Immortals Vol. II Ra-Shin Strikes Back

By B. D. Kush

In the next instalment of the 'Immortals' series, Adley joins her non-human friends as they travel the globe in their efforts to prevent an influential organization from locating rare artifacts and a lost village of ancient beings with powerful abilities. The perilous journey tests their strength and familial bonds as they face new challenges and meet new characters while discovering how kin survive in various geographic locations and amongst different cultures. Meanwhile, Nyx sets off on a quest to solve the mysterious death of a close friend.

• Language: English
• Publisher: B. D. Kush
• Release date: Aug 9, 2021
• ISBN: 9781005143954

Book preview

Prologue

Under the bright Saudi Arabian sun, a lightly armoured vehicle travelled east along a sandy desert track. Sitting in the front of the large jeep were two armed men in tan uniforms. Quietly seated behind the men was a female figure in shorts and a white loose-fitting long-sleeve shirt. It was clear that the woman was a hostage with her hands restrained before her and a cloth hood concealing her face.

The two soldier-like figures in the front of the vehicle were co-workers named Benjamin Biggs and Wedge Thompson. Ben was a thirty-six-year-old Caucasian male with a slightly heavy build and short brown hair. Wedge was an athletic thirty-nine-year-old black man of average height and a muscular physique.

Ben drove the vehicle as Wedge sat next to him with a large map in hand. The vehicle started to slow and come to a complete stop as it approached a three-way junction with the road signs written in Arabic.

After waiting a few seconds for directions, Ben turned to his colleague. Where’s the town? he asked impatiently.

After studying the paper for a moment, Wedge lowered the map and tried to read the writing on the faded sign before replying, Go right.

About time, Ben commented as he shifted the vehicle into drive.

Well, I’m sorry, Wedge snapped sarcastically. Do you want to do the navigating? At least I have experience reading and speaking Egyptian Arabic. All you do is drive the damn car. Wedge folded the map as they drove down the deserted road. We’re an hour behind schedule. It would be so much easier with GPS.

Ben did not take his eyes off the road as he responded to the passenger. Not my fault someone smashed it in the last raid, Ben explained defensively.

But when I asked if you had your phone, why would you say yes and not mentioned that your battery was dead? Wedge snapped back.

Because I knew we had a map, Ben replied calmly. And I wasn’t waiting around camp another damn minute. We lucked out with this assignment. We should count our blessings.

Maybe for the best, Wedge agreed. "I heard they’re putting a new general in charge. The captain said this one was even more eccentric. After the last one, I didn’t think that’s possible. Where do they get these guys?"

Nepotism at its finest, remarked Ben, shaking his head. But knowing that I might request a transfer. Do you think they’ll let us stay on the ship? I don’t care if they want me scrubbing toilets. Just don’t send me back. Ben appeared genuinely worried over the prospect of returning to base camp.

We have to take the prisoner to Dammam, Wedge explained. You never know. Maybe they’ll have another assignment for us.

Dammam? Ben questioned. What are they doing over there?

Wedge glanced over at his partner, confounded. Were you even listening to the briefing? Where did you think we were going?

I didn’t give two shits where we were going, Ben said firmly. I needed out of there. That last raid was too much for me. I almost died; my life flashed before my eyes.

Wedge did not respond as he listened to his venting co-worker overstate the perils of their recent assignment.

Ya know, Wedge, Ben said with a sigh. Sometimes, I wonder if this job is worth it. If it wasn’t for the fact that it was August and Marlene’s tuition is due soon, I would never have signed up. I don’t think I can take any more of this crazy shit.

Speak for yourself, Wedge snorted. "I did two tours in Afghanistan. Compared to the real military, this job is a cakewalk. I’ll take some fire and lightning over bullets and IEDs any day."

Ben laughed. We’re in the Middle fucking East! he exclaimed. Bullets and bombings come with the territory. Fuck, in the last month alone, we entered two separate war zones to catch these creatures. If they don’t kill us, the locals will!

I don’t know why you’re whining. Our unit hasn’t had a single fatality, Wedge retorted as he scanned the area for any sign of hostiles. You have to admit, Ra-Shin gives us the tools to get the job done. There’s no expense spared when the company wants something. And I have no complaints about the money. The per diem alone pays for my nanny. We have four kids. My wife would kick my ass if I even suggested quitting this job to re-enlist. You don’t know how well you have it.

Realizing his friend had a point, Ben ceased complaining. Maybe I just need a vacation. That last raid was a close call. Something about it didn’t feel right like they knew we were coming. And now they have this woman working with them, Ben added while motioning towards the hostage. I can understand going after an invasive species, but this girl is one of us and American, for that matter.

She’s just some snoopy journalist, Wedge explained. She should consider herself lucky we got a hold of her before the local authorities. This territory does not have the best track record when it comes to the treatment of non-conforming women.

As Ben drove, he used his rear-view mirror to look back at their female captive, and a look of pity crossed his face.

Do you think we can remove the bag? Ben asked his partner. It’s fucking hot out. The last thing we need is for her to get heatstroke or something.

Wedge quickly glanced back towards the prisoner as he considered the request. The material is breathable. She ain’t going to suffocate. The captain said to keep it on until we’re on the ship.

I don’t see what the point of it is, Ben countered. You already said where we’re going. We have nothing left to hide from her now.

Realizing his partner had a point, Wedge sighed. I guess you’re right, he conceded. We’re coming up to a town anyways. She’ll draw less attention with it off.

Wedge turned around in his seat and reached back to remove the bag off the female’s head.

The female’s name was Adley Anderson. She was relieved to have the bag removed, but she could not thank her captor due to the gag in her mouth. Adley was unharmed and in good spirits, considering everything she had been through in the last twenty-four hours. Her face was red and sweaty from the bag. Her headscarf that once covered her hair had shifted and was now falling back behind her head.

Wedge attentively watched the prisoner as he studied her demeanour. Given her situation, she was unusually calm and looked like she was trying to smile with the gag across her mouth. Deciding that she would not be a flight risk, Wedge chose to give Adley a little slack.

You can remove the gag, Wedge directed sternly. But don’t say a word.

Adley lifted her bounded hands to wiggle the tied cloth out of her mouth. Happy to be breathing the fresh, unobstructed air, she took a deep breath and smiled at her captors.

Thanks, Adley said to the two men as she let out a sigh of relief.

Wedge frowned at her. I said shut it, he warned in a harsh voice.

Adley nodded and zipped her lips, successfully maintaining complete silence throughout the entire drive to Dammam.

I

August 2nd, 2017

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

On the top floor of a towering high-rise building, Kafka stood alone overlooking the city. The large wall-to-wall windows of his suite welcomed the bright morning sun, allowing it to illuminate every corner of the room, including his bright golden-coloured wings.

Kafka was a tall man, possessing very little muscle, and had a long, lean face. Despite being half Venti, Kafka possessed only dominant Aurora traits, including chin-length golden hair tied back, yellow irises, and a disturbingly pale complexion.

Having just awakened, Kafka was dressed only in a pair of white silk pants as he stood in silence, watching the people below scurry around like insects from his towering view. His enjoyment of the scenery was suddenly cut short by the sound of his room door unlocking, followed by footsteps approaching. Since he was expecting company, Kafka was not surprised when he turned to see his younger cousin, Gillies, standing at the entrance to the living room.

Gillies, on the other hand, appeared surprised to see Kafka standing before him. The copper-haired Ifrit was at a loss for words as he tried to make sense of his current situation.

Seeing the look on his relative’s face, Kafka smiled. Ah, Gillies, it’s so good to see you, he greeted as he walked away from the window to approach the sofa. How was your trip? he asked as he motioned for his cousin to take a seat.

What are you doing here? Gillies asked, ignoring his cousin’s question. He walked into the room with the light revealing his bright copper-red wings. Where’s Malachi?

A surprised expression crossed Kafka’s face. You didn’t hear about Ex’s death? he asked.

I received the group text, Gillies answered, not seeing the connection.

Given the circumstances, Grandfather thought it would be best if he took a leave of absence, Kafka explained. I was happy to volunteer my services to oversee things so Malachi could comfort Adonia. Naturally, she’s grief-stricken over her son’s untimely passing.

What circumstances? Gillies questioned, having missed a piece of the story. How did he die?

We’re not certain, Kafka replied with a shrug. Poison is suspected.

Poisoned? Gillies questioned, now even more baffled. How is that possible?

I’m just as surprised as you are, Kafka said with a smirk. He reached over to the table and poured himself a cup of coffee from a carafe. He looked to Gillies to see if his cousin wanted some, but Gillies declined with a raise of his hand.

If it is poison, Kafka continued, it appears that being half Venti is no guarantee of immunity. Look at what happened to Septimus. It’s the burden of being a half-blood, I suppose.

Sounds improbable. Any suspects? Gillies questioned suspiciously.

Kafka shook his head in disappointment and took a sip of his coffee. It’s not looking good for Malachi. He was the only one with his brother when it happened. I heard that he had invited Ex to a private meeting. Ex was supposed to be in Egypt. We didn’t even know he was visiting Malachi until after it happened.

I find it hard to believe that Malachi would kill his twin, Gillies remarked, appearing bothered by this news.

We are all shocked by this, Kafka explained. But the Council is not taking any chances. Ultima has volunteered to watch him until our grandfather can get to the bottom of this.

And I’m sure you were happy to replace him, Gillies mentioned sarcastically. Your mother must be so proud of you.

You think I want to be here? Kafka said defensively, looking surprised by the comment. "You know how much I hate the desert. The sun is not conducive to my complexion, and don’t get me started on the sand. Kafka sat down on the sofa and sighed. But I’m nothing but a team player. Just doing my part to help, as we all are."

So, why did you summon me? Gillies asked, not looking impressed with his cousin’s news.

I’ve called you here to try to establish what you and Septimus are planning behind the Council’s back, Kafka replied with a serious expression.

What are you talking about? Gillies asked, genuinely surprised by the statement.

Come on, do you take me for a fool? Kafka questioned in annoyance as he placed down his cup. We know that the notes you provided us were incomplete. Didn’t you retrieve them from our cousin?

Yes, but the originals are still in FBI custody, Gillies explained. The copy I obtained was provided by an agent Septimus’ offspring abducted.

I find it strangely coincidental that as soon as you return, we receive intel that a small group of kin and a human from New York intercepted our last raid, Kafka explained. And we have reason to believe that they have the missing notes.

It’s most likely members of a clan that tried to stop me from retrieving Moselle and Dalie, Gillies explained. They attacked the Omicron building last month. Septimus has no connection to this group.

Is that so? Kafka asked with a raised eyebrow, looking skeptical. We captured the human working with them. It won’t be long until we know the truth.

I have no reason to lie, Gillies said confidently. And there is no need to worry about Septimus. He’s too preoccupied trying to stay alive to worry about what the Council has planned.

Kafka was shocked to hear about Sepitmus’ struggles. It’s that bad?

He’s aged, looks older than Ultima, Gillies responded bluntly

He works for a pharmaceutical company, and they still have not found a cure for him? Kafka asked as he reached over to retrieve his coffee cup. But after what happened to Ex, I suppose he should consider himself lucky to be alive.

There was a moment of silence as Kafka smiled evilly at a sudden thought. Exodus certainly gave the expression, living up to one’s name new meaning! He let out a laugh before taking a sip of his drink.

Gillies rolled his eyes at the inappropriate jest. Only you would find delight in our cousin’s death, he remarked in disgust. The apple certainly didn’t fall far from the tree.

Kafka shrugged, unconcerned with his cousin’s opinion. I use humour as part of the grieving process. You should take a lesson.

Not enjoying Kafka’s humour, Gillies decided to redirect the conversation. If our grandfather believes there is a traitor amongst us, he should look no further than Nyx, Gillies suggested. She’s the one who gave me the notes and stopped me from taking the girls. She said she had permission from their father to remain with Diana. I highly doubt that considering the bounty on her head.

Interesting, Kafka said as he contemplated the news. Be sure to mention this to him when you see him. Nyx might not have been aware of this, but Victor and his clan have departed the Council. Rumour has it that they are plotting with an Undine clan to find the relics before us.

Why? What would they want with the relics? Gilles asked in disbelief.

Only rumours at this point, Kafka reiterated with a shrug. Ultima’s looking into it.

ΟΟΟΟΟΟΟ

Busan, South Korea

Inside the bedroom of a traditional Korean-style mansion located in a remote area of the city, the noticeable sounds of two people fornicating echoed out into the hallway. The couple in the king-size bed was too preoccupied with each other to notice that someone had entered. It was not until the pair heard the distinct sound of metal hitting the hard marble floor that they stopped, and their attention shifted towards the bedroom entrance.

Glaring at the two in the bed was Ultima, a slender woman appearing late middle age with long silver hair tied back and two strips of black hair hanging down the sides of her face. She had pale grey irises, a dark brown complexion, sporting a long, burgundy and black backless dress. She was holding a metal staff that had an intricate blue and silver design along the shaft. Mounted on the top was a pale blue orb.

Lying in bed with the blankets over his stomach was Malachi. He was a lean man with a tanned complexion, yellow irises, and medium-length golden locks. Next to Malachi was a younger-looking woman of Korean descent. She was holding the blankets to her neck, trying to conceal her naked body. While Malachi appeared annoyed by the sudden interruption, the woman looked startled and embarrassed by Ultima’s presence.

Out, Ultima directed the young woman as she walked across the dimly lit room to the covered window. She pulled on the blinds to allow the afternoon sunlight to flood the chamber.

Almost immediately, the light revealed Ultima’s pitch black and Malachi’s golden-coloured wings. The unnamed female took her cue to leave the room with one of the bedsheets still wrapped around her body.

Was that necessary? Malachi asked his grandaunt, unimpressed.

It’s one in the afternoon, Ultima explained, looking equally annoyed. I will not have you squander your days fornicating with random whores.

Malachi raised his hands behind his head and laid back against the headboard. It helps with the grieving process, he retorted with a smirk.

Ultima’s frown deepened. I think I liked it better when you prefer the company of men, she sighed in frustration. At least then I didn’t have to worry about all your illegitimate children.

Malachi shrugged. That’s your priority, not mine, he retorted bitterly.

Ultima moved away from the window to approach the bed, frowning. What would your grandfather say? It’s an utter disgrace to our bloodline.

Malachi rolled his eyes at the comment but remained silent.

Ultima shook her head in disappointment at the scene before her. What happened to you? I know you’ve suffered a terrible loss, but I never took you for one to roll over without a fight. I expected better from you. Are you going to let them come in and take your birthright from you?

Malachi glared at his grandaunt, angered but her comment. And what do you expect me to do? he snapped. Everyone thinks I murdered my brother! How am I supposed to clear my name when I don’t even know what happened!

Anything is better than this, Ultima said as she motioned to Malachi in bed. You have spent years working up to this moment. Are you going to step aside and give your sovereignty to Kafka? What would your mother think!

You think I wanted this to happen! Malachi exclaimed defensively. Your brother decided to replace me. Go protest to him!

I might, but first, I want to see if you’re worthy of my endorsement, Ultima explained calmly. You think the Council is going to stand behind someone who breaks when knocked down? Someone murdered your brother, and you're doing nothing about it! You were the front-runner for council leader, and with what we have planned, you’d be leading far more than a company or army. Ultima paused to let it sink in, then sighed in frustration before continuing. "I’m willing to help you uncover the truth, but you must be willing to fight."

Malachi contemplated Ultima’s contention before responding. I will avenge Ex’s death, he declared as he sat up to exit his bed.

Ultima smiled. Good, I knew you wouldn’t relinquish so easily.

Malachi took a deep breath, feeling a new sense of empowerment. And you have to admit, Emperor Malachi does have a nice ring to it, he added with a grin.

Ultima rolled her eyes. I think you’ve been spending too much time in Asia, she said before turning to leave. Now, get dressed. Your mother wants to see you.

Ultima exited the room and shut the door behind her. She did not walk far down the hallway before being approached by Adonia. The younger woman was visibly upset. Her pale blue eyes were bloodshot from crying, and her long silver hair unkempt.

Where is he? Adonia asked, her eyes watery as she held back tears. How is he doing? I want to see him.

Give him a minute, Ultima suggested. He’s getting out of bed.

He must be beside himself, Adonia said, sounding like she was on the brink of another breakdown. I can’t believe my father would think Malachi murdered his brother!

I don’t believe he does, explained Ultima. But he needs to take some action to appease the others until we get to the bottom of this. You know the punishment for killing a clan member is death.

Adonia’s grief-stricken face turned to anger. I just know Cyrene is behind this! she said furiously. She has always been jealous of me, but killing my poor Exodus, that’s a new level of crazy. He has to do something to stop her!

Ultima frowned. Do you have the evidence to back such a serious accusation?

I don’t need any! Adonia retorted. We both know she’s capable of something this horrendous. Just look at what she did to her children. She endangered their lives trying to compete with me. It’s no secret that she is envious of me.

That is true, Ultima agreed. But our clan is not short on enemies, and I would like to believe that Ex was not killed by one of our own. There are many suspects at this point, and we must not point any fingers until we have verification.

What does my father plan to do about this? Adonia demanded. And what’s going to happen to my poor Malachi?

Don’t worry, Ulric is on his way east as we speak, Ultima reassured. We’ll get to the bottom of this. You know he would never take the murder of his grandson sitting down. He will find the party or parties responsible and bring them to justice.

And where was Cyrene during all this? Adonia asked skeptically. I’m sure it’s no coincidence that father took Slater with him. This whole thing reeks of interference!

We thought it would be best if we kept them away from you and Malachi until the dust settles, Ultima explained. Stop being so paranoid. You know Slater needs a handler. Ulric is keeping an eye on him for me.

And what of the twins? Adonia questioned. Just days before it happened, Esther was bragging that they had a breakthrough. I find that highly suspicious.

Ultima sighed at Adonia’s persistence. I’ve ruled the twins out as suspects, she explained. Apart from having no motive, they had no interaction with Ex or Malachi leading up to Ex’s death. Kujo is overseeing the Sanctuary raids, and Kurai was visiting with me when it happened. I can vouch for her.

And their research? Adonia inquired hastily. Just because they didn’t do it directly doesn’t mean they aren’t accomplices.

Gabriel is looking into it, Ultima explained. She paused and gazed sympathetically at her grief-stricken niece. Don’t worry, Adonia. Ex’s death hit everyone by surprise. The whole clan has volunteered their assistance. We all want justice, but you need to be patient.

Hearing Ultima’s reassuring words caused Adonia to break down crying again.

Taking pity on her, Ultima embraced the sobbing woman. Don’t you worry, my dear, she whispered. You and I both know my brother is nothing but fiercely protective over us. You need to have some faith that he will get to the bottom of this. We will not rest until we uncover the truth.

Thank you, Adonia said as she held her aunt tight, feeling a little more at ease by her comforting words.

II

August 3rd, 2017

200 kilometres off the coast of Oman

Onboard the Leviathan ocean liner sailing near the mouth of the Arabian sea, brothers Gabriel and Gillies gathered in the private lounge. Gabriel was a tall man with a slightly larger build compared to his brother. He had wavy, shoulder-length, jet-black hair brushed back that faded to red along the hairline. Like his brother, Gabriel had a tanned complexion and bright red irises. But unlike Gillies’ heavy, custom-made jacket and pants, Gabriel was dress in more weather-appropriate attire consisting of a sleeveless black shirt and pants. 

As they waited for their grandfather to arrive, the two brothers sat casually conversing. Gillies handed his phone to Gabriel to show the pictures he had taken during his visit to New York.

Gabriel looked slightly amused when he swiped to the picture of his cousin-in-law, Lucy, contained in a glass cell during her family’s feud with Nyx. But the grin disappeared when he saw the picture Gillies had taken of their cousin sitting at his desk. 

Septimus sure does look like shit, Gabriel observed. What is that woman doing to him?

They still haven’t found a cure for him, Gillies explained. The Vita-serum prevents his condition from consuming him, but just barely. I heard his body is becoming immune to it, requiring multiple doses a week. It’s not sustainable.

Poor Septimus, Gabriel remarked while returning the phone. He’s always had the worst luck amongst us. Such a shame.

How’s the family? Gillies questioned, trying to change the subject to something less depressing. I heard your two received their first assignment?

Yes. My children are proving themselves to be valuable members, Gabriel said proudly. Did your sons enjoy the trip?

Most of it, Gillies replied. We were met with some interference trying to retrieve the notes.

Interference by whom? Septimus’ offspring? Gabriel asked jokingly.

No, it was the same clan that I hear tell is giving us trouble with the raids.

We picked up their human associate in Damman two days ago, Gabriel explained. We plan to—

Before Gabriel could say another word, Ulric entered the room. The two brothers ended the conversation and turned to their grandfather.

Ulric was a Venti with a dark brown complexion and pale blue eyes. He appeared to be at the onset of old age, with his once long sliver hair now short and predominantly white. Dressed in more local attire, Ultric was wearing a custom-made tunic and matching black pants. He approached his grandsons while holding surveillance photos in his right hand.

I obtained surveillance photos of the kin that intercepted the last raid, Ulric explained to the brothers.

Ulric handed the photos to Gabriel, who quickly flipped through the pictures before passing them to Gillies.

There’s the proof, Ulric said as Gillies examined the pictures. Diana and two Ifrits.

These two I met in Manhattan, Gillies explained as he held the pictures of the two Ifrits. They tried to stop me from taking Moselle and Dalie back. He then pointed to the image of Axel and showed it to Gabriel. Remember this twerp? He’s the one who stole our father’s pendant.

Did you retrieve it? Gabriel questioned his brother.

Gillies reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a red orb pendant on a thick gold chain that Gillies had broke in the struggle with the thief.

Gabriel smiled at the sight of their recovered family heirloom. That’s one less artifact to track down.

You said you found Moselle and Dalie? Ulric asked with a surprised expression. Why didn’t you bring them back with you?

I tried. Ask Nyx, Gillies replied with a scowl. "She said their father wants them to remain with Diana."

Then I’m sure my sister knows something about this, Ulric explained, sounding less concerned. Hopefully, they didn’t say anything more to Nyx. We have yet to inform her of Victor’s betrayal. Now he and his clan have been disbarred from the Council.

It was bound to happen eventually, Gabriel stated honestly.

Why? Gillies questioned.

Gabriel looked at his brother in disbelief. You couldn’t tell? Victor hated our clan. He always blamed us for Jacob and Godric’s deaths even though we had nothing to do with either of them. Then one of our aunts ruined his marriage, plus Slater was screwing around with his wife.

He wasn’t the only one, Gillies clarified with a grin. Pandora’s promiscuity is no secret.

And Victor’s too apparently, Gabriel corrected. That is one dysfunctional marriage.

All that may be true, Ulric agreed. But there is no point in Nyx finding out about our discord with the Lunette clan, so it’s best not to mention it to Septimus.

You have no worries there, Gabriel explained. He still wants nothing to do with us.

Nyx’s going to find out eventually, Gillies pointed out.

She has her hands full in New York, Ulric noted. They don’t have time to worry about what’s going on halfway around the world.

Speaking of New York, Gabriel interrupted. What do you plan to do with the human?

Ulric grinned. We are going to let her go. It’s her accomplices we’re after, and she will lead us to them. The Council has some questions for Diana. Even if Victor is no longer a member, it's imperative that we track her down. He stopped talking and looked at his watch. Come on. We should be going.

Why the rush? Gabriel asked his grandfather.

I left Slater in Dubai with his brother, Ulric explained.

Gillies grinned. You two have fun with that, he said as he walked towards the exit.

With Gillies gone, Gabriel turned to his grandfather. I’m unable to accompany you as well, he explained regrettably. Now that we’ve deciphered the journal, I promised my wife I would return it as soon as possible.

Yes, please do, Ulric insisted as he turned towards the exit with his grandson close behind. Her father has a lot of sway over the other members. With everything that’s been going on, it’s best not to be provoking any more allies.

ΟΟΟΟΟΟΟ

In the lower extremities of the ship, Adley had endured hours of interrogation. She did not know for how long they had kept her in that room, but after her captors gave up on questing, they moved her to a larger area lined with prison cells. As Adley walked down the range, she noticed individuals occupying a few cells.

The guard brought Adley to an empty cell with a cot, sink, and toilet. Once locked inside, Adley used the cell window to try to look around. It was apparent to her that she was the only human prisoner. Adley spotted a female with long dark blue hair and blue eyes in the cell across from her. The kin appeared a little younger than Adley’s and wore what looked like an altered Kimono-style shirt with long sleeves. In the cell next to the woman was a male