Dance on Fire: Infernal

Table of Contents

Book One

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Book Two

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Epilogue

Author’s Note

Author’s Biography

This book and major new character are dedicated to Marie Jeffery - my dear grandmother – for a lifetime of love, lessons, and laughter.

Most especially laughter.

Infernal:

1. hellish; fiendish; diabolical

2: extremely troublesome, annoying

3: of, inhabiting, or befitting Hell

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

--1 Peter: 5, 8 ESV

Dance on Fire:

Infernal

BOOK ONE

It was late afternoon when Satan made his reappearance.

High above him, a single raven flew across the bird-less, overcast sky and landed atop a street lamp on the Fresno Community Regional Medical Center campus on the corner of Merced and R Street. It didn’t survey its surroundings, hunt for food, or herald the Devil’s approach. It did nothing but stare intently ahead at the building directly before it.

Saturday

The waiting area was packed with few empty seats, Kingsburg Police Chief Michael Lopez noted. Some people sat and nervously flipped through obscure magazines that they probably never read in everyday life; others glanced from face to face without a word; still others eyed the television, watching but not listening as news anchors on CNN shared the news of the day. What the talking heads had to say might have been breaking news for the nation or the world, but nothing they said came close to being the news of the day as far as those gathered there were concerned.

I can’t stand this, Barbara whispered. She leaned over and set her head upon her husband’s right shoulder.

I know, dear, Michael offered and lightly kissed the top of her head. He lingered there a moment, and took in the scent of her light brown hair. There was a small growth of grey at her roots at the very top of her head. She was past due for a coloring, but there had been simply too much to do these past few weeks leading up to this late afternoon. Michael set the copy of Field and Stream down on his lap and reached for her hand. They met each other’s eyes and shared a forced smile. He had more than his share of grey hairs as well, he knew, along with several unwanted pounds around his waist.

More than several.

Barbara squeezed Michael’s hand and sighed. He glanced at the twins. Robbie and Rebekah – inseparable as always – sat together. Both were plugged into their smart phones, no doubt checking in with the handful of social network sites. Facebook was known to him, but seemingly becoming passé for the younger generation. God knew what the kids were using these days to stay in touch. Normally the twins weren’t glued to their iPhones the way most teens their age were, and he was quite pleased with that. They were always quick to set them down or put them away if the family was engaged at a meal or some outing. As if able to read his thoughts, both of them looked up, met his gaze, and smiled.

The twins quickly holstered their devices in their respective pockets and came over to their parents. The seat on Barbara’s right was empty, so Rebekah sat down. This is so boring, she whispered. How long did we take?

Only forever! Michael exclaimed and laughed. He stood and patted his chair for Robbie to take it, and stretched his legs and back.

Like you’d know! Barbara scoffed as Robbie sat down beside her. Your dad was working for most of it.

Hey! I was serving and protecting the peoples’ trust.

Whatever! she added. She rubbed and then patted her kid’s knees. Well, your father did get there eventually. It was eight hours of waiting, walking, waiting, walking, and waiting some more. I think it was two hours for him, she said, motioning with her head toward their dad as he strolled across the room toward the nearest window, hands deep in pockets.

He spun back. I was there for three hours, thank you very much.

Oh, you were so burdened. Barbara smirked and stuck out her tongue.

Michael showed her his as well, getting a small chorus of giggles from a group of others, which included Jerod’s mother and father in law, Vanessa Jackson and her daughter Grace, and a couple of strangers. He smiled at each of them, shaking his head as if this had been a well-choreographed dance between husband and wife. He turned toward the window and glanced out of the fourth-story view. He quickly noted one left-handed gardener, the parking garage across the street, one male jogger who expertly navigated his route, a family of five waiting to cross the road, and one solitary raven on a street lamp directly across from him. He and the bird seemed to stare at one another for a few moments until Barbara continued her part of the routine and distracted him.

Robbie was first, Barbara said. Followed soon by you, my dear.

Ha! Robbie exclaimed. That was the last time she’s let me be first at anything.

Barbara laughed.

Rebekah sighed. And do you know why that is, dearest brother?

No, ‘Beck. Please elaborate, he said and dramatically cupped his face with his hands.

It’s because you’re too darn slow. That’s why! Look at our poor mother, suffering all those hours alone while you held up progress.

Hey! Michael cried. "I was there. I was there."

Barbara arched her brow at him and seemed pleased his cries were being ignored.

Had I been able to get you out of my way, Rebekah continued, I could have been out and gracing the world with my presence long before then.

Leave me out of this, Grace interjected from across the room. She never glanced up from her smart phone and Vanessa smirked. It was a routine of her daughter’s that she never grew tired of.

Yeah, right, Robbie continued, oblivious. Had I left it to you, we would have been so early that you would have had us spilling out in the car!

Gross! Grace exclaimed, this time looking up. Her face held a horrified expression.

Christine’s fathered smirked and shook his head as if picturing the image. Sitting beside him, his wife grimaced, but then rose to her feet with a start.

The group caught Joan Miner’s reaction, followed her gaze, and immediately stood to face what was coming.

It was Jerod. He was wearing the most profound smile that he would ever wear. He approached the group, surveyed each member of his family as they quickly surrounded him and then, finally released a sigh. It’s a boy!

The family cried out, threw up hands, and took turns embracing the new dad as tears welled up and spilled all around.

Christine is doing great, Jerod added. She’s exhausted, but she won’t realize that for a while. The baby’s perfect. Jerod paused before continuing. Everything is perfect!

Congratulations were thrown all around, and everybody embraced and embraced again. A nurse quickly brought over another box of tissues as it grew obvious that one tiny box wouldn’t be enough.

Okay, Grace interrupted. Now that he’s here, what’s his name?

Yes, David Miner added, patting Grace on the shoulder. We’ve been begging for months. What’s with all the mystery? Can I now know what my grandchild’s name is?

The group calmed themselves and turned back to Jerod, anticipating the final unveiling. Each member of the group had seemingly pestered the young couple for most of Christine’s pregnancy as to what the possibilities might be, whether boy or girl, but was always turned away.

Jerod smiled. Well, sir. It’s funny you should ask. I spoke to my dad about this…

What? David asked. I see how it is! He took a half step toward Michael and gave him a playful jab in his gut. Michael took a half step back and feigned a defense posture.

No, it isn’t like that, and I didn’t tell him all, Jerod continued. You see, you have been so wonderful to me, welcoming me into your family and giving your beautiful only daughter to me… Both of you. He motioned to Joan, and then looked back at his father-in-law. I wanted to name a son after you as an eternal gift for what you mean to me. I just wanted to make sure my dad understood.

David Miner’s face went pale. Joan turned to him and covered her mouth as the tears came anew. The rest of the group went silent as well. Barbara and Michael leaned against each other and embraced.

I-I have no words, David said at last.

That’s okay, Jerod said, quickly stepping over and reaching for his and Joan’s hands. I love your daughter, and I love the both of you as well.

Thank you so much, Jerod, Joan said, tears streaming down her cheeks.

Yes, David echoed her sentiment. Thank you, son. You honor me with this. Each and every day you show me that you were the perfect man to marry our daughter. David released his son-in-law’s hand and grabbed him, embracing him longer than he ever had before.

It’s got a lovely ring to it, come to think of it, Michael said. David Lopez.

Jerod held onto his father-in-law, but turned toward his parents. "Yes, it does. But his full name is David Nathaniel Lopez."

A collective gasp went up from the group as Vanessa and each member of the Lopez family caught their breath at this sudden surprise. The Miners and ten year old Grace – much too young to remember the significance – didn’t understand, nor would they have it explained to them today.

At least not all.

* * *

The raven suddenly snapped to attention, standing to full height there on its perch and uttered a deep rasping call. It flapped its wings nervously and called out repeatedly. Ignoring several people about the grounds, it turned left and eyed the presence of only one.

The disguised Satan casually walked down the middle of Merced Street and approached the scene. He walked face held forward, supremely confident, watching both everything and nothing at the same time. He continued his march across R Street without yielding to cars or even acknowledging their presence, and did not stop until he was directly beneath the bird. He didn’t look up. He had every confidence that the creature knew better than to release the contents of its bowels while he stood below. He fished a Cuban cigar from the inside left breast pocket of his Kiton K-5 suit and then removed his switchblade cutter from the left pocket of his slacks. He cut the cap of the cigar expertly as if doing minor surgery and having all day to do it. He raised the cigar to his nondescript face, half-hidden by the fedora worn low over his brow, and inserted it into his mouth. Seemingly without any prompting, its opposite end immediately took to flame.

The light notes of sweet pepper and dark chocolate were not necessarily his favorite, but he made it a habit to smoke Cubans whenever in the States as one big middle finger to the government for making them illegal. He turned toward the hospital and glanced up at the windows of the maternity ward as he savored the cigar and, more importantly, the moment he had long anticipated.

The raven made a series of repeated shrill calls, which made Satan grin. He nodded but didn’t look away until the sound of low heels striking cement nearby suddenly drew his attention. He watched two women approach. They wore little makeup and the plainest off the rack slacks and sweaters. Nuns, he knew instinctively.

Good evening, ladies, he purred, and briefly removed his hat.

The woman nearest to him diverted her eyes and said nothing as she moved past. The second – younger by a decade and perhaps braver for her distance from him – dared to correct him.

"Good afternoon," she answered.

Is it? he asked. He followed them for a few steps and then looked away. They were insignificant, and had no idea just who it was who had crossed their path this day. It hadn’t been the first time that he had been this close to either one of them, but for the most part, they had been good girls before choosing God over the flesh. Well, he thought, reconsidering. Not that good.

He smirked to himself as they ultimately drifted away from the center of the sidewalk, as if clinging to one side might save them.

Someone else approached next and Satan smiled wide. This one he knew very well indeed. He watched the good priest stare intently at his smart phone, completely oblivious to anyone’s presence, let alone his.

How’s the new phone working out for you, Bill? Satan teased.

The priest looked up with a start and stopped in his tracks. Pardon me? I’m sorry. I didn’t hear you.

Satan puffed the cigar before replying, thoroughly enjoying the game. Yes, you did.

The priest caught his bearings. "Well, perhaps I was taken aback by your addressing me by name, rather than by my title: Father."

Hmm, Satan mumbled and frowned. Perhaps it has more to do with properly complying with the scriptures. Doesn’t the good book say, ‘call no one on Earth your father; you have but one Father in heaven?’ I believe Matthew: twenty-three, nine.

I see, said Father William. You’re a Protestant. I have one for you. First Thessalonians five: twelve and thirteen. ‘And now, friends, we ask you to honor those leaders who work so hard for you, who have been given…’

’…the responsibility of urging and guiding you along in your obedience,’ Satan interrupted. ’Overwhelm them with appreciation and love.’ Yes, Bill. I know that one too. And, no, I’m no mere protester…

Who are you then, friend? the priest interrupted right back. And I really must insist you call me Father.

Really? Satan replied. He took one last puff from the cigar and then extinguished it with a sharp blow of his breath, replacing the cigar inside his suit. He took a step closer. "I’m the chief protestor, and I’m not your friend either, Bill. I do, however, know that you’re enjoying that phone. You love getting college basketball scores and notices. Notre Dame has a very good team this year I see."

Now how in the world would you know that? Father William asked.

Notre Dame? Satan asked sarcastically. Oh, I follow lots of sports.

No, I mean about how I use my phone.

I know everything about you. I see everything, too. He stepped closer still. I know you thoroughly enjoy the ease with which porn can be downloaded…privately; for those intimate, alone moments. No more trying to hold up a magazine with one hand, allowing the other to…remain free, shall we say?

H-how dare you! Father William said, suddenly shaking in what Satan perceived to be embarrassed anger and shame.

Oh give it a rest, Bill! Satan said, raising his hands and smiling big. Your secret’s safe with me.

Father William grew strangely quiet as he continued to shake. His eyes turned suddenly glassy and the breath seemed to be sucked from him.

You’re not going to vapor-lock on me now, are you? Satan asked, suspiciously.

The priest closed his eyes once, sighing deeply. The air about them crackled as if the priest had suddenly sucked in all the oxygen from the area. When he reopened his eyes, he was completely calm. He soon smiled.

Father? Satan inquired, his supreme confidence shaken. The last time this had happened the veil in the temple had been torn and there had been a great earthquake.

So now you call me Father, the priest said.

It was the priest’s voice, but not his words, Satan noted as he retreated a step.

You do well to do so. Now, Satan, what is it that you want here?

Satan surveyed the man before him. A confused expression hung on his face.

"Why are you here?" the priest asked again.

Satan sighed as if deflated. Well, well, well, he finally said, realizing his error. I might ask the same of you. In fact, I will ask. What brings the Most High God here, to this place?

I notice you enjoy quoting scripture, Lucifer. ‘For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.’

Who has gathered and called upon your name? Satan asked.

You know very well who, Lucifer. The priest motioned over his shoulder and pointed up toward the building that stood above them. Those you have come to bring to ruin have called me, behind those windows there that you have been watching so intently; others, too.

Why must you call me that? Satan asked in careful measures. That is not who I am.

Indeed it is not, said the priest. For Lucifer was a beautiful creature, and my greatest champion.

Hmm? One of them—for a time anyway. But that was a very long time ago. And you know why I am here. Your favored family has just grown by another. I hate young David Nathaniel already!

I’m sure you do. The beautiful, bright morning star with the dark heart hates anything that reminds him of his original nature.

Satan turned and spat. The wad of phlegm exploded against the sidewalk as if a rotten egg had been thrown from a great distance. No. I hate that you don’t play fair. You thwart me on every level and every turn. Leave their presence and they will hate you right back.

Satan! the priest exclaimed. You have been trying variations on the same parlor trick since Job walked the earth. You can harm them, but they will not turn away. They are mine. Every last one of them.

Even the vampire? Satan asked. You don’t even speak to him. ’What does light have to do with darkness?’

A great deal, apparently, for here I am. The priest grinned.

Very cute. Satan clenched his jaw. The vampire is dead flesh. He should be properly buried. Allow me to do this for you.

I have had enough of you, Satan! I am departing from you now. You may keep trying. I will allow you some opportunities to fail, since you are so determined to do so. With that, the priest turned and purposefully continued on his way.

Will you now? Satan grinned. "That’s very good of you. I shall not let me down."

One more thing, the priest said, without looking back.

A spike of electricity sounded, followed by an aborted cry. The raven above them suddenly dropped to the ground like a stone. It bounced once and rolled over to a stop. The air was blanketed by the pungent odor of burnt flesh. Feathers fluttered after it, landing in various places, including atop Satan’s well-dressed feet. The raven never moved again.

Satan stared at the dead bird and shook his head. A little spiteful, aren’t you? he asked as he turned back toward the priest. As he did, he noted the man stumble and pause beside a trash receptacle. He didn’t turn back, but shuffled his feet a bit and then stopped again. Satan watched as the priest leaned over it and glanced inside. Puzzled, he watched him dig in his right pants pocket until he removed his new cell phone. He looked at it once and then quickly dropped it into the trash can as if it were old wadded up tissue he had neglected to discard. He clasped his hands behind him and continued on his way, glancing about him as if taking in the first day of spring after a very long and oppressive winter.

Satan grunted under his breath, turning back to the windows four floors above him. I don’t need him anymore. I have new playthings.

* * *

The four teenagers trudged through the cool February air just after nightfall, bundled up in an assortment of light coats, sweatshirts, and gloves. They walked, giggled, and bumped into one another playfully as they made their way through the colorful modern buildings that made up the Sierra Vista Shopping Mall in Clovis, California. This was a relatively new section of buildings that had been added to the old shopping center in 2006 and featured all of the newest renovations: state of the art lighting, outdoor speakers, decorative cement work, and ornate elevations. The Outdoor Community Park and the buildings that surrounded it was about a decade old now, but still appeared as clean as it did the year of its unveiling.

The teenagers were out on the town and on their way to see the latest action epic. Two were still unsure of the choice, but going to the movies had been a last minute decision and the pickings were slim, considering this wasn’t yet summer blockbuster season.

The teens – one young man surrounded by three young ladies – continued on their way toward the Criterion Sierra Vista Cinemas 16. One held her iPhone in her hand and checked the time. Tickets had already been purchased online at Fandango, so they didn’t concern themselves about them being sold out, but merely focused on getting some good seats before they were forced to sit separately or in the front row. This was a Saturday night and the film would start in ten minutes.

I can’t believe you guys are dragging me to see this! one of them, Lucy Charles, exclaimed—the second time she’d protested tonight.

Quit complaining! Rebekah replied with a playful shove. The third girl, Annie, watched, but didn’t comment as she walked beside Robbie.

"You’re the one who called and said we should hang out. That’s what we’re doing, but we’re going to do it inside. Would you rather we sit out here, in the frigging cold? Look at poor Annie over there, all bundled up and still freezing her butt off."

Robbie quickly glanced at the girl beside him. As if to help punctuate those words, Annie lifted her shoulders and ducked her head down inside the collar of her coat and nodded. Dressed in a light sweatshirt, Robbie chuckled and pocketed his bare hands. He was rarely cold.

"Alright, alright, alright, Lucy replied, mimicking Matthew McConaughey, the lead actor in the film they were about to watch. I guess it’s still a hell of a lot more exciting than Kingsburg."

The group laughed.

Rebekah was the least amused, but only because she busied herself with sneaking peaks at her brother and Annie. She kept her surveillance stealthy, casually running her fingers through her short black hair and readjusting her large blue denim purse that she’d draped across her shoulder. He had fawned over the girl for over a month with little success, and a part of her was still mystified that Annie had actually showed up today. She didn’t go to school with them, but only got to know them from attending Sunday night Outpour Service at church. Structured more toward youth than adults, this had become their service of choice. Robbie had spied on Annie in silence for weeks before finally working up the nerve to talk to her.

Rebekah glanced up at her brother’s face and noted its glow. Annie had texted him as they were leaving the hospital and he had been delighted to find out she was in town as well, and with nothing to do. It had been a perfect coincidence, which he appeared to be savoring with every beat of his pining heart. Rebekah was pleased for him, but also fought a sibling’s urge to tease the hell out of him over it.

The four reached their destination before it became packed and secured seats in the heart of the theater. The stadium seating ensured nearly every seat would be a good one, but sitting in the middle was tradition for the twins, so that was where they went. The group shared two large popcorns, but each had their own drinks. Rebekah noted her brother’s glow diminish momentarily as if he longed to share the same straw with Annie.

Oh, brother, she thought.

* * *

Luis jumped with a start as the cell phone, stuffed in a hidden pocket of his cassock, suddenly came to life with The Exorcist theme ringtone. He noted the disapproving expressions of those around him. Electronic devices weren’t prohibited here, but they weren’t exactly celebrated either. He frowned back at them as he quickly fished the phone out of his pocket and walked away from the men who were helping him clean the kitchen. Dinner had just ended.

Hello, he answered.

Luis, it’s Michael, came a familiar voice. How are you, sir?

I’m well, and you? How’s the family? And what’s this ‘sir’ business, my brother?

I only say that because I know it drives you crazy, my friend, Michael said, laughing.

Luis laughed back. Yes, it does. Everyone picks on poor Luis. Our friend almost gave me a heart attack just now. He’s changed the ringtone on this phone again, finding some horror movie sound or something. I nearly peed my cassock. You know, I now regret encouraging Nathaniel to use technology.

Michael’s hearty laugh came over the cell phone loud and clear. "As I recall, poor Luis can dish it out pretty well himself. Any luck sneaking up on Nathaniel?"

I’m getting ever closer and will not rest until I have done it! Are you calling to deliver the expected news, Michael?

Yes, I am, Michael replied, his breathing slightly labored. Grandma and grandpa have our first grandson.

A boy! Luis cried and slapped a leg with his free hand. How wonderful! And the parents?

Christine and Jerod are ecstatic. We’ve just left the hospital. Everybody’s great.

Oh, that’s such great news. Luis turned and left the kitchen, heading outside. Who does the baby look like? You or Barbara?

He looks like me, fat and balding, Michael quipped.

Luis giggled. Well, that explains why your breathing sounds like you’ve been running.

No running, Michael began. I just finished tying my shoes, he said with sarcastic wit. So, where’s Nathaniel?

He’s out on the grounds. He prefers to seek the Lord out among nature when he rises. I’m looking for him now.

I can’t believe how well this connection sounds, Michael said. Why do I get the feeling you’ve got your own cell tower there?

Ah! We have many additions. You’ll have to visit and see for yourself.

Yes, it’s been too long.

Luis bunched his long cassock in his left hand and lifted the hem as he hurried across the grounds, keeping his garment from getting dirty or tripping him in his haste. He had to take care in doing so, attempting to run in sandals. He headed for a spot overlooking the canyon, which was a favorite of Nathaniel’s. When he reached the tree line, he slowed, unable to see that well in the dark. His vision adapted, but not that much.

Nathaniel, he called out evenly. He didn’t have to shout. The vampire could hear quite well from a great distance. And don’t you dare sneak up on me, he quickly added. You have an important phone call.

Fine, I will not.

Luis jumped. Damn!

Language, Luis, the vampire teased. Perhaps God has yet to speak to me in no small part because of the associations I have made in this life. Perhaps you are a negative influence on me.

Michael’s laughter could be heard over the cell phone in Luis’ hand.

Luis sighed. Everyone picks on poor Luis.

"Poor Luis? Nathaniel asked. Please. Just hand me that device before you make Michael cry with your dramatics."

Luis handed it over. "That device. Don’t act like you’re all superior and refuse to sully your hands with technology. I noticed we have a new ringtone."

Did I do that? Nathaniel asked, feigning ignorance. Hello, Michael.

Hey, Nathaniel, Michael answered. You two crack me up with your bickering.

What is this bickering of which you speak? Luis adores me. He worships me, actually. Once again, I fear God does not approve of the company I keep. I may have to move to another monastery.

I’ll help you pack, Michael clearly heard Luis call out over the phone, and broke into laughter.

Enough of this, Michael, Nathaniel said. Please, tell me your news.

Jerod had a boy, Michael answered.

A boy! Nathaniel said. He reached out and embraced Luis from the side, giving him a gentle squeeze, careful not to touch the man’s skin with his cold hand. That is very good news indeed. Mother and father are well, I trust?

Yes, everyone’s great, Michael replied. But you haven’t heard the best news.

How much better could it be, Michael?

Jerod named his son after two important men in his life, Michael said. "The first was his father in law, David. The baby’s name is David Lopez. David Nathaniel Lopez."

Without a word, the vampire released Luis and raised his hand to his cassock-covered breast.

Nathaniel? Michael asked after a moment of silence. Hello?

What’s wrong, Nathaniel? Luis asked, watching his friend suddenly stand erect and become statuesque.

The vampire stared off into the darkness, as if deep in thought. Luis, he began with measured words. The child’s parents have honored me. His given name is David Nathaniel.

Praise the Lord! Luis said, clapping his hands together and looking to the heavens. He then brought his hands down to his eyes and began wiping away tears. It’s no wonder you’ve lost your voice.

Hello? Michael continued to call out.

I-I am here, Nathaniel finally stammered a response. I just do not know what to say.

You don’t have to say anything, Michael said. I think I know how you feel.

I know the twins much better than I do your eldest, Michael. I have attempted to get to know Jerod. I do not know what I could have done to cause him to honor me in such a fashion.

Well I do, Michael replied. I know exactly why he’s done this. In fact, he told me why, but he’s asked me not to repeat it because he wants to do that himself the next time he sees you.

I so look forward to this next meeting. Please give him my highest regards, Michael. And kiss Christine and baby David Nathaniel for me…

I absolutely will, Nathaniel. You can count on it.

After ending the call, Nathaniel slipped the phone they shared into his own secret pocket and once again embraced Luis. Neither said a word for quite a while. Nathaniel simply turned them and guided them back toward the building.

The Lord continues to bless you, my dear friend, Luis said at last.

Yes, He certainly does, Nathaniel replied. I cannot get over the fact that I was so utterly alone for such a long time, only to now find myself surrounded by family. I am almost afraid to speak of it for fear of bringing ruin upon it all.

No, my brother. You mustn’t think of things like that. Life is meant to be lived, even one as long as yours. You should savor it. In fact… Luis trailed off as they walked the last part and could now see the monastery again.

What is it?

Luis sighed. I delight in your company, Nathaniel, and I have a hard time picturing life without you. However, part of me wonders whether it is time you headed back out into the world. You have grown so much. The Lord has certainly met you here and equipped you with the tools you’ll need to continue the journey.

You believe so? Nathaniel asked.

I do.

Yet, I have not heard His voice, Nathaniel said.

Perhaps you have, but not in the manner you wish.

* * *

Two hours and ten minutes later – plus another ten minutes for everyone to use a restroom – the friends were once again walking about the mall. The group’s consensus was the film wasn’t bad, although not great. They walked over to a bench near the theater in the park area. Rebekah was surprised to hear a raven call out. The bird perched atop the nearest building. She looked in its direction as she sat down. They people-watched and enjoyed the sounds of running water and the scenery of the decorative trees and shrubbery about them. Robbie and Annie sat on one side of the bench while Lucy and Rebekah took the other. Rebekah placed her large purse down between them. Lucy eyed her suspiciously.

Why do you lug that silly thing around? Lucy asked, motioning toward the purse. It’s as big as a house! How many times have I offered to go purse shopping with you?

Many times. Rebekah sighed. She reached over and patted it as if it were a faithful dog sitting quietly beside her. But I like this silly thing.

I should have gotten you something better for Christmas.

There’s always this year.

Don’t think I won’t, Lucy said. And those shoes!

What’s wrong with the shoes? Annie finally spoke up and glanced at Rebekah’s feet and the athletic shoes that adorned them.

Yeah? asked Rebekah.

Nothing if you’re a fifteen year old boy, Lucy answered. But you’re a woman. You always dress like you’re going out for track. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you in a pair of pumps or even a cute pair of Vans or something.

I like my shoes, Rebekah answered.

By nine-thirty, the mall crowd was thinning out, but the four friends continued to linger.

I think I’m going to get a coffee, Lucy announced. Anybody want one?

None for me, but I’ll go with you, Annie answered.

You two go ahead, Rebekah quickly said. I want to talk to my brother about something anyway. She noted Robbie’s eyes seem to deflate. Rebekah waited for the girls to get out of earshot before chiding her brother.

What? Robbie asked, his tone even-keeled, but firm.

Don’t give me that ‘what,’ she responded. How in the world she doesn’t know you’re in love with her, I’ll never know. It’s painfully obvious to me.

Oh, give me a break! he replied, leaning back against the bench and glancing away.

"Give me a break! Are you ever going to make a move, or are you simply going to follow her around like a puppy?"

So you knew? Robbie asked after a pause, then shook his head and raised his right hand to stop her retort before it could begin. Rebekah frowned. He should know by now that she always knew. Everything. What if she doesn’t like me?

If she doesn’t, it’s only because you need to climb off her!

Excuse me? Robbie asked.

I’m talking about how you’re always stifling her. You need to let the woman breathe a little bit. In church you’re practically sitting on her lap! I thought the pastor was going to throw your ass out last week! Tonight is the first time she’s met you outside of that setting and you’re already planning the wedding.

C’mon, ‘Beck, Robbie replied. It’s nothing like that at all.

Oh, yeah? Prove it.

The twins instinctively turned just as the girls emerged from the Good Times Cafe. They seemed to be chatting about something and having a good time. Lucy had her coffee in her hand. Behind them, a young man came into view—near their age, perhaps a bit older. He wore dark sunglasses, which was not altogether unheard of at night for the young who marched to the beat of a drummer all their own.

Lucy and Annie turned in his direction and lingered in their perusal of him.

Suddenly, the raven made a deep rasping call.

The twins looked up.

Behind them, a blood-curdling scream and a small explosion sounded as the large coffee met the cement.

Rebekah spun just in time to see Lucy knocked to the ground and the man with the sunglasses dragging Annie away. She blinked once and incredibly, both were gone.

A flash of color crossed her field of vision as Robbie took off in pursuit. She instinctively grabbed her purse and quickly followed after him.

Get in the store, Lucy! she yelled as they raced past. Don’t leave until we come back for you!

Should I call 911? Lucy asked, rolling into a sitting position there on the cement.

Rebekah heard the question loud and clear, but gave no answer as she trailed her brother between the buildings. Calling the cops was the last thing they needed, but she had no time to explain. With any luck, this would be over before they arrived. A small part of her wanted to stop, grab Lucy by the neck and shout: This is why I wear these shoes all the time! This is why! Having to jump out of a bedroom window at a young age teaches a person to always be prepared.

Of course, she didn’t. Perhaps later she would do exactly that. Tonight was exactly why. She and Robbie had had that lesson reaffirmed many times over the years since that fateful night their house had been set on fire by a vengeful vampire and their mother and Aunt Vanessa kidnapped.

* * *

Robbie saw no one as he whipped around the building. Though he knew he was only seconds behind, it felt like minutes. No matter how little time had elapsed, he feared it was entirely too much. He tried not to think about what that meant, and what might have already happened to Annie.

In a flash, he saw her being slammed abruptly against a wall by her assailant. He had her in the midst of a large flowerbed surrounded by tall bushes. His expression was wild in spite of the sunglasses that still sat there on the bridge of his nose, obscuring his eyes. His lips gnarled and extended, he exposed terrible teeth that looked as if they meant to do far worse than simply tap into a vein. Teeth more than capable of getting past whatever barrier was put before them—clothing, muscle, bone.

The vampire went for the girl’s throat just as Robbie came bursting through the shrubbery, kicking up walk-on bark.

No! he shouted, but made no effort to engage.

The vampire paused and turned to face him. He snarled once, removing his glasses and tossing them away, then glared at Robbie with piercing eyes. This one’s mine! the vampire hissed through fully erect canines. I mean to assuage my hunger with her blood. Get in my way and I will have yours first.

Robbie noted the sound of his sister’s arrival behind him, but didn’t look back. She would be kneeling now and slowly reaching into her purse. They’d performed this choreographed move many times whenever a single vampire thought he was multiple steps ahead of them.

No, Robbie answered the vampire’s threat calmly, one ear trained on Annie, monitoring her erratic breathing. "She is mine," Robbie said. He slowly backed off three steps until he heard his sister clear her throat. He stopped and stuck out his right hand, curling his forefinger repeatedly in the universal signal that beckoned the monster before him to ‘come and get me’.

The vampire’s nostrils flared once.

Rebekah didn’t flinch. Not yet.

The vampire sprung.

Rebekah removed the first stake and slapped it into her brother’s left hand as if handing the baton in a relay. Trusting implicitly what the outcome would be, she quickly reached for the second one.

The stainless steel stakes as they were called happened to be, in fact, so much more. They had been gifts given to them from Nathaniel, more out of necessity than desire. He was a vampire himself and the gifts of protection had been given to them without their parents’ knowledge—not that they didn’t know who or what Nathaniel was, because they did. However, their protests would have been irrational and simply out of some misguided parental fear. Their fear was real. How they might meet that fear was not. The idea that the twins should navigate this newly discovered world that had previously been hidden to them without some kind of protection was absurd, and bordered on insanity.

The vampire took notice of the weapon as it came into play, but didn’t allow it to distract him. His expression seemed to indicate that he wasn’t troubled by its presence in the least. After all, nothing could match a vampire’s speed. Two quick steps. He reached out for Robbie’s throat to end his impetuous life, but Robbie surprised him by spinning away at just the right moment. The vampire must have heard the sound as Rebekah snapped her stake to life, but no doubt didn’t realize the magnitude of his error until she rose and swung it like a left-handed batter at a telegraphed curveball. The blow shattered his planted right knee.

The vampire screamed as bone fragments exploded beneath his jeans. He lost his equilibrium as his wounded right leg took out his left and the world spun out of control. He fell uncontrollably into a heap, half on and half off the sidewalk. He lifted his head, but that was as far as he got as Robbie brought his fully extended stake down across the back of his skull, driving him into the cement walkway with a terrible crack.

The vampire wore a look of complete confusion as he found himself suddenly grabbed by the ankles and dragged back into the flowerbed. His eyes darted everywhere, but didn’t seem to understand what they were searching for or what they were seeing. Blood was leaking from the left one. Something gray and mucus-like leaked out of his right ear as well.

Although it had been a perfect attack, the twins acted quickly. They knew full well how fast a wounded vampire could regain his senses. They pulled him deep into the darkness of the flowerbed to shield what would come next.

Get her out of here! Robbie ordered without looking back to check on Annie’s condition. He recognized that she was no longer in any danger and that was all he had time to process.

Already on it, his sister replied. He heard her snap her wrist and telescope the weapon closed. It’s okay now, he heard Rebekah say softly to Annie. Come with me.

Robbie held a steely gaze upon the vampire who had now begun to attempt to roll over as he listened for Rebekah and Annie moving behind him. He waited for his sister’s cue.

Clear! he heard her announce as she and Annie left the area. He felt along the bottom of the stake in his hands for a particular button. There were two. The button he wanted had a raised character on it. He pressed it, causing the farthest two sections of the weapon to telescope back, revealing an inner blade. He kicked the vampire onto his back with his left foot and noted that his eyes had locked onto him. Very soon, his strength would return. Robbie didn’t intend to wait that long. Reliving the moment when he feared he had lost Annie before he ever had her, he ran the blade through the heart of the vampire and didn’t stop until the ground beneath him prevented the blade from moving any further.

The vampire howled. The stab brought him fully back to his senses. Robbie fell to his knees