Judgment in Paradise

By Jeff D. Ellis

Sometimes paradise hides the darkest secrets.

David and Abby were in marital bliss, and had been gifted a honeymoon at the Paradise resort on the big island of Hawai'i. The newlyweds prepare to enjoy a few weeks of sun and fun. But when a guest is murdered, they discover a werewolf caught in mid transformation, murdered in a gruesome pose.

Armed with shamanic magic and the ability to shapeshift, David and Abby gear up for the investigation, with the added pressure of finding the killer before they invoke the ire of the resort’s protector. Among the suspects are a Valkyrie bounty hunter with an attitude, a mermaid with secrets, and a fox working for a Japanese goddess. The special ops agents are soon thrown into a mystery stretching beyond the veil of imagination. Each new turn threatens to carry them down darker roads and time is running out. Desperate, David considers risking everything by sending Abby home to follow leads in Seattle. Can they solve the murder before it’s too late?

Filled with monsters, mysteries, and paranormal creatures with evil intentions, Judgement in Paradise continues the heart pounding adventure of The Protector series. Sit back, buckle up, and prepare for the vacation of your life. Purchase Judgement in Paradise today!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jeff D. Ellis
• Release date: Nov 22, 2022
• ISBN: 9781005062880

Jeff D. Ellis

My novels are usually classified as paranormal romance or urban fantasy, but they're really all over the place, always with a great big dose of action and adventure. I've written two series set in modern day Seattle: Illicit Seattle (vampire romance and shady paranormal business dealings) and The Protectors (monsters and urban paranormal action).I grew up with a steady diet of reading fantasy and science fiction novels and writing computer programs. Later my tastes ran to the likes of Ian Fleming and Tom Clancy. Some of my current favorite authors are Jim Butcher, Craig Johnson, Daniel Silva, Michael Connelly, Larry Correia, Vince Flynn, Brad Thor, and Neil Gaiman.I'm a fun-loving guy with a degree in Psychology and Computer Science, with more than 30 years experience working with computers and managing IT departments. I enjoy being creative with writing, 3D printing, and woodworking. I've also been an instructor of 3D animation. One high point was being introduced by Stan Lee as part of a team at ComicCon for work on 3D animation for Iron Man and Fantastic 4 back in the 1990s.I live in Auburn, WA (Seattle area) with my wife, one demanding cat and two ferociously protective dogs.

Book preview

CHAPTER TWO

Honeymoon

On the Saturday before the murder …

After a five hour flight, David and Abby made it to the big island of Hawaii and took a rental car to The Paradise resort. It was situated on the beach with amazing views of the water. Hammocks were stretched between palm trees that invited lounging in the breeze that was carrying the scent of the ocean. The moisture in the air felt like home in Seattle.

They came upon a sign along the path that gave directions to a Heiau which was listed as an ancient place of worship. The sign wasn’t meant to invite tourists to the location, but more of warning to stay away from the place. Abby felt an involuntary shudder. Something about that Heiau gave her the shivers.

Another sign indicated a path that went between the ocean and the resort’s fresh water pool was for guests to enjoy, if they didn’t want to brave the ocean.

Abby, why do you think people would come all this way and prefer a pool to a warm ocean?

Maybe it’s for those afraid of what might live in that ocean.

David laughed and started down the path to the reception desk. In the center of the reception area was a large outrigger canoe. It had been hand-carved hundreds of years ago. On the walls were paddles used for such a vessel. Behind the reception desk was a display depicting a grouping of turtles carved from koa. The spirit of Aloha filled them. He grabbed her hand and she smiled that gorgeous smile.

Someone with a deep voice greeted them. Welcome to Paradise. I’m Ali‘i and this is Tāne. Let me get you checked in.

Ali‘i pointed to names on a list. David and Abby Seymour.

David winced a little at the powerful voice. Ali’i was a large man who could have been a Polynesian warrior in a former life, standing six-foot five with a muscular build and a scar that ran through his left eyebrow. This was a man you wanted at your side in a fight, not facing you in anger. Next to him was another large man who could have been his twin. David imagined them fighting shoulder to shoulder, holding off an invading tribe.

David smiled a little nervously. Pleased to meet you both! How did you know who we are?

The large man nodded without smiling. I make it my mission to know every dignitary that comes to our shore.

David felt a little naked. We’re not that special.

Are you not the Champion of Coyote and the Daughter of Raven? That booming voice made him wince again.

That is true … Abby squeezed his hand and he noticed she was grinning at him.

The large man nodded again. You belong here. Everyone here is blessed by the gods and one of The Veiled. You are free to be yourself in our house. This is a place of peace under the treaties and everyone is safe from harm. A place for diplomacy between peoples. He looked down at his paperwork. I see Queen Greta of the Seattle Vampires has booked you into the Royal Suite. I expect you will find it fit for your needs. Here are your keys.

David projected his thoughts to Abby. Queen Greta? I wonder if everyone that comes here puts on a mask of being elite?

Abby coughed. I guess we play along for now. I’m not so sure I’m the daughter of Raven though. Maybe he knows something I don’t.

Abby tilted her head. I thought the honeymoon suite was booked for us. We were just married and it was supposed to be a honeymoon gift.

Ali’i laughed like it was the funniest thing he had ever heard, with dark eyes that didn’t seem to be laughing. It’s no mistake. Even the blind can see you’ve been joined together for many lifetimes. Let me show you to your room on the third floor.

Ali’i came around to the front of the desk and bowed to them ceremoniously. He turned to the desk. Tāne, take their bags to the room while I give our esteemed guests a short tour. Coming out from behind the desk, Tāne grabbed up their bags with one large hand and headed off.

Paradise is my resort and if there is anything I can do for you let me know, or give a call down to the front desk and Tāne will take care of you. This way, please.

Ali‘i strode with a proud confidence towards the next room. David and Abby had to rush to keep up with him.

This is our dining area and bar. Here you can watch the Honu, sea turtles, sunning themselves before going back to the ocean. You will also find many cats and mongoose playing on the rocks.

Interesting that you said playing, not hunting.

Ali’i paused to consider David’s words, and smiled. The mongoose are interesting. They were imported from Jamaica in 1883 to control the rats in the sugar cane fields. Offspring from the original 72 were raised and shipped to plantations on other islands and now number in the thousands. But the rats only come out at night and the mongoose are only active during the day. So you see, it was not a good plan.

Huh! But they must feed off something.

The problem is they hunt the native birds, lizards, turtle eggs and such. Again, it was not a good plan. His deep voice sounded pained and angry.

Ali‘i looked out to the ocean. Try not to stare at the mermaids who sometimes join the Honu, not that I expect you would do that, but we have been instructed to let our guests know. They get cross when they think they are being objectified and you don’t want to see them bad-tempered. Speaking of bad-tempered, do you have Menehume where you come from? Our cleaning and maintenance staff is made up of Menehume.

David, he sure has your number… no gawking at the mermaids.

Who me?

Abby nudged David. Do you mean little people? We’re friends with the Dogwood People. The sister of their chief, Flower is our housekeeper. She has become a big part of our family.

Ali’i nodded. Very good, they are distant cousins. Then you understand not getting on their bad side.

The large man turned the other way and motioned. If you continue down this hallway, you will come to our health club. My apologies but the day spa is not open. I need to find new staff to run it. This way to the elevator.

They followed him into the elevator and went to the third floor. Ali‘i turned right on leaving the elevator. Everything seemed a little nicer than on the first floor.

Ali‘i led them to a door with the sign The Royal Suite.

The Royal Suite? I’m guessing this is going to be too grand for my tastes.

Ali’i opened the door for them and bowed again. This is your room. The kitchen and the servant’s room are on the right and your bedroom and study are to the left. You will find your bags waiting there. Through the far doors you’ll see the lanai with an ocean view. If you need anything, please let me know.

David reached into his pocket for some cash to tip Ali’i, but was waved off. No need David, we are all well provided for. You are our guests. Don’t trust anyone saying otherwise at The Paradise.

Mahalo, Ali’i.

Ali’i gave David a big smile.

He walked back to the front door and paused. One last thing. You should visit Kilauea once you’re settled in. It’s a magical place here on the big island.

Ali’i waved and left, closing the door behind him.

Abby opened the drapes and looked out on the ocean. David, this place is amazing! I never imagined we could stay at a place like this. Did you see that king size bed?

David nodded. It’s all first-class. I wonder how many actual royalty have stayed in this room.

David looked out to the ocean and laughed. If it wasn’t for Queen Greta, we could never afford to come here. We sure are being treated like royalty.

I wonder what the daughter of Raven stuff was all about and how did they knew you are connected to Coyote. None of this is anything Greta could have known.

There may be a lot we aren’t being told.

David, this suite is bigger than many apartments I’ve lived in. Were we supposed to bring Flower to stay in the servant’s room?

I don’t think we’re part of the real world any more. Can you imagine a place where Veiled royalty come to get away from it all and make deals with each other? It’s like everything in this resort has a magical aura. Ali’i isn’t at all Human.

I can’t see magic like you can, but I can feel this is sacred space. It must be why it’s considered neutral territory with its own rules and we haven’t seen the rule book.

I don’t think our badges will hold much weight here.

David, I think we need to visit Kilauea sooner than later. I don’t think Ali’i’s remark should be taken lightly. There is something waiting for us there.

I wonder if they have big plans for New Year’s Eve tonight? The dining area had a good group of people in it. I bet it was something to see Mermaids and Turtles sunning themselves on the rocks.

That’s sure something we don’t see at home. I expect the water here is much warmer then Lake Union or along the coast in Washington.

I expected Mermaids to have some clothes on, sea shells or something.

Abby smirked. I see nothing gets past you.

I’m a semi-trained investigator.

Abby giggled and pinched him. Don’t let them catch you gawking. We don’t need an incident while on our honeymoon.

I only have eyes for you.

Going forward, see that you do.

Any ideas on what you want to do today?

Let’s go get some lunch and maybe visit Kilauea.

***

The Kilauea volcano seemed strangely quiet. It felt like they were walking on the moon. All they could see was dark volcanic mounds with smoke raising from them. David and Abby walked across the arid surface to try and get a look at the caldera. A billow of gray smoke rose up in into the sky ten feet away.

Abby opened her senses to feel it all.

David, I think this really is the home of a goddess. I am happy we came here. Maybe we should go look at where the lava flows out to meet the sea. The raw powers coming together must be a sight to take in.

I don’t want to be burned by a gust of steam.

Off in the distance, an old lady with a cane was stumbling around the rocky ground. Help! Can you help me?

Abby and David rushed as quickly as they dared over the uneven ground to her side.

Abby looked concerned. Grandmother, are you all right? How can we help?

The frail woman looked as old as the ground they walked on. Please help me. I have lost my dog. Have you seen my white dog?

Abby shook her head. David, why don’t you look for her dog while I take her back to the car to rest.

David patted the old lady’s arm. Don’t worry, I’ll look for your dog.

Abby offered the woman her arm and helped her walk. When David saw no one was looking in his direction, he changed into a falcon and took flight.

Abby and the woman soon reached the car. Grandmother, please sit here and rest. Would you like some water? I also have some bread and cheese if you are hungry.

Thank you dear, you are so kind. I could use something to drink.

Abby opened a bottle of water and handed it to the old woman. She placed some bread and cheese on a napkin off to the woman's side so she could have it when she was ready. Don’t worry about your dog. David is excellent at finding things.

Just then, David flew over the car on his search. The old woman looked up at the falcon and smiled.

"Abby, I keep expanding my search radius but I’m not finding anything out here other than rock and steam. The thermals are hard to fly in and I am worried about the dog. How long has it been missing?"

Grandmother, how long has your dog been missing? Were you very far away?

I don’t have a watch. He should be close by. I just don’t see him.

She doesn’t seem to know.

I have traveled miles now. Unless he fell into the crater and was covered by rocks, I don’t know where the dog could be.

A white dog with gray spots walked around the car and sat by the old woman's feet.

The woman reached down to scratch behind the dog’s ears. There he is! Soot is such a good dog for coming back.

It’s okay, David. The dog showed up. Maybe it was hiding under the car.

I’m on my way back.

Grandmother, may I offer your dog some cheese and water?

That would be wonderful, dear. Soot would like that.

Abby found an old cup to put some water in for the dog and placed it on the rocky ground for him. The dog drank the water and cocked its head to the side as if to say ‘Did someone say cheese?’ Abby tore off a small piece of cheese for the dog, who sat on its hind legs and begged for it. Soot gobbled down the treat.

You are such a good little doggie.

David walked from behind the car into view.

I see you found your dog. I looked everywhere, and here he is. It’s almost like magic. David winked at Abby so that she would catch his meaning.

The old woman got up from the seat of the car. I think it might be time for some introductions. I am Pele. Welcome to my home.

The woman transformed into an alluring middle-aged Polynesian woman.

Abby bowed her head. Thank you, Madame Pele for allowing us into your home. It’s an honor to meet you.

It is I who should thank you. You gave me honor and respect when others have ignored me. You are a long way from home, Little One. I see you have been claimed by my distant cousin Raven. You have given him honor today though your actions.

Pele pointed at David. Did you think I wouldn’t notice you flying around my home? It was good of you to make such an effort to find Soot. You have my thanks.

David smiled. It’s not every day I get the chance to be of service to a goddess. I had to try.

Try you did. If you knew who I was, you had to know I could never truly lose my dog. Why did you try so hard?

It would have been a dishonor to not give it my best work.

You did well. Much better than I would have expected for one touched by Coyote. You were an honor to Jaguar today. Enough about this. You have urgent work ahead of you in the coming days.

David stared at her. Is this the work Coyote said he was loaning me out for?

Pele smiled. I didn’t expect much from Coyote’s champion, but I have decided to accept your help. I fear something is going to happen and I appoint you my arbiter of justice. You will determine the guilty and bring them to swift justice. If something happens to you, Abby will take your place.

David felt his mouth go dry. He licked his lips slowly. What would cause something to happen to me?

I think you understand the risks. Abby, I would give you a gift in return for the hospitality you have shown me, but it comes at a cost.

Abby smiled. All good things do.

I feel it’s time you knew more about your heritage. Information was withheld from you. They thought it was for your own protection, but there isn’t much you can’t handle. You are under the misguided idea that you get your strength from Veiled ancestors, but it’s more than that. You are descended from Raven’s children and when you leave this world you will go back to his lodge in the afterlife. Raven has sheltered you too much instead of trusting you. It’s time you flew on your own wings.

Abby looked up at the sky. I went to Raven in the spirit realm when I was separated from my body. It’s how I met him. It’s also when He gave me Ember to help me.

You don’t need Ember any more, but she will always be your friend.

Abby looked shocked. I-I don’t understand. Ember has helped me in many ways and is a vital part of me being able to do my job.

You have always been able to do the things Ember helps with. It was just hidden from you. That is all I am willing to say on the matter. Enjoy my island! Soon you will have work to do.

Madame Pele walked away with her dog and faded from view.

Abby didn’t want anything in