Dark Shadows - A New Beginning

Chapter Twelve

Character Portrait included: Doctor Julia Hoffman

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Late afternoon at Collinwood - and on this day the late afternoon sun shines down on the Collinwood of another year. For the witch Lucifera has used an occult amulet that once belonged to Nicholas Blair.

Utilizing the power of the amulet, she has made a brief six-hour journey back to Collinwood as it existed in the year 1979. 

She has come to this time to learn the secret of Adam Collins, but already her mission has come into potential jeopardy. For someone living on the estate in 1979 has discovered her presence, and an explanation has been demanded...

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"I'll ask you again," Julia Hoffman said in a hard voice. "Who are you and what are you doing here?"

"I'm just a visitor to the estate," Lucifera answered her, trying to sound casual. "I'm here at the behest of David Collins, conducting research."

Julia's expression became even more dangerous. 

"No. That's a lie. You cannot be here at the behest of David Collins. David Collins has been sick with a dangerous fever for nearly a week. You will come to Collinwood with me and see that for yourself - for you are going to answer some questions."

Lucifera felt a rush of anger at this woman's defiance, but knowing how dangerous it was to interfere in the past - she gave into what was being demanded of her. 

She followed Julia to the great house and found it not very different from the Collinwood of her time. The furniture was a little different. 

Julia stepped momentarily into the drawing room, but didn't find any of the family members there.

"Come with me," she ordered Lucifera. 

Lucifera felt another rush of anger, and this time it was some effort to hamper it. It would be so easy for Lucifera to use her magic and teach this woman a lesson she'd never forget.

Julia led her into a bedroom off the upstairs hall where David Collins was lying asleep. His complexion was deathly pale, except for his cheeks which were flushed.

Julia placed her hand on David's forehead.

"He's burning up," she muttered out loud to herself. 

Just then an older woman with a serious, age-lined face came in.

"Oh, Doctor Hoffman!" the woman exclaimed. "I was just searching the house for you. David's father wants a report."

"As a matter of fact, I'd like to see his father," Julia said. "Could you go find him for me, Mrs. Johnson? I'll stay here with David."

"Yes, that probably would be best," Mrs. Johnson agreed.

Then the older woman's curiosity got the better of her. She'd already shot a few glances at Lucifera.

"...and who is this young woman?" Mrs. Johnson asked, looking at Lucifera as though she would study her.

"I intend to find that out," Julia assured her. "That's why I need you to go find Roger, or Quentin. In fact, Quentin would be better. Bring him to me, if you would please. Immediately..."

"Yes, of course," Mrs. Johnson replied dutifully. "You're the doctor."

"No wait," Julia said, remembering her reason for coming to Collinwood. "I'll go and find Quentin myself. Would you sit here with David and this young woman?"

"Certainly," Mrs. Johnson agreed. 

Julia went from the room, and Lucifera wondered if she dare try to run for it.