The Date (Chapter 9)
When Ichabod Crane entered the cabin, he was surprised to hear Katrina humming in the kitchen. She was seated at their small kitchen table waiting for the kettle to boil. There was a plate of freshly made cookies on the counter near the stove.
"Ichabod, I found it quite difficult to sleep before your return . I was anxious to discover the nature of your meeting, Your conversation with Jenny appeared to be quite serious. Whilst waiting I decided to try a recipe in one of the cook books I borrowed from the library the other day. They are called Toll House cookies and they are quite good. The kettle is almost ready, we can have these lovely biscuits and tea whilst you tell me all about the meeting."
Ichabod and Katrina tucked in to enjoy the tea and cookies. Ichabod explained the situation they would face the next day.
"Those Lycanth Demons sound horrific Ichabod", Katrina commented. "Luckily Mr. Rivers seems to have a way to dispatch the creatures."
"Yes, Katrina", Ichabod said, "speaking of Mr. Rivers, he was wondering if you would assist us in lifting the apparent cloaking spell the Demons have placed on the woods. You certainly do not have to do this if you do not wish to".
"Ichabod", Katrina beamed, "I have been hoping you would ask me to aid you in your endeavors against the dark forces. I am thrilled to help."
"Wonderful Katrina, we are meeting tomorrow afternoon in the Archives. Mr. Rivers will instruct you in your role in all of this."
"I will do whatever is necessary to assist you." Katrina paused briefly and added,
"Ichabod did you see Miss Mills this evening?"
"Why yes Katrina", Ichabod said blushing slightly at the mention of Abbie's name.
"Did that meeting go well?" Katrina smiled knowingly.
"Yes, it did." Ichabod said softly.
"I am glad for you Ichabod" Katrina replied, and the warmth of her eyes assured him she meant every word.
Abbie Mills entered her apartment with a happy heart. The man she loved, clearly loved her back and fate seemed to be clearing a path for them to be together. Whatever trials lay ahead of them seemed less ominous now. She truly believed she and Ichabod Crane would overcome any obstacles in their way and lead a blessed life.
Abbie realized how tired she was. Time travel can really make you sleepy, she mused. She headed to the bathroom to ready herself for bed..Perhaps, her luck would hold and she could put off her little 'talk' with Jenny for another night.
Jenny was waiting on the living room couch when Abbie emerged from the bathroom.
"So", Jenny began, mischief apparent in her voice. "What happened when you drove Crane home?"
"Why do I get the suspicion that you kind of know the answer to that?", Abbie smirked
"He told you everything then?"
"Yes, but how did you know?
"Know what Abbie?" Jenny asked, "Anybody could see how you and Crane feel about each other just by spending 10 minutes in a room with you two. It was kind of pathetic really. If you're asking me how I knew about Katrina ending her marriage. Well, I was with her when she bought the Destiny amulets. She explained everything to me. Now do you see why I wanted to speak to you before you ran off with 'Doctor Blue Box'"
"Yeah", Abbie replied, " I just didn't want you to give the Doctor the 3rd degree. I know you Jenny."
"What did you want me to think, Abs? All I knew was my once overly cautious, hard ass sister was getting into a Blue Box with some weird guy who calls himself the Doctor. What would you do?"
" OK Jen", Abbie agreed, "I suppose, when you put it that way, it was a little strange."
"A little?" Jenny explained. "When you first left, I was so mad I took it out on Cameron when he came by. Then I thought about it. I remembered the way you looked at the Doctor. I realized for whatever reason you trusted him implicitly. And I know, getting you to trust someone isn't easy. That's when I figured old Doctor Blue Box couldn't be all that bad after all."
"He's wonderful Jenny", Abbie smiled.
"So are you and Crane real thing now or what?" Jenny teased.
There was a clear sparkle in Abbie's eye when she replied, "Well we're gonna take things kind of slowly. He still has some things to sort out with Katrina. It wouldn't be right to go too fast. But, yeah I guess you could say we're a 'thing' now."
"Oh thank God!" , Jenny teased. "Those looks of longing between you two were nauseating, if you want to know the truth. But seriously Abs, I'm happy for you two. I didn't need any amulets to tell me you guys were meant to be."
Abbie smiled, "Thanks Jen, were we really that bad?
"Girl, if you only knew! So now that you and Crane are on track, where does that leave your Doctor?"
"You know, Jen, the Doctor told me tonight that things would work out between Crane and I. I didn't believe him at the time, but he was right. He's an amazing guy and a wonderful friend."
"So that's all you two are ,'friends'"?
"Yes, Jen. Not that it's really any of your business sister dear, but yeah good friends. You know, if you're good and stop nosing around my love life, I might ask the Doctor if he'd take you on a ride in the TARDIS, it would blow your mind"
" Really? The TARDIS? That's his ship right?"
Abbie replied, "Yeah. I'll let him explain the details to you next time I see him, cause.." Abbie yawned, "I'm really tired right now and we have a big day tomorrow. So goodnight Jen."
"Good night Abs", Jen said mischievously, "Now when you dream of you and Ichy in the sack, you won't feel so guilty,"
Abbie said nothing in response, she just rolled her eyes and hurled one of the sofa pillows at her sister playfully before heading to bed.
The next day everyone was scheduled to meet at the Archives at 1:00 p. m. to solidify their strategy. Jenny had secretly called Ichabod and told him she would bring Katrina to the meeting. This would allow Ichabod to text Abbie and spend some alone time with her before everyone else arrived. Ichabod arrived at the Archives five minutes before Abbie. He had stopped at Starbucks to surprise her with donut holes and her favorite latte. When Abbie arrived she too held a Starbucks bag with the same contents as Ichabod's.
"Well Lieutenant, they do say great minds think alike." Ichabod walked over to greet her with a kiss.
"Actually, I could use all the caffeine I can get today. Those Lycanth Demons Cam sketched are the same ones we looked at in the book the other day. The very ones I had hoped we wouldn't have to deal with."
" True" Ichabod said, as he pulled out Abbie's chair. "But according to Rivers we should easily defeat these creatures."
"Yeah, but he did also say, his visions didn't guarantee an outcome. Was Katrina ok with helping us with this one when you asked her?"
"Yes, she was quite eager to assist us. And Abbie, she asked about us, last night."
"Us? ", Abbie asked with surprise. "You didn't tell her we kissed did you Crane. I mean, I know you said she believes we should be together, but..."
"Not to worry Abbie. She only asked if our meeting went well. I simply told her it had. I do believe however, Katrina would have found it odd if we had not kissed".
"Still, it just kind of feels weird to me. I mean awkward you know?"
"Abbie", Ichabod said taking her hand, "I am blessed to have two amazing women in my life. I love and value you both, but make no mistake, my heart belongs to you Abigail Mills. Katrina knows how I feel and she is truly happy for us. It would pain her to think her presence caused you any type of discomfort."
"I suppose you're right", Abbie sighed. "It's just this thing between us is so new. I have to get used to the fact that I can love you without the guilt." Abbie fixed her beautiful brown eyes on Ichabod and drew him into a long, tender kiss. "You don't know how many times, I've wanted to do that in here with you Ichabod Crane."
"Most certainly, not as frequently as I have Miss Mills." Ichabod returned her kiss with an intensity that made Abbie's heart skip a beat.
"We better quit while we still can.", Abbie said when things were getting a bit heated. "The meeting starts in less than 2 hours."
"Agreed, Abbie. But, do not think I will not be anticipating the kisses we will share once this evening is behind us".
"That is exactly what I want to hear!" Abbie laughed as she squeezed Ichabod's hand .
Around 12:15 the solitude the 2 Witnesses had enjoyed was cut short by the early arrival of Cameron Rivers.
"Oops", Cam said. "Sorry, I thought I'd be the first one here. Didn't mean to spoil your fun."
"You're starting to sound like Jenny, now Cam." Abbie smiled."You didn't spoil anything, don't worry". Ichabod just glared. This Rivers fellow was rubbing him the wrong way.
The Captain was the next to arrive followed by Jenny and Katrina. Cameron's face lit up when Katrina entered. Cam quickly walked over to greet her. "Mrs. Crane, so happy to see you again".
"As am I Mr. Rivers", Katrina smiled warmly. "I am most pleased to assist you as you endeavor to defeat the Demons in the woods."
"We needed the services of a powerful witch and you come highly recommended". Cam nodded toward Jenny.
"Well", Katrina said, "I will certainly do my best." Katrina noticed Abbie standing near Ichabod and went over to the couple.
"Ichabod, would you mind if I had a brief word with Miss Mills?" Abbie looked at Ichabod , a trace of worry clearly on her face.
"Certainly, Katrina," Ichabod said. Squeezing Abbie's hand reassuringly, "I'll leave you two ladies alone."
"Would you mind if we spoke in the hall Miss Mills?"
"Sure, Katrina, but please call me Abbie." The two women walked into the hall just outside the Archives.
"Abbie, I want you to know, I harbor no ill feelings toward you. I have the sense that you are uncomfortable seeing me when you are with Ichabod. Please understand, I am truly happy for the two of you. Your destiny dictates your relationship. You belong together. Today will be the first of what I sincerely hope will be many opportunities to work with you, Ichabod , and your allies. I certainly do not want my presence to cause you discomfort or concern of any type."
"I'm not gonna lie", Abbie confessed. "I did worry about how you would feel when you saw me with Ichabod. I mean it must be hard, Katrina. I realize how much you love him."
"Abbie, I do love Ichabod, I always will, but I cannot fight fate, my dear. Nor would I want to stand in the way of his true happiness. When Ichabod speaks of you there is such a light in his eyes and reverence in his voice. There is no doubt that he belongs with you. Do not think however, that I am some sort of martyr Abbie. I certainly hope to find my own happiness in this century."
"I'm sure you will Katrina", Abbie replied, "and thank you." The two women hugged. Abbie believed in Katrina' s sincerity and hoped one day she would find love again.
"Well, Katrina we better head back in there. I can only imagine what Jenny and Ichabod are thinking."
"Indeed Abbie" Katrina agreed.
Abbie and Katrina reentered the Archives. "Oh good", Cam said cheerfully, "now that you ladies are back. We can fine tune our strategy."
Cam began, "Ok, If Katrina is able to lift their cloaking spell, we'll automatically have an advantage. They will be exposed and all we'll have to do is aim and shoot."
"How many are we dealing with?" Frank asked.
"Lycanth packs are different from wolf packs. The standard wolf pack may have up to fifteen wolves, although most packs average between 6 and 7. There about 30 in the pack we are dealing with. One thing that remains the same is the importance of the Alpha. If we can take out the Alpha, the rest of the pack will fall easily, once the leader is gone."
"How will we know which of these creatures is the Alpha?" Ichabod asked
"Believe me, you'll know" Cam replied. "The Alpha is bigger and more hideous than the others in the pack. He's smarter too. We have to be as precise as possible when aiming for him. The most important thing to remember is to stay as close together as possible. Don't wander off. Lycanths are fast, they can attack with lightening speed. They may not be very bright, but do not make the mistake of underestimating them."
"Mr. Rivers", Ichabod queried. "Your confidence regarding the outcome of this battle appears to have diminished somewhat. Last night I was under the distinct impression that our victory in this was almost certain."
"As I stated last night Mr. Crane", Cam returned, a bit curtly, "My visions do not guarantee an outcome. While I certainly have confidence we can defeat these creatures, I do not want anyone to let their guard down while we're out there tonight. Now I have to go over a few things with Mrs. Crane, if there are no more questions."
Cameron escorted Katrina to a corner of the Archives where he could explain her role in that night's battle. She would not be involved in the actual battle. Her only purpose that night was to attempt to lift the cloaking spell the Lycanths were using. Ichabod went over to discuss a few things with Frank .
Abbie watched as Cameron explained things to Katrina. The two of them seemed quite comfortable with one another. Abbie was intrigued by how well they appeared to be getting along.
"Jenny", Abbie whispered tapping her sister's shoulder. "Is it me, or does Cam seem to have taken a shine to Katrina? I mean, the way he looked at her when she came in, it's almost like..."
"Like he'd known her before or something right?" Jenny replied
"Yeah Jen, what's up with that anyway?"
"Well Cam told me he'd seen Katrina in his visions. It seems that they are gonna be a couple one day. "
"Really? Abbie said" So she's his 'right one'."
"What?"
"Just something I was saying to Crane last night about Cameron's flirting."
"Speaking of Crane, did you two get a chance to have some fun before everyone filed in for the meeting Abbie."
"Well, it was nice to have some alone time, but I told you Jen, we're taking things slowly, remember?"
"OK, Abs, but I'm just saying, how long has it been since you.., I mean how many cold showers can you take?" Unless you and the Doctor were like friends with benefits?".Jenny asked hopefully.
"Just stop it Jen. This conversation is over".
Luckily Ichabod and the Captain joined the sisters just in time.
"So, it looks like we have a little time to kill before we head over to the woods." Frank said. "I'm starved why don't we all head over to Austin's for an early dinner. My treat."
"Your treat?, Jenny teased. "Attention all, don't let this opportunity pass it doesn't happen often, Frank's treating!"
Austin's Tavern was a popular destination for the Sleepy Hollow Police Department. The booths were comfy, the food was good and the beer selection was the best in the area. The wait staff knew all the officers and were always friendly and attentive.
Captain Frank Irving and his guests occupied a quiet table in the back of the tavern. They enjoyed a fine meal and each other's company. The anticipation of the upcoming battle was clearly on everyone's mind. Everyone hoped Cameron's prediction of a relatively easy victory would come true. They all knew, however that when it came to dealing with the forces of evil absolutely anything could happen.
The two Witnesses and their allies arrived in the North Woods just before twilight. Katrina secured in a protective crystal circle, immediately began the incantation to remove the Lycanth cloaking spell. When night fell, the fearsome beasts made their presence known.
The Lycanths were even more horrifying than the illustrations. They were well over 7 feet tall. Their eyes reflected the moon light adding to their menacing appearance. Their fur was mangy and had a terrible stench.
The bullets the group used against them proved quite effective. The Lycanths were being dispatched far more quickly than anyone anticipated. Jenny and Frank took out ten of the beasts.
Cam, ever mindful of Katrina's, safety killed five. One had gotten just a bit too close to the protective circle they had created for Katrina, and Cam was on him so fast it didn't stand a chance. Ichabod had seen the incident and was both impressed and grateful to Cam's skill and quick thinking. Perhaps he had totally misjudged Rivers, he thought.
Ichabod and Abbie had dispatched six of the Demons but, they still had not located the Alpha. Suddenly, Abbie noticed a rustling in the clearing near where she had just killed a Lycanth. Ichabod was busy with another of the beasts so Abbie took a few steps to investigate. There he was, the biggest, most horrifying beast she had ever laid eyes on, the Alpha. She realized she actually had a clean shot, she just needed to get a little closer. Her better judgment reminded her she should wait until Ichabod could help her, but she did not want to miss the opportunity to take the beast out. Abbie moved in until she thought she had him in perfect range, she carefully reached for her gun, lifted it to fire and... was immediately gagged from behind and carried by two strong hairy arms into the clearing and to the Alpha. A second creature grabbed her gun.. How? Abbie wondered. How did I not see them? Abbie's valiant attempts to free herself were useless. The stench of the beast holding her in its grip was nauseating.
"Stop struggling you little bitch", the beast holding Abbie said, startling her.
It's voice was somewhere between a bark and a growl, difficult to understand, but there was no mistaking what he had said.
"Wait a minute", Abbie asked in amazement, "you talk?"
"Not all of us have the ability, just those who are honored to serve our Alpha. He has plans for you Witness". He grinned then and Abbie thought she had never seen anything as menacing, until she faced the Alpha.
Abbie realized she had been set up. These two beasts were apparently immune to the effects of Katrina's spell and had somehow remained cloaked.
"You are a true prize for our Alpha Witness'", the burly beast hissed. "Now face your better." Abbie was shoved over to where the huge , grotesque creature sat.
"So", he uttered smugly, "Grace Abigail Mills in the flesh". Though there was clear menace in the Alpha's voice, it sounded much more human. "I see the wheels turning in that pretty little head of yours, Witness. You must be wondering how creatures you thought were 'not so bright', could pull this off. The arrogance of you humans will be your downfall"
"Actually", Abbie smirked, "I was wondering how an ugly ass eight foot mongrel could put a sentence together. "
"Ah, I see the great Horseman of War knows you quite well. He said you were a fearless, pint sized little spitfire. Our Master Moloch gave me and my beta, the gift of human speech. He certainly did peg you correctly. He knew your nature enough to know you'd fall right into our trap. Your need to prove your bravado and independence were just what we needed to separate you from your precious fellow Witness. That was our intention all along."
"You mean you were willing to sacrifice your whole pack, just to get to me?"
"My pack is honored to make the supreme sacrifice for Lord Moloch and his quest to defeat the forces of Good.. Evil will rule Witness, it's just a matter of time".
Abbie, despite her growing fear, had to ask: "How were you able to remain cloaked? Katrina Crane's spell should have worked on you."
The Alpha laughed, the sound was so chilling, it made Abbie's skin crawl.
"Oh, Witness, did you really believe the great Horseman of War would allow his dear mother to thwart our plans for you? Katrina Crane's witchcraft pales in comparison to her son's. Our cloaking spell prevents anyone from seeing or hearing you, unless we want them to. The good news for you is, you're worth more to our Master alive."
"Although", the Alpha, leered lasciviously, "just because I won't kill you, doesn't mean I won't do other things."
Abbie, realizing the lewd intentions of her captor, tried to break free from the Lycanth's hold.
"Ah where are your witty quips now Abigail? Frightened? I've never been with a human female before." He took one of his nails and traced it along Abbie's jaw line, "It might prove very enjoyable. He licked hip lips "I will try to be gentle, but you know what they say' whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger.' If that's true, you'll be a pint sized powerhouse when I'm through with you my dear. Hey you might even switch sides when you see what I have to offer."
Abbie had nowhere to run. No one could hear her screams. No one could see the danger she was in. Death was one thing, but this! Abbie was officially terrified. That's when her praying began.
Notes: So things are looking bleak for Abbie at the moment. Can you guess how she'll get out of this one? The characters set the tone for this one, they had a lot to say. That means there will be one more chapter to this story. Thank you so very much for taking the time to read and comment on this., I love hearing from you. Your positive feedback continues to inspire me. :-)
