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"Here There Be Vampires" A Promise City, Arizona Story Hour
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<blockquote data-quote="orchid blossom" data-source="post: 2868621" data-attributes="member: 12815"><p><span style="font-size: 12px">“The Flagstaff Church”</span></p><p>Saturday, May 13, 1882</p><p>(Minerva & Nanuet)</p><p></p><p>The new church building is finally completed and Minerva is preparing to hold her first worship service in the building. Arriving in town on the previous night’s stagecoach was the Greek/Roman Priest Demitrius Theopopulos, who is the chief aide to Bishop Costas Papandraus, the Deputy Administrator of the Greek/Roman Church in the Arizona, New Mexico, Wyoming and Utah Territories. He has come to attend the service and also help with the dedication and consecration of the new building.</p><p></p><p>Minerva and her friends have spent the day moving her belongings into the little yellow house that sits beside the grand new ‘Church Of Olympus’. It is a cozy house, cheerful and inviting in appearance with its simple clean lines and wide porch that beckons the weary to sit for a spell and take cover from the blistering Arizona sun. Minerva stands before her new home dreaming of the days to come. “I will place white wicker rockers on the porch and a little table that will hold a perpetually full pitcher of ice-cold lemonade straight out of my new ice-box. She grins. “That will surely lure them in and make them feel at ease. Oh, it’s such a perfect spot to perch and keep an eye on my flock.” She pictures her new love, Nanuet, and herself sitting on it in the pretty rockers where he will patiently assist her in carding yarn while together they greet their neighbors who stroll by as they go about their evening business.</p><p></p><p>Minerva is confident that they accept and respect her now as their spiritual leader and that they will come to her seeking advice and answers. One of her parishioners had even presented her with a lovely carved plaque, which hung beside the gate announcing in flowery letters that the Pastor, Minerva Garcia Florencia abided here. A burst of happiness erupted from her once more as she imagined her parishioners rushing through the gate of her little white picket fence, causing it to squeak on it’s hinges and slam shut with a satisfying slap as they hurried up the cobblestone walkway to share the news of their upcoming marriages or to excitedly announce the birth of their newest child. They would seek her blessing on such occasions and her wise council and words of comfort on others. She is ready for them and is divinely confident that she will serve them and her gods well.</p><p></p><p>She climbs the steps of the newly white washed porch and enters the parlor. ‘Her parlor’ she thrills at the thought. It is by far the largest room of the house and is dominated by an enormous stone fireplace, which takes up the entire back wall. Upon its mantel sits her treasured statues of the Goddess Minerva and the God, Jupiter.</p><p> </p><p>The room is well lit with 2 windows made of precious glass, another gift from a caring neighbor, she thinks. Luna sits beside one of these, perched upon her cage enjoying the evening breeze as she preens her feathers in contentment. An enormous throw rug covers the wooden plank floor and in the corner opposite Luna’s cage, is nestled a small piano, which one of the more well too do residents of Promise City has donated. Of course Minerva didn’t actually play the piano but it added a nice touch to the room. She could see families gathered around it in camaraderie, caroling and sharing stories during the holidays and after services on Sunday. She was sure that when her friends came to call that maybe Kate or Jake would enjoy tickling its keys.</p><p></p><p>She wanders over to the piano and picks up one of several small tin types in oval frames that sits upon it. She treasures these most of all as they are all that she has left of her family. She sadly remembers the day that she grabbed them from the mantel of her room in Spain before she fled to America.</p><p></p><p>In the portrait she is standing beside a tall imposing man of dark olive complexion. He stands somber and stiff, as was the custom of the time when a portrait was commissioned but she knew that this was not his normal demeanor. And although his lips were unsmiling as he stood for the portrait, he was unable to keep the spark of humor from his eyes. She looks into those dark twinkling eyes that she loved so much and notes that her own eyes hold the same mischievous look much of the time. “Oh ,Papa," she says aloud. "I wish you could be here. You would have loved Nanuet and all of my new friends." She brushes her fingers over the face in the picture. "We could have been free together, you and I, if you only would have listened to me and left with me before it was too late.” She brushes the melancholy away along with the tear in her eye and continues to examine the room.</p><p></p><p>It is a room meant for gatherings and meetings and so is brimming with furniture. Everyone had been so helpful, donating chairs, and couches and bric-a-brac, and although it was more furniture than she needed and gave the room a rather over-crowded appearance, she appreciated the symbolism of it.</p><p></p><p>She slowly walks around the room straightening items here and there and stops to finger one of the pretty little lace doilies, which Ginny had presented to her with such pride. She marvels at the patience and talent in one so young. "There is so much more to the girl than she lets on."</p><p></p><p>She moves to the kitchen where Nanuet finds her lost in thought, gazing out the window into the little yard beyond. “I will plant an herb garden by the steps. Perhaps Kate will be able to help me identify some of the local flora and Nanuet can tell me which plants are medicinal. And I will hang a swing under the sheltering branches of that big mesquite tree over there.” She smiles softly as she imagines the children, her own and others, laughing and screeching in delight as they push themselves higher and higher in an effort to touch the sky as she herself did as a child.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet watches the flicker of emotion cross her lovely face and quietly walks across the floor to wrap his arms around her tiny waist. He nuzzles her neck, taking in the perfume of her, before placing his chin upon the top of her head. “What are you dreaming about my Spanish Flower? You are glowing brighter than the bear star in the heavens tonight.”</p><p></p><p>She sighs in contentment and leans her back into his sturdy frame. “Flowers, I was thinking that I must plant flowers along with the medicinal herbs.” She turns into his embrace her face shining with love and happiness.” Oh, Nanuet, I have never owned a home before, I have this incredible urge to dig and to plant, to shape this land and leave my mark upon it. For the first time in my life I dare to dream and risk putting down roots of my own. It is such a powerful feeling... to belong and to be loved and needed." She says wrapping her arms around his neck and brushing her hands through his hair. “I was picturing our life together. Our friends... our babies... sitting together in our rockers. It could not be more perfect. The gods have truly blessed us Mi Amor.”</p><p></p><p>Nanuet laughs a good natured chuckle before answering. "Well I am not sure about sitting in rockers, I doubt you could sit still for too long, but it all does sound nice. I too spent my entire life moving from one place to another, first in my role with the tribe, then on the hunt. It is nice to have a place to call home and I think we have found our corner of the world, a spot where we can call home." Nanuet takes Minerva's arms in his own and lowers them until only one is by his waist, he then turns to stand next to her placing his arm around her back and gazes out the window with her. "Yes, I think our future is here."</p><p></p><p>They stand together watching the sky grow dim as they dream of the possibilities. As the room grows dark Nanuet's stomach begins to growl in hunger. Minerva laughs and gives him a little poke to the belly. "You are always hungry like a bear. Well we have an ice box full of food. We shall have a feast and an early bed time. I must get up early tomorrow for the church dedication and to meet with the bishop."</p><p></p><p>Nanuet smiles at Minerva's light hearted jest. He rubs his noisy stomach as he replies. "Feast and early bed it is. Early bed for you anyways, I will find something to occupy my time until my reverie. I will stay in your company until you are asleep though, that much I promise."</p><p></p><p>Minerva instructs Nanuet to set a fire in her new fireplace while she puts together a picnic from the bounty of food that her neighbors have left in her new ice box. She returns to the parlor with a large tray of food and a bottle of wine. The contented couple spends a quiet evening stretched out on the floor in front of the cozy fire dreaming of their future together and making small talk while they drink wine and feed one another tidbits of food.</p><p></p><p>"Would you like to have children someday? Mi Amor"</p><p></p><p>Nanuet stares blankly for a few moments and then cocks his head. "To be honest with you, I had never stopped to think about it. I can not see a reason why I would not, but I have worries about my ability to be a parent."</p><p></p><p>Minerva looks at him in surprise. "Why would you worry about being a parent? You are a good, honest man with a kind and gentle soul. You will make a wonderful papa."</p><p> </p><p>"Well, I guess I just never took time to think about it. I don't know how to teach someone values or... or even right from wrong. I... I just... well it just made me think for a moment is all. Sure, I would like to have kids someday, who knows, getting settled down and all, the time might be right in the not so distant future" Nanuet says with a wink and a smile.</p><p></p><p>Minerva smiles at him in contentment. I do love children, and making them is not so bad either." she teases. "Perhaps we could practice a bit?" Just as she says this there is a knock on the door. "Now who could that be at this hour?"</p><p></p><p>She stands and attempts to fix her hair and straighten her gown, which is quite wrinkled from lying in front of the fire in Nanuet's embrace all evening. As she crosses to the door she glances in a mirror, where she notes she still looks quite rumpled. She attempts to smooth her unruly hair a bit more but is unsuccessful. She shrugs her shoulders, plasters a polite smile on her face and opens the door to find the Bishop standing on the other side. She exclaims loud enough for Nanuet to hear "Padre! This is a surprise. I did not expect you until the morning."</p><p></p><p>She attempts to block his view of the parlor where her recent activities are quite evident. Nanuet, knowing that the white man would not approve, stands and quickly attempts to straighten his own clothing while hiding the evidence of their picnic. He scurries around the room and hides plates and glasses under cushions and behind the furniture.</p><p></p><p>The Priest Demitrius Theopopulos, who has asked Minerva to call him Trius, stops by to see how she is doing and her opinions on the new church building.</p><p></p><p>Trius says, "I had something I needed to talk to you about prior to the service. I can come back tomorrow morning if that would be preferable."</p><p></p><p>"No that won't be necessary," she says hiding her discomfort and praying that Nanuet has managed to clean the room. "Por favor, come in." she leads him into the parlor. "This is Senor Nanuet, he has been quite helpful today. Can I offer you any refreshment? I have an ice box full of food courtesy of the townspeople. They have all been so supportive," she says as she makes her way to the kitchen and returns with cheese and bread and 3 glasses of wine. She takes a seat on the couch beside Nanuet and opposite the bishop's aide. "Now tell me how I can be of service.”</p><p> </p><p>"Well, first of all Bishop Papandraus apologizes for not being able to be here himself for the dedication of the Church, he had a previous commitment at a Church in Utah. But he is coming to the Arizona Territory right afterwards and asked that you meet him in Flagstaff. I am to volunteer my services here in Promise City until you return."</p><p></p><p>"Si, I can do that. Should I pack a bag? Will it be an overnight visit?" she inquires and offers him the plate of cheese.</p><p></p><p>He replies, "I would suspect so. To get to Flagstaff you'd have to take a stagecoach from either Tombstone or Wilcox."</p><p></p><p>"I will leave on Monday's stage then. Is there anything else that I should know?"</p><p></p><p>"Not that I know of. I believe he wants to spend some time to further train you in clerical skills so you may want to give some thought as to what you might wish to learn."</p><p></p><p>"That is wonderful. Si, I will give it some thought. Gracias Padre. Do you think that the bishop will mind if Senor Nanuet travel's with me? He is a cleric also and it would be safer not to travel alone."</p><p></p><p>He replies, "It probably would be safer for you to have a traveling companion."</p><p></p><p>Minerva stands. "Well, I will see you in the morning then." She escorts him to the door. Burenas Noches." After letting him out she turns to Nanuet and laughs. What did you do with all of the dishes?" He grins and points to the couch. "Well it is a good thing he didn't sit there!" she says as she lifts the cushion and begins to gather up the mess. "Will you come to Flagstaff with me?”</p><p></p><p>"If you wish me to then I will be there. Is this part of normal church protocol?" Nanuet helps Minerva clean up the mess left by their "picnic".</p><p></p><p>"I do not know. I have never been part of a church long enough to find out," she says thinking of her experiences in the north.</p><p></p><p>"I am so happy that you are coming with me," she says as she pulls the wine bottle and glasses out from under the couch. They move to the kitchen where Minerva stacks the plates. "It is late," she says as she wraps her arms around him. "Let us go sleep in the grove."</p><p></p><p>"The grove? Well it is a nice night outside and I always sleep best out of doors. Will the priest come back looking for you? I don't want to be the cause of any trouble; I mean you just got this position recently."</p><p></p><p>Minerva kisses him lightly on the lips. "I do not think that he will be back this evening. It is quite late." Minerva and Nanuet walk under the brilliant night sky to the grove. She is lulled to sleep by the mournful cries of the coyotes in the hills and the soft rustling of the night creatures scampering about in the bushes and trees.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet has a restless night; unable to enter reverie easily. He is concerned that his relationship with Minerva might cause problems with her job as priestess. ‘She is a wise woman and knows what she is getting into,’ he thinks. But I can't help but think that there might be problems.</p><p></p><p>The night passes quietly and he spends most of the time watching Minerva sleep. As soon as dawn comes Nanuet is up and about tending to the grove. He sees Minerva wake and asks if there is anything he can do to help prepare for her sermon.</p><p></p><p>Minerva wakes excited about the day to come and does not notice the weary look or the dark circles about Nanuet's eyes. "No Mi amor, there is nothing to be done. The people have taken care of everything and have not even permitted me entrance to the church yet. I cannot wait to see what they have done. I must go home and prepare myself for services now but I will see you at the church at 7." She kisses him gently and makes her way home in the dim morning light humming 'Nanuet's Song' as she watches Aurora put out the stars one by one.</p><p></p><p>Bong… bong… bong... bong… bong…. bong. Minerva looks out her window at the tall white steeple of her church. She quickens her pace and slips her new green vestment over her head along with the olive leaf pendant and, with deft hands, sits the Olive leaf laurel perfectly on her brow. She turns to the mirror and checks her reflection one last time before, with an enthusiastic bounce in her step; she closes the door to her new home and makes her way to her new church.</p><p></p><p>The large bell strikes for the sixth time, finishing its slow, resonant call to the town just as she reaches the enormous, ornately carved wooden doors of the 'Promise City Church of Olympus'. Luna seems to appear out of nowhere and lands softly on the young priestess’ shoulder. "Good morning my friend." Minerva smiles and taking a deep breath she squares her shoulders and together they enter the back of the church where they are greeted on either side of the door by the towering, oversized vases with ceramic depictions of Jupiter and Minerva which were graciously donated by Senor Gonzales.</p><p></p><p>Dwarfed by the scene before her, she stands in awe, momentarily feeling tiny and insignificant. The sight takes her breath away, and much like a fist connecting with an unsuspecting belly, with a whoosh, the air is forced from her lungs. Her soft “ahhhhhh” echoes around the chamber as she stands with her hands pressed to her stomach, taking in her surroundings. Tears spring unbidden to her eyes as she contemplates the enormity of the accomplishment and what it means to her and the people whom the gods have placed in her charge.</p><p></p><p>This church is truly a work fit for the gods with its high post and beam ceiling, polished, gleaming pews and brightly stained glass windows. The glass is magnificent, depicting the various gods reaching down from the Mount to either reprimand or reward their mortal children for various deeds. The images are brought to life as the sun’s powerful rays cause them to shimmer and glow with a heavenly aura.</p><p></p><p>Humbly, she walks up the isle taking in the splendor of the room. She stops in front of the beautiful mosaic that Senor Jake had commissioned to honor Hermes. She admires the talent of the artist as she examines the lithe muscular form of the god. "This is a work of art. I am sure that it must have taken quite a bit of time to shape and place all those little tiles." She reaches out and traces the winged sandals with her finger as her thoughts turn to the man who would go to such trouble and expense to have such a thing created. She knew what it had cost him to do such a thing. Oh, not in gold and silver, although she suspected that it must have cost him a pretty penny, but spiritually and emotionally it had cost him much, much more... and she smiled as she thought of it and of the man and who he was becoming even though he himself did not yet realize it. It was no coincidence that he was born on the Feast Day of Hermes.</p><p></p><p>Minerva continues to walk silently toward the front of the church absorbing the presence of her gods, her soft slippers gliding gracefully across the polished wooden floor making no sound to disrupt the spirits that now abide here. She reaches the alter, stops and looks up to where the townspeople have hung her tapestry of the ‘12 Powers of Olympus’ in a place of honor behind the altar. She stands proudly and perhaps a bit arrogantly before it and breaks the silence. “I have done as you have commanded.” She says to the figures in the tapestry. “Your will is done. I hope that you are pleased. It was not a simple task to get them to set aside their differences and acknowledge one another as brother and sister. They have worked hard to build you a place of worship worthy of your greatness. Bless them and reward them well for their faithfulness.”</p><p></p><p>She turns from the tapestry and taking up her flute where she has set it upon the alter, sits upon her pillow and softly plays a tune to appease the gods while she waits for the bell to strike 7, calling the town to worship.</p><p></p><p>Nanuet heads to the Lucky Lady and retrieves his best clothes. He washes and then rebraids his long hair, taking extra time to make sure it was done properly. He had a light meal and then headed over to the church just before 7:00.</p><p></p><p>Minerva sits quietly, no longer finding her vestal virgin mantra appropriate, and watches the awed reactions of the congregation as they enter the church. Their reverence is evident in their hushed tones as they whisper to one another, unlike the light easy banter that went on when services were held in the town hall. She notices that Nanuet and most of the rest of her friends have arrived and it is obvious by their expressions that the building is far more impressive than they suspected it would be also. Minerva stands and greets the congregation warmly, thanking them for all of their hard work and calling on the gods to bless their future endeavors before turning the podium over The Bishops aid, Padre Demitrius Theopopulosto.</p><p></p><p>The Priest praises the town for all of their hard work in constructing such a fine structure in a very short period of time. He says that the gods will reward the town for their efforts. He thanks the deities for bringing Minerva to Promise City and says that the people of the town should not attempt to second guess the god's wisdom in doing so.</p><p></p><p>He then launches into Sermon, beginning by referencing the previous month's Festival to Dionysus. He says that the town should continue to honor the gods such. He then speaks of the gods, specifically the Roman deity Saturn, god of the harvest.</p><p></p><p>He tells of how Saturn brought about the Golden Age to Italy and the ancient world, which became a time of peace and happiness among everyone. He then speaks of the great celebration called Saturnalia was held every winter to remember the Golden Age. The theme of the celebration was equality and that no being is better than another. While the celebration was going on, prisoners and slaves were released and wars were postponed. And everyone gave and received gifts.</p><p></p><p>He then makes an analogy to the world of 1882, saying how within the lifetimes of most present the country was torn asunder by war brought about through inequality. The fourteenth amendment to the United States constitution declared equality for those of Ogrish blood. He then says, "But equality to one race has not flowed over to that of other races, where fear and mistrust still exist. I see but one elf sitting here this morning, where there should be many, as they are plentiful in your community. There are also those of the Orcish race who are considered full citizens of this town yet are unwelcomed by many. I urge you to extend the hand of friendship to those who wish to be here with you in this fine community."</p><p></p><p>There is a fair amount of silence during his sermon. He concludes by asking the congregation to stand and sing a song to the gods. While he is doing so several people walk out of the service with looks of disgust on their faces, among them Rebecca King, Bill and Peg Watkins and Derek Avery. Doctor James Eaton also looks annoyed, but remains and sings the song along with his wife Beth and their two sons.</p><p></p><p>The priest then turns the service over to Minerva.</p><p></p><p>Minerva notices Mrs. King, the Watkins and Avery storm out of the church and smirks to herself. ‘The air smells much fresher in here all of a sudden.’</p><p></p><p>"Thank you Padre for those most eloquent words. May the gods will be done." She says closing prayers and commands her flock, in the name of the gods, to go forth and treat their neighbors regardless of race or occupation as family and encourages them to invite the rest of the community to next weeks services. Assuring them that the gods will reward them for doing 'Their' work. She closes the service by sitting on her pillow and softly playing her flute. When all have filed out she meets with the priest and Nanuet. She gets instructions from the priest as to when they should leave, when they should meet with the Bishop and where they should stay when they arrive in Flagstaff.</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet's cheeks redden at the priest's mention of him. He smiles shyly and sits up straight, his eyes wandering to Minerva. He thinks about the things that she has shown him and how she has opened his mind and heart to her Gods.</p><p></p><p>When the service concludes he takes a moment to shake hands with several people as they leave, trying not to say much but to greet everyone who wishes it.</p><p></p><p>He then joins Minerva in a discussion with the Bishop's aid to get further instructions on their journey.</p><p></p><p>The Bishop tells them to travel to either Tombstone or Wilcox and from there to take the train to Flagstaff by way of Scottsdale and Phoenix. He says for them to lock up Minerva's house tight, that he will continue to stay at his room at the Promise City Hotel while he looks after the church.</p><p> </p><p>Nanuet walks Minerva home to assist her in packing. Minerva chats about what is to come and what must be done as they walk. "I do not think that we will be gone long and I would rather not sit in a stuffy stage coach. Why don't we ride our own horses to Tombstone. I haven't ridden Shadow recently and I'm sure he would enjoy the exercise."</p><p> </p><p>"Sounds good to me. I think things have been quiet enough lately that it should be safe. Just means you have to pack light is all," Nanuet finishes with a chuckle. "We should have no trouble finding stabling for them there. They will probably enjoy the ride as much as us."</p><p> </p><p>Minerva and Nanuet finish packing. Nanuet waits while Minerva changes out of her robes and into her riding skirt. She places her hat upon her head and they leave, locking the house up tight. She mounts her horse and turns to Nanuet, "It will be good to get away where we are not known," she says smiling mischievously. She eagerly spurs her horse out of town with Nanuet close on her heels.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="orchid blossom, post: 2868621, member: 12815"] [SIZE=3]“The Flagstaff Church”[/SIZE] Saturday, May 13, 1882 (Minerva & Nanuet) The new church building is finally completed and Minerva is preparing to hold her first worship service in the building. Arriving in town on the previous night’s stagecoach was the Greek/Roman Priest Demitrius Theopopulos, who is the chief aide to Bishop Costas Papandraus, the Deputy Administrator of the Greek/Roman Church in the Arizona, New Mexico, Wyoming and Utah Territories. He has come to attend the service and also help with the dedication and consecration of the new building. Minerva and her friends have spent the day moving her belongings into the little yellow house that sits beside the grand new ‘Church Of Olympus’. It is a cozy house, cheerful and inviting in appearance with its simple clean lines and wide porch that beckons the weary to sit for a spell and take cover from the blistering Arizona sun. Minerva stands before her new home dreaming of the days to come. “I will place white wicker rockers on the porch and a little table that will hold a perpetually full pitcher of ice-cold lemonade straight out of my new ice-box. She grins. “That will surely lure them in and make them feel at ease. Oh, it’s such a perfect spot to perch and keep an eye on my flock.” She pictures her new love, Nanuet, and herself sitting on it in the pretty rockers where he will patiently assist her in carding yarn while together they greet their neighbors who stroll by as they go about their evening business. Minerva is confident that they accept and respect her now as their spiritual leader and that they will come to her seeking advice and answers. One of her parishioners had even presented her with a lovely carved plaque, which hung beside the gate announcing in flowery letters that the Pastor, Minerva Garcia Florencia abided here. A burst of happiness erupted from her once more as she imagined her parishioners rushing through the gate of her little white picket fence, causing it to squeak on it’s hinges and slam shut with a satisfying slap as they hurried up the cobblestone walkway to share the news of their upcoming marriages or to excitedly announce the birth of their newest child. They would seek her blessing on such occasions and her wise council and words of comfort on others. She is ready for them and is divinely confident that she will serve them and her gods well. She climbs the steps of the newly white washed porch and enters the parlor. ‘Her parlor’ she thrills at the thought. It is by far the largest room of the house and is dominated by an enormous stone fireplace, which takes up the entire back wall. Upon its mantel sits her treasured statues of the Goddess Minerva and the God, Jupiter. The room is well lit with 2 windows made of precious glass, another gift from a caring neighbor, she thinks. Luna sits beside one of these, perched upon her cage enjoying the evening breeze as she preens her feathers in contentment. An enormous throw rug covers the wooden plank floor and in the corner opposite Luna’s cage, is nestled a small piano, which one of the more well too do residents of Promise City has donated. Of course Minerva didn’t actually play the piano but it added a nice touch to the room. She could see families gathered around it in camaraderie, caroling and sharing stories during the holidays and after services on Sunday. She was sure that when her friends came to call that maybe Kate or Jake would enjoy tickling its keys. She wanders over to the piano and picks up one of several small tin types in oval frames that sits upon it. She treasures these most of all as they are all that she has left of her family. She sadly remembers the day that she grabbed them from the mantel of her room in Spain before she fled to America. In the portrait she is standing beside a tall imposing man of dark olive complexion. He stands somber and stiff, as was the custom of the time when a portrait was commissioned but she knew that this was not his normal demeanor. And although his lips were unsmiling as he stood for the portrait, he was unable to keep the spark of humor from his eyes. She looks into those dark twinkling eyes that she loved so much and notes that her own eyes hold the same mischievous look much of the time. “Oh ,Papa," she says aloud. "I wish you could be here. You would have loved Nanuet and all of my new friends." She brushes her fingers over the face in the picture. "We could have been free together, you and I, if you only would have listened to me and left with me before it was too late.” She brushes the melancholy away along with the tear in her eye and continues to examine the room. It is a room meant for gatherings and meetings and so is brimming with furniture. Everyone had been so helpful, donating chairs, and couches and bric-a-brac, and although it was more furniture than she needed and gave the room a rather over-crowded appearance, she appreciated the symbolism of it. She slowly walks around the room straightening items here and there and stops to finger one of the pretty little lace doilies, which Ginny had presented to her with such pride. She marvels at the patience and talent in one so young. "There is so much more to the girl than she lets on." She moves to the kitchen where Nanuet finds her lost in thought, gazing out the window into the little yard beyond. “I will plant an herb garden by the steps. Perhaps Kate will be able to help me identify some of the local flora and Nanuet can tell me which plants are medicinal. And I will hang a swing under the sheltering branches of that big mesquite tree over there.” She smiles softly as she imagines the children, her own and others, laughing and screeching in delight as they push themselves higher and higher in an effort to touch the sky as she herself did as a child. Nanuet watches the flicker of emotion cross her lovely face and quietly walks across the floor to wrap his arms around her tiny waist. He nuzzles her neck, taking in the perfume of her, before placing his chin upon the top of her head. “What are you dreaming about my Spanish Flower? You are glowing brighter than the bear star in the heavens tonight.” She sighs in contentment and leans her back into his sturdy frame. “Flowers, I was thinking that I must plant flowers along with the medicinal herbs.” She turns into his embrace her face shining with love and happiness.” Oh, Nanuet, I have never owned a home before, I have this incredible urge to dig and to plant, to shape this land and leave my mark upon it. For the first time in my life I dare to dream and risk putting down roots of my own. It is such a powerful feeling... to belong and to be loved and needed." She says wrapping her arms around his neck and brushing her hands through his hair. “I was picturing our life together. Our friends... our babies... sitting together in our rockers. It could not be more perfect. The gods have truly blessed us Mi Amor.” Nanuet laughs a good natured chuckle before answering. "Well I am not sure about sitting in rockers, I doubt you could sit still for too long, but it all does sound nice. I too spent my entire life moving from one place to another, first in my role with the tribe, then on the hunt. It is nice to have a place to call home and I think we have found our corner of the world, a spot where we can call home." Nanuet takes Minerva's arms in his own and lowers them until only one is by his waist, he then turns to stand next to her placing his arm around her back and gazes out the window with her. "Yes, I think our future is here." They stand together watching the sky grow dim as they dream of the possibilities. As the room grows dark Nanuet's stomach begins to growl in hunger. Minerva laughs and gives him a little poke to the belly. "You are always hungry like a bear. Well we have an ice box full of food. We shall have a feast and an early bed time. I must get up early tomorrow for the church dedication and to meet with the bishop." Nanuet smiles at Minerva's light hearted jest. He rubs his noisy stomach as he replies. "Feast and early bed it is. Early bed for you anyways, I will find something to occupy my time until my reverie. I will stay in your company until you are asleep though, that much I promise." Minerva instructs Nanuet to set a fire in her new fireplace while she puts together a picnic from the bounty of food that her neighbors have left in her new ice box. She returns to the parlor with a large tray of food and a bottle of wine. The contented couple spends a quiet evening stretched out on the floor in front of the cozy fire dreaming of their future together and making small talk while they drink wine and feed one another tidbits of food. "Would you like to have children someday? Mi Amor" Nanuet stares blankly for a few moments and then cocks his head. "To be honest with you, I had never stopped to think about it. I can not see a reason why I would not, but I have worries about my ability to be a parent." Minerva looks at him in surprise. "Why would you worry about being a parent? You are a good, honest man with a kind and gentle soul. You will make a wonderful papa." "Well, I guess I just never took time to think about it. I don't know how to teach someone values or... or even right from wrong. I... I just... well it just made me think for a moment is all. Sure, I would like to have kids someday, who knows, getting settled down and all, the time might be right in the not so distant future" Nanuet says with a wink and a smile. Minerva smiles at him in contentment. I do love children, and making them is not so bad either." she teases. "Perhaps we could practice a bit?" Just as she says this there is a knock on the door. "Now who could that be at this hour?" She stands and attempts to fix her hair and straighten her gown, which is quite wrinkled from lying in front of the fire in Nanuet's embrace all evening. As she crosses to the door she glances in a mirror, where she notes she still looks quite rumpled. She attempts to smooth her unruly hair a bit more but is unsuccessful. She shrugs her shoulders, plasters a polite smile on her face and opens the door to find the Bishop standing on the other side. She exclaims loud enough for Nanuet to hear "Padre! This is a surprise. I did not expect you until the morning." She attempts to block his view of the parlor where her recent activities are quite evident. Nanuet, knowing that the white man would not approve, stands and quickly attempts to straighten his own clothing while hiding the evidence of their picnic. He scurries around the room and hides plates and glasses under cushions and behind the furniture. The Priest Demitrius Theopopulos, who has asked Minerva to call him Trius, stops by to see how she is doing and her opinions on the new church building. Trius says, "I had something I needed to talk to you about prior to the service. I can come back tomorrow morning if that would be preferable." "No that won't be necessary," she says hiding her discomfort and praying that Nanuet has managed to clean the room. "Por favor, come in." she leads him into the parlor. "This is Senor Nanuet, he has been quite helpful today. Can I offer you any refreshment? I have an ice box full of food courtesy of the townspeople. They have all been so supportive," she says as she makes her way to the kitchen and returns with cheese and bread and 3 glasses of wine. She takes a seat on the couch beside Nanuet and opposite the bishop's aide. "Now tell me how I can be of service.” "Well, first of all Bishop Papandraus apologizes for not being able to be here himself for the dedication of the Church, he had a previous commitment at a Church in Utah. But he is coming to the Arizona Territory right afterwards and asked that you meet him in Flagstaff. I am to volunteer my services here in Promise City until you return." "Si, I can do that. Should I pack a bag? Will it be an overnight visit?" she inquires and offers him the plate of cheese. He replies, "I would suspect so. To get to Flagstaff you'd have to take a stagecoach from either Tombstone or Wilcox." "I will leave on Monday's stage then. Is there anything else that I should know?" "Not that I know of. I believe he wants to spend some time to further train you in clerical skills so you may want to give some thought as to what you might wish to learn." "That is wonderful. Si, I will give it some thought. Gracias Padre. Do you think that the bishop will mind if Senor Nanuet travel's with me? He is a cleric also and it would be safer not to travel alone." He replies, "It probably would be safer for you to have a traveling companion." Minerva stands. "Well, I will see you in the morning then." She escorts him to the door. Burenas Noches." After letting him out she turns to Nanuet and laughs. What did you do with all of the dishes?" He grins and points to the couch. "Well it is a good thing he didn't sit there!" she says as she lifts the cushion and begins to gather up the mess. "Will you come to Flagstaff with me?” "If you wish me to then I will be there. Is this part of normal church protocol?" Nanuet helps Minerva clean up the mess left by their "picnic". "I do not know. I have never been part of a church long enough to find out," she says thinking of her experiences in the north. "I am so happy that you are coming with me," she says as she pulls the wine bottle and glasses out from under the couch. They move to the kitchen where Minerva stacks the plates. "It is late," she says as she wraps her arms around him. "Let us go sleep in the grove." "The grove? Well it is a nice night outside and I always sleep best out of doors. Will the priest come back looking for you? I don't want to be the cause of any trouble; I mean you just got this position recently." Minerva kisses him lightly on the lips. "I do not think that he will be back this evening. It is quite late." Minerva and Nanuet walk under the brilliant night sky to the grove. She is lulled to sleep by the mournful cries of the coyotes in the hills and the soft rustling of the night creatures scampering about in the bushes and trees. Nanuet has a restless night; unable to enter reverie easily. He is concerned that his relationship with Minerva might cause problems with her job as priestess. ‘She is a wise woman and knows what she is getting into,’ he thinks. But I can't help but think that there might be problems. The night passes quietly and he spends most of the time watching Minerva sleep. As soon as dawn comes Nanuet is up and about tending to the grove. He sees Minerva wake and asks if there is anything he can do to help prepare for her sermon. Minerva wakes excited about the day to come and does not notice the weary look or the dark circles about Nanuet's eyes. "No Mi amor, there is nothing to be done. The people have taken care of everything and have not even permitted me entrance to the church yet. I cannot wait to see what they have done. I must go home and prepare myself for services now but I will see you at the church at 7." She kisses him gently and makes her way home in the dim morning light humming 'Nanuet's Song' as she watches Aurora put out the stars one by one. Bong… bong… bong... bong… bong…. bong. Minerva looks out her window at the tall white steeple of her church. She quickens her pace and slips her new green vestment over her head along with the olive leaf pendant and, with deft hands, sits the Olive leaf laurel perfectly on her brow. She turns to the mirror and checks her reflection one last time before, with an enthusiastic bounce in her step; she closes the door to her new home and makes her way to her new church. The large bell strikes for the sixth time, finishing its slow, resonant call to the town just as she reaches the enormous, ornately carved wooden doors of the 'Promise City Church of Olympus'. Luna seems to appear out of nowhere and lands softly on the young priestess’ shoulder. "Good morning my friend." Minerva smiles and taking a deep breath she squares her shoulders and together they enter the back of the church where they are greeted on either side of the door by the towering, oversized vases with ceramic depictions of Jupiter and Minerva which were graciously donated by Senor Gonzales. Dwarfed by the scene before her, she stands in awe, momentarily feeling tiny and insignificant. The sight takes her breath away, and much like a fist connecting with an unsuspecting belly, with a whoosh, the air is forced from her lungs. Her soft “ahhhhhh” echoes around the chamber as she stands with her hands pressed to her stomach, taking in her surroundings. Tears spring unbidden to her eyes as she contemplates the enormity of the accomplishment and what it means to her and the people whom the gods have placed in her charge. This church is truly a work fit for the gods with its high post and beam ceiling, polished, gleaming pews and brightly stained glass windows. The glass is magnificent, depicting the various gods reaching down from the Mount to either reprimand or reward their mortal children for various deeds. The images are brought to life as the sun’s powerful rays cause them to shimmer and glow with a heavenly aura. Humbly, she walks up the isle taking in the splendor of the room. She stops in front of the beautiful mosaic that Senor Jake had commissioned to honor Hermes. She admires the talent of the artist as she examines the lithe muscular form of the god. "This is a work of art. I am sure that it must have taken quite a bit of time to shape and place all those little tiles." She reaches out and traces the winged sandals with her finger as her thoughts turn to the man who would go to such trouble and expense to have such a thing created. She knew what it had cost him to do such a thing. Oh, not in gold and silver, although she suspected that it must have cost him a pretty penny, but spiritually and emotionally it had cost him much, much more... and she smiled as she thought of it and of the man and who he was becoming even though he himself did not yet realize it. It was no coincidence that he was born on the Feast Day of Hermes. Minerva continues to walk silently toward the front of the church absorbing the presence of her gods, her soft slippers gliding gracefully across the polished wooden floor making no sound to disrupt the spirits that now abide here. She reaches the alter, stops and looks up to where the townspeople have hung her tapestry of the ‘12 Powers of Olympus’ in a place of honor behind the altar. She stands proudly and perhaps a bit arrogantly before it and breaks the silence. “I have done as you have commanded.” She says to the figures in the tapestry. “Your will is done. I hope that you are pleased. It was not a simple task to get them to set aside their differences and acknowledge one another as brother and sister. They have worked hard to build you a place of worship worthy of your greatness. Bless them and reward them well for their faithfulness.” She turns from the tapestry and taking up her flute where she has set it upon the alter, sits upon her pillow and softly plays a tune to appease the gods while she waits for the bell to strike 7, calling the town to worship. Nanuet heads to the Lucky Lady and retrieves his best clothes. He washes and then rebraids his long hair, taking extra time to make sure it was done properly. He had a light meal and then headed over to the church just before 7:00. Minerva sits quietly, no longer finding her vestal virgin mantra appropriate, and watches the awed reactions of the congregation as they enter the church. Their reverence is evident in their hushed tones as they whisper to one another, unlike the light easy banter that went on when services were held in the town hall. She notices that Nanuet and most of the rest of her friends have arrived and it is obvious by their expressions that the building is far more impressive than they suspected it would be also. Minerva stands and greets the congregation warmly, thanking them for all of their hard work and calling on the gods to bless their future endeavors before turning the podium over The Bishops aid, Padre Demitrius Theopopulosto. The Priest praises the town for all of their hard work in constructing such a fine structure in a very short period of time. He says that the gods will reward the town for their efforts. He thanks the deities for bringing Minerva to Promise City and says that the people of the town should not attempt to second guess the god's wisdom in doing so. He then launches into Sermon, beginning by referencing the previous month's Festival to Dionysus. He says that the town should continue to honor the gods such. He then speaks of the gods, specifically the Roman deity Saturn, god of the harvest. He tells of how Saturn brought about the Golden Age to Italy and the ancient world, which became a time of peace and happiness among everyone. He then speaks of the great celebration called Saturnalia was held every winter to remember the Golden Age. The theme of the celebration was equality and that no being is better than another. While the celebration was going on, prisoners and slaves were released and wars were postponed. And everyone gave and received gifts. He then makes an analogy to the world of 1882, saying how within the lifetimes of most present the country was torn asunder by war brought about through inequality. The fourteenth amendment to the United States constitution declared equality for those of Ogrish blood. He then says, "But equality to one race has not flowed over to that of other races, where fear and mistrust still exist. I see but one elf sitting here this morning, where there should be many, as they are plentiful in your community. There are also those of the Orcish race who are considered full citizens of this town yet are unwelcomed by many. I urge you to extend the hand of friendship to those who wish to be here with you in this fine community." There is a fair amount of silence during his sermon. He concludes by asking the congregation to stand and sing a song to the gods. While he is doing so several people walk out of the service with looks of disgust on their faces, among them Rebecca King, Bill and Peg Watkins and Derek Avery. Doctor James Eaton also looks annoyed, but remains and sings the song along with his wife Beth and their two sons. The priest then turns the service over to Minerva. Minerva notices Mrs. King, the Watkins and Avery storm out of the church and smirks to herself. ‘The air smells much fresher in here all of a sudden.’ "Thank you Padre for those most eloquent words. May the gods will be done." She says closing prayers and commands her flock, in the name of the gods, to go forth and treat their neighbors regardless of race or occupation as family and encourages them to invite the rest of the community to next weeks services. Assuring them that the gods will reward them for doing 'Their' work. She closes the service by sitting on her pillow and softly playing her flute. When all have filed out she meets with the priest and Nanuet. She gets instructions from the priest as to when they should leave, when they should meet with the Bishop and where they should stay when they arrive in Flagstaff. Nanuet's cheeks redden at the priest's mention of him. He smiles shyly and sits up straight, his eyes wandering to Minerva. He thinks about the things that she has shown him and how she has opened his mind and heart to her Gods. When the service concludes he takes a moment to shake hands with several people as they leave, trying not to say much but to greet everyone who wishes it. He then joins Minerva in a discussion with the Bishop's aid to get further instructions on their journey. The Bishop tells them to travel to either Tombstone or Wilcox and from there to take the train to Flagstaff by way of Scottsdale and Phoenix. He says for them to lock up Minerva's house tight, that he will continue to stay at his room at the Promise City Hotel while he looks after the church. Nanuet walks Minerva home to assist her in packing. Minerva chats about what is to come and what must be done as they walk. "I do not think that we will be gone long and I would rather not sit in a stuffy stage coach. Why don't we ride our own horses to Tombstone. I haven't ridden Shadow recently and I'm sure he would enjoy the exercise." "Sounds good to me. I think things have been quiet enough lately that it should be safe. Just means you have to pack light is all," Nanuet finishes with a chuckle. "We should have no trouble finding stabling for them there. They will probably enjoy the ride as much as us." Minerva and Nanuet finish packing. Nanuet waits while Minerva changes out of her robes and into her riding skirt. She places her hat upon her head and they leave, locking the house up tight. She mounts her horse and turns to Nanuet, "It will be good to get away where we are not known," she says smiling mischievously. She eagerly spurs her horse out of town with Nanuet close on her heels. [/QUOTE]
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"Here There Be Vampires" A Promise City, Arizona Story Hour
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