In My Blood

In My Blood

by

Kenneth Gordon

Published by

CLASS ACT BOOKS

121 Berry Hill Lane

Port Townsend, Washington 98368

www.classactbooks.com

Copyright  2017 by Ken Gordon

Names, characters and incidents depicted in this book are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental and beyond the intent of the author or the publisher.

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

ISBN: 978-1-946523-14-3

Credits

Cover Artist: Kenneth Gordon

Editor: Trudy Myers

Copy Editor: Anita York

Printed in the United States of America

Dedication

To God, the Author of all creativity and my long-suffering, ever reading wife.

Acknowledgements

First I must thank Dr. Lynne Weihrauch, HIV doctor that helped me get the science of the plague right. Thanks to Adam N. for all the feedback. Thanks to Frodo the cat for the inspiration for this novel.

Chapter 1

What a choice I have to make. Am I willing to give my life for a people that I do not know, on a world that is not my own?

~ * ~

Four Months earlier…

Thomas Anderson, a premed student about to start his junior year of college at Emory University in Georgia, walked toward his first meeting with the new student. He came to campus early just so he could meet with his charge. With each new freshman class, incoming students would be paired with upperclassmen to help them settle in and answer any questions they might have. This was Thomas’ first time and he’d looked forward to it, as he found the process invaluable. His own pairing caused him to have a friend for life, so he believed in the program.

Kai-min, Thom said aloud. Wonder what kind of a name that is? Very unusual.

He searched Oxford Road for a pair of eyes that didn’t look comfortable, the wide-eyed stare of a newcomer, on campus for the first time. Sometimes he’d be studying a map, books in hand or wearing a school shirt or sweatshirt. If wearing a camera strapped around his neck, he could pass for a tourist in this strange land called college.

This was the place they were supposed to meet. People were hustling and bustling around. Cars passed on the street.

Kai-min, Thom called into the crowd.

A short man with a slightly odd look responded to the hail. Thom walked closer to his charge.

It’s pronounced Ki-min.

Oh, hi. I’m Thom. I’ll be your upper-class mentor, of sorts.

Thank you, Kai said with a short smile.

He was dressed in a school shirt with a backpack full of books. His skin was light, almost ashen, his straight, light brown hair hung around his shoulders. His movements were somewhat gangly, perhaps a bit awkward.

Pleased to meet you, Kai-min. Is that Japanese? Thom extended his hand and grasped Kai’s.

It was cold and clammy.

No…I…

Let’s get some coffee, encouraged Thom.

Sounds good.

Thom led his new charge to the coffee shop. It was one of many shops on campus. The two found a table at almost immediately.

What do you want? asked Thom.

I don’t know.

I’m buying, he said, as he tried to persuade his charge.

I’ll have whatever you like.

All right. Shrugging, Thom turned away with an upturned lip as an awkward thought shot through his mind.

He ordered two large coffees, light and sweet with a shot of peppermint. He then returned to the table and set the drinks before him. Kai-min took a taste. His eyes bugged, and he coughed and sputtered.

Not a coffee guy, I take it?

What is in this vile concoction?

Just coffee, milk, sugar and peppermint extract.

Not at all what I was expecting. Kai stuck out his tongue. It circled around and pulled back into his mouth like a worm purging the taste from his palate.

I did ask you what you wanted, and you did trust me to get it for you. Try it again, Thom coaxed.

Again, Kai-min brought the cup to his lips and sampled the brew. This time, he licked his lips. Hmmm. That is good. He smiled.

Thom returned his smile. I know, right? It just took you trying it again to realize you liked it after all.

His new friend took another sip and seemed to savor every drop.

Sometimes our preconceived notions stand in the way of enjoying something new, Thom remarked.

Kai downed the rest of the coffee. Can I get more coffee?

Maybe later. First I want to talk to you.

Very well. His face lost all expression as his gray eyes fixed on Thom.

A little shudder coursed through his mentor’s back as he swallowed hard and tried to look like he was paying attention. I’m from New England, so I felt like I was an alien when I arrived here.

Kai-min reeled in shock. His eyes grew wide and his small mouth was open slightly. In an instant, he found his composure again.

Thom looked at the counter out of the corner of his eye. Why do I get the weird ones?

The culture shock must have been extraordinary. I know I wasn’t prepared when I first came here, Kai said.

Yeah, it’s so different. The way people speak, it’s hard to understand sometimes. The difference between ‘pin’ and ‘pen’ for example. I’ve learned to enjoy things like sweet tea, barbeque, hush puppies, corn bread and other southern favorites.

‘Hush Puppies?’ I didn’t think they served dog here.

Thom laughed. No, they are made of corn meal and chopped onion, and fried. Originally, they were to keep the dogs quiet. Thus, the name, ‘hush puppies.’

I see. Never been able to understand, um…people.

Do you mean Americans? What country do you come from?

Way far, a far away country. I hope you get to visit. That country. He pointed toward the ceiling nervously.

Thom took another sip of coffee and tried to look comfortable. This guy is weird, but there’s something about him, something different, something odd.

What do you want to study? he asked.

"What are you studying?"

I’m premed. This is my junior year. After I graduate, I’ll be going to medical school and eventually become a doctor. My grandmother always wanted me to become a doctor. Now I get to fulfill her dream. He sighed happily.

I’ll be premed, too, then.

Well, great. I may see you around then.

Yes, and we can have these meetings regularly, too, Kai suggested.

Yeah, sure…um…why not? That’s what this program is for, right? Even in the air-conditioned café, Thom could feel himself starting to sweat. It always happened when he became nervous.

The two shook hands and parted ways.

Thom left the cafe and walked aimlessly down the street, alone with his thoughts.

That was the most bizarre person I’ve ever met. I hope I never have to see him again. Why did they stick me with him? No idea what country he’s from, but the fact he didn’t want to tell me makes me wonder. Maybe he’s from some Middle East country where he’d be thought of as a terrorist in this country, so he can’t tell me. I don’t know. Good riddance to him.

~ * ~

A few days later, Thom was swimming in the Woodruff PE center pool. Kai-min was watching from the bleachers.

After a few laps around the pool, Thom came up out of the water and walked to where he’d placed his towel. He had a thin, but muscular build. His curly hair dripped onto his chiseled body.

As Thom wiped his face and looked out from behind the towel, his mysterious friend approached.

Oh, hi, there, Thom said, disgruntled.

I was watching you.

Oh great, he’s stalking me.

You were? Um… Why? At that point, Thom lowered the towel, revealing a peculiar mark in the center of his chest.

Kai-min became excited and Thom had no clue why. He was practically jumping up and down.

Are you okay, Kai?

That is a very interesting mark on you. Have you always had it?

Um… No. This just happened a few days ago.

The chorine smell must be getting to him. He could feel the chemicals affect his own eyes.

Tell me how it happened, Kai begged.

Well, the day before I came back to school to meet with you, I took my cat outside for a lap around the yard. I was holding him in my arms. A truck came by and made a lot of noise, and the cat started freaking out, trying to get away. I held onto him as securely as I could but his claws ripped a hole in my shirt and created this weird pattern on my chest. It kinda looks like a reverse N.

Yes, yes. That is why I am excited. Because, you…you are the Chosen One. Kai pointed at Thom.

What? What the devil are you talking about?

I am not college student. I am an ambassador sent to find the Chosen One. This is you.

Okay, buddy…um…time to get some air. Go on outside. I’ll be out in a minute. Thom dismissed the entire thing.

The strange man walked out of the center as Thom got dressed and left the building, too. The two met up at the grove of trees outside the center.

As you likely guessed, I’m not from this country.

Yeah, you’re from the Middle East, aren’t you?

No, much further. With each second, Kai grew more and more animated.

How far?

About forty-five Earth days.

What? Are you are telling me, you are from another planet? Thom was flabbergasted.

Yes. Kai beamed, his body shaking like an excited puppy.

Okay, time to lay off the drugs and get your tinfoil hats. Maybe a trip to the counseling departme… Thom’s suggestion cut off in mid-word.

I am not mentally deficient. I have been sent to this world to find the Chosen One. You are he.

I hate to ask, but…can you prove that? Thom questioned, suspiciously.

Come with me.

Alright. Thom said, cautiously.

Kai-min walked to his car, parked about five hundred feet away, a 1959 Ford Galaxy convertible, two-tone blue.

Now, that’s what I’m talkin’ about, Thom exclaimed.

The two jumped in and roared off. Thom always wanted to ride in a classic car, and this was as classic as it got. He leaned back and enjoyed the raw power. They left campus and proceeded down the main road, Thom yelling and screaming with delight.

All at once, Kai-min turned toward a group of trees.

Wait! Stop! Where are you going? Wha? Hey! Thom closed his eyes, waiting for the impact.

Instead, there was a sudden acceleration, then silence. Slowly, he opened his eyes, looking around.

Wait a sec. Where are we?

We left the ground a few moments ago. This scout ship is capable of disguising itself in any form I choose. When I first came to your world, I was expecting to see every vehicle on the road to be of the same era as this one. I was mistaken.

Thom shifted his weight uncomfortably. You really are from another planet? You aren’t just some nut bar, crazy guy?

That’s right, Kai said as he banked the ship to the right.

Whoa, how come I’m not being thrown against the wall of the car right now?

It’s the passive restraint system. The original model did not have any such system, so one had to be adapted for it.

Now, back to this ‘Chosen One’ business. Thom refocused the conversation.

Yes. I am so very glad I found you.

Let me get this straight. My cat messes me up, and now I’m the Chosen One?

Precisely.

Now what? inquired Thom.

Now I take you back, and we talk about what you must do.

Okay, I’m ready, wheeeeee!

The ship changed. A clear canopy came up over the top and a slight hum began. There was a sudden thrust of power as they achieved escape velocity. A few minutes later, the ship achieved a high orbit and they both looked back at the fragile blue planet.

How long were you on Earth before you found me?

I was prepared to spend up to one year on your world. Thank the Prophets, it didn’t take that long. We did an orbital scan four cycles ago, then in the previous cycle, your location had moved to the Southern United Sates.

Yeah, I had to get to school, but you knew that. Wait…money…if you don’t have Earth money, how did you pay for your school?

Your computer systems are primitive. It was very easy to insert my name into your registrar. It was only by the Prophet’s will that we met.

You had no idea what I looked like? Thom looked over at Kai, stunned.

We only scanned for the pattern.

Then it was only coincidence that we were paired up.

There are no coincidences, declared Kai.

The scout ship turned around and headed back. Flames engulfed it as reentry took over.

I can’t feel a thing, remarked Thom.

This scout ship has shields built in to protect it from the heat. We will be landing shortly.

Too bad NASA didn’t have one of these. It would have really helped the space program.

From what I have seen, your space program is about as advanced as the model this scout ship is based on.

Thom chuckled. I know, right?

Chapter 2

A short time later, the car landed and changed back into a land vehicle.

This is so cool. I’ve met someone from another world.

Kai-min smiled and drove him to his dorm.

Let’s see. Thom considered. I have to pack, tell the school I’m taking a Sabbatical and… What do I tell my parents? The Chosen One wouldn’t lie, would he?

Certainly not. Kai shook his head.

What do I tell them? It can’t be the truth… I know, I’ll tell them I was chosen for a research project. How long will I be gone?

Who can tell? Kai shrugged.

"An extended research project."

You will not need your clothes.

What? I can’t go naked.

You will be provided clothes when we arrive. Kai-min chuckled.

Can I at least take some underwear? I can’t wear any synthetics.

You may take your underwear.

Can I take a week…

Time is of the essence, you must come.

What about tomorrow? Thomas asked.

That is acceptable.

Thom got out of the car and raced for his room. Moments later, he was on the phone with the school. He told them he had been selected for an extended research project and he would have to take this semester off and possibly longer. It was a good thing the semester hadn’t started yet. There were still two days before it began. He got a confirmation number to give to the Comptroller, then he called his mother.

Mom…

What is it, son? What’s wrong? Her words cut to the heart of the matter.

I have to suspend school for a while.

Why?

He could almost hear her brow furrowing.

The government approached me yesterday. They’ve chosen me for an extended research project.

Where? This was the only question she could muster out of the thousands pounding into her mind. How long will you be gone?

Mom, I don’t know how long it will be. You must know when the government calls, you have to go. He only slightly exaggerated the truth, They won’t tell me where. I just have to do my part.

What will you be doing?

Something with medical research, I imagine.

You’re only third year, and premed at that.

I know, Mom. It’s going to be okay. I’m going to be okay. He tried to sound confident before he lost his resolve.

Can we call you during your expedition?

I don’t think so.

Thom could hear the disappointment in her voice. A short pause built the tension on the phone.

Yes, Mom… He anticipated her next question. I have the confirmation number. I’ll run it by the office today. Before she could think of something else to keep him on the line, he said, Yes, Mom, I will.

I love you, Thom.

Love you, too. ’Bye, Mom. Thom let out a whistle.

At that moment, his roommate showed up at the door, ready to move in.

Hey, Thom.

Yeah, hey.

Whaddup, boy?

His roommate was tall, black, had the physique of a bodybuilder, and was very, very Southern. They’d roomed together for a couple of semesters.

Yeah, Zeke, I have to go. Thom avoided his gaze.

You just got here. How’d it go with the newbo?

He’s a little strange, but it’s going to be okay. Here’s the thing. Thom drew in a deep breath. I’ve been offered a research project for the government. I don’t know how long I’m going to be gone, but I won’t be here for this semester, at least.

What kind of project? Even now, Zeke’s thick drawl made it difficult for Thom’s Northern ears to understand.

That’s just it, I don’t know. The only thing I do know is I have to leave tomorrow. Can you give me a hand moving out?

Sure enough, bud. Just…um…help me movin’ in? All right?

Sure.

At least you savin’ on food. More fer me, huh?

You can eat my share, if you want. Thom chuckled.

I knew you’d agree.

Oh, man… Thom looked at his watch. I have to get to the financial office before they close.

He sped out of their room and into the Comptroller’s office. The Georgia heat and humidity made running feel like slow motion and when he stopped, he hadn’t moved very far. Sweat poured down his face. His shirt front and back showed an ever-expanding wet ring.

~ * ~

The financial office always smelled like mildew. He was surprised the elderly man behind the desk hadn’t died from some horrible disease by now.

So, Thom, you’ve been accepted on a government research project. Do you have the confirmation number? The man eyed him with suspicion. He was so obese and Thom could hear him breathing.

Thom handed him the piece of paper he’d written it on.

Ah yes. The old man typed one finger at a time on his computer, There it is. While it is unorthodox for a student to leave, I’ll allow it. It sounds like a great opportunity. It’s also a good thing classes haven’t started yet. We’ll keep your payments and apply them toward the semester you come back. You are planning to come back, right? The old man stared at Thom over the top of his glasses.

Yes, sir. I’ll be back.

Very good, son. We’ll see you then.

Oh, can I get some help? I need to move my things back home again.

I think we can do that. Talk with Shirley at the post office. I’ll let her know you’re coming.

Thanks, Thom stood in anticipation of leaving.

The Comptroller picked up his corded phone and began to press the buttons. He waved Thom on as Thom extended his hand to shake, but the Comptroller was too heavily involved in the conversation to notice.

He did give Thom a strange look as he turned and exited the office, and the gaze went unnoticed.

~ * ~

It seemed a long walk to the post office, which was part of the student center and near a bookstore and the cafeteria. By now, it was just before dinner. Thom swung open the post office door and entered.

The whole room smelled like old books.

Shirley?

Yeass. A short blonde woman with brown eyes approached the desk. She was plumb, yet somewhat attractive. Her cheeks were rosy and her dimples showed when she smiled.

Did the Comptroller contact you?

Yuur Thom, right?

Um, yes, ma’am.

That’s quite a pickle you got yourself into.

Can you help me?

She pointed to her chin and pressed her lips together. Just then, his roommate appeared behind him with all his stuff in tow. Before he could respond, his cell phone rang.

Hello?

Thom, it’s your mother.

What’s wrong, Mom? You only use the ‘it’s your mother’ when something’s wrong.

No, nothing wrong, I just need to tell you that your father is flying down tonight. He’ll pick up your car and drive it home.

Oh, really? That’s great. Now I don’t have to worry about it. Thanks so much. Love you. ’Bye.

His roommate looked at him as if he already knew what he was going to say.

My father is flying down tonight to get my stuff and my car and drive it back. That’s a load off my mind.

So, you want me to make yer bed up again fer ya? Zeke inquired.

No. He patted his friend on the shoulder. I’ll make it up when I get back from dinner. If you’d be willin’ to take all the stuff back to the room.

Sure. No problem.

Thanks, Shirley.

By now, Shirley had her back, busy with something else.

~ * ~

Thom walked out of the post