Blood Heritage: Blood Solstice

By Amy Young

For the first twenty years of her life, Ember thought she was just your average, everyday teenage girl. Now a young adult, she has decided that its time to learn the secret of why her father abandoned her before she was even born. What she learns in the process shatters her worldand even make her question her definition of reality.

Spared from a brutal attack by an enigmatic vampire named Arystar, Ember sets out on a strange journey of self-discovery. On the night she could have lost her life, Arystar saved her for a very specific purpose. He believes ember is destined to be a great leader among vampires, one who will save the world for vampires and humans alike. In this new world, myth and legend are realitiesand Ember begins to learn that not all monsters are evil.

Tasked with the seemingly impossible challenge of bringing together the fiercely independent vampires she meets, Ember must find a way to inspire this group to cooperate for the common good. Can she find the common thread to unite a London sewer rat, a Victorian duchess, a Civil War general, a 1920s Chicago mobster, an orphaned Catholic girl, and a headstrong twentieth-century doctorlet alone the newest additions? If they have any hope of survival, they must put their past differences aside to save their future.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Nov 19, 2013
• ISBN: 9781491707487

Amy Young

Amy Young was born in Boston, Massachusetts, and though she trained and practiced as a lawyer, she has always wanted to be an artist. She is the author and illustrator of several picture books including A Unicorn Named Sparkle, A New Friend for Sparkle, and A Unicorn Named Sparkle's First Christmas. She lives in Spring Lake, Michigan, with her husband.

Book preview

Prologue

Join Me

H e moved effortlessly across the open plain without concern. Each stride was as calm as the last, no rush or urgency in them; he had no fear on what the night might hold. The man behind him seemed less confident, his head hung he seemed lost or unsure of the world.

Why so glum, it’s a fine night and it’s ours for the taking? The man looked back causing the other to look up almost instinctively.

I just worry, these two we are going after, the way you described them… The man said and the other stopped.

Why do you fear, they may be strong but so are you, plus you have more experience everything will be fine, trust me. The man placed a hand on his shoulder and gave a smile that shone brighter than the stars overhead. He found comfort and straightened up in his presence giving a firm nod.

The two of them moved on across the open fields coming to a homestead; it was made of stone and wood built sturdy against the harsh winters and rain weather. The man didn’t bother to knock and opened the door and the smell of death hung in the air of the home. They passed the living room and moved down the short hall and stopped, quiet murmuring and laughing was coming from the room next to them. He opened the door and strolled in. A boy and girl sat on a bed of down feathers and straw, both twelve and identical with gold hair and black high lights. The boy had his arms fastened tight around her if his life depended on it, though the glint in his silver eyes said something else entirely.

Gemini I assume, yes? The man asked and they perked up and glanced at each other.

Who are you? The girl said. He smiled with pleasure of their curiosity.

My name is Alucard and this is my second in command Law. We are like you and though you are young I want to offer you a position with me. Alucard said calmly. They looked at him with distaste.

We do not take orders from anyone so be gone before we kill you like we killed are parents. The girl hissed at him and the boy smirked evilly. Alucard looked pained and turned away.

You are sure; it will be worthwhile and will have many opportunities to make people suffer at your hands. Alucard said and glanced at them out of the side of his eyes. They seemed to be reconsidering but glared.

The only one that will suffer is you if you do not leave. The boy said this time and gave a dirty look. Alucard straightened up and clasped his hands together behind his back and looked over at Law and nodded.

He stepped forward and his eyes widened and the twins eyes rolled back in there head shaking, close to screaming. Law stopped and covered his eyes and stumbled back and Alucard gave a smile but not one of kindness but one of cunning and turned to the twins.

As you see I have my ways, join me and become a part of something great. Alucard leaned in with a grin that could be kindness, or warning. Or, you may join your parents. He said resting a pointed nail under the girls jaw near her throat. The twins were clutching each other desperately and nodded as they trembled. Alucard smiled once again but of pleasure and held his arms out to them.

Welcome to the council.

Law tore down the streets as fast as light; the streets of London were a crazy place in general, he was just glad this was the high class section of the city. There were few out at this ungodly hour leaving no one to see, and nothing to get in his way. He turned into an ally and skidded to a stop.

Damn! Law swore and ran a hand over his hair to push it back. This was the worst recruiting mission he had ever done and so far it was only his second. He was looking over the wide alley and up the buildings. This guy he was after was as fast as he was but he shouldn’t be this smart. He walked a little further into the alley and looked carefully and slowly through the shadows and moved without a sound. A little and eerie chuckle came from behind him and he spun around as he was hit and knocked onto his back. He had his hand on the boy’s neck as he tried to bit him and rolled over and pinned the boy down. He was struggling like crazy to get free and for someone his size he was strong.

At last, we have him. Alucard came into the alley and moved in front and squatted down and lifted the boy’s face up by his hair. He let out a soft cry and felt him shaking but still struggled. Zion Blair, the third member. Alucard said and breathed into his face. Zion stopped struggling and as he let his hair go his head flopped on the ground rather hard and went still. The boy was fifteen at most and looked mangy. He was thin, his clothes tattered and worn in. His black hair was greasy and unkempt hanging in his eyes and almost to his jaw in length. His feet were also bare and dirty.

Sir, are you sure about him. He’s wild and has no control of his actions. Law said out of breath as he got up and dusted himself down. Alucard nudged the boy with his foot.

He will soon learn who to respect and that is all I want. He is not much now, but in time he will be useful. Alucard said and started to leave. Law gave Alucard an enquiring look but shrugged and picked the boy up and slung him over his shoulder and followed after Alucard.

They were staying in a hotel in the upper end of London and the way times were it wasn’t uncommon to see high class men and women bring women and children back to their rooms. Law tied the boy’s hands and feet together then to the pipe that lead to the heating stove to the side of the room. It was cast-iron so it should be strong enough to hold him for the next day or so. Law looked back as Alucard lay back and stretched out on his bed and looked away just as quickly.

Sir, what is wrong with him, he is different from others like us? Law said to distracted himself.

His mother abused him for many years, then sold him out for sex and was abuse by others. He is permanently damaged now, cannot be helped. He is a dog basically does not understand but can be made to obey. Alucard said as if stuff like this happened all the time, which it did, but to the severity was something else. He was abused every day of his life in ways that would haunt another’s nightmares. He watched as the boy started to strain in his sleep and tears rolled down his face.

You are sure he cannot understand or feel? Law said now unsure.

Positive, you saw how he acted. Alucard said his eyes were closed and his arms folded behind his head. Law moved away from the boy and sat down on his bed and then the boy snapped awake franticly breathing heavy, and pulled at his restraints and watched then cut into his already damaged skin.

Let him be Law, he will calm down once he is tired. Alucard said sensing Law wanting to calm him. Law looked back at Alucard then lay down and closed his eyes.

Sir, Law opened his eyes again and looked over, What about the girl? He said and Alucard opened his eyes and smiled.

I guess we will just have to wait and see what happens. He said and closed his eyes again still smiling to himself. Law felt himself blush at his smile and rubbed his face into the pillow and closed his eyes again and was soon fast asleep.

The night was late as Alucard and Law waked the cobles stone streets of London once more; the new century of the 1800 hundreds had come only months ago but in a city like this it was hard to notice such a thing. The streets were covered in human waist and trash.

They should rename this place the city of Death. Law said as he covered his noise to the smell.

I could not agree more, you are sure this is the right street? He glanced back.

Yes, from are information this is the right place. Law said in a gasping way trying to only breathe through his mouth but it was just as bad. Haggard women stood in the dark shadows within the allies, their clothes lose on their bodies for easy access to their frail and dirty bodies.

How anyone could even live here is beyond me, but how anyone could be put in the mood with all this around is unfathomable. Law criticized and Alucard chuckled.

You certainly have a way of putting things into perspective my friend. Alucard said and they moved on. They seemed out of place with their well-mannered suits and tail coats they looked ready for a dinner invitation with the queen.

Sir, this is it, Law stopped and Alucard froze in his step and turned to the door. They looked at each other and moved closer and Law knocked. It was quiet but a lock was being released from the door hesitantly and was opened by a young woman with long light gray hair and turquoise high lights. They were wide eyed for only a second then Alucard put on a smile.

Can I help you gentlemen? She spoke in a way that said she was not of the slums.

Is this the residence of a… Isak Williams? Law asked. She raised an eyebrow.

Yes it is. What is your business? She asked again timidly.

May we come in and speak with Isak? Alucard spoke up and smiled at her curiously. She hesitated but opened the door to them.

Isak is not present at the moment, but should return shortly. She said and when they saw her they knew she was of nobility.

My lady, what is someone of your nobility doing in the slums? Alucard said sympathetically. She closed the door and locked it.

I could ask you gentlemen the same thing. She said as she turned back to them and led them to the living room which was a lot finer then some of the other home’s they were sure.

Can I offer you anything? The lady said.

No thank you? They said at the same time and in the same tone of distaste.

Yeah I did not think so. She said as she sat down. She sat straight and proper as any lady of nobility would, her dress was not befitting of her by any means, her skin was white as snow and looked as soft as silk yet she wore rags of a dress.

What is your name if I might ask? Alucard said calmly.

Tara Williams, Isak is my husband for all… intensive purposes. She said in an uncertain way. Her hands were folded over just so on her lap concealing the fact she wore no ring of engagement.

How long have the two of you been together? Alucard asked rather confused.

Over half a year now, he’s been taking care of me since—I cannot go home. Tara said and hung her head looking pained by her memories.

Where is your husband? Law asked a bit short.

Keeping bread on the table, she said in a sad tone and looked at the door. The air was heavy not just with smell but of awkward silence when the door knocked again. Tara was up and went to the door and unlocked it and a tall man with flame red hair ducked in.

Sorry for being so late. He said with a hint of slang on his speech.

We have company. She said quietly and took his coat as he looked over in shock.

Isak Williams, it is nice to meet you at last. Alucard said eagerly as they were both up and walked forward some. As they neared him they realized he was not as tall as he first appeared, in fact he was shorter than the both of them were, but he did have a big ego.

What business do you have here? he said suspiciously.

I want to offer you a job, one that will take you from this dreary place and give you a future. Alucard said in business way. Isak was both confused and shocked. We are aware of what you are and your talent. I believe you could be very useful in my group. Alucard said to reassure him and he was wide eyed.

How, have you been spying on me? he said and his eyes went red.

Spy is a strong word, more like, took an interest in; I want to help you. Alucard said not worried about his temper. Isak was breathing heavy and Tara place a gently hand on his shoulder and he seemed to calm down.

If not for yourself do it for her, does she not deserve a better life than this? Law said and Isak looked at him in surprise then at Tara. He would do anything for her, she looked scared and confused.

What would I have to do? Isak said in a defeated tone.

Some simple jobs and lend me your serves when I need, not too hard. Alucard said with a smile of pleasure again. Isak looked back at Tara.

Would Tara be involved in any of this, I am not going to risk her life for anything. Isak said sternly.

No, she has no talent that I can us, but if she means so much to you I will allow her to follow you. Alucard said uninterested in her and she blinked in shock and insult before turning away, he had just insulted her in her own home and Isak picked up on that to and was trembling with rage.

That is my wife you are addressing, you will treat her with some respect! Isak spoke as a growl rumbled under it and Tara grabbed his arm.

Isak, it is nothing, just calm down. She said and he took in a deep breath and let the tension from his body. He turned to her the two speaking quietly. He had taken her hand gently but she pulled it back but nodded. He sighed and turned back to them.

Then we have a deal? Alucard said glancing over at him, his eyes angled down slightly. The corner of his mouth turned up in a smile. Isak didn’t like the menacing look on his face but what choice did he have.

Aye, Isak said simply. Alucard’s smile widened and met his gaze.

Welcome to the council.

When news of two Americans that met one of Alucard’s needs he didn’t wait to get to Paris where they were seen. Law actually didn’t mind this time, it had been awhile since they had gone anywhere and Law loved Paris it was classy and very beautiful there so he looked forward to it.

The city was lighted nicely as people huddled in their fur coats and walked the streets. This was not the section that the two they were looking for were but it was nice to see it none the less. They worked down toward the edge of the city were the buildings became stingy and out of date and the fashion sense here had hit rock bottom.

I think this is the building sir. Law stopped and Alucard looked up at it. They headed in and Law had a quick conversation with the man that owned the building in French then came back.

He said there on the third floor, room twelve. Law said and they started up. It was quiet for most of the way since it was late till a scream came down the hall.

Stop moving I can’t do anything for you if you don’t stop moving. A man said on the other side of the door loudly.

God damn it! Another man swear loudly and obviously hit something from the crash. They shared a look and Law knocked.

Bugger off! A man called and they were both taken aback.

Bugger? Law said quietly. He grabbed the nob and turned it but it was locked. He stepped back and kicked the door in but found themselves face to face with a pistol.

Get out. He said in a calm but angry tone. He wasn’t shaking and wasn’t intimidated.

We just want to talk, we understand you have come a long way and… oh my. Alucard stopped as the one man was laid up on the bed, his face screwed up in pain and for obvious reason. His right arm was, from the elbow down, gone.

I said get out; don’t think I can’t end yah right here right now. The man said again and took a step closer.

I might be able to help, I have some medical training. Law said putting his hand’s up. The man raised an eyebrow but the other kicked him in the leg causing him to stager and looked over.

Get him in here then! The man said and smacked his head against the wall with a thud. He lowered the gun and stepped aside. He had black hair with white running through it. He didn’t seem to be fairing any better, he was just as messed up as the other man. His gray coat was tattered, near shredded and underneath was his skin, his chest was covered in scars spider webbing all over.

What is your name? Alucard asked to the man as Law began to work on the other man’s arm.

Arystar Stone. He said quietly and looked over at the man on the bed.

You are from America from what I understand—a general? Alucard pressed and Arystar was taken by surprise.

How did you… before he could react, Alucard ran into him and held him up against the wall.

Law step away from him now, Alucard said with a smirk, Law moved away as he said blood covering his hands. The man’s arm was worse now as it dripped blood onto the floor. Arystar became furies.

What are you doing? he said trying to break free.

I want you to work for me; you have great skill in fighting and battle strategy. Do this and I will make sure your man is taken care of. Alucard said quickly.

You intend to black mail me to work for you, I don’t think so. Arystar said and broke free and got his gun up.

You have till three to get out of my sight. He said fiercely. One he started, Two he was ready to shoot.

Arystar! Enough, what choice do we have. The man said. Arystar didn’t lower the gun but looked over at him.

But…

I’m in charge! I’m older and am telling you to stand down; we won’t last long on our own anyway. He said and laid his head back.

Who are you? Alucard said rather irritated by him for taking charge like this.

Jethro Stone, his older brother. He said tiredly and his eyes widened. He looked so different but now that he was looking he saw the resemblance. Same body structure, wide shoulders and slender hips, and both were the same height. They also had the same facile features, high cheek bones, curved eyebrows and pointed chin. The only difference was he had red in his hair against his black. As Alucard observed closer he realized both had the same uniform, gray double breasted coats with gold buttons, but both were in rags. Was this man also a general?

Alucard was considering his options but Arystar beat him to his conclusion.

What would I have to do; I don’t even understand what has happened? He said his confusion was obvious.

We can help you with that all I want from you is your serves. Alucard said holding a series face.

And my brother, you’ll help him? Arystar said again.

Yes, you have my word. Alucard said though clearly was not happy about it. This man Jethro rubbed him the wrong way from the start but if it meant he got his younger brothers serves he would make the compromise. They were able to get the wound covered up and they started out and worked back to where Law and Alucard were staying and called in a doctor who was able to stop the bleeding. They were also given a new change of clothes since both their uniforms were destroyed.

They looked different now that they were both cleaned up in and clean clothes. Alucard smiled proudly, this was the man he had been waiting for so long and now, at long last he had him.

Welcome to the council.

Another new century had just passed a few years ago rolling into 1900 hundreds. The world seemed to flip over and over again as cities were rebuilt and people moved here and there none stop. It was in all this chaos that another potential member was presented to Alucard.

Sir, what would you like to do? Law asked him as he finished his report. He had his legs crossed in his chair elbows rested on the arms fingers laced together and pressed to his lips.

America, again. He said as if it was the dullest place on earth to him. He sighed and let his hands fall to his knees. I will see to it myself; I need you here to keep track of all this. Alucard waved a hand to the empty room.

Are you sure sir, not to be critical but you are not very good with directions. Law said humble and was trying to show worry. Alucard glared at him and straightened up in his chair.

I can handle myself, am not incompetent you best remember that. He said with rage in his eyes. Law trembled and stepped back.

My apologizes sir; I was just concerned for you. I will make sure everything is well organized and ready for your departure. He said in an effort to make up for his last comment and Alucard smiled.

Thank you, you can go now. He waved a hand at him to leave. Law gave a light bow and left as Alucard leaned onto his side and breathed a silent laugh.

The next night he was on his way to America to locate this person, a doctor of great practice and was in New York the busiest state there was in America at the time. The docks were overrun with people huddled in make shift homes of ship containers sitting close to fires of discarded coals and newspapers.

Do the times ever change? He turned his noise up at the ugliest of it all so his eyes were fixed to the buildings that exceeded man’s capabilities. Tall structures made of glass and steal that could touch the heavens were unlike anything before. He made his way further into the city as metal machines dominated the roads along with horse and buggy. He found his way to the street on Laws perfectly written notes and in no time was outside a white building that rose up seven floors and was the length of the street and walked in. Women in white gowns and bonnets with pink aprons followed men in lap coats and suits through the halls. Patients sick and injured lined halls and filled beds throughout the building as he came to a desk on the third floor.

I’m looking for someone, a doctor by the last name of Lily. He said in a business like tone. The lady pointed him down the hall to the last room. A woman stood over a bed writing something down on a clip board and set it in a bin at the end of the bed. He knocked on the door and she turned and came over.

She was taller than most women he had met with then he realized she had on heels. Her brown hair was tied and clipped back.

Can I help you? She asked a bit impatient.

I hope so; you are Dr. Wallace’s apprentices yes? He said and her eyes widened.

Who are you? She said shortly and quietly.

I was a friend of his. All of this is below your intelligence. Alucard said in a distasteful tone. I want to offer you a better job with me, work for me and you will have unlimited resources at your fingertips and can continue to expand on your research. He said keeping his voice low. Her eyebrows rose then dropped. She looked into the room where the man was laid out on the bed.

They have more than enough doctors to handle all of them; as well do any of the doctors truly respect your intelligences? He said and she looked at him with surprise. Work for me and you will never be questions in your line of work. He said encouragingly. She was taken aback.

What’s your name? She asked out of the blue.

Alucard. He said with a light smile. She gave one last thoughtful look back and gave him a stern and confident look.

Zephyr, Zephyr Lily as you already know. She said and offered a hand and he took it gently and smiled.

Welcome to the council.

It was only a few years later when for the first time they found themselves in a sticky situation as the first world war hit. They had to fall behind the radar as not to pull any unnecessary attention to themselves; luckily the area they were in wasn’t as affected by the war so it passed for the most part without any real problems toward them but following the war came some new intelligence.

Chicago… and he worked for… Alucard looked it over in surprises. The mafia? He said and looked back at Law.

Yes, he has shut himself up after his incident with his boss so he has no connections or ties, plus from word that people he had worked with he was the best gun they had. Law said looking over his notes again. Alucard handed the paper back and sighed.

He could be useful. He said in an afterthought sort of way.

Shall I make arrangements? Law said more calmly.

Yes, do that. Alucard said and was up and heading out of the room with Law right behind him. Later that night they were off leaving Arystar and Jethro in charge of the others, which upset the twins most of all but didn’t argue either. They would just take their frustration out the same way they always did.

Chicago, the wind city was more alive than dead even in the rainy weather. Women as thin as poles hung onto men with wide shoulders and bold chests as they flirted their way down the streets. Jazz clubs and bars were to the point of bursting with yet more people somehow managed to squeeze in.

They were now in the quieter section of the city but it was still well off and came to an apartment building. The man they were looking for was on the fifth floor and was toward the middle of the hall. Law knocked on the door and the lock was removed and the door came open and the man had on odd stance about him, if he was hiding something.

Markus Scott? Alucard asked and he tightened up and raised an eyebrow.

Who sent you? he asked very suspiciously indeed.

We sent ourselves, we understand you have been going through a rough time and want to help you out of it. Alucard said with a gentle smile. The man still didn’t seem sure about any of this.

I understand that you just lost your brother that cannot be easy. Law said comfortingly and sympathetically. That seemed to throw him off and he stepped aside and let them in the apartment. He closed the door behind them and followed them in and set a gun on the counter that he had been holding at his side perfectly. The apartment was small and run down. The blinds were all drown so they were in perfect darkness. A slight click went off and a small light grew as Markus light a cigarette taking a deep breath of it. It was an odd sight, but Alucard smiled and got right to it.

How would you like to work for me, you have a real talent that shouldn’t be wasted. Alucard said still standing. Markus smirked.

Yeah a real talent it is to kill another man without letting him know it. He said and leaned against the counter. He was definitely a new breed of human for sure with his causal attitude in a meeting to say the least. He blew the smoke out in a sigh and looked over at them.

Why do you want me? He said curiously.

Because you are the best and you are like us, don’t let your talent go to waste. Alucard said with a smile and shook his head.

I don’t plan to; I plan to us it to kill my boss like he killed my brother. He said with a hidden anger rising to the surface.

But what will you do then? Law asked and the man hung his head.

I don’t think that far ahead. He said simply.

Well we do and you will be lost with nowhere to turn so why not turn to us now so you can have some guidance. Law said as Alucard stepped up and was a foot away from him. Strands of light blue hair hung in his eyes in thought.

Fine, but I want my revenge first then I will join you. Markus said coldly and Alucard smiled.

I’ll give you one week. Alucard said and started to the door. We’ll be back same time same day one week from now. Alucard said and they let themselves out.

The week went by and for the most part both Alucard and Law just enjoyed the down time since they didn’t have many vacations. They set out for Markus apartment and knocked and he seemed to be scrambling for the door. It flew open and he looked worn out.

Did something happen? Alucard said seeing it was obvious.

In a matter of speaking. He said awkwardly and looked back as they came in. A young girl was huddled in a corner and they turned on him.

What happened, is she… Alucard started.

No, my boss kidnapped her and was trying to sell her off when I broke in and killed him and everyone else. She’s in shock and won’t talk or eat she’s not even sleeping. Markus said with concern.

Why didn’t you just kill her, end her suffering? Alucard hissed and Markus was shocked.

She just a girl, I don’t kill kids and I don’t kill women. Markus said right back holding his own.

Law, take care of it. Alucard said and Law moved forward but Markus jumped in front of her.

No I won’t let you touch her. He said trembling. Law looked back at Alucard and he raised an eyebrow.

What is she to you that you would die for her? he criticized. Markus, clearly at a loss for words, turned away. Alucard scoffed.

You fell in love with a child, I swear. He said and shook his head. He had the intention to leave but stopped.

"We’ll bring her with and have Zephyr look at her, if she seems alright she’s yours to deal with but I expected nothing but obedience from you for my charity, we can’t be exposing are world to them like this." Alucard said harshly not looking at him. Markus nodded slowly and looked back at the girl wide eyed and trembling still. Markus helped her up and they started to leave only stopping to place his gun in the small of his back. Markus closed the door behind him as Alucard smiled,

At least you have fine taste in women. he looked the girl up and down considering. His eyes came back up to Markus who seemed irritated by that comment but said nothing.

Welcome to the council.

PART 1

Death is the beginning Of immortality.

—Maximilien Robespierre

CHAPTER 1

One Fine Day

V acation, it’s what everyone looks forward to, a time to get away to forget your worries and lose the weight of stress. That is, when it’s a normal vacation. For Ember this wasn’t an ordinary V.C., this was a hunt, a mystery that for too long had gone unsolved. Her whole life she lived in a rented apartment building with her mother, and for a long time it was a good life, if you cut out the screams from fighting and the bulling she revived on a daily bases, oh and frequent incidences of seeing the dead. Yeah, for the most part it was a good life, but for her it never felt… full.

God, could the streets here be any more confusing, I swear. Ember looked at her map that she bought off one of the venders when she first got into the Dominican Republic. It was the beginning of July here and the temperature was up into the hundred degree mark already. She groaned deep in her throat and pushed on down the over crowded streets of the city.

Ember had been here for three day’s now and still hadn’t found the building she was looking for, and though many of the locals new fairly good English, somehow none of them could point her to the U.S. embassy building. The map also wasn’t helping as it was all in Spanish even though she had asked for one in English a hundred times, she was stuck reading the pictures. I knew I should have taken Spanish class. She said irritably to herself.

She had taken the bus here into the main city with the logic it would be in this area, and was wandering the streets. She was sticking close to the buildings, avoiding the sun at all cost. She read the map again and looked up as she leaned on the cold stone of the building. She was lost. She sighed hopelessly and folded the map up and tucked it into her bag. Her clothes were sticking to her uncomfortable and her hair felt heavy on her hot head. What I wouldn’t give for a small gust of wind. She said dreamily to herself and closed her eyes for a second trying to make her words real.

She was considering looking for a room, but looking at all the shiny buildings, hundreds of feet in the air and lining the beaches there was no way she could afford to stay here. She pushed off the cold stone and kept moving down the street not bothering with the map, either way she was lost and so she could only hope to get so lost she found her way.

So, we have a deal then? A man said his face concealed in shadow as he spoke to another man who also concealed himself. They were in the back of a low end bar yet neither was drinking, they only needed the atmosphere of the place.

Yes, I already transferred the money, so we’re good then? This man had a much softer voice, rather young sounding. I’m happy to supply you with anything your master might need. He went on to say.

Wise choice, he slid a box across the table to him discreetly and the man took it, eyeing it greedily. Wait until you are alone to open that, keep it under the radar. He said again stressing the concern.

Of course, I’ll make sure that my master understands perfectly. He said and there was a flicker of uncertain in the man’s eyes. He calmed himself; it wasn’t unusual for people of his standing to have others run errands for them.

See that he does. He said back leaning back into the shadows. The man gave a nod to him and stood up slipping the box into his coat and departed out the back were most wouldn’t be allowed to enter or exit.

Would you like anything while you wait, the day is still long and… he put a hand up and the man fell silent and stepped away.

I’m fine for now, tend to your customers. He waved him off. He gave a subtly bow and turned away. He relaxed in the darkness of his seat lost in thought, he didn’t know the details of what he had just signed into but what he just gave him was very powerful. He only hoped it was worth it.

It was almost three when Ember at long last had found the embassy building, as grand a structure as an office could be. Then for the next two hours she was in a room with dozens of people chatting on phones going over papers nervously, others yelling to get there way but all they got was a sore throat.

She sat in one of the hard plastic chairs playing a stupid game of solitaire on her iPod. She only looked up when a shadow cast over the screen by a man in a well fitted suit and tie.

Ember Leigh? he said curiously. She nodded and he gestured for her to follow. The back rooms were just as crazy and somehow she realized that perhaps this was why nothing got done. In here. He held a hand to a room and she walked in and sat down in another uncomfortable plastic chair.

So you are looking for records on your father, yes? He looked over at her from across he’s cluttered desk.

Uh, yes, my father had left a trust fund before I was born to my mother but she never did anything with it and signed it over to me. Ember explained though she knew what she was saying was a big fat lie. There had been a trust fund given to her mother and true she didn’t use it but Ember had forged her signature to get access to it. There had been a note as well. It said that he had been traveling here but his name wasn’t in the directories or anything. Ember said calmly. The man sighed and leaned back in his chair rocking it back some.

I’m sorry to tell you this but your father perished, we have a small file of records and passport, but you see we can’t give you this information without a confirmation that you are in fact a direct decedent. He said leaning forward again.

I have the note, and birth certificate on me, is that enough? She said starting to dig into her bag and pulled out the pieces of paper. He looked them over.

Well this writing does match his and the birth certificate is real, but I’m afraid it’s still not enough. Do you have any other way to prove that you knew him? Ember hung her head at that.

I never knew him, that’s why I came looking for him. She said miserable. The man sighed as well and turned in his chair and pulled a file out from the case not taking more than a second, as if knowing in advance she was coming.

Listen, under normal circumstance I would never give this to, but as the dates and writing match I will release it to you. There is nothing of importance in the file, only a name and the record. He said. You also don’t seem like the type that goes around stealing identities so… he handed the file out to her as she took it wide eyed.

I’ll show you out. He said and within minutes she was outside the door of the embassy clutching the file in her hands. At long last she had the answer, her father had been here and now she would at least, with some luck, get an idea of what he was like.

Ember walked back down the streets to get back to the main street which should have been easy, but was soon lost again. It was a little after five now and many of the less busy and back alley stores were closing up. She tried to get directions but none of them seemed to want to answer her, or just didn’t understand her. The sky was a bright orange now as the sun began its decent in the sky and cast the buildings shadows over the street so it almost seemed dark out. She still had three hours or so before real darkness set in but that didn’t make her move any slower.

She started to retrace her steps back to the embassy and hopefully get directions there. Unfortunately when she got there it was closed up, she sighed profoundly and leaned on the glass making a vibrating thumb of a noise. She looked out at the streets and listened, she could hear the traffic but it was all around yet couldn’t find it.

Well this is just perfect. She said annoyed and started down the steps again and stopped on the sidewalk. She looked left then right deciding which way seemed better, she had gone right before and gotten lost so maybe left would be better. She hurried down the street and trying to read the buildings for class instead of business, if she could do that she was sure to find the main street.

On top of everything else she was getting hungry; she had been walking all day and only had a granola bar for breakfast and a small sandwich and water for lunch.

Uh, I can’t take this anymore. Her shoulders sagged with despair, the messenger bag now weighing on her. She sat down on a park bench and let out a pronounced sigh. Her stomach rumbled painfully and she clutched it.

Oh shut up, don’t you think I know? She said to her rumbling belly. She searched in her bag to see if she had anymore granola bars or anything for that matter. She found a small bag of peanuts from the plane and tore into them hungrily and was gone the next minute as she licked the last of the salt and flavor from her fingers. It helped to stop the rumbling but she was still dying for food.

She picked herself up and walked on down the street and finally found a hotel, it wasn’t the biggest or the best hotel there was but it would have to do. She had to spend her money carefully but as she couldn’t find the main road and needed food and a shower and a soft bed she could spend a few bucks to get that for a night.

She forgot how nice a hot shower and a soft bed were and to have a hot meal for a change was also nice. She also took the time and plugged all her appliances in to charge up. She flipped through the TV to see if one, anything was in English, or if anything was on in general. For the next couple hours she found herself watching the weather channel as it was the only one in English and it would get her updated on what was going on.

She chuckled at the forecast, if anyone forecast the weather it was Ember, she had always been able to tell when weather was coming. They were saying that it was likely to rain tonight but she thought otherwise, she didn’t have any headache or migraine of any kind. Tomorrow could be a different story but that would be a wait and see. She turned the TV off and locked the door after putting the do not disturb sign up. Turned the lights off except the bathroom one and let a crack of light shine into the room.

She wasn’t really afraid of the dark but didn’t much like it either with all the things she had seen in it over the years. Even now the shadows seemed to dance and move along the walls as she closed her eyes and slowly drifted to sleep.

The next morning she took another shower to wake up and got on her computer for a little bit checking in with some of her friends back home.

How goes the hunt? One e-mail asked, she grind and replied,

Success! she typed back then typed again. Can’t decide if I should chill out here a little while longer or head home? She sent it and walked over to the small table in her room grabbing some of the breakfast she got from down stairs earlier after her shower and walked back.

You should chill, not much happening on our end anyway. The reply said and she laughed and began to type again.

What time is it there? she asked, here it was right around seven.

Sixish? and she shook her head and typed.

What are you doing up, go to bed fool!!! She replied back.

What’s to say I’m not? the reply said.

I’m shutting down now. She typed with sarcasm that couldn’t be expressed yet she knew they would get it.

K, have fun in the sun. LOL. The replay came.

HA HA, jerks. She said and closed out of the computer and started packing her things up. When she checked out she asked if they had a map that was in English and pointed her to a small hole in the wall concession store. She thanked them and walked over and got a map and several bottles of water and snacks since she probably wouldn’t be staying in a hotel for a day or so.

The weather was nice again, and as she had guessed it hadn’t rained. With her new map she found her way to the main street and from there walked to the beach for the first time. The sand was warm between her toes as she walked to a shade cover and got comfortable with her sketch book. Now that she found out what she wanted she had all the time to just relax.

As the hours passed by more and more people came and went, kids laughing and chasing each other over the sand mounds and the tide of water as it washed in and then back out undamaged. Couples held each other close kissing softly now and then others were near ready to remove the last of their clothes it seemed. A light breeze was helping to keep the heat down but it was still near the hundreds.

Around lunch she pulled out the file with her father’s information in it and ran her hand over the cover, she still hadn’t opened it and a terrible idea came to her making her heart race. She whipped the cover pack and sighed with relief; to think this whole time it could have been empty. Now that it was open she couldn’t tear her eyes from it. She got the first question answer, his name was Dorian. She only wished there would have been more on what he looked like, the coroner report only said that he had been shot in the chest and suffered several other abrasions like those that suggested he got into some kind of fight. It wasn’t much yet, but it felt like her heart had been ripped out. This was her father, a piece of her that was taken away from her.

She shouldn’t feel this way over someone she had never known, for all she knew he could have been a scumbag and was doing drugs. It wasn’t so far-fetched considering the islands reputation. But the way her mother used to talk about him, when she did. He had broken her heart, and she always said he was so beautiful, eyes the color of the moon.

Ember sighed and closed the file and set it next to her pulling her knees to her chin resting on them and wrapping her arms around her legs. The sky was growing gray overhead and a light pain was growing at the back of her head.

Thought so, She whispered to herself. She closed her eyes letting the wind wrap around her cooling her skin off. She only opened them as a rumble rolled in the sky. People began to flee the beach while some other risk takers headed for the waves hoping to catch the swells that came in.

Ember knew she should pack up to but her mind was everywhere but here on the beach, she couldn’t stop thinking about what she had wrote to her friends. She said she didn’t know if she should stay or head on back home, which she knew hadn’t been true. She had never felt the peace this island brought her, as well here she felt like her life was finding its meaning. But what tired her to home was her friends, and though she didn’t get along with her mother she didn’t know if she had the heart to up and leave her like her father. The sky had grown darker and rumbled louder. She took in a deep breath of the ocean and rain in the air and let it out slowly not wanting to let it go.

Slipping on her tee shirt over her bikini top, she grabbed her things and started on her way back into town. By the time she had gotten off the beach and into town it started to drizzle; people scurried away to find cover like cockroaches when a light turned on. Venders closed there stands faster than she could blink. She stood up against a wall waiting for things to calm down, and then proceed on her way to find a place to lie low till the rain passed, only she wouldn’t get that far.

The same man from the other day had finished up the last of his business in town and was starting to get up from the booth again when a rumble came from overhead.

Sounds like it’s going to rain, the man that had waited on him said. He looked over at him and flipped the collar of his coat up and started for the door. Would you like for me to call you a cab sir? The man said and he turned back his eyes looking on with amusement.

No thanks, I get around my own way. He said and stepped out letting the door slam behind him. The sky was dark gray and looked angry about something, a flash light up the sky followed by another rumble. The man licked his teeth and stopped and he reached the back and touched it with his fingers and raised his eyebrows.

Already, he said curiously. He looked down the streets that were now deserted and started on his way. A small smile came to his face as he sighed, Oh well, you have to do what you have to do. He grinned and as the sky lit up in another flash and he was gone.

The rain was getting heavier now so Ember took shelter under a canopy of a store to wait it out, but within several minutes an irritated tap was rapping on the window behind her came. She looked back at a man that was waving her away and her eyes widened and gestured to the falling rain but the man only waved more forcefully and she huffed and left. The street was empty now and the stone under feet was getting slippery now and treaded carefully.

At least the rain wasn’t cold and she didn’t mind too much since she rather liked the rain, but it was still annoying to be shooed off like she was somehow an ann

Honestly, it’s not like anyone is out here except me. She huffed wrapping her arms to her chest tighter. Lighting flashed then rumbled at her as she walked on looking for a place to stay till the rain passed. At last, she found a cover that was part of the sitting area for the beach, ran over, and shook off the water from her hair and arms. She was rather surprised that no one else was here; surely not everyone hatted the rain so much. She looked out over the beach as the waves as surfers road them effortlessly.

Ember sat down making herself comfortable, waiting for the rain to pass. The rain drummed on the roof and wind whistled happily down the streets. Her head was really starting to hurt now as the weather got worse. If only that had been the worse of her problems as a group of guy’s ran under the cover as well and eyed her greedily.

CHAPTER 2

This Man is My Hero?

E mber looked over her shoulder at the five boys’, most had to be around her age, maybe a little older. They had tanned skin and from the way they dressed she wasn’t really sure if they were local or just a group of college students. The most of them were in thin white button up shirts and pressed knee length pants, only one was dressed more casually in jeans and a tee shirt which clashed but they didn’t seem to know or care.

She turned away wanting only to mind her own business, but they had other plans it seemed.

Hey, some weather huh? One of the boys said and she knew that they had to be college students, rich ones at that. She heard him coming up behind her and grabbed the handle of her bag just in case. He hopped up and sat on the top of the table looking down at her.

Sure. She said not looking at him, she didn’t like his kind. The kind of person who thought that just because they were pretty and had money could have anything they wanted.

So what’s a little thing like you doing out here all alone, don’t you have a boyfriend? he said leaning closer and she could smell alcohol radiating from him.

Look, I know what you’re trying to do, but I’m not interested ok. So please just let me be. She said staying calm, his eyes flickered and moved closer.

How old are you girl, have to be pretty old to be out here all alone? he said still being cute with his words.

None of your business. Ember got up and grabbed her bag and was ready to leave when he cut her off.

Come on, we just want to have some fun. He said coming closer. The others were also getting closer now and her grip on her bag tightened.

Stay back, I don’t know what you call fun but I don’t want any part of it. Ember said and they laughed.

Girl, you’re the center of are fun. The boy laughed and came closer and grabbed her and kissed her hard. The others were whooping it up, some saying obscene things. She tried to push him off but he was holding her to tight, she bit down into his lip and could taste the metallic of it as he let her go.

Bitch, you bit me. He said and a second later pulled out a switchblade and held it threateningly at her.

You should know something about bitches then? Ember said gripping the strap of her bag.

What, he snapped.

We bite back, She whipped the bag around and smacked him in the head and heard the crack of the laptop as he fell to the ground. She leapt over him and ran down the road, rain blinding her and drenching her.

She could hear