Gene of Isis

that I would be the death of Devere added force to my decision to lie. ‘Yes, I still have it.’

When Molier had his answer he wasted no time in getting me to the ship he’d acquired for the purpose of sailing down the coast to St Jean d’Acre in the Kingdom of Jerusalem.

That is where I now find myself, on the final leg of my journey to Outremer. At St Jean d’Acre, Molier informs me, we shall find all we need to begin our inland journey into the Sinai.

I don’t know what I shall do about the lie I told Molier on Devere’s behalf, but even now I feel my betrayer is keeping pace with our party. Unfortunately, I believe I have not seen the last of Albray Devere, but if he chooses to pursue this quest his death will not be on my conscience.

It seems rather appropriate that this parchment on which I have been recording events since the fall of Montsegur is now coming to an end. A new start is needed, one that complements my new perspective, which is this: never trust or feel for any man in this world more than the god whom I serve. My beliefs and oath shall never be threatened again…that I do vow.

LESSON 18

COERCION

It was five-thirty in the afternoon by the time I had finished reading Lillet’s account and when I noted the hour, I made for the shower to freshen up before my dinner engagement with Molier.

It was plain to see why Albray had not wanted me to read the old document, for it did not exactly paint a sterling picture of his character. I must admit I was a little surprised at the way he had played the holy priestess for sport and I could not help but wonder if he was doing the same to me? Albray had warned that Molier was trying to undermine my regard for my knight and protector, and I hated to admit that a tiny seed of doubt had been planted. And yet, I had seen Albray and Lillet together in the astral realms. Whatever had transpired between them in life had certainly not affected their deep regard for each other in the afterlife. But perhaps in the afterlife all was automatically forgiven.

As I showered, I cursed my lack of spiritual knowledge and reminded myself that I was only getting half of the story as far as Lillet was concerned. Where was the scroll she had penned after this one? Had she had the opportunity to continue her account? I also cursed that I had still only read three-quarters of Ashlee’s account by this stage, and I had yet to discover if Molier was indeed behind the kidnapping of Lady Susan Devere.

While I dried myself, I resolved to keep my dinner engagement short so that I might continue reading Ashlee’s journal before I retired this evening. I was fast running out of time to unravel the truth behind the Star-Fire Temple locked in the mount beneath me. Tomorrow Andre would return with the white powder I suspected would unlock the ancient shrine. As I had yet to master my psychic skills fully, how could I expect to combat evil forces seeking to misuse the mysterious celestial powers that, according to legend, resided in the temple?

Once dressed, I summoned Albray, as I had promised I would prior to facing Molier. When he arrived, my knight observed me for a moment, appearing a little taken aback.

I’ve never seen you wear a dress before…you look beautiful. His compliment was given rather begrudgingly, and I could tell he was perturbed that the occasion was dinner with Molier.

Thank you. I ignored his jealous air. I’m glad you like it. I placed Albray’s stone amongst the belongings in my bag for safekeeping, as I didn’t want to risk carrying the charm into Molier’s presence. Once Albray was summoned he could sense my need of him just as well without it. I’ll be off to dinner now and I don’t plan to be late in returning.

You seem distant, Albray noted. You read Lillet’s story?

The scroll only recorded her movements to where she was sailing with Molier to St Jean d’Acre, I informed him as I retrieved the scroll from my table to return it to Molier. The information seemed to be a blow to Albray.

That explains your reserve this evening.

You’re imagining it. I smiled to reassure him.

I wish I were.

His persistent argument was starting to get on my nerves. You were wrong about Lillet, okay? She was in love with you.

Don’t tell me that! he protested.

I rolled my eyes. What did he want me to say? It’s the truth. I’m sure you had your reasons for toying with her emotions as you did—

I toyed with HER emotions. That IS rich. It was she who toyed with my heart!

I held a hand up in truce. I don’t want to go into this right now . .. I’m going to be late for my business meeting.

Fine! Albray vented his annoyance. Go to Molier.

I turned and headed for the tent flap.

But it will serve you no better than it did Lillet, or me.

Look! I glanced back at him as I exited. Can I count on you this evening, or not?

Of course. Saving damsels in distress is my lot, I’m afraid.

I had to leave before I said something I’d regret. And they say women are irrational in love.

I heard that, Albray called after me.

‘Good,’ I muttered, without looking back.