“It’s rather a wild one, that spirit. After its rogue actions, I had to remind it that it’s completely under my command, although I rather have enjoyed the ripple of unease it’s set among Medlock with its sneaking around. I’ve instructed it to take a little trip north to Haywood Farm where it will wait. One signal from me and I’m afraid it might take action.”

Prue’s heart stopped beating. That creature was heading to her farm!

“I want to do this with your cooperation, Prue; it’s so much easier for everyone that way. But you do understand that I need a little insurance, just in case. Of course, the stag-man is simply watching, but things could be quite different.” He held up a small device. “Some technology I’ve been developing to carry long-range signals. A swift turn of the crank will power it up and send a frequency to the stag-man on your farm. It will know what to do.”

Fear and hopelessness swelled inside of Prue.

“Oh, don’t look so alarmed, Prudence. They are quite safe, until I give the word. But I’m sure you understand I need to ensure your cooperation.”

Prue nodded. “Are you sure that going about this by force is the way? Isn’t harnessing ghosts into these machines to get what you want going against everything you are trying to achieve?” she said, hoping that there just might be a glimmer of hope to dissuade him.

“Hannah Woolstenbury and the Governor have prevented research like yours on memory for many years. Think about it – isn’t it in their interest to keep things as they are? A people without history have no ties, no bonds to bring them together, they are no threat. The force we have to use is a sacrifice for the greater good. In every battle there are casualties.”

“Battle?” said Edwin.

“No one is going to give us anything if we ask nicely, Edwin. You’re a second lifer. You of all people should understand. Together we awaken the stag-men at the blood moon, but you won’t need to play any part in the fighting – I wouldn’t ask that of you.”

Prue just couldn’t understand. She looked at Craftsman Primrose, who had always seemed so calm and approachable. Nothing on the outside had reflected what was going on inside.

She glanced at Edwin. “If we help, will you promise me you’ll make it your priority to find a way to bring back my brother?”

Craftsman Primrose put a hand to his chest. “Cross my heart.”

“Then I’ll help.”

“Me too,” said Edwin.

Craftsman Primrose gave a single nod of approval. “Good. Don’t breathe a word to anyone.”

Prue agreed, hoping that the lie didn’t show in her eyes.

Craftsman Primrose escorted them back through the forest to the transport hut. “Return to the house and await my instruction.”