To those afraid of my soul, I was alive and well but with a twist. When waking from a little nap, I actually found myself within a ship set for Europe. The name, the Charleston, was a fine ship that held enough supplies for a little girl to survive the long weeks. Unfortunately, sins piled against my young body for I had no choice but to be a little rat and steal. The crewmen and their cat that protected them from the rats and mice didn't see or sense me. My senses sharpened but my memories may have dulled in the madness. I stole food and drinking water to remain alive. If lucky, whenever passengers about the young age I was present, I'd steal their clothes in their deep slumber. I used their bathing water as well to clean my little body. I even cut my hair with any pair of shears to neaten the tips. My little abode was a crate in which I emptied of food and remained shut to welcome the darkness to my sleep. I used a stolen blanket to keep me warm or use it as a pillow since my little body fit inside the crate. In order to be kept with time, I would look into someone's journal and continue the same rituals to survive. Some of the sailors even believed that I was a little ghost that died from their journeys. I didn't mean to frighten them. I didn't mean for this to happen.
But, sad to say, my prosperous fortunes of being a thief had to end not by a sailor's hand, but by the strong waters of the Atlantic. A storm brewed violently and the sailors didn't know that I was upon the ship that was violently being beat by the waves. Some of them lost their lives to the freezing waters while others continued to fight the endless war of wind and water. I, myself, was frightened senseless in the crate I used as my home. I was lucky to gather supplies and use them in case the ship didn't succeed well. What I didn't know was that the sailors began throwing some of the empty crates out into the sea to remain afloat. They didn't know I was inside one of them and I begged to be set free from my wooden cage. Alas, they didn't hear me due to the mad storming seas, thunder, and lightning. I was tossed into the sea as if I was nothing and bobbed away from the ship. The entire boat was set ablaze by a single thread of lightning and through a little peeping hole, I watched as the sailors and passengers abandoned ship. I watched them be whisked away on the lifeboats while I bobbed away in the violent Atlantic.
As the days would pass and my food slowly became scarce, I eventually bobbed onto the mainland. I was fortunate to be alive but I was weakened from being inside the crate for so long. My body was wet and cold due to the Atlantic seeping its way into the wood. With all my strength, I was able to free myself with much effort from my weakened state. I found myself upon a beach but I had no strength to walk. For a moment, Death would whisk me to the afterlife and I'd be judged for my actions. I even said a little prayer to forgive my thieving ways and even begged for someone to find me. I was fortunate when a few fishermen saw my little body washed ashore. They saw me as a little boy and took me to their home, raising me to be a young boy instead of a young girl. I wore shirts and pants, paired with waterlogged boots from working by the seashore and in their seaside cottage. I kept it going until womanhood began to kick me. Even the fishermen eventually let me leave them after a few long months and I set out on another journey. To them, having a woman by their side seemed to be bad luck. They didn't even let me own a horse so I'd move on. Fish wasn't on the menu anymore and I had a hard time surviving when reaching the forest. There were times wolves even attempted to devour me and I hid in water to conceal my scent. Misfortune continued to plague me as the next set of long summer months came around. By now, I was around the age of ten, and someone eventually took pity when seeing me. An Irishman by the name of Jackson Edward took me into his arms and escorted me to his town. For now, you were afraid of my soul not doing well, but now, fortunes would soon come piling upon me. But with fortunes, something else would begin to plague me.
~5 years later…~
From all the adventures I owned, I finally settled into the place I now called home. The home, in which you ask, was a farming community known as Allerdale within the unmarked lands of Europe. It was far from the sea from which I learned how to supply the fishermen with life and warmth but it was better since there was more in store for me. Everyday within the long months, markets were displayed along with shops full of the grandest items and supplies. I recalled the fishermen heading off to a nearby town from my younger years from which I prospered from their pickled eggs or vegetables if lucky. How the sour taste would pucker my little face.
Well, aside from it, the town was prosperous but the western to northwestern side of town was for the higher ranks in which they used to spend upon more land or ravenous styles. For the southern part of town, local merchants would spend their time hoping a little tavern or inn would satisfy their tastes with the locals of any side of Allerdale. Northern Allerdale was home to anyone looking for a new set of pace in fashion or even wealth. After all, striking it rich was considered a little show. Some would be lucky while others wouldn't. But last but not least was the eastern side of town. Most of the markets would gather around but start near the mayor's fine town hall. From weapons to books, the eastern part of the town in which I lived would belong. But beyond where the town lays with its main borders would be the Catholic church surrounded by luscious greens of many leaves from trees and shrubs during the spring and summer. From time to time, the monks that worshiped God unconditionally would plant little lilies on Easter and when the long winter months came around, the beds would be filled with plants with what they called "Death's Bouquet" as what the townsfolk called them. But from time to time, I'd go running through the everlasting Wisping Forests outside from the church's borders. Jackson (or Jack, for short) would go running through the forests or riding on a powerful stallion to race for any wild game meat. The man, now at a striping age of twenty-three, would be prosperous to be given such a good hunt for a strong buck or wolf. Even Northern Allerdale didn't waste any of the pelts Jack removed from the precious meat.
In speaking of Northern Allerdale, aside from the fashion, were a few small farms where many generational members of their families would give their lives to their livestock. From cows milky white to stallions black as pitch, their lives were wondrously hardworking. When autumn came around, local farmers who sold lucious crops would come with large baskets or even wool for the young or elder spinners to create yarn or ship them off to the nearest cities to create the warm wool for the winter. The eastern townsfolk wouldn't dare miss the rare opportunity to snatch luscious fruits or strong vegetables.
Along with the northerners, Southern Allerdale would have its details in all the fun. The many breweries from the town itself or of the outskirts would be joyful of finding the grains needed to create their ale or beer for the taverns or inns. From certain times, I watched the local men or merchants passing through the town become so drunk that even they passed out from all the fun or violent madness. Local restaurants would have the fun of cooking the fine meals. Even they would tell such tales of many journeys through the European countryside or cities. They even would speak of seeing wondrous places beyond the continent's borders, speaking of lands full of people dressed in beautiful silks and satins all dressed in robes with many patterns. I, myself, would be involved, but the men would laugh at a girl not being able to get washed into the mess.
Speaking of messes, Western Allerdale held a dark secret and only the children or coming-of-age adults held it. Years before you and I were born, a man by the name of Charles Peckerton made a hunting and fishing club for the high ranked society. In the old days when the town of Allerdale was still brand new, the prosperous man also had much land and even a lake large enough to be of fun. The business, you ask, was of wealth from breweries and of merchandising his products. Again, only the wealthy souls could have their luxurious times. But during those days, there was also a small town southwestwestern of Allerdale. Unfortunately, the town known as Greenwich suffered from a flood in which Peckerton's club was to blame along with a storm during a late August afternoon. Peckerton passed by unknown circumstances and the younger generations would speak of his untimely death. They spread gossip from each generation to the next, saying that the man did self-harm, and his ghost lingered in the estate now long abandoned. Even the younger generations would dare themselves to see the poor ghost and test their bravery if they ever did. Most children or coming-of-age adults would run for the hills, saying that the ghost would haunt their dreams at night for being a thief and stealing his ghostly gold. Only a few would take a little piece of proof (examples being a little piece of his wealth or an old chunk or furniture even how mad it was) and tell the dashing tales dancing with the dead man himself.
As for now, I've done enough with my little tale when reaching the town all those years and exploring it. I'm sure you're bound to what'll happen next! I did, after all, create such a mess of even giving you such mad detail of the town I sweetly adored and despised. But as for myself, most of the time, I forgot what my life was back in New York. Those days with my parents and Aunt Maria were deep in my mind. Those days with Charlie Sharp were embedded deep in the back of my mind. Those days with Grei and the creature were nothing but a childhood dream. As for my own name, I wished to honor my dear mother with her maiden name. I wished to return to those days but my days were spent with Jackson who was close to me like a brother or a potential lover. I was already fourteen years old and going strongly to fifteen and the thoughts of love were through my mind from time to time. Yet, my dearest mind would begin to spiral this late spring day. How interesting would I tell you this part of my story? I would be placed for the test along with not only Jackson but another I met as well during those passing spring days fading to summer days and nights. A young boy in which I never thought would be with me for the ride. But not everything would be as they appeared.
June 19th, 1829
"You wish to do what, my friend, Jack?" I was quite alarmed when hearing such news from his mouth. I watched the man play with the five o'clock shadow against his jawline and cheeks for a bit as his umber eye shimmered in the afternoon sun. How I remembered how his left eye would always remain closed and that scar of his would remain present for all who saw it. Outside that intimidating look was a gentleman I knew, "Well, you heard me, yes, my blood red and orange haired lassie?" "Well, I did, Jackson, but are you sure to accomplish a task? I may be fourteen but--" He laughed while cupping some of the river water, "Don't worry about it. I got it all under control! Really, lassie, I mean it." He splashed the water against his face. It was a hot afternoon after all but I was chilled to my core. Jackson wished for me to have a little fun with Peckerton's ghost in that abandoned place. I recall him doing it years ago but never would the thought come around for me to give it a shot. I was a little tomboyish, wearing pants and shirts instead of bodices and many layered skirts. I still wore my corset to keep me tight and proper but never in my life would I ever accomplish stealing a piece of that wealth Mr. Peckerton owned it years ago. I was quaking slightly not only in fear but also enthusiasm. Never would the day arrive that I, Laura Diana, would ever wish to accomplish this task! I glanced high at the canopy decorated in leaves but also with little bits of life. The birds chirped loudly as if in delight but I noticed a black one looking at me. Its feathers shimmered in all manners of green, purple, and blue. Its black beak and eyes shimmered in the light and I blinked for a moment. If I was correct, I saw a male with large wings, hair that was like its wings, and bird feet. Its face was like mine but held some sort of markings against it. I glanced back at Jackson who was busy cleaning himself in the river and I glanced back at the male. Unfortunately, that male was gone but I began thinking if that being was attempting to warn me about something. I just didn't know why or what. The bird squawked loudly and eventually flew off with a few more behind it. I just wished whatever I saw recently was a good sign. If not, I felt a pit beginning to grow inside me. The inner child within me grew mad with insanity and fear. I didn't wish to do this but if Jackson wished for me to do this, then I shall accomplish the task.
~~~
I never felt so frightened. Here I was, when the moon seemed full but not empty, I stood before the old club where Mr. Peckerton and his little gang of high class friends would spend their days and nights in a land of wealth and paradise. I stood before a place where laughter and joy was only for the wealthy man. But now, the place was overrun by nature and a laughing stock of high society. The place was about to shatter just from the sheer weight of nature taking its rightful course. I swallowed the vicious lump forming in my throat as Jackson waited for me. I turned to him for guidance and the instructions were simple: Find a piece of his wealth and I'd be set free. If I didn't, Peckerton would find me and I'd be a dead soul. In other words, I wasn't manly enough to be brave and I'd never have a second chance unless I begged for it. Yes, I wanted to do this but I was frightened senseless. Perhaps this is what children and coming-of-age adults would face from time to time. Well, There was no going back and I was beginning to head inside.
"Wait." Jackson snatched my shoulder and I yelped, "What?" He backed away from me and offered his hand amidst clearing his throat, "Uh~ Your lantern?" My amber eyes widened, "I beg your pardon?" He gave me a gesture, "You have to do this with no lantern. Plus, if my memory serves correctly, there are some candles in there." He smirked a little, "Have fun playing under the moonlight." I grimaced and surrendered my lantern to him. This wasn't fair! I had to search for wealth by moonlight? Well, call me a moonshiner instead and consider myself on the line between success and failure. This was absurd! I turned around and faced the estate with my little coat fluttering like bird wings in the cool winds of tonight. I snorted slightly like a mad dog and opened the rotting gates. The first thing that greeted me were little bugs crawling up my hands and I shook them off. I heard Jackson giggle and scoffed. This was nothing to me. I've been through worse…I think?
As I approached inside the entrance hall, the floorboards creaked and moaned like the dead. I felt rotting leaves against my knee-high boots and the voice of the house telling me to leave. But, I didn't leave the place. I narrowed my eyes when the darkness surrounded me. I was inside the hall after a few steps and was greeted with old 18th century furnishings from old loveseats covered in moss and mold to a dead fireplace now nothing but a little hill of dead insects tangled in many spider webs. Even through the broken windows and shredded curtains, the place remained to dance with many shadows. I caught the smell of decay in the air and heard the noises of such groaning only a person would make if in agonizing defeat. Shadows in which only Death could conceal its form under the black cloak with the scythe close behind.
"Alright, Mr. Peckerton," I nodded confidently and held that same demeanor in my smile, "Time for me to play the game you despise with the living." I stripped my deep umber tailcoat after dusting a little coat hanger and began searching for the gold the poor soul left behind. Of course, the man didn't leave any bloodlines. Not to mention the man didn't marry a willing woman for they saw him as a bitter man drowning in alcohol and wealth. How my light tan pants were covered with a layer of sooty gray dust and gossamer webs decorated my strapping dark umber boots. My waistcoat, slightly patterned with hints of blue and gold with black buttons to secure them, was lit under the moonlight until vanishing once again in the darkness. The faded cream shirt I owned along with its cravat danced once or twice with the bugs that wished to dance along my tied back blood red and sunset orange hair. The chestnut roots within my hair shimmered slightly when I paused, glancing into a broken mirror that once belonged to a socialite. I felt my somewhat fear-filled breaths being labored by the corset I wore underneath and acted as mocked armor in case something were to strike me.
I frowned my light carnation lips, "Not a sign of your gold?" I just needed one coin or even two if I considered myself lucky to just find the wealth. I wrinkled my sunset orange brows as my rosy cheeks covered in freckles puffed in slight frustration, "Trying to give me a hard time, yes?" I blew one of my wavy bangs away from my head since it had a little habit of falling to my right eye. The little curl near my cheek bounced slightly as I continued strolling through the corridors. Marching through them was simple, but ransacking the place from top to bottom just to find a piece of wealth was proving more difficult than I expected. I felt time ticking by and the moon wasn't helping either. Its dull light only assisted me whenever a window was present but frightened me whenever something was close to me. I just hoped to find something of value.
~~~
How the old chandelier cracked on its rusted chain as I visited the dining hall. Everything for the final dinner was placed into a wondrous setting. Yet, everything from the forks to knives and even the porcelain dishes were gone. Even the spoons were gone from their drawers. I frowned while closing the door behind me, "Still nothing…" Yet, It's when I ceased that I began to listen. I heard something moaning again and I blamed the wind at first. Yet, I began hearing the noise again as I continued back to the entry corridor. Nothing was present but the smell of something decaying began to sicken me. I felt sick in my stomach and my heart ached. A rancid smell of death filled the room as the moaning continued to echo through the corridors. I glanced around, "Jackson? Okay, very funny." I let out a timid giggle, "Come out now. You've had your fun." I went to the window and found it sealed tightly from years of neglect. I began seeing Jackson looking a bit nervous as he glanced around. I tried knocking on the window but I didn't come back with a piece of gold or any other wealth. Treason! All of it would be that way! I didn't wish to be seen as a coward! I was just like the other boys even if I was picked on for the last few years just for being a woman. I gripped my fists and went back to my search. I knew that going upstairs seemed easier but I was already there. If I recall, there was also a cellar where any leftover alcohol would be present for many affairs or celebrations. It's what I heard from many rumors but my thoughts were ravaged and torn when the moaning began again.
"Okay! That's quite enough," I screamed out in rage, "You had your fun!" Jackson's head turned quickly as I glanced at the corner of my eyes. The man I knew as my friend looked at me strangely. I had enough of the madman's game! "Jackson, I'm done! I didn't find any but I'm not fri--" He began screaming something to me and I wasn't able to hear him. I was confused as Jackson began waving his arms and continued shouting like a mad monkey from Africa.
"Jackson…" I saw my breath and felt the air get cold. I blamed the wind and began to place my coat on. The only treasure I owned through this mad mess was myself. Life was the greatest treasure, not gold or silver. Yet, why did I feel my breath grow colder each time? I felt pain within my chest as I continued feeling even more ill. I knelt on one knee whilst my head spun from the dizzy sensation flowing like a deluge within my mind. I felt my entire body shake amidst hearing the faint shouting Jack attempted to sing for my ears. "Jack~" I hoped it wasn't the time I always despised, "I don't feel well." Was this part of the sensation Mr. Peckerton's ghost given to others? I began feeling even more ill that I began to throw up little by little. Little chunks of undigested food and drinks littered the ground as the moaning noises continued to grow louder with each pound driving through my mind. I began to lay myself onto my side and vomit more of my dinner. The acidic burn of bile bubbled to my throat and mouth and my subtle body quaked from the pain. Jackson continued screaming, begging for me to get up. I twitched madly when the cold came over my body. I knew I went through worse when I was lost in the crate all those years ago. No, I wasn't going to give up.
I began fighting the illness and the moaning turned to screaming. Through it all, I heard a man beg for mercy. My mind began seeing pictures of the so-called man known as Mr. Charles Peckerton backed away from something in fear. I heard his feet begin to trip and his body fell. I covered my ears and screamed as if I was in pain. I heard his leg become broken and imagined it being in some twisted manner. Something else was walking within a calmer pace as he backed away to where I was now: The entry hall where everything began and ended. I heard Jackson scream in shock as if I injured myself. No, I screamed in horror when I saw the visions pass through my mind.
"My God!" My jaw dropped and I saw a man before me dressed in Rococo fashion. My eyes were in horror as I saw the man limp towards me but not in a menacing way. It was as if he was begging for assistance. The vision before me was terrifying and with it, I saw the man's throat. It was dyed deep red right where his Adam's apple would hide under the flesh. The slit was deep and wide but ended with two sets of bite marks on each side. It heard him choking as he attempted to walk but the broken leg made him fall immediately to the ground. I screamed, fleeing towards the wall and proceeded to watch him crawl and choke upon his own blood. The dying hand was out for my own living hand as if I was a socialite or some other wealthy soul. I was a commoner but my amber eyes continued watching the horrid scene continue to play in front of me. The choking noise became worse and I watched him descend to the ground with a flop. His entire body was shaking as the rancid smell of death and decay came from that mouth of his now nothing but a gaping wide hole.
"He did this…"
It was too real and I screamed in horror. A corpse was in front of me and not a simple ghost! I begged for Jackson while smashing my fists to the window, "Let me out! I'm done with this godforsaken game!" I turned back as the corpse began to rot even quicker than before, revealing nothing but old clothes and a skeleton. I didn't want to accomplish this again. I couldn't see Jackson anywhere outside and I was frightened. He was the one who closed the door after I went inside. He was the one to keep an eye on things! Why did he leave me? I heard something screech out and I screamed. I saw a shimmer of something that looked like metal and dodged out of the way. I turned and saw large wings that shimmered under the low light. I ran away like a frightened mouse as whatever was there attempted to snatch me. I ducked near the corpse as whatever it was landed with a large thud.
I attempted to stifle my cries and breaths as whatever beast came for me landed near my figure. This horrid beast's foot was shaped like that of a bird but stomped like a giant ape's massive strength. It's face came near me and I felt something that was formed like some sort of horn or beak. The horrid eyes or holes loomed over me like Death wishing to rip my very soul out of my body. I had to play the villain and kill the hero. I had to fight back but how? Jackson was versatile with a pistol but I only knew a few things from him. He taught me how to do a fist fight but nothing else. I was too trepid to pull a trigger on a gun. The large wings were feathered and surrounded me before quickly retreating into a large mass of feathers. Angered eyes shimmered in the dark as human arms with long nails came to fruition. I continued to back away as this strange creature with its birdlike head and demonic horns were prepared to strike. It didn't speak a single word as a caw that sounded like a crow that was a hundred times larger than the average bird cried out. The long nails came and I dodged out of the way. My coat tails fluttered and the nails caught on. I screamed as the powerful wings flapped hard and I went high. I felt the bird feet snatch onto my body tightly while feeling splinters of wood collide against my face.
The birdlike face was instead a skull that looked like a bird but larger. I was able to see the human eyes shimmer with rage as my own amber eyes widened in horror. I glanced and screamed when I found out that I was high from the ground. A sinister smile came from the beast's throat. I wasn't able to understand it since the language it spoke wasn't one I knew. It sounded like two or three broken languages as it spoke to me, turning me slowly with its bird legs. I felt those long nails touch my face as I feared for my life. I growled like a dog and attempted to nip one of those fingers from its strange human hands. Even they were covered in feathers except for the middle of the hand where the middle knuckle was located. The palms were black as pitch except for where the little triangle divided the rest of the hands.
It spoke again in a rude manner and looked like it wanted to eat me. "How dare you even think of accomplishing murder or even cannibalism?" I retorted in fear, "Let me go! Please, it was for a dare. I didn't mean to--" It screamed at me and the two of us quickly headed for the ground. I felt myself collide with the soft ground first as the body of whatever this beast was turned back to the even more gruesome self. I was able to see a four winged bird with horns on its head instead of feathers. I felt my body being pinned to the ground since it towered me like a strong man within a sideshow attraction. One of the feet's middle claws were longer than the rest and was sharpened like a Middle Eastern saber. I was frightened that my life would end right here and now but I wasn't going to die. I began thinking of anything that'd save me. I even brought my teeth into the game where I bit hard against the creature's leg. It screamed and I was lucky that the middle claw didn't hit me. I was lucky to even free myself and begin running.
"Jackson!" I began fleeing by foot and that beast began to follow me, "Come out!" The beast screamed louder than before and flew high into the air. I heard the rustle of trees and overgrown plants getting destroyed from both high and low. I didn't care where it came from and continued running. Perhaps if I reached the river, I'd be alive like how the wolves did long ago. How clever I was when I was little when they lost my scent. Yet, I was ignorant! How could I forget? I remember the rivers when Mr. Peckerton possessed the land, he drained them of all water. I felt the claws come near my head a few times and I was lucky to duck a few times. Yet my body was growing weaker and the behemoth knew. How it laughed with its crow-like chuckle and continued swinging its claws at me. I tripped and fell against my front. I turned and saw it ready to pounce on me. No no no! Not this time.
I began rising from the ground but my body grew rigid. I glanced at my foot and found what looked like a tree branch caught against my ankle. No no no! This can't be happening! The behemoth screeched out violently and its claws were prepared to strike me. The more I struggled, the closer it became, and the worse the situation became for my soul. I blinded my vision with my arm, ready to embrace the horrid sensation. I heard the behemoth scream out in rage but then suddenly in pain.
"What?" I rose slowly from my form but ducked when hearing someone scream out. It sounded human but also like a beast. I saw what looked like a flame but the color wasn't a warm orange or yellow. Instead, it was a deep reddish hue with hints of orange and the beast wasn't enjoying it. I heard it scream out and I rose with wide eyes with the scene unfolding before my eyes. The two of them danced in a mad war scene from some sort of play but it was real. All of it was real! The beast screamed and attempted to head for me in which I blinded myself for the worst. The human screamed while positioning something high into the air. I heard the behemoth scream out in agony and turned when something plunged deep into its body. It lashed out again at the person defending me and I began to question if this person was Jackson. If so, I recall him having my lantern but the color wasn't right. I saw the person whip the lantern hard at the creature's face. Why was this person doing this? I wanted to scream and tell this person to stop but my voice was aching from me screaming and being weak from feeling sick inside.
Before I knew it, the creature stopped fighting and fled from sight. It flew high amid hitting a few trees along the way. The figure stood long and proud but whoever it was came to me with a stern look hidden by the veil of shadows and the moonlight. I yelped amid covering my eyes but I felt a comforting hand. I glanced at the figure dressed in dark clothing but the right arm was present. I was shocked when I saw it before me. I didn't recall Jackson having any scars or marks on his right arm. I was terrified but the soul before me comforted me. I felt the comforting hand slip away from my hand and my ankle was set free. I didn't know how it felt but the person was there to comfort me. I was to remain still as stone as whoever this person did it. I watched those delicate hands remove the lacing and remove my boot. A click of the tongue came out and whoever this person was shook his or her head. I watched as this figure pulled my leg and glanced at my ankle. I winced slightly but a hand comforted me through the pain.
"What're you doing?" I was a little scared when seeing what I assumed was a straight but slightly curved bone placed behind my ankle. A few more were placed around my ankle and a long strip of cabbage fabric was tied tightly around my ankle. Well, it seemed this was my answer but the solution did hurt. Whoever this person was rather harsh with the approach but it helped. The figure gave me back my boot and was lucky to get it laced back up. I was able to get back on my feet thanks to this random soul not only for saving my life but perhaps healing my ankle. He or she told me not to move a muscle through his or her actions. The person took a breath as I remained still as a statue. I heard something rattle and I froze out of shock like a deer seeing a human or a wolf. This figure chanted while slowly circling around me with the odd rattle following the chant. I was completely bewildered and wondered if this person was from a local village outside Allerdale. Yet, I continued watching this person circle, chant, and rattle over and over. I began to feel entranced and everything began to blur.
But everything then ceased and I saw the figure in front of me. The person was about the same height as me and a comforting hand was there against my cheek. It was the right hand and that hand backed away. I was shocked when it pulled out a gold coin but I was hesitant to take it. But, the samaritan insisted that I take it and leave him or her behind. I turned my head amid limping my way back home. The figure waved me farewell and I did the same with a lamenting smile. Whoever that person was, I hoped to see him or her again. At the same time, I had to give Jackson a little talk.
June 21st, 1829
It was simple to find Jackson since I knew the two of us would go. I searched through the forests where the two of us would play or have our little conversations. I'd even watch Jackson have his fun attempting to climb the trees or even play with the Flintlock. That gun has been with him since he was a young boy. A gift from his father and wished for him to use the gun for good purposes. So far, he's used it to hunt down game meat. He's never used that Flintlock against a human. But if he did, he'd accomplish it for self defense for himself or for others.
But this time, he didn't own it and I was furious with him. "Jackson Edward," my face was red with rage, "What was up with your head when I did it last night, hm?" I found him attempting to climb a tree and I watched him descend rather quickly to the ground. He was a little freaked out when he saw me. I crossed my arms as my little face continued to turn deep scarlet red like an English poppy, "Well~? Are you going to tell me where you went last night?" "Lassie, I can explain," he rose from the ground but noticed my limping ankle, "What the heck happened to you?" I didn't dare answer that question and gave him an aggressive shimmer within my amber eyes. "Okay! Okay! Calm down! You're like some sort of mad demon that just came out of Hell." He held his hands out as if surrendering to me, "All I can say is that something or someone was snooping around." My rage turned to shock and confusion, "I'm sorry but excuse me?"
With that, he began to explain what happened to him that night when I went inside the clubhouse. While he was waiting for me, he felt something or someone was watching his every move. He felt uneasy and wished for me to chicken out and try again another day. But, since I wasn't able to understand or hear him, he bolted, leaving me to fight against the beast I saw last night. But, there was a motive. He wished for me to remain safe while he snatched his Flintlock to protect me. Fear took over him that night while fear conquered me as well. I never thought that Jack was going to retrieve his gun just to fight back. He didn't think that last night was going to be intense with the sensation. The sensation in which he felt like something or someone was watching him besides the aura Mr. Peckerton's ghost left behind.
I pondered and began thinking about that person that gave me the strange splint and fended off the beast. I wanted to say that it was him or her to Jackson but I didn't know if the concept was correct. What if it wasn't that person and something or someone else? The first thing that came to my mind was the police. They'd go after anyone that didn't want to follow the law. Yet, I wasn't so sure. I was confused and began thinking about Mr. Peckerton's ghost and that beast. Were those two beings connected? And so, who was this 'he'? I didn't get it to connect and my mind was being impaired. Did that birdlike beast chase Jackson away? Yet, would he be able to see it? I was able to see the beast yet I just didn't know who or what it was. I didn't read many fairy tales since Mother wouldn't allow me. She saw me attempt to peek at them but would place them the moment I try reading the books. After that, she told me that I wasn't ready for such scary things. Now, years later, she was right. The world was a scary place. I began to crumple just from the fear last night and Jackson noticed. I felt him beside me and asked me what I saw. For now, I knew it was wrong but I had no choice, I lied to him. I lied, saying that I had a nightmare about Mr. Peckerton getting under my skin and scaring me. Yet, the strange thing was that he didn't laugh out loud and call me a child. Instead, he embraced me tightly and those words would echo through my mind and body.
"Laura, dear lassie, it's alright. I'm here. There's no need to be afraid anymore. I'll be there for you. Just like how I first met you. I'll be there to comfort you, dear little lassie." How those strong arms warmed me and I placed my face into his chest. I felt him pet the back of my hair and let the long strands of my blood red and sunset orange hair fall against my back from the small black ribbon that held it together. I brought myself closer to him and felt safe in his arms. "It's okay. Mr. Peckerton's ghost won't come for a blood red haired lassie like you. You're too tough for him." A warm chuckle came from his throat, "I'll be there to keep the cold away from your little body. I'll be the kerchief to dry your tears." Those words continued to echo through my mind and I felt little again. How those years came back to me when I first met Jack. How I was nothing but starving for food and Jack found me almost ready to collapse. How he served me part of his hunt and the meat was more than enough to keep me going. I felt one of his hands against my waist and I did the same. I felt safe with him. Jackson, I shall do the same to you. I'll be your shelter and flame. I'll be your food and wine. I'll be the kerchief that'll dry your tears of either joy or lament.
I felt myself depart from Jackson who smiled warmly. The luck and fortune this Irishman owned was madness. I felt extremely weak against him but there were so many other questions that were unsolved. Perhaps Jackson could at least give me some details or even I'd let him write a letter to his grandfather about this strange bird creature I met or the figure that did the dance, chant, and rattle against me. If so, I'd trust Jackson and his family to be there for me. Oh Mother, if you were here to watch me now with this man. I wish you'd give me a chance to be with him. Please, trust him and the bloodline he owns proudly. Please, trust your only daughter's soul. I love you, Mother, and I hope to see you someday…
June 25th, 1829
A few days have passed since my dear Jackson made the promise to me. Well, almost. I ran off again due to my itching curiosity. I was quite the investigating type of girl and that birdlike creature couldn't stop nagging my mind. How it ached and made me sore on the inside. I had to find it before someone else did. The creature, if I recall, was out of Western Allerdale's borders and I got lucky that none of the high ranked townsfolk didn't bother to even question a commoner coming to their territory as I called it. I carried the map inside the journal Jackson gave to me on my eleventh birthday and scanned the map that he created when first reaching here. I puckered my light carnation lips and closed it with the horse slowing to a halt, "Nothing…" I hopped off while letting the stallion I borrowed from the Evergreen family farm had a little time to nibble on the summer grass. I furrowed my brow amid continuing to search for the creature, "Of all things…Just where are you?" It had to be here! It had to be around here! I continued searching as the summer heat continued to be a stain of annoyance. It's only been a few days and the summer heat was nothing but blazing. How I wished to cool myself in the Wisping Forests' rivers. But, they'd have to wait. I had to find that creature.
"What about you?" I came close to the stallion and petted its nose, "Where do you think we should adventure just to find it, hm?" It snorted while bobbing its head a few times and I shook my head, "Nothing in mind, hm? Guess not." I opened the book again but noticed something on the ground. Something shiny to be more precise and it felt wet against my fingertips. But when I glanced at it, I noticed that the strange liquid wasn't normal. It was like a green color but smelled metallic like human or animal blood. I gave off a disgusted reaction and shook it off, "Gross…" The stallion whinnied as if afraid of something but I was quick to settle the poor animal's mind, "It's okay. I'm here. Hush now." Both the horse and I were onto something but what? I heard another horse nearby and my horse whinnied back in return. "What's up with you?" I rubbed my hand against my stallion's nose, "It's okay." I glanced over and saw a figure riding a stallion of his or her own. While mine was a rather golden hue, the person's stallion was a mix of ginger and white. I was fascinated by the colors but something else got my attention. What shocked me was the right arm being exposed under the warm sun. I wasn't able to see the person hiding under the dark clothing and grew a little scared. The two of us kept our distance but my eyes remained wide in shock.
"Who are you?" I was first to question the figure but he or she didn't respond. Instead, he or she tilted his or her head. An emerald eye shimmered within the summer sun but the scarf hid the lower face. I was able to see a peek of tousled hair but I didn't know what color. From the right arm, bronze skin was present but there were a set of marks that represented some sort of vine formation and symbol upon the upper arm. It looked like a simplified mark of a goat or ram's head and I was rather confused, "Let me ask again: Who are you?" The person didn't respond but got off the mixed colored horse. I heard a little rattle by the waist within the long drapes of a ragged edge cloak. I saw not a single shoe on the person's feet and I was alarmed that this person lived with so many scars. For a moment, I assumed this person owned shoes but they broke over time. "Are you looking for something? Can you understand me?" I was a little scared since Jackson wasn't present. The right hand pointed at my left foot and I peered at my foot, "Oh, you want my foot? It's feeling better now. See?" I hopped on it a few times but stopped when a shot of pain came over me. The emerald eye widened and the figure came close. I gasped amid backing away, "No no! Really, it's okay. Your makeshift support did well but I got better thanks to a doctor and a friend." The figure shook its head and forced me to sit beside my stallion. His or her hands were gentle and quick again when removing it. The support I was given was smaller than the makeshift one he or she gave me. The person shook his or her head as if unsatisfied and removed it from my ankle. He or she placed a finger against my lips as if telling me to stay quiet but I didn't remain quiet, "You didn't answer my question: Who are you? What're you doing here?"
The emerald eye shimmered in annoyance and I remained silent through the procedure. Yet, he or she paused to glance around as if something was wrong. I watched that emerald eye narrow from time to time just from the slightest sound or twitch nature offered. He or she even chanted while creating the support for my ankle. I was amazed by his or her work but grew alarmed when the noises nature had to offer made him or her glance away from the procedure. "Is something wrong?" I was worried but the finger went back onto my lips. That head of his or hers bolted along with that body when hearing the sound of cawing. I swallowed a lump as the fingers grew swiftly and tightly around the new support and I was back on my feet again. I grew nervous, very nervous indeed, when rising from the ground with my boot now back on my foot. "What's going on?" I heard my trepid voice tremble, "Is something the matter?" The cawing of birds returned and I saw a few black birds looking at us. I was pushed behind and I saw him or her slowly pull out what looked like a knife. The bend it owned was strong but the edge remained clean and sharp. I was scared as I made my way to my feet and to my horse but I felt the left hand come out from under his or her cloak and I was quite surprised not to find a single scar or mark. It was pure and clean compared to the right. Why was his or her arm like that? Not to mention, was something out there?
The emerald eye shimmered out of rage as the horses began whinnying out of fear. He or she glanced at the bridle and I blinked, seeing them being torn to shreds and the stallions ran away. "No!" I screamed and attempted to sprint but the figure stopped me. I watched in shock when one of the stallions was taken out quickly by something that looked like a giant bird. It screamed out in terror and I ducked to hide the horrendous scene from my eyes. The second one attempted to flee but the beast was quick to kill it as well. I attempted to scream but the fear took over me. I didn't wish to see the sight since it reminded me of the horrendous sight of Mr. Peckerton's ghost dying and rotting to nothing. I backed up as he or she did as well.
I heard a breath come out from the figure and I watched as the rattle came back into play. He or she rattled it a few times as if into some sort of rhythm before ceasing it with the rattle ceasing into silence. The beast glanced at the two of us and it growled while becoming interested in us. It screeched as the figure did as well, heading into the fight once again. Oh God! It was that behemoth again! No no no! I watched the scene continue to unfold and that figure was getting beat by the creature. No no no! I watched the creature become stronger with each strike and I feared for the person's life. I didn't know why but I began to clutch onto something that was close to my chest. I pulled it out and saw a little stone wrapped around my neck. I wondered if that was always there but I stopped and saw the figure get tossed back to a tree. A large crack came from his or her body and the knife landed on the ground. I glanced at the creature slowly making its way towards him or her with that mad smile against its face. I saw the source where the green liquid came from and it was from that creature's body now covered in knife wounds. I rushed towards the figure who found me a few days ago and begged for him or her to wake up. I was desperate to flee but something told me to not just stare and watch.
"Dear child…Are you going to watch?" The voice suddenly came to my head and I froze in shock. "Dear child…Are you going to pick up the knife?" I glanced at the knife the person dropped and was hesitant to pick it up. "Dear child…Do it. Set me free." The creature came closer as its wings began to spread widely and my hand was quick to snatch it. I felt a burning sensation against my hand and I screamed out in agony. I felt my left hand open while my right hand had no control over the knife. I felt my right hand lacerate my left and the smell of my own blood. I screamed and begged for the pain to cease at once as my left hand stained whatever was around my neck deep red. I heard the creature scream as my own body began to feel sick inside. No no no! Please, dear merciless Death! I don't want to die! Please! I wish to live!
A light suddenly came from my chest--No! My left hand and it burned my chest. This hot violet and black light quickly came to fruition and I was quick to relinquish it from my bosom. Something came out of it and it screamed out violently not in pain but in rage. I was terrified when a humanoid figure came out but held cat legs and ears. A long tail black as pitch curled out and formed a shadowy wisp at the end. I was horrified when seeing it when those undead eyes turned to me. A mouth deep violet and pink grinned into a malicious smile, "Yes~" I wasn't able to see what this creature looked like due the long wisps of black smoke as it lowered its body on four legs. It hisses loudly in rage when it charged towards the beast and began ripping at some of the wounds. The beast, in return, began to fight back against this strange wispy creature that resembled a cat but also a human. I was frightened senseless as I kept my eyes on them but noticed something coming out of the birdlike creature's body. Were those…Vines? No no! I rubbed my eyes and saw a few attempting to attach themselves onto the cat-human creature. The more they collided with each other, the more I began seeing some sort of heart-like structure. I screamed at the cat creature, "Aim for the chest! There's something on its chest!" It glanced at me but the birdlike beast gained the upper hand. For a strange reason, I felt strangely exhausted when the cat creature was knocked back. How it screamed and began to play a little onslaught of thrashings and screams. I begged for the cat creature to set itself free but it was having a hard time. I glanced back at the figure who was starting to wake up and begged for him or her to assist me. I felt weaker with each moment slipping away and continued to beg for the person's assistance. But as time passed with each failed attempt, I glanced back at both of the behemoths and fell on--Wait! I didn't feel the ground against my face!
I was startled when I heard the figure yanked on my arm. I screamed in shock as the figure snatched its knife and began rushing towards both of them. I was shocked to see him or her leap against the trees like a locust on the ground. The knife was positioned right at the chest and the bird behemoth froze in shock. It reeled back as I ordered the cat behemoth to strike from the front. I watched the copper blood spray into the air but with it were drops of black liquid mingled into it. I saw the rose begin to rot away and was left satisfied with the results. The bird behemoth relinquished both the figure and the cat behemoth fell back. We watched the figure descend to the ground and reveal what looked like a boy or girl-like figure surrounded by dead thorny vines and petals, once white but now a dried yellow.
The two of us looked at each other with surprise and nodded when approaching slowly. Each footstep was calculated carefully amid the cat creature I may have brought to life and continued to conceal in the cauldron of shadows. The figure was first to kneel and have a tender hand. The face of this human part bird creature was beautiful. So beautiful just for him or she to be mistaken for royalty. The skin held not a scar or mark that tainted its beauty but was surprised by the strange mask it owned around its eyes. It was like the night sky was shimmering against it and its pale lips were the moon. No signs of any rosiness upon the cheeks but it was breathing. The long hair was sleek and singed of those strange little monochrome birds with shades of green, blue, and purple.
The moment of silence suddenly became shattered when the creature chirped not like how a human would hum a merry tune but like a little bird. Its eyes black as pitch began to glance around. I was still surprised when seeing the curled ram-like horns against its human head. It looked at both of us but chirped in pain. The figure hushed it and let it lay upon his or her lap. He or she cleared their throat and pointed at what looked like a little vial. I was quick to snatch it but he or she snatched it back amidst uncorking the vial. It opened the bird man's mouth to reveal a little fanged smile inside and let it drink the contents. It rattled the rattle again and proceeded to chant out something in a language I didn't know. The birdman creature smiled and went to sleep, dreaming of something beautiful. The figure stood up and that emerald eye looked like it was beaming with joy. I stood up carefully and glanced at him or her under the torn cloak. He or she nodded but I noticed the scarf falling off. For a moment, he or she blushed out of embarrassment. When looking at the scarf, it held some sort of geometric pattern and I recall seeing some in old textbooks from the bookshop. I just didn't know where it came from.
That emerald eye winked at me again and nodded as if thanking me. "Wait!" I called out to the figure who was about ready to leave me, "What about the beast? Tell me! You can't let this creature be out here all alone. The higher ranked souls that live around town will find--" The figure shook his or her head while adjusting the scarf. "Are you sure?" I didn't sound well but the person reassured me with a gentle shimmer in his or her emerald eye. He or she waved me farewell again with a lamenting shimmer in that emerald eye. I did the same as the birdman creature dreamed a little dream. Did it even dream at all? If so, what was it dreaming about? I was quite the curious soul and plucked a feather from the large set of wings. Honestly, it felt so warm and the cat creature liked it too. I thanked it and it did as well with a simple bow. There was no need for it to bow but strangely, it seemed familiar. It did cross my mind for a moment but nothing came to my head. Perhaps what I was seeing was really some sort of dream yet I was wide awake. For now, the feline ferocity smiled that cheeky smile and vanished into my shadow and back to the stone. I paused for a second and examined it. Did I have a connection with this stone? If so, where did it come from? Did Mother give it to me? Never thought I'd say this but it seems Jackson will be having a little fun with me later. I need some more answers and they were driving me mad. Yet, the dead rose…What did it all mean? I shook my head and kicked the remains of it to the wind. I knew later that the rose's seeds would be happy to be planted somewhere far away from here. How I'd loved to see a wonderful garden full of many beautiful flowers. But for now, I needed to have some time with Jackson.
No matter how old or young you are, Death is merciless near or far.