Page 54 of A Keeper of Time

Angus put an arm around Maggie’s shoulders. “Ye did what needed to be done. Seeing it all play out before us showed all of us what truly happened. Ye must have been so frightened.”

“I hate to admit it, but I was. If it hadn’t been for Dylan and Richard I’m no’ sure I would have survived.”

“They were a blessing to ye,” Edna said.

“As were ye.” Maggie’s sad smile broke Edna’s heart. She knew the memory of what happened would always be with Maggie, but she also knew that Maggie was a strong lass and would set it aside and not let it interfere with her life and future as a witch.

Angus reached for Edna but could not touch her. “Why did they have to put this damn wall in me way?” Edna could see his anger and frustration and knew that much of it stemmed from feeling helpless to do anything that would save her. It was out of his hands. He’d always been her protector. Doing nothing was hard to swallow.

“I’ll be with ye soon, love.” Edna blew him a kiss, which put a brief smile on his lips.

Chapter 16

Time passed slowly as they waited for a verdict. All those gathered were restless. Some walked down to the creek, some paced and some gathered in small groups to talk. Edna sat patiently with Angus sitting on the ground just beyond the barrier that had been placed in front of her and Evanore. It comforted her knowing he was right there with her. Not being able to see him or be with him would destroy her.

The doors finally opened and the Council of Witches emerged. Melusina, Mardella and Daire filed out first, followed by the jury. Stoic faces gave no indication of what they had decided. Those gathered around to watch the proceedings were silent. It seemed even the birds in the trees had stopped their singing so that they too could hear what was to be said.

“Angus, nae matter what happens I love ye,” Edna said.

“I will no’ leave ye.” Angus stood, but stubbornly stayed where he was.

Edna noticed Maggie’s eyes open wide with surprise. She followed her gaze and was delighted to see Barnes sneaking from the house and disappearing into the woods behind it. She didn’t see William and wondered if he too had escaped Evanore’s clutches.

Melusina banged her gavel. “We’re about to read the verdict. But first I’d like to say that this has no’ been an easy process. There were many things to be taken into consideration and that is what took so long.”

Everyone was back in their seats and listening attentively to hear what would be said next.

“This was a unanimous decision. Edna Campbell, please stand.”

Edna stood and turned towards the bench.

“Edna we have found that ye were no’ responsible for Brielle’s death, nor did ye manipulate the couples ye brought together. Evanore had nae right to tear them apart as she did.”

Cheers erupted from the crowd, and Edna thought she would faint from relief. She looked straight ahead to where Angus stood and saw him pause from clapping along with the others to wipe tears from his eyes. Melusina held up her hand for quiet.

“Maggie Sinclair.” Edna felt her blood run cold as Melusina called Maggie’s name and everyone turned towards her.

Maggie stood and faced the Council.

“Ye also were no’ responsible for Brielle’s death. ’Twas the direct result of her attacks on ye.”

Maggie’s stiff back and shoulders relaxed. She bowed her head in thanks and then turned to Edna wearing a broad grin.

This long ordeal was over for Edna, Maggie, Angus and the couples.

Evanore didn’t seem surprised to hear any of this. From Edna’s perspective, she knew her sister had her faults. Though she may not have realized to what extent.

“Evanore, please stand.” Melusina motioned for her to rise.

Evanore did as she was directed. Her face and demeanor were somber as if she knew what would be coming.

“Ye have been found guilty of kidnapping Edna Campbell and holding her against her will. This goes against our code of conduct. Yer punishment will be removal of yer powers for a five-year period and banishment to yer home, where ye will stay until further notice.”

“This is me home,” Evanore’s voice cracked with emotion as she pointed to the house behind them.

“Ye must remove it to the place where it belongs. Yer servant Barnes must also be returned to the home he was abducted from. Is that clear?”

“Aye.”