Divergence

By Melanie P. Smith

Part Mortal, Part Divinity, Fully Devoted.

The gathering has begun. Six demigods embark on an epic journey of danger, mystical creatures, dark magic, and intrigue. When an ancient prophesy is triggered, the tale of six powerful immortals begins. Legend has it, the chosen six will triumph over evil and restore peace. But first, they must gather together and converge on the land where their parents were defeated. Time is running out, the Titans want revenge, and the future of the entire world is at stake.

Meet the immortals -The wiccan, the shifter, the Master of Water, the siren, the healer, the Reader of Minds. Their destiny awaits — if they accept their fate and unite to confront a dangerous enemy in the battle of a lifetime.

• Language: English
• Publisher: MPSmith Publishing
• Release date: Jul 25, 2020
• ISBN: 9781005393649

Melanie P. Smith

Melanie P. Smith went to Dixie State College and the University of Phoenix where she received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management. She also has a Postgraduate Certificate in Conflict Resolution and Negotiation from the University of Utah. She worked for the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Office for over 26 years. Most of that time was in the Special Operations Division where she worked closely with the SWAT Team and The Child Abduction Response Team coordinating communications and logistics. She also worked closely with Search & Rescue, The Mounted Posse, K9 and the Motorcycle Squad. Melanie has been able to utilize both her knowledge of police operations and business practices to make her novels fun and exciting.

Book preview

Divergence

The Immortals

Book 1

by:

Melanie P. Smith

Book Description

Part Mortal, Part Divinity, Fully Devoted.

The gathering has begun. Six demigods embark on an epic journey of danger, mystical creatures, dark magic, and intrigue. When an ancient prophecy is triggered, the tale of six powerful immortals begins. Legend has it, the chosen six will triumph over evil and restore peace. But first, they must gather together and converge on the land where their parents were defeated. Time is running out, the Titans want revenge, and the future of the entire world is at stake.

Meet the immortals -The wiccan, the shifter, the Master of Water, the siren, the healer, the Reader of Minds. Their destiny awaits — if they accept their fate and unite to confront a dangerous enemy in the battle of a lifetime.

Copyright © 2020 Melanie P. Smith

First Edition | Series: Immortals

Edited by LaPriel Dye

* * *

No part of this document or the related files may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, by any means (electronic, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of the Author.

www.melaniepsmith.com

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. All trademarks are the property of their owners and are acknowledged by the proper use of capitalization throughout.

Dedication:

To my late sister, Lori. She always loved a good story — the more entertaining, the better. When she wasn’t reading one, you could usually find her telling one.

Table of Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

About the Author

Chapter One

Beckett stood behind his desk, staring into the unsettled darkness. A storm was raging, a violent, tumultuous exhibit of Mother Nature’s strength and vengeance. He should be working, but he was feeling restless. Energy seemed to pulse through him in waves tonight making him edgy and agitated. He couldn’t concentrate, and the weather wasn’t helping. The unease, the force that surrounded him, seemed to vibrate throughout the entire room. The invisible wave continued to pulse and build exponentially until it felt like a living being. He watched in fascination as the storm outside grew and strengthened into something even more dangerous. The wind intensified and the rain pelted like angry bullets against the window; a vital but thin barrier that separated Beckett from the chaos that swirled just out of reach. It felt surreal somehow, something Hollywood would conjure for entertainment. He half expected an ominous monster to solidify and fling itself out of the bright lightning before it attacked some innocent human frantically running down the sidewalk looking for cover. Now, he was being ridiculous. Beckett shook his head in disbelief. He wasn’t a fanciful man... never had been. He was refined and grounded... a sophisticated professional to the core. So, what brought on such a vivid and whimsical illusion? Boredom?

He glanced at his desk, at the enormous pile of work waiting for his attention and frowned. He should get back to that... but he knew he wouldn’t. His mind — his body — was too energized to sit quietly behind the desk and tackle menial paperwork. His gaze shifted once again to the ominous black cityscape. Lightning struck nearby, illuminating an otherwise dark and menacing skyline. The storm fascinated him, gripped his attention in a way few things had in his lifetime. It felt like he was in a trance… mesmerized, captivated, and confused. He continued to stand there frozen in place; to observe and to wonder as he watched the bright flashes of light; and listened to the deep rumbling thunder echo throughout the room — and the city below. Yet, somehow, he still heard the soft footsteps of his one and only true friend when he stepped into the dimly lit room. Beckett didn’t turn, didn’t move, he simply waited for Zander to silently make his way to the window.

We have to leave, Zander announced.

Now, Beckett did look up. His right-hand man and best friend’s voice held more than a hint of urgency. Zander was usually calm and collected, a trait Beckett envied. I still have at least an hour, maybe two...

Leave it, Zander gave his friend— his brother — a gentle shove. Hurry, into the private elevator. We need to go. He reached down, snatched up Beckett’s long business coat and briefcase; then, he half pushed, half followed Beckett to a small opening at the far side of the massive room.

Beckett barely had time to secure the door that separated his workspace from the tiny alcove, when five men burst into the office. Five men that looked as though they had just pulled off a successful prison break and were now looking for trouble.

Who are they? Beckett asked, studying the security screen before him. I don’t know them. What do they want? The leader stepped forward and angrily slid his arms across Beckett’s desk in frustration. Papers fluttered then scattered over the lush carpet. The man exuded darkness — In every way, Beckett decided. He had long black hair that was slicked back into a ponytail, coal black eyes, and a long, leather duster that billowed when he turned — black as well. Of course.

No time, Zander practically shoved Beckett into the opulent elevator. I’ll explain later. He punched a button and waited impatiently for the small car to slowly make its way toward the parking garage.

I’m in the basement, you know that, Beckett grumbled — Annoyed his friend was doing the pushing. Beckett wasn’t used to taking orders, not even from Zander. What do they want? Beckett demanded, again.

You, Zander said soberly. He impatiently shifted on his feet, swaying slightly to the left, the right, then back to the left as he watched the numbers grow smaller on the display. Finally! The elevator beeped, and the sturdy metal doors slid open. Zander didn’t wait, he gave Beckett’s back a shove, then motioned to the armed guards that were waiting next to a sleek black vehicle with tinted windows.

Me? Beckett asked in confusion. Zander, what’s going on? Beckett demanded just before the two guards flanked him, each grabbed an elbow and forcefully ushered him to the strange vehicle. Initially, Beckett was too stunned to resist; but he regained his composure quickly and refused to comply when one of the men flung open the backdoor and motioned for Beckett to climb inside. He shifted, believing his friend was directly behind him but realized, almost instantly, Zander was still standing next to the elevator.

Get him to Ashur’s, Zander ordered. Route Bravo and watch your back.

Wait? What? Beckett began before two men shoved him into the backseat and started to close the door. You’re not coming with me?

I’ll meet you there, Zander called out. He watched one of the men slam Beckett’s door before he jumped into the passenger seat. The car sped away, catching air momentarily as it flew over the ramp that led to the highway, then disappeared. Zander just hoped they would make it in time.

He glanced over his shoulder and spotted the second vehicle pulling up to the curb. The door flew open and Zander jumped in. He immediately pivoted to watch out the back window. Within seconds, Pyke and his crew emerged from a public elevator a few yards away. They looked like a small army of ants fleeing a hole and marching into battle. Bullets rang out and tires squealed. Zander’s driver continued out of the garage and headed for the highway. They’d lead their pursuers on a wild goose chase, head out in the opposite direction to keep Beckett safe; and with any luck, they’d survive the battle that was coming. The one that was imminent... and the one brewing in the shadows. Zander could feel it silently gathering momentum and knew, without a doubt, an old foe was about to unleash his wrath.

Pyke growled in frustration, then watched the vehicle fly up the ramp and turn right onto the main roadway that led out of town. Get to the car! He and his crew rushed to the souped-up BMW, climbed in, and followed their target onto the highway. Pyke settled into the passenger’s seat, fuming.

How did they know? Astral asked.

How do you think? Pyke growled.

But you said they didn’t understand, Astral pressed. You said they wouldn’t feel it.

Apparently, I miscalculated, Pyke barked. Catch them. He pushed his body forward, glanced at the sky, then raised his arms in the air and began to chant. Chaos reigns, spirits of the abyss. Bring more darkness to those who resist. Blind them, curse them, out of control. I see the enemy, scorch their soul. Use the lightning- make them bow. With this hex, they are punished now.

*****

Hold on, the driver ordered.

Beckett tightened his grip on the handle above the door. Where are you taking me?

No answer.

Wait, Zander said Ashur. If he was referring to that no-good, former uncle of mine... well, you can forget it. I have nothing to say to that man.

Silence.

I’m giving you an order, take me to my apartment.

The two men continued to ignore him.

He leaned forward then jumped when a flash of lightning nearly struck their windshield. Thunder bellowed with so much force, it rattled his bones. Beckett began to feel a sense of panic. The dark energy pulsing around him seemed to intensify with each passing second. The two strangers — men who had shoved him into the back seat of an unfamiliar vehicle — raced down the highway, headed away from the city — away from safety and security— into the seclusion of a nearby forest. The rain was thick now, so thick the wipers couldn’t keep up with the flow of water as it streamed down the windshield. Another vibrant flash erupted just outside his window, then came the thunder booming with such intensity it shook the entire car. Where was Zander? Did he make it out okay? And what in the bloody hell was going on?

It was nearly twenty minutes later when the vehicle pulled off the road and made its way down a dirt and gravel path that led further into the thick forest. Beckett continued to study his surroundings, unsure where he was or where they were going. He did know they were miles away from Braxton City limits now, miles away from Zander, miles from the five hardened men that looked like they’d spent the past decade in a maximum-security prison. He ran his hand through his hair in frustration and wondered, once again, if he’d just been rescued... or abducted.

*****

Zander focused on the vehicle inches from their bumper. Their lead had quickly vanished with Pyke in the car. Score one for dark magic. The driver took a corner a little too fast, corrected course, and accelerated. Zander pulled out his phone, intending to contact Ashur when the first shot rang out. He glanced back and spotted the semi-automatic rifle. One of Pyke’s men was pushing his body further out of the back window, taking aim... again.

Zander frantically searched the rear passenger area of the car for something he could use. He found the perfect solution rolling around on the floorboard behind the driver’s seat. He leaned over and tried to reach the closest water bottle but missed completely. He forcefully pushed his body forward to try again but was stopped by the restraint; the tip of his finger barely brushed over the lid before the car jerked; the bottle rolled in the opposite direction, collided with the door, and settled under the driver’s seat.

Zander impatiently snapped the release on his seatbelt and grabbed both plastic containers by the neck. He paused and anxiously glanced through the back window when he heard the distinctive boom of a rifle. His concern turned to amusement when he realized luck was on their side. The enemy was a terrible shot and had missed their vehicle by a mile. He slid lower in his seat, closed his eyes, and conjured the detailed image of a small explosive device. Once he had the image in his mind, he let the energy build and grow until he could barely contain it. Then, he pushed it outward toward the two bottles of water. Within seconds, the harmless plastic containers transformed into two lethal weapons.

Zander set one of the bombs on the seat beside him, rolled down the window, pivoted, and balanced his body on the door. He snapped his fingers and the det cord on the first bomb burst to life. He focused not on the man... but the vehicle. Pyke’s soldier was half inside, half outside of the car now. His torso was pressed against the door frame, the large rifle securely leveled at the car in front of them. Zander barely noticed; his eyes were glued to the front tires as he calculated the distance between the two vehicles. With the flick of his wrist, he tossed the rudimentary device directly into the path of their enemy. Yes! A slow smile spread across his face – Bullseye, Zander thought when his weapon exploded.

The car swerved sideways and nearly rolled when the driver jerked the wheel in an attempt to miss the blast. Hot air and debris struck the gunman who was still hanging out the window. He immediately dropped the rifle and threw his hands over his face before collapsing onto the back seat. That’s when the wind picked up, the rain intensified, and lightning struck the hood, the trunk, and the ground that surrounded Zander’s vehicle. Apparently, Pyke was getting angry. Bolt after bright bolt encircled their little car. They swerved, slowed, then accelerated around the danger. The rain was coming down in buckets now. The thunder bellowed and deepened with each angry roar, echoing throughout the night with such intensity the vehicle began to shake.

Zander inhaled a deep breath, pivoted, and pushed up and out of the back window again. After another finger snap, the second device was live. He focused on the pavement, the car, and his enemy; calculating the precise distance that would give the best impact. With another flick of his wrist, the device was airborne. It hit the asphalt, exploded, and the front hood detached from the enemy’s car. It caught wind and flew upwards, over the top of the BMW. The vehicle slowed, but it wasn’t enough. Pyke would just find another way to attack. I need a knife, Zander called to the two men in the front seat.

The passenger frowned, leaned forward, and produced a large, elaborate hunting knife with a twelve-inch blade.

You won’t get this back, Zander warned. The large man just shrugged. Zander took that as permission. He leaned as far as he dared through the opening; and, once again, flicked his wrist. The dark energy circling around them was now so thick and hot, it burned his throat and nostrils. Zander used it to give his projectile speed and strength. The knife cut through the air with ease. Perfect hit! Heavy steel sliced through the thick rubber of the passenger side tire, leaving a huge gash in the outer edge of the sidewall. The tire deflated almost instantly, the BMW swerved, the driver over-corrected, hit the edge of an embankment, and the car rolled. Floor it buddy, we just caught a break, Zander ordered in triumph. He rolled up the window and settled against the backseat.

They didn’t wait to see if the occupants survived. They didn’t care. Death was an inevitable reality during wartime... and Zander knew, without a doubt, this was the beginning of another war. They sped away from the scene, away from the city, away from the danger. Within seconds, they had reached an obscure turnoff. The vehicle slowed before it made a quick left, then another. Once they were a safe distance from the crash, speeding away on a parallel highway, Zander inhaled a long, deep breath and slowly let it out. He repeated the ritual several more times in an attempt to relax – he had to disburse the energy threatening to overcome him. Fear, despair, anger... it surrounded him, nearly suffocated him, and threatened to overpower him, but he couldn’t let it. Not now. Ashur needed him... Beckett needed him. He would not let either man down — not tonight.

He stared aimlessly out the side window and hoped they’d make it to the cabin before Ashur succumbed to his illness. Once again, anxiety threatened to overpower him. Zander immediately closed his eyes and conjured the image of a bright, sunny day at the beach. He concentrated on the waves, the sand, the soothing tide as it flowed inland, then back out to sea — the exercise reminded him of his mother. She’d taught him this relaxation technique at a very young age. The memory made him smile but also brought pain. He frowned and tried to push everything but the scorching sun, soothing sand, and surf from his mind. If he didn’t calm down, the energy would consume him; and he’d lose the thin thread of control he was still fighting to maintain. He had no idea what would happen then, but he didn’t want to find out tonight. Not out here in the middle of nowhere, confined to the backseat of a car.

*****

You’re here to see Mr. Neaman, the large man grumbled and yanked open Beckett’s door. He’s in the bedroom just inside to the right.

Actually, Beckett gave the man a condescending scowl. I’m here because you manhandled me, tossed me into the backseat of this car, and forced me against my will. I think I’ll wait for Zander.

There’s no time, the second man stepped into view behind the open door. Ashur doesn’t have time.

Well, Beckett smiled. That’s unfortunate, isn’t it? Because, I have all the time in the world.

The first man moved to yank Beckett from the car but was stopped by the driver. I’ll go in, tell the boss he’s being difficult. You wait here. Hopefully, Zee will show up soon.

Beckett frowned. Clearly, these men knew his friend well. So, why hadn’t Beckett met them before tonight? Zee doesn’t tell me what to do. He works for me; I call the shots. You might want to remember that in the future.

You will do as Zander says, the guard said confidently.

You know, Beckett inhaled slowly and tried to reign in his temper. Just because that control freak in there gave the order, doesn’t mean I’ll comply. You’re right, I might listen to Zander because I respect him. Ashur Neaman... that’s an entirely different story. Good ol’ Uncle Ash might want to see me tonight, but that doesn’t mean I’ll capitulate. For all I know, he’s the one that sent those five goons after me in the first place.

The man snorted... actually snorted. So much for stoic and professional, Beckett thought.

*****

By the time the car reached the gate that led to Ashur Neaman’s secret cabin, Zander was back in control again. The instant the car came to a stop, he opened his eyes and straightened in the seat. The moment he saw the vehicle, door slung open, Beckett sitting stubbornly in the back ... that control began to slip away again. He cursed, threw open his own door and marched across the front yard.

Zander, Beckett said, not looking up from his cellphone.

Zander set his jaw and waited. Several seconds passed before he lost patience, ripped the phone from Beckett’s hand, and threw it against the opposite car door.

Beckett jumped from the vehicle and moved forward, stopping a little too close, intentionally invading Zander’s space. I don’t know what’s gotten into you tonight, but whatever this is... he swept a hand to the side. It ends — now.

We need to get inside, Zander said coolly.

You know how I feel about that man, Beckett answered in surprise. Nothing about tonight made sense... especially Zander’s attitude.

I do, Zander once again inhaled a long, soothing breath, then slowly released it. But I don’t care. Not tonight.

You don’t care? Beckett said softly.

Beck, Zander sighed. Ashur is dying. It’s time to put your hatred aside. Go in there... speak to the man for five minutes and see if you change your mind.

I don’t need some deathbed apology, Zee.

That’s good, because I highly doubt you’ll get one, Zander said flatly.

Then what’s the point?

The point? Zander asked. To start, you need answers. Answers only that man can give you. It’s your only shot, Beck. Go inside, see what Ashur has to say. Then, we’ll leave... well, you can leave. I need to wait and take care of... he shrugged, things before I go.

What kind of things?

The final resting place sort of things, Zander said cryptically.

Beckett studied his friend for several seconds. Are we here for me — or you?

Both, Zander glanced up and spotted one of the guards that had transported Beckett from the office. His look told Zander all he needed to know; Ashur didn’t have much time left. Now, I’m going inside to say goodbye to a friend. You decide what you’re going to do. I won’t force this; but just remember if you sit out here like a petulant child until he’s gone, later — when you want to know the truth and there’s nobody around to explain it — you only have yourself to blame.

Beckett leaned stubbornly against the trunk of the vehicle. If Zander thought he could guilt or insult Beckett into visiting a man he hated with every fiber of his being, he was wrong.

Zander shrugged, turned, and disappeared into the rustic cabin.

Beckett frowned, conflicted, angry and a little hurt that Zander wasn’t taking his side on this.

Hey, Zander said stepping inside the room and settling into a chair to the right of Ashur’s bed.

Hey, kid, Ashur pushed himself into a half sitting position.

Don’t, Zander objected.

I’m fine, Ashur struggled a couple more seconds before settling onto the large pillows stacked behind him. I take it that nephew of mine still won’t have anything to do with me.

I tried, Zander frowned. He’s still so angry.

The men said you had trouble, Ashur continued.

A bit, Zander admitted. They found him. Pyke and his men burst into the office intent on killing.

I was afraid of that, Ashur closed his eyes and took a ragged breath. The weaker I get, the worse the danger is going to be for him.

Which is why we should have told him sooner, Zander grumbled. He jumped to his feet and began to pace the room. Now, you won’t be here to explain things.

It would have brought everything to a head sooner, Ashur disagreed. Once he knows...

Yeah, Zander sighed in agreement. But he’s being pig-headed and stupid about this.

He has a right to be angry, Ashur said, sadness evident in his voice. I don’t regret anything I did to keep that boy safe, but the price we both paid...

It’s not your fault, Zander turned to study the grief in Ashur’s expression. We both had a say in it. We honored the promises we made to Rhea. Right or wrong, it was her choice to make, not ours.

Fault? Ashur shrugged weakly. No, but I can’t help wondering if we made the wrong choice — if Rhea did. Come back over here, sit down already, you’re making me dizzy with all that pacing.

Zander couldn’t help but grin and obey. He settled back into the chair next to the bed and rested his hand on top of Ashur’s in solidarity.

Beckett stood in the hallway, listening. What did he mean, the choice was his mother’s? Did Ashur abandon him because his mom asked him to? Not possible. Rhea Prescott loved her son more than anything in the world. It was the only thing he remembered about his childhood. Surely, she wanted his family to step in, to care for him, shelter him, protect him. No, Ashur was making excuses for his behavior because he felt guilty; and, he was dying. Beckett would not believe a word of it.

There’s not much time, Zee, Ashur finally said. I’ve left everything I own to you. The money, the property, everything. Beckett will get the lakehouse. It’s his... no matter what the courts say, he is the rightful owner. It’s his birthright. Unfortunately, we both know the instant he realizes...

Yeah, Zander said. I figured that out on the way over. Once you’re gone, there’s nothing stopping him from going there — From triggering the dominos and putting things in motion. Your power is slipping already. I can feel Pyke and his men getting closer. Apparently, they didn’t die in that car crash. They’re not here yet, but they’re moving in our direction. Beckett can’t go back to the office; he can’t step foot in his apartment. He’ll need a place to regroup and once the spell you conjured is broken...well, he’s going to head straight to the battlefield. Not even I can stop it. I don’t think I should even try.

I see the two of you are old friends, Beckett stepped into the room. The conversation they were having didn’t make a lick of sense.

Beckett, Ashur studied the man standing in the doorway and wished things could have been different somehow. The boy was so frightened and vulnerable the night Ashur found him huddled in the barn, hiding from the Titans. Facing the monsters who had robbed him of his parents... of his childhood, was more than the youngster could handle. Ashur wanted to scoop the fragile, terrified boy up, take him home, and guard him with his life. But Rhea had warned him against that. She knew what they were up against and she understood what had to be done to save her son. No matter how difficult, no matter the price, the boy had to be protected.

The man standing before him now wasn’t scared or frightened, but he was still vulnerable. The anger, the hurt, the loneliness that was Beckett’s constant companion only intensified that vulnerability. Ashur didn’t know what he could have done differently, how he could have handled things in a way that didn’t damage the man so profoundly, but maybe he should have tried. Not a day went by that Ashur hadn’t searched for a solution, one that enabled the two of them to be friends, to love rather than hate, to grow and prepare for what was coming. Now, he was out of time and the boy would be thrown into a destiny he wasn’t ready to face. Knowing that, Ashur sank further into despair. He had failed... Beckett, and his sister. Worse, there was nothing he could do to fix it.

I don’t know what all that nonsense was about my mother, Beckett began. But I’m not here to listen to excuses or blame shifting. I just want to know why you forced me here tonight and if those men, the ones we ran from, are working for you. Did they attack me because of you, old man?

I guess, in a way, you could say that, Ashur sighed.

So, you did send them? You used them to manipulate me, to force me to come here? Beckett turned to leave.

Pyke found you because I’m dying, Ashur corrected. I did not send him, but I can no longer protect you from him. I can’t keep you hidden from the danger any longer. Once I pass, he’ll find this place, too. You have to be gone before that happens. You have to find a place to hide, somewhere you can develop a plan. Zander will help, but you have to be smart. Don’t fall for Pyke’s tricks, not like I did.

So, Zander nodded. It was Pyke who did this to you?

In his way, Ashur turned to look at Zander. "He sent a woman, another sorcerer who masked her identity. She came to me playing an innocent, desperate girl in need. I fell for it. I took her into my home and tried to help her. She bound me with a powerful spell until Pyke could arrive and work his own dark magic. I’d say I got off easy, all things considered. I don’t think he knows the extent of what I’ve done to hide and protect Rhea’s boy. If he did, I would have been tortured and forced to reveal his location…forced to tell Pyke all I know of things to come and the details of the ancient oracle. He doesn’t know Rhea relayed information about the battle and warned me there was a curse. He doesn’t know I was the one who got in the way. I was the one that impeded their efforts to kill the boy.

Pyke doesn’t know I helped Luna and Tyler kill his mentor. Everything I did, was done to fulfill the prophecy. I have failed at so many things, but I did guarantee Rhea’s boy would grow into a man. I suppose that’s something. Now, you Zee... it’s up to you to ensure his success. Do whatever is necessary to prepare him. Beckett and the others must defeat the enemy."

Are the two of you completely insane? Beckett frowned. Sorcerers? Curses? What’s next? Witches and cauldrons? You’re uttering nonsense and I don’t have time for this. You have exactly five minutes to say whatever you have to say to me. Then, I’m leaving and I’m not coming back.

There’s so much, Ashur closed his eyes in pain. And not nearly enough time. I’ve gathered some things... in that satchel over there. Take it with you tonight, guard it with your life and be on the lookout. Pyke’s not as powerful as Dughall was, but his powers are growing. I was able to protect you, but my actions have also put you at a disadvantage. Pyke knows what he can do... you have lived in the dark. You have not yet discovered your gifts, have not learned to control them, to use them, and cherish them. Once you do, it will take time to hone them, to embrace them, and master them. Zander can help with that, if you will let him.

Nice, Beckett moved to the open doorway. Apparently, the games will continue until you breathe your last breath. I’m done. Rest in Peace — I guess. Even that seems generous from where I’m standing. He marched out the door and considered leaving but decided to wait for Zander on the front porch.

He’s not ready for this, Zander observed. He’s so stubborn and unyielding. He’s going to fight it...every step of the way. You say he’s going to lead our group into battle and defeat the enemy. But how? He rejects all that we are.

Zander, my boy, Ashur smiled. I love you dearly — as if you were my own son — but you never did have a lick of faith. Beckett rejects our world because he was never given the opportunity to embrace it... not yet. The spell his mother used to protect him, the spells I continued to use — they have blocked him completely. I fear, once I am gone, the force of it all is going to hit like a tsunami — suddenly and violently. With such great power, he won’t know how to handle it. He is powerful, I have felt it, worked to hold that growing force back and still... he can feel it. The power, the energy, the force of his true self — it surrounds him like a coat of armor. It’s what Pyke used to find him tonight.

If that’s true, it would be better to keep him away from his mother’s house, but we both know that’s impossible, Zander glanced at the vacant doorway. And with that spell broken as well... are you sure he can handle the onslaught?

He’ll have to, Ashur patted Zander’s hand. Now, go out... take a minute to settle the boy, then come back. We have much to discuss. I’ve come up with a few ideas on how to handle things in the short term. Long term, we both know the battle will come and the Titans are going to be prepared and angry. Hatred is a very good motivator, but love is stronger. You share that with Beckett, don’t lose sight of it. No matter what he says or does, don’t let him break that bond. Now go, there isn’t much time. I’m fading fast and Pyke and his minions are not far away.

Zander stepped onto the front porch and moved in next to Beckett. You need to go — now, he said softly.

I need information, Beckett disagreed. I need to know why you developed a close relationship with someone you know betrayed me. You know how I feel about that man, you know what he did to me, and still... you care for him. Why? How could you do that, knowing the impact it would have on our friendship?

You have no idea how much I wish we could stand out here — for hours if necessary— and hash all of this out. But, we can’t. Ashur is dying and Pyke is closing in. We’re all in danger, Beck, Zander paused, stared into the darkness then sighed. We’ll have that conversation. Soon, I promise. But right now, you need to leave. You need to get as far away from this place as you can possibly get. Don’t go back to the office, don’t step foot in your apartment. My place isn’t safe, either.

Beckett bit back another sarcastic remark when he saw the fear in Zander’s eyes... and the grief. You’re not leaving me a lot of options here.

Zander hesitated but his approach had always been direct, he didn’t see a reason to change that now. We both know you don’t need any.

He didn’t, Beckett realized. There was nowhere else to go, no other option and they both knew it. He nodded but remained silent.

I’ll meet you there as soon as I’m finished, Zander turned and took a step toward the door. There’s a caretaker, Luna and her son, Tyler — they’ll let you inside. We can talk in the morning.

Did you do it for the money?

That stopped Zander in his tracks. No, I did it for love, he whispered. Zander took another step then spun back to face Beckett. You... him... it was all for love. I know you don’t understand that, can’t understand it. Not now, anyway, he shrugged. We’ll have that talk, at the lakehouse — not here. Right now, Beck... you need to go. I’ll join you as soon as I can, but it may be a while. Don’t wait up. Then, he did walk away. He silently made his way back into the cabin to join his mentor — his friend — his family — to wait."

Beckett took several steps forward, determined to get away from this place, set on escaping: Ashur, Zander, the memories of his mother, all of it. But the instant he slipped behind the wheel of the sleek black car; he froze. Realization hit and anger surged through him. Zander said Pyke and his men were on their way here. Seriously? The man expected him to flee, to run away and hide like a helpless child? Had the idiot gone completely mad? Beckett Prescott was no coward. He would not abandon his friend to face five dangerous men alone. Knowing Zander expected him to do just that, infuriated him.

Zander stepped into the room and frowned. Ashur had pushed himself into a sitting position. His face was deathly white and sweat dripped down his forehead, but the man was determined to... well, Zander didn’t know what the intense look of concentration and determination was for; but he wouldn’t have it. Get back in bed.

We need to leave, Ashur said in dismissal. Beckett has decided to wait for you and if Pyke gets his hands on that boy...

Zander frowned. I’m supposed to meet him at the lakehouse.

Ashur froze then nodded once in acceptance. I suppose it was always meant to end there.

What do you mean Beckett is waiting for me?

He’s not a coward, son, Ashur softened. Fate is a stubborn and sometimes cruel thing, isn’t it? Help me into that wheelchair. We don’t have much time.

Zander leaped forward when Ashur made a move to stand on his own. He reached out and gripped the frail man’s elbow then helped him settle into a nearby wheelchair. There was no use arguing. Ashur Neaman was just as stubborn as Beckett Prescott. Neither man would back down; and apparently, Zander would once again get stuck in the middle.

Once Ashur was situated, he focused on Zander. I truly am sorry for all of this. None of it belongs to you. He reached up and gently patted the hand that was resting on the handle of the chair. We just need that satchel and the box I slid beneath the bed there, he pointed to the foot of the bed.

Zander sighed, moved toward the bed and slid out a large, intricately engraved wooden box. Once he set it on Ashur’s lap, he moved across the room, snatched up the satchel, then shoved the chair forward. Loman and Morann?

I sent them and their partners home, Ashur assured him.

Back to Australia?

Yes, Ashur nodded. They’re safe now, Pyke will never locate any of them.

*****

Beckett glanced up and spotted Zander wheeling his uncle out in a chair. He sighed, climbed from the vehicle, and opened the back door. The accommodations aren’t that comfortable. I should know, I just experienced a harrowing ride back there all the way from my office out here to... where are we, anyway?

About ten miles from your mother’s place, Ashur whispered. It took effort, but he was determined to survive at least a little longer. There were things the boys needed to know, and he was the only person still alive that could help. Once Ashur was settled into the back, Beckett took the wheel.

Instead of climbing into the passenger’s seat, Zander rushed back to the front door of the cabin. Ashur smiled; Zander was making a point. The powerful immortal easily closed the tiny opening that had been left in the intricate ivy stenciling. The chalk drawing ran the circumference of the building and had been left open for just this purpose. With a quick swipe, the cabin could be magically secured in an instant. Ashur closed his eyes and silently said goodbye to the many memories that swamped him, knowing it was the last time he’d see this place.

Zander shoved the small piece of chalk he’d snatched off the nightstand into his pocket and leaped off the porch, around the car, and slid into the passenger’s seat. He slammed the door shut just as the ivy began to grow, within seconds the cabin was completely consumed by thick vine. He glanced at Beckett and smiled, satisfied. Seemed as good a way as any to introduce the man to reality.

What in the...

Just drive, Zander ordered. Pyke is closing in. We need to put space between this place and us. If we get lucky, we just might cross over the property line before he catches up. If we’re not so lucky... well, it’s been a helluva ride.

Zee, Beckett couldn’t take his eyes off the cabin... or the intricate vine that seemed to magically appear before his eyes. He forced himself to look at his friend. What did you do?"

I had to protect the cabin, Zander shrugged. I’ll come back later and clear it out. For now, just drive. Head down that overgrown trail. It eventually connects with the main highway that leads to the lakehouse.

Beckett shifted the car into gear and started slowly down the trail. He waited, silently expecting his uncle to protest. He didn’t, and that confused Beckett even more. No threats? I mean, the court order says I have to stay away from the place until I die or the world ends, whichever comes last.

"I’m