Awakened E-Book

Vaughan W. Smith

• Herausgeber: Fair Folio
• Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
• Serie: The BloodStorm
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 435

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2023

Beschreibung

** Dive into the latest from the author of the 'Hidden Wizard' series —rated 4.4/5 stars from over 2,000 readers— and discover your next 5-star read. **

She didn't just study legends.
She became one.

Maya was the perfect student. Her life, all mapped out. That is, until she unleashed the BloodStorm.

Suddenly, magic from the myths she studied came roaring to life. Seven powerful bloodlines emerged, each granting extraordinary powers. But not without a steep price.

The cunning sage at the center of this chaos rules with an iron fist. By pitting bloodline against bloodline, he ensures that his reign remains unchallenged.

Teaming up with a gadget-loving bounty hunter, Maya finds herself navigating a perilous new world. She's become a target of the Master Sage, and for good reason: Maya is the only other person with powers from all seven bloodlines.

Can she master these gifts in time to become a beacon of hope? Or will she crumble under the weight of her own doubt, falling prey to the Master Sage's dark schemes?

Her destiny is awakened.
You'll love this urban fantasy adventure because of its twists and turns, its strong character progression, and its unique modern world where magic is everywhere.
Get it now!

Leseprobe

AWAKENED

THE BLOODSTORM

BOOK 1

VAUGHAN W. SMITH

FAIR FOLIO

Her destiny is awakened.

CONTENTS

1. The Long Sleep

2. Graduation

3. Abducted

4. A New Opportunity

5. Interrogated

6. First Job

7. The Test

8. Creature of the Night

9. A New Ally

10. Gadgeteer

11. An Offer

12. Research Trip

13. A Walk in the Night

14. Alarming Findings

15. The Ritual

16. The Impossible Connection

17. The Stranger

18. Exchange

19. The BloodStorm

20. First Class

21. Exploration

22. Punch Up

23. Fight

24. Restricted

25. An Old Friend

26. The Vault

27. Resurrection

28. A Door Closes

29. A Surprise Visitor

30. The Degeneration Field

31. Eighteen

32. A Difficult Truth

33. Fight Club

34. Qualifying

35. The New Normal

36. Opening Salvo

37. The Mastery Mark

38. Final Fight

39. A Single Strike

40. Awake

41. The Next Step

Epilogue

The Story Continues

Did you enjoy the book?

The BloodStorm Book 2: Mastered

Let’s continue the journey together

About the Author

1

THE LONG SLEEP

Maya jerked awake, panic filling her. Everything was black. She felt like she was floating.

Is this what death feels like?

Fragments of memories filtered back. The ritual, the betrayal. Her foolishness.

Maybe it’s for the best. I screwed over the entire world.

Sensing some tightness, she stretched out one leg, and it hit something.

What’s this?

After more wiggling around she realized that she was enclosed within a box. The air wasn’t fresh, but it was being resupplied somehow.

If I’m not dead, I need to get out of here.

Maya tested the surrounding surfaces, pressing them with her limbs. Her arms and legs were stiff and slow to respond. But they moved with some effort. The more she worked, the easier it became.

I’m in some rectangular container. Maybe there’s a lid?

Maya pushed above her chest, feeling a bit of give to whatever was holding her in. She threw all her weight into it, and the top opened. But the whole structure itself shifted, and she plunged out onto the icy concrete floor, completely naked and lying face down.

Not an elegant start, but at least I’m free of that thing.

She angled her head somewhat, taking in the surroundings. There was a metal pod next to her, presumably what she had been resting in. The area was only minimally lit and looked like a laboratory because of the benches and diverse machinery. The only sound was the quiet hum of the equipment.

I didn’t die, but I’ve been a lab rat? This keeps getting better and better.

“Hello there,” a male voice said from above. Maya tried to move her head to see, but the man was out of view.

“Who are you?” Maya managed.

“I’m a friend. I’ve come to help. Let me fetch you a blanket.” Maya heard footsteps as he left the room and returned soon after. She felt the blanket covering her frame. The man knelt and held her hand, giving her an opportunity to see him. His short black hair framed a face that was both kind and intriguing, his brown eyes twinkling with a hint of mystery that drew her in.

He’s good looking. Oh, why am I thinking about that? I can’t believe he found me naked and flopped on the floor like a fish.

“Take your time, Maya. I’ll wait for you in the next room.” He rose, but Maya grabbed his hand with more force, and he stopped.

“How’d you know my name?” she asked.

“I can explain everything. You can call me ET.”

“As in the alien?” Maya said automatically. ET chuckled.

“Not quite, but I am a bit out there. See you shortly.” ET walked away and soon Maya was alone again.

I hope I can start moving with more confidence soon.

She started by exercising each of her limbs and extremities, then tried rolling onto her back. It was tricky to begin with, but the muscles responded once she actually tried them. With more effort, she pulled herself into a seated position and wrapped the blanket around her body.

What has been going on? How did I get here? I can’t make the same mistakes again. I need to protect myself.

Maya sighed and tried leaning against the metal pod to stand upright. Her legs quivered but held. She almost lost her balance completely but stabilized at the last moment. From a standing position, she had a better view of the lab. It was rather compact, and all the machinery looked like it was just to monitor her.

With care, she moved through the room toward the door. Opening it, she discovered what looked like a lunchroom. There was a white plastic table circled by chairs and a kitchenette. One chair had some clothes spread over it.

“These should do the job, for now.” ET gestured to the clothes.

“Thanks, I’ll be back in a moment.” Maya steadied the blanket around herself with one hand and snatched the clothes with the other, withdrawing into the lab. They weren’t her clothes, but they were similar. Jeans and a shirt, and some sneakers. Dressing was awkward and tricky, but it felt marvelous to be dressed again.

How long was I asleep? Is this the same facility where I was kept before?

Maya spotted a reflective surface amongst the equipment and paused. She studied the reflection, her green eyes taking in the familiar sight of her shoulder-length brown hair, tousled from sleep, although her skin was a little paler than its usual sun-kissed color.

That’ll do.

She strolled out of the lab with a little more poise.

“Feeling better?” ET asked.

“Yes, thank you.” Maya pulled up a chair and sat down across from him. “I believe this is the part where you explain everything. Where am I?”

“New York. This is a secret research facility.”

“Right. How long was I asleep?”

“It depends. What was the date?” ET looked like he knew something more but wasn’t saying it.

“What’s the date now?” Maya countered. ET drew in a deep breath before responding.

“July 8th, 2039.”

“Twenty Thirty-Nine? As in two, zero, three, nine?” Maya said incredulously.

“Yes. I presume it’s been about twenty years?” ET said, watching her curiously.

“It can’t be.”

No way. I’ve been rip-van-winkled?

“I’m afraid it is. A lot has happened.” ET still stared at her, a more anxious expression on his face now. Maya suddenly reached up and touched her face.

“But I look the same, I feel the same.”

“You activated your power when you died. The LifeDeath power, that is.” ET spoke simply, without embellishing. Maya took a few moments to process the information.

“Like the bloodline?”

“Yes. They’re out there. They’re a part of everyday life now. Courtesy of the BloodStorm.” ET stood up and moved to the chair next to her.

“I know your story. I’m here to help you. But we only have limited time.” ET exhaled a breath.

“How can you? I’m sorry, but I can’t trust you. Not after what I’ve just been through.”

“Maya, what the Master Sage did to you was terrible. But it’s not your fault. It was out of your control. But what happens next is entirely up to you.”

“How can you know that?” Maya kept the tears at bay, just.

“I have bloodlines too. Many do. Here, I think you need to see this.” ET took a steak knife from the table and positioned it above his hand like he was about to cut it. But he seized her hand and drew the blade across.

“You’re crazy!” Maya wrenched her hand away and quickly stood up. Instinctively she checked her hand, and there was a fine cut along it. But before her eyes, the skin was reattaching, and within seconds there was no trace of the cut at all. Maya felt woozy and lost her balance for a moment. ET was there to support her and guide her into a chair.

“This is really happening, isn’t it?” Maya mumbled.

“It really is. If the power is frightening you, I can help dull it. It will only be temporary, but it may ease the transition.” ET gave her a sympathetic smile.

You can’t let someone trick you again. Don’t give in.

Maya gave ET a skeptical look. He sounded sincere in his desire to help, and she was gradually overcome with a feeling of warmth and trust for him. He was simply trying to help. She needed help. And if she really admitted it, the power did frighten her. Any delay would help.

“I think I would appreciate that. I’m not ready for this power.” Maya’s voice sounded tiny.

“This won’t take long. Stay seated in the chair and close your eyes.” ET stood behind the chair. Maya could sense his hands resting on the back of it.

“Now picture in your mind your greatest fear of what could happen in the future,” ET spoke the words gently and calmly. Maya fixed an image in her mind.

“How would you feel if that fear came to pass? Focus on the emotion.” ET hadn’t moved at all. He continued his words. Maya focused on the emotions. Shame. Inadequacy. Powerlessness. As she was drawn deeper and deeper, ET pulled the chair away. For a split second Maya felt like she was free-falling toward her greatest fear and bringing it to life. But it was only for a moment and was fading. She felt normal again a second later and drew herself up.

“Are you playing games with me?”

“No, absolutely not. It’s a trick of the mind. Let’s do a smaller demonstration.” ET retrieved the knife again. He motioned toward Maya’s hand, the one he had cut last time. She reluctantly offered it back to him. This time he only made the slightest of scratches in a limited area. It still stung, but as Maya watched, the wound did not close the same way.

“See? Do you believe me now?” ET had a victorious smile.

“Fine. What’s going to happen?” Maya sighed.

“I expect over time your power will regain its strength. It might come in fits and spurts. But you could pass for a normal person, provided they don’t do a blood test. Speaking of which…” ET trailed off and disappeared into another room. He returned quickly with a white device that looked like a round-cornered square coaster.

“This one is custom-built; it checks for the seventh bloodline.” ET reached out for her other palm and let the device hover over it.

“Seventh bloodline? But there are only six,” Maya said.

“Hold on,” ET said, pointing to the device. It beeped a few seconds later and three lights flashed on the top.

“That’s a yes. Good, it’s all as expected.” ET put the device on the ground and stomped down, smashing it.

“What are you doing? And why are you talking about a seventh bloodline?” Maya felt her anger building. Another man was just stringing her along, manipulating her.

“Whoa, listen. I’m being upfront with you, but I understand it’s a lot to take in at once. We really don’t have the luxury of time. The second you opened your hibernation pod, the clock started ticking. They will be coming.” ET paused, letting those words sink in.

“At least explain the seventh bloodline comment.”

“It’s obvious, isn’t it? Seven symbols, seven altars. You really think the Master Sage would tell you the truth about it? Why do you think you’re in a secret research facility?” ET grinned at her and leaned back, letting her think.

Why would you hide the existence of a seventh bloodline?

It came to her in a flash.

“He doesn’t have it. That’s why he couldn’t undo the seal himself. That’s why he kept me here and ran this whole secret lab.” The words spilled out of Maya; she couldn’t stop them. ET was nodding along.

“Good, good. I think he probably has it now, seeing as how we’ve all been abandoned down here.”

“We? You have it too?”

“Yes, I do. But it’s better that nobody knows about this and about you having it. That’s why I destroyed that sensor. You can fly under the radar.”

“Can you tell me something about this mysterious extra bloodline? What is it?”

“That would be telling.” ET winked at her. “Seriously, I can’t discuss it. You will learn about it when the time is right.”

“Well, I’m not really in a rush to go exploring additional powers right now, anyway.” Maya looked around the room, and the reality of what was happening caught up with her.

I broke the world, and I’ve been asleep for twenty years. What do I do now?

Maya noticed ET checking a watch and starting to bustle around the room.

“We’re pretty much out of time.” ET stopped what he was doing and came straight over to Maya. He held her hands and looked her straight in the eyes.

“I know your pain. I’ve dealt with him too. His obsession with power is overwhelming. When you eventually confront him, when he’s standing over you and smirking like he’s already won, can you tell him something for me?”

“What’s that?” Maya said, confused.

“Tell him that subject two sends his regards. He’ll know what it means.” ET gave her an appreciative smile. He released her hands and opened a nearby cupboard, pulling something out.

“You wear this.” He handed Maya a white lab coat. There was an insignia on the shoulder, but before she could look at it properly, she was distracted by what he was doing next. ET was putting on different clothing. A protective helmet and other equipment.

“What are you doing?”

“I need to look the part. This is all going to happen pretty quickly, I’m afraid. I don’t think there’s anything more I can help you with. The rest will come with time.” ET looked distant and preoccupied with something.

“Are you all right?” Maya asked. She could sense something was wrong.

“Just remember, I had to kill the security guard who was wearing this uniform to free you. Don’t feel bad for me. It’s the way things need to be.” ET closed the visor on the helmet and walked into the next room. Maya heard the sounds of gunfire and an explosion, and she ran over to investigate.

2

GRADUATION

OCTOBER 24, 2019

Maya stepped forward, a slight tremble in her gait. Her heart was thumping madly, and her stomach was churning. Nadia looked back and grinned.

“Hey, it’s almost our turn.” Nadia reached for her hat and realized it was missing. “Uh oh.” The Dean announced the next graduate and the entire line stepped forward.

“I thought you were holding it,” Maya said, searching around them. Everyone else was wearing their hats, or trencher caps as they were called, the yellow tassels swinging into their faces as they moved. She could see the panic on her friend’s face as Nadia was scouring the crowd.

“Your parents came a long way to get here, didn’t they?” Maya said. Nadia could only nod, her long blonde hair spilling across her face. She absentmindedly pushed it back. The Dean called the next name, and all the graduates stepped forward again. Maya made a hasty decision. She removed her hat and thrust it at Nadia.

“Here, take mine.” Maya held it firmly in front of her friend. Nadia turned, astonished.

“But…no, I can’t do that.”

“I insist. This is your chance. I’ll be back again anyway when I do my Masters.” Maya could see Nadia bite her lip with indecision. She glanced back toward the crowd.

“Just take it. There’s no time.” Maya nudged her with the hat, and Nadia took it. She straightened it on her head and beamed at Maya with her blue eyes sparkling.

“You are seriously the best. How do I look?”

“Very distinguished. Now move.” Maya pointed ahead. The last student before them was accepting their degree. Nadia composed herself and waited for her name.

“Bachelor of Arts, Major in Archaeology. Nadia Hunt,” the Dean said. A smattering of applause rose through the crowd, and Nadia walked across the stage and shook hands with the Chancellor. She paused and turned for her photo before striding off the stage.

I’m so glad she did it. I suppose I’m next.

Maya braced herself, waiting for the announcement.

“Bachelor of Arts, Major in Ancient History. Maya Mills,” the Dean announced. Maya straightened her long brown hair and stepped forward gingerly. There was louder applause than she expected, and she almost stumbled. But she was at home here, at the university. With a few steps her comfort returned, and she forgot about walking on the stage without her graduation hat. She shook the Chancellor’s hand and turned to pose for her photo. Just before she was ready to leave the stage, she glanced over at the Dean. He gave her a quizzical look, but then resumed his stance and prepared to read the next name.

I must explain later.

Maya rushed off the stage, clutching her degree, and found Nadia at the other end, waiting.

“We finally did it. Here.” Nadia offered the hat back.

“No, keep it for now. You need to wow your parents more.”

“Keep it down,” one usher hissed at them. Maya shook her head but remained quiet. Now they just had to wait.

* * *

Maya emerged from the Great Hall into the passage and swiftly negotiated her way into the Quadrangle, dragging Nadia with her.

“What’s the big rush?” Nadia laughed.

“We need to make the most of the graduation grass.” Maya chuckled and pointed. The perfect green grass was not fenced off for once, reserved for just this occasion. They took canapes from a nearby table and strolled onto the grass. Maya relished the afternoon sunlight.

“We’re officially unemployed now, well you are at least,” Nadia said. Maya looked up sharply.

“What do you mean?” she said.

“I’ve got gainful employment.” Nadia paused and smirked.

“But you said you would hold out until you found an actual expedition…” Maya trailed off when she saw her friend’s smile deepen. “No way!”

“Yup. I’m off to the Valley of the Kings. My dad pulled a few strings. I’ll be that nobody assistant probably bringing coffee, but I’ll be there.”

“That’s amazing. Congratulations!” Maya leaned in and gave her friend a hug. There was only the slightest hesitation in it.

“Thank you. I’m still stunned, but I’ve pinched myself enough. It’s happening.”

“I’m so happy for you.”

“Thank you.” Nadia paused, like she was waiting for something. After a few moments, she said, “you should come.”

“Come? To Egypt?” Maya said.

“Yes. I negotiated for another lowly nobody assistant.”

“It sounds great…”

“So, say yes. It’s only for six months.”

“But my father, he’s already written to other universities to find a suitable place for me to do my Masters.”

“Then defer a semester. That’s a thing.” Nadia leaned in and grabbed Maya by the shoulders. “You, girl, are an adventurer at heart. I’ve seen it. You can go back to studying about it all as much as you wish. But come this time. Experience the history firsthand.”

“I’ll think about it,” Maya said at last.

“Think, think, think. We both know that’s a no.” Nadia shook her head and looked around. There was a couple walking closer.

“Isn’t that your mum?” Nadia said.

“Yes. And she’s brought James.” Maya suppressed a groan, but the stony look on her face said everything. Nadia picked it up immediately.

“Is that the guy?” Nadia whispered.

“Yup. That’s the one.”

“Then why is your mum bringing him over here? You didn’t tell her?” Nadia gasped.

“No. I couldn’t. I didn’t expect this.” Maya sighed. James was the last person she wanted to have at her graduation.

Maybe I should just run away to Egypt.

“Nadia, so nice to see you and congratulations. You look stunning,” Olivia said. But her focus was on Maya. “Aww, there’s my baby girl. Come here.” Olivia hugged Maya close and then kissed her on both cheeks.

“Where’s your hat?” Olivia asked, noticing it for the first time.

“I lost it somewhere,” Maya blurted out before Nadia could say anything.

“I’m sure your father can sort it out, anyway. I brought James. I hope you don’t mind. He was just so keen to congratulate you on your big day.”

“No, that’s fine,” Maya lied. She stiffly accepted James’s kiss on the cheek and drew back.

“Congratulations! And who’s this vision over here?” James leaned into Nadia.

“Nadia.” She gave him the slimmest of smiles and he seemed to take the hint.

“So, what’s next for the great academic?” James said, beaming a wide smile at Maya.

I wish he wasn’t so suave; it makes things so much more awkward.

“Further study, it looks like. Are you away to some far-off land to play tennis?” Maya said.

“Yes, I’ll be heading over to the US. Your mum gave me some great contacts.”

“Oh, he’s exaggerating. I just mentioned a few names,” Olivia said, but she looked pleased with herself.

“Well, it was great to see you Olivia, and to meet you James, but I need to introduce Maya to my parents.” Nadia yanked Maya away, and they almost flew across the graduation grass.

“Come meet us later,” Olivia called out after them.

“Thank you for the rescue,” Maya said after they were around the corner.

“Anytime. I couldn’t leave you in that. How ghastly.”

“Truly. One day I’ll tell her.”

“She will understand. The longer you leave it, the harder it will be.” Nadia was waving a finger at her.

“I know. That’s a problem for future Maya to deal with.” Maya laughed.

“I feel for her, poor future Maya,” Nadia quipped. She hesitated and searched around. “I wonder where my parents went.” Nadia led Maya through the crowd as they explored the Quadrangle.

They discovered the couple standing outside the Great Hall. A tall, older version of Nadia, and a shorter man with glasses and thinning white hair. As they approached, the woman started off.

“Where did mum go?” Nadia asked.

“Oh, she needed to examine one building here, something ‘architecturally relevant’,” the man said.

“Dad, this is Maya,” Nadia said, introducing her.

“Ahh, the famous Maya. Isn’t your father the Dean of Arts and Social Sciences?” the man said and held out his hand. Before she could answer, he quickly added, “I’m Henry, nice to meet you.” Maya shook his hand firmly.

“Nice to meet you, Henry, yes my father is the Dean. Lots of university talk around the dining table,” Maya joked.

“I’ll bet. Any plans for after graduation?” Henry winked at Nadia.

“I already told her, and she’s thinking about it.” Nadia sighed and shook her head at Maya.

“Thinking about it? This is the opportunity of a lifetime for both of you. And it was difficult to secure, let me tell you. I had to shuffle around a lot of my business to get an opportunity like this.”

“Investments, isn’t it?” Maya asked.

“Yes, exactly. Nadia has been in my ear constantly about the potential in the Valley of the Kings. Luckily, I got some media interested, and it all developed from there.” Henry had a satisfied grin on his face.

“You did well, Dad. I still can’t believe it.” Nadia’s smile dropped for a moment and she turned to Maya. “You really can’t go? Your dad will understand, I’m sure.”

“I can’t. He’s invested too much into this. I can’t mess things up now.”

“But don’t you want this?” Nadia looked intently at her friend.

“Part of me does. But that part isn’t strong enough to override everything else.” Maya gave Nadia a regretful smile. Before Nadia could reply, her father leaned in closer.

“I shouldn’t have made a big deal about it. I was only trying to help.” Henry turned to Maya. “There’s no pressure. Some of us have to live in reality too.” Henry chuckled and grinned affectionately at Nadia.

“Are you all right?” Nadia said, noticing a change in Maya.

“I’m fine, but I just spotted my dad. Only something’s not normal. I’ll be right back.” Maya left them immediately.

He never walks like that. Who is he talking to on the phone? Why isn’t he going to the Quad with everyone else?

Maya quickened her pace, not outright running but walking swiftly. Her father was racing down Science Road, the phone pressed hard against his ear. Nobody else paid him any attention. Maya started pushing through the crowds, struggling to get closer. He pivoted and headed down some stairs.

My father’s headed for the graffiti tunnel. He hates that place with a passion.

Maya’s heartbeat quickened, and she felt anxious. Something was very wrong. She broke out into a run, launching herself down the stairs. She could see him at the bottom, turning back to look. Before she could call to him, he twisted to the right.

Maya pushed her legs hard, knowing that she could close the gap quickly. She narrowly dodged some tourists taking photos and a fellow graduate taking a selfie. As she rounded the corner, she noticed her father at the end of the lane, glancing around anxiously. Suddenly a white van appeared in front of him. The doors slid out, and men clad entirely in black dragged him into the van. As the doors closed, the van sped off.

Maya couldn’t believe it. She kept running, trying to get a glimpse of the number plate. As it turned the corner, she only read the first few letters. She pushed herself harder, struggling to keep up. But it disappeared around another corner, and she was out of breath.

I can’t believe this is happening. What is going on?

Maya sucked in deep breaths and pulled out her phone. She dialed her father. The phone didn’t even ring; it went straight to voicemail.

What do I do?

Maya dialed her mother, waiting impatiently for the call to connect. It also went straight to voicemail.

This can’t be right. I have to call the police.

Just as Maya started dialing, her entire world was enveloped in darkness.

3

ABDUCTED

OCTOBER 24, 2019

Maya awoke with a start, sensing a chill. She glanced around at her surroundings, trying to piece together what had taken place.

They took my father. Maybe I was taken too.

She shrugged off the brown woolen blanket and peered around the room. It was a prison. Smooth concrete surrounded her. The bed was a plain mattress on the floor, and her back throbbed. Maya noticed the absence of her graduation gown and quickly checked her clothing.

My shirt and jeans are untouched, just a little crinkled. That’s a relief.

“What happened?” she murmured. The single door had a slit in it. Her imagination immediately fired up, showing her visions of guards pushing through trays of gruel or something comparable.

I don’t understand, what did I do?

Maya stood and paced the room. She ran a hand over the various surfaces. There was no trick here, no prank. It was all solid. The door was also sturdy and functional.

Wherever I am, they built this as a cell, or a prison. There’s no doubt about it.

To force the panic away, Maya became more analytical. She speculated that the construction made the room look modern. It smelled new. Maybe it had never been needed.

Who took me? Terrorists? Did my father get into something? Is this something to do with the archaeology dig?

The questions kept racing through her mind. But the sound of footsteps interrupted them. Maya’s heart rate doubled, and she stood as still as possible, listening to the footsteps from outside the door. They were getting closer.

The footsteps stopped just outside. There was a lull, then a swift knock on the door. Maya jumped despite herself but remained quiet.

“Food is coming through. Better get ready,” a gruff voice said. Maya quickly scrambled closer to the door, lingering near the slit. A tray started passing through, and she reached out with her hands to steady it and continue pulling it closer. The last part of the tray came through awkwardly, and she lurched back, almost dropping the entire thing. But she corrected herself. Before she could pay much thought to the contents of the tray, she heard the footsteps receding.

Not much for chitchat, I see.

Maya glanced over the tray. There was no gruel. Instead, it was a cheese sandwich on white bread, a tiny juice container, and what looked like a minuscule pudding.

Wow, I got dessert?

Maya lowered herself onto the bed, assuming she should eat. Sitting down, she realized how ravenous she was. Her stomach started feeling uncomfortable. She grabbed the sandwich and started shoving it in her mouth. The relief from the food was much appreciated, but it brought an unwanted question.

Just how long have I been asleep?

Maya polished off the sandwich and the apple juice. The pudding turned out to be a custard thing. She inhaled it, cleaning the last remnants out with a plastic spoon. She settled the tray beside her and leaned back against the wall.

What now?

Footsteps started again. Maya jumped to her feet and approached the door. The footsteps continued and once again stopped right outside. There was silence.

Is this the same person?

Maya heard a jingling of keys and the door opened. Her heart was thumping so fast, she worried about it. The door opened, and she looked at a middle-aged man dressed in a shirt and trousers. He looked icy and dispassionate.

“Maya?” he asked. His voice was as impersonal as she had imagined.

“Yes,” she answered. Her voice faltered.

“Come with me. We have matters to discuss.” The man stepped back, allowing her to exit the room.

4

A NEW OPPORTUNITY

Maya halted, surveying the room in front of her. The heavy steel door before her had been blown inward with explosives. ET was lying on the floor, lifeless. Maya gasped and dropped to her knees.

No. No. No.

Maya rushed over to check his vitals. He had no pulse.

“Step away from him,” a voice said from beyond the wall. A tall man with short dark hair walked in. Maya immediately noticed his limp while he cautiously examined the scene. He knelt and checked on ET.

“Deceased,” the man said, all the while keeping his eyes on Maya.

“You work here?” he asked. Maya was about to deny it, but she remembered the lab coat and that ET was lying dead on the floor.

“Yes, I’m just an assistant.”

“Anyone else here?”

“No, it’s only a skeleton crew. The place is practically abandoned.” Maya shrugged, trying to make it look natural. Her heart was thumping away.

Am I next? Maybe I shouldn’t have accepted ET’s offer to dull my healing power.

“You’re safe now. Come with me.” The man took one last look around the place and turned to leave. Maya hesitated a moment but went with him.

I can’t stay here. At least I can get out and figure out what to do next. I’m so sorry, ET. I’ll figure out your actual name and honor you properly.

Maya stepped through the demolished wall and found herself in a plain white corridor.

“There was no sign this place even existed until the distress call came through,” the man said when she joined him. He stuck out a hand. “Anders.”

“Maya.” She shook his hand, a surprising warmth coming from it.

He has a good-looking face when he’s not scowling or whatever it is he’s doing.

“What do you do, Anders? Are you a cop or something?”

“Me? Ha, no. I’m a normal. Not fit for the police. I’m more of a bounty hunter.” Anders started walking through the corridor and she walked alongside him.

“I’m not really from around here. What do bounty hunters do?” Maya noticed him give her a strange look.

“All sorts of jobs. This is quite an unusual one. I would have expected the police to get it. Generally, it’s tracking down and dealing with rogue bloodlines.”

“Isn’t that dangerous?” Maya said, feeling her way through the conversation.

“Yes, it really is. That’s why I have to keep one step ahead.”

“And what was the callout for here?” Maya asked, trying to act casual. Anders pulled out a phone and skimmed something.

“Convicted felon with persuasion bloodline has broken into a lab, killed security, and taken a worker hostage,” Anders said.

“Did the felon have a name?” Maya asked. Anders stopped dead in his tracks.

“No. What’s it to you?”

“He just died. I wondered who he was, that’s all.”

“Where did you say you were from?” Anders said.

“I didn’t. Australia.” Maya watched his reaction. He nodded and kept walking.

“Things must be different over there.”

“It’s complicated. But yes.” Maya monitored Anders as they continued along the extra-long corridor. She could see some double doors in the distance.

“You can fill me in later. We’ll head back to my office to complete the paperwork, and then you’re free to go home.”

“Paperwork?” Maya stopped walking. Anders slowed and turned to face her.

“It’s nothing invasive. It makes sure that I get paid.” After pausing to make sure she had understood, Anders strode ahead and pushed open the double doors. “It’s not far. At least do me this favor.”

I can play along for a little while. Maybe I can learn more about the situation here.

“Fine.” Maya walked through the door and found herself in a parking garage. The cars all looked similar. Sleek and low to the ground, a little like the concept cars and other weird prototypes that she had noticed back in her time. But not that outlandish, really.

What did you expect?

Anders stopped by a jet-black car. It was a little chunkier and less sleek than the rest. He pulled out his phone and immediately the car unlocked; the doors rising. He walked around to the driver’s side and hopped in. Maya sat down next to him, her eyes taking in the vehicle. There was a central screen with a lot of things going on, but the rest of the dashboard looked like she expected. The seats were soft but not that different either.

“Manual control,” Anders said to the car. The doors closed, and he put his hands on the steering wheel.

“New York traffic, right?” he said as an explanation. Maya nodded and hoped that she seemed like she understood. The car pulled away quickly, and once they emerged from the parking garage, she was only a little disappointed when the car didn’t take to the skies. It was pitch black outside, the streetlights and skyscrapers only minimally lighting up the streets.

True to his word, Anders’ office wasn’t far away at all. He didn’t offer any small talk in the car, so Maya was free to gaze out at the city. She had never been to New York, but it seemed similar to pictures and movies she had seen.

Why hasn’t the world moved forward that much?

“You get used to New York yet?” Anders asked as he parked the car.

“Not yet,” Maya said truthfully.

“Some never do.” Once they were both outside, Anders locked the car. He had parked on the street in front of a high-rise building.

“How did you get parking?” Maya asked, surprised that she had said it out loud.

“Look at this little gadget.” Anders pointed to a tiny machine attached to the curb. It looked like a black cube.

“What is it?”

“Scrambles the self-driving sensors. Cars think there’s something already parked here.” Anders waved his phone near the door sensor and they entered the dimly lit lobby. He walked confidently over to the elevators and called them.

“What time is it?” Maya asked.

“Three a.m. give or take.”

“You’re still working?”

“It depends. Most of my work is at night, as you’d expect.” Anders paused, waiting for the elevator doors to open, and he entered immediately. Once Maya was inside, he pressed level thirteen.

“I take it you’re not superstitious.”

“Nope, not at all. You could say it’s lucky. Cheaper rent.”

“That’s an interesting perspective.” Maya almost laughed. She wasn’t sure if it was the tiredness coming through, or how intense he was. Even his joke seemed like it was more intended as a useful fact than a crack to lighten the mood, but she couldn’t help but laugh. Maybe the contradiction seemed funny to her, more so than what he had said.

The elevator was quick and efficient. Once they reached the right floor, there were a series of glass offices.

“Anders Thorne. Private Investigator,” Maya said, reading the text on his door.

“That’s me. Please step inside and head straight through.” Anders directed her to an office past the reception area. Maya walked through and took a seat in front of the desk. It was littered with gadgets and strange trinkets.

“What’s all this?” she asked.

“Useful things. In my line of work, you never know what kind of job you’re going to get. Having them in my line of sight helps me ensure I don’t forget a useful tool, even if I don’t use it for a while.” Anders leaned back in his chair, with a calculating look on his face.

“We come to the matter of paperwork.” Anders first pulled out a square device, one that looked similar to the one that ET had used.

“Bloodline sensor?” Maya asked. Anders nodded.

“It’s the latest prototype. The most accurate at measuring all six bloodlines.” Anders ran it over his own palm first, then showed Maya the result. There were six dots on the chart.

“I see. The dots signify no result?”

“Precisely. Now your turn.” Anders looked at Maya and beckoned for her to give him her palm. She reluctantly did so. He dutifully scanned it and then raised an eyebrow.

“That’s an unusual result.” He showed her the screen. Instead of six dots, she had six bars that filled up the height of the device.

“I think I broke your machine.”

“It’s not broken.” Anders put the machine down and studied her more intently.

“Look, I don’t have any powers. I wasn’t just a research assistant; they also messed with my blood. I’m not that surprised that the device went crazy. I’m not sure what your paperwork comprises, but you can’t file that scan result.” Maya watched Anders turning it over in his mind.

“Well, it would raise a lot of questions. And trouble for both of us. But I do have to file something…” Anders waited for her to fill in the blanks.

“You found me dead or missing. Or trapped under the explosion. Anything, except that I’m with you, and you got a strange reading.”

“This is not a small thing to make go away. It’s going to cost me.” Anders said. He didn’t sound like he was reporting her. It was more like he was musing on the consequences of the decision.

“I can pay. Or I can work off the debt. But if you file that report, I’ll have a target on my back. And then I’ll be back in the lab, undergoing more tests.” Maya felt a cold shiver run down her spine.

I’ve lost twenty years. I can’t let that happen again.

“You got a phone?” Anders asked. Maya felt through the lab coat pockets and found something that felt like it had potential. She removed it and was surprised to see the phone, and even more surprised when Anders took it. He started using it immediately.

“No security, how odd. Well, I can work with this.” Anders cracked a grin and put the phone down. He immediately pulled his own out and started typing something. He was intent on what he was doing for a full thirty seconds before he put his own phone down. Then he smashed the bloodline sensor with his hand. Maya jumped.

“What was that for?”

“You don’t want this little friend phoning home.” Anders expertly swept it into a trash bin nearby. He leaned back in his chair again.

“Here’s where things sit. You had enough funds on your phone to cover the loss from the bounty. This one was a pittance without delivering you, the cargo.” Anders paused, watching her reaction. “The cost of that rather expensive little device, well, you can work that off.”

“Work it off? As your assistant?”

“Why not? You seem to be inexperienced around these parts. You could learn a thing or two. I could use some free labor, and I won’t even subject you to laboratory testing.” Anders let out a deep laugh. There was an earnestness to it that slipped out. For a split second, she glimpsed the man underneath. A kind soul looking for peace.

The glimpse was over before she could really drink it in. Anders looked cool and calculating again, trying to judge her answer. Without even thinking, she had already decided.

“I’m in. What have I got to lose?”

“What have you got to lose? Ha—great way to start a new partnership.” Anders pulled out a keyboard and banged a few keys. A monitor rose from the desk and he began working on it.

“Phone not cut out for everything?” Maya asked.

“Actually, my phone is way more sophisticated. But for some things, we must use these government systems.” Anders’ face was a picture of total focus.

“Things such as?” Maya asked.

“Fabricating your identity and getting you licensed as a trainee bounty hunter.” Anders had a wicked smile.

“Aren’t you supposed to work for the government? Couldn’t you get in trouble for this?”

“In theory. But they won’t find out, and they owe me. It’s better this way.” Anders returned to what he was doing. With a few more keystrokes, he finished up.

“You exist now. Take a look.” Anders turned the monitor, and Maya saw a profile on the screen. There was no photo, but he had given her a name: Maya Lost.

5

INTERROGATED

OCTOBER 25, 2019

Maya glanced around as she walked. They were in a stark concrete corridor, with other rooms to each side. The man didn’t bother locking the door. He just started off in one direction. Maya hurried after him. There were so many other rooms, she wondered who was in them.

Are my parents here as well?

She was about to ask when the man halted. He turned and addressed her.

“I could tell you wanted to ask a question. Not here.” Without waiting for a response, he set off again. They continued to walk past a series of closed doors until they reached an enormous set of double doors. The man used an electronic pass and unlocked them. He placed it back into his pocket, opened the doors, and waited for Maya.

They were in another nondescript corridor, polished concrete on the walls and ceiling.

Am I in a bunker?

At least this corridor looked different. Halfway down, the man stopped and unlocked a door with a key. He stepped aside and gestured for Maya to enter. Maya pushed open the door and walked inside. There was a compact table with two chairs around it. One of the walls was made of glass.

Looks like an interrogation room from those police shows.

“That’s your seat,” the man said, pointing at one chair. She sat, easing into the hard plastic. It creaked, and she felt uncomfortable. The man locked the door and then sat opposite her. He took his time and settled into the chair. The man finally looked up and spoke.

“My name is Elias. I will ask you a few questions. You must answer truthfully.”

“Where am I? Where are my parents?” Maya kept her voice even. But the thought of her parents being here too, being kept the same way, made her blood boil.

“If you cooperate, I will answer some of your questions.” Elias retrieved a slim notebook from his pocket and flipped it over, reviewing the contents. He also extracted a pen and placed it on the table.

“You can’t do this to people. I have rights. My parents have rights!” Maya glared at him. Elias ignored her completely.

“Your name is Maya Mills, correct?” Elias said. When she didn’t answer at once, he looked up at her face. “I need to get through these questions. Depending on the answers, you may be the wrong person and be free to go.” He stared at her with his icy eyes. They looked to be gray and emotionless.

“You’re not answering my questions!” Maya banged her hand on the table, the outburst feeling freeing. Her hand throbbed intensely, though.

“I would like to help you, but I cannot begin unless you answer some initial questions. Please confirm that your name is Maya Mills.” Elias spoke slowly and calmly, like he was addressing a child.

“Fine, yes that’s my name.” Maya fidgeted in the chair. Elias noted something in the book.

“Now, your parents are Olivia Mills and Magnus Mills, correct?”

“Yes. Where are they?” Maya stared at Elias. He made a note in his book and looked up again.

“They are in our custody, of course. Continue to cooperate and they will stay safe. Continue your outbursts, and all I need to do is make a phone call.” Elias looked up at Maya, his otherwise emotionless eyes quickly flashing with anger. Elias paused for a moment, holding eye contact, before returning to his book, flicking a page over and back again.

“Your parents emigrated to Australia from the United States. Your mother was from Spain. What were their professions?” Elias asked, not looking at her.

“Don’t you know this?” Maya said, annoyed. Elias did not reply. “My mum was a tennis player; my father was an academic. Historian. They met at college.”

“Good, that’s perfect.” Elias made a few more scribbles. He then turned the page.

“Now, we will try different questions. Please answer these as honestly as possible.”

“What is all this for? I don’t understand why you have me!” Maya glared at Elias. She had no patience for this, the questions and secrecy. What did they want? How much danger was she in?

“We are determining your suitability and confirming the person we think you are. If we made a mistake, then we will make amends. But, if you are the person we suspect you are, then we need you to help us with something.” Elias spoke carefully and slowly, enunciating each word. There was still no emotion to his voice.

“Fine. What’s the next question.”

“Have you ever broken any bones?”

“No.”

“Have you ever had a serious illness? Been hospitalized?”

“No. I don’t see how that’s…” Maya said, but was cut off.

“It’s incredibly relevant. Do you experience Deja Vu?” Elias looked up at this one.

“Sure, doesn’t everyone?”

“How often?” Elias was waiting for an answer, his pen lifted off the notebook.

“I couldn’t say. Maybe once a week?”

“Thank you.” Elias continued scribbling and making notes.

I need to figure out what they’re after sooner rather than later. Maybe I can alter my answers to avoid what they want. But I need to be careful. I don’t want them to hurt my parents.

“Do you have any siblings?”

“No, none.”

“Not even half-brothers or sisters?”

“No, it’s just me.”

“Good.” Elias made more notes. Maya tried to gauge his reactions, but he was giving nothing away. He was like a machine, noting things down in his book.

“We’re almost finished establishing the basic facts. Now, have you had any intimate relationships?” Elias looked at her, watching her reaction.

“What? That’s none of your business. You can’t ask me that!” Maya shouted. The question reminded her of James, which was making her even more incensed.

“Must I remind you of the importance of these questions? We need to establish your family and relationships.” Elias closed his notebook and put it away. He stood up and walked to the door, unlocking it.

Maybe I’m done. Is he letting me out?

Elias called out something in the hallway. After a few moments, there were footsteps. He had a quick and quiet conversation that Maya couldn’t overhear. The footsteps retreated and Elias sat back in his chair.

“That first phase was establishing your answers from freely given information. Next, we compare that with recorded facts.” Elias showed a smile for the first time. It crept up onto his lips and made Maya shiver.

This will not be good.

Elias sat quietly, just waiting and watching the door. Soon there was a single knock. Elias stood up and received something before locking the door. He sat down, holding a book. One that Maya recognized.

“How did you…” Maya said, trailing off.

That’s my diary. Oh no, this is going to be terrible.

“Let us review this document. I can see that you recognize it.” Elias started leafing through the book. He stopped at a page.

“Dear diary,” he began.

“I didn’t write that!” Maya said. Elias gave her a bigger smile this time.

“I know, I was just adding that for effect. Dear diary, James invited me to a party today. I’m so excited, he’s really cool. I can’t believe that he wants to hang out with me.” Elias paused and looked at Maya.

“What’s that supposed to prove?” Maya said, her voice wavering.

“Do I need to keep reading it?” Elias said.

“No. I answered your questions truthfully.”

“And there’s nothing else that you need to tell me?” Elias stared right at her, and she felt even more disturbed.

“I told you no, and that’s the truth.” Maya’s voice was pure steel, and she glared back at him. Elias nodded and opened his notebook again, adding a few scribbles.

I can’t believe this. They have no right. They have no right.

Maya heard footsteps again, and the door opened. Elias stood up and walked over to the door, conferring with someone in hushed tones. He nodded and sat back down.

“All right, we’ve confirmed enough of the information we need. I can say with certainty that you are the person we need. Quite suitable.” Elias looked pleased with himself. Maya just wanted to get out of the room, by any means possible.

“Suitable for what?”

“An opportunity to change the world. If you help us, then we won’t need your parents. But if you refuse, then things are going to get a lot more difficult.” Elias observed her reaction.

“I can’t really agree to anything if I don’t know what you need me to do.” Maya shuffled in her chair. Her abduction, the abduction of her parents, and the strange questions. It didn’t add up. Something was very wrong with this situation. She tried to keep her anger up; she needed something to stay strong.

“Right now, we just need your cooperation. And when the time comes, you need to be willing to help. There’s not much to do, provided you listen and pay attention. You need little instruction if that’s what you’re concerned about.”

“No, I’m not concerned about that. I’m concerned about what you want me to do! You abducted me and my family! You’ve transported us to who knows where, and you won’t tell me anything!” Maya slammed the table, the outburst coming in a way she didn’t expect. Elias seemed unperturbed, and Maya sunk back into the chair.

“I think we’re done for now. Let’s take you back to your quarters.” Elias rose and unlocked the door. Maya stood slowly, her legs unsteady.

This is terrible. I need to get out of here somehow. And fast.

6

FIRST JOB

M