The Renegade Demon Hunter: The Shikari, #1

By Dora Blume

In the heart-pounding world of urban fantasy, where darkness lurks in the shadows and demons possess the innocent, one psychic holds the key to salvation. But she must face her haunting past and confront the very organization she once fled.

 

Sloane has spent years evading the relentless pursuit of the Shikari order. Her psychic abilities have always set her apart, making her a target. When her desperate brother pleads for her aid in stopping a wave of demonic possessions, Sloane realizes that her destiny is intertwined with the fate of the world.

 

Haunted by the unsolved murder of her mother, Sloane suspects a sinister connection between her past tragedy and the organization she should trust. The answers she seeks lie within the Shikari order, possibly even closer than she ever dared to imagine. Determined to uncover the truth once and for all, she agrees to join the fight against the encroaching darkness.

 

As she delves deeper into the perilous battle against demonic forces, Sloane's journey becomes a race against time. With her razor-sharp wit, unwavering courage, and the support of unexpected allies, she embraces her role as a fierce warrior. But her quest for answers could unleash devastating consequences, threatening everything she holds dear.

 

Prepare to be enthralled by a world where bad-ass heroines rise, snappy dialogue crackles, and the hunt for demons ignites an unrelenting adventure. If you crave a page-turning experience, filled with heart-stopping action and tantalizing mysteries, then embark on this thrilling ride today.

 

Are you ready to face the shadows? The demons await your arrival.

 

**Completely revised as of May 2023

 

• Language: English
• Publisher: Dora Blume
• Release date: Aug 28, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393726111

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

SLOANE

Sloane felt like a coil ready to spring as she stared at the face of her past. Mike, the man with the stunning dark curls, sat at the bar. He wore black slacks and a white button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows. The buttons were undone on his shirt and revealed the dark hair beneath. Sloane remembered running her hands up his toned chest. He sipped the amber liquid, oblivious of her presence. Good!

Sloane's heart pounded.

She wasn’t ready to be claimed. Not yet! She'd tried hard to ignore the vision she'd gotten of her brother. It was hard to ignore her ex-boyfriend sitting at the same bar she frequented. She clenched her shaking hands into fists.

Shots, I need a shot or ten, she thought.

Another man had taken notice of her. He was staring, drool forming at the corner of his mouth. When their eyes caught, he ran his tongue over his bottom lip, his look turning downright salacious. What the hell are you looking at? Sloane snarled.

She glanced over to Amy. What’s this guy’s deal? Sloane turned away, flipping a cascade of black hair over her shoulder.

Amy rolled her eyes. You're being ridiculous. No one is staring at you. I know this may be a news flash, but the entire world doesn't revolve around you. Amy gave her a once over. She could feel the judgment in her eyes. The chains running from Sloane’s ripped black jean shorts clattered against the metal stool. Sloane's all black was a sharp contrast to the flower sundress Amy chose. Minneapolis was going for a record at ninety-nine degrees today. The heat made them both bitchy.

Amy, I don't know what you're talking about. I'm amazing. She fluttered her lashes, stealing a glance across the bar. Okay, so don’t look, but one of my exes is sitting across the bar.

Amy immediately looked over at Mike. Sloane grabbed her arm. Stop looking over at him. I’m hoping he doesn’t know it’s me. I haven’t seen him in years. Sloane waved her glass at the bartender. He was helping a young blond man at the end of the bar. He nodded toward her.

Can we please get back to why we're here? You seriously need to lighten up. Amy rolled her eyes. I took you to happy hour, hoping you would cheer up a little. You've been so on edge lately. I don't understand why, and you won't talk to me about it. Amy placed her hand over Sloane's. Sloane had been distancing herself from everyone. After the recent visions of her brother, she’d been walling herself off. It hadn’t helped that she’d lost yet another job.

Sloane rattled the ice in her whiskey sour. I'm light, see here I am, enjoying my lovely drink, basking in the view of this fine establishment. Her eyes met Amy’s. Are you happy? I'm as light and carefree as a bird. She held her hands out to her sides and flapped her wrists. Amy rolled her eyes. Okay, I get it. I'm fine or at least I will be fine soon. Maybe I'm not the one who needs to lighten up. Smirking over at Amy, she downed the rest of her drink. The bartender was still helping the guy at the end. How many drinks did he order?

Sloane thought back to the day she met Amy. One jock they went to school with had been pulling on the back of Amy’s hoodie in the lunch line. Amy asked him to stop, but he continued to torment her. Sloane stood behind them. She tapped the jock on the back. When he turned, she slugged him in the nose hard enough to make him bleed. He went to strike back, but a teacher stopped him before he got the chance. Sloane got detention, but from that day on, they'd been best friends. Sloane shook her glass a little more forcefully this time.

Sloane, just talk to me. Amy slumped in the chair. Talking about what was bothering her broke all the rules. It would put Amy in immediate danger. No matter what, she couldn’t talk about it. Not talking to her best friend in the entire world about what was bothering her was damn near impossible.

I’m just irritated by my ex staring at me. Why is he even here? This is my spot.

Why don't you go over there and break his nose? That will teach him to look at you with that deep, penetrating stare. Amy rolled her eyes.

Sloane set the glass down on the bar hard enough to get the attention of several of the regulars sitting near them. Amy, you know I can't do that. Why are you teasing me? She pressed her lips together in a hard line. She’d gotten fired because she'd punched an annoyingly grabby guy in the nose. He'd grabbed her ass for the last time. Sloane punched him hard enough to break bones. He pressed charges, and the judge granted her a suspended sentence. If she could manage not to get an assault charge in the next six months, they would drop all charges. Otherwise, she'd face penalties for the original charge and any new charges she faced. Jail wasn’t something anyone wanted firsthand experience in.

Amy huffed out a breath. There's a party happening tonight at Paisley Park. I was hoping we could continue the night there since I actually got you out of the apartment. It'll be way more fun than this dive bar. Amy bit her lip.

Sloane turned her chair to give Amy her undivided attention. You got invited to a party? At Paisley Park? And you actually want to go? Isn't it usually me dragging you to the clubs? Sloane’s eyebrow rose.

Amy rested her hand on her hip. I'll have you know that I've gotten plenty of invites to parties. I just usually turn them down. But tonight’s party is different. It's an exclusive affair.

Sloane tipped her head to the side. Okay, I guess we're going to a party.

Amy turned on the bar stool to grab her purse off the back. Sloane got up from the stool with determination in her strut. She stopped, taking one last look at Mike, impending doom filled her. Going to Paisley Park was the worst idea ever. Erik would be meeting her there. Telling Amy that wasn’t an option. Explaining that based on a vision of the future, she knew her brother would be there to take her tonight. Mike’s presence made it all the more real. She’d scribbled down a note before leaving.

She strode over to Mike, sliding the note across the bar. Stay away from me, she whispered. He needed to get the message. Changing the future was risky, but she was willing to take it. There was no way she would go back to her family. Sloane took a step back, clenching her fist and going for a punch. Her hand stopped inches from his face. Watch who you’re staring at, she called out, knowing Amy could hear her. Turning on her heel, she strode out of the bar.

You couldn't leave well enough alone, now could you? Amy shook her head as she walked to the car. It was a show, but she didn’t need to know that.

No, why should I? He was staring at me. He deserves to be intimidated a little. Maybe I’m some crazy bitch he shouldn't be staring at. Maybe, I just got out of the asylum. Sloane smiled and put her arm through Amy's as they walked.

With you, all of those things are possible. Amy grabbed Sloane's hand.

Yeah, that's true. I hope I made him think twice about staring at some girl in a bar.

Key word there is bar. He probably had too much to drink and just couldn't keep his eyes off you. I think you need to stop messing with people so much. It'll get you into trouble one of these days. Sloane's huff was almost comical. Fine, but would it hurt you to talk to one of the guys who are ogling you? When was the last time you were in a relationship? Hell, when was the last time you went on a date?

Ah, look who's talking. I could ask you the same thing. Sloane scoffed. "Did it occur to you that maybe I don't want to date? I don't want any kind of relationship. Guys are trouble, I've certainly had my fair share of negative male role models to last a lifetime. I don't need anyone else making that kind of impression on me. Sloane clenched her hands into fists. So, not to change the subject or anything, but what time is this party?" They’d reached the car and got in.

Amy rolled her eyes. It's at midnight; we have to go change first. It's a pajama party.

What? A pajama party, really? How did you get in on a pajama party? Sloane narrowed her eyes at Amy. Amy shifted under Sloane’s scrutinizing gaze.

A friend invited me; I would normally say no, but this sounded fun.

Well, now I'm intrigued, who's this friend? Is he hot? Are you going on a date? I'm not the only one who hasn't been going out. Sloane perked up in her seat and turned toward Amy.

He's just a friend. Amy wriggled in her seat. Sloane knew in an instant a guy invited her. Which probably meant it was her brother. She wouldn’t put it past him to use his looks and charm to weasel his way into Amy’s good graces.

So not till midnight, huh? What are we doing till then? I know we have to change, but that won't take too long. What is your plan to keep me occupied until then? Sloane winked at Amy.

Amy shook her head. I thought I'd just wave something shiny in front of you, keep you busy for hours. Amy glanced over at Sloane and laughed.

Sloane glared at her. I thought we could have some fun. You don’t have to be so pessimistic all the time. I think you need more fun in your life, more experimentation. You need to be a little more like me. She sat back in the seat and smiled.

Amy’s pitch rose when she spoke, You think so? I think you need a little less of all those things, but I love you for them, anyway. Now, can we focus on more pressing issues?

More pressing issues? What’s more pressing than having fun? I can’t imagine what boring issue you think we have to talk about? Actually, how about you just keep it to yourself for now? Sloane sat back in the seat and examined her nails. Amy flew in front of the apartment, slamming on the breaks. Sloane had to brace herself on the dash before she flew into it.

Wow, okay, I will. I’m going in to change. Are you coming? Amy lunged out of the car and slammed the door.

Jeez! Sloane jumped out of the car. Of course, I am. We should always be stunning wherever we go. Amy hit the button to lock the car before heading into their brick apartment building. Amy didn’t even pause when she got into the apartment.

Sloane knew she’d been pissing Amy off more lately, but it was hard to rein in her anger and fear. If her family wanted her back, they would find a way to get her. It was only a matter of time. She tried not to think about that as she went to put on her clothes for tonight. Something that would really piss off both her brother and father seemed like the best idea ever.

Sloane stood in front of her mirror, examining herself in skin-tight black leather that barely left anything to the imagination. She was pleased with herself.

Do you have a whip that goes with your leather ensemble? Amy’s eyes were wide at the outfit that looked more like something a dominatrix would wear. How is that even considered pajamas?

Well, I would wear this to bed if I were taking the right guy with me. She winked at Amy as she bent to put more mascara on her lashes. Sloane looked back at Amy. Okay, I think I’m ready. When are you changing?

I did change. Amy looked down at her silk pajamas and shrugged.

Really? That’s what you’re wearing? It looks like a suit made of silk. Don’t you have anything skimpy or revealing? Sloane looked over to her, then rolled her eyes, knowing the answer.

Ah… no, I don’t have much to reveal, so I don’t buy anything revealing. Amy looked down at herself.

Sloane gave Amy an assessing gaze. Come on, I have something you can wear. She walked toward her closet, stepping over items on the floor as she went. She bent to move a few pieces aside, checking each. When she found the one she was looking for, she held it out in her hand. Here. The baby-doll pink was almost comical, but Amy took it. Sloane bent to dig through a few more pieces of clothing, throwing them to the left and right behind her. One hit Amy in the face and slid to the floor. Sloane reached for pink silk, grabbing the garment, holding it up. Aha, here’s the other piece. She held up the silk camisole. Now this is acceptable for a pajama party.

Amy backed away a few steps and shook her head. "Oh no, I’m not wearing that." Her eyes were wide as she continued to back away, hands up in front of her.

Oh, come on. It’s supposed to be a pajama party. Plus, isn’t there a guy you want to see there? The way Sloane’s mouth curved up made Amy cringe.

Amy held out her hand begrudgingly. Sloane smiled wide and handed over the tank. The silk tank and shorts in hand, Amy examined them like they were covered in slime. Could you find anything with less material? I’m going to freeze. She let the silk slip through her fingers into her other hand.

Oh, you’ll be fine. Just put it on; you’ll look hot. Sloane went back to the mirror.

Amy came out a few minutes later, frowning with her shoulders slumped. I feel naked. I keep wanting to pull down the shirt. She moved her hands up to pull at the bottom of the shirt, willing it to be longer. Do I look okay, at least? she looked down at herself.

Yes, for once, you look sexy. Own it. You’re beautiful. Besides, we have to make it past the bouncer, right? It helps if we’re both showing some skin. Sloane had a self-satisfied smile on her face.

Okay, we have to go, or we’re going to be late. Amy headed toward the door where she’d left her purse and keys.

I prefer fashionably late, I mean, who shows up on time? Sloane walked back into her bedroom to find just the right purse to go with her outfit. Sloane took one last look at herself in the mirror.

I actually want to get there on time. Plus, there are a limited number of people allowed into the party. I want to be one of them. Amy played with her keychain, twirling the metal pieces in her hand. The clanking became louder as Amy waited.

Sloane came out of her room and looked at Amy, who was tapping her foot and jiggling her keys. Wow, all right, I’m ready. You must want to see this guy badly, or you wouldn’t be this impatient.

Amy drove to the parking lot that was already brimming with cars. After circling a few times, they found a spot and parked. The line was long, Amy craned her head to estimate how many people were ahead of them. Sloane got in line but tapped her foot as the minutes passed. Sloane wasn’t one to wait in line. She was always let in, and she was never on time to anything. A tall guy with a staff shirt went down the line and picked out people to go in. Sloane smiled at him, and he motioned for her and Amy to join him.

Except for a few guys in full-on onesies, most everyone wore lingerie. The music was blasting, and people were dancing in front of the stage. Sloane tensed as she darted her eyes around the room. They were headed to the bar.

Who are you looking for? Amy asked.

Ah, no one; just checking the place out. Nice turnout, don’t you think? Sloane turned to talk to Amy over her shoulder as she walked. Her eyes continued to scan the crowd.

Ah yeah, I guess. Since when do you care about checking the place out? I should be the one searching the room for that guy Erik, the one who invited me here. Amy looked around the room. There was quite a crowd. Sloane stopped, and she ran into her back. What the hell? Amy glared as Sloane turned slowly to look at her.

Who invited you? What was his name? Sloane’s gaze was sharp.

A guy named Erik; he was smoking hot. I should be looking for him. Amy glanced around but stopped when she saw the look on Sloane’s face. What’s wrong?

Nothing. She analyzed the crowd carefully.

I don’t believe you. Something’s wrong; why don’t you just tell me what’s going on? Amy waited, staring at Sloane. She’d be waiting a long time.

Nothing, nothing’s going on. What’s with the inquisition? Can’t a girl check out the merchandise? Sloane smiled her devilish smile at Amy, trying for her normal lightheartedness.

Sloane stopped at the bar, ordered two dirty martinis, and turned back to scan the room. She leaned both her elbows back against the bar to get a better angle on the crowd.

Amy looked around for Erik. Ugh, I’m not going to find anyone in this crowd. She turned back toward the bar. The bartender was pouring out their drinks. He set them on the bar in front of them, and Sloane reached back to hand him a twenty.

Sloane grabbed her drink and moved to a high-top table in the back. She sat against the wall, scanning the crowd. She stopped to sip her drink, crossing one leg over the other. She reached one hand out and toyed with the stem of her glass, turning it slowly.

I don’t think I’m going to find Erik if we’re sitting back here.

Don’t worry, Amy. Erik will find you, Sloane said with authority.

Amy was getting annoyed with Sloane. What? How could you know that? She rested her hand on her hips, glaring at Sloane. Are you going to keep me in the dark all night?

Sloane looked Amy in the eye and then down at her drink. I don’t know what you’re talking about. We’re here to have a good time. I just need a drink before I show them all how to dance. I mean look at that girl. What is she trying to do, the running man? What is that? Sloane attempted for a light tone, but her voice came out too high, giving her uneasiness away.

Sloane looked at the door and then down again. Come on, Amy. I need a bathroom break. She grabbed her hand.

Amy bumped her drink, sloshing alcohol on the table. Hey, what gives? Sloane didn’t stop as she pulled Amy into the women's restroom. She walked to each stall, pushing the doors open. What are you doing? Amy demanded. When she was satisfied no one was in there, she turned on Amy.

Sloane grabbed Amy’s shoulder. Okay, I’m sorry for grabbing you. I wish I could tell you what’s going on, but I can’t. Will you do me a huge favor and leave? She paused, becoming more serious. Drive home and pretend you never knew me.

What the hell are you talking about? Pretend I never knew you? What the hell’s going on, Sloane? Amy stared at Sloane wide eyed, unmoving.

I can’t tell you, but I need you to leave before all hell breaks loose.

Ah, no, not before you give me an explanation. First, we’re going to this cool party, then we get here, and you’re acting all weird. Then you tell me I need to go home and pretend I never met you? Seriously, you’re being ridiculous. You need to tell me what’s going on. Amy put her hand on her hip as she waited.

Sloane took a deep breath. Moving to the sink, she turned on the water. Sloane splashed water from her hand to the back of her neck. She kicked the base of the sink, flinching when her foot connected with porcelain. She took a deep breath before turning to face Amy. I’m not who you think I am and if you don’t leave, you’re going to get wrapped up in a world that you don’t want to be. I promise you. I was born into this hell. You can still escape. Please, Amy, listen to me for once and leave before it’s too late, Sloane pleaded, reaching out and taking Amy’s hands into hers. Please.

CHAPTER 2

SLOANE

I can’t leave you. Why don’t you just level with me and tell me what’s going on? It can’t be that bad. We can handle it together. Amy leaned back against the sink next to Sloane. Her eyes were downcast.

Sloane threw up her hands and paced the room. I can’t get you involved. Ugh, why can’t you just listen to me for once without having to know everything? You always have to know every damn thing. Sloane stopped long enough to punch her fist into the wall. Ouch. She shook her hand, wincing.

Sloane, just tell me. Amy walked over, grabbing Sloane by her shoulders, forcing her to look her in the eyes.

Sloane sighed before pacing and talking. Fine, you’re going to find out anyway. I was trying for one last-ditch effort to save you, but no, you just have to be so damn stubborn. Fine, I’m part of the Shikari, an underground society that’s existed for centuries. We hunt and kill demons. In about forty-five seconds, my brother Erik, the one who invited you here, is going to burst through that door and try to take me back with him. I’ve been running from them since I was sixteen. Now, I must fulfill my duty, and because you don’t have enough sense to leave, you’ll be coming with me. My brother is going to assume you know everything. Oh yeah, and by the way, I have premonitions of the future. That’s why they need me back so bad. Happy now? Sloane huffed once she’d said everything. She glanced at her watch and looked expectantly at the door.

Amy didn’t even have time to react to what Sloane said because Erik burst through the door and slammed it behind him.

Finally. He leaned back against the closed door, his relief evident.

Erik, it’s been a long time, Sloane said, tipping her head in greeting.

Yes, it has. Erik moved his eyes over her. Sloane exuded a confidence that would be intimidating to anyone including her brother.

Sloane stared defiantly at Erik, communicating without a single word. Erik had changed since they’d been young when she left. He had a lean yet masculine physique and blond hair, which hung slightly over his brows. His bright blue eyes matched her own. They’d reminded her of her mother. Taking a deep breath, she hoped her pulse would stop racing. It was one thing to see this meeting happening in her vision and quite another to have her brother standing before her. Sloane’s heart squeezed. Not seeing him for years brought on a flood of emotions.

Realizing how much she’d missed him dampened her tough exterior. Sloane knew she needed to show her brother unwavering strength. She’d need to be even more stealth with her father. Amy standing next to her would be a problem when she reunited with her father. He’d use her any way he could. Sloane cursed herself for not telling Amy she couldn’t go tonight. The vision made her curious, and her selfishness won over caution. Amy would be in danger. It was her fault.

Sloane put her hand on her hip. So, are you going to take me to Bryant, or are we going to stand here all night?

Are you telling me you’re coming willingly? No kicking, screaming, or sarcasm; that’s a nice change of pace for you. Erik’s mouth rose slightly. He glanced at Amy. Huh? You must be a good friend if she’s willing to come without a fight. He walked over and gently took Amy’s hand in his to place a kiss on it. It’s wonderful to see you again, Ms. Sikes. My deepest apologies for having used you to get Sloane here. He looked into her eyes, and the corner of his mouth lifted seductively.

Sloane cleared her throat. Erik, stop messing with my friend. She doesn’t know anything. She can just go home. Sloane rolled her eyes at her brother’s antics.

Erik, still holding Amy’s gaze, said, I think we’ll take her with us just the same. If you’re protecting her, there’s a reason. I’d like to find out what that reason is. He smiled at Sloane. Come now, sis; we should be going?

"Lead the way,