Seeing Ghosts

The Ghost Army

  I've been studying the book for two weeks already. It tells me how to gain support from the ghosts. But I've yet to actually try it out. I want to know the code. So far, I've got nothing.

I have stayed in my room to study it, only leaving to eat and use the restroom. Sleeping only a few hours each morning as well.

"Eres? Hunny, are you alright? Please come out." I sigh. Closing the book, I tuck it under my mattress and open the door. "Mom, I'm fine, really. Just trying to figure some things out." She nods. "I know you miss him still, but it will be alright. You will learn to cope without him around."

I look away from her, biting my tongue to keep from saying anything. Right now, I definitely do not need her peeling off the scab of his death. I was finally managing to work around it, pretend he was just resting.

"Mom." I turn to see Lysie. "Yes sweetie?" I take the opportunity to back up into my room and shut the door. "Can you help me pick out my clothes for next week?" I hear her walk away.

Closing my eyes a moment, I try to shove everything crowding my mind away. Then, I go over to my bed and take out the book. "Eres." I frown and turn. No one is there.

"Who said that?"

  No one answers. I open the book.

  "Eres. You must hurry and gather your army. Before it's too late."

  I stand and look around my room. "My army? Who are you? How do you know my name?"

  "Eres. Hurry." A shimmer appears beside the book. The pages flip open, showing the Ghost Army. Then, the shimmer is gone.

  I pick up the book. "The ghost army must be summoned by only the most powerful. They will not answer to those that can not prove themselves worthy." I sigh. I guess it's about time I tried to call them.

  "Eres, the Moon Spirits want to speak to you." I hide the book and walk out. Denny is waiting. "Come on." I follow him downstairs. Ellen turns and smiles. "Eres." I nod. "Can I help you?" She nods. "Actually, you can."

  She motions me to sit. "Have you been to the Haunting Tree recently?" I nod. "Yes, why?" She frowns. "There is an old woman that lives in a small hut near the tree. She is constantly guarding it. When Orlea went on watch last night, she did not stop him from examining the tree."

  I frown. "What exactly does that have to do with me?" She walks over. "He went to her hut and found her sitting in a rocker. She was mumbling to herself. Something about Eres, and the end is coming." I nod. "Okay?" She closes her eyes. "Eres, it may be dangerous for you to stay here."

  I smile. "You finally say what you really mean." I stand. "Well, you want me gone. You know that I'm a danger to everyone. Fine. I'll go tonight." I walk up to my room and throw some things into a bag. I put the book back into the box and set it inside as well. Then walk back down.

  "Goodbye then. I'll be going now." I look at each of my family. Then walk out the front door. This really is better anyway. I'm always causing them to be in danger. I can leave, and finish learning the book. Then, when I come up against Ghosters again, I'll be ready to take them on.

  I head out of town. Then, change course slightly and head for the tree.

  "Eres." I see her standing beside the tree. "Come inside. Stay here for a while." I nod.

  I stay a week in her hut. No one tries to come in. I have learned that she isn't a ghost. But she isn't human either. When I asked, she ignored me. I've studied the chapter on the ghost army more. I believe I'm ready now.