The Will of Dionysus

By Harrison Bradlow and Sean Reed

Murder at sea! When Caleb and Tess assemble their friends, acquaintances, and at least one surprise visitor for an all expenses paid vacation on a luxury yacht, all are eager for the getaway. But these comrades will soon learn just how many secrets are hidden on their ship, The Will of Dionysus. When the lies start to unravel and the guests start disappearing, the dream vacation rapidly descends into nightmare.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Harrison Bradlow
• Release date: Jul 1, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215266113

Harrison Bradlow

Harrison R. Bradlow lives in Georgia, father of 3, husband of 1. In addition to writing, Harrison enjoys running (he's contemplating training for a 4th marathon) and watching movies (right now, he's particularly looking forward to Dune Part 2). He's working on learning to play piano and enjoys going on hikes, but he hates camping. For him, nature is best viewed and visited, not slept in. He also has a dog nobody else cares for, but no matter what anyone says, he's a good boy. The dog, that is. An introverted youth, Harrison grew up on the works of Asimov, Bradbury, and Clarke, and their style and form have inspired his writing as much as Agatha Christie and Alfred Hitchcock. His writing also finds inspiration in philosophy, both classical and modern, and in the everyday life of a real person living in the real, rapidly warming, socially inequitable world. He also loves Disney World. He hopes you enjoy this novel. Sean Reed was born in Chillicothe, Ohio in 1983. Influenced by the explosion of the arts that was readily accessible through books, movies and video games, his appreciation of all mediums took hold at an early age. Sean's fascination and interest in collecting, studying and absorbing the great works that came before him culminated in this collaborative effort in the Will of Dionysus that looks to not only pay homage to those who came before but also forge new roads for those ahead.

Book preview

Prologue

HOW WELL DO WE KNOW the people around us? Do we ever really know the friends with whom we choose to share our life? Let alone our lifetime of fleeting acquaintances. Each group holds a special place in the delicate balance of trust that encompasses the cycle of life. This world of ours if fraught with many dangers. Dangers we can’t, or merely don’t, always see coming. Dangers to which we are blind in no small part due to the complacency of friendship. A delicate trust that is nearly always rewarded.

Nearly always.

One individual now draws our attention, an individual who outwardly appears akin to the countless you’ve met, with whom you’ve spoken, shared space and breath. This apparently generic but secretly noteworthy individual is awakening to the standard routine; shower, hardboiled egg, half an avocado, coffee, the news. A routine that feels at home for almost everyone: with one exception. This particular individual is soon embarking on a weekend cruise with eight acquaintances. Acquaintances who will soon be dead. Who among us would foresee danger lurking amidst the familiar embrace of friendship?

A delicate trust that is nearly always rewarded.

Chapter 1: Gute Reise

THEY’RE HERE! THEY’RE here! Tess shouted, giggling nervously as she turned to look at Caleb. She stood on the ship’s Main Deck, aside the gangplank. He looked down from the next deck up, the Upper Deck. He stood in a small glass room befitted with two chairs, numerous screens, monitors, dials, and a moderately sized faux wood steering wheel. He couldn’t remember the last time Tess had smiled so genuinely. To his eyes, she radiated more brilliantly than the sun. He found himself so entranced by her happiness that he nearly missed her signal. With the press of a button the massive ship bellowed its thunderous greeting for their guests to hear.

And probably anyone else in the marina, thought Caleb.

Trevor dropped his luggage at his side and took a moment to absorb the sight before him. From the pier he called, Hot damn, Cal! Look at this thing!

Alvena scooted past Trevor, dragging behind her an enormous rolling suitcase. It clanked over each rung on the aluminum entry ramp. Slow down, now, girl. Hey, wait up!

He grabbed his luggage and jogged up the ramp behind Alvena, but the way was narrow and she was careful not to let him pass. She teased, Move it, Trevor, last one up has to serve the others drinks all week!

That’s not fair!

Tess waited eagerly at the top of the ramp and nearly knocked Alvena overboard with the impact of her embrace. Oh my God, how long has it been!

Far too long, Tess.

Hey beautiful, how you been? Trevor threw the question in Tess’s direction.

I’m well, Trevor, and better now that the two of you have joined us. So glad you both could make it. Did you come together?

I picked this one up on my way, Trevor explained. Would have been a little faster to drive straight here from Lewiston, but popping over to Brunswick only added maybe fifteen minutes to the drive. This way I got to have some reasonably good company.

Oh, reasonably good, that’s all? Alvena replied with mock indignation.

And, he poked her in the ribs, we split the gas.

I’m just sorry Alana and Jonathan were not able to join us, Tess said. You know they were welcome.

Trevor nodded solemnly, but covered it with a smile. Yes. Alana would have loved this. You know how she likes the ocean. She just couldn’t get away from classes for the whole week. And Jon! He’d have been more than happy to ditch school. I told him that would happen over my dead body.

Caleb descended the stairs to the Main Deck and stood next to his wife. Trevor arched his back and held his head high. Clanking his heels together, he brought up his hand in a firm salute. Sir! Yes, Sir! He then began laughing so hard he was nearly doubled over.

Very funny, Trevor. You’re saluting like a Girl Scout, by the way.

Trevor’s grin was wide and very real. He stood at ease. What’s with the get up, ol’ boy, we in the Royal Navy or something?

Tess thought it would... that is, Tess and I thought it only appropriate you be greeted by a proper captain. Although I’ll admit the ascot may be a little much... Caleb adjusted the neckpiece and smirked at Trevor.

Well, I think you look simply smashing, dear, stated Tess as she leaned in and gave Caleb a small kiss on the cheek, adding in a low whisper, ascot and all.

You’ve really outdone yourself, Tess. I’ve never even seen a ship this large in person, said Alvena. I mean, cruise ships, sure, but not a private one.

Even with the size of the ship, I hope for this to be an intimate getaway for the eight of us, Tess replied. I can’t wait for you to see the rest of it. All in due time, of course! We’re all going to have such a grand time. I just know it.

Trevor playfully jabbed at Caleb’s ribs with his elbow, Say, what’s a behemoth like this run a fellow for a week? You get the promotion and not tell me? Or have you just been holding out on me all these years?

Heh, this little excursion is my and Tess’s treat, you just focus on having a good time alright.

Hey, Caleb, you up there! A hardy shout came from the dock below. The words should have been a question, but the tone made it a command. We’re coming on board, dude!

Caleb walked over to the boarding ramp. Hey, Mitch! You’re looking healthy. Hello Ana Sofia, lovely as always. I’m psyched you both could join us.

I hope we have not kept you waiting, Ana Sofia stated softly. She leaned in and kissed Caleb on both cheeks. He still found the gesture uncomfortably personal, but he knew by now she didn’t mean anything by it beyond a sign of goodwill and friendship. He awkwardly returned the kisses.

Not at all! Tess replied. Why, Caleb still has preparations to make before we can set off, and Alvena and Trevor have only just arrived. Your timing could not have been better.

Nice fucking yacht, dude. Mitch stepped past Trevor, reached out, and shook Caleb’s hand. Brother, I’m clearly in the wrong business.

Ha, I don’t know about that, but I hope you guys have a good time. Caleb replied, flexing his fingers. Still got that vice grip, huh.

Ana Sofia, you remember Alvena and Trevor, right? asked Tess.

Of course, good to see you, she said, her voice like silk. She leaned in and greeted each of them as she had Caleb.

Ana Sofia and Alvena had actually met on several occasions over the years, mostly in passing, but enough that Ana Sofia felt awkward being forced to validate it. Trevor she didn’t know quite as well, but she recognized him from an occasional get-together.

I do love Spanish culture, Trevor joked. Though please don’t tell my wife I was kissing pretty ladies on my vacation.

I’m Columbian, not Spanish, Ana Sofia replied with a smile. And that better be the only time you kiss anyone on this ship, or I’ll call and tell on you to Alana myself!

Oh, I’m so sorry! he said, blushing. His dark skin made the blush difficult to detect. Not for the first time in his life, he appreciated that being black made embarrassment a little less obvious. He pushed his wire-rimmed glasses up the bridge of his nose. About the Columbia thing. Not for kissing you I mean. How about I shut up now?

Ana Sofia and most of the others chuckled in good humor at his discomfiture.

Why don’t you all let Caleb show you to your rooms so you can settle in. We are still expecting a couple more guests, and once everyone is situated, we’ll give you a quick tour. Tess moved her body and arms while she spoke, like she were hostess of a game show or some other affair with bright lights and a large audience.

The group’s members stated various forms of compliance and were lead off down the stairs by Caleb to the Lower Deck. There are six staterooms so everyone will have their own quarters. Alvena, Trevor, your rooms are the first two, opposite one another. They’re mostly identical, but the one to starboard has a larger closet, so Tess has assigned that to Alvena.

Sexism, Trevor shook his head in mock consternation. Doesn’t she know how many pants I brought with me?

Caleb chuckled.

Ah, Alvena said. I’m down with using the boat lingo, but which side is starboard?

If you’re looking at the front of the ship, Trevor replied, pointing that way with his hand, starboard is right, port is left. Fore is forward, and aft is toward the back. It’s been a few years, I get all that right, bud?

Perfectly, Caleb agreed. And sorry about that. I guess the outfit just has me in the spirit of the sea. Anyway, these next two rooms after yours will be for our final two guests. We won’t be using the four smaller rooms at the aft of the ship. Tess and I are in the master stateroom on the next deck up. Mitch, you and Ana Sofia take the foremost one here, it’s larger than the others on this deck. It’s a little smaller than Tess and mine’s, but I think the layout is more useable. Frankly I like it more.

Yeah? Mitch said. I’ll trade you for that master bedroom.

Tess would never forgive me, Caleb said. I hope everyone is comfortable with their arrangements. All your rooms should be stocked with essentials: shampoo, soap, that sort of thing. I put a couple bottles of water in each room also. There are plenty of well stocked bars on this vessel, so I’d like everyone to make an effort to stay hydrated. Let me know if you need anything. Get settled in, and we’ll meet back upstairs in an hour. Caleb turned to head back up two flights of tightly spiraled stairs to the Upper Deck.

On the Main Deck, planted precisely where he’d left her, he could see Tess still stationed, eagerly awaiting her remaining guests like the good hostess she was.

Trevor allowed his hand to linger on the solid brass knob before slowly turning it and easing the heavy door open. He set down his luggage and fumbled for a light switch. LED bulbs instantly rewarded his success with an even glow of artificial daylight. He stepped in far enough to close the door behind him and allowed his eyes to examine the room’s every crevice.

He kicked off his boat shoes. The floor was covered in a tightly woven brown carpet that Trevor found was surprisingly, pleasantly cushy. The walls were a rather generic white. I guess that does make sense on a boat, Trevor stated to himself. He approached the door to his left. It contained a bathroom that was home to a glistening glass and steel shower and granite counter tops. The bathroom was small and efficient in design, but much larger than Trevor had been expecting on the ship. He made his way back into the main room and jumped onto the bed, burying himself in a pillow avalanche. The bed was pressed up against the ship’s hull on one side. That wall sported two porthole windows, both currently covered with blackout curtains. On the bed’s other side was a small metal table with a glass top. Decorative light sconces shaped like starfish hung on the walls. On the opposite side of the room, toward the center of the ship, was a moderately large armoire to complement the room’s small closet. Despite his earlier mock protests, he was astounded by how much space he had. There was probably more than suitable room for a month’s clothes, let alone one week’s.

That is one heck of a big TV, he smiled, grabbing the remote off the nightstand. The television hung on the wall at the foot of the bed. The engineer in him saw the room as a blueprint. That TV would be up against the same wall as the toilet, just on opposite sides.

He breathed a sigh of relaxation and flipped on the television. The display showed multiple input options, including not one, but two separate gaming consoles. I could get used to this!

At just about the same time, Ana Sofia sighed, Now this is the life, as she lay sprawled on her back on her and Mitch’s bed. She swished the cover around with her feet, worming her way into the plush mattress.  I could spend the entire trip right here...

Come on, Ana, I don’t want to spend my entire vacation trapped in this shitty little room!

Be calm, Mitch, she soothed the big man. She sat up and rubbed a hand on his back. She could reach his back from a seated position, but just barely. He sat and let her keep rubbing. Soon she was giving his neck and shoulders a gentle massage. I’ll just get a few things put away before we head back out.

Ana stood and began neatly unpacking both her and Mitch’s suitcases, placing the garments in their dresser. With her calming influence gone, Mitch was almost instantly back up on his feet, pacing about the room. Ana Sofia was struck by a memory of a tiger she’d seen years earlier at a zoo, one of the older, less well-funded zoos where they kept the animals in poorly disguised cages.

Why don’t you go back up and get some air, fix us some drinks. I’ll finish up here and come join you.

That’s why I love you, babe. See you upstairs! Mitch barely got the last word out before the heavy door swung shut behind him.

Mitch hurried up to the Main Deck. His shoulders rubbed against both the staircase’s central pole and its outside wall. Any tighter, and he’d have had to ascend sideways. He climbed as quickly as possible and burst back into the open air of the Main Deck, where he found Tess and Caleb talking to a young woman.

Excuse me, ladies, Caleb said. His back was to the stairwell, and he hadn’t heard Mitch return. I’m heading back up to the bridge.

Caleb turned, left the two woman talking, and greeted his friend at the top of the staircase. Oh hey, Mitch, you get settled in already?

Nah, Ana’s got that covered. That’s your neighbor right, Amber, no Susan... no... Barb?

You’re just making names up. Erin, and yes, she’s our neighbor. You met last summer at our place when we had that cookout, she grilled for us.

She’s a hot little number, isn’t she.

Um, I suppose so...

Erin was certainly attractive by any reasonable description, though she wasn’t the classical beauty that Tess was. Rather, Caleb found her to be cute more than any other descriptor. Very cute, even, or extremely cute, perhaps. Physically, she was Mitch’s opposite. Where he was practically superhuman in size and strength, she was so meek and frail that a stiff breeze could knock her over. Literally, Caleb had actually seen that happen; she had nearly fallen on her face. He’d come to think of her more like a little sister than anything, and so was taken by surprise at Mitch’s obvious sexual attraction.

Again, Tess, I really can’t thank you enough for inviting me! When we talked about this trip, I never thought you’d include me. It was so sweet of you.

Oh, it is my pleasure Erin, I simply would not have it any other way. This little getaway was exactly what we needed, and I couldn’t imagine it without you.

Hey Erin, this is Mitch, you met at the cookout at our house right after you moved in, said Caleb.

Of course! Hey up there! Wow, either you’re bigger than I remember, or I’ve been shrinking! Erin stated playfully.

Well, if you’ve been shrinking, I’d stop before you disappear.

Ah, I’m not that tiny, am I? asked Erin with a mock poutiness.

I’d say you’re just ‘bout the right size, answered Mitch before Caleb stepped in.

So Erin, let me get you to your stateroom so you can unpack, then I’ll head back up to the bridge.

That would be great, thanks Caleb! Talk to you soon, Tess!

Caleb lead Erin down the stairs to the Lower Deck and out of sight. Mitch strolled to one of the several lounge chairs arranged neatly on the deck and flung himself upon it. Maybe a quick siesta while the little woman gets settled.

By that, do you mean Erin, or your wife? Tess asked coldly before walking off.

As she went, Mitch peered at her over the top of his sunglasses. Wonder what that was about...

Mitch never got his siesta. He was just starting to doze when he was jarred abruptly awake by a commotion on the gangplank. More than loud enough to wake him, he felt it could have woken the dead.

I am so sorry I’m late! It was really all Penelope’s fault. It absolutely was. Someone misplaced their favorite pink scarf, and we just couldn’t leave without it! The woman’s words devolved into something resembling baby talk, No we couldn’t, could we, could we, nooo, must have our little pink ribbon, yes we do, yes we do.

Mitch rose from his chair and stared blankly at the woman. He did not recognize her.

Why, hello there, I’m Nicole. Again, so sorry we’re late. Penelope does this to me all the time!

Who’s Penelope? inquired Mitch, taking the bait.

Where are my manners! Nicole triumphantly presented a small purse. The move served to confuse Mitch more than clarify the situation, until he noticed it wasn’t a normal purse. One end dipped down lower than the other, and a small, fluffy head protruded through the opening.

Excitedly Nicole pronounced, Presenting the honorable Princess Penelope Puppiesworth of Pupwood Forrest! She is most delighted to make your acquaintance, sir, and you are?

Caleb! Tess! There’s someone here to see you! Mitch hollered over his shoulder toward the staircase.

Yip! Yip! Yip! Yip! the little dog let out its disapproval.

Oh my, you mustn’t shout like that. You’ll frighten Penelope!

Tess, having heard Mitch’s powerful bellow, hurried herself across the sprawling deck.

Nicole! You made it after all!

So sorry to be late, dear. Nicole gave Tess a peck on the cheek.

Mitch, this is Nicole, a dear friend of mine. Nicky is one of our most generous donors at the charity ball every year. And who is this adorable little pooch?

Oh God, she is going to say it again, muttered Mitch.

This is the one and only Princess Penelope Puppiesworth of Pupwood Forrest. All of her close friends call her Penelope, as you may too, once you know her better. For now you may refer to her by her whole name, or when appropriate, as Princess.

Princess Penelope Puppiesworth of Pupwood Forrest let out several more little yelps, this time from simple excitement, not irritation.

You mean to tell me I have to deal with that the entire trip? asked Mitch.

Oh my dear, why Penelope is the perfect travel companion, I assure you. Now if you’ll grab my bags and show me to my room.

What do I look like, lady, the hired help?

Come Nicole, I’ll show you to your room, and Caleb will bring your bags down momentarily, Said Tess as she took Nicole by the arm and lead her off.

Sheesh, what a nut, voiced Mitch.

Caleb was in the control room looking over various gauges and triple checking every instrument cluster. He wouldn’t be satisfied until he knew every last component on this rig was 100% ready for the voyage. He spoke aloud as he went, Fuel, check, oil pressure... check. I’ve been over everything a dozen times and I still feel like I’m forgetting something.

Tess rapped on the door, but didn’t wait for a reply before entering. She was able to enter only because Caleb was inside the room, and he’d left the door unlocked. Once he left, he’d lock it, and he had the only key. Caleb are we ready to set sail?

Just a few more minutes, Tess, I have to make sure everything is ready.

You’ve been up here alone for over an hour, darling. Our guests are all unpacked, and I even gave them a little tour without you. I know you’re a perfectionist, and I love that, I do, but if there were anything wrong, you would have found it by now.

Maybe you’re right. I just want to be cautious.

Sound the horn, Caleb. Everyone is so excited to head out.

Caleb reluctantly unleashed the full force of the yacht’s massive horn, three jarring blasts, the traditional calling card of an outbound vessel.

Tess wrapped her arms around her husband’s waist as he adjusted the various levers controlling the ship’s engine and trajectory. They began to pull away from the dock. Thank you, baby, she whispered, biting his ear playfully. I’ll let you work.

Downstairs on the Main Deck, the remaining members of the group were gathered around that level’s bar, just aft of amidships. The Upper Deck hung over it, providing shade, and allowing the bar to service the interior lounge as well as the exterior sundeck. Trevor was relishing the role of bartender.

Oh heck yeah! Cal’s taking us out to sea! Step right up, people, and name your poison, Ol’ Trevor’s going to cure what ails ya.

I’ll get my own beer, thanks, said Mitch gruffly as he bumped past Trevor. He reached into the small fridge under the bar and popped the top off of a Heineken.  

I’ll have a mimosa if you’re offering, sweetheart, said Alvena.

One mimosa for the lovely lady.

Oh that sounds nice, one for me too please, Trevor, stated Erin.

Two mimosas it is. What about you Ana Sofia, what can I hook you up with?

Oh my, it’s so early. Oh, what the heck, how about a Long Island iced tea?

Excellent choice, mademoiselle! Here at La Barre des Trevor, nous visons a plaire!

What the hell did you just say! yelled Mitch.

Err, nothing really, just that it was my pleasure... Trevor replied cautiously.

Shhh, honey, said Ana Sofia, patting his shoulder. He was just being playful.

Smart ass, showing off for my wife. And you, he shot her a sharp glance, you’re encouraging him.

Ana Sofia took Mitch’s arm in both of hers and snuggled up next to him, Baby it was just a bit of harmless fun. Relax and enjoy your beer, okay?

Hey man, no disrespect, really. I was just trying to be friendly.

It’s okay, Trevor. No harm done, answered Ana Sofia.

Yeah, no harm, said Mitch, as he tipped the bottle back and chugged the rest of it.

Trevor handed everyone their drinks, To a fantastic adventure! Cheers everyone!

Chapter 2: 지평선에 희망

THE MIDDAY SUN WAS at its highest point. The constant movement of the ship created a wafting breeze that helped to cool the exposed decks. Caleb was overseeing the gauge cluster in the control room when Trevor approached. Hey bud!

Oh hey! What’s up, Trevor?

Just checking on my friend, stranded all alone up in this little room while the rest of us drink and make merry. How far out we going anyway?

Thanks, I sure don’t mind the company. I was thinking we sail until about 5 and then just go from there. That’ll put us about 160 miles out. Then we can chill, maybe get some fishing in.

Fishing sounds good, my man. Scuba?

Absolutely. If not today, then tomorrow for sure.

Right on. Can I bring you a beer or anything?

I think I’ll hold off until tonight, appreciate it. It’s actually still illegal to drink and drive, even on a boat.

Oh, right. I knew that. Um, want a virgin daiquiri or Miami vice or something? There’s a killer blender on this rig.

Heh. Thanks man, I’m good for now. I’ll save the sugar calories for when there’s booze in it.

Alright, let me know if you change your mind. I’ll leave you to it?

Caleb slapped his hand on his friend’s upper arm. Thanks for saying hey.

Trevor stepped out of the control room and descended back to the Main Deck. Tess and the four other women were lying in the sun on their stomachs, eyes closed, except Erin who was sitting upright reading a rather large book with a picture of a clock on the cover. Tess and Nicole had unclasped their tops to avoid a tan line on their back. Ana Sofia and Alvena had more modestly kept them affixed.

Mmm, look at that view. Hot damn.

Alvena looked up at Trevor from her position on the lounge chair across from him. Ahem, just what are you looking at?

The... oh, uh... you know... with all the water... and um... the waves?

The ocean?

Yeah! That thing. Totally looking at the ocean.

Yip! Yip! The furry little dog ran through Trevor’s legs and proceeded to run around the deck in high speed circles. She couldn’t have been more than five pounds. She was wearing a tiny sunhat.

Yip! Yip!

Oh, come on, even you’re against me, Pupsworth?

The dog sniffed him tentatively until Nicole snapped her fingers. She hurried under Nicole’s chair and growled.

Excuse me, Nicole chided without so much as lifting her head, that is Princess Penelope Puppiesworth of Pupwood Forrest you are addressing, sir.

Ruff! The small dog circled in place beneath her beloved owner, before lying in the shade cast by the lounge chair.

Okay, I can see I am outnumbered here. Say, where did Mitch get off to?

Ana Sofia turned over in her chair. He was sitting at the bar watching soccer last I saw of him. Turns out we have satellite TV. She closed her eyes and said serenely, Leave it to my husband to come all this way just to drink beer and watch TV.

Sounds good to me too, actually. I’m gonna go check that out. Trevor turned around and threw his right arm up in the air, keep improving the scenery, ladies.

Caleb hopped down the spiral stair to the Lower Deck. He enjoyed getting to stretch his legs. The fact that descending the tight stairway could even be considered stretching spoke volumes of how cramped he felt up on the bridge. For all its grandeur, The Will of Dionysus was still a ship, and still had to deal with basic universal realities like mass, volume, and inertia. Space came at a premium, even here.

He knew he should be concerned. He wasn’t. Instead, it was more a mixture of annoyance and curiosity, with a dash of physical pleasure at getting to move around a bit. Trevor hadn’t been wrong about him being cooped up in a little room. He was feeling more and more like it was a prison, like he was whittling away his life while his friends and acquaintances had a grand old time without him.

Of course, schlepping out of the bridge down to the ship’s bowels was eating into their transit time. It meant he’d have to stay up later to recoup the lost minutes, or stay at his post deeper into their vacation. I could just stop the ship early, he considered. Nobody on the ship would be any good at reading their location, he determined. Although that would limit their diving opportunities. He sighed. Probably just going to spend most of my time alone in there. I wonder if Tess even cares.

Caleb, dear, she’d said after stopping by the bridge. One of the guests has had the wildest concern.

Oh? he’d replied, glancing her way quickly, and nodding a greeting, before returning his attention to the various gauges and dials. He was confident it would be something mundane, like running out of rum.

Yes. They say there’s someone aboard the ship who does not belong here. Somebody who did not come with our party. A stowaway.

That’s funny, given the circumstances.

I find it amusing, I suppose, she replied. But if it’s true...

If it’s true... he pondered. Yes, that could be troubling. They’d been at sea for