Fire and Ice

By Erin Sankey

The adventure continues from the first book NaLee. Dragons become humans to protect Frances. The sheriff becomes more sinister, and heads down a dangerous path leaving him to become deranged, and vanish. Ashantis Aunt Evangeline give Frances a taste of the secret world of Voodoo, while NaLee receives her blue pearl. Frances gets to see the majestic world of Atlantis and find the recherch it holds, a world that has never been touched by man. More danger, more mystery, brings you to wanting more!!! The third and last book of the series will be available some time in the next 2 years.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jul 6, 2011
• ISBN: 9781462863006

Erin Sankey

My name is Erin Sankey I have already written NaLee the first book of the series, and I am hoping that you enjoy Fire and Ice as it brings you through daring fun and sinister twist and turns. I started writing these books because I felt that mermaids needed a makeover. I grew up in Chicago, and I have always enjoyed the scenery of Lake Michigan, I always wondered if there were mermaids of the lake. I am a massage therapist by trade, and I am a mother, I love being with my family, and I am an animal lover as well. Hope you enjoy.

Book preview

Copyright © 2011 by E.J. Sankey.

Library of Congress Control Number:   2011906476

ISBN:      Hardcover      978-1-4628-6299-3

                Softcover       978-1-4628-6298-6

                Ebook           978-1-4628-6300-6

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to any actual persons, living or dead, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

Rev. date: 06/14/2013

To order additional copies of this book, contact:

Xlibris Corporation

1-888-795-4274

www.Xlibris.com

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87197

CONTENTS

Chapter 1:   First Day of School

Chapter 2:   Manatee’s

Chapter 3:   Preparing for Sin Weekend

Chapter 4:   Voodoo

Chapter 5:   The Party

Chapter 6:   Alone

Chapter 7:   The Tunnel

Chapter 8:   Halloween

Chapter 9:   Nerve

Chapter 10:   Surprise Visit

Chapter 11:   Thanks Giving

Chapter 12:   A Night in New Orleans

Chapter 13:   The Ceremony of the Pearl

Chapter 14:   Learning how to walk

Chapter 15:   Atlantis Explained

Chapter 16:   Fire and Ice

Chapter 17:   Shopping

Chapter 18:   Graduation

Chapter 19:   Chicago

Chapter 20:   The Sheriff Takes a Vacation

Chapter 21:   Fun

Chapter 22:   Sea Dragons

Chapter 23:   The Plan

Chapter 24:   Evangeline

Chapter 25:   Mini-golf

Chapter 26:   The Calm Before The Storm

Chapter 27:   Gone

Everything you do in life

Has a ripple effect and

Helps pave the way to

Your future

CHAPTER 1

First Day of School

It was 6 am and the first day of school for Francis, he thought he would hang out with NaLee before heading over to the mainland. The weather was still warm out the water was perfect. I am starting my first day of school today, I am a senior woo whoo. Just to let you know, I have to go over to the mainland everyday until three. I won’t be gone all day just for part of it, then on Tuesday and Thursday night my tutor Ceayan is coming to tutor me. NaLee sat there with a frown on her face I’m going to miss you, but I understand. Do you think you could do your homework over here and teach me how to read? That would be so much fun. Nothing would make me happier, anything to be with you. NaLee blushed as Francis kissed her, before he headed back to the house to get ready. When he got back to the house James made up a special breakfast for him. Here you go Master Francis, my special recipe pancakes and some freshly squeezed juice hope you enjoy them. Francis sat down and looked at them. They smelled delicious, he dug in, Oh my mmmm, they taste better then they smell. Thank you James this is so nice of you. Thank you Master Francis, it was my mothers recipe. Francis heard some footsteps headed his way, he turned his head to see who it was. Emma came into the room holding a small box, she sat down close to him. I want to give something to you, I saw it and I thought of you. She said handing him the box. He put down his fork and took it from her and opened it. He sat there staring at what was in the box, it was a pair of keys.

Francis looked at his Grandmother with excitement in his eyes, Are these what I think they are? Emma smiled and took his hand What do you think they are for? Francis got up from the table and gave his Grandmother a hug. Jeez, gram, thank you, CAR KEYS thank you, thank you, thank you! She sat him back down and looked at him Not just any car Francis, it is your Grandfather’s El Camino, he kept it in storage and it is in mint condition. I hope you enjoy it as much as he did, she said in a stern tone. Francis couldn’t believe his ears El Camino, I am getting an El Camino? Oh no way. This is to good to be true. He was feeling a little light headed. Emma smiled, she took some of the heavenly pancakes and put them on her plate. Good I’m glad you like it, it will be waiting for you as you arrive on the mainland. Oh sweet, I get to drive to school! He got up and gave his Grandmother another hug Thanks again Grandma, you spoil me. Emma hugged him back Happy belated birthday Francis, I can’t believe you are 17 years old, she said looking him in the eye. Have fun, but be careful Francis, ok. Yes, I promise I will. He hugged again Thank you. Emma let go of him and looked him in the eye, Now remember if you feel at all stressed, you can always go to the nurses office and relax, she knows your situation. Francis just looked at his keys and smiled. I am grateful for your support, but I think I will be ok. I’ve had a lot of help from a lot of different people and I’m feeling very confident. That does my heart some good, I am glad that you have a handle on things. Francis walked over and grabbed his school bag he gave his Grandmother one last kiss on the cheek. Well I think I have everything, James is waiting for me, I will come right home after school and tell you how everything went today. Sounds good Francis, I will be here and we will go out to dinner, tonight and you can drive. Saweeet! I can’t wait talk to you tonight love you Gram, and not because you spoil me, but because you are here for me.

Go on, get out of here, and have a great day, she said giving him a swat on the butt. Francis smiled Bye Gram, have a good day, see you tonight. When they reached the mainland Francis got off the yacht and immediately spotted the car. Is that the car James? James looked over at it Yes it is Master Francis go and have fun, give me a call when you get to the docs and I will come and get you. Sound’s good James, I will talk to you later he said as he headed over to the car. Francis looked at it, it was a sleek black El Camino with thick red racing stripes on the hood of it with a cherry red interior. Francis got in and took a minute to get to know the car. He looked at the original radio and programmed it to his favorite music. He pumped the breaks a few times to see what they felt like, then he started the car, it started up in a low growl, it sounded good. Francis put the car into reverse and backed out, the engine was smooth the car was powerful. It was an awesome piece of machinery and he knew he had to treat it with respect. Francis arrived at school and found parking spot, parked, he got out of the car, and sat on his hood and looked at the school. Other kids were there even though it was a still a little early.

As he was sitting there, a girl came over and started up a conversation with him Hey there, your new here aren’t you? Francis smiled Yes, what gave that away? The fact that you’re driving a car that I haven’t seen before, and that this is a small school and this is the first time I’ve seen your face around here. You got me, hi my name is Francis, he said holding out his hand. Kristine, she said shaking his hand. Well Kristine, what is the school like? Oh you know, same old, same old. Kids, books, teachers, no different then any other school. Francis gave her an understanding look and then looked back at the school. So, what kind of extra curricular activities are there? Oh wow there’s too many to list, but they have sign up sheets in the office. Cool, cool. Maybe you can join shop with me, and we can work on cars together. By the way, nice El Camino, she said winking at him. Francis smiled, when the first bell rang, Well, I have to go to the front office and get my schedule, I’ll talk to you later. Nice to meet you, he said as they walked into the school. He headed over to the office. Yah, definitely I’ll talk to you later, she shouted after him. Francis entered the office and walked over to the lady behind the desk Good morning, my name is Francis Hennessey and I am here to get my schedule. The lady typed his name into the computer and printed up his schedule Here you go, your first class looks like it in room 203 advanced Biology, that’s upstairs and to your left. Thank you, he said as he took the schedule and looked at it. Advanced Biology, Calculus, Home room, Chemistry, Lunch, Art, Reading, and then French. It was going to be a busy year. He walked over to the bulletin board with all the after school activities and looked at them. As he read over them, two peeked his interest, shop and riflery, he signed up for both of them. Then he went to his first class.

It was more challenging than he thought it would be, and he was loving every minute of it. Homeroom came around and announcements were made, and roll call was taken. He found out that the activities he signed up for were to be posted by the end of the week. Lunch time rolled around and he found a table that was not taken and sat down, Kristine came over and sat next to him. Hey, how’s the first day going? Oh you know same old, same old, teachers, book, schedules to follow. Kristine giggled a little Hey, why don’t you come and join us over at our table and you can meet some of the others. Francis gathered up his stuff and joined her over at the other table. Kristine introduced everyone. Francis this is Adam, Alex, Erin, Jade, and Max everybody this is Francis. Hey there Francis, so where are you from? Francis sat down I am from Chicago, and I came to live with my Grandmother over on Ceytone Island. There was a dead silence as everyone looked at him. Oh no way, Alex said breaking the silence Isn’t that like haunted and stuff?

Francis sat back and took a deep breath, he was annoyed with the subject by now but did not show it. Yah no, it’s not haunted just has a ton of history and stuff like that. Really, like what? Erin asked with curiosity. Francis smiled Well like pirates and secrets. Ooough, that sounds like intriguing. So did you see the sign up sheets in the front office? Kristine asked. Yup, I sure did and I signed up for riflery and shop. Kristine smiled Oh yeah, we can work on cars together. Awesome, I love working on cars, it relaxes me. So, tell me Francis why did you come to live on your Grandmothers Island? Suddenly Francis understood what his Grandmother was talking about being overwhelmed. Um, I came to live with my Grandmother because I lost my parents in a tragic accident. The table fell silent again Oh wow, jeez, I am so sorry are you ok? Honestly no, but like they say life goes on and little by little I will get better. I lost my dad last year to prostate cancer Adam said trying to make Francis feel better. I found out that my mother is a lesbian and she got married to a woman, Jade said. Francis realized that he was not alone and that everyone has something in there life that was hurtful, it was making him feel better. The bell rang they all gathered up their things. Hey do you want to meet us at the diner down the street? We all go there to hang out. Actually I promised my Grandmother something, how about tomorrow? Yah cool sure, we all meet up over by the flag. Francis smiled Cool, I’ll meet you there tomorrow.

Francis sat through his last class, French class and before he knew it school was out. He was walking towards his car when he heard his name being called out. Francis turned around and looked to see who it was. It was Sheriff Maddadogi sitting in his cruiser looking at him. Hey Francis could you come over here for a moment please? he asked. Francis was a little shocked to see him. He walked over to him. Get in, the sheriff said. Francis looked at the sheriff and hesitated for a moment. Come on I won’t bite, I promise. Francis got in but was very uncomfortable about it. The sheriff drove off So I see you got yourself some new wheels there, huh Francis. Francis just sat there not saying a word. Awe, why with the long face there France, cat got your tongue? What is it that you want? Francis asked. Ah, a man after my own heart, getting to the point no beating around the bush. The sheriff turned down the deserted road. I saw that there was a detective that came over to your Grandmothers house, what did he want? Suddenly Francis went from feeling uncomfortable, to if he answered the sheriff in the wrong way, something bad might happen to him. He thought of something to say in a careful and thought out manner. He came over because he had some questions about something my Grandmother witnessed. Francis, Francis, now you know what happens to little liars, they get punished. Now let’s try this again, why was the detective at your Grandmothers house? Francis was down right scared by now, anything could happen, but he kept his cool.

He took a deep breath No, really there was something that happened, and my Grandmother witnessed it. He came over to see if she could help in identifying the person. The sheriff nodded his head Ok fine, keep the lye up that’s just fine, but remember, I know things that you will never know and all I would like to do is help you that’s all. After all I am the law and that is what I am supposed to do, help. Francis was not buying it, it was a just a little too weird that they were going down a deserted road, and the sheriff was acting very weird. All of a sudden the sheriff came to a halt, Francis’s heart jumped into his throat he did not know what was going on. He still kept his cool demeanor, he didn’t want to show any fear. The sheriff nodded his head toward something. Look over there, Francis, he said shaking his head. Awe what a shame, a little woodland creature seems to be hurt. The sheriff got out of the car and walked over the an injured bunny, Look at the poor thing, its suffering. He picked it up buy the ears and showed it to Francis, See Francis, its leg seems to be hurt. Francis watched in horror as the sheriff snapped the poor rabbits neck. It seemed like an eternity that they were sitting there, the sheriff with the dead rabbit, and Francis in the passenger side of the cruiser. Then the sheriff tossed the carcass and smiled while looking at Francis and got back into the car. We couldn’t let the poor thing suffer, now could we? Francis couldn’t hide the fact that he was scared anymore, it showed in his face. What’s the matter Francis? Looks like you’ve seen a ghost. Francis didn’t know what to do, he just hoped and prayed that he was going to make it back to his car alive.

The sheriff just laughed Awe come on now, buck up. Francis realized that if he didn’t go along with the program he may never get back to his car, so he forced a smile. So what do you think of the El Camino? Francis tried to ask in a calm tone. The sheriff laughed Now that the spirit there Francis, see, I’m not that bad a guy. That is one sweet ride there son. It’s your Grandfathers isn’t it? I remember when he bought it, I was with him. Francis stomach tightened up he felt nauseous, he didn’t know where he was and he didn’t know what to expect. He seemed to be in shock not really paying attention to what was happening when the next thing he knew he was right next to his car. You have a good night now, the sheriff said tipping his hat. Francis came to his senses. He shook his head and looked around Son, are you ok, there you go looking like you’ve seen a ghost again. Francis snapped out of it and got out of the car and shut the door, the sheriff rolled down the window. It was nice talking with you, we should do it again. Francis didn’t know what to do, he just stood there then he fumbled for his keys and got into his car. He was sitting in the driver’s seat just trying to focus, when he heard a familiar voice. Hey there dude, what’s going on? Francis slowly turned towards the voice and saw that it was Moe. He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. He didn’t want to bring Moe into his problems. Hey Moe what’s up. Whoa, nice wheels are they yours? Francis nodded his head slowly Yah, there mine they once belonged to my Grandfather. This is sweet! Can we go for a ride? Yah, sure get in, I’ll take you for a spin. Francis felt that if he got his mind off of what just happened, he might feel better.

Moe hopped in the car, Francis couldn’t hold it in anymore and tears just rolled out of his eyes. Moe just looked at Francis Dude, you ok? Actually no I’m not at the moment, something just happened and I don’t know what to do about it. You wanna talk, or something? France wiped his face off Um, you know what I’m just going to go home, I’ll talk to you later. Yah, I’ll talk to you later I hope you feel better. Moe got out of the car, Francis drove off and alls he could do was think about what just happened. He called up James and told him he was ready to come home. James came and got him, and on the way over to the island, alls Francis could do was think of was how nice it would be to be with NaLee at the moment. As soon as they docked Francis told James that he was going to be over at the lagoon and that he would talk to his Grandmother later. Is everything alright Francis? Francis didn’t say anything he just looked at James. James didn’t understand, Well, if there’s anything I can get you, don’t hesitate to ask. Francis just nodded his head Thank you James, that’s very nice. He turned and headed on over to the lagoon and called NaLee over. Hey there Francis, how was your first day of school? Francis took off his shirt and sat down. You’ll never guess what happed to me today, he said in a low voice. NaLee gave him a confused look I have no idea, what? He buried his head into her shoulder That man is psychotic. Who? He just held NaLee and didn’t say a word. You can tell me when you are ready Francis, you can tell me when you are ready, she said in a soothing voice. The sound of the waves hitting the shore was peaceful and comforting. NaLee was feeling soft in his arms, he could hear her heart beat. Tears rolled out of his eyes, it all seemed to be way too much for him to handle. NaLee felt his tears rolling down her arm and started kissing them away. She kissed his cheeks and then on the lips, Francis kissed her back. He held her close as they sat there in a kissing embrace, it felt good.

Just then he heard James calling him Francis, Master Francis, where are you? Francis put his forehead on hers, I have to go, but I’ll see you soon I promise. NaLee smiled and pushed herself back into the ocean just before James came through the threshold of the garden. Ah Master Francis, your Grandmother would like to see you, she is a little concerned about how you came home so late and then proceeded to the lagoon so fast. Francis stood up and grabbed his shirt Sorry, I needed to get something off my chest. The sheriff came to pay me a visit and I didn’t want to worry my Grandmother about it. Oh, what happened Francis, is everything alright? No James, everything is not alright, but I don’t want to worry my Grandma either. Do you see my dilemma? James stopped dead in his tracks and looked at Francis Oh dear, I do see what you are talking about, but you can’t keep it a secret from her forever, you eventually have to tell her. Francis closed his eyes and took a deep breath I know, but it has to be the right time, I don’t want to upset her more than she already is. Well what did he do? James the man is psychotic, he picked me up after school and I think he threatened my life, and here’s the kicker. There’s nothing I can do about it, he’s the sheriff. Oh Master Francis that’s awful. Like I said I do not want to worry my Grandmother, and I do not know how to bring it up to her so it doesn’t. James was worried himself and wanted to do more for Francis, but he didn’t know what exactly. They walked back to the house in silence, James feared for Francis’s life. Just before they entered the house Francis stopped James. I know what I said to you is scary, but it will be ok, I don’t think anything will happen to me.

Master Francis what you told me is very serious and I do not think this should be kept from your Grandmother, I think she should be told right away. Francis knew that James was right Ok, but let me tell her in my own way, please? Very well, just to let you know we are headed off to the mainland to go out to dinner. She wants to hear all about your first day of school. You know what James, I have an idea I will be fine I just thought of something. Oh, and what would that be Master Francis. Francis stopped all together and looked into James’s eye’s Please, just trust me, I will be fine, Grandma does not have to know, and if it gets to dangerous, I Francis Hennessey give you full permission to rat me out. James did not like that idea at all. He felt as though Emma should know immediately, but gave Francis the benefit of the doubt, and left it alone. Francis went inside the house first and gave his Grandmother a hug Hi Grandma, sorry I was so rude, however I needed a moment to myself. I hope you understand? Emma came over to him and kissed him on his cheek Hi Francis, I was just worried that everything went wrong and you didn’t want to worry me. No, no, everything went great, I met some new friends… . Wait, wait you can tell me all about it when we get to the mainland and go out to eat dinner. Francis smiled and said no more My lips are sealed Grandma. Emma giggled So, do you have a place in mind as to where you would like to go? Um, let’s try that new one that just opened up its got ribs and steaks and the fabulous salad bar. Ooough, that does sound good, let me go get my purse."

Francis turned around and looked at James, he just shook his head and walked out to get the yacht ready to head on over. Once they got to the mainland Emma got into the passengers side of the El Camino and Francis drove them to the restaurant. The car runs as smoothly as I remember, what a machine, she said running her hand over the dash. Francis felt a little better knowing what he was going to do and relaxed. Yah thanks gram for the car, it is an amazing sweet ride, he said in a smooth calm tone. Emma smiled Good I’m glad you think so, because your Grandfather loved it to. They arrived at the restaurant, Francis parked and they went on in. The host sat them at their booth and handed them their menus. Your server will be right with you. Emma took the menus Thank you dear. Emma then turned towards Francis Ok now tell me all about your day I am ready. But before he could start the waitress came over and took there drink order. I’ll have an ice tea, Francis said. And I’ll have a strawberry daiquiri Emma said. The waitress left the table. Francis looked at the menu as he spoke Well I made some new friends, and I signed up for some after school activities like shop and riflery. My language class is French, and well they have me in advances classes and my first day was over all, a good one. Emma waited to hear some more from him but that seemed to be it. Is there anything else, how were your teachers, is there anything you need or are missing for school? The teachers are teachers, there nice. He shrugged his shoulders I am happy that I have advanced classes it keeps me on my toes, and I am enjoying being with kids who are also smart. I didn’t think I would, I don’t know what I was thinking. French class is cool, it’s not that hard of a language. And the friends that I met, Kristine, Alex, Adam, Erin, Jade and Max, they all seem pretty cool. Emma smiled but behind her smile she felt as though he was hiding something from her. Something that he seemed to be afraid to tell her, but she didn’t know what.

The waitress came back with their drinks and took their orders, once she took their orders Emma headed up to the salad bar. She took what she wanted and returned to her seat. Something about Francis was nagging at her, but she couldn’t figure out what, but then she thought to herself that he would tell her when he was ready. It was silent the rest of the dinner. He caught on that his grandma had an idea that he was hiding something from her and felt bad, but the plan he had in his head made him feel better. After the quite dinner Emma and Francis made it back to the house. On the way over Emma asked Francis the question that he was dreading Is everything alright Francis, is there anything you would like to tell me? Francis just smiled I’m fine gram, everything is just fine. By the way dinner was very good, I wouldn’t mind going there again. Emma got the hint loud and clear, so she just backed off. Yes it was good food I’m glad we went, she said as she patted him on the shoulder and walked towards the house. Francis took the opportunity to walk over to the lagoon and talk to NaLee about his plan.

Hey Francis how are you feeling? Francis sat down on the rocks I’m feeling much better and I have an idea that might just work. Oh, and what plan do you have? I was wondering if Onyx could keep an eye on me after school in case anything might happen? NaLee sat back I have to ask her, but I’m sure she will be alright with that. Why Francis what is going on? Ok I didn’t want to worry anyone, but the sheriff came and got me from school today and I think he threatened my life. No, I know he threatened my life. He took me down a deserted road and took on a whole other character, it was scary. Oh jeez Francis I am so sorry that that happened. I will definitely talk to Onyx and I know she will be there watching over you incase anything happens to you. I have a feeling this is just the tip of the iceberg. She snuggled into him, they watched as the stars each made there appearance in the night sky.

Francis leaned into her and kissed her I have to go, I don’t want to, but I have school in the morning please understand. NaLee gave him one last hug I don’t want you to go either, but I understand. Francis stood up and watched her swim away before heading back into his house and getting ready for bed. The next morning James made him breakfast and his Grandmother made sure he had everything, while James took him over and he drove himself to school. The day was better than his first day the sheriff was nowhere to be seen. He was getting into his car when someone tapped him on his shoulder. Francis turned around to see who it was. To his surprise it was a person standing there with a note in his hand. Francis took the note and read it:

I saw what happened yesterday

Francis looked at the kid with a confused look Are you deaf? he signed. The boy nodded his head yes. Francis spoke and signed to him at the same time Can you read lips? The deaf boy nodded his head yes. What are you talking about that you saw what happened? The boy brought out a pen and wrote something else down.

With the sheriff, I saw what he did

And I would like you to know that

I have some information that I would

Like to give you.

Francis read the note and looked at the deaf boy Do you have a name?

Gerald

But you can call me

Gerry.

Hi Gerry I’m Francis. Francis sat on the hood of his car So Gerry what information do you have for me?

Not here, is there some place were we

Can speak in private?

Francis looked around Well I am going to meet some friends at the diner.

Alright, then meet me in the schools

Boiler room tomorrow at lunch.

Francis read what it said and agreed to it, Tomorrow at lunch in the boiler room it is, see you then. Gerry walked off and Francis watched him. As he saw him walk away he noticed this girl with long black silky hair and crystal yellow green eye’s standing over by the stairs by the school. Francis stood still, he knew he was in the school for only one day, but he knew he would have noticed someone like that. Hey Francis, what are you up to? Francis looked around, he thought that there was someone else with his name. I’m sorry are you talking to me? The girl smiled and realized her new form was new to him. She walked over to his car, and sat on the hood. NaLee told me about your situation, she started off And yes I am here to keep an eye on you, she giggled. He blinked his eye’s in disbelief Onyx, is that you!? Onyx stood up and did a little twirl, Yes, it’s me, you asked for protection and well that’s your one wish. I am here to do just that. Holy cow you’re gorgeous, I didn’t know that you could turn human? There’s a whole history there that I’ll fill you in later, but for right now some one is coming, I’ll talk to you later. Francis looked up to see who it was, it was Kristine Hey Francis what are you up to? Francis got up Oh nothing much, what are you up to? She looked at Onyx walking away, Oh nothing much, just coming to get you and see if you’re still up to coming to the diner? Yah, I was just on my way you want a ride? Very cool, yes I do. She jumped into the passenger’s side of the car and Francis drove off. They arrived at the diner and headed on in. It was a replica of a 50’s diner it was pretty cool looking. They walked over to a table where the rest