“Centuries later, a wandering Druid felt the pull of the stone and found it beneath bones and rubble in the ancient cave. The Druid treasured it. Using the strength and wisdom gained from his long life and the high frequencies imparted through the stone, he became a great teacher. He was known as the Merlin, Mentor of Kings. From his example future kings learned compassion. From the wisdom he shared, they learned the benefits of using the power found in the heart and the cultivated mind over brute force. These kings have passed from history and are the stuff of legend.
“From the line of Druids known as Merlins, the Jewel passed into the hands of the Priestesses on the Isle of Avalon. From there it has passed from one Priestess to another. Over the centuries, Priestesses have found the power of the stone is most potent and benevolent when the one who holds it, hears the signals and passes it quickly to the next chosen guardian. This way the power, focus and violet flame energy of the stone is maintained.”
Lilly leaned forward to stare at the crystal, “What will it do to me, exactly?”
“I can’t say exactly what it will do. We are all different. My experience, over time, has been an increase in psychic powers, knowledge of the subtle planes and those spirits who dwell there. Through the past fifty years, abilities and strengths I never dreamed I would develop have awakened within me. I am grateful for the gift of good health and long life.”
Lilly gave Jolene a puzzled look. “Was it gifted to you as a child?”
Jolene shook her head slightly, “No, ma chere, I received it when I was twenty-six years old. Close to the age you are now.”
Lilly took in a sharp breath, “How old are you now?”
Jolene looked into Lilly’s eyes, “I was seventy-five last Samhain. James, my close companion for the past fifty years, is eighty-two. His close connection to my energetic field has benefited him with good health and long life.”
“The Jewel is now passing to you. Your awareness and power will increase. You will notice your aging ….”
Lilly chest felt it would explode as she interrupted, “I don’t know. How can I possibly be ready to guard something so powerful?”
Jolene put her arm around Lilly’s shoulders, “Since you first came to Panthea’s I have sensed a strong power within you, combined with a delicate sensitivity. While in the trance state of deep meditation, I received a clear message: “It is time to initiate a new priestess as keeper of the crystal.” My guides insist it be given to you. I can’t deny the strength of these messages. After your initiation, the messages became more insistent. The Jewel is gently pulling away from me. I know it is time for you to assume its guardianship.”
Taking Lilly’s hand Jolene spoke in an authoritative voice, “The Jewel of Inanna is now in your keeping. Over time, you will recognize the matrix of energy it carries as it amplifies your own developing power. You will attune to the energy and become aware of the properties which will be unique in its’ relationship with you. Wear it always during ritual, meditation and your daily life. Sleep with it next to your bed.”
Lilly opened her hand and received the crystal. It lay on her open palm, one terminal resting near her wrist, the other end touching the top of her hand beneath her middle finger. She spent long moments looking into the violet depths of its six facets before she slipped the gold chain over her head and exhaled sharply. The crystal landed over her heart and pulsed a gentle energy through her body. Jolene smiled and gently, but decisively whispered, “Your life has begun anew.”
“Lilly,” Jolene began in a firm voice, “I don’t want to harp on this, but I must stress discretion. This powerful magic must not fall into the hands of anyone who would use it unwisely. Legend says it will not respond to any but its chosen guardian. However, I would not like to deal with the person who would dare take it from you.”
“Jolene, who has the jewel incrusted scepter? Does it hold properties similar to the crystal?”
“Some say the scepter is among the treasures stored beneath the Vatican. Others say it is lost. If someone is in possession of it, they are keeping silent. I don’t know if the scepter is more powerful than the stone. I can only imagine the power the two would create together.”
Lilly nodded in understanding as her body thrummed with new energy. “What did you mean, it can be used as a teleportation device?”
Jolene shrugged slightly, “I have never had the need or desire for teleportation. I haven’t a clue how one would use it to teleport. You can explore the abilities it offers you and focus on teleportation if you feel drawn to it. Over time, as you become attuned to the power of the stone it will respond to your wishes.”
“Do the members of Panthea’s coven know about the stone?”
Jolene shook her head slightly, “All have seen it, however, none know of its true power. Only a few have asked questions. I find it better to be discreet and evasive.”
The crystal pulsed between Lilly’s breasts. Within days she noticed her awareness gently expanding as her studies became more clear and easily integrated. Wearing the crystal during meditation brought visions of multiple dimensions, communication with spirits, guardians and ancestors from her Faery lineage. Lilly had to set a timer to bring herself back to third dimension reality.
PART III
The Green Man Band
“I want to be magic. I want to touch the heart of the world and make it smile. I want to be a friend of elves and live in a tree, or under a hill. I want to marry a
