The ancients could still recite the begats. Jael barely remembered hearing the tales told round the fire during the last gathering.

As related in the first book, a man named Jebuel takes his family and journeys north during a devastating dearth (famine) in his homeland. His journey continues until he finds a temporary dwelling place near the Great Sea (Mediterranean). Here he learns to make sails for the great ships, a trade which will pass to the generations.

With Jebuel is his wife Reuel, their four sons and a daughter. Another son is born after they reach the Haven. The first four sons and perhaps the daughter, eventually return to the Holy Land, since it is not permitted for them to marry outside their faith. As related in the first book, the youngest son marries the daughter of a trader, a fellow countryman of Jebuel’s. 

The next generation of “Jebusites,” as they are called in those days, stay in-country and marry among their neighbors. Their ancestors guide them to choose wisely, for the most part, those who willingly renounce any other beliefs and serve the Hebrew God.

The atmosphere of the haven seems rife with mystery. The young men of the family discover anomalies in their environment, somewhat similar to the Bermuda Triangle of our day. Animals and individuals alike enter there and do not always return—it is almost mythical in nature—yet very real. This calls for investigation.

Next: Verani Haven Explored

A mist lay heavy over the blood-strewn battlefield. Until it lifted, the black army would not blow its horns. They could not see the coast nor the shores, but a reverberating sound coursed through them as the sentries sent out the word. It was then that the song was heard. Most among Din Glun’s men could not understand the words, though some did. 

It was the same psalm that William had sung through the halls of Castle Coldthwaite. His men sang it now, their voices echoing out over the valley and through the mist. It rose and echoed upon the surrounding hills and water. In the dales, Solis’ men took it up. Soon the Milosians heard it and those who spoke the language joined in the song. 

The sound of it struck fear in the hearts of the black warriors, but they could not move . . . There was no alternative but to fight. From The Lady of the Haven, Part II, A Gathering of Eagles (All Rights Reserved).