Book II Chapter III

A veteran exorcist - his greatest foe

Two priests, Mund (a) (the elder and wiser of the two) and Reid (b), journey to the Mason’s cottage. Reid is an overly zealous priest who acts on impulse over reason. The Mason family is devout at the chapel and have become close friends with Mund. The priests were going to pray for healing over the family after receiving word that Beonet (c) is ill. On the beginning of their journey a man wearing a black cloak, in a black carriage, driven by a black horse relays a letter to Mund (d). And the letter reads: “By order of the worthy Governor you shall keep away from the Mason family. Dark energy is an illusion we create. We shall not allow these absurdities to overtake our minds, and interaction with the family will only stoke the flame of fear. If you do proceed to help them, you and everyone involved will be imprisoned with swift justice to follow. Our eye is also on you. The following words are separate in it’s beliefs from the worthy Governor…” In summary, Ethel (e), (daughter of Beonet), believes her mother has been possessed by a dark spirit. She pleads with Mund for haste on their journey. In an epiphany, Mund realizes the meaning behind the surprising delivery of tea delivered to him from Beonet just two weeks back. The tea is made with Nooseweed. When used correctly, it creates a bitter yet satisfying herbal taste. However, too much will cause symptoms akin to that of dark possession, and will ultimately lead to death. Mund starts to believe that Beonet wants to end her life and has begun the process of degeneration by means of a lethal dose of the weed (f). He knows the weight of his decision; Beonet will die, but their family will be free from the clutches of the government. In his mind it was a gamble to believe the tea was code. Could it just be a kind gesture, or something he hadn’t even thought about? Was she actually possessed? Regardless, it was time to act. Reid is outraged by Mund’s decision to turn from their destination. “Vile!” He exclaims. Mund can’t allow Reid to reach them. So, acting quickly he checks the now unconscious Reid into a hotel near by. Rain begins to pour. Darkness has overtaken the land. The Mason’s pray ceaselessly for deliverance. Reid has apparitions of a burning manor and a stone wraith while chained to a bed post. Mund begins his journey home.

(a) meaning “protection”
(b) a variant of “reed” meaning “tall grass like plants”
(c) meaning “bent grass” or “bruised reed”
(d) The carriage, driver, and horse in black is part of the postal service. However, it represents death and it’s hearse. The postal service of that area was under strict control of the Governor. A possession of sorts.
(e) meaning “noble”
(f) the Mason family has plenty of Nooseweed spread out in front of their cottage