Shadows of the Moon

By Damon Wade

When seven-year-old Shawn Lebeau witnesses the death of everyone he had come to know, he's thrown in a world that very few know about: the Shadow Realm. His whole world is thrown upside down and he struggles to find his place in this new world. Finding himself in the company of the very man who destroyed his home, he soon realizes the one thing he desires is to earn a place by his side and stand as one of the Forsworn.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: May 28, 2019
• ISBN: 9780359691869

Book preview

Shadows of the Moon

Lords of Night

Shadows of the Moon

Damon Wade

This book is a work of fiction. Any references to historical events, real people, or real places are used fictitiously. Other names, characters, places, and events are products of the author’s imagination, and any resemblance to actual events or places or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental

©2018 Lulu Author. All rights reserved

ISBN 978-0-359-69186-9

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

First, I want to thank Mindy, for being my partner through this entire process, and for being my research department when needed. To my brother, Alex; thank you for being my ‘creative consultant’ and the many midnight conversations. I would be remiss if I didn’t also give thanks to my good friend Tommy for answering all my off the wall questions and being my guide into the world of 1834 New Orleans. To Ryan, for helping me with the whole idea for this, and helping me bring life to this idea. I also want to thank my parents, who always supported me in this endeavor. And a special thank you to Momma Liz, for always having ideas when I needed them.

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PROLOGUE

Gone were the screams. Gone were the groans of pain. In their place, an eerie quiet had fallen over the house. The only sound to be heard was the soft flickering of the multiple candles, casting their light on all it touched. All that remained was the silence, that deafening silence.

Slowly, a young boy began to crawl out from under the debris he had been hiding under. He poked his head out, glancing around the room, searching for any sign of the source of the destruction all around him. As his hands grabbed the carpet, they felt wet. He turned his palms over, seeing them covered in blood. His breathing increased, coming in short, labored gasps. He rose to his feet, taking in the scene around him. Bodies lay strewn everywhere, the bodies of those that he had spent years with. The carpet, the walls, the furniture; all covered in blood. Mixed with the bodies were severed limbs, internal organs.

He could hear muffled voices coming from the back of the house. He wondered if the voices belonged to the source of all the carnage around him. Part of him told him to run, to save himself. Instead, he walked into the hallway, preparing to meet whatever fate was in store.

From the library in the back of the house, three men emerged, walking toward him. As they got closer, he raised his hands in front of him, balling up his fists. As they stopped, the man in the center looked at him in surprise. He knelt down, looking the boy in the eyes.

1

The brisk spring air blew in the window of the cabin, causing the curtains to flap gently in the wind. The lanterns outside cast an orange glow into the cabin. We had been in the cramped quarters for nearly a month during the voyage from Paris, keeping to ourselves as much as possible without attracting attention to ourselves. From the commotion we had heard recently, I was thrilled with the prospect that we would soon be arriving in New Orleans. I knew that we needed to keep to ourselves, but I was beginning to go stir crazy being cooped up in our quarters. Reaching up and pulling the curtain aside, I looked at the night sky. I rose from the cot I was laying on and walked to the door. Turning the handle, I stepped into the hallway looking up and down the hallway before making my way to the deck. As I stepped into the night air, I breathed a sigh of relief. I closed my eyes and let the breeze blow through my hair. I inhaled deeply, detecting the scent of cheap whiskey, oil, and diesel fuel. As I opened my eyes, I saw the captain standing at the rail, watching out over the water. I turned and walked toward him.

Bonsoir, capitaine.

The captain turned to see me approaching. Bonsoir, monsieur.

A beautiful night.

Yes, it is. I was beginning to think we wouldn't see you or your party until we made port.

My apologies, but our female companion took ill shortly after leaving Paris.

Nothing serious, I hope.

Nothing to worry yourself over. Just a case of seasickness.

I trust she's getting better?

Indeed she is.

Several minutes passed without a word being said as we both looked out over the dark water. Far off on the horizon, I could make out a faint glow. Captaine, how long until we make port?

He sighed heavily. I would say about another hour, maybe two.

If you don't mind, we'd like to be the first to disembark when we make port.

Monsieur, I can't guarantee you that.

I can, I muttered under my breath. I turned and walked back to the cabin, slowly opening the door, and stepping inside. Markus was lying on the couch to my right, sleeping soundly. Jobe was curled up on the floor, with his head resting on his front legs. Over the centuries, Jobe had mastered the art of appearing to be asleep, but part of his gift from Hades was that he never actually slept I sighed and rolled my eyes as I shook my head. No matter how many times I told him to stay in his human form, he never listened.

Jobe’s canine form was truly a sight to behold. His body was nearly five feet long, and when standing on all four legs, his head stood level with my shoulder. And that head. It was as wide as my waist. His eyes were deep set in his face, an intimidating sight. But what really stood out about his form was his skin. If he had been covered with fur, he could pass for an abnormally large wolf. There were knobby, bony structures that ran from the base of his neck, down his spine and to the end of his tail. His skin was a deep blackish, ashy color, with lines of red that ran all over his body. Every time I saw him this way and looked at his skin, those red lines reminded me of cracked lava.

I walked to the doorway that led to the bedroom and watched as Kaitlyn lay sleeping on the bed. She seemed so at peace when she slept, her eyes fluttering under the lids. I hated to wake her, so I decided to let her sleep for just a while longer. I returned to the stateroom and sat on the cot, leaning my head back against the wall and closing my eyes, allowing myself a moment to relax.

My dream was filled with visions of a woman in pain, surrounded by people milling about. I heard her scream as another voice yelled, could hear a baby cry out. A woman spoke, though I wasn’t sure what was said. I recognized the language, but the words were spoken so softly, I barely heard them.

I opened my eyes, those words resounding in my head. My eyes darted as I thought about the visions. Hearing a snort, I looked over to see Jobe raise his head and look at me as he cocked his head to the side.

I'm fine. answering his silent question. I ran my fingers through my hair and leaned my head back against the wall, trying to make sense of the dream. The language was so familiar, but I just couldn’t remember the meaning of what I had heard. I stared at the ceiling as if the answers to my questions would be written there. Shaking my head, I tried to clear my thoughts. From outside, I could hear the crew shouting to each other as they began preparations to dock. I looked over at Jobe. Wake Markus, it's almost time to go. Rising to my feet, I walked into the bedroom. Shaking Kaitlyn's foot, I watched as she slowly opened her eyes. She raised her head and looked into my eyes. We're getting ready to dock.

Kaitlyn smiled. Give me a moment.

I bowed my head. Of course, Dijai. As my gaze swept across the floor, I noticed a boot on the floor by the far side of the bed. I leaned over and saw Tobias sleeping on the floor, chuckling to myself and grabbed his boot. He shot up, knife in hand, ready to fight. Easy, old friend.

Mi dispiace, capo.

I helped him to his feet. Come, we're almost ready to dock.

Tobias walked past me and out of the bedroom. I turned to Kaitlyn. I'll leave you to get ready.

I'll only be a moment.

I bowed my head. Take all the time you need. Following Tobias out, I watched as the team gathered their things, stuffing them into their bags.  Out of the corner of my eyes, I saw Jobe curled up. Jobe. When Kaitlyn's done, use the room to change back.

Jobe whined loudly.

I will not let you leave this room that way pointing to his current form.

He huffed and stood up, stretching his front legs. I listened to Kaitlyn moving about in the bedroom. Markus, take Tobias and get our things out on deck.

You've got it.

They grabbed our bags and walked out. Just as the cabin door shut, Kaitlyn opened the bedroom door and stepped out. Are we ready?

I moved out of her way. Markus and Tobias just took the bags out. I turned and looked at Jobe, grabbed his clothes off the couch and tossed them through the door, on to the bed. Get dressed. I opened the cabin door and held it open for Kaitlyn. She stepped past me and into the hallway. I stepped into the hallway and started to close the door, stopped and leaned my head back into the cabin. Be quick. I shut the door and stepped past Kaitlyn, and made my way out on the deck. Seeing Markus and Tobias standing at the bow of the ship, I placed my hand on Kaitlyn's shoulder and ushered her to them. We stood there, not a word being said, for several minutes; watching the city draw closer. Footsteps approaching behind me attracted my attention. I looked over my shoulder and saw Jobe walking up to us.

As intimidating as his hellhound form was, his human form was no better. He stood nearly seven feet tall, with shoulders so broad, he had to turn sideways to fit through a standard size doorway. His arms were simply massive. We had never been able to find shirts that fit him; always having to have his shirts custom made. The same could be said about his pants as well.

I nodded as I saw him approaching. Much better.

Don't talk to me, he huffed.

I cracked a smile and returned my gaze to the city.

Excusez-moi, monsieur.

Everyone turned to see the captain standing on the deck outside the bridge, as he leaned against the railing. I yelled back to the captain in French asking what was wrong. The captain yelled down to me. I turned back to look at the port and swore to myself.

Kaitlyn followed my gaze. What's wrong?

He said there's a group of men waiting at the dock.

Kaitlyn looked at me, her face flushed with shock and fear. Who could it be?

I don't know, but I don't intend to find out. I placed my hand on the small of her back. I think it's best if we take a more indirect approach to get off the boat.

Kaitlyn nodded. Perhaps you're right.

I gently pushed her towards the aft of the ship. Markus, Tobias, and Jobe quickly followed us, carrying the bags. I gently pushed my way through the crowd that had gathered along the railing, always keeping in physical contact with Kaitlyn. We walked through the crowd, my eyes constantly searching for any signs of danger. Finally making it to the aft of the ship, I grabbed my bag from Markus, setting it on the deck and opened it. I pulled out my double swords, slinging the sheath across my back, pulled my katana out, and wrapped the belt around my waist. I hooked the lock together and adjusted the placement of the katana. As I was doing this, Markus and Tobias were busy arming themselves as well.

Kaitlyn watched, shaking her head. Expecting trouble?

I looked up at her. You should know me by now. I always expect trouble.

Kaitlyn chuckled. Will there ever be a day that you just accept things as they are?

I shook my head. The day I do that is the day all hell breaks loose.

I reached into my bag and pulled out my cloak, wrapping it around my shoulders, locking the clasp at my neck. Pulling the hood up and wrapping the cloak around me, I reached into my bag and pulled out Kaitlyn's cloak and handed it to her. As Kaitlyn put on her cloak, Markus walked up and leaned in close to me. What's the plan?

Get her off the boat, and into the city without attracting attention.

What do you make of the captain's warning?

I sighed heavily. I don't know. But I have no intention of finding out who it is.

Markus grabbed my shoulder and turned me to look at him. And what if we can't get past them?

I looked into his eyes. Then we deal with it.

A smile crept across his face. OK, then.

2

As the boat pulled up to the dock, several crew members came to the aft of the boat near us and grabbed the tie-down rope and threw it to the dock workers. They busily tied the boat to the dock and moved the stairs up to the boat. As soon as the stairs touched the side of the ship, I quickly ushered Kaitlyn to them and led her down the stairs to the dock. As we stepped on to the dock, I pulled on Kaitlyn's shoulder. She slowed her pace and allowed me to step in front of her. Slowly, I led the way down the dock, scanning the crowd for any hint of danger. As we reached the main pier, I saw a man searching the crowd. I pushed Kaitlyn to the side, out of view of the stranger, and motioned for Markus.

He walked up beside me. What's wrong?

I pointed to the man. He's searching the crowd.

Markus leaned over and looked. Looking for what I wonder.

I turned and looked at him. Us.

Then let's go around him.

I shook my head. My guess is he's not alone.

What's the plan?

I sighed as I watched him. His eyes searching the crowd. Take Tobias and see if you can get past him. If you can, I'll send Jobe.

What about you and Kaitlyn?

I'm not worried about that yet. If all of you can get past him, then I'll try to make my way past him with her.

But you just said you don't think he's alone.

Yes. But right now, I'm just concerned with getting past him.

Markus nodded. Alright, but I'm staying close if I get past him. He turned and whistled. Tobias came up and the two began making their way toward the pier. I motioned for Jobe.

As he came up, I briefly explained what I wanted him to do and watched as he made his way slightly behind Markus and Tobias. When they had gone about halfway, I turned and placed my hand on the small of Kaitlyn's back. She looked at me curiously. I thought you were waiting to see if they could get past him.

I gently pushed on her back to start her moving. My hope is he gets so distracted with them that we can slip right past him.

And if he doesn't?

A smile tugged at the corners of my mouth. I carefully made my way along with the crowd, being careful not to cause a commotion within the crowd I was following. The closer we drew to him, the more nervous I became. I watched as Markus and Tobias walked within feet of him. The man watched as they passed, then returned his gaze to the crowd. My gaze shifted to Jobe walking amongst the crowd. He gently pushed past a family, making his way closer to the stranger. He bumped into the man and immediately started talking to him, distracting him from watching the crowd. I took that as my signal and pushed Kaitlyn quickly through the slow-moving crowd. Just as we got to the man, I could hear the conversation.

Jobe patted the man's shoulder. My apologies, once again.

The man nodded. I told you it was nothing. The man started to look back over the crowd.

Jobe shook his head. Please, mister. I insist you let me buy you a drink.

The man turned back to Jobe. I assure you that isn't necessary. Just as he turned his head back to the crowd, our eyes met.

Damn, I swore to myself. The man shrugged Jobe's hand off his shoulder and began walking toward us. Stepping in front of Kaitlyn, my hand grabbing the hilt of my katana.

The man pointed at me. You! Stop!

The crowd separated, leaving a clear path between us. I looked the man over, searching for any signs of his intent.

He was dressed very refined. He wore a white collared button up shirt with a black vest over it. His trousers were black with very small white pin stripes running down the legs and were tucked neatly into the black riding boots he wore. A chain was clasped to his belt and ran to the right pocket on his vest, obviously where he kept his pocket watch. His hair was combed back, with a small amount of oil to keep it in place. Hanging on his left side was a very ornate looking French made sword.

I stood in front of Kaitlyn, my grip tightening on my katana. I have no issues with you, sir.

The man nodded. That may be, but I'm here to escort you to the Conclave.

My eyes searched his face. We have no reason to go with you. We have our own business to attend to.

I'm afraid I must insist. His left hand drifted over and hovered close to the grip on his sword.

If you came to fight, I'd suggest pulling your sword. If not, step aside and let us be on our way.

Suddenly, the man unsheathed his sword and readied himself. I do not wish to fight you, but I cannot let you pass.

I glanced and saw Markus and Tobias with their hands on their swords, quickly returning my gaze to the stranger. I promise you don't want to do this.

Then save us all the trouble and follow me.

I told you before, we have our own business to attend to.

I'm afraid that business will have to wait, a female voice rang out.

I looked up the hill and saw a woman and another man walking toward me. The man was dressed just like the man standing in front of me. The woman was wearing a long white dress that had long puffy sleeves and a high neckline. She wore a silver cross around her neck. The conclave has requested your presence.

Respectfully, I must decline. We are here on a very important matter.

The woman's eyes narrowed. This isn't a request you can ignore.

A smile tugged at my lips. I'm not ignoring it, I’m declining.

I watched as Markus and Tobias made their way around, and stood behind the trio, their hands on their swords. Jobe walked over and stood behind me, but in front of Kaitlyn.

The woman's face hardened. Either you come with us, or you die here and now.

A growl resonated in my throat. Before she could react, I used my speed and crossed the distance between us and lifted her by the chin. You think you know us? You think you know me? You know nothing. I could end your life without thinking twice.

Guardian, release her, Kaitlyn said in the old language

I glanced over my shoulder at Kaitlyn. Every fiber of my being said to kill all three of them and be done with it, but I was compelled to obey. I returned my gaze to the woman, reluctantly releasing my grip and let her fall to the ground. Make no mistake, you live only because she wishes it.

Kaitlyn approached, pulling her hood back. Tell me your name child.

The woman rose to her feet, with the help of her companion. She brushed off her dress before looking at Kaitlyn. My name is Aimee.

Beautiful name. You have my apologies; he's always been a little overly aggressive. Let us talk.

Aimee smiled at Kaitlyn. She turned to me, her smile disappearing off her face. As she walked past me, I noticed the two men start to walk with her. Let’s keep it just the two of them, shall we?

They glared at me, obviously annoyed with my brazen attitude. They talked to each other, before stepping back. Markus, Tobias, and Jobe walked over and stood with their backs turned to them.

Markus looked over his shoulder, studying the two men. He turned his head and looked at me. Do you hear what they’re saying?

I rolled my eyes and turned to watch Kaitlyn talking with Aimee. I’m more worried about her.

I wouldn’t worry too much; Kaitlyn can take care of herself.

I turned to Markus. I want you to think about what you just said.

Markus smiled. My mistake.

I returned my gaze to the meeting and strained to listen to what Kaitlyn was saying.

…but we are here on a very important issue. And unfortunately, it is very imperative that I meet with the coven to bring this matter to a close.

I understand. But what you must also understand, is I was sent here to bring you back to the Conclave. If I return empty-handed, the repercussions will be severe.

Then I propose an arrangement. Once our business is concluded, I will meet with the Conclave.

I cannot guarantee that they will approve of this, but I will take your proposal back to them.

Kaitlyn smiled nervously. That is all I could hope for.

Aimee bowed. I thank you for helping in this matter.

Kaitlyn nodded. If I may, sometimes words can be more powerful than actions.

Aimee looked at her puzzled. I don’t understand.

Kaitlyn’s smile returned to her face. If I hadn’t acted as swiftly as I did, all three of you would be dead. He is a loyal guardian and ally, but he is also quick to act if he feels I or himself are threatened.

He may have tried, but I assure you…

Before she could finish her sentence, I was standing beside her. I assure you, you would be dead.

She flinched as she realized how quickly I appeared. Make no mistake about this…

Every muscle in my body tensed. You should learn to keep your peace when you are hopelessly outmatched.

Her eyes narrowed. Do you?

A smirk pulled at the corners of my mouth. I don’t know, haven’t met my match.

The disdain she harbored for me showed on her face. I’ve heard you were cocky. I guess the rumors turned out to be true for once.

The smirk didn’t leave my face. I don’t think of it as being cocky. I like to think of it as self-confidence. Either way, I’ve proven time and time again that none can match my talents.

One of her companions drew their sword. I’ll take that challenge.

My eyebrows raised in surprise. So the little papist wants to have a go? I slowly unsheathed my sword. Come on, boy. Let us see how long you can last. I slowly stepped toward him; debating with myself if I should have a little fun or just end it quickly.

That’s enough, Kaitlyn ordered in the old language.

Dijai, I’ll not kill him, I answered back. I stood in front of him, keeping my eyes locked on his. I’ll let you make the first move.

He quickly moved toward me; swinging his sword over his head, he swung at my left side. I blocked his attack with ease, and grabbed him by the throat, pulling his face closer. Is that the best you can do?

I threw him backward, his feet trying to keep him upright. He tripped and landed with a thud. I quickly stepped toward him, bringing my sword down to strike at his shoulder. Suddenly, his companion blocked my attack with his sword. I looked up at this new threat and took a few steps back. Well now, this might actually be fun.

Scrambling to his feet, they squared off with me. They attacked together. A smile spread across my face as I fended off each attack they launched at me. I stopped one attack, and swept the man’s legs out from underneath him, before quickly shifting to the remaining man. Catching his attack and twisting my sword; I slide the blade alongside his throat. The man froze in fear.

I warned you. Now, you pay the price.

I stepped back, twisted on my heel; swinging my blade around to deliver the final blow. My blade stopped just an inch from the man’s throat. Now you know where you stand. The next time we cross blades, I will not stop.

ENOUGH! Kaitlyn’s voice echoed into the night.

I swung my sword around, letting the blade rest against the back of my arm. Stepping back from the two men, a smirk still pulling at the corner of my mouth.

Aimee walked over to her companion and inspected his neck. She turned to glare at me, before looking at Kaitlyn. I will take your message back, but they will not be happy with what happened here.

She gathered her companions and headed up the hill to the city. When they reached the top, I noticed Tristan watching. He stepped aside with a bow and let them pass before he started walking down toward us.

Where the hell have you been? I snapped at him.

He pulled his hands out of his pockets and held them up. I must admit; I was curious how you would handle that. Not exactly how I envisioned it.

I sheathed my sword and walked back to Kaitlyn. Are you alright?

There was no need for that. She pushed past me. I sighed heavily and followed after her.

Tristan bowed. My queen, I’ve arranged accommodations.

Kaitlyn smiled. Thank you.

He looked at the rest of the team. If you’ll follow me?

3

Tristan led the way through the streets. I watched, as he remained in front, his head occasionally looking to one side or the other; looking for any signs of trouble. As we walked down the street, I looked back over my shoulder. Kaitlyn had pulled her hood over her head. Markus flanked her on her left, Tobias to her right and Jobe behind her. When I looked forward, Tristan had turned to look back at me.

Not much farther.

I nodded. We should hurry, dawn's approaching. As we turned the corner, Tristan stopped. I walked up beside him. What's wrong?

He pointed to a group of men standing a little further down the street. I've never seen them here.

I watched the men for a few minutes, watching for any signs of their intentions. Finally, I patted Tristan on the shoulder. It's a big city, can't know everyone here.

Tristan glanced at me out of the corner of his eye. Really? That’s what you say to me? You of all people.

I smiled at his candor. Hey, I can show restraint when the time calls for it.

Markus walked up and stood beside me. Need me to take them out?

I shook my head. Wouldn’t be wise. I looked at Tristan. How much farther?

He pointed down the street. Just at the end of the block.

I nodded. Lead the way.

He nodded and continued walking. The sky began to lighten, turning from black to a dark shade of blue. We arrived at the tavern and walked through the open doors. Tristan walked up to the counter and talked to the man who was standing behind it. After a couple minutes, he walked back and handed out room keys. I could only get three rooms, so we’ll have to double up. Boss, I assume you’ll be with Kaitlyn?

I turned and looked at Kaitlyn. She was sitting in a chair, her hood still covering her face. Thinking for a moment, I walked over and knelt at her side. Dijai, Tristan could only get three rooms. Would you feel more comfortable having a room to yourself?

She peered out from under the hood, reached out and touched my cheek. "The real question is whether you’d be more comfortable with me, or