And witch bottles were the type of things people used during times of famine, political strife, or feeling under threat (which the Union soldiers were feeling). Union soldiers occupied enemy territory most of the war, and no doubt, felt threatened by and needed to ward off malevolent spirits and energy. They likely occupied Redoubt 9 only during periods of strife, such as Confederate raids, when the Union hold on Williamsburg was at risk. This Calvary was the same regiment held responsible for the burning of the Wren building (College of William and Mary). Records suggested that Redoubt 9 was occupied by the 5th Pennsylvania Cavalry alternately between May 1862 and August 1863.

The fortification was one of 14 mini forts around Fort Magruder, built along a line between the James and York rivers to counter the threat of a Federal assault on Richmond via the Peninsula. Although constructed by Confederates, Union troops occupied it after the Battle of Williamsburg in 1862. What is left of Redoubt 9 now rests in the median of Interstate I-64. They conducted the dig, in partnership with the Virginia Department of Transportation, and it took place before VDOT’s planned interstate widening project.

In 2016, archeologists unearthed a blue bottle filled with nails near the hearth of a Civil War fort, Redoubt 9, which today is known as exits 238 to 242 of I-64 in York County. Thanks very much to Pamela for her time in this. Silk & Steel is out now in ebook, paperback and audiobook.From article at above link: Witch bottle: Given the artifact’s contents and context, William & Mary archaeologists believe this Civil War-era jug is likely a rare ritual item known as a “witch bottle.” Witch bottles served as a kind of talisman to ward off evil spirits. If Lysander can’t save himself, maybe he can save the elf and maybe, just maybe… one stubborn elf will be enough to bring down the queen before she kills them all.ĭuty demands they fight for their people. An elf who sparks a violent, forbidden desire in Lysander. A stubborn, prideful, fool of an elf who doesn’t know when to quit. There’s nothing left to live for, until an elf assassin almost kills him. If the queen doesn’t kill him for his failures, her enemies will.

Trapped in a life he despises, Lysander knows his time is running out. A warrior, a killer, and something else… something Eroan finds himself inexplicably drawn to. Why kill just the queen when he can kill them all? It would be simple, if not for the troubled and alluring prince. Now, captured and forced into the queen’s harem, Eroan sees another opportunity. He would have succeeded if not for her last line of defense: Prince Lysander. Humans have vanished under the rubble of their world and if the queen has her way, elves will be next.Įroan, one of the last elven assassins, lives for one purpose: kill the queen.

The Dragon Queen’s reign is one of darkness and death.

Fool Me Twice by Ariana Nash