Shades of Doon by Carey Corp Page A

him experiencing my world first-hand.

    Flanked by the princes and Eòran, Vee and I wound our way through the castle to the appointed meeting spot. When I stepped into the council chamber, eight sets of familiar eyes greeted me. Our little Scooby Gang had grown. Although I hadsome reservations about more people joining our group, I had the feeling we were going to need all the help we could get.
    As well as Fergus and Fiona, Doon’s happy newlyweds, four of the Destined had joined our inner circle. Typically the Destined were called to Doon for love, a soul mate waiting for them on the other side of the Brig o’ Doon. But during the last Centennial a few months ago, an unprecedented number of individuals had been Called from the modern world because the kingdom had need of their skills — something that, if you really pondered it, felt both troubling and reassuring.
    Of the four newcomers in the council room, only Emily had been Called to Doon for love, and unfortunately her soul mate had been the first victim of the zombie fungus. Analisa had been called for her unique-yet-questionable criminal talents. Adam had an extensive background in environmental science, which had proved invaluable in figuring out the nature of the limbus. Oliver Ambrose, seated next to him, was the other scientist — a mechanical engineer, to be exact. And although I didn’t understand what he did, he was crazy smart. Vee referred to him as the Tony Stark of the Destined, but even with his unruly dark hair and manscaped goatee, I failed to see any resemblance to Robert Downey, Jr.
    The final additions to the gang were the oldest Rosetti boy, Giancarlo, who according to Duncan was fearless with a sharp strategic mind, and his little sister, Gabriella.
    As soon as Vee cleared the doorway, Gabby rushed her. “We’re so glad you’re back, Your Highness — I mean, Vee — Veronica.” The force of the hug sent Vee stumbling backward into Jamie, who clasped her arms to keep her from toppling over.
    Mortified, Gabby simultaneously let go and hopped back. She had attached herself as Vee’s lady-in-waiting and doted onher queen with something akin to hero worship. She always reminded me of a puppy, due to her gangly body and unchecked enthusiasm. Gabby tucked a wayward lock of blonde hair behind her ear and smiled sheepishly. “Sorry, Veronica — I mean, Your Highness. Please pardon my behavior.”
    My best friend chuckled self-consciously. “Vee’s fine. And there’s nothing to apologize for.” Placing a hand on Gabby’s back, Vee diplomatically guided her to the table. “Why don’t you take a seat so we can get started?”
    Eòran stood dutifully by the closed door as Vee settled herself at the head with Jamie to her left and me to her right. Duncan sat on my other side. I could smell his fragrance of summer sunshine and fresh leather as his fingers twined with mine under the table. It felt soothing to have him so close.
    An empty chair remained between Gabby and Fiona. Vee nodded to it, but before she could get her question out, the door opened. The oldest Rosetti sister, Sofia, burst into the room. Hair disheveled, cheeks flushed, she stared at our little gang with bright, feverish eyes. “Sorry! I wasn’t going to come, but then . . .” She looked helplessly around the room until her eyes found Fiona, who gave her an encouraging nod. “I thought I might be of use.”
    Glancing between Sofia and Fiona, I sensed some unspoken agreement. Fiona continued to smile, saying, “I asked Sofie to come. Thirteen is an unlucky number for a council and I have a feeling that she has much to contribute.” Fiona tapped her temple, indicating her gift — her sense of the supernatural world. In my experience, if Fiona had a feeling, it would undoubtedly come to pass.
    Vee indicated the empty chair. “Of course. You are most welcome, Sofie.”
    As Sofia took her seat, I noted the change in her eyes, anearly manic determination to engage in her