Blood Brats

By Camille Robson

 

Boundaries are explored, pushed. A new friend dies and is reborn. An old friend and enemy is back seeking revenge. Loyalties will be tested. It's been three months since Clementine Bayle met a mysterious stranger one August morning and from that moment, her life changed dramatically. As she gets more intimate with her Eternal lover, she's also now involved in his world. One tragic event will involve her in the preternatural world/scene in Montreal. Her heart torn between her vampire lover and her intimate chaos magic friend, the lines between allies and foes are sometimes blurry. Her arcane power is growing stronger and it will be put to the test, and so will her acceptance of her new path.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Camille Robson
• Release date: Nov 7, 2019
• ISBN: 9781393733836

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

( weeks ago)

The day was gray and overcast. I woke up around noon, a little disoriented. The apartment I’d just moved in was still a new space for me.

I looked at the dress on the back of my chair. I was truly happy to have spent the evening with Neal. He looked like he had enjoyed himself. My feet felt a little sore from all the dancing, but it had been a fun night.

Then Ichiro’s words in the dreamlands came back to me.

I was elated and very confused.

I made coffee and realized I needed to go to the bank today.

After having some breakfast, I took a shower and washed my hair. Wearing an old pair of jeans, a red wool sweater and a jean jacket, I went to the bank. On my way back, I bought bread, some cheese and milk.

I realized I was wearing Neal’s scarf.

Something started nagging at me by mid-afternoon. The feeling of pressure inside and around me was back, but more intense. It felt like a foreboding calm before a storm.

I spent the rest of the afternoon surfing on the web, making small rewrites and notes to the book. The manuscript was taking its final shape.

I emailed Zoe telling her only the good things about the evening and thanking her for her help. As dusk came, the pressure I was feeling was getting almost unbearable; it was all about my arcane energy. I knew there would have to be some release one way or another.

I checked the weather forecast and sure enough, heavy thunderstorms were now a strong possibility for the evening. It was rather late in the year for that kind of weather.

I had tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich for dinner, then got ready for the evening. I had no idea about Ichiro’s plans, but I just knew it had to do with the forecasted storms.

I jumped when my cell phone rang.

Clementine?

Hi Ichiro.

I’ll pick you up in an hour. How are you feeling?

A little tense right now. Where are we going?

He just said. Dress warmly.

The temperature didn’t seem that cool, but the wind was picking up. I wore my rain slicker, Neal’s scarf, and went to wait for Ichiro.

He pulled up five minutes later in his SUV. When I got in, he greeted me with a seductive grin. I really do like your hair this way.

He kissed me and drove us off. He took a route that felt familiar. The sky was very dark, and it looked like the storms were ready to erupt any moment. To calm my nerves, I focused on the music playing; it was some uplifting Trance.

Ichiro turned on a small road, and that’s when I knew where we were going. Several old trees guarded the old house for sale, except I couldn’t see the real estate sign anymore.

Ichiro had been quiet through most of the ride, just squeezing my hand from time to time. I noticed he was wearing the same rings I had seen on his hand several nights ago.

There were some flashes of light on the horizon, and it could only mean one thing. Sure enough, I heard the distant rumble of thunder.

Ichiro parked near the house. He took a large duffel bag from the back seat. The wind was getting stronger, and it was like the pressure was muffling every sound; I could feel and see, but my hearing was suddenly impaired by some deafening silence enclosing me.

I was slowly becoming one with the storm. Just like I had felt with the last violent storm I had been in with Jon.

I saw Ichiro speak but couldn’t hear what he was saying.

Something’s wrong Ichiro, I can’t hear you...

My body felt like it was trapped in heavy static.

You can’t hear me?

I can’t hear anything except your voice like this, within.

I saw more flashes of lightning and felt the thunder as if it was rumbling inside of me and under my feet. I stopped fighting the energy.

Ichiro covered us both in a large blanket and as soon as our bodies touched, something else flared up inside. I got a strong precognition about what had been planned and what was coming. I knew this was part of something pivotal to our near future, and more importantly, in Neal’s.

Ichiro walked us near the porch while the wind picked up another notch. I hung on to him. Rain was starting to come down, lightning and thunder following one another. I felt all of it within. I pulled myself closer to Ichiro. His hand laid flat on my stomach. He was hugging me tighter as lightning flashed closer. I closed my eyes and opened them again when everything erupted, inside and outside.

Connect to the storm with your power, Clementine. We need this energy now, your energy.

I felt swept by wind and warmth; I couldn’t control this or stop it. Panic and arousal mixed. I felt lips on my ear, neck, as the earth vibrated under my feet, teeth grazed my earlobe. The strong gusts from the storm felt they were inside my flesh now. My energy was rising rapidly, travelling through my body and my mind. I took Ichiro’s wrist in my mouth and bit down before he could stop me. I tasted some blood as I heard a low growl inside.

No Clementine! You can’t...

Ichiro tried to take back his wrist quickly, but I wouldn’t let him. I was suddenly strong enough to hold on to his arm. I heard a sigh inside.

There might be no turning back, Clementine.

That made me let go of his arm. I felt power rolling through me. I finally noticed that where a tree had been standing moments ago, now there were just cinders and ashes still smoking. Beside the charred remains, the man with arms of feathers stood there. He blew me a kiss. When he did, I heard the sound of ice breaking, this time mixed with thunderclap; a fresh flow of new energy just flooded me, all mixed with other energies. It was warm and exhilarating.

I finally could hear again. I could breathe. I was also extremely aroused, my enhanced arcane energies craving a different kind of feeding.

Without a word, Ichiro put a key in the front door and led me into the house. There was a sofa there with blankets on it, a sleeping bag, an old armchair, a small table with a lamp.

While Ichiro turned on the lamp and other lights, I stayed close to him. I was so aroused, but I was still trying to control the urging needs. Through the drapes on the windows, I could still see lightning. Was the storm coming or going? I finally found my voice in a whisper.

Whatever you have planned here, whatever your intentions were back there, now it won’t turn out the way you thought. I know it’s going to help us against those who are planning to harm Neal, but this will have ramifications unseen, even by you. Maybe not now, but much later.

I closed my eyes, and that’s when a fresh flood of images engulfed me. I saw Neal walking alone in a deserted area. Someone was watching him. Neal felt it too, I felt hunger around him. When I opened my eyes, Ichiro was staring at me intensely. He knew. Let’s go! Now! He had felt it too. That someone was hungry.

I whispered, my eyes watering. But I don’t know where?

Come on, we’ll figure it out!

I looked at the remains of one of the trees and shivered as I saw the winged man flying away.

Ichiro drove fast as I tried calling Neal on his cell phone. There was no answer.

My mind was assaulted by images. Then I realized I was still wearing Neal’s scarf. I held it with both hands. The precognitive images got clearer. I said. Near his apartment!

Ichiro took my left hand firmly, and without taking his eyes off the road, just said. We can still do something for him. Whatever happens, please trust me, it won’t be too late.

It took us minutes that felt like hours. We found Neal in an alley five minutes from where he lived. There was blood all over what was left of his shirt. I kept calling his name; he didn’t answer. I could see more blood on Neal’s body. Bruises, gashes, open wounds, a large one on his stomach, darker blood oozing, blood on his cheek. I stepped back from the fear and horror. Ichiro was leaning over Neal. I stepped closer.

Ichiro, is he still alive?

He’s been bitten, a lot, and it’s bad. There are several mortal wounds. It was an ambush.

I felt for a pulse, it was faint.

Vampires?

Several. Clementine, you’re here because he needs you, and I need you.

I felt cold rage pushing away sorrow. I looked around; opening my senses, there was no one else here.

Who has done this?

I will find out. Time is running out. He’s dying.

I could actually feel Neal’s life energy slipping away. He was not conscious, but he was hanging on. Pretty soon it would be too late. I actually felt regret from him. Somehow, he was aware of what had happened.

I knew what had to be done, but I didn’t know if Neal would want this.

We have to make a decision here. Do we let him die or do we give him a new existence?

You want both of us to be responsible for this decision? Are you sure Ichiro?

I won’t make that decision alone, Clementine. I need someone who’s not a Reborn to help me here, someone who cares about him. He’s a friend, but he’s also...not a vampire. I need our connection and your energy if something is to be done. Neal trusts you.

But Ichiro, I’m not a vampire. Will this work?

I have been feeding you. You took willingly some of my blood tonight. With your new energy, the connection will be strong enough to bind him to both of us.

I was not sure I was ready for this, for the responsibility. Memories from the night out with Neal were overwhelming me. He had said. Let’s be friends. I wanted to scream how unfair all of this was. There would be time later for sorrow and tears. A decision had to be made.

Neal’s heart was slowing down. I could feel it.

What would he want?

I fought it as long as I could.

He has to live. We let him live.

My shielding was completely down when I said it and that’s all Ichiro needed.

Come closer Clementine.

Since we were now fully connected, we both leaned forward. I kissed Neal on the cheek and said out loud. Forgive me, Neal. I’ll be there for you. I swear this to you.

Ichiro took Neal in his arms, and leaning closer, he sank his fangs into the flesh. Moments later, he cut his wrist bringing it to the man’s mouth. I felt the slow drinking; I could also feel something akin to cold anger; it was Ichiro’s. I actually tasted the blood in my mouth. Ichiro took my wrist to his mouth and bit down. There was a shift in the flow of blood and energies. I put my wrist to Neal’s mouth. I felt my own energy connecting with the two men. Neal was actually taking in a small amount of my blood. I felt the faint line of a new connection within me. I kissed him again, softly on the lips this time.

Will he live?

He will. I have to take him back with me. I have help on the way, go back to your apartment. Be careful. I’ll contact you.

Ichiro, his lips bloodied, kissed me and I kissed him back. There was despair and anger in our exchange.

I’m not shutting you out, Clementine, but I need to take the next steps on my own. I’ll be in touch. The Council may not look too lightly on the decisions we have taken here tonight. I’m just trying to protect everyone, especially you, Clementine. I am so fond of you. Don’t try to find me. I will find you when the time is right. I have to take care of Neal now.

Those last words had been followed by a sigh.

He then severed our connection and when I tried to connect again, I was met by what felt like a wall. I suddenly felt very alone.

Before turning away, I saw Ichiro take Neal in his arms as if he was a child.

I started walking back and came face to face with what I thought at first were dogs, then I realized they were foxes. They crouched, and before my eyes, their shapes slowly changed. Now on the ground were a young man and a young woman, naked. I turned my gaze away.

Fanny just whispered, panting. We felt Ichiro’s call. We’ll take you home.

I found Liam’s and Fanny’s clothes a little further, all neatly folded, along with a backpack. I gave them time to get cleaned and dressed.

In the midst of shock and fresh grief, I asked myself. Didn’t they need a longer amount of time to get back into human shape?

There was a lot of arcane energy from both siblings. Maybe they recovered quickly.

Fanny called out my name. They were now fully dressed. Liam looked more tired than his sister.

We followed him to a side street where his car was parked. Fanny was holding me as if I had been in an accident. I felt numb.

Liam stopped the car near the building where I lived now. He walked me inside. Hang in there, Clementine. If you need any help, Fanny gave you our number.

He kissed me on the forehead and went back to his car.

I knew that eventually the night’s events would catch up and hit me very hard, but now I just felt very tired. I washed my hands, my face, then brushed my teeth repeatedly. I eventually went to bed and fell asleep quickly.

There were no visitors in my dreamlands, just the horrific fresh memories of the night.

Waking up, I glanced at the clock. It was 6:30. I looked at my wrist and just above Ichiro’s mark were other tiny wounds. I muffled a scream with my pillow and violent sobs followed.

I went back to sleep, hugging my pillow. When I woke up again, it was close to noon.

I had to face the world.

∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞∞

I made a quick trip downtown to BEATS, Neal’s music store. It was closed and there was a notice on the door.

Gone out of town due to family emergency. We apologize to all our customers for any inconvenience.

This had been typed and printed. I tried to look inside. It was all dark. I walked to a side street and went to the back. No trash, nothing.

I made my way to Neal’s apartment. It was a thirty minutes’ walk. I found the alley where he had been lying, dying,. There were no traces of blood or a vicious attack, like everything had been wiped clean. 

I walked to where we had found him and touched the ground palm down and felt waves of deceit, rage, hunger and magick. It was difficult to do this unnoticed in the daytime, but I tried to follow a path back to where it might have begun. The trail faded two blocks down.

I tried to link with Ichiro but there was nothing, I did feel a new faint connection. It was to Neal.

I sat on the front steps of the old building where he had lived. I felt the flow of my own tears. A car was slowing down and stopping, through the tears I saw Suresh walking up to me. I went to him and started crying on his shoulder.

Clementine, we need to talk.

Ichiro?

He asked me to find you.

How did you know where I would be?

I would have come here too. He replied.

Suresh looked like he had not slept at all, and his eyes held a sad and somber look.

Is he still with Ichiro?

Suresh looked around.

We shouldn’t talk here.

I started walking away, and Suresh followed me.

Clementine, you might need protection.

Suresh I’ll be fine. I just need a little bit more time by myself.

I kept walking. Putting himself on my path, Suresh said.

I can see and understand why you’re upset right now. Ichiro feels, I should say we feel you should focus on the manuscript; it could help. Naveen and I will be the link between you and him for the time being.

I thought it was ironic he would use the word link.

He had said all of this in a very calm and professional tone; it actually helped me rise above the anguish. He handed me a tissue.

Sounds like it may be longer than a week. I finally said.

He doesn’t know. One other thing, the need for protection is not a figure of speech. Ichiro has told us you have a powerful friend. He should be close to you right now. Fanny and Liam are also a call away.

I couldn’t begin to imagine how to tell Jon about all of this.

Thank you for finding me, Suresh, and thank Ichiro for me. I swallowed back tears. What will happen to our friend?

Ichiro is taking good care of him. That’s all I know, and I trust him.

I lowered my head. Suresh came closer and hugged me. I was really trying not to crumble again. I pulled away. Some people were walking around us. I was surprised no one stopped or stared.

Talk to someone Clementine, don’t stay like this, on your own.

He kissed me on the cheek and said. Please be careful.

I will.

Can I drop you off somewhere?

I sighed, and it hurt inside.

No, it’s okay. I’ll be careful, but I would still like to walk for a while.

He hugged me again and left, looking behind his shoulder, worried.

Dusk had set when I reached the entrance of a subway station. A man stood outside, handing out flyers. He was very tall, long-haired, full beard, bushy eyebrows. He walked up to me. I felt something, strong energy from him, I didn’t want to pay attention.

He gave me a flyer. All Hallows eve tomorrow lass, storytelling time starts tonight with lots of scary tales and good ale.

This guy had a quirky groveling voice; he was dressed in a lumberjack jacket and workmen’s pants.

I was about to say not interested when I looked at the flyer and saw the name of the pub. This was the same pub from the flyer I had found in my new apartment’s mailbox not that long ago. The same one I had been carrying in my satchel.

You should really drop by. It would do you some good.

And he walked away.

I couldn’t deal with anymore arcane surprises for now. As for scary stories, I had a fresh one haunting me.

Back home. I turned off my cell phone and turned on the computer. There were several emails from Jon; I couldn’t reply just yet.

I knew that I was partly responsible for Neal’s soon-to-be Reborn life. I had been so sure about this last night, now doubt and guilt were creeping up on me.

I realized I hadn’t eaten in a while and made myself some chicken soup and toasted bread. Then I went to meditate for a while. My mind was now clearer, yet I knew I would still have to deal with some grief for a long while.

I wanted to do something for Neal, to remember the man who had been and would likely never exactly be again, and for myself.

It was quite late when I took a cab to go back downtown. I asked the driver to take me near BEATS because that’s where Neal had spent most of his time. I had my knapsack and in it I had brought a knife Ichiro had given me.

I was carrying other items too.

I checked the alley near the store and then the back. No one was here. Not even homeless people or drunks. That was a little surprising.

I was dressed warmly with a duffel coat and a scarf, Neal’s scarf.

I crouched and lighted three candles. Two white ones and a dark green one. Keeping my senses opened for intruders, I made several wishes for Neal, swore an oath to be there for him, and asked him to forgive me for what I had decided for his future. That last part brought a fresh wave of sorrow and I just crouched there, sobbing. I felt movement behind and suddenly I felt blanketed by a comforting presence all around me. I stayed like this for a while, not wondering about the reassuring presence. I finally managed to get up. A sudden breeze made the small flames of the candles quiver.

I turned around to find the man with the long caramel hair and feathers. He was naked from the waist up; his eyes were amber, his hair past his shoulders.

We stood there in silence. I finally said. It’s been a long time.

You can’t be alone right now, Clementine. That pub would be a good place to find warmth, a good listener and maybe some help.

That pub?

Yes. Clementine, you have to make new connections.

He turned around and started walking away. I asked him.

How did you find me again?

He turned around and with a smile said.

You were ready to be found this time.

I let him walk away and eventually went back home.

I slept better. No one visited my dreams. I did feel, most of the time, some connection to Neal. It was full of confusion and anger.

The next day, I sent an email to my family and friends, explaining that I was stepping back from socializing to finish the book project.

I took walks outside, trying to clear my head, still dealing with grief, anguish, and pain. I also felt selfish; after all, this was not exactly about me, I was not the undead victim, but so much had happened in so little time.

During my meditation sessions, I got clearer images, more details about that night when Neal had been attacked. My intuition and energy were allowing me to gain access to some information. I wrote down everything.

It’s after one of those sessions that I realized where Ichiro had taken Neal. I would still respect his wishes and boundaries.

Several days later, I organized everything and worked on finishing writing Ichiro’s book. I should have felt relief and joy, but I was mostly sad.

It was now Friday.

I got a short email from Jon.

"Dear Clementine,

I know things are not going well for you right now. I can feel it. You know I’m here for you, but I will respect yours and others’ boundaries. I got the job in Montreal. I will make a gradual move back to the city. I’m always an email away if not a phone call. I won’t push, but I’m sure I can help with whatever you’re going through. Remember to put yourself first and protect yourself.

I’ll let you know when I get back in town.

I care about you, Clementine.

Jon."

A part of me wanted so much to talk to him, but I was not ready yet.

The connection to Neal was now getting stronger. Now, I also felt his hunger.

The doorbell rang, and my heart skipped a beat. I went downstairs, but there was no one there. An envelope was sticking out of my mailbox, silver, unmistakable.

I opened my mailbox and took my regular mail; there was another flyer from the Homebound Pub. Someone had written. Good stories, good food, tasty beer, come and join us! We have been waiting for you.

I took a long nap, and then looking at those three flyers again, I made a decision. I slipped in a warm sweater and an old pair of jeans, some warm socks, hiking boots and the pea coat. I took my satchel and walked out to the bus stop.

I went by the bank to make the deposit and get a statement. At least this part of my life felt better, if only for a while. Dark thoughts were threatening to overwhelm me again. I needed to sit around some people. Someone was right.

The Homebound Pub was not far from where the Halloween party had taken place. The outside was quite typical. I probably had walked by this pub often, but never really noticed it.

I came in to a busy place with Celtic music in the background. The lighting was subdued. The lively conversations all around made me feel a little dizzy. I was not sure anymore if I wanted to be here. A plump, tall woman with dark blonde hair in a ponytail came to meet me.

Hi! Look there’s a small table over there. Seems right for you.

It was in a remote corner. I was about to find an excuse to get out of there when she added. Shepherd’s pie is the special tonight.

Sounds good.

I followed her. She was looking at me like she knew me. It made me a little nervous, but I didn’t feel any arcane energy or ill intents from her.

So, the special sounds good?

Definitely, with a pint of Kilkenny, please?

Coming right up.

A small stage was set up, and some instruments were there, but no one was around.

The small crowd of customers was mostly made of young people and office workers; the latter probably came here after office hours. I was thankful for the remote table.

The friendly waitress was back with my food and beer.

Thanks, it smells good.

Well, come on, have a taste.

I had one bite, and it was warm and delicious.

Yes, it’s very good.

Enjoy! By the way, I’m Mona. If you need anything, just smile and wave.

The food was really nice and comforting, it seemed to take care of some of the cold inside. I was relaxing. Yet I found I was actually reluctant to this thawing within, afraid of emotions and memories that would come flooding back.

I finished my dinner, and my beer, then glanced back at Mona.

Can I have another beer?

Same?

Yes, please.

I was looking for a tissue in my bag when the hand that delivered the beer was not Mona’s.

You missed my ghost stories the other night.

This was the guy from the subway station, the tall hairy one. He had an accent that I could only place around Scotland.

I could feel very strong power from him. I shielded a little more.

Good, you do know how to shield.

Do we know each other?

We have never met, but you don’t have anything to worry about. I’m Calum. Hello Clementine.

His voice was quite distinctive, on the gruff side; his manner was cordial and laidback. I didn’t feel threatened by him, but I reminded myself I still had to be cautious.

May I sit down?

Of course.

He had a pint of his own with him. He must have been well in his thirties, had strong hands and was dressed rather simply, with a cable-knit sweater and brown corduroy pants. His eyes were deep brown with some gold flecks.

So if you know me, I’m going to guess the DJ sent you. I said. Are you here on his behalf?

No, I’m here on my behalf. I’m afraid that a lot that has been happening to you is sort of my fault. Here’s some tissues.

I took one, blew my nose, th,en said. I’m listening. Wait, why didn’t you talk to me the other day? Obviously those flyers I’ve been getting were from you.

You had to come here; I couldn’t say more. You never know who’s lurking and listening.

So, why am I here?

I want to help and offer you some extra protection.

That seems to be the main theme this week. The one who really needed protection is...

I couldn’t talk anymore. I felt tears threatening to stream down.

He put his hand on my shoulder and I felt calmer.

He’s being taken care of. Look, I’m not here to make excuses or explain the DJ’s actions. What I’m asking for is about three weeks of your time.

I sighed heavily. I sensed more ulterior motives.

Three weeks for what, exactly?

Explain, answer questions, help you find balance with all that energy emerging now. You now have a new connection to take care of.

His tone was solemn, and he spoke more softly.

His hand rested on mine. He meant it as a friendly gesture.

Clementine, listen to me. I know a lot has happened in a very short amount of time and I feel how much effort it’s taking you to fight sadness and grief right now. Before you ask me about ulterior motives, I want to tell you that I owe Ichiro a lot and I don’t mean you any harm.  I know that you are close friend with a magician. I don’t know who is in a better position to help you right now. Maybe it should be him.

Two guys and a girl came on the small makeshift stage and the crowd applauded. It turned out to be an all acoustic session of Celtic songs.

Calum didn’t raise his voice, and I found I could still hear him; his hand was still on mine. I didn’t pull away.

Is the manuscript done?

Essentially, yes.

Then you’ve got some time?

I sighed. Listening to the music, I felt some tears escaping and streaming down. He handed me another tissue. He gave me some time before speaking again.

You’re a strong lass, Clementine. I feel your energy and it is stronger than I thought, even with the grieving and sadness.

I was still so exhausted I couldn’t make decisions. Calum must have sensed this.

Think about my offer. You don’t have to give me an answer tonight.

Can you tell me what I would be getting into for three weeks?

He smiled teasingly. Nothing naughty.

I frowned.

We will restore some balance, teach you a couple of tricks about boundaries, and help you with your newest connection. I’ll answer questions you might have. Also, I’ll be around in case you need protection. I’m not much of a knight in shining armor, but I can be quite a diversion, and I’m a decent wizard. You would still have time to polish the manuscript.

I closed my eyes and said. I need to get back home.

Can I drive you?

No, I’m fine, thanks.

At least take a cab?

I will.

I left a tip on the table for the Mona. Calum was already standing, holding my jacket for me. I let him slip it on and his hands resting on my shoulders, he said. You’re not alone.

Everyone kept saying that.

Calum walked with me to the cash register. Mona was talking to a younger man with bright red hair.

Oh, Calum has paid for this, didn’t he tell you?

I looked at the tall man. He was smiling sheepishly.

This is where you thank me profusely.

I sighed and smiled. Thank you.

Mona, can we call a cab for Clementine?

Of course.

Thank you Mona. I said.

No problem. Please come and see us again.

I will.

I turned to Calum. Where can I reach you?

You can leave a message here. I will get it.

I walked out to a cooler night. The cab was not there yet. I went to stand a little further away from the pub. I was looking for my gloves when I felt someone staring at me. I glanced around but saw no one. I kept looking for that cab when I saw a man on the other side of the street with a long coat and a high ponytail, He was Asian. He felt familiar. He nodded at me and walked away.

I moved back near the door as Calum was coming out.

No cab yet?

No.

Everything alright?

I think so.

I looked across the street. The man was not there anymore.

I saw a taxi cab slowing down.

Calum had put his hand on my shoulder again.

Don’t take unnecessary risks, and remember, you have friends and allies.

I would have slept better if my link to Neal had not grown stronger. There was so much hunger and confusion from him. I tried to shield more from our new connection, feeling guilty for doing so.

A dream sequence brought the winged being; I was leaning on a tree beside him. I touched one of his wings.

I don’t remember your name.

I never told you my name, but younger, you gave me another. He smiled. If I tell you my name, will you consider the wizard’s offer?

Sounded like a fairy tale conundrum.

Why should I consider it?

He touched my cheek.

Because it will help you. I’ll be watching over you.

Three weeks...

I will be around, flying, never too far.

‘ou were around years ago. What’s different now?

The walls between us, our worlds, have come down. We have grown closer.

I had a million questions, but it could wait. I trusted him, always had.

I let my head fall on his shoulder, feathers soft under my ear.

Okay. I’ll give him the three weeks.

I’m Dylan Hewitt.

I woke up feeling better. A new day was dawning again.

I worked on the manuscript but also listened to some music, something I had not done since Neal’s apparent death and rebirth.

Suddenly, I remembered where I had seen the man from the night before, outside near the pub, the Asian one with the ponytail; It was from a picture taken in Mongolia. I had a strange thought. Why not begin Ichiro’s second book with this picture and the few details Ichiro had shared about his stay in that country? I made some notes.

I cleaned my apartment, surveyed the content of my fridge, then went out for some food shopping. After all the cleaning up and the errands, I looked at the calendar. Three weeks, Calum had said, it would take me close to Ichiro’s birthday. Coincidental? Probably not.

I called the pub and left a message for Calum, the man who took the call didn’t seem surprised at the message. I left my cell phone number.

Calum called back later that night.

I’ll pick you up in forty-five minutes. Wait for me inside. I’ll use the buzzer.

Calum was driving a refurbished Volkswagen bus; I didn’t expect anything else from him.

Not very trendy, chic or esoteric, is it?

I smiled for the first time in days.

It’s you, and those vehicles are still very trendy.

I kept getting conflicting signals from his arcane energy. I was not sure if he was only a wizard.

Calum took me back near the Homebound but parked a little further.

We walked two blocks to an older apartment building and made our way to the third floor. The building was in need of some renovations, but it was clean. Before opening the door, Calum asked.

I hope you don’t mind? We will be away from prying eyes and ears.

He opened the door and said.

Welcome to my humble abode.

Many dark rich colors greeted me inside. Old hardwood floors creaked under my feet.

Now, what can I get you? I have coffee, herb tea, dark and red ale, red wine, whiskey and water.

Water for now would be good.

We sat down in a very eclectic but warm and cozy kitchen.

Calum, sorry to be so direct but I can’t quite tell if you’re a preternatural, or even a...

Vampire? I am one.

I was a little surprised.

But you were outside before nightfall.

It was dusk. Long story. If you want, I will tell it to you one day.

You’re also a wizard.

I am.

Now, Calum, what am I doing here?

As I said, I’m here to help and...

I knew there had to be something else.

And...

"To help Ichiro find who did this to Neal, and there are ways you can