you Lana with all my heart." I noticed she still had wings. It was strange but right some how. We got up a little while later after some more kissing. We would have stayed in bed but our tummy's were rumbling. As soon as we opened the door Lyn was sitting in a chair she stood and waved us to follow. We were brought to a study. Lyn knocked and then entered. Julie and Helena were inside. They looked up when we cam in. Lyn curtsied and left. I noted that we were holding hands When did Lana take my hand or did I take hers? Oh well it was nice anyways.

Helena said "We got trouble" I felt the tingle in my wings.

I said "Seekers 5 miles out moving slowly. Coming this way for certain. More than before." After a moments concentration I said "5 no 6 ground vehicles one in the air."

Helena sighed "You can't stay here. we can't defend before so many seekers. I know where you could be safe but you two will have to leave tonight and alone. Just the two of you can make this journey. I'm afraid I need you two to go." She must of heard my stomach growl "Well we will give you a meal and provisions for the trip." She smiled and pointed to a table and "Sit you two we have a lot to talk about." Lyn brought in a meal and we ate while we talked. as soon as the meal was laid Lyn left and Helena went on. "Up in the hills there is a old tribal sight This time of year the old shaman take up residents for a few weeks. She is the one you need to find. She will be the best to hide you and teach you. Her name is Catherine Two Hawks. I know weird name." She handed me a map. "This should get you there. That's the only copy so don't loose it. Here is a compass don't loose that either. Hope you get there quickly." We had finished the meal and was getting ready to go. Off was the nice clothes on went the sturdy clothes. We were given packs we wore on our fronts and off into the night we went. Taking to the air as soon as we could. I had to show Lana how to fly.

We flew till we seen the first landmark then turned and flew farther into the darkness. I was waiting for the boom that meant the Ranch went the way of the house. It did not come. We flew till first light. Then we took cover to rest. after a three hour rest we walked a few hours. After a light meal we walked some more. We went on this way till dark. then we took to the sky. The seekers had made it ton the ranch and left it. We hoped the others were all right. We kept going as we could. on the third day the feeling of the seekers was gone. I found that the map had led us in a circle. We came back to the Ranch. There was signs of a fight. Old signs this happened the first night we were gone. We came up to the house. I was whole looking. There was no seekers in the area so we searched for our friends. There was no bodies so that was good. The door was gone and things were broken and spread around.

As we were looking around Lyn came in with a shotgun. Such a small girl with such a large gun. She smiled and waved us to follow. we did we went behind the house to the hills. There were sentries along the hills. we were watched but not stopped. soon we were in a camp. We were led to our friends. Helena smiled and said "So you followed the map like I told you. good they were here after you left we retreated to the hills but I wanted you in the wind till we could be sure it was not you they were following." It wasn't. I counted heads and one was missing.

I said "Where is Toby?" Julie took my hands and looked into my eyes.

She said "He was the reason they kept finding us. They made him swallow a tracker then set him to go with us. He ran off when the shooting started. We found him yesterday he had fell in the dark and broke his neck. It killed him. He is buried where he fell. We have scanned everyone else and no one else has a tracker in them." I broke down and cried. My best friend betrayed me and now is dead. I can't take this. I just cried and cried.

Next thing I knew I was waking up in a bed with Lana holding me. I looked at the day date clock and it was the day we left to run. Was the whole last three days a Dream? I opened the door and Lyn was sitting there. I said "I need to see Helena now!" Lana got up and gave me that What's the matter look. I followed Lyn to the study she knocked then entered. Helena looked up. "Do you have the ability to scan for tracking devices?" She nodded. "Get ready to do that. I looked at Lyn "Ask Toby to step in here please." She looked at Helena who nodded and Lyn went out.

Helena looked at me "Are you going to tell me why?"

I said "Hopefully a bad dream. If not I know how they have been tracking us." She opened a drawer and pulled out a hand held device. Lyn came back and Toby was with her.

Toby said "What's up?"

I said "Stand still Toby. Ok scan him." Helena did just that and found a signal right away.
"Damn it Tony, I was hoping it was just a dream. Why did you do it! Your leading them right to us. These hills are masking the signal a bit that is all the reason they are not here now!" I turned to Helena "Can you do anything about the signal?" She shook her head. "Damn it! what now?"

She sighed "He will have to leave. Some of my people will take him out to the main road then run for the border. That will give you and my people to do something else." She made a call and it was done. I shook my head as they took him away.

I said "How long dose that give us till they find out and backtrack?"

She said "Not long. We need a knew plan. You said it was a bad dream was that literal?"
I nodded "Well tell me what we did in the dream I see what we can do with that." I told her the dream. "Catherine Two Hawks, I have not thought of her for years. Yes she would be the one I would send you to but I wont be sending you two alone this time. Linda Julie and two of my tracker will go with you to make the trail disappear." So we worked out the details and then had a meal.

We decided to leave at first light. When alone I said something I really liked to hear. I said "Lana I love you with all my heart."

She said "Angelica, I love you too. I never kissed a girl before but here goes!" Then she and I kissed for a few moments or ten. It was very good if strange. We finally broke apart and tried to get some sleep.

I woke up just before the alarm and Lana was snuggled up to me and it was nice except she was on my wing. So I woke her with a kiss and a "roll over" she smiled and did. ouch. I got up and stretched as the room allowed. She followed suit and soon we were both getting ready. We just turned off the alarm and opened the main door when Julie walked up. I said "We have time to eat before we go?"

Julie said "Angelica you and my daughter behave yourselves last night? Yes there will be time to eat." we all giggled. Where did that come from being a girl is changing me more and more. At least Lana loves me! We walked into the dining hall and sat down.

Linda came in with Helena talking away. When they sat two lanky women came in looking our group over. Helena said "Ladies this is your guides for this trip, Sarina and Stella Marks. For your Information the world may have a problem with Same Sex marriage. Here we do not. The Marks were wed here, what was it two years ago?" They nodded. "So you see we are very progressive here. No hang ups about such things. Well lets get to eating I want you six on your way soon. The Marks joined the table then we chowed down. We were out the door 45 minuets later.

The next 4 days was a exercise in pushing ourselves to the limit. We ate little and walked a lot. we pushed as hard as we could push and the Marks still wanted more. Our rests were short and spaced out. I was a bit strung out when we got there. We all were.

Here was a large stone circle in the middle of nowhere. It was so 20 feet across and defiantly was man made. We set up a minimal camp a little ways away. I was watching an a great bear lumbered out of the woods and crossed to the circle. The bear put it's paws up on the circle and seemed to pray. There came a shimmering around the bear. when the shimmer dissipated a old woman was there. She looked around and caught sight of us and walked over.

Stella greeted her "Grate Mother Bear it is good to see you again. We come to see Two Hawks is she about." Always be polite to a bear no mater the form. "We come from Helena Drake."

Pray to the circle you may see her, she passed on last season. Her Daughter runs the forest now. Silent cat she goes by. She will be here tonight the full moon will bless the hopeful tonight." She looked at me then at Lana "You two are young to walk the skies. Who taught you young ones?"

Lana answered "My Mother teaches me Great one. Angelica is a wild mage. Our love gave me these wings. I just wish my magic was as strong as hers."

The old Woman looked at Lana and said "Tonight when the moon shows her bright face go to the circle ask the Great Mother to help you. If she is willing your prayers will be answered. I must be going now bingo night in grange hall in Far Away. must get there fast for a good seat." I shook my head and went back to watching the circle.

The Hopeful began to arrive just before sundown. The came in ones and twos and sometimes a family of three. They were all types but mostly they looked down or lost. A middle aged woman strode to the edge of the circle and spoke "Those that wish The great Mothers blessing come to then edge of the circle." Lana grabbed my hand and pulled me up to the circle with her. I looked over and there was Linda and Julie as well. "When I touch you. you will walk across the circle if the Great Mother thinks well of it you will be answered. I was the sixth one to walk across the circle Lana at my side. I felt my wings flutter just a bit and suddenly I was elsewhere.

I was standing on a stone circle but this one was smooth and I could not see beyond the edge. Lana was still holding my hand. and a woman was standing before us. She smiled "My children Both come before me with a wish in your heart not for yourself but for the other. I shall grant you your wishes in time but first I must know your love is true. So I will set a task for each of you if you can complete the tasks I will know your love is true.

Josh I set the task of giving into and becoming Angelica Heart and soul. Can you do this?"

I smiled "My name is Angelica Rose Wells I always have been and always will be."

she said "Lana can you let yourself lead someone you love into danger?"

Lana said "I led my love away from one danger into a bigger danger so the answer is yes."

The Woman smiled "Then go back my children your wishes await you."

Then We were at the other side of the circle. I felt better than I had ever before. I stepped down and helped Lana down. I was so in love. Then I felt it Helicopters and they were searching these hills. Damn it! I turned to Lana "I have to go, your flying is not up to this. Get the others and get away. I will find you! Count on that my love." Before She could stop me I was in the air. I was angry that they will not let us alone. They made one mistake they pissed me off!

They sighted me and the chase was on. I was flying my best and at three to one the odds were not good. For them maybe I was fine! I found a gravel pit an turned. Time to go down buggers. Three shots three strikes Three down you out. Hit them in the gearbox and down they go! I turned and flew back to the circle to find it being attacked by Seekers and their flunkies. Damn it 3 to 1 I can take but 20 to1 no way. I caught sight of Lana she was still there. Odds just changed they are going after my love their mistake! The battle of the circle was legendary! I wish I could recall what happened? I just know we won and I took a hit to the head and went down late in the fight. I woke up in a motel room in Far Away. I felt like I was hit with a dozen baseball bats. Lana was there and it could be seen that she had been crying. I squeezed her hand and she tuned to me "You fool, you great fool you. Don't you do that to me again!" She was gently hugging me. I felt like I had went through a meat grinder on slow maul. I found out that I had been out for 4 days. No wonder I was so hungry.

The door opened and in walked Silent Cat and a woman I did not know. Julie slowly pulled Lana off me saying "Let the healer get at her." the woman moved in and started to look me over.

After awhile she looked me in the eye and said "You will live. You will hurt for a few weeks but you will live. Skintight shields have the defect of letting kinetic energy get through. So you Bruise like a dickens but don't die. Just take it easy for a bit and you will heal." She got up and left.

Silent Cat said "I hear your looking for a teacher well you have one. I'll give you one week then meet me at the circle and we will begin. Rest while you can." She smiled and nodded to Julie and Lana and left.

Julie asked "Skintight shield who taught you that one? Let me guess more wild magic. You are going to give me gray hairs even before the wedding. I guess I just going to get used to it. Maybe I would look good gray haired."

Lana said "Mom would you give us a few moments alone. You too Linda I see you sulking back there. Both of you out please!" they both looked at each other then left. "Good now that we are alone I have a very important question to ask you. Angelica Rose Wells will you do me the honor of being my mate for life. Will you marry me?"

I smiled "YES! I will love to marry you. "

Inside Seeker Headquarters A meeting is being held.

Head Seeker "We have to find the winged kids before they can find the truth! The Pact is in danger. Bring me those kids."

Seer "I have given your men all the information I have and there has been sightings. We have found and caught 10 winged kids so far. Just the ones that left the territory have yet to be caught. There seems to be two in that group.

Head Seeker "Those must be the ones. Get Them you fool!"

Seer "Master we have lost 15 seekers and a number of flunkies chasing those two. My sight gets fuzzy beyond our borders I can only give hints for the seekers to look for. Of late there has been none. Maybe the danger has passed.

Head Seeker "Maybe but those two are going to pay for all my seekers that have been lost! Send out the Dogs I want their heads!

Seer "Yes Master. "

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In the forest a very tired Angelica and Lana stand by the Stone circle.

Lana said "I do feel different than before we crossed this circle but I can't say how. All I do know is my magic is coming to me very almost eagerly now."

I smiled "I know what you mean it is like the floodgates have been opened and magic is free to flow. Now we just need to control it."

Silent Cat came striding up to them "You both have done well today. You have the magic. We will work on control and uses tomorrow. By the end of the week you will be ready to meet and beat any comers. Angelica you have the focus you need to work on not overdoing things. Hit with only enough magic to do the job. That and learn the spells. Lana you need to be confident any stand up to challenges. You both will take your level 5 test at the end of the week be ready. You are done for the day. Rest well you two.

On the other side of the clearing Linda and Julie wait.

Linda shook her head "I can't get it out of my mind! The Dream was so real I was padding through the forest but I wasn't me but a Big Cat, a Puma. I was so at home, It was my forest. I lived to hunt there and to protect those that traveled in my forest. I have had dreams like this every night since the Battle of the circle."

Julie smiled she liked the brash young woman she said "Maybe that is your other self. Like Josh became Angelica maybe you will when needed become the Puma of your dreams." She walked over "Maybe you already have. I was awake late last night an I caught sight of a puma wandering near the edge of the clearing. I did not think to check if you were in your tent. Silent Cat said we were safe if we camped near the circle. The puma was on the other side of the circle."

Linda looked out into the gathering evening and wondered. "Maybe my wish from the circle did come true after all? That would be Great. I felt so powerful in the dream."

Silent Cat came striding up "How are you two getting along? You look worried Linda what is wrong?

Linda said "I am a little worried seem the Dreams I have been having are coming true. I may be a Puma at night roaming the forest."

Cat looked at her "There is one way to find out. come with me." she turned and strode to the edge of the circle and Linda followed. "Touch the circle and ask the Great Mother to show you the truth." Silent Cat already knew the truth, she could smell it on her.

Linda said "I guess I do need to know." She knelt at the edge and laid her hands upon the stone. "Great Mother I humbly ask you to show me the truth of who I am." a mist gathered around her and things felt so strange Shifting some how. When the mist cleared a very large Golden Puma was where Linda had been. The Puma looked around then tried to look at herself. It was true Linda's other self was a large Golden Puma. Silent Cat smiled now if she can learn to control it. The mist appeared again and when it cleared Linda was back sitting on the ground. She said "I can't believe it. It's true my other self is a Puma. I have always loved cats now I know why. I am so happy I know myself at last."

Silent Cat said "It is a start. In time you wont need to dream or use the circle to change. You will also learn cat magic. A hunters magic. Welcome to the Pride Sister!" With that Silent Cat Shifted into a big Black Panther. walk up and brushed up to Linda in the Welcome of cats. In a moment there were two cats there and The Puma and The Panther went to hunt together bonding their friendship. Julie watched them go and wondered who her other self was? She looked at the circle then turned away. Not tonight, she needed to think on this. She went to her tent and got out the things for dinner. It was her turn to cook. She might not know who her other self was but this self was a Mom.

Angelica and Lana walked up to the tents to see Julie moving around making dinner. There was no sign of Linda but she mostly only showed up when the food was ready. Lana Said "Hi Mom, how was your day?" Both girls smiling.

Julie looked up "Not bad, oh by the way Angelica your sister is a cat.

Angelica was confused "What do you mean by that? I know she can be a little catty at times but that's no reason to call her a cat. I should tell her that you said that."

Julie smiled "What I meant was that her other self is a cat, a Golden Puma to be exact. She is very happy about it. She is out hunting with Silent Cat who is a Black Panther. Wash up dinner is almost ready."

Angelica said the only thing she could think of "Oh, that's what you meant. I am happy she found her other self." Then she went to wash up. She was still a little stunned. I wonder who Julies other self is?

After dinner they sat around talking about their days and generally relaxing. When up walked Helena and Joann looking kind of grim. Helena said "Bad news through the grapevine I heard the Seekers are getting serious they have let loose the Pack. They are the enforcers of the Seekers. They are real bad news. Where is Linda she should hear this to?"

Just then a very load purr came from the forest and a large Golden Puma came up to Angelica and laid down and put her head in Angelica's lap. Julie smiled and said "I think she did. I am glad you are back from your hunt Linda." Helena's eye brow went up in question. A mist covered the Puma for a moment and then cleared and there was Linda where the Puma had been.

Linda yawned and said the hunt went well no baddies in the area. Yes, I did hear what you said Helena and my Puma side is ready for a fight. But right now I could use a nap."

Helena said I would like to hear how that happened but first The Pack move slow but never have they failed t do what they were sent to do. There are six of them and they always fight together. They also fight dirty. No one know where they come from but they are bad news! Now will someone tell me what happened to turn Linda into a Cat?"
So Julie and Linda filled the rest in on what has been happening.

Julie said "All seem to start at the circle. We each went across the circle and were changed some how. I have not tried to find out how I was changed but then I might not want to know. I do feel changed though. What brings you out here Mother I thought you never leave the Ranch these days?"

Joann said "Well I thought you should know Terrance is back in town. He knows you are around and wants to see you."

Julie said "That slim lost that right when he left me. I was three months pregnant and he takes off for a surfing vacation with all our money. The jerk did not even know how to surf. I have had to raise Lana by myself ever since. No letters, no cards, no calls, no bloody anything. No, Mother I will not see him. Did he even ask about Lana?"

Joann shook her head "I told him you would say this. I don't blame you. But I did say I would at least pass on that he is here. Now my job is done and I can go back to worrying about you and Lana."

Lana smiled "Don't worry Grandmother I am stronger than ever and with my love at my side nothing can stand in our way! You will be at the wedding wont you? It will just be a small one right over there on the stone circle on the next full moon." Everyone turned to Lana and babbled all kinds of questions and comments that were answered all in turn. It was a strange evening.

In the morning It was Angelica's turn to cook. It was one skill she did not have. The oatmeal had hard lumps in it and nobody went back for seconds. She and Lana went off to train and Linda went off to try and change with out the circle. Helena and Joann headed back to the Ranch. That left Julie to clean up.

After cleaning up Julie went to the circle and knelt down at the edge. She had made up her mind she need to know how she had changed. She placed her ands on the circle and asked "Great Mother will you show me my other self?" Then she was somewhere else and she was not alone. A pretty woman was there.

The woman spoke "You wish to know your other self? Why do you wish this?"

Julie said "My Daughter and her friends are in danger! I need to know how I can help them. I was changed when I crossed the circle and I don't know how. Please will you tell me? I need to protect them!"

The woman spoke "You have in you what you need to protect them. For only the Strength and Love of a Mother can do what is needed. Your other self is strong in magic but only a different type of magic. Your other self is a Healer. When it is needed you will know how to change. Just be at ease you are doing what is needed for now." the woman smiled and Julie was back kneeling at the edge of the circle. She got up and went to do some training of her own.

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In the town of Far Away

Terrence Walker was getting drunk. He had tried to stay away from the bottle but it had him again. Julie would not see him. His Daughter would not see him. What did he have to live for? The Job that is what! He put down the glass and smiled. This was a job he was good at. When he was not drunk. He through a few bucks on the bar and got up ready to follow the where this job would take him. The job was to find a pair of kids, kids with wings.

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Angelica was focusing with all her will to tip an egg down a ramp without breaking it. This was to teach her to be subtle in her use of magic. So far she had broke three eggs. it was not a easy task. She had to focus. Lana blew in her ear. She broke the egg.

Lana said "Lunch time. Oops did I disturb you? You can try again after lunch." Angelica pouted all the way through lunch. The two tried to keep things light and Silent Cat did not mind. It was nice to be around a young couple in love. Reminded her of when she was young.

Silent Cat said "It is time we started combat drills. Using spells in combat is much harder than when you have the time. I will tech you a freeze spell then you will try to freeze me. I will be moving so it will not be easy. I will let you have three shots then I will shoot back so you better hit me first. remember being frozen by spell is not fun so hit me first.

3 hours later I was trying to get the feeling back into my legs. I had not hit her once she had hit me 4 times. Lana did worse she was hit 6 times once by her own spell. She was running trying to cast and fell into the spell. Except for the time we spent frozen it was a learning time. When we were frozen just plain sucked. An hour of magic storing then a hour of cool down and we were done for the day. I was quite tired and I was sure Lana was too so we took a short nap before I tried to make dinner. I crawled out of the tent and looked around. It was dark and only Julie was up sitting by the fire. I sniffed, I smelled stew. I followed my nose to the pot sitting on the edge of the fire keeping warm. I looked at the pot. Then looked at Julie.

Julie said "Go ahead I saved some for you and Lana. You two were just too cute all cuddled together to wake so I went ahead and made dinner." Lana came out of the tent sniffing when I lifted the lid to the pot.

I filled a bowl for both of us and said "Thank you today was a extra hard day of training."

Julie just smiled and nodded "You two get to clean up." She pointed to a pile of dishes. Oh well it was a good stew.

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On the outskirts of Far Away

Terrence had been following leads all day. all seem to clam up when he mentions kids with wings. All he was able to find out was something happened the last full moon at the old stone circle in the hills. When pushed the people clam up. I guess after some sleep I'll check out the circle. Hmm maybe a little company for the night would cheer me up.

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Biter leader of the Pack sat back on bed in the motel while he thought of the newest Job to come from the Head. Find and Kill two kids with wings. Kids huh Girls huh well maybe he will let the Pack have some fun before he kills them. The Head did not say not to. Hmmm some fun. The snich said Far Away is where to start. They will be there tomorrow. Then the Fun begins!

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The morning was Bright and the breakfast good. (It was Lana's turn to cook) Silent Cat was sitting with them telling of some stranger asking around about two kids with wings. That got everyone listening. She said "I think he is coming up to check out the circle today. His name as I heard it is Walker, Terrence Walker." She stopped when Julie went white. "Are you ok Julie?"

Julie said weakly "Did you say Terrence Walker?" When Cat nodded. "What is that slime ball doing now? I'll kill him. I'll just Kill him! I said I did not want to see him!"

While Julie stormed Lana said "That is my father's name. Looks like we are going to meet after all. I think I will meet him without the wings though." She stood and withdrew her wings. "That feels weird. Love will you meet my father with me?" I stood and withdrew my wings and took her hand.

I said "Will you watch over us Silent Cat and freeze him if he does anything stupid?"

Julie said "I have calmed down and will meet him with you two. I can handle this. We will wait by the stone circle. Linda Shifted and so did Cat. We headed out to face this crisis.

We did not have to wait long. He showed up a half hour later. He looked like your classic bad boy got old. He was maybe 6 foot and 220lbs with slightly balding blonde hair and red rimmed green eyes. In a physical fight he would win but I don't plan to fight that way. I caught sight of Linda waiting in the trees. I was sure Silent Cat was on the other side but I had not seen her. We were set when he walked up to us He spotted Julie right away. Then he looked over the two of us and decided that he looked the most Like Lana. When he moved I caught sight of a revolver in his jacket. Nasty things guns I did not like them at all.

When he was 10feet away Julie said "That's far enough. We can talk from here. I think you figured that this is your daughter. Her name is Lana. Next to her is her fiancé. Her name is Angelica. This is the first and the last time you will see them and me. so make your questions count."

He said "Forceful as always huh Juliet? Well I was not expecting this give me a moment." I could see his eyes scanning the trees. He was thinking of doing something stupid! I readied the freeze spell. The revolver was halfway out when I cast Dead center He stopped dead. I let go of Lana's hand and walked over to him and relieved him of the revolver. I held it out and Linda came out an took it away. I checked him for a backup and found one and three knives.

I kept the knives and held out the gun and Linda came for that one too. I returned to Lana's side and took her hand again. I knew the freeze spell when cast by me doesn't last long so we waited. Soon he finished his move with a empty hand. He said "So another Witch in the family huh. Nice trick by the way. Your fast. But I learned a little something over the years." He moved his hands in a fire arrow spell and it was pointed right at me. I smiled as the spell splattered on my shield becoming harmless. Just then Linda hit him in the legs and Silent Cat hit him high. The combo worked well he hit the ground winded and hurting. As I know it is very hard to cast when you are in great pain. I hit him with a spell I didn't know I knew a forget spell. He forgot The last twenty years. While he was out from the spell I hit him with another spell. A teleport spell He disappeared and I fainted. When I woke I looked up into my loves eyes and smiled.

I said "I think I overdid it a bit. I got to remember to not do two high level spells in a row without bracing myself first. The backlash is a pain.

Silent cat looked at me. She was in her human form. "What was the second spell, I know the first but not the second?"

I slowly sat up "Teleport. I sent him as far as I could away. California I think."

Linda said "Wont he try to come back for revenge?"

I said "That was the point of the first spell. A Forget spell he wont remember the last twenty years. I think twenty it might be more." Julie and Lana looked at each other and laughed. It was a good moment. "Can I get up now I used all my energy I need a power bar." That got more laughter. Cat helped me up.

She said quietly "We need to talk about this wild magic of yours! It is dangerous to use till we find out where it comes from."

I sighed "I think I know but it sounds crazy. I got this book of magic for beginners from a very old book shop. I read and read the stories in the book and I think they imprinted spells into me. Every time I come to need a spell that was in the book the story flits through my mind and there is the spell. I remember every spell I have used from the book but not the ones I have not used yet. Sounds crazy don't it?"

Silent Cat thought for a moment "Not if the book is a Grimmore a book of magic that has a sort of life of it's own. If it is one of those and has accepted you as its Mistress then it makes perfect sense. All we have to do is look at the book now." She smiled "Call for the Book."

I shrugged I put what's left of my magic in to the words "Come to me Book!" A moment then the book was in my hands.

She smiled "Open the book then ask to see the forget spell." I opened the book and did as she asked. The pages of the book turned themselves till I was at the forget spell and there it was not the story but the spell. This was far out. I asked for the teleport spell and the pages turned by themselves and there was the spell. I thought for a moment and asked for a Ice spell The pages turned and there was a story about an ice storm. So if I haven't used the spell yet it stays in story form. This was useful. Cat looked at me and said "Well did it work? Are the spells there?" I smiled and explained what I found out about the book. She smiled "Well you are sort of a wild mage just a educated one. I finally got my power bar.

I spent time till lunch reading the book. It was just after lunch when a gal came looking for Silent Cat. She was very upset. Seem a group of six bikers were tearing up Far away asking questions then breaking things and people if they did not get the answers they want. Silent Cat said "The Dogs are here." Now the question was do we wait for them to come to us or do we go to them either way the Battle was on! Why was everyone looking at me? I am not the leader here I'm just a kid? Now that I was Paying attention my wings were telling me the choice was made.

I looked at the others "Get ready they are at the bottom of the hill and coming up!" I let my wings out and my magic tripled. Lana fallowed suit. We will meet them in the trees on the other side of the circle. Trap and take out as we can don't fight alone pair up. So the forest battle began.

As soon as we got to the clearing I took to the air and Lana followed. I went up high as my enhanced sight would let me go and scanned for the Pack. they were not being subtle so found them easy I cast the Ice Storm on that part of the forest Then as they were trying to use their bikes to come up the hill I hit them with lightning Storm. Two direct hits took out one. They abandoned the bikes. The two storms kept them moving slow. A rifle shot went past me but a lightning bolt to the barrel stopped that one. Two down. Lana was taking pot shots with freeze spell but at this range it would be a miracle if she hit. Well such things do happen because I seen her hit one and the lightning got him, three down. then Cat and Linda used their combo on one guy vanishing into the woods before the other two could get a shot off. one in desperation or just plain anger shot at Lana and hit her wing and she went spiraling down. I peppered the spot the shot cam from with lightning and followed Lana down. we got down without further shots. Julie was at the point we landed. Lana was crying. That made me see red and the storms increased in strength. Julie Said I am a healer I will help her you go get those Dogs!

I took a baring from my wings and Said they made it to the clearing around the circle. I will fight them there. Take care of my love there are two left. the rest are out of the battle. Still be careful." I took off using the winds of the storm to pull me up. I landed by the circle two rather battered Dogs were in front of me. They held their hands close to their guns. it was like a old fashion shoot out. except I was using lightning! There was a few heartbeats that nobody moved then in a flash it was over. The two Dogs lay on the grass and I was still standing. I did find out one thing my shield wont stop a .357 magnum completely. I had a nice hole in my shoulder. I hurt like heck but I will live. Then Linda was there as I was about to go to my knees. She was back in human form.

She said "I got you little sister. Lean on me." She looked at Cat "We need a healer fast!"

Then Julie was there. She said "Lay her on the circle. I am a healer I will help her." I was not sure what happened after that. I went into the darkness for awhile. I was drained beyond what I could take. The darkness took me.

I was floating in nothingness. I knew I should not be here I had things to do. But here I was floating. Then I heard a voice "Come back to us. You are still needed. We love you come back." Then I felt a gentle pull and could feel pain. that way led to life and to pain. But also Love, Lana's face came to me. I knew I had to go back. I had to marry her. I had to be with her. I started to struggle to go back! To be with my love! Then it was like bursting out of a dream! I sat up covered with blood and sweat! I was back, I was alive and I was in a great amount of pain. I held onto that pain because it held me here! Here where my love is! I was softly pushed back down and found my head in Lana's lap. I looked up at her and smiled. I was back.

The next week was spent recovering from the wounds we got in the forest battle. It seemed almost no one was spared from the battles scares. Some of the Dogs survived the battle 4 did not. The ones who did live had their memories taken and they were sent away. I was not up to the forget spell but Silent Cat was. I copied it for her and she removed their memories. Things were Quiet for awhile so we recovered. Lana and I talked about what kind of wedding we wanted and we decided it didn't matter as long as we were wed. So we asked the others what they thought. The debate went on fore days.

The wound even though closed and healing affected my wing and I was not able to pull it in or fly for a week and then only a short flight. after that my moods improved. Lana's wounded wing was not as bad as mine but she still could not fly or pull it in. we were in the same boat. Linda took a graze on her thigh and Cat had a large bruise on her side. Julie seem to be the only one to take a wound in the battle. She I found out had the hardest part she had to pick up the pieces while hurting for everyone who was hurting. It seemed I came the closest to death and not from my wound but from pushing too far with my magic. I ran out of magic and drained my life force to the very edge. So I was restricted from using magic for a week. I took the time to reread my magic book several times.

I didn't like it. They knew where we were. We had two choices, Stand and fight or Run. Both choices sucked. I almost died and Lana got shot the last time we fought. But where is there to run to? There are Seekers everywhere. There has to be a way out of this? Give up my wings? No, I could never do that. I need advice.

After wandering around for awhile I found myself at the stone circle. I knelt at the edge and prayed to the Great Mother for advice. It was worth a shot. I really did not expect a answer. But once again I found myself in that other place.

The woman said "You are troubled child. What is it you ask of me?"

I said "I am at a crossroad in my life. I can't fight the Seekers without loosing someone I care for. Yet I can not run away forever. They always find me. I do not know what to do?"

She said "If you can not go left and if you can not go right, go back."

I said "I do not know what you mean there is no going back I can not travel in time. I love who I have become. To go back would be to undo that. I guess the only way out of this is to die." She stepped up to me and slapped my face hard.

She said "You are here for a reason I don't ever want to here you giving up again! I will lead you and your friends to a place where you will be safe for awhile at least. I will send a new watcher to protect my woods. Silent Cat must go with you. As always there will be a cost. The cost will be paid by you! You will find out the cost in the next few days. Now go back I have preparations to make." Then I was back. I stumbled up and wondered what just happened? My face still stung. I walked back to the camp. Everyone was looking at a man who stood to one side.

When he dropped to one knee and proclaimed "My Lady, I have been sent to see you and your ladies to a safe Haven. I was told the Darkness seeks to put out your Light. I and my men will see you safely to Haven. Where I am sure your status will be recognized by all. As a Knight of Haven it is my Duty to see you safely there. My name is Sir Wilson, Captain of the first troop of Haven."

I said "Rise Sir Wilson, We will be ready to move out in an hour. You will return then. Have your men ready at that time."

He saluted "Of course My Lady. I will return at the appointed time. Till then Farewell." He strode off towards the hills." Everyone was staring at me again. I was getting used to it. I shook my head and turned to my tent and packing. It did not take long. the others shrugged and did the same with their tents. We finished a quarter hour early. So the girls turned on me.

Silent Cat Said "I will be returning to my home. It has been fun to train you all."

I said "Sorry, you need to come along with us. Orders from the Great Mother. I am not sure how she set this up so fast. I just talked to her an hour ago. I asked for help and this is what we get. No, I do not know what status he was talking about. All she said was she was going to send someone to lead us to a place of safety for a while. She did say I would be the one to pay the cost and I would find out what it is in a few days."

Lana said "You do get in some fixes. But you do have big friends. What's next My Lady?"

I said "We move out But first I think I'll have Julie look me over I am feeling rather weird." So a quick look over later.

Julie asked "Do you want the bad news first or the weird news?" I shrugged. "Ok it is bad news first. You are probably going to start to get sick every morning. Got that , good! Now the weird news, You are going to have a baby. You are about two months along." I sat down. Weird was right. How can I be two months along when I haven't been a girl that long? Is this the cost she was talking about? I closed my eyes and felt for my magic it was there stronger than ever. There was a second spot of magic in my belly. The baby has magic, strong magic! I am having a Magical Baby! I fainted.

When I woke I had my head in Lana's lap. The Knight was back and talking to Silent Cat. I could feel Julie looking me over again. I tried to move but Lana held me down telling me to still. Julie finished and said I could get up slowly. I looked at the others one by one. The message was clear, we need to talk. I smiled to the knight.

I said slowly "I am fine now let's be on our way. Good captain I believe there is a lot of miles to go before we sleep." A horse was brought up for me and the rest of the group walked. Ok what did they tell this guy? Am I some kind of Princess or something? Dang the questions just keep piling up. I half dozed while on the horse. Being pregnant took a lot out of you. Things went well except for the hard look from the others.

There was 20 knights to protect us. No one interacted with us but the captain My wings had been in when I met with the captain they were itching to come out now though. at a break I asked Silent Cat "What do you think would happen if I and Lana would bring our wings out? Perhaps take a short flight?"

Cat looked at me "You will live with danger. Yes I think you should just to see what would happen. The good captain seems to think you are a noble of so kind. Wonder what would happen if he knew the truth? That you are no more than a half trained apprentice who happens to be blessed with wings and a book of magic." Talk about hitting hard. I walked over to Lana.

I said "Hi love, want to go for a short flight to stretch the wings." She looked over at Cat who nodded. "I already talked to her she said I should. We want to see how the good captain reacts." She nodded and I walked over to the Captain. "Captain Lana and I are going to have a look around. You and the others go on ahead we will catch up."

Sir Wilson said "I am afraid I can not allow that. These woods are fraught with danger. I can not protect you if you wander off on your own."

I smiled That's ok Captain we wont be in the forest." At that we let out our wings. "I assure you the sky is quite safe." His eyes went wide and he went down on one knee. I flared my wings. As I said Captain Lana and I are going to have a look around." With that I turned and took three steps and was in the air. Lana followed. The captain looked on quite shaken. Silent Cat went up to him and talked to him for quite awhile. I noted this in passing as I was enjoying stretching my wings.

There was nothing of note for miles. After giving my wings a good long stretch I swooped down and landed by the Captain. I smiled at him and went back to the horse. Lana landed next to Julie and they were soon talking in soft voices. We moved on. I didn't bother to bring in my wings. The horse looked like are you ready. I smiled at the horse and smiled. I was feeling very happy. That did not last long. At the next rest stop by the river I got a shock. Julie insisted on checking me over again. I was feeling a little funny again.

When done She Shook her head. "looks like using your magic has affected the baby. It seems every time you use your magic the baby grows faster. I say you are at 4 months now. Keep using your magic and by the end of this trip you will give birth. Look you are showing I think you should switch to a loose fitting dress." If just flying made the baby grow that fast I was in trouble. I looked up at the Captain who was eavesdropping.

I said "Well I guess I can't keep it to myself any longer. Yes Captain I am going to have a Baby. A very special baby. So I do appreciate the horse. I think as soon as I change we should eat lunch then move on." I got up and checked my bag for something loose to wear. We rigged up something to change behind.

Julie insisted on helping me. She whispered "There was one thing I didn't say before. It seems your baby, Girl by the way, has wings. They are not fully formed yet but they may make the birth harder." That startled me. Well at least my baby is a girl. Then a name came to me I smiled it was perfect.

I smiled "My daughter's name is Grace Ann Wells. Julie will you be her Spirit Mother." She looked at me funny. "It is like a God Parent bit, I just feel Spirit mother sounds better." She smiled and nodded. "Thanks Will you tell everyone in our group?" She nodded and helped me finish dressing. That was two things off my mind. Now all I had to do is survive having Grace.

Getting across the river was going to pose a problem. Some one cut the ferry rope and the ferry was on the other side of the river. I looked at Lana. She walked over to the Captain. "Captain give me a rope. I'll fly across and tie it to the ferry and you can pull it back across. How does that sound."

The captain set 5 men on the rope and 4 archers watching the far side of the river. The rest were watching the forest. It only took 10 minuets to complete the task. Soon we were crossing the river. On the other side we found the ferry men dead. We moved on quickly. Even in this modern world bandits seem to be still around.

I was thinking while riding. Who was the father of my baby? A face appeared before my eyes, Josh's face. So my male self got my female self pregnant. Well that is not something that happens every day. I thought on that for a wile. 3 hours later we had a rest stop I went over to Julie and Silent Cat I waved over Lana. Linda followed her. I looked at them all. I said "I have been having a conversation with Grace. Yes I know it sounds crazy but we are linked and we do talk after a fashion. I was wondering who Grace's father was and a face appeared to me. It was Josh's face. It seemed that my other self got this self pregnant. I don't know why or how but I know it is true."

Silent Cat said "With magic everything is possible. As for why you will have to ask the Great Mother. So your daughter is aware even in the womb. That is one for the books."

I said "Grace is a very special girl. More than any other born in this world. I can feel her magic it is mage strength or more."

Lana said "Our baby is truly one of a kind. I can't wait to meet her. What do you think Mom?"

Julie smiled "Speaking as the child's Spirit mother and soon to be Grandmother I think she is the most loved child ever. We all have a stake in this child. We all will take care of her and teach her." A vision of Grace changing into a puma cub flashed through my mind.

I looked at Linda and shook my head. "Looks like she will take after all her family. Seems she will have a puma side." I smiled at the vision in my head. Lana took my hand and gasped as she seen it too. Then I gasped as I got bigger in the belly. Julie stepped up and checked me out.

Julie said "Looks like this kid is in a real hurry to be born. I would say you are near 7 months now and growing rapidly. By this time tomorrow you will be giving birth. you cant travel like this." she turned and called "Captain could you step over here for a moment." When he got here "I am afraid that Angelica can not travel any more till she has had the baby. Is there shelter around here someplace close?" He looked at a map then thought a moment.

Then he said "The only shelter is a bunch of caves that hunters use over that way." He pointed "They are about a mile away. How close is she?"

Julie said "Too close we need to get her there fast. This baby is in one hell of a hurry!" So we hurried along till we got to the caves. At one time hunters fixed the place up real nice. I was got into a cot. I never thought I would be giving birth.

I said "She will make her appearance at midnight. Move the cot so it faces that window I want the full moon to greet her." I was strangely calm. I was not in pain but I could feel the changes to my body. My breast grew a cup size and began to make milk. I felt my hips widen to let her pass. I knew this would be a fast birth. The only thing is will I survive it. I know there should be pain but there was none. At 11 my water broke. I was getting more and more detached. to the point it was like watching someone else go though it. At 11:59 Grace slipped into the world and Julie held her up to the moonlight. I smiled and slipped into the darkness.

I was sitting a chair in that other place that I go to talk to the Great Mother. Nobody else was there. I just sat there for the longest time. Then she was there. he quickly looked me over. She said "You should not be here. Grace needs you. Go Back!" I stayed there. Why I don't know.

I pointed at her "You are keeping me in the dark. Who is Grace? She is like no newborn I have ever heard about. Who is she?"

She said "Grace is the one they are afraid of. When she is grown she will bring magic back into the light. The Seekers will destroy themselves trying to stop her. That is who she is so go back now. GO BACK!

Then I was back. I looked around at the tear streaked faces. "I'm back. How is Grace?"

Lana put my little bundle of joy in my arms. "She is perfect. Where were you? It was like you were dead."

I opened my top and fed my baby. I said "I was for a moment or two. Only way I could talk to the Great Mother. I needed answers and she was the only one to have them."

Linda said "My sister is the only one to die just to ask a goddess for answers and get them. Well who is she?"

I switched sides and said "Only the one every Seeker is afraid of. She has quite the destiny. I can't talk about it yet. Some things have to happen first." I smiled down at Grace then burped her and looked over her wings. Hmm nice but trouble. A sleepy vision of a crib came to me. My baby wanted to sleep. They had a sort of crib set up for her and I handed her to Lana to take care of. I was very tired. So I went to sleep smiling.

We left the caves 2 days later. The rest of the trip was quite peaceful. Grace road with me most of the time. Our link was still there. I knew when she wanted anything by the visions. During break times we shared the duty of taking care of her. The Captain was over to tell us we were moving on when he seen a winged baby riding a black panther. He did a double take. he pointed and looked at me.

I smiled "There is a reason she is called Silent Cat. My daughter is growing real fast don't you think." Grace looked a year old. "Did you need some thing?"

He was staring at Cat "Who are you People? Three with wings an now one that turns into a big cat?"

Linda came up "Two big cats. "Then she shifted and there was her puma form." I smiled at the Captains face.

I said "You really don't want me to answer those questions. Now did you need something?"

He said "We are moving out we will be in Haven tonight." He walked away shaking his head. I was sure he thought we were all nuts. I was not sure he was not right. I decided to walk a bit instead of riding. Linda was carrying Grace in her puma form. Grace seemed to love the ride. She had another growth spurt and now looked 2 years old. Grace spread her wings and after a few tries flew to me. I was so proud. of course half the time Grace was flitting from one of us to another. Be cause of our link I could call her back without words. As she started to talk came the questions and we all tried to answer them all. As a group we decided to raise Grace as a group. We were all family now.

We came over a low rise and there in a small niche in the mountain side lay Haven the walled city. It looked like it had not changed since the middle ages. The captain strode back to us. He said "Behold Haven a place of peace in this crazy world. We have held this spot since the first settlers came to this area." The Pride in his city shone brightly. I don't know why but I needed to respond.

I said "Then good Sir lead us thus to yon city and show her wonders to us." He puffed up and smiled.

He proclaimed "It shall Be as You say Great Lady. All shall bow down to the Priestess of the Great Mother!" So that was what he was told. Well I can play that part. We moved down to the city. It was plain many of the troop yearned to be home. We moved swiftly. The root was worn smooth from usage over many years.

I looked at Lana "Wings in, lets down play this." I pulled in my wings and used the link between me and Grace to teach her how to pull her wings in. After a few tries she did it. She was sitting on the horse with me leaning back almost asleep. I smiled at her and she smiled back. She then snuggled down and slept. I looked at the others and they all nodded. I was calling the play on this one. We were still a half mile from the gates when the attack came. A hail of 20 arrows came my way and shattered on my shield, I had it on bubble to protect Grace too. I don't know why but i held my hand up and suddenly there was a staff in it. I pointed the staff where the arrows came from and lightning shot forth hitting 4 archers. The puma and panther smashed into 2 more. The knights were being hit by foot troops. I got ready for another blast and took out 5 more archers. the cats were hitting more of them. One more blast took out the remaining archers. The knights had the foot troops on the run. The Captain was fighting three bandits I rode up an brought my staff down on the one that was about to back stab him. Julie was healing our troops while the cats prowled the bushes looking for hidden bad guys. Lana was helping Julie. I scanned the area looking for their leader. I found him a little ways away watching the battle. He made a gesture and a fireball flew my way I blasted the fireball before it had went 10 feet. My second shot took him off his horse. The cats have been watching this went for him. That ended the battle.

A little wile later after all had been seen to and the dead taken care of. I stood with the Captain looking at the body of the leader of the attackers. the Captain said "This one is know to me. His heart belongs to the Seekers. He pulled the heavy pouch from the mans belt. He looked inside pulled out three rolls of bills and a 25 gold coins. This goes to the one who defeated him as well as his horse. It is our law." He passed me the pouch and the reins of the horse.

We buried him where he fell with no marker we left. I was riding the fine black horse and Lana was riding the other. Grace was taking a turn riding with Lana. I leaned in to the horse and said "Do you have a name my friend?" A vision of a top of a peak went through my mind. "Zenith?" The horse did his best to nod. I liked this horse. We finished our trek to Haven quickly.

Haven is a mid-evil city with pluming and electric lights. We were let though the wall into the city lust before dark. We went through the winding streets to the center plaza. There was a small reception committee waiting for us. 4 men and 2 women stood there. By the position of the women in the group they were no highly placed. I stopped and waited for the Captain to help me down. I was playing it formal. The captain stepped up to help me down and a trooper stepped up to help Lana down. A boy appeared to take Zenith and the other horse to the stable. One of the men stepped up and said "Welcome I am Chancellor Farin. It has been a long time since the Great Mother has sent us a priestess. We follow many faiths here in Haven. We are glad to have a representative of your faith to see to those who worship Her. I must say there are not many of them among our Men but a few of our women do follow Her." I could tell this person thought of the Great Mother as beneath him. I really did not like him. "We have made a house here available for your party. It is not the best but it was all that was open for use. These two women will act as servants for you." I really did not like this guy. "With that I will leave you to get settled in. Good Evening." He strode off like he owned the place. I looked at him and his toads following him and shook my head.

I said "That one is Doomed." I tuned to the women looking at their downcast eyes and threadbare clothes and thought some changes need to be made. I looked at Julie and she nodded we went into the house. It needed a good cleaning but it was ok. "We have no need for servants but are quite happy to welcome friends that wish to help out. Now lift your eyes and we shall meet as friends. My name is Angelica. This is My daughter Grace. This is my love Lana and her Mother Julie. This is my sister Linda and our Friend Silent Cat. Well that's everyone and you are?"

The first woman said I am Nara this is my sister Carrie. We are pleased to serve you Priestess."

I said while looking around "Well lets all get started. Who's turn to watch Grace" Cat raised her hand "Ok Linda you and Julie get to work on the kitchen Cat pick a out of the way spot and play with Grace. I'm going to check out the sleeping quarters. Carrie and Nara if you want to help you can start in here." We all went to work In short order we had the place in shape. From the wonderful smells coming from the kitchen Julie was making one of her great stews. I went over and picked up my big girl. Grace now looked like a 4 year old. I sat down holding Grace. "Ok that's done. What's next is Nara what is it like for women in this town?" I was wondering if she would answer at all.

She said "I don't know what you want to hear priestess? We work, we live, we love, What else is there?"

Cat said "Angelica leave it for now. We are not here to start a social revolt. The Great mother has other work for you. We need to stay ahead of the seekers till Grace is ready. You told me this, so lets keep our heads down. The time will come cut now is not it." I really hate it when she is right. I sighed and nodded.

Grace said "Why is Mommy sad? Ma, Mommy is sad!" Lana came over.

Lana said "I know baby way don't you go and play. I'll make things better." Once Grace got off my lap Lana got on and began kissing me. That was a great distraction from my dark thoughts. Nara and Carrie said nothing but looked at each other. I guess lesbians were rare here. "We still have a wedding to plan you know."

My staff began to vibrate then flew to my hand. Then we were elsewhere. Lana and I stood in that place just like we did the first time. The woman was there looking worried. She spoke "The world has shifted. your parents have been taken. Your father has died but your mother still lives for now. This spell will bring her to you." She handed me a sheet of paper and a pair of earrings. "These earrings will give you the power needed to use the spell. I am afraid that it is a one shot thing. If it fails the back lash will kill you. use it soon. She may not survive long. Go back.

We were back. Julie looked at us "These little jaunts are really taking a large toll on your body. You need rest."

I said "I'm sorry but I have to cast a spell first. Its Important to me." I quickly cleared the center of the room, took a beep breath and put on the earrings. Then cast the spell with all my magic and heart! for a second I thought I failed then the earrings kicked in and I was given a boost of magic beyond my imagination. The spell shot out then back. And laying on the floor was my mother. She was in bad shape. The backlash from using so much magic hit me and I was out.

When I woke up I was in a bed. I tuned my head when I heard Julie talking to someone. I could see that my mother was awake and talking to Julie. Julie was telling my story as she knew it to mother. My mother was asking questions to clear up things. Mother looked and sounded in ruff shape but seemed to be on the mend. That was good news. I went out again for a bit till Lana woke me with some food. I ate and I looked over and seen my mother was asleep. I wonder what she thinks of all this.

Lana smiled "She is going to be all right. Mom said she has been through a lot but is going to be fine. I had a chance to introduce myself and we had a good talk. I think she likes me. Now you get some more sleep we will talk in the morning." She took the tray and kissed me on the cheek. I snuggled down and slept.

In the morning Julie checked me over and said I could get up if I agreed to take it easy today. I smiled over at my Mother and went over to say hi. We talked most of the morning. She was cleared to get out of bed for lunch. We went down and I introduced all our friends. When I said "And this is my Daughter Grace Ann Wells your Granddaughter. She was amazed. The two hit it off right off the bat. She was taking things better than I thought she would. Grace had another growth spurt and now looked 6 years old. We had a good lunch.

I wondered what the cost will be for Her help. I tried not to think about it too much. I found my staff in my hands and I was elsewhere. She was there of course. She held out her hand. I went to take off the earrings and she shook her head. I held out the staff again a shake of the head. I said "I don't know what you want? The paper burned up as soon as I cast the spell. I have nothing else to give you?"

She sadly smiled "I will give you a gift take my hand." I did and it was like I was being electrocuted without the pain. "From this day forth you will be my High Priestess on earth. You are bound to me. You will have my blessing." she let go and started to turn away then said "I will allow you to wed this one time. but remember you are mine. Go back.

I was back. Julie was looking me over. She said "That was a short. One you feel alright?"

I sighed "I just found out the cost for Her help this time. I have been pronounced High Priestess of the Great Mother. I belong to her now." I looked at Lana "She has blessed our wedding. Looks like you will have to share me though."

Lana smiled "As long as I get you, I can share you with the Goddess." She was taking it better than I thought. I smiled but had dread in my heart over that sad smile the Great Mother had.

I was haunted by that sad smile on the Great Mothers face. I made me think I was in for a lot more trouble. At least she did not object to the wedding. We of course will hold it in Her name. Something was still bothering me. I just could not put my finger on it. Mother was regaining her strength and asking more questions. She knew my Father was dead but not why they were taken in the first place. I said "Simply put it is because of me or more rightly said who they think I am. They think I am going to start a Seeker war. I'm not, they will do that trying to get to me. The one They should be afraid of is not ready for that knowledge. I am only a stepping stone to the destined one."

Mother said "You sound so much wiser than when you left home. Is there any of my son left in you?" I smiled a sad smile.

I said "Just enough to do the job and not go screaming in to the night. I have done things I am not proud of. This being a High Priestess means I can never go back even if I wanted to. I am trapped into a life not my own. The Great Mother made me by setting things up so I would choose to walk her path. Now I am too far from any other way to change now. So I am living this life and looking forward to my wedding. This is who I am."

Mother looked at me "You know why they let me live don't you? It is simple there is a spell on me that the seer will know what I know."

I smiled "There was a spell I broke it when I brought you here. I also sent the seer a little gift in return. The seer was worried about getting old, He does not have that worry any longer."

She frowned "Did you kill him?" She did not seem too adverse to the idea. I shook my head.

I smiled "I was not that kind. You see someone had to take your place. He fit the bill after a little alteration and to a limited amount she can not die except by her own hand. The spell can be broken if she asks the Great Mother for mercy but somehow I don't see that happening." I shook my head. "No this was not my choice. It was all part of the spell given to me by the Great Mother. It was either cast the spell or loose you. No choice at all. I paid the cost and you are here whole and alive so I'm good with it."

She looked at me a little sideways "You have turned hard. I never would have thought that of you."

I sighed "I have learned to take what life gives me and give it right back. I need to check with the others so we will talk later." I went over to Silent Cat to see how she was doing.

While I was waiting for her to finish writing something. I heard Lana say "She is not as hard as she pretends to be. Many nights I have held her while she cried. That is one reason I love her. She can still be soft after all this." I did not hear my Mothers response because Cat turned to me and started chatting. The rest of the day went calmly.

The next morning I woke up in other where. I looked over at the Great mother. "We need to do something the war is coming to soon. We need to give them someone to chase. So you are going on a little ride. Away from the others. I will give you a new ability. It is called blink. You will ride out of Haven and use your new ability when you are out of sight of everyone. It will teleport you to a place not far from your home town. You will get the local Seekers to follow you then when they can't see you use blink again. This will have them looking closer to home and not in the other areas. If this works we will try to pull then away from the other areas. That should settle things down for now and give Grace time to grow up. I can only make her grow only so fast without hurting her."

I said "So I play target to save my daughter pain. I can do that. How many times can I use this ability? Will it hurt me?"

She smiled "As many as you need to stop the war from starting now. I am afraid the more you use it the harder it will be to stop. Your horse may freak out a little at first. Know that I will protect you as much as I can but this is for you to do. Go Back.

I was in bed with Lana again. I shook my head. I got up and started dressing. Lana turned over "Where are you going? It's 5 bloody A.M. you need your sleep."

I sighed "Sorry love I got orders to follow. I will be a few days. No you can't come with me. The war is about to start I need to delay it a bit."

She sat up "You can't be saying you are going alone? That's crazy! At least take a knight or 10. I want you safe!"

I smiled at her all rumpled from sleep and leaned down for a kiss. Then said Sorry love this is something only I can do and it has to be alone. Look after Grace for me. I have to go." I hurried out to the stable. Zenith looked at me and I knew he was ready. I quickly saddled him and rode to the gate I had to wait a bit for them to open the gate. Then I was out and watching for a place to blink out. I soon found one and used the blink ability. It was a strange way to travel Zenith was not happy with me for a bit after we blinked. I knew where I was so I watch for a few and there was a Seeker watching our old house. I decided this was a good place to start. I took aim and blasted a stump near him and when he seen me I rode out. He called it in as he was trying to follow. I let him follow for awhile then ducted into a shaded spot and he lost sight of me for a moment. I blinked out. I did this for six spots then found a place for the night. My trail rations were still in my packs so I had plenty to eat. I blinked a lot in the next 4 days. Finally I felt it I could go back to Haven. I Blinked out and rode up to the gate at haven. I passed through and headed to the house. I was very tired and I am sure Zenith would like a rest too.

I rode up to the house and dismounted. Silent cat was out front. She stuck her head in and called "She's back." Then came up and took the reins from me "I'll take care of him. Your wanted inside." This did not sound good. I guess I am going to be chewed out for taking so long. I walked in and I was glared at by Lana.

Mother started it off "Where have you been Lana said you would be a few days and it has been 10?"

I said "Hmm must be something about the Blink that made it seem like 4. Well keeping a war from starting too soon takes a bit." I looked around. One person was missing. "Where is Grace?" I tried the link. Nothing happened.

Lana said "She has been in a coma since you left." She pointed to a side door. I walked to the door with a cold feeling in my heart. I opened the door and there was my baby laid out on a bed. She looked like she was sleeping. I went over and took her hand. She did not respond to my inner call. I sat in a chair. I knew where she was. I laid my staff across my lap and clasped her hand in mine and went.

I was in other where and there she was sitting pretty as can be. I rushed over "Are you ok? Why are you here?"

She looked at me "Hi Mommy, I've been waiting for you. Has it been long? I can't tell here. I feel sleepy, can we go back now?"

I smiled "Yes baby, we will go back now. Just hold onto my hand." As I was talking to Grace I could see the Great Mother behind her smiling and making a shooing gesture.

And I was back and Grace sat up and stretched. I smiled "Baby you are not ready to go there please don't do that again. It was very dangerous and you had everyone worried."

She said "I am sorry Mommy, I just wanted to see you. I thought you went there because I could not feel you."

I said "I am sorry Baby! I had to do something to keep everyone safe. I did not have time to tell you. Just please don't go there. Talk to Lana first before you do anything if I am not here. Ok lets go see the others." We walked out and everyone was relived. There was some hard stares at me but nothing more was said. Lana was mad at me for several days after that. For once we slept apart. I decided It might be better to rethink being married with this job.

I went to Silent Cat and said "It seem I am not wanted here right now so I am going to check on a few things. Will you look after Grace for me? I am not sure how long I will be. I know it sounds foolish but it is what I need right now."

Cat looked at me "Don't second guess your heart. Yes I will look after her. Yes I do think this is foolish. Do come back." She turned and walked away. I quickly packed and left. I walked up to Zenith and he shied away. You too, well so be it I walk. I turned and left the stable behind. Once out of the city I found a place and blinked to the hills, to the stone circle. I ran into Mother Bear I greeted her.

I said "How has life been here since Silent Cat left? Is the new Shaman any good?"

She looked at me "Where is your cub? You should be with your cub not bothering me."

I said "I sorry I will leave you alone." I turned and walked to the circle. I placed a hand on it and set my thoughts to the Great Mother to look after these people. then I turned to the trees and once out of sight I blinked to the Ranch I walked up the drive and was going to knock when Joann stepped out.

Joann said "What are you doing here, are you bringing more trouble? We don't need any more Seekers coming here."

I said "I just came to see if everyone is alright? I will leave in a few moments."

Helena stepped out looked me over "Have you eaten?" I shrugged and shook my head. "Come in then tell us what you have been up to." It was not a request. I stepped in the house and sat where she pointed. She fixed me a plate and set it in front of me.

When she had sat I said "We left the hills awhile ago as the Great Mother promised a safe place to hide for a wile. I have spent some time doing things for her so she would look after the others. The seeker war was stopped for now. Now I am checking on those we care for. Those in the hills and here."

Helena said "How are you traveling? The hills are a fare piece even by road. Yet I heard no car?"

I shrugged "I have learned many new skills working for the Great Mother."

She looked at me "Eat before it gets cold. We will talk afterwards."

Joann got up from the table "I am no longer hungry I am going to my room." She walked out. I looked at my plate and ate in silence. After the food and no desert I sat with her to talk.

She said "Your not here to check up on us, you are here so you are not there. Tell me what happened to that happy girl that was here before?" So I laid out everything that happened and how it had splintered our group with me the odd person out. I wanted to cry but just did not have the energy.

After I was done I stood up and picked up my bag. "It not safe to be around me so I will head out now. What should I tell Julie about how you are doing?"

She smiled a thin smile "Tell her we all are fine. I plan to go see my sister back east tomorrow. Joann will be going with me. We have shut down the Ranch for the trip. only one we could not find a place for is Lyn. You remember her? Do you think you could take her with you?"

I said "I don't know when I will be back this way it could be a long time. It would also be dangerous to be around me." Lyn came in when Helena rang a bell.

Helena told Lyn "You will be working for Angelica from now on go get your things." Lyn curtsied and went to do as she was told. I raised my eyebrow. She waited a moment then said "We might not come back here too many Seekers around here. I think this is going to be one of the fronts of the war. So I am going to get while the getting's good. I suggest you do what you do and vamoose." Lyn was back. She had changed into traveling clothes and wearing a back pack and carrying a shotgun almost as big as her.

I looked her over and said "come on were moving out." she nodded. We walked down the road till we were out of sight then I held out my hand. When she took it I blinked us out. All the way back to Haven's gate. We slipped in just before it closed for the night. I led her to the house. I was half expecting it to be empty but it was not. I was not sure how long I was gone but Lana came up and through her arms around me and kissed me. Over her shoulder I looked at Grace and asked by link "How long?" I got a vision of a calendar with half the days marked off. So I had been gone two weeks. Hmm Grace was grown into a fine young lady. She looked 16 years old. almost ready to be told the truth. I introduced Lyn to everyone. I sent her to get changed and while she was out I told Julie why she was here. Then she was back in her maids dress ready to work. I smiled "You will be attending Lana and Grace from now on do you understand?" She nodded clearly not happy. Then Curtsied to Lana and Grace.

Look like our little crew has another member. Later I was sitting on the porch and Grace came out. She started "Mother, I have some questions. I am told you are the only one to answer them." I smiled and patted the seat next to me. She sat and looked thoughtful for a moment. She said "I guess the big one is who am I? I know I am your Daughter but Who was my Father? Why is he not around any more? Let's start with that."

I laughed "You don't start small do you. Well let's start with your second question first. You know that everyone has another self. With magic we can bring that side out. My case was a little different because I am living in my other self. both of my selves had magic and both had wings. The big difference is that my first self was male. Through my magic on both sides and a little help from the Great Mother my two sides had a child, you. So you see your father is my male self and your mother is my female self. Of course your Father is still around but in another form. I hope that makes sense. now for your first question we will have to take a trip to see The Great Mother. Let's go to your bed room it will be more comfortable there." We went and slipped up stairs. We ran into Lana I grabbed her hand and pulled her in with us. Time to go we all laid holding each other. I took a breath and we went to other where.

The Great Mother was waiting for us. She said "So I see the time has come for you to hear the truth. Angelica do you think she is ready?"

I said "She is asking the questions that will lead her there. Yes I think she is ready."

The Great Mother said "Lana do you think she is ready?"

Lana said "Yes if she can ask the question she deserves an answer."

She smiled "I might be called the Great Mother but you have two great mothers. One who went out to protect you and one that stayed home for the same reason. Both because you are a very special Girl. You see you are the one that will end the Seekers once and for all. The war that will end them began two hours ago. All their seers can see is your smiling face. They know that they are lost but they are arrogant enough to think if they are the last ones standing you will take pity on them. But that is not how it works. they will kill each other your mothers have seen to that by bringing you to this point. It is the beginning of the end for them. We who watch over all of you will protect the innocent as much as we can. so only the seekers and there toadies will parish in this war. Your part is done. You will be free to live your life as you please very soon. Unfortunately Angelica still has work to do. I will be sending her here and there to talk to the other watchers. Seem she is going to be a very busy Lady for awhile. But you will still have your other mother to lean on."

Lana asked "Will my love be safe?"

The Great Mother smiled "She is special to all of us so I will see that she is protected. If I have to go down there and crack a few heads myself!"

I said "That is some guarantee!"

The Great Mother Looked hard at me "I hear you haven't married this woman yet? What are you waiting for? You have everything you need! Why not?"

I sighed "We never seem to be in the same place, at the same time, feeling the same way
and who would we get to perform the ceremony?"

She said "You are in the same place at the same time are you feeling the same way?" we nodded "We have a witness and I'll perform the ceremony myself. In my name of course. You ready? Ok in my name do you?" she looked at me.

I said "I do!"

She looked at Lana "Do You?"

Lana smiled "I do"

The great Mother said by the power of me, I pronounce you wife and wife. You may kiss." She looked at Grace "How'd I do?"

Grace did something I would never do, She hugged the Great Mother.

She said "And finally go back."

And we all woke in the real world smiling. I looked on my finger at the silver ring. It was just perfect. Lana was looking at her ring and smiling. Grace was fingering a triple heart necklace in silver of course! looks like nobody was left out.

We went down stairs and just could not stop smiling. Finally Josie said "I'll right you three what's going on? You three look like you drank a gallon of giggle juice. So what's up or do we have to go with the head swat again?"

I held up my hand and Lana held up hers. It took them a moment then it all went crazy with questions and answers and just plain fun. Of course Grace had to show off her Necklace. Every one said "FINALLY!" then we got down to talking about what happens now. We decided to stay here till things blow over. I of course was called while we were talking about that.

I looked at the Great Mother smiled and got up and curtsied. A first for me by the way. I said "Does my first trip happen before my wedding night?" I was only half joking but she nodded. Oh here we go! "Where and who?"

She smiled "You need to go in and pull out someone, Silent Cat wont like it very much. It happens to be her ex. But she seems so much happier now that she is a girl." Oh this should be fun. She gave me the place and time of meet and sent me back. When I opened my eyes Lana was there.

She said "You got to work right? Well make it as fast as you can! I want some of our honeymoon to be together."

I got up "I will go as fast as I can if Zenith will do his job it wont take long. He does not like my new way of traveling. Freaks him out a bit. Me to at first." I looked at Grace "By the way Grace when I give the signal sit on Cats lap. She might be a mite surprised when I get back." Grace nodded. I left and went to the stable and saddled Zenith for my ride. We left quickly. Out trough the gate no problem. a little ways away slipped into a dark spot Zenith was getting edgy. He knew what was coming I blinked out.

The spot was a good choice made for anything including ambush. The target came into view. Great she looks like a street walker. I let her hang a bit to be sure it was her. She was getting edgy as the time came and went. then a truck pulled up and I had to laugh at the way she reacted to their come on. I decided she was real and flashed into action I came by at a full gallop and picked her up and swung her up behind me. That short skirt was not a good idea. I almost fell of Zenith when she said "Now that's how to pick up a lady." As soon as I was out of sight.

I said "Hang on we going for a ride." I blinked out. We came out still running. She was clinging to me like a second skin. I reined back to a walk. I said "You can let up now we got away clean." She didn't let go at all. I shifted she shifted with me. dang it Lana wont like this. I felt for Grace in my mind. Yep right where she should be. We went through the gate and up to the house. I smiled at what was about to happen. "Get off now or you will regret it." She reluctantly did as asked. I slipped off and tied Zenith out front. I gave Grace the signal and got the confirm. I opened the door and walked in with her following. Cat looked up and her eyes narrowed.

Cat said "I see you are still dressing like a street walker. It's Heather now is it not."

Heather nodded "And you are going by Silent Cat I believe." I just wanted to slap both of them in the head.

Cat said "You can get up now Grace, I'll behave myself. Good ploy Angelica very effective. You know I would never hurt Grace so you used her to keep me in place. You are learning. Now Heather we should talk alone." She showed Heather to another room for their talk.

I said "I need to put Zenith up be right back in." I headed for the door and got to Zenith as he was taking bite out of a would be horse thief. Poor kid that's leave a scar. I looked at Zenith "Feeling better?" He did his best to nod or bob or something like that. I led him to the stable with him looking very Proud of himself. I gave him his oats and bushed him down and left for the night. I walked in trough the kitchen door and walked right into a right cross. I went down and out.

I opened my eyes in other where. Oh great I walked into something now my body is helpless. I pulled my self up and looked around. The Great Mother was there. When she caught the movement she rushed over. She placed her hand over my heart. After a moment she said "This is not good I can't get a good reading on your body. That means your body may be dieing. We need to know what's going on down there. I will need to call someone else from down there. I don't like this it is dangerous. I will call Grace she can come here on her own."

A moment later Grace was there. She ran over "Mommy We could not wake you up I was so scared."

I asked "What happened? Did I walk into a fight? Was any one else hurt?"

Grace took a breath and said "You walked in on a fight between Cat and Heather. Heather through a right cross and you walked right into it. You hit your head on the way down. I think you are hurt bad. Julie is trying to heal you but when I left it was not working. She said working on the brain is very hard."

The Great Mother said "Go back tell them help is coming." She turned to me as Grace vanished. "This is very bad. I will have to go down there myself. Were you carrying your staff when you were hit?

I said "No but it is getting hard to remember. I think it is by my bag in the living room. Am I going to die like this?"

She said "Not if I can help it!" She closed her eyes then she was gone." I was having trouble staying awake. Then I felt the pull of my body stop for a moment. I was dead down there. I struggled to grab the threads that connected me to my body I just caught it. it was very thin. No more than a few hairs now. Finally I felt the tug to go back to my body. I had to take it. Live or die on this one chance.

I opened my eyes. I had made it. Everyone was there even the Great Mother. Grace was holding my staff. I moved my head Ouch! the Great Mother smiled then vanished. Well I knew she had to get back. I looked at Lana "I'm Home."

She said "Yes you are!" She turned "Now for that Bully! I am not having her in my house! Not after this!" I smiled She was hopping mad!

Grace spoke "Mother, The Great Mother is sending someone to fetch her. She has lost the good will of the Great Mother So she will be treated as a criminal. As soon as it can be arranged she will leave this city and never return. She is banned from Haven." There was a knock on the door "That is the escort give her to them." I noticed Grace was still holding my staff. Cat went to do as asked. Lana was looking at Grace with new eyes and it scared her a bit. My Daughter was a powerful mage and winged like me and had a Puma form as well, she just did not show her strength till needed. Now she was showing it. I slowly pushed into a sitting position.

I held out my hand. I said "That is not your burden to carry not yet. This is your time to be a kid. Don't give that up too soon. I will heal and I will go back to my Duty to protect this family! When I am old and gray it will be your turn. Not before!" She placed the staff in my hands.

she said "Yes Mother I will do as you say. As both my Mothers say. I am a good daughter and will live up to my parents, looking around all of them. There was a very good feeling in that room right then.

My recovery took several days in the meantime Lana and I had a good Honeymoon. A very gentle and loving time. We learned about each other and our selves. 5 days after the wounding I was called back to work. Simple deliver a letter to a certain guy in a certain town at a certain day. Easy right, wrong. got there and he was dead. The cops were coming and there was no place to blink out. Ah I love my work. I had to run for 4 blocks in heels and skirt. Well typical day for me.

Oh bloody Heck not again! These missions are taking me into war zones way too often. The Great Mother sure trust me a lot. In what to me has been the last two weeks I have met 4 of what she calls Watchers. They are what everyone else call Gods and Goddesses. Well it is the job. Now I was going to meet another and She is smack dab in the center of a war zone. To the locals she is known as the Shining Blade. A War Goddess if there ever was one. Pretty in a stern sort of way and very powerful in her area. I worked my way to the heart of the zone knowing that is where she would be. Zenith was edgy and so was I.

I came upon a school house that was in the path of the fighting. Dang it if there was not some kids there. Well I am a mother I can't leave kids in danger. The kids were gathered around a woman who was hurt. This was just getting better and better. I dismounted and led Zenith over to the kids. They were all looking at me afraid of who I was or what I might do. I smiled Just as a group of Seekers came around the corner. They had not seen me yet but they had seen the kids. They raised their weapons but I was faster. a blast from my staff took out 4 of the 5 Seekers. The #5 was slammed against the wall and I walked over an kicked his weapon away. He was barley more than a kid himself. I made a dumb choice I said "Leave don't go back to the Seekers, just get out of here." He slowly got up and reached for the weapon. I raised my staff and he stopped the move. I shook my head and he knew if he went for it he would loose. So he straighten up dropped the gun belt and walked away. After he was around the building I moved over to the woman. She was hurt bad but I was taking healer lessons when I was home. I felt I could save her. It might not be pretty but I did try. Soon she was able to walk even though she was weak.

She said "There is a Temple nearby we should be safe there. It belongs to the Shining Blade." She pointed west. "It is not far I will take the kids and you can move on."

I sighed "The Great Mother would scold me if I did that . I will see you all to the Temple." 3 Seeker patrols later we were at the temple. If I had not been with them they would not have made it.

I turned them over to the priestesses and turned to Leave when a Voice said "My Sister was right about you. You are remarkable. I turned and there She was The Shining Blade. Her Armor gleamed and the Blade in her hand was a bright silver. Pretty in a stern sort of way even when smiling like she was now. She strode over hand out and I put the letter in her hand. "Your Job is done here But I do have a request. There is someone who is not a fighter here in the temple who needs to be elsewhere He is very sweet a black smith. I can't spare anyone right now to take him out. I need all non fighters to be out of here and safe. Would you do this for me?"

I sighed "Where do you want me to take him? The war is everywhere. Dose he have an other self that he uses?"

She looked hard at me "I am told Haven is still free of the war. As to your question, yes he does." She looks away. "He makes the items. Then his other self Tracy takes over and does the fine work and Enchants the Items."

I smiled "Let me guess Tracy is female while Terry is male." She nodded. "Not a problem with me. Yes Haven is free for the moment. I will meet Terry or Tracy whoever they are at the moment." She called over a young girl and sent her to get the Back Smith / Enchanter. It was only a few moments when a young man came hurrying up. He bowed to Her and looked with curiosity at me.

She said "Terry I have asked Lady Angelica to take you out of here. It is no longer safe for a non fighter to be here. Will you do as I say and go with her?"

He looked sad "I will do as you say My Lady. Have you told Her of my oddity?"

She smiled at him "Yes she know and said it is Not a problem with her. Get your things together, you leave with in the hour. Take everything you will not be returning here." He bowed to Her then to me. Then went off to do what he was told with a sad look on his face.

It was a half hour later when he came up with a loaded down horse in tow. It looked like there was barley enough space for him to sit on the horse. He bowed to me. The Shining Blade said "Bless you both may you be safe!"

I curtsied to her and looked at him and said "Mount up this may be a strange trip." Zenith looked at me like That's right. He didn't freak any more when blinking. "Get a good hold on your horse. They tend to freak when I travel." He did And we went out into the yard. It was clear and I reached over and took his hand. "Here we go. Don't freak!" Then I blinked us out.

We came out at my spot around the bend from Havens gates. His and his horse had eyes as wide as dinner plates but did not freak. Well that is how it seemed. I gave them a moment or two to gather themselves. I sighed and led them to the gates. There was no problem going though as always. I headed to the house Terry had been quiet during the trip. He decided to speak up now. He said "May I ask a Question My Lady?" I nodded "What should I call you?"

I smiled "If you want to be formal my name and Titles are Lady Angelica Annabelle Wells, High Priestess of the Great Mother. But most of the time just Angelica is fine."

His eye's were wide again. He said politely "I have heard stories of a Priestess who fights the war alone that is said to wield great powers. There is seldom a name to the Priestess but when there is they call her the avenging Angel. Would that be you?"

I laughed "Avenging Angel I like that. Though it is a bit inaccurate. I am sure these stories are quite blown out of proportion. I just run errands for the Great Mother. Seldom does it lead to fighting. More often than not I am running for my life. Unless there are others involved. Then I will fight and win. Well we are here. You will be staying around back. Would you mind looking after the horses when you are not working?"

He said "That's fine I am more at home with animals than people. Well this side of me is. Tracy is a bit more outgoing." He blushed a little. I showed him to the rooms off the stable. I stayed and chatted as he unloaded and brushed his horse down. Then He came towards Zenith with the brush then stopped. "May I bush down your horse?"

I smiled so polite "Don't ask me ask Zenith. I am sure he will let you but it is always good to ask. Don't look at me that way Zenith. You know you can be a bit touchy at times." The horse tried to pin me to the wall with his rump but I knew his tricks. "See" I was smiling I really liked Zenith. "I will have someone call you for dinner." /with that I headed into the back door. Slowly this time looking for fights. There was none. I smiled when I went into the living room and all my family was there. There was also three strangers. I walked in and said "I'm home. What's going on"

Lana said "These three have come to see you my love. Seem word has gotten around you are looking for a helper. This is the fifth batch since you've been gone. I did not know you were looking?"

I shrugged "That is because I am not as far as I know. Let me check." I sat in a chair and went to other where.

The great mother was sitting at a desk writing. I had seen her do this several times already. It meant more work for me. I said "Great Mother I have delivered the letter to the Shining Blade. There seems to be a disturbing rumor going around town that I am looking for a helper. My house keeps getting visitors looking for said job." Well that was a way to put it.

The Great Mother smiled "Did you bring back the Black Smith?" I nodded "No I did not have anything to do with the rumor. It takes too special of person to do your job. I will look into it. I have decided to give you a bit of a break. You have been working pretty hard and the war is winding down I think it will be over by the spring. So I have decided to have you see some old friends and get them back where they belong. That's why you need the Blacks Smith. It is all part of the plan. Take a rest for a few days and get to know the Black Smith. This is going to be fun. Go Back."

I said "Yes Great Mother." and I was back. The three was looking hopeful. I smiled "I am sorry no job openings at this time." I hurried them out the door. After the door was closed I sighed. "Looks like I will be home a few days this time. There is a plan in place and we need to wait till it is right to go with it." I got a Kiss from Lana, a hug from Mother and Grace and a hard stare from Cat. Julie just shook her head. I said "Oh we have a new person living here. His name is Terry and he is a Black Smith. He's Living in the rooms next to the stable. He's a little on the shy side. Very polite and sweet. He will be taking care of the horses when not working at being a Black Smith."

Lana said "All right what is the catch? What is different about him."

I sighed "Well that would be his other self Tracy. A Enchanter and female. It seems that Terry makes the item then Tracy does the fine work and enchants the item. I think both are quite good. Having his two sides different genders has made him sad. He does not know how to deal with it. This is where a lot of the shyness comes from. I would like to help him and her if I can." That went well no yelling yet.

Lana said "You always bring home the misfits. As long as they don't cause trouble like the last one I wont mind. There are some things that could be made to help out around here. We will see."

So that's how it went I liked relaxing for a few days. It turns out grace and terry hit it off. Then two days in Tracy made a appearance. It was wild because Grace and her really had a good time. Tracy taught Grace how to enchant small items. There was a real good friendship growing between them. Grace was so happy when she got a nail polish enchanted just right to change color with her moods. That was something different. I spent most of my time trying to make up to Lana how much I had been gone. I did get to know Terry and Tracy pretty good. Then I was called and Went to other where.

The Great Mother was not happy. She said "We need the Silver Rose Ranch back up and running as soon as possible. Will you go talk to Helena. Take Silent Cat with you. Go check the sight first to be sure the fighting is over there. The Ranch will play a role in bringing magic back into the light. Take Grace along as well there is something there she needs to see. She will be safe enough. I think this will be good for both of you. Go Back"

I opened my eyes. There was Lana waiting. She said "I guess your time off is up. Where are you off to now?"

I smiled "She wants the Ranch up and running so Grace, Cat and I are going to see Helena. But first going to go to the ranch to find out how it has weathered the war.

Grace came into the study where I was sitting. "Mommy can I have some money to go shopping with Tracy?" She smiled a happy smile.

I said "I am sorry dear your shopping trip will have to be put off. You, me and Cat are going on a little trip. So go get your things together. I'll tell Cat." I got up and was heading out of the room when I turned "Sorry love it is my job."

She said "I know love, I am proud of you. Now get going you have a long way to go." So soon the Three of us were on our way out. I was happy to be on the move again. Come to think of it I am happiest when on the move. Having my daughter and a good friend along this time make me worried but happy. We went along to my spot and took hands I blinked but nothing happened. Some one could see us. I looked at Silent Cat then started to argue with Grace. She took the hint and argued back. This was to keep whoever eyes on us wile Cat slipped away to hunt them. This did not take long. Soon the panther was herding two kids out of the bushes. They looked about 13 maybe. They were dressed in clothes that were too small for them. It was quite clear they had been out here for some time. They looked hungry but strong. While I was looking them over Grace said "Who are you? What are you doing spying on us?" I had never heard her so sharp or harsh before. Well that's what I get for being away so much as she grew up.

The first girl Said "We weren't spying you came to were we were sleeping. Jess and I live out here free to be who we are!" From the way the were dressed I would say midtown Haven is where they come from. Middle class not a forgiving bunch. I got down and touched Grace on the shoulder. She backed off.

I said "Come sit with me Someone wishes to speak with you. They were hesitant but finally the cane and sat taking my hands. I took a deep breath then went.

I opened my eyes on other where. I said Oh Great mother I have found two strays in need of your care. Will you see them?" Of course I was playing it up big just for show.

The Great Mother came in looking like someone's grandmother. Totally bowing my play. She said "Hmm I think I told you strays are your department. I have the rest of the world to look after. Well as long as their here. Hmm what deplorable clothing. Well we will fix that." She pointed to them and they were dressed nicely for afternoon tea. "Ah now that's better. Lets see You must be Jessica and you are Ruby. We will have lunch and then you will go back." There was a table set with three chairs. They ate and I watched for the hints She gave. She was very skillful in bringing out the children. There was a lot of wining and even some crying but soon we had the story. They lived next door to one another for years and had played together every day. When Jess came out saying he wanted to be Jessica his parents through her out. When Ruby's parents refused to take her is the two kids took off. To live as they are and are never going back. The great Mother looked at both of them for a moment. "It seems you both are just coming into your magic. Jessica it looks like you are a earth type. I am not sure yet how your magic will go it is just forming. Ruby you are a earth type as well. It seems you are a finder of rare earths. A very useful skill. I think these two would go real well at the Ranch don't you think." The last was directed to me. I nodded. She went on "Those outfits are nice but hardly right for traveling." A wave of her hand and they were dressed for traveling with backpacks and all. "Oh don't worry those outfits are safely in the backpacks. Now it is time for you to go. I have many other people to look after. Go back!"

We were back. I smiled that was entertaining. I said "Shall we be going?"

Cat said "I thought they would be coming with us when this horse wandered up and waited. You really know how to complicate things. Oh well I guess that is part of your job. Where to Boss?"

I said "Sometimes I wonder about you Cat. We are going to the Ranch. I am told the fighting is over there and I need to see how bad the damage is." So we got the kids up on the new horse and took hands and blinked out.

The road to the Ranch was a little rougher but not bad. We moved quickly but we did not miss anything. The house was intact, a little burnt around the edges but whole. A quick search showed no one had been there for a bit. This took most of the day so we decided to stay for the night. It didn't take long to get the place livable. The kids were willing to work so I found I was getting to like them. After dinner I told stories of my travels of late to entertain everyone. Then we got some sleep.

In the morning we got ready to move. After Breakfast we road a little ways then Blinked out. We came out in a forest. I moved to the edge of the forest and there was a beautiful Victorian house. This is where we will find Helena. I changed into a pretty dress for this. The others changed as well. The kids looked at us. I said "Change into the outfits the Great Mother gave you please. We are going to visit an old friend of ours." I sighed when I looked at the house. Then I heard the yelling. The door banged open and Helena came bursting out. She was heading this way. I looked over everyone and they were all ready. Joann came out yelling at Helena. I never did like Joann much. I held everyone back to see if we could find out what the fight was about.

Joann was yelling "You can't go back now we are just getting set up here! There is fighting there! You will be killed!"

Helena Turned "I have to go back! I never could stand it here! I need MY place!"

Joann was about to yell some more when I decided to stick my two cents in. I motioned the others to stay then walked out till they could see me. I smiled "The fighting is over near the Ranch. The place is a little rough but fixable. I can have you there tonight?"

Joann Yelled "YOU! You are the whole problem! If you had never came to the Ranch everything would have been fine!"

I smiled at her "Stick your head in the sand much? The war was coming I was just a match. Now I think we should talk about this like adults. The Great Mother would like you to reopen the Ranch as soon as you can. She sent me here to talk to you Helena. But first I brought a few people to help. You remember Silent Cat." Cat came striding out to stand by me. "Next is my Daughter Grace." Out walked Grace. "Next are to foundlings looking for a home. Jessica and Ruby." They came out a little shyly. "So you see I had no problem when I was at the Ranch."

Joann Screamed "AAAAAAHHHHHH!!!" and stomped away.

Helena said "The fighting over I can go back? You seen the place it still stands? Hold it, since when do you have a daughter?"

I smiled at her "I'll tell you as you pack. I am sure a lot of people would like to see you back where you belong!" We went into the house. I sat down and I was called. I closed my eyes and went. Helena had her hand on my arm at the time.

I opened my eyes in other where. Helena was a bit surprised. The Great Mother said "Welcome Helena, I have a little something to talk to Angelica about. Angelica I was thinking that it would take too long to transfer everything that is needed. So we are going to do something different. We are going to move the whole house to the ranch. That should speed things up. Take these gems they are part of the spell. What you do is place 4 of the gems around the house then travel to the Ranch and set the second set up where you want the house then cast the spell. You will be drained for a bit but I will give you a few days off to recover. Here's the spell. Now Helena I was hoping to speak to you alone so lets go over here." So they did and I could not hear them. So I looked over the spell. It looked like a tough one. Well to move a house it must be. Then they were back. She said "Go Back!"

I open my eyes. Well that went well. I smiled at everyone to show I was fine. The pouch with the gems and the scroll with the spell was in my lap. I said "Let's get the show on the road. Helena get breakables stored correctly everyone help her. I'll be out side." I got up and walked out. I walked the circle around the house and then placed the gems. I walked into the house.

Helena said "Half hour and we will be ready. Are you ready?"

I said The gems are in place. Now we just need to finish here. Go there and I cast the spell. Should be a fun ride. Do you have a horse here? I seen the car was within the circle."

She said "I have an old bay horse I can ride. Joann could ride with me. If I can get her to see reason. What will happen if she stays in the house?"

I shook my head "She would have one wild ride as far as I know. I would not chance it. Talk to her. I need time to prepare. One half hour is all you have." She ran off to find Joann. I sat and centered myself. I gathered all the magic I had and was ready. I looked up it was time. Every one walked to where the horses were. We mounted and locked hands and blinked out.

We arrived and headed down the road. Soon we got there and looked for a spot to put the house. We found a good one and I placed the gems. I made sure everyone was plenty far away. I drew a deep breath and cast the spell. It took a moment then the weakness hit me and the house was there. I smile and fainted. I just moved a House over 8 states so yes I fainted.

It took me quite a while to recover from that one. I stayed at the ranch for a week to recover and help them get set up. Helena fell in love with the kids and said they could stay with her as long as they wanted. I felt good about that. Silent Cat took the time to visit her people. Grace found the Ranch lovely.

After we left The Ranch I started to want to be home with my family. I was getting tired of the constant traveling. I would not mind if it was work that did not threaten my life so much. I decided to talk to the Great mother about this. When we got home I went to the study to have a safe place to go talk to the Great Mother. I sat in a chair and closed my eyes and Went.

I opened my eyes in other where. The Great Mother was there. I was not sure how to bring up the subject. She said "You are tired. I have over used you. You are thinking of quitting. I can't blame you. So I have decided to call someone else. No they wont be part of your family. I have been watching a girl. She has potential. I knew the day you would want to go back to your family would come. For now I will allow you to retire. Though if the world needs a person such as your self I reserve the right to call upon you again. I have fixed a place for you and here is your new Identity papers." She handed me a big envelope. There is a way you can still serve. I have prepared a place like the Ranch. That needs someone to run it. I would like you to be that person. Here is all the information about it." She handed me another big envelope. Go back talk it over with Lana and Grace. We will talk later. Go Back!"

I opened my eyes and sighed. Well that was it I was retired. Time to spend with my family without ducking Seekers all the time. I got up and walked into a fight between my mother and my daughter. I held up my hands as the shouting got real high. I said "This can wait. I have a announcement." Once everyone was there and looking at me I said I have been thinking and talking to the Great Mother. It is been decided it is time for me to retire. No grace that does not mean you step into my job. I will be doing other work for the Great Mother. There are many with magic that were harmed by the war. We will run a home like the Ranch. It will be a place that those with magic can come and study and get a handle on what they can do. It is all set up if we want it. The main thing is I will be home not traipsing all over the place. So what does everyone think?" The answer was a party. I did pull Grace and Lana into the den for some serious talking the next day.

We ended up talking for 4 hours. It seem they liked the Idea but were worried the dregs of the Seekers flunkeys would cause trouble for us. I decided to let the Great Mother answer that concern. I had them hold on and I went.

I opened my eye's and I was in a garden. This was different. I smiled at the dress the Great Mother was wearing. We walked over and I seen she was not alone. The Great Mother looked up. She said "Nice of you to visit. I see you brought the family. That is nice. Angelica I would like you to meet Lynette. Lynette I would like you to meet Angelica, Lana and Grace. Angelica is my High Priestess. If you need help with your new duties you can ask her for advice. These three have been through a lot in this war. Some call Angelica the Avenging Angel."

Lynette said "I have heard whispers of such a person I never thought I would meet her. Are these your helpers?"

I shook my head "Lana is my wife and love of my life. Grace is my Daughter and my pride. Together we can face anything even retirement. I just came to give my decision to the Great Mother."

The Great Mother smiled "I know your answer but speak it if you must. This was headed before the war began even if you did not know it. I'll have two cars waiting for you at the Ranch. I think it is time for Silent Cat to go back to her people. The rest may stay of go as they will."

I smiled "You are right, I am going to retire. I just needed these two to believe that you will let me. I think they know now, so I will bid you a fond farewell for now. We have a lot of things to do."

She and Lynette smiled and waved. I took Lana's hand and Graces hand. When Grace said something that surprised me. She said "Good bye Great Grand Mother I love you."

The Great Mother said "Good bye dear Grace, my Great Grand Daughter. We will see each other from time to time. You are heading somewhere as well. Though It is too soon for you to know where. Now it is time for you all to Go Back!"

We were back. I said "look that was a risky thing you did you know Grace? I know she is easy going sometimes but What you called her. I guess it was nice but could have been taken wrong."

Grace just smiled at me. I shook my head. Lana just burst out laughing. We walked into the main part of the house and everyone was there talking. Cat was saying "I visited my people while we were at the Ranch they do not like the new Shaman. I need to return to them. I have done what I was here for. I trained Grace in the ways of the Cat. Now I must go back that is for sure."

I spoke up "The Great Mother agrees. It is time for everyone here to decide if they wish to stay on with us as we move to the new place or go your own way. This is a crossroads for us. Cat your road leads back to your people. The rest must decide on their own. Grace, Lana and myself will be going to the new house day after tomorrow. Please let us know by tomorrow where you plan to go." I finished speaking and walked towards the kitchen to get a drink. Lyn was there. I looked at her "You can come with us or go on your way it is your choice." After a second she took my arm and pointed at herself then at me then put her hands together. The meaning was clear. "We will be glad to have you at the new house. Have your things packed by the end of tomorrow." Well that was 1. I got my drink and went to check over my things and pack.

It was surprising how much stuff I got seeing I was moving around so much. I went through it all and packed what I didn't need right away. I decided to go out early tomorrow and get some pack horses for the trip to the ranch. By the look of Grace's and Lana's stuff I better make it 5 of them. I do need to limit what we take so the horses are not overloaded. I did remind them we are going back to the modern world. So much of what they had was not going.

Diner was a quiet one. Everyone was thinking about their lives and where to go from here. After dinner Stacy came up to me "May I talk to you?"

I smiled I had expected this. "Of course sit down and tell me what is on your mind."

She tried to smile "I have been thinking I have no where else to go. Grace and I are best friends now. So I would like to go with you to the new house. If you have a problem with my male side I will stay like this. I kind of like being a girl anyways."

I looked her up and down. "You don't have to be stressed, you can come. We will talk about the boy girl thing later. Be ready Tomorrow. I need Terry to help me with getting the pack horses in the morning. For now you better pack." That's 2.

I went to bed early because I was leaving early to get the pack horses. Lana puttered a bit then joined me for the night. I dreamed of light and sound that had me dancing.

In the morning I was happy. I knew I was on the right path. I got ready and headed down for a bit of breakfast. Terry was waiting for me in the kitchen. After a quick bite to eat we headed out to find some horses. It took most of the morning but we had found three more riding and five pack horses. It should do. We might have to double up but then that's fine. The ride to the Ranch will be short. When we got back my Mother and Julie came to see me together. Julie said "I think we June and I would like to stay with you kids for a wile. Just till you are settled then we are going to find our own place together. It would be a way for all of us to heal from the war." That's 3 and 4.

I smiled "That will be fine. All that's left is Linda." I went looking for her. I found her out front looking at the people going by. "Hi sis, you are the last one to choose. I don't want to put any pressure on you. I just need to know what way you are leaning."

She said "I will go with you. I don't know how long I will stay. I feel this pull but it is not strong yet. So I am not sure where it is pulling me. So for now I will go with you."

I said "I know how you feel Sis, I was like that not too long ago. You will find your way or something will push you in that way. I believe in you." I smiled and hugged her. After a second she hugged back. W parted and I went back inside. That was all of them. Only Cat was parting at the ranch. It will be a houseful for a while. Well what's new with that. I started to put my things by the back door readying for the trip. Soon everyone's was there. I checked the time then the house and said lets go. We packed the horses and loaded up ourselves. Soon we were off to the gate. As the sun lowered in the sky we left Haven for good. When we got to the spot it was a bit tricky to blink all of us at once but I managed it.

Then we were riding down the road to the Ranch. Helena was waiting for us on the porch. Helena said "There are two Range Rovers with horse trailers waiting for you by the barn. A Little Girl came up saying you would be coming through and would need them. I hear California is a nice place to live if you stay away from the big cities. I am sure you will pop by now and then to let us know how you are doing in retirement. I'll put you all up for the night and you can get a good start in the morning. I will hear no argument. Now dinner is almost ready so go wash up." So we did all of us smiling. That night it was one hell of a Hen party. Terry was in Tracy mode so there was no men anywhere to be found. Jessica was really along her way to being a full girl and happy about it. We said good bye to Silent Cat after the party. She just slipped into the night like she had never been. The teary eyes told that she would be missed.

In the morning after a good breakfast we loaded up. I made a gift of the five pack horses to Helena. She just smiled. We loaded the riding horses and we were off. It was a long trip to northern California but we made it in three days. Finding the new place was really a challenge. We did find it and it was like coming home. Everything was so right. There was a stable for the horses. The house was a rambling Ranch style house that looked real comfortable. It turned out to have 10 bedrooms and 12 baths. The kitchen was huge and dining room could feed 20 at a time. There was a garage for the rovers. There was even a lake out back. I was Home! I tried the keys and they worked. We had the right place. We fully unloaded and picked our rooms then set about setting up house keeping.

In the morning I was in a nice dress looking over the lake when a familiar voice asked "Are you happy Angelica?" I smiled I had set my staff leaning on the wall. I knew she could project though my staff so I had it with me.

I laughed "Yes Great Mother I am happy beyond words."

She smiled "Good as soon as you are settled in there is a young woman in need of your help. Time to get to your real work Angelica."

I smiled "Yes Grandmother!"