1. Chapter 1 (1/2)

genesis

kristi lambert

copyright 2015 by kristi lambert

kindle edition

this book is protected under copyright laws of the united states of america. any other production or other unauthorized use of the material is prohibited.

thank you mom for believing in me. thanks to the girls at café perks for putting up with me for hours. thank you victor for coming in my classroom that day and asking, "ms. lambert, are you gonna write that book." you were an answer to a prayer. my daughter who makes the sun set each day for me-this is for you.

one

the light coming from the ceiling flickered off and on hinting at the bulb's age. the body in the bed didn't stir. at first glance, the human eye might think it was seeing a corpse. a fly circled before landing on her fingertip. its legs rubbed against the surface of her skin. a flinch-just her thumb. then, air, as her lungs came to life. the first thing she registered was a low, drumming sound, and after a second she realized it was her pulse. she could hear it inside her head.

her eyes hurt. she tried to blink which caused a stinging sensation. she squeezed her lids together to stop the pain causing a single tear to fall from the corner of her eye. there was a stench in the air. it made her gag because it smelled like medicine. she went to lift her arm and winced. with effort, she lifted her head from the pillow to see what was causing the pain. there was a needle lodged in her vein.

it dawned on her that she was in a hospital. her vision was blurry, and she was alone. her gaze scanned the room as the drumming sound increased. her heart punched in her chest. her mind was a blank-nothing. not one image or name came to mind. not even her own. she didn't notice the nurse enter the room.

"well, glad to see you're with us again," she said.

"where am i?" she pushed out through stiff lips.

"you're in mercy hospital. how are you feeling?"

"what happened to me?" the girl demanded.

"you were found lying in the middle of the road. you were unconscious," she paused before adding, "strange for someone so young."

the nurse raised her bed, and the girl saw a small, white board nailed to the wall. mercy hospital welcomes genesis. we hope to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

the nurse followed her gaze. "do you know who that is?" her voice was

ight.

"no."

"that's you."

she felt vomit rise in her throat. she didn't know her own name.

"why can't i remember anything?"

"my name is patsy. if you need anything, genesis, just let me know."

genesis, my name is genesis.

"why can't i remember anything?" her voice rose with agitation.

the nurse pursed her lips. the girl could tell she was deciding whether or not to answer the question. then, she pasted a smile on her face.

"why don't i go get the doctor while you rest?" she put her hand behind the girl's head to plump the pillows, adjusted the thin, beige sheet, and patted the girl's knee beneath the scarce covering. with that the nurse left the room humming a tune. the lingering scent of her perfume which reeked of dead flowers hung in the air.

she must have dozed off. when she opened her eyes again, she saw that night blanketed the sky. there was a light sprinkle of snow falling while the stars seemed to wink at her through the window. their cheerfulness annoyed her.

just then, the nurse came

eezing through the door. that sickly, sweet fragrance of her perfume made the girl's stomach churn even more. she wanted to scrub that awful smell from her skin .the nurse glanced over at her from the sink as a huge smile lit her round face.

genesis didn't return the smile.

"does anyone know where i am? why isn't there anyone here? have you told my parents?"

patsy must have seen the confusion etched on her face because she narrowed her eyes.

"you don't remember anything do you- nothing at all?" pasty seemed to hold her

eath as she waited for the girl to answer. her posture was rigid. the nurse had been nothing but kind to genesis. despite that, some instinct warned genesis the kindness was fake. that made her nervous, so instead of answering the question, she turned her head back to the frosted window letting the darkness fold her in its comforting em

ace.

two

"gen… genesis… wake up." genesis was still groggy as she opened her eyes. a face was close to hers. she could feel the person's

eath on her forehead. genesis jerked back as far as the bed would allow. it was a girl. genesis's reaction had no impact on her. her eyes bored into genesis's face. she didn't speak as she studied genesis. she looked like she was of asian descent, although her skin and hair were pale as snow. there was a luminous quality to her skin,

and she had two red roses in the stark whiteness of her hair. it was pulled up in a bun. her eyes were a piercing, gray color. the skin around them was

uised.

she should have looked sick, but somehow she didn't. if anything, the girl appeared to be full of life. she was bursting with a vital energy. the stranger flung herself into the chair next to the bed. she crossed one leg over the other. she began to tap her foot on the floor.

turning towards genesis she said, "i've had enough. i am ready to get out of here. i cannot stand hospitals. the colors are supposed to be soothing, but instead they make me want to put a hole in something. and what is that they are making you wear? it's like a green tent."

she reached up behind her to knock her knuckles against the wall. "it looks like pastels threw up all over this." she knocked again on the wallpaper craning her neck so she could see genesis. "is this soothing to you?"

genesis just stared. it was obvious the girl knew her, but genesis had no idea who she was.

after a moment, she looked at genesis then back up at the ceiling in annoyance. "right, they said at the nurses' station you had a bump on the head or something so you can't remember some things. but, would you do me a favor by not ogling me with your mouth open. it's not flattering."

genesis averted her eyes, but her tone was anything but mild. "it's not just some things. i don't remember anything at all-including you."

as soon the words left genesis's mouth, a sharp sensation stabbed inside her head. she saw the beautiful asian girl dressed in pure white. a smear of blood was across one cheek. her face wore an expression of such sadness and resolve. genesis had the feeling the girl was going to do something that caused her great sorrow, but she was going to do it anyway. her hair was writhing about her head; no longer confined in a bun. it was weaving and twisting into long strands. she turned to shout something. genesis couldn't hear or see who she was shouting to.

but when her head turned back, genesis knew that whoever was on the receiving end of that stare was in great peril. her hand rose, and just like that the image was gone. but one word formed in genesis's head. mae. genesis knew without a doubt that the girl's name was mae.

the girl had been quiet as she watched genesis, but now a slow grin spread across her face.

"you remember me don't you?" she jumped up off the chair. "i knew you would, i just knew," she said as her face glowed. "i am very hard to forget," mae revealed as she smoothed

the top of her hair, though no strands were out of place as far as genesis could tell. "fantastic, now we can get out of this place and go home." mae pulled the sheet off genesis.

"i don't think that's such a good idea," interjected a voice edged with steel.

mae's head turned toward the opened door as nurse patsy stepped in, and stopped in front of genesis's bed.

though spoken in a polite way, genesis could see the warning look in the nurse's small eyes. she placed her body in front of the bed trying to block mae's view of genesis.

mae inclined her head. "oh, now don't you worry about genesis. she's my best friend. she'll be just fine. it's not like i'm going to make her scrub the baseboards or anything." while the reply may have come across as nothing more than sarcasm, genesis had the distinct impression that there was nothing funny in the room right at that moment.

mae and patsy were strangers, yet there was an undercurrent passing between them. a silent message going on only they understood.

pasty slanted her eyes a bit. "i don't think that's such a good idea, my dear. now, you run along. it's getting late. genesis isn't going anywhere tonight. "

in response to the woman's innocent words, mae's hair began to stir as if a gentle

eeze swept in the room. one white strand slipped loose of the bun. it appeared to elongate while it slithered across mae's neck. genesis blinked. every hair was back in place.

mae was dead serious. "patsy, you're very lucky genesis is here right now. you have no idea how lucky. do not push me. "

patsy's face turned an unflattering shade of red. without another word, she turned on her heel heading for the door. but right before she left, she turned back to genesis, giving her a single look which made the hair on genesis's neck stand up. hostility lived in that look. and then, just like that, it was gone. mae's eyes lingered on the door before saying, "let's go."

genesis began to scurry off the bed. not knowing what to do with the iv still in her arm, she gritted her teeth and tugged. she grimaced at the pain. she had no idea why she was listening to this girl. genesis didn't know what else to do. she was feeling a little lightheaded as she asked mae, "do you know patsy? it seemed to get a little personal there."

"never met her before in my life." mae's hand was on the handle of the hospital room door.

genesis frowned. "then how did you know her name?" but her question was met with silence as mae walked out the door.

three

genesis stepped out into the frigid night, shivering when the biting wind whipped her hair around her face lashing her cheek. she could see her

eath in the air turning into little, white puffs. genesis was anxious, though she supposed anxious wasn't exactly the right word to describe how she felt. she stood on the wet road not quite sure what to do. she had no idea where to go, and nothing looked familiar. is this where i live? do i live in this city, what is this city? the buildings were huge to genesis. she didn't remember any buildings that appeared similarly to these she was now standing in front of. the cold was starting to get worse. genesis was lost. she felt faint tears of desperation dampen her eyes. she started at the unsettling feeling. she put a hand to her eyes, and wiped an errant tear away. it was shiny on her finger. genesis couldn't remember the feeling of tears. to her, tears were a blessing because that meant she could feel. genesis had an intrinsic notion that she never cried. she heard movement beside her. mae stood in the falling snow. there was an unreadable expression on her face.

genesis decided to be blunt. "what is going on here? i'm in the hospital, and you're the only one that shows up? have i been ill? and where is my family?" she grabbed mae by the arm. "you said that we're friends. that means you must know about my life. tell me, mae.

what happened to me?" she could hear the weakness in her voice and hated it more than anything.

mae scrunched her forehead up like she wasn't sure how to answer. at last, she blew out her

eath and said, "it's like this gen; you don't have any parents. well, not any parents for a long time."

her eyes shifted when she spoke. "all i know is that there was some sort of accident, and your parents were killed. i am very sorry to have to tell you this."

there was a giant fist wrapping around genesis's heart. her throat felt constricted. she stared at mae, but she wasn't quite seeing her. mae's words tried to take root in her head. she felt the hot sting of tears, but she would not let mae see her cry again. she closed her eyes in an effort to come to terms with this information. no parents, no parents. they're dead.

genesis opened her eyes to see mae had moved closer to her. tension emanated from mae, and genesis could sense that she was uneasy. genesis knew that this girl wasn't being completely honest with her. mae knew much more than she was telling.

the words burst from genesis before she could stop them. "so that's it? i'm alone in the world. i have nothing and no one. not even my memory. i don't even know how old i am."

"you're seventeen years old," mae said.

"what's wrong with me?"

mae tilted her head. "what do you mean?"

"i passed out, and i have no memory. to me, that means there's something wrong."

"is that what they told you, gen? see, they told me you hit your head when you slipped. the streets have been slippery the last few days. hospitals get it wrong all the time. that nurse didn't know what she was talking about." mae dismissed genesis's concern with a little wave of her hand.

genesis took a step forward. "but, mae…"

by now, mae was losing patience. "look, gen, don't worry about it. tell me, do you feel sick?"

"no, actually i don't."

mae's smile was big. "see, what did i tell you?" she nudged genesis with her elbow. "just to be clear, you aren't alone in the world. you have us. we'll be there for you."

genesis found that she couldn't return that grin. her lips felt as if they would never smile again. she stood there on the damp road with snowflakes falling all around. she tried to make sense of what mae said. genesis had a sudden wish that she was still in that hospital unconscious. she wished the blanket of oblivion still covered her so she didn't have to face this; even if it were only for a little longer.

"mae, wait a minute. you said that we'll be there for you. what do you mean? who are we?"

mae clapped her hands in delight. "well, guess there's nothing wrong with that old

ain of yours," she said as she tapped genesis on the head. "didn't know how long it would take you to pick up on that one. no offense gen, but sometimes you can be a little slow. thank goodness you have me around," mae said as if it was a tremendous burden.

"mae, do i or do i not have family out there somewhere?

"well, of course you do."

genesis felt a rush of joy surge through her. "my family; i knew it. i knew i had to have some family out there."

mae put up her hand to cut her off. "no. the family."

genesis didn't see the difference. family meant family, but to mae it must have meant something different.

"who is the family? just tell me because it's freezing out here. i want to go home." genesis faltered before saying, "wherever home is."

mae stepped closer linking her arm through genesis's. "don't worry, gen. it will all come back to you soon. you'll see."

they began to walk down the road sidestepping scattered puddles teeming with flecks of fallen snow. genesis was tired. she was bone weary. all she wanted to do was to curl up someplace warm, but she didn't want any dreams. she wanted darkness. she wanted a new day to dawn. it had to be better than this one.

as they were passing a building, genesis caught sight of herself in the glass. she stopped and stared at her reflection. long, black hair, and a short, slender shape. she noticed that she was just as pale as mae, and her eyes were black. to her shock, genesis saw a scar running down the side of her face. she turned to mae who seemed to anticipate her question. "i'll explain that later."

"but i want to know now," she insisted.

"no. i said later. quit being so difficult, gen, and let's go."

difficult. this girl had some nerve, but genesis said nothing. she started to walk, and her feet ached after a while. she knew better than to complain. the silence was

oken up with

the sound of an automobile or two hitting a puddle in the middle of the road. this caught genesis's attention so much that she stumbled a few steps before coming to a stop. they were moving so fast, and their shapes were random. genesis stiffened at this observation because she didn't remember automobiles looking anything like the ones that just passed by.

mae noticed and tugged at genesis's arm to keep her moving. after traveling a long time, it appeared they left the town, but her recollection was vague. the harder she tried to think about it, the harder it was for genesis to remember how they had gotten this far. if she had to go back to the town, there was no way she could find her way back. genesis didn't like that. she looked around, but she didn't see anything in the distance. she said to mae, "i thought we were going home. i don't see anything around here."

"we are," mae stressed. "the cemetery is right up there." she pointed a finger at something up the road, but it could not be seen in the dark.

genesis tripped. "did you just say cemetery? you did not just say a cemetery is where we live."

"yes, i did .the family is waiting. they've waited a long time for you."

just when genesis thought she would drop from exhaustion, she saw the outline of a dark shape up ahead. the cemetery was coming into view. they turned down a long, narrow road adorned with a tall, worn fence that stretched down into the distance. some tips of the fence had

oken off. a passerby could tell in an instant that the thin, wooden boards had been weathered by many storms. then, there it was, looming up in the night like a spector. as they drew near, the full impact of the place had genesis tensing as a rush of emotions overwhelmed her. massive trees were scattered among the graves, and their great leaf and moss covered

anches bowed low toward the ground as if they too were mourning the dead. a faint mist swirled through the over-grown grass covering the ancient looking stones. the gravestones themselves varied in size. some were straight, and others crooked or slanted. the air felt strange- heavy. genesis could feel it coating her skin. there were several, cracked roads that winded through the gravestones with a few lampposts casting a faint, golden hue to guide the way. she saw decayed bouquets of flowers in front of the gravestones. nothing but the twisted stems were left as a reminder to the dead that they were missed. as genesis walked, she passed a statue of a weeping angel. a shiver worked its way down her spine. she knew this place. she could feel it just like she felt the ground beneath her feet. genesis didn't want to go any further. self-preservation urged her to flee. to run as fast as she could away. she steeled her spine. one thing she did know about herself is that she was no coward.

without warning, they came upon a rambling house enclosed by a black gate. genesis was sure it was abandoned. it was gargantuan in size and shrouded in black. the windows were covered with a cloth. the structure was made of

ick, and had large windows with irons across each one. the

anches of the trees banged back and forth along its sides. the wind picked up speed, and an owl hooted in the distance. the air became caked with ice as a long, mournful howl vi

ated in the air. the

eeze was turning vicious, and mae began to run.

"gen, move it, you've got to hurry. come. on. now," she shouted over the wind.

genesis started to run in earnest. she wasn't sure why. it was the urgency in mae's voice that spurred her on. they raced up the

oken steps then crashed through the front door. they fell to the floor in a heap, and lay there gasping for a few seconds.

"that was so close," mae was gulping in air. "i really didn't think we were going to make it. you're such a slow poke, gen." mae reached down to help genesis off the floor. genesis stood up as mae proceeded to smooth her hair and straighten her clothes. her surroundings came into focus. it was exquisite in an old, world sort of way. candles- candles were everywhere. there was no other light except for the candles. she stepped out of the entrance way into a huge sitting room. there was a staircase made of iron that led up to each of the four floors, with long, wood banisters that ran along each of the four hallways. the furniture was ancient, but genesis got the impression that in its former days it was magnificent. it was dark, leather material that had an ample amount of creases, and rugs of clashing colors were strewn on the floor. huge candela

as were in every corner of the room. a fireplace blazed in the center of the room, casting eerie shadows on the wall. that's when genesis noticed the strangest thing. there were two large, crystal globes hanging in midair. genesis squinted her eyes to see the strings that held them up. she couldn't see anything. huh, nice trick, she thought. she inched closer to the crystal globes. she was compelled by some undeniable force. against her will, she extended a fingertip to touch one.

light illuminated the interior of the room. an image flashed across the glass exterior. red. rich, vi

ant, red. it resembled a strand of hair. it was soon replaced by an image of fire. sounds began to fill the air. moaning sounds implying great despair. flashes of faces blurred across the glass- then hair. the strands of red hair slipped in slow motion through fingertips, and

ought up against a mouth to be kissed. an ache settled in genesis's chest. a pressing weight followed that ache. genesis recognized it after a minute or so. satisfaction. she felt satisfaction.

her mind acknowledged the feeling even if it could not remember why she would feel the emotion. while genesis was preoccupied with this thought, the entire house began to quake.

four

genesis fell to the floor as the walls swelled inward. an unseen force was pressing on them from the outside. she could hear the whistling of the wind as the walls trembled around her. then, the shrieking and pounding began. genesis was certain the ceiling was going to cave in.

she searched for mae. when she finally came into sight, genesis saw that she was pressed against the wall.

"don't worry," said a voice behind her. "it will settle down in a few minutes."

genesis looked up from her position on the floor to see a tall young man standing over her. the first feeling that hit her was power. he had power, yet he possessed an aura of tranquility. a soothing quality that made genesis unafraid of the sounds coming from outside. his appearance reminded her of mae: the same extreme pale skin and whitish hair. it stood out in different directions- untamed. he had the same color eyes as mae- the same darkness.

"here, let me help you up," he said as he reached out a hand to assist her. as soon as genesis took his hand, all the noise inside her went quiet. he comforted her. it wasn't attraction-it was something else. he made her feel protected when she didn't even know him.

"thierry, she took that like a champ. she didn't even scream or cry. i told you she wouldn't." mae didn't appear to be fazed at all by what just happened. she walked up to genesis and said, "gen, say hello to thierry. but, don't expect much of a greeting from him or a smile. thierry lacks the normal social graces."

"be quiet, mae."

"oh, great, you're in good mood," mae arched an eye

ow. "before you take that superior attitude with me, shouldn't you be thanking me for getting gen here safely? i practically had to drag her down the street."

"am i the only one who just heard that?" genesis interrupted them. "the house almost came apart," she stressed, "and you two are talking as if nothing happened. the house almost came apart. what was that?"

she turned around to look at the boy mae called thierry who was standing there watching her. his eyes were unfathomable. he spoke, but his voice was a thread of a sound. "i almost forgot what you looked like when you were like this," he said to her. his jaw was clenched tight.

"what do you mean when i was like this? do i look different?"

thierry's shoulders were rigid. his hands curled into fists.

"yes," his tone was harsh. "yes you did change, you", he

oke off turning away from her as mae stepped toward genesis to finish what thierry had been about to say.

"don't mae," he said.

mae went over to thierry.

she

ought up a hand to touch his face. genesis might not remember mae right now, but she had a feeling that "gentle" was something mae never was. she was hurting, and genesis could see it.

"you can't, you know this, it cannot be told." mae nodded in agreement with thierry's comment.

genesis looked from mae to thierry not understanding. "what cannot be told? is it something about me? if it is, don't you think i have a right to know? please, tell me, what is going on?"

genesis saw the internal struggle play out across thierry's face. he ran his hand through his hair in a rough gesture. "it's not that we don't want to tell you genesis. can't you just try to remember?"

"remember what? my past-is that what you mean? i'm sorry to say this, but it's all a blank. everything about this night is all out of place. the cemetery, whatever was trying to get in here a minute ago? something almost took this place apart, and nobody seems upset about it. what could do that?" she emphasized those last words with force.

"you did that, genesis," he said.

"what in the world," she almost couldn't get the words out, "are you talking about?

"the house recognized you."

genesis couldn't believe what she was hearing. "houses," she spat, "don't recognize people!"

"this one does," he assured her.

"i see, so this "house" recognized me, and almost tore in half. it sure didn't seem happy to see me," she mocked.

thierry's response was not what she expected. "no, it isn't."

her face lost its condescending smile. goosebumps

oke out all over her skin.

thierry walked further into the living room as genesis followed. he stopped in front of a beautiful portrait of a cross. a man was kneeling in front of it praying. the painting had to be an antique. it was encased in a stained, wood frame. genesis could tell right away that this had been around for a long time. it was the only painting in the room. the rest of the walls were bare except for the peeling wallpaper. genesis wondered why they chose this painting, and this one only to put on the wall. it wouldn't be her first choice.

thierry turned to her. "do you believe in forgiveness, genesis?"

startled by his urgency, and the direction of the conversation, genesis could only stammer a reply. "well, i…i guess i do. but, since i don't remember much about myself at the moment i'm not sure, but i guess it's possible. what made you ask me that?"

"do you, genesis? at what point do we cross a line where mercy cannot find us?"

genesis didn't know what to say to him. she wasn't sure where this was coming from. it was such a peculiar thing to say. everything about this place and these two people came off as peculiar. something was different. she sensed it. however, since these were the only people who seemed to know her, what other choice did she have but to stay put? she risked a quick glance at mae who stood immobile. she knew thierry was waiting for an answer, she just wasn't sure what the correct answer was.

"i guess you cross a line when you don't care about forgiveness anymore."

he turned back to the painting. they stood like that for a few moments with no one moving.

"well, this is a hoot," mae sauntered more fully into the room. "and here i was, thinking i was going to be so bored this evening." she plopped down on one of the plush chairs. she threw her legs over one of the arms. "you know, thierry, you're going get wrinkles if you don't stop frowning so much."

"is everything a joke to you, mae? there is nothing funny about this. you know that. you know what's at stake here."

"would it kill you to try and be positive, thierry? for once, could you just try?"

"isn't there something you have to do mae? some trivial act that is important only to you." he turned away muttering to himself. "you are just like silas; two of a kind. always letting yourselves get in the way of what's important."

mae sat up straight in the chair. her eyes were mere slits in her face. small strands of her hair

oke loose from its confinement, weaving around her head, stretching and growing. it reminded genesis of the hospital, and the unusual interlude between mae and the nurse. "now thierry, i love you like a

other, but you don't want to make me angry." she tilted her head down just a bit and said, "you really do not want to make me angry." the air began to simmer.

a feeling entered the room mimicking a heartbeat. thierry continued to stare at mae. genesis could have sworn she saw the ghost of a smile hover over his lips.

"do you know how i feel, mae? do you have any idea?" he asked.

the air cleared, and mae's hair stopped its hypnotic weaving. every strand was back in place. she propped her chin in her hand as she regarded him.

"you're heart

oken, thierry, i know. you're no different than me."

genesis knew they were talking about her.

what have i done that i can't remember? what put me in a hospital with no memory?

"you mentioned that i look different. is there anything i may see to help jog my memory?" she asked.

thierry didn't say a word. his silence was answer enough. genesis began to have a terrible suspicion. these people knew a secret about her- an awful secret. she felt fear, yet she welcomed the emotion because it reminded her that she was alive. she longed to feel something instead of the yawning emptiness that held her in its un

eakable hold.

thierry spoke up. "are you hungry? i'm sure you must want something to eat. sit down and mae will

ing it to you."

"great, now i'm the maid too," mae said as she went into the kitchen.

they could hear pots banging behind the door. mae returned with a bowl of steaming pasta covered with a delicious smelling sauce and some baked

ead.

genesis made it to the table in less than a second. she was ravenous. she scooped the noodles with her hands in clumps, and shoved them into her mouth. her eyes closed in total abandonment. her taste buds sprang to life. she'd never tasted anything quite like it before.

she kept cramming mouthful, after mouthful, and still she couldn't get enough. she didn't stop until she finished every last bite. she grabbed a piece of

ead. it was still warm. she ripped it in half and bit into it. the smell and taste of the food- everything about it enthralled her. she wanted to cry it was so good. she slumped back in her chair because her stomach hurt, and then a wave of heat went up her neck making her ears burn. she acted like an animal. she even growled at some point when she thought they were going to take her food. she expected them to be repulsed or shocked by her behavior. instead, they sat gazing at her with a look of complete understanding. mae pushed the

ead closer to her with caution like she was afraid she would lose her hand in the process.

genesis wiped her mouth with her hand. "i guess i was a little hungry. it feels like i haven't eaten in forever. it just all tastes so good." she licked her fingers.

come to think of it, genesis couldn't recall food tasting this good. even though she was full, she craved more. she wanted to down the second loaf of

ead, but she was afraid it would make her sick.

thierry gestured upstairs. "genesis, you must be tired. your room is ready. we didn't change anything. it's exactly the same as when you left. we thought you would want it that way."

that caught genesis's attention. "when i left. you mean when i went in the hospital right?"

mae didn't meet her eyes. "yes, that's right."

they walked down a dim hallway lined with dozens of gleaming candles. on the right hand side of the hall, genesis noticed a bedroom. pink-it was all over. genesis went to push open the door for a closer look when mae stopped her by putting her arm out as a barrier.

"ah, i don't think so," mae admonished as she snapped the door closed right in genesis's face. "that," she tapped the door, "is my room. see that sign hanging on the doorknob?" the sign stated in bold, red letters, 'if you want to keep your foot don't put it in this room.' mae looked at genesis, "i mean it." genesis found herself resisting the urge to laugh.

they ended up at a room near the end of the hallway. mae told her, "this room is yours. the bed has been made up for you. i'll

ing you some clean clothes in just a few minutes."

mae turned to go then stopped. as if she couldn't help herself, she grabbed genesis in a tight hug.

"i almost can't believe this is real," she said in a hushed tone. "i can't believe that you're here. you're standing here in this house, and i am talking to you. talking. for so long it seemed that every time i saw you we were…" her voice trailed off. mae blinked her eyes with a quickness that betrayed her emotions.

"i missed you gen. i missed my friend."

with that, she left genesis standing in the hallway lined with candles. genesis tracked mae's progress, feeling more alone with every step separating them. she didn't stop standing there until the whiteness of mae's hair was swallowed up by the flickering flames. only then did she turn to enter the room she was told belonged to her.

genesis stepped into the room feeling instant disappointment. she was hoping her room would trigger a familiar memory. it didn't. this was a place she had lived in a forgotten life. she laughed to herself as she noticed that the décor of the room all seemed to be of a dark coloring. how fitting. was there ever any light in her life at all? the floor was mahogany wood with slight scuffs embedded in the surface. the curtains looked like silk, and were the deepest shade of burgundy. a couple of black chairs were positioned around the room along with a black, wooden bookcase. a black, crystal chandelier hung from the ceiling. the walls were covered with what looked like metal, black vines with tiny flowers at the end. they crawled up the length of the wall creating a living,

eathing tapestry. the comforter was also a deep burgundy with black pillows thrown across it. her attention was drawn to the oil painting above the bed. it was in such contrast to the rest of the room. it was a picture of the scales of justice. on the bottom a phrase was written in bold ink: "you can't escape judgment. it always finds you." genesis couldn't imagine herself picking such a strange fixture for her wall. she felt an ominous chill creep down the length of her spine. the image and the inscription upset her. she couldn't bear to look at it another minute. rubbing her arms against a sudden chill, she turned to go. the glint of an object caught her eye. it was coming from behind the dresser shoved up next to her bed. she bent closer realizing it was a photograph and stooped to pick it up. she stood that way for some time then pivoted around to stride out of the room. she had one person on her mind. she spotted him coming up the top of the grand staircase. she marched right up to him shoving the frame in his face. she received no reaction at all.

"explain this." genesis shook the frame at him. "why didn't you tell me about this? is this what i have to find out on my own? is this what you were talking about? that we were together? i don't like this-i don't like all this secrecy!"

"listen to me," thierry said. "we have never been together in that way, genesis. that would be impossible. it would be impossible because you're my sister."

five

morning was just

eaking as nurse patsy scurried down the sidewalk. the silence was

oken every few seconds by the clanging of delivery trucks cruising down the street. she kept her head down against the icy draft that stung her ears. patsy had to move fast, so her

eath kept coming in small spurts of soft, white frost. she was nervous. she kept glancing over her shoulder to see if one of them was following. silent as the grave, she thought erupting in high pitched giggles. it sounded like a small child laughing, but no human child possessed such an unearthly laugh.

she rushed past a tall, leafless tree then paused. her body blended into the tree, and then completely disappeared, masked by the innocent image the tree would provide. it was one of them- a sentinel. she was sure of it. she tried to keep her giggle inside because she knew that when they passed her all they would see was a towering oak. although sentinels might sense or smell her presence, when she took on the shape of a person or object she was invisible to them.

all they could see was the shape she imitated. she could also blend into objects, but not for long. even now, her body was beginning to burn from being immersed in the tree for these few moments. she began to feel a tingle of fear because she knew if they spotted her she was done for. after a few seconds, patsy began to relax somewhat as she felt her body release the tense

eath she had been holding when her spine jerked itself stiff as a bow string. she heard the small tsk, tsk, in her ear. pike allowed the glamour of nurse patsy's form to shimmer off to reveal his true self. to look at pike, a human would see a man in his early thirties. just your average, every day, person. he looked like he did right before his death. this was the same for all seekers who crossed. pike wasn't attractive. he had beady eyes, and a sharp, pointed nose. his thin hair was pulled back and clasped at the nape of his neck. his narrow shoulders were slightly hunched.

"i must say the tree disguise looks much better on you than that pitiful nurse's form; however, both disguises look better than your true self, pike." the derision continued. "honestly, all that scurrying around to do her bidding is taking a toll on you. all that shape shifting is making your skin look a little sallow…well now, come to think of it that isn't much of a change is it?"

pike regained his regular form. he was aggravated by the figure leaning against the lamp post. the young man stood with his arms and legs crossed over one another in a bored fashion. his appearance was that of a young man in his late teens; a youth that was deceptive. silas was anything but young, and he was anything but bored. silas always had something going on behind those keen eyes. his mind was razor sharp, always thinking, always plotting. he was wearing his usual plain, white shirt. silas hadn't changed at all since the day he died. he was tall, well formed, with the same look that was common of his kind: the strange gray eyes that seemed colorless, the white skin and course, white hair. pike was on alert as he eyed him. he knew silas was up to no good, so, pike waited. silas would tell him when he was ready.

"something you want to ask?" silas's demeanor was friendly, but it didn't fool pike. "did you find her? did you find genesis?" all traces of friendliness gone from his voice. "does she remember anything at all?"

pike began to sweat. "not from what i can tell, but the sentinels have her. before i could really pump her for info that annoying, smart mouthed one showed up."

"ah, the ever enchanting mae i assume. well, i knew that was going to happen. genesis was her best friend before their terrible falling out," silas delivered as he shook his head with sadness. however, pike knew that it amused him. "such a shame to see good friends become ferocious enemies. not that genesis remembers does she?" the statement came as a question, but silas knew the answer. "mae, of course, will struggle with herself whether or not to tell her all the juicy details. but the long, suffering thierry will refuse to let her. he is such a stickler for the rules. in order for the "plan" to work she has to remember everything on her own. that will buy me some time." silas continued to talk but his voice became quiet.

"majesty is going to be livid with you. you do realize that, silas. you lied to her. her fury will have no bounds. when she finds out what you've done, she'll want blood. you lied," pike repeated, "to her!"

"yes, i know. it's hard to believe isn't it? to tell you the truth i didn't think it was going to be that easy. to think that i outsmarted the likes of her, well, it does make one proud." silas all but patted himself on the back. "and, yes, i know she will be furious with me, but it had to be done. when my plan comes to fruition, she won't be able to thank me

enough. she won't be angry anymore. besides, majesty is out of the way for the moment; out of commission so to speak. we will deal with her later, when the time is right."

pike nodded in agreement.

"right now, there are only two players we have to worry about: mistress and the unsuspecting genesis. genesis will help me settle the score. she doesn't know that yet, but she

will. those self-righteous sentinels with the code they live by," silas's face was a mask of repulsion. "never

eak the rules, put others first, totally forget our own needs and what we want." his voice dropped as he looked up towards the sky. "if i'd known it would be like this, i would have made a different choice."

he never thought all those years ago that it would come to this. when he stood at that great precipice, that moment in time when he had to make a decision. a very important decision. his actions when he was alive

ought him to that fateful day- the day of his death. at that precise moment, he had been offered a choice. he was given the chance to return to the living world as a form of redemption. but, he was not what one would call alive.

silas was a sentinel- not an angel. they weren't even close to being angels. his kind were given a chance to undo their actions from when they were alive by assisting those in need. in short, to be the good guys. silas's lip curled up as his gaze remained on the sky. he was never the good guy. the sentinels were always wary around him and with good reason. none of them trusted silas very much. he was more of an outcast which was fine with him. the less those do-gooding sentinels were around him the better. silas threw a challenging look up at the sky as

ominous clouds began to blot out the sun. the wind began to crack with such power that a loud shrieking sound roared in pike's ears. the wind knocked him clean off his feet. he grabbed the thick trunk of the nearest tree so he could hang on for dear life. he blocked his eyes as he tried to keep out the little bits of dirt and dust flying around so he could see silas. silas didn't move. his eyes were fixed on the heavens above. as the wind picked up more speed, and the sky grew black, silas's smile was filled with gratification.

at once, the sky opened releasing a river of water down on the earth. lightening split open the clouds to let tiny, slivers of light pierce through. pike cowered in fear as his knees hit the pavement. he crawled to take shelter against the side of a large,

ick building. his mouth opened on a silent scream as he covered his ears to block out the sound of thunder crashing all around him. the current was so strong he felt his feet lift off the ground. pieces of bark pelted him in the face, and he had to duck several times to miss being smashed by large, tree

anches.

"enough," he shouted at silas. of course, silas ignored him. he was no longer smiling, but staring at the chaos erupting around him. lightning struck him, yet he didn't budge an inch. it couldn't do any damage to him, but it did hurt. the rain was pelting silas's skin, leaving red welts in trails along his arms. still he stood.

pike began to giggle. the sound was quiet at first, and then grew louder when he realized what was going on. the cars driving down the road, the handful of people walking down the sidewalk in the early morning hours, were all oblivious to what was happening. none of this was affecting them at all. all they saw were sunny skies and calm

eezes.

the human beings around them were totally unaware of what was going on, or how close they were to mortal danger.

pike staggered to his feet clawing his way down the side of the building until he was a good distance away from silas. his fingers were bleeding from holding on to

oken window frames, rails, jagged nooks and crannies. anything to keep from being hurtled back into the storm. the further away he got, the more things around him settled down.

suddenly, pike began grabbing around his neck, his movements frantic. when his raw fingers closed around the tiny vial that hung on a silver chain, he felt his body sag with relief. he almost forgot about that vial. it was shaped like a clinging vine. his body shook as he thought of what would have happened if it had

oken, knowing the answer was death. he looked inside the vial at the precious, black liquid that was now almost gone. because of his encounter with silas and the storm, he forgot that his time on this side was limited. he needed to cross back over before the container emptied.

when the liquid ran out, he would die. pike was a seeker, and this was the only thing that allowed pike's kind to cross over to the side of the living. mistress was going to want answers, pike thought. pike found his way to a dank alleyway. he took the vine, shaped bottle, and crushed it in his hand. even though it looked like glass, it dissolved into black powder. pike's form began to fade; the color of his hair and skin turning to soot. his eye sockets blackened out. he became a gray, translucent shape; with form, but without form. wind shot through his being, and then faded into nothingness. the black powder on the ground was the only sign that anyone had been there. after a moment, worms began to crawl out of the black powder, one after the other, until it too was gone.

six

pike knew he was getting close. the closer he got to her, the speed at which human emotions began to fade increased. it felt like shedding layers of skin; painful at first. that was the first feeling to go…pain. but it was not one pike missed. going back home was always painful, but it wouldn't last. the next feelings were regret, sadness, loneliness, wistfulness, hunger. the base emotions that the living felt which reminded them that they were alive. even if those emotions were uncomfortable or unwanted, it meant feeling. sadness, loneliness and regret might be hurtful, but the lingering remnants of love were still able to be felt. the emotions contained no viciousness, and that was the difference. the next emotions to go were the ones pike missed the most. joy, happiness, gratefulness, forgiveness, acceptance, loyalty, fullness. it was more difficult to let go of these feelings, which was why they always faded slower. pike was still hurtling down through noxious gas. then, the only "feelings" his kind experienced came rushing back with stinging a

uptness. the main feeling was hollow- nothing moved him. it was a vacant feeling. he could have been gazing at the most magnificent sunset, a glorious rainbow streaking across the sky, snowcapped mountains, a mother holding her newborn, and he might as well have been looking at a blank wall. however, there were other emotions that tinged the vacant feeling. malice and a terrible yearning. these feelings did not come from hearts that could love, but from those that had no heart.

this place, his home, was known as the idyll. food could be remembered, but not how it tasted. laughter could be remembered but not felt. friendship could be remembered, but there was no loyalty here. love and sympathy were nonexistent in the idyll. all the wonderful, miserable feelings of being alive could be remembered, but only for

ief moments. pike felt the numbness begin to set in. along with it, the familiar, malevolent feelings. they grew in strength until they consumed him.

the rushing sensation stopped as pike hit the ground. the first thing that came into his view was the withered

anch of a tree. one rotted leaf fell; floating in the still air, then was whisked out of his sight. long

anches caught at pike's cheek as he rose to his feet. he didn't feel it.

in an instant, rain poured down on pike's head. here in the idyll, the weather changed minute by minute: either extreme wind, rain, or snow. pike had no solid form. no one here did, so he didn't feel either. what pike did feel was towards the wind. it whispered to them, taunted them with things long gone. those dwelling in the idyll had short bursts of memory, slight visions of their previous lives. the visions didn't last long enough for them to be pieced together.

through the rain came a gust of wind that materialized into a face. then came the taunting voice.

"hurry up pike, you know she is waiting for you. you are always at her beck and call, but she cares nothing for you. you know that don't you?" the whisper continued. "just like you care nothing for her."

silas's voiced carried on the wind. "do you remember her pike? do you remember yuri? here, i'll help you. same old story. guy wants girl; guy gets girl. then guy no longer wants the girl. can you see her face," the voice trailed off.

yuri. pike struggled to think of who that was. but-nothing. and he didn't care. the voice was right about one thing. mistress was waiting.

seven

genesis burrowed into the soft comforter on her bed. it felt so good to lie down and just relax. her mind was still in turmoil about thierry. he was her

other. the only family she had apparently. she couldn't understand his reluctance to clear things up for her. it seemed he wanted to keep her in the dark about her life. she pictured him in her mind. genesis didn't think she resembled him at all. why wasn't he at the hospital? why didn't he show up when i was hurt? life was off kilter to her. the buildings she passed to get here were so large. the roads and the automobiles. they moved with such speed, and neither of the ones she saw looked alike. she tried, but couldn't quite see herself in one.

despite the stress of the day, genesis felt her eyelids begin to drift shut. the pitter patter of the rain against the windows was soothing. her eyes were getting heavy. she was having trouble making out the patterns creeping up along the burgundy walls. in the candle light, they looked like snakes.

she was puzzled about this place. when she confronted thierry with the photograph, she never had a clue they were related. she was in shock from the information. it wasn't just because of them being

other and sister. there was more to it than that. relief. she felt such relief. to know that she wasn't alone in the world. that someone knew all the answers to all the questions she had. then, another feeling followed. only this feeling smarted. a feeling so alive she could almost reach out and caress the beloved letters of its name. hope. when she first woke up in the hospital, all she wanted was answers. now, she had the person who had them. all genesis wanted to do was bask in the wonderful emotion filling her. hope. a phrase popped into genesis's mind. hope is the last one to die. she'd heard that before, but didn't know where.

as her mind was still trying to make sense of things, her eyes got heavier. the sound of the raindrops lulled her into feeling safe. she drifted off to sleep.

in a blink, genesis's head thrashed to one side. still sleeping, the images that were foggy and blurred became clear. red. the red was so

ight. it was moving; swaying from side to side. as the image became bigger, genesis saw that it was hair. long, red hair. genesis was in what looked like a carriage or something similar. she was sitting next to a girl. her hair was red. genesis couldn't see the girl's face. there was a lovely locket around the girl's neck. she reached up to touch it. something about the action taunted genesis. genesis leaned over to shout at her. still, the girl would not turn. then, in slow motion, the girl began to turn her way. her red hair was twisting in the

eeze. slowly …so slowly.

"genesis, wake up!" genesis's eyes flew open. thierry was

eathing hard.

"you were screaming, genesis. i could hear you all the way downstairs. you must have been having a nightmare. are you alright?"

genesis was shaking hard, and so was thierry.

thierry gave her a little shake. "well, are you going tell me or not? what was it?"

genesis couldn't deny that she was a little disturbed. but, when she thought about the dream, she didn't understand why she was so upset. it was just a carriage, and it was just a girl.

"honestly, i don't know," genesis gave an embarrassed laugh. "it was nothing. just a girl riding with me in a carriage. i don't know why i got so upset. i'm sorry if i scared you."

thierry dropped his arms from genesis's shoulders.

"did she say anything to you?"

genesis looked at thierry. "why would you ask me something like that? it was a dream. just a dream, thierry. it wasn't real. it's nothing to get worried about."

"is that so?" thierry sounded skeptical. "screaming usually implies there is something to worry about. tell me the truth genesis. don't lie."

"lie to you? what reason would i have to lie to you about a dream?"

genesis's mouth thinned. "now listen, just because you are my

other doesn't mean you can talk to me any way you like. you may remember me, i don't remember you. and speaking of being my

other, you still have a lot of questions to answer. now would be a great time to start."

thierry continued to stand there with his arms folded across his chest.

"well,

other," her snide attitude had no impact on him at all. "do tell. you are the only link i have to my memory. are you going to keep me waiting? i want to know right now what is going on. you talk to me about lying, but what about you? there are things you are obviously not telling me. why! what is it that you don't want me to know, thierry?"

by now, he was heading for the door. it infuriated genesis.

"why weren't you there for me!" her shout echoed off the walls.

thierry stopped with his hand on the doorknob. he didn't turn around.

"i woke up all alone, thierry. you are my

other! you should have been there! and now, nothing makes sense to me at all. i feel at odds with everything about my life. just explain it to me. give me something. don't you think you owe me that!"

thierry still hadn't moved. when he spoke, it wasn't to address her need for information.

"if you remember anything more, tell me."

genesis flopped back onto the pillows. tears stung her eyes. but, she would not let him see her cry. "i told you; it was just some girl. i must have been screaming because i was yelling at her in the dream. i don't know what i said, but i have the feeling it was her name. at least, that's the impression i got."

"do you know the name you called her?"

"no, i don't know." genesis shook her head and put her hand up to her forehead. she froze before she raised her head. "you do, don't you? you know the name i called her."

he said nothing as he closed the door behind him.

genesis added another question to the hundreds still unanswered.

who was the girl with the red hair?

eight

thierry needed to talk to mae. his steps were unhurried. the wooden floors of the house creaked in protest at the unwanted pressure. he rubbed the back of his neck. he could hear the sound of queen blasting from a room at the end of the hall. he knocked on mae's door and was greeted with a loud "whaaaaat." he opened mae's door then grimaced as the blaring music hurt his ears. mae had posters of various artists that spanned over decades. some, she even met in person. or at least, that's what she said.

he pointed towards the record player. "turn it down now, mae."

mae looked up from her magazine. then her eyes rolled up as she rolled over to turn the record off. she flipped back over to give thierry a dead pan stare. she jabbed a finger towards the record player. "that is queen, my friend. show some respect."

"mae, i see you still have your penchant for record players. you know, technology has improved over the years. your age is showing."

she snorted, and went to flip back on the record ignoring thierry.

"genesis saw her, mae, in a dream," thierry said.

mae's head jerked around. she leapt up onto her knees on the bed. she

ought her hands up to her mouth as if she were searching for something to say. when thierry still hadn't responded, she shouted, "thierry!"

"no, she didn't remember much. but you know what this means, mae. she will start remembering soon, much sooner than i thought. i don't trust him, mae. silas is unpredictable. i know he said this was part of the process. he said she would have to piece her memories together. i know, mae, i know when she does genesis will admit all things she's done. she'll

accept what she was, and she'll want to change. we'll have her back. the genesis we love. although, i'm starting to question if we really know why silas

ought her back."

"i know you two have your issues, thierry. but silas wouldn't lie to us. why would he? i realize there is no love lost between the two of you. i mean, he's the reason you're here to begin with," mae sighed lifting her arm over her head to tap the back of her fingers against the wall behind her headboard.

for the first time since coming in the room, thierry displayed emotion. he clenched his fist as he took a step forward.

mae's gaze never wavered. all the while her knuckles continued their light tapping on the wall.

"be careful, thierry," her warning was gentle. there was no condemnation in her voice. her eyes were focused on the side of thierry's face. "it's starting to glow."

thierry quit advancing while he fingered the side of his neck and face. his expression returned to normal. the only telltale sign he gave that mae's remark bothered him was when he closed his eyes for a split second.

"thank you, mae."

mae rolled off the bed to stand in front of thierry. mae was so tiny that the top of her head just reached his shoulder. she reached out to touch his cheek. she turned to walk over to the two glass doors in her bedroom. she opened them walking into the night air. the smell of rain still permeated the air around the cemetery.

thierry went to stand behind mae. "my mind keeps telling me we have her back. it keeps telling me that, but," he paused.

"but what," mae prompted.

"but are we going to regret it?"

they both stood there staring out into the night while raindrops fell down on the rough gravestones disappearing into the ground below.

nine

such a delicious smell, genesis thought as she woke. she found herself focusing on the candles that were still glowing, and the heavy black curtains overlaid with lace. not a glimmer of light made its way into the room. genesis felt her mouth start to water. what is that amazing smell?

genesis raised her arms high over her head then swung her legs over the side of the bed. her mouth turned down because she was still wearing the hospital gown from yesterday. she noticed a dresser in the corner. she went over and opened one of the drawers. she reached in to take out the only garment she saw. it was a long dress; plain in fashion. it had long sleeves and was fitted in the bodice. the skirt hung all the way to her ankles. she shook the dress out. she coughed from the cloud of dust. she thought about how mae dressed. mae wore a much shorter skirt, and her sleeves were short. she thought about thierry too. he wore loose, fitting, black pants with a black shirt.

she glanced down at the dress in her hand. it seemed very different from how the other two dressed. it looked like it might be a tad uncomfortable. oh well. anything is better than wearing this thing again.

the material clung to her skin. it was a struggle to button the tiny buttons. after some time, she got the dress on. she walked over to the large, oval mirror in her room peering at her reflection. genesis saw a stranger. her black hair hung in matted clumps down her back. her skin was pale, and that accentuated her black eyes. she avoided looking at the dreadful scar on her face.

in her mind, she saw the red flowers mae wore in her hair. she decided she wanted to wear them. maybe they would make her feel better about this dress.

an idea came to genesis. with a smile, she went out into the hallway. there were many doors, so she wasn't sure which one was mae's room. until she saw the sign hanging on the outside. genesis put her ear to the door before she opened it. she listened, but she heard no noise. she opened the door and grinned.

this girl loves pink, was the first impression she had. pink was everywhere. there was such color in mae's room. large pieces of paper hung on her walls, but they didn't look like paintings. they looked like paper with drawings completed by an artist who had amazing skill. these pieces of paper had names genesis didn't recognize written across the bottom. genesis touched one of the letters. a formation took place in her mind. she knew what this was. if she could just think of its name. the letters pieced themselves together, and a word came to her…poster. she was certain that's what it was called. she touched the smaller one hanging next to it. it was a photograph. yes, genesis knew what a photograph was. she turned to survey the rest of room.

mae's bed was small. true, mae was a tiny person, but this bed didn't appear to have enough room for mae to move comfortably. beads hung from the ceiling. there were lamps arranged all over the room. genesis noted the fact that the lamps were all different. some had simple structures, while others were more intricate in detail. genesis preferred the lamp with just a candle as its centerpiece. genesis went in further. mae had a narrow dressing table crammed with boxes. just like the lamps, the boxes varied as well. genesis ran her hand over each one. each box had a different texture. a few were made of satin, and a few were made of wood. others were made of a material genesis couldn't place. some had intricate patterns drawn on them while others were plain- lacking character. genesis went to open one. it was locked. she tried the next, and it was locked too. she picked one up expecting it to be empty. however, she could hear items moving inside the closed space. why would mae have this many boxes locked if items were inside. each one- locked. genesis examined the box. she realized the boxes were not locked. they were welded shut. every single one was welded shut. for an unknown reason, this unsettled genesis. it unsettled her because it wasn't as if mae didn't want someone in her things: it was as if mae was trying to keep herself out too. why?

genesis turned her back on the array of boxes, and inspected the rest of mae's room. it was shiny. the girl definitely liked shine. genesis felt it beneath her foot before she saw it. she lifted her foot off the shaggy carpet. she had stepped on a coin. genesis saw that there were coins dumped all over the carpet. her eyes followed the trail. they were everywhere. coins with contrasting colors and shapes. genesis went to pick up one of the coins. it was stuck. it was

actually stuck somehow to the carpet. she bent down, and ran her hands over the mass of coins on the floor. none of them moved either. why would mae throw coins all over her floor? genesis withdrew her hands. she didn't want to touch them anymore.

mae's taste in decorating was eccentric to say the least. genesis saw she owned very few personal items. her wardrobe was minimal. genesis found only three outfits hanging in the closet. and the bad news for genesis was, mae had only one other pair of flowers. pink. figures, genesis gave a slight huff.

since she couldn't find any red flowers, genesis decided to leave. something on mae's bed caught her eye. it was a very small photograph, so small she could hold it one hand. genesis found herself gazing at a lovely asian women. she resembled mae. her face was radiant as she smiled. genesis found her own lips curving in response to that smile. she wore her hair in the same bun as mae. genesis traced the contours of the woman's face. and just who might you be? genesis tossed the photograph back onto the bed. she didn't like mae's room. she gave herself a mental shake. so, the room is strange. nothing to be concerned about, just a strange room and a strange girl, she comforted herself with the assertion as she left the room knowing she did not ever want to enter it again.

she shut the door, and an aroma wafted from downstairs. a sweet smell. her stomach rumbled, and she followed the scent. mae's room forgotten.

she hurried down the staircase. as usual, there was no light, just the luminance of the burning candles. the living room was empty, but she heard movement coming from behind a door to her left. she pushed it open.

there was mae. she was sitting at a long table in the center of the room. it was the kitchen, and it was large. the floor had black and white tiles, a large sunken sink with what looked like a silver hose attached to it. the cabinets were white, the paint was chipped, and a black cloth covered the windows. the kitchen had the same look as the rest of the house…worn.

but like so many things that become worn, if one looks long enough the faded remains disappear so the beauty of what once was becomes visible.

genesis focused on what mae was doing. she was stuffing something into her mouth as fast as she could. white powder covered her lips. she saw genesis, and patted the table opposite her. genesis sat down eyeing the tray with the delicious smelling food.

"i knew this would get you up. i made your favorite, gen…apple pastries. i know how you love them. here, they're still hot." mae pushed the plate towards genesis.

genesis scooped some of the powder onto her finger first. she

ought it to her mouth to taste. delicious. she picked one up, and sunk her teeth into the hot, sugary concoction. she ate one after another. they were addicting.

she forgot about mae's presence until she heard her chuckle.

"sorry, these are wonderful. thank you, mae."

genesis went to get another while mae linked her hands resting them on the table. genesis could tell mae was holding herself back.

"eat some more. there are a lot left."

mae eyed the plate, but didn't touch it. "no thanks, i've had enough."

genesis gave her a pointed look. "it doesn't look like you've had enough, mae. drooling usually means you haven't had enough. don't tell me you're worried about your figure," genesis teased.

still, mae didn't move. genesis picked up a pastry waving in front of mae's face.

"come on, mae. you know you want one. don't make me eat alone. have another."

"genesis, i said no. leave it alone."

"mae, you are being silly. why did you make so many if…?"

mae blurted out, "i have to be careful, alright. i have to watch…i have to be careful."

genesis was surprised by mae's outburst. "but you want another one. you made more than three dozen, so have one. i don't see the problem."

"so, what does that mean genesis? because i want it, i should take it?"

"do what you want, mae. it's more for me," genesis popped another in her mouth.

a couple of tense minutes went by with neither of them saying anything. genesis glanced up. mae was frozen with a horrified look on her face. if possible, she was even paler than before. mae was shaking her head back and forth as if she couldn't believe her eyes. she was getting to her feet at the same time. genesis continued to chew as she watched her.

mae pointed a finger that wasn't quite steady towards genesis's dress. she murmured, "genesis, what are you wearing?"

genesis swallowed. "i am assuming i'm wearing my dress. it was in my room." her forehead raised as she said to herself, "i must not like to show much skin."

mae was still shaking her head back and forth. but now, her hand came up to cover her mouth.

"it's my fault. i was supposed to lay out clothes for you. i forgot. when you walked in, i was so focused on eating i didn't notice you. see! i told you i have to be careful!" she shouted.

genesis' head went back at the force of mae's statement. her eyes ran up and down mae's clothes. there was a striking contrast in the way they were dressed, but she didn't know why mae would make such a fuss.

"hurry, get up. get up now before he sees. he'll be upset because i forgot." mae was grabbing genesis by the arm yanking her up at the same time. they both fell through the door in their haste.

thierry stood like he was carved from marble. mae rushed forward towards him.

"thierry, i'm so sorry. i forgot. it was my responsibility and i forgot. she found it in the dresser. i could have sworn i moved it."

genesis began to move herself. she was eyeing the two of them. her steps were measured as she moved to where they were standing. genesis was confused. she looked at thierry who was dressed in black as usual. but again, the clothing differed compared to genesis's clothing. he was wearing loose fitting black pants, and the same black shirt. genesis could make out a shiny object. a belt buckle. yes, she was positive that was its name.

thierry still stared. then, he strode forward yanking genesis into his arms. gripping her to him tightly. she was stunned at his behavior. with hesitation, she put her arm up loosely around him to pat his back. just like that, he let go.

still looking at genesis, he spoke to mae.

"get her the clothes, and throw this out."

it surprised genesis to see that mae turned to do his bidding without a smart remark. genesis put up a hand. "wait just a minute. is anyone going to explain what is going on here?"

when neither of them spoke, genesis felt her patience coming to an end. she was getting very tired of this secrecy.

"listen, enough is enough. what is going on here! what is the issue with my clothes? anyone?" she asked.

she turned to thierry. "no answer,

other."

she went at mae next. "nor from you, best friend," she drawled out. "i seem to recall you were wearing that same ensemble yesterday. did you by chance take my clothes, and replace them with this dress. did you want them for yourself? did you really forget, mae?" genesis felt driven to goad her.

the air in the room shifted, and strands of hair began to weave out of mae's immaculate bun; unseen fingers releasing the strands from their confinement. genesis couldn't stop looking at her- then she heard it.

it was subtle. at first, genesis couldn't quite place the sound. then, the sound became clearer. the blood in her veins turned to ice. it was hissing, and she knew it was a snake. genesis was terrified of snakes. her head snapped one way, and then the other. she was panicked as her eyes searched the room to locate the direction of the sound. she was backing up unaware that she was doing it. she turned to run from the room when thierry spoke.

"mae, stop it now!"

only the crackling of firewood could be heard in the otherwise silent room. genesis placed a trembling hand to her chest. her heart rate returned to normal. she could have convinced herself that she'd just hallucinated, although something within her knew better. there was something off about mae and thierry, and genesis was starting to suspect she was no different.

"there is something very wrong here. i feel it. don't you think i feel it! i want you to listen and listen well. if you two won't tell me what is going on here, i promise i will find someone who will." she turned towards the staircase.

"genesis, wait," thierry said. "i know we acted strange about your dress. it's just that," he considered his words. "it's just that you reminded me of someone dressed like that. the likeness is remarkable. i wasn't expecting it is all."

"this dress reminded you of someone?"

"yes, i didn't know her at all. it was her photograph. she used to live in this house- years ago. i believe that dress you are wearing was hers. it looks exactly like the one she had on in the photograph. it caught me off guard. that's all. "

"may i see the photograph?" genesis asked.

"it's gone. we cleared the previous owner's belongings out a while ago. that went out as well. as far as the dress goes, it must have been overlooked. we still find some things stashed around the house. "

this didn't make sense to genesis. "but you were so upset. so was mae. why would you be upset about a girl in a photograph that you didn't know?"

thierry glanced up over the fireplace where an outline still lingered. it was a large, rectangular shape. the exact size of a frame. genesis knew that was where it was hung. still

staring at the spot, thierry answered. "you want the truth, genesis. she could have been your twin: you two look identical. i admit i became attached to it."

genesis laughed. "why would you become attached to it? i'm your sister. i'm sure we saw each other regularly. you would have no reason to stare at that," she said, referencing the space over the fireplace.

thierry went over to the fireplace. he put his arm up on the mantle and leaned into it. he was

acing himself. when he spoke, genesis understood why.

"you left, genesis. you and i haven't seen each other in a long time. mae hasn't seen you either."

this was news to genesis. she had left? why? why would she leave her

other and mae? granted she couldn't remember them, but she could see they cared for her. they were the only ones here now when she had no one else. more to the point, where else did she go?

"i left? where did i go? did we have some sort of disagreement? and if i wasn't here, that means other people must know me. i must have a life out there with people who know me." she balled her fists in frustration. "tell me," she yelled.

thierry's head hung down. it was mae who finally came forward.

"genesis, listen to me. i know there are things going on that you don't understand. if i were in your shoes, i would feel the exact same way. i would be just as frustrated as you are and just as angry. please believe me when i tell you this. we would never do anything to harm you. anything that we do is for your own good. i know that doesn't make sense right now. trust us, please."

"trust you," genesis shouted. "i don't even know you!"

mae was unfazed. "i realize that, gen. and i am going to tell you something that is going to make you even more upset. but, i think you have the right to know."

thierry turned around. "mae, be quiet."

mae sliced her hand through the air cutting him off. "no, thierry, she has a right to know this. i'm going to tell her." mae took a deep

eath. "the thing is, gen…we can't tell you. it's the rule."

no movement from anyone. mae was looking at genesis as if she was afraid she was going to throw herself out the window. thierry was looking at mae in seething silence. and genesis-genesis was focused on one word. rule. it was the rule.

genesis leaned forward. "it's the rule. is that what you said, mae? are you crazy? you can tell me. is that bun pulled back a little too tight? is it cutting off the blood flow to your

ain? what do you mean "it's the rule?" whose rule?"

"since you've been through a lot, gen, i'm going to ignore those comments. but to answer the question, it's not our rule. it's out of our hands. we've been told, and we have no choice but to listen."

genesis reached up clutching at her hair like she wanted to rip it from the roots. "have you all lost your minds! you've been told not to tell me! is that it? who told you not to tell me?" angry tears welled up in her eyes, but she blinked them away. she would not let them see her cry.

thierry faced her. "i'm going to make this clear for you, genesis. we can't tell you. you have to remember. and when you do, and i promise you will, this will all make sense. do you understand?"

genesis didn't understand. but, she knew one thing with certainty. she was leaving this house tomorrow. someone…somewhere out there had answers. she was going to find them. it was useless with these two.

without another word, she turned to make her way up the staircase. her mind was made up. she was finished here. and she knew one other thing with absolute conviction. thierry lied. the photograph missing from the wall was of her.

ten

it was cold. he pulled his long coat closer to keep in the warmth. the black gloves helped protect his fingers from the biting chill. he moved with a purpose. there was a place up ahead where university students liked to gather, and unwind after a long afternoon of lectures. he dodged people walking down the street. occasionally, he would bump into someone not paying attention. a couple of times, he almost fell because of the wet pavement. he stifled a muttered oath as a group walked towards him. they were laughing, and they were loud. one of them was tossing a ball in the air. it was hard to tell what kind of ball it was because it was so dirty. the kid was looking sideways at his friends, not paying attention. thierry went to move around them, when the one with the ball jogged back a little to make a pass to his friend who was wearing a baseball cap backwards. thierry couldn't side step him fast enough, and they crashed together. the one who threw the tattered ball staggered before falling to one knee. thierry reached out a hand to help him up, and it was knocked to the side with a closed fist.

"man, wanna watch where you're goin?" the kid said as he stood up, and stepped closer to thierry. thierry found it a little amusing that he thought of him as a "kid". they looked the same in age, but thierry had stopped being a kid a long time ago.

thierry held up both arms bent at the elbows, palms open wide. it was a gesture meant to soothe. it didn't have that effect.

"i'm talking to you." he was so close that thierry could see the vicious scar over his eye, and the one that split open his lip. "you're just gonna knock someone down and not say anything?" it came out as a question, but it was more of a challenge.

thierry spoke without a trace of emotion. "actually, it was the other way around. but, that's alright. we'll just call it even." he took a step backwards.

by now, the kid's face was getting red. his friends were calling him to go; impatient to have to wait.

ezra. the kid's name was ezra. one of them grabbed him by the shoulder, but ezra shrugged it off with a jerk.

"even," his tone was incredulous. "we're not even till you tell me what i wanna hear! but if you don't wanna say it, we can settle the score another way. " his pupils were dilated, and he was clenching and unclenching his fists.

thierry gestured to the scar above his eye. "that looks pretty bad. how did you get it?"

"do you wanna find out?"

thierry refused to rise to the bait because he was curious about something. so he asked him a question. "are you sorry?"

ezra blinked. he wasn't expecting that. when he realized he showed that second of weakness, it made him angrier.

thierry saw him reach into one of the front pockets of his sweatshirt. thierry knew what he was reaching for without even seeing it. he could feel the cold metal of the blade as if he held it in his own hand.

"sorry for what?" ezra sneered at thierry. "what do you think i should be sorry about? do you think you know me now? i outta teach you a lesson. first, you almost knock me down, and now with the stupid questions." he looked back at his friends who were snickering. he laughed and turned back to thierry.

with a smile that didn't reach his eyes he answered thierry. "no. i'm not sorry."

"you hurt people don't you?"

that wiped the smile off his face. a nerve began to tick along his jaw. he stepped so close to thierry that they were toe to toe. only thierry could hear his response.

"so what if i do. maybe they deserve it."

"aren't you ever worried? i'm sure you've heard the saying what goes around comes around, haven't you? aren't you worried about what will happen when it's your turn?"

thierry knew the kid, ezra, was thrown off guard. he didn't know what to make of thierry.

thierry recognized him. he knew the signs so well. wrath. it was deadly. it made the sane do the insane. it ripped things apart. it could kill. thierry was proof of that which was why he pitied him.

more than that, he wanted to help him. he knew rationalizing wasn't going to work. it never did. there was only one thing to do.

thierry moved his eyes to the ball. in the blink of an eye it was torn from the kid wearing the baseball cap to thierry's hand. it snapped into his. everyone in the group shouted in fear, and began to look at each other in confusion. thierry knew their logical mind was trying to come to terms with what just happened.

the words thierry spoke were only heard by ezra. "let me try to help you understand this a little better. once, there was a man who was married to a very rich woman. the man decided he wanted all that wealth to himself. so, he came up with a plan. see, his wife was having problems with her memory. so, the man decided to make his wife think she was going crazy. his wife collected cat figurines. she loved them. she displayed them all over the house. every night, the man would take one of the figurines, and hide it way up on a shelf in the closet down in the basement. his wife was a small woman, and would never be able to reach that high. the wife would realize the figurine was missing and look for it. the husband would of course deny that he had seen the figurines. therefore, the wife began to think she was losing her mind. the husband would taunt her about her memory. after a while, there were several figurines hidden on that shelf. they were small, but heavy. one night, the husband went to put up the last figurine, his wife's favorite, when the shelf gave way under all that pressure. the figurines crashed on the husband's head and knocked him unconscious." thierry's lip turned up at the corner. "sadly, when he fell he

oke his neck. understand?"

thierry knew ezra thought he was nuts. he saw it in his face.

"let me put this another way. there is a price you pay for your actions. they don't just go away. they live and

eathe. be sure it's a price you want to pay."

with a flick of his wrist, thierry chucked the ball at ezra. he took his eyes off thierry for a second to catch the ball. when he looked back up, all he saw was his own reflection in the window of the yellow cab parked on the side of the road.

twenty minutes later, ezra was still standing in the same spot clutching the ball in his hand. for some strange reason, he wanted to adopt a cat.

eleven

farris town had no shortage of pubs. the ones lining the street were already crowded even though it was only in the middle of the afternoon. a person passing by could hear laughter, the lively conversation, and the noise of the television with the latest sports game prompting cheers for the scoring team. this particular pub could get a little rowdy at times. plenty of action for everyone. thierry knew that's where he would find him. he loved to come to these kinds of places. it was his element. thierry held open the door for a couple as they left the pub, and stepped inside. the place was heated well, and thierry took off his gloves to rub his hands together. he was starting to feel his fingers again.

his attention was caught by a loud shout over at a table full of college students. they were engrossed in a game on the television. that's when he saw him. he was sitting at a table right in the middle of the room. silas was never one to sit in the corner. as usual, silas was wearing a plain, white shirt. no patterns or colors to draw any attention. he wasn't looking at thierry, but thierry knew he was well aware of his presence. he was lounging back in one of the plastic chairs casually cracking the peanut shell he was holding in his hand. all the while, a knowing smile hovered over his mouth. silas knew there was not one person in that place who was not aware of him. the girls kept sneaking glances over at him, and their boyfriends were looking at the girls wondering why they continued to steal gazes at the strange boy sitting alone. thierry knew this amused him. even though he liked the attention, silas had no interest in any of them.

he made his way over to his table. girls were hovering over their tables, whispering, hoping to catch silas's attention. silas never looked at them. he was good at pushing the boundaries, but he never stepped over them. although with time, he was getting closer and closer.

still looking at the shell in his hand, he spoke. "and to what do i owe this honor?"

thierry pulled out the chair opposite of silas and sat down. he put his forearm on the table, fixing silas with a stare. "you know why i'm here. don't play games with me, silas."

"i don't know what you're talking about, thierry. don't tell me i've

oken some rule in your opinion again? are you going to lecture me now?" he threw down the peanut shell with exaggeration. "i came here for some fun, not to sit and listen to you. by the looks of it, you could use a little fun, old friend."

thierry was drawing female attention himself. souls were drawn to them. even though he, and silas for that matter, looked so different from them-otherworldly. yet, the living didn't see it. didn't see the strangeness of their appearance or how it contrasted from theirs. they only saw the appeal. it was that way for all sentinels. to them, the attention of the living wasn't important. except for silas- he loved it. that was why places like this were so dangerous to him. he was already pushing it. being here, sitting like this, was trouble for him.

thierry was just about to speak when a girl walked up to the table. silas didn't acknowledge her, just picked up another peanut out of the tin.

"my friends and i were wondering if you want to come watch the game with us. we're sitting right over there," she gestured behind her. "that's our school playing. we go to the university here." she paused to look back at her friends, her actions relaying her awkwardness. "we just ordered some food. after we eat some of us might go see a movie. so, do you want to come with us?"

silas didn't speak nor did he glance at the girl. he traced the checkered pattern on the table. he let his eyes drift upward to meet thierry's. their gazes locked. still the girl stood there, and still silas didn't glance her way. thierry knew what silas wanted to do. the fact that he hadn't gave thierry some hope. his eyes were drawn to the side of silas's neck and face.

"silas, it's glowing," he warned.

still ignoring the hovering girl, he balled his fist up tapping the table top in a repeated motion. he just grinned. "don't tell me you're worried about me all of a sudden, thierry? that would require emotion." his face lit up as if a sudden thought came to him. "ah, that's right. there is one emotion you know very well. isn't that right, thierry? i should know after all."

"silas, don't. not now. we have something to discuss you and me."

silas nodded with a gleam in his eyes. he lifted his hand and gave a small wave.

the girl started as if she had been daydreaming.

"no thanks," silas said. he sounded bored.

the girl said something under her

eath as she went back to her table.

thierry studied silas. he asked, "why do you come here. why do you do this to yourself?"

"what, dare to mingle with them? isn't that what we are supposed to do? isn't that what we're here for? what am i doing that's so wrong?"

"that's the reason i'm here, silas. you know what i'm talking about."

silas rubbed his chin with the flat of his hand pretending to think hard. "give me just a minute, thierry. you obviously think i'm up to no good, and i really want to assist you with

whatever problem you might have. if you would give me some kind of a clue, i might be able to help."

"she's back, silas. just like you said she would be. don't pretend to not know who i'm talking about."

"genesis is home! i don't believe it," silas said. "how long has it been now? you just never know what a new day will

ing." silas slapped the table with a light smack. "how is she doing by the way? you will send her my regards. although, she might not be too happy to hear from me come to think of it."

thierry could feel the burn starting. it was building up inside of him. he knew silas was goading him. he took several

eaths to calm down while silas just clasped his hands behind his head. thierry wanted to lunge over the table at him.

"i'm not a fool, silas. you know genesis is home. you were the one who arranged it, but i want to know what happens now? i know you said she has to remember things on her own, but what happens then? i'm going to say it straight; i don't trust you. i don't think you're telling us everything."

"you know i'm not the only one involved in genesis's return. i'm not the one who makes up the rules. he does. yes, i'm talking about the one everyone is so concerned with," silas said.

"don't you dare, silas."

"this is the fun part. you know his rules. she has to remember on her own and all that. am i right?"

"yes."

"but, do you know why?" silas taunted.

"what are you talking about, silas? genesis remembers, she wants forgiveness, and we get her back."

"you really think it's that easy, thierry. all is forgiven that easy? how simple for you and for genesis. nothing in life is that simple."

by now, thierry was standing. it took every ounce of his will power to control himself. he knew the side of his face was glowing. he could see it out of the corner of his eye. he was furious.

"you lied. i knew it."

"i didn't lie, no. i just left out some details that's all."

"why? what can you possibly gain by not telling us the whole truth!"

"this is the fun part, i told you. i dared him."

thierry was sure his hearing failed him. until he saw the smugness radiating from silas.

forming words became difficult. silas was bluffing, he had to be. that was the only explanation. silas was gone, but not that gone.

"wanna bet?" silas asked.

thierry couldn't believe what silas was saying. the words; when they came, tumbled over one another.

"you dared him. silas, are you crazy! why would you do something so insolent?"

it hit thierry then, who silas used to make the dare. he knew his eyes were red. all traces of white were gone.

he roared the accusation. "you made a dare through my sister? with genesis!"

thierry was going to die- again. he was going to commit the sin that caused his human death. he knew where he would be sent. no other sentinel ever committed the sin that took its life or took another life for that matter.

except one.

thierry didn't try to stop the tide of rage coursing through him. he would gladly die for his sister. he failed from saving her from her human life, but he would not fail her now.

"thierry, think this through. you don't have the weapon with you to kill me."

thierry felt blood running from his nose. the part of his mind still functioning told him silas was right, he didn't have the weapon. that didn't mean thierry couldn't

ing him close to death, and then finish him off.

blood was going into thierry's mouth now. it caused him to sputter his condemnation.

"you dared to challenge him that created all things, and damn you, you used genesis!"

silas couldn't meet thierry's eyes. when he did, silas did what thierry thought impossible. silas tried to help him.

"listen to me, thierry. don't give in to the rage because of me. i'm not worth it. your sister still has a chance. her future is not written in stone. calm down."

thierry clung to the frugal words of hope. the red was leaving his eyes. his vision was no longer clouded. if his sister had a chance, he would move heaven and earth to help her.

"sit, please," silas offered.

thierry collapsed into the chair. his legs wouldn't support him anymore.

"why would you challenge him, silas? you can't win."

"you don't understand the nature of our bet."

"help me to understand."

"the man upstairs and i have a difference of opinion."

"what do you mean?"

"let's just say he thinks people can change and i disagree. despite mankind's insidious natures, he believes they are capable of greatness. i know he's wrong. mankind is a mistake. we are a mistake. "

"and for this you used genesis?"

"i used all of us, thierry, don't you get it? it's about all of us. in the coming days, genesis will remember. here is the part that i left out. genesis is going to be tested, and by her being tested all of you will. but, you cannot intervene in any way."

thierry's mark started to glow.

silas held up a hand. "don't get angry at me. those are not my rules, they're his."

"i won't need to intervene. when her memory returns, she'll realize all the things she's done. she'll want forgiveness. she'll be changed, i know it."

silas folded his arms. "are we talking about the same genesis? you know what genesis was. you won't admit it, but i know you do."

"she will change this time."

"that's your love for her talking," silas said.

thierry clenched his hands on top of the table. "you mentioned genesis being tested. what kind of test will it be?"

"not one, but many, and i can't tell" silas replied.

"do you hate her that much, hate us all that much?"

"i don't like any of you, but hate has no part of it."

"what does?"

"i want to prove i'm right."

"silas, that sounds like pride to me."

"no, its confidence."

"is this all of it, silas? or is there more?"

silas lied through his teeth. "no, that's pretty much it."

thierry frowned. "why is he letting you get away with this?"

silas smiled. "he wants to see if i'm right."

"i'm going to ask you one more thing, silas. i want the truth. are you working with them, the seekers?"

"that's one fact i won't divulge right now."

thierry grabbed silas around the throat. "you tell me right now, silas or so help me i will."

silas cut him off. "you'll what, thierry? kill me?" his voice had more impact because of its softness.

thierry fell back. he forgot they were in a public place. it didn't matter. the living were oblivious to what was going on. they continued to shout at the television.

"i'm telling you, silas, before it's too late. you cannot work with them. it is forbidden."

silas held up his hands. "well, no one's stopping me."

"silas, you are a sentinel. your loyalty lies with us. i'm not leaving until you tell me what your involvement is with the seekers."

silas compressed his lips, and shook his head like he felt sorry for him. "thierry, it just looks like you can't get a

eak tonight."

confused, thierry glanced over his shoulder following the direction of silas's eyes. it was ezra, and he was still carrying that stupid ball. ezra was walking up to the girl who had approached silas. one of the other college students sitting at the table pointed over in their direction, and thierry heard ezra curse. he sliced his fist through the air in an angry motion, and then he strode towards thierry and silas. thierry surmised the situation. the girl who went to the university was his girlfriend.

silas grabbed a peanut and tossed it into his mouth.

thierry knew ezra was coming for him. even though it was silas who caught his girlfriend's attention, it was thierry he was after. thierry's mind was working at top speed. he couldn't fight, not in anger. if he did, then it was over for him. thierry knew he had to let ezra come in close proximity to him, without engaging in a physical fight. by the look on his face, thierry wasn't so sure that was an option. thierry stood and watched him approach. ezra didn't say a word, just raised his arm swinging it towards thierry's face.

in a blur of movement, thierry grasped his arm. he stopped it in midair. as soon as he touched him, everything around them became a blur. movements were rewinding. thierry clearly saw the moment when ezra walked into the pub, and the few seconds before when he was

talking to silas. thierry was manipulating time, but he could only do it for so long. while this was happening, ezra's image was fading in front of thierry. his physical body was being propelled back in time. in no more than a few seconds, both ezra and his friends vanished.

thierry felt weak. meddling with time took a serious toll on him. he wouldn't be able to do it again for another day. that was why it was so important to make a wise choice. there were consequences for using their gifts. the weaker a sentinel became after using their ability, and the longer it took for them to reuse it, determined how close they were for their time to be up. sentinels didn't live forever. that was part of the deal. sentinels knew their time was limited. even though using their gifts shortened their life span, they were compelled to help others. it was in their nature. they could resist at times, but eventually the pull was too strong.

a noise to his left

ought thierry back to the present. he glanced over at the table, and saw that silas was gone. without waiting any longer, thierry rushed out of the door before ezra had a chance to come back inside. he had to get to mae. he had to tell her what he discovered.

twelve

silas stood with his shoulder propped against a street sign. he saw thierry rush out of the pub. things were falling right into place. he knew once thierry saw genesis he would come searching for him. it surprised silas how easy it was to provoke thierry. for the most part, he was rigid about control. silas didn't think he would lose it that fast. then again, thierry had always been protective when it came to his sister. silas tried to remember a time when he felt protective towards anyone- felt anything for anyone. yes, he helped people, but that was more out of compulsion than protectiveness. his eyes were dispassionate as he watched life go on around him. he felt nothing, and he wanted to be nothing.

with an a

upt movement, he moved towards the street. the traffic was heavy, but it was still moving at a decent pace. he stepped out into the road. no horns blared because no one saw him. he didn't let them. there was a time when everyone saw him. there was a time when everyone wanted to be him. things were much different now. right at the moment, being invisible suited him just fine.

he stopped in the middle of the street. an suv was coming towards him, and the driver was not paying attention to the speed limit. silas watched with bleak anticipation. he knew what the outcome of this would be. nothing at all. the instant the thought came into his head was the moment the suv made contact with his body. it didn't stir one hair on silas's head. then another car followed and another. silas didn't blink an eye as the cars passed through him. he knew it wouldn't kill him, and he didn't know why he bothered.

in a blur, he went from the road to the sidewalk where empty cars were parked. some of the cars belonged to local business owners in the area, some to the people eating in the restaurant on the corner, and some belonged to people out running errands on an ordinary day. without the usual, casual manner that always accompanied him, he picked the first car up with one hand tossing it into the middle of oncoming traffic. he could hear

akes screeching as cars tried to avoid crashing into one another, and then spinning out of control. the sound of glass

eaking, and the shriek of

oken metal hurt his ears for a second. he picked up another, and threw it in the opposite direction. the car flew through the air, and then hung suspended for a mere moment of time before obliterating the pavement beneath it; bounced up once more and thudded to a stop. people began to scream and run. total panic

oke out. no one could locate the source of the

chaos which only made the fear worse. a human mind would wonder how a car could be lifted up in the middle of the street, and tossed with no visible effort.

as soon as the last car went flying into the air, silas yelled at the top of his voice. "why can't i do it! just do it and get it over with!"

silas was mad, and he was raging at himself. he knew what he had to do to end his existence. he already pushed the boundaries so many times he was sure punishment was coming. it had to come, he was certain. he would not be allowed to be defiant much longer. yet, here he was, and silas had a good idea why. he made a bet, and he was being taken to task. fine, if that was the way he wanted it, so be it.

silas was standing with his back pressed against the side of a building. people were running all around him, but he didn't care. his eyes were closed. he

ought his fingers up, and dug them into the sides of his head. he was weary, so weary. he was tired of living like this. he would rather face whatever was in store for him than continue on this way. he took his fist, and punched it through the

ick wall behind him. he was a sentinel for now, that couldn't be helped. but he would be damned if he would help another living soul. he was going to fight that instinct with every fiber of his being. whatever humans had coming their way, they deserved it in his opinion.

he touched the side of his neck. it wasn't glowing. the mark wasn't glowing because what he felt was anger; not the other emotion. silas was vanity. he was pride. they were the same really. silas knew the marks only glowed when a sentinel was close to committing that one specific sin: the sin that caused their death while they were still alive. the tattoos represented that sin, and only sentinels could see them. it was a reminder. a reminder of who and what they were when they were alive.

through half closed lids, he looked at the destruction he caused. traffic had come to a standstill, and the sound of sirens could be heard in the distance. his eyes moved over the people who were still outside. some of them were crying, some shouting as they banged on the locked doors of the shops that lined the street, mothers who were frantic with the need to get their children to safety, and some who stood still looking around with a dazed expression. silas knew what scared them the most. even if they didn't acknowledge it out loud or otherwise- he knew. it wasn't the damage the cars caused- not precisely. what terrified them the most was the one question they would never ask. what just picked two cars up, and threw them into the air?

silas knew they would come up with some rational answer to explain it away. they deserve everything they get, he thought. pathetic and weak.

silas pushed himself away from the building when he heard a noise. it was wailing. he turned his head to scan the road. tow trucks were beginning to clear away the cars that remained in the street. workers were there picking up pieces of metal and

oken glass. still the wailing continued. he headed in the direction of the sound. his steps were reluctant. when he got to the end of the end of the sidewalk, he saw her. a little girl. she was probably around eight or nine years old. she was so still. her eyes were wide open. the yellow and white, knitted cap she wore was spotted with red. silas knew the red had not been there a few minutes ago- call it instinct. the girl's mother hovered over her making that terrible noise. she was rocking back and forth shaking the girl as she screamed a name. grace. the girl's name was grace.

he moved until he stood over her. her mother didn't see him: no one could see him. he didn't allow them too. he reached his hand out touching the small face. her skin was ice cold, and her lifeless eyes stared up at him. it came out as the softest of sounds- her name. silas called her name.

her chest rose high as she gasped in air. her eyes blinked in rapidly, while she wheezed a little. she

ought her hand up to touch the back of her head and winced. she took her hand away, revealing it to be stained with blood. she turned, the motion small, and then she saw him. her eyes trained on silas. he didn't moved, but instead just stood there, staring back at the small girl. right at that moment, grace's mother lifted her head up realizing her daughter was alive. she began to yell and cry at the same time. she reached out, grabbing grace into her arms as she sobbed into her hair. still, grace stared at silas. even though silas could block his sight from humans, he knew the girl could see him. children always could.

grace's mother was looking her over. she asked her if she was alright. she was touching her face as she gently pulled the cap off of grace's head. her hand covered her mouth when she saw all the blood. she shouted for one of the rescue workers to come over and help. grace's gaze never wavered from silas's.

now is the time, he thought. i can let them see me, let them see i'm the one who saved her. they don't have to know what i am, they won't even know what i am. i can say that the mother was so hysterical that she didn't notice me. she was in shock-yes that sounds perfect. she was in shock. i can blur the images just a bit. not much, but just enough to make the mother think that maybe she was too panicked to see me. the girl herself will tell them i was there. she saw me. they'll be so grateful, so in awe of me.

silas knew that was all it would take to end his pact. pride, vanity, whatever it was called; it was the worst of them. the deadly sins. silas had been alive a long time. he knew the devastation it caused. it caused friendships to end and marriages to fail. people went to their

graves with regrets because of pride. silas himself went to his grave because of it, and began this living nightmare.

then, for some reason, he pictured genesis. he thought about his plan, and his resolve hardened. he wouldn't give in, not yet. he wouldn't give them the satisfaction of seeing him beaten. he still had time for everything to work out just as he wanted.

with that reassurance, silas turned. the little girl was now being laid down on a long, white stretcher. paramedics were busy examining the wound on her head; the wound that should

have killed her. she still looked at him. one of her small hands lifted up to silas. he looked at that hand. he knew what she assumed he was- an angel. with a deliberate movement, silas turned his back on that hand. he strolled away from the scene. not even close.

thirteen

crickets. that was all she could hear in the blinding fog. her legs ached from walking. she was getting tired. she was thankful she wasn't wearing that dress anymore. mae had laid out clothes for genesis. black pants and a black, fitted shirt.

genesis didn't know how long it was since she left the cemetery. it was well before dawn when she set out. she didn't know how much time had passed since then. all she knew was the fog. for some reason, she remembered it well. it gave her a strange sense of comfort. a person could hide in the fog, hide many things. genesis liked that idea, but she was getting tired. she could see nothing in front of her, and tendrils of fear made her

eathing shallow. she didn't remember the route home from the hospital with mae taking this long. then, it seemed like the cemetery was much closer to town. now, it felt like she had been wandering for hours. and those crickets. she covered her ears to drown out the sound. she began to turn in circles. she was no longer sure which way to go. the sound of the crickets was almost too much to handle, but she had to move on. she was determined she would get answers today. she had a life out there somewhere, and she was going to find it.

"are you sure you want to know?" a voice came out of the fog.

genesis let out a loud shriek. she felt her pulse accelerating as a form began to take shape in the mist. it was coming towards her. genesis had to fight with herself not to take a step back. she straightened her spine, and lifted her head as she

aced herself for whatever was coming. that's when she heard the muffled laugh. that made her stiffen even more. that laugh made the hair on her arms stand up.

"you haven't changed a bit, genesis. those prickly defense mechanisms still in place i see. you never were one to back down. one of your greatest charms and biggest faults."

there he was in front of her. it was a young man. she knew immediately he was one of them. like mae and thierry…but not the same. her eyes roamed over the stranger. he made her feel as though she should be on guard. and it wasn't because genesis didn't know him, for deep inside herself she knew she did. without being aware of it, she

oadened her stance.

"you're not by any chance wanting to fight me, genesis? is that any way to greet an old friend? i know you don't remember, so i'll tell you. my name is silas, and i've come to help you."

"is that so?" her voice was flat.

silas began to talk, then a

uptly stopped as he turned his head to listen. he gestured to the air while he wrinkled up his face. "annoying aren't they?" and just like that the noise that had been pounding in genesis's ears stopped.

she gave a sigh of relief at the blessed silence. then her eyes shot back to silas. "how did you do that?"

"what makes you think i did anything?" silas asked with a straight face.

genesis took a step toward him, and silas threw up his arm in defeat.

"alright, yes i stopped them. among my many awesome, mysterious powers i have the gift of making crickets shut up."

genesis felt herself start to grin, and then she suppressed the urge. they both stood sizing each other up for a few seconds. silas had his hands stuffed in his pockets. he was rocking back and forth on his heels.

"they're a warning, you know," he said as he watched her face.

"what do you mean a warning? are you talking about the crickets?"

"that's exactly what i'm talking about."

genesis scoffed. "yeah, right. that makes perfect sense, ah… silas is it? who are they warning, and why am i having this conversation?"

silas continued to rock back and forth. "you think they don't know you've left?"

genesis wanted to look over her shoulder, yet forced herself to resist the urge. "you mean mae and thierry?"

"of course i mean mae and thierry. you're not one of them. you aren't supposed to be this close to the cemetery." he nodded towards the fog. "that's why you can't find your way around, and you'll never find your way back there without one of them...or me. it's not a place for the living."

this time genesis did look over her shoulder. all she saw was the thickening, white air. she had a sick feeling in her stomach that silas was telling the truth. which in turn made genesis even more nervous. she looked down at the ground trying to decide what to do. silas speaking shook her out of her thoughts.

"does any of this seem weird to you?" he asked. "most people would be more than rattled right about now. did you hear what i just said? not a place for the living with no reaction from you. and i'm sure many other strange things have been happening since you woke up in the hospital."

"how did you know about the hospital?"

silas smiled. "you'd be surprised what i know about you, genesis. and unlike the others, i will be happy to enlighten you about some of those things. so, back to my original question i asked you a moment ago. do you really want to know, genesis?"

genesis considered this. when she left the cemetery this morning, all she wanted was answers. someone to make sense of all the things that didn't make sense. now, she wasn't so sure. she had a feeling the answers were only going to make her more upset. so be it.

"yes."

silas held out his hand and said, "let's go."

genesis placed her hand in his. a person she knew nothing about. she suddenly felt immensely alone, a desolate emptiness spreading inside of her. genesis recognized that feeling. inside, she knew life had always been like this. a yearning that was never satisfied. yes, she was afraid of knowing, but she was more afraid of not knowing who she was.

they took no more than a few steps when the air became hushed. there was a whirring sound in her ears. her body shook, although it was minimal. genesis had the impression of speed, but the stillness remained. she saw quick flashes of color that resembled fire except it was

ight in an abnormal way. she shut her eyes for a minute because the colors hurt. the pressure built in her head. before it could become unbearable, everything stopped.

they were on a

idge. it was enormous in size and beautiful as well. there were golden lights surrounding it, so that it shined like a beacon in the darkness. it startled genesis that it was night. she left in the early, morning hours, and now the stars smiled down at her from the covering of the sky. genesis wondered just how long she had wandered in that fog. it must have been hours.

silas went over to lean on the railing, and genesis trailed behind him. there were some cars crossing the

idge to destinations unknown. the commotion caused genesis's hair to whip against her back. she wished mae had given her a coat to wear. she leaned over the railing, and stared down into the water. at this point, genesis didn't know what to say or where to begin.

genesis reached out to finger one of the lights along the railing. it was hot to the touch.

"you realize you're different don't you, genesis." it was a statement.

genesis continued to trace the lights. there was a strange taste in her mouth. it tasted like metal. she knew what the emotion was, and it almost choked her. however, she would not let him see her fear.

"what am i?"

silas turned his head towards her. "there isn't a word for what you are, genesis."

with that statement, an unraveling took place inside her. she knew; even if she hadn't wanted to admit it to herself, she'd known it all along. from the moment she woke up

in the hospital, she sensed there was wrong inside her. it explained why things seemed so alien to her. feelings and objects she couldn't place. people she couldn't remember. she heard the

automobiles behind her, and remembered the feeling she got when she saw one with mae. she knew their name, but the actual sight of one threw her. the unusual reaction to food she seemed to possess. as if she couldn't get enough. everything that made no sense in an instant made perfect sense because of what silas just said. there are no words for what you are.

"i will be as honest as i can with you, genesis. as i'm sure you've heard, there are some things you can't be told outright. but, i am going to tell you what mae and thierry won't… as well as the others."

genesis's eyes moved over his face. "what others? there are more like you?"

"you'll meet them soon enough. now, on to more important matters. there is no easy way to say this so i'll just come right out with it. mae, thierry, myself, and the others…we are not part of the living world. we are sentinels. we are somewhere in between. we have certain gifts you might say. however, using them comes with a price."

"sentinels," genesis repeated as if she were trying out the word. she took in silas's appearance. silas, noticing her regard, explained.

"yes, we have the same coloring. it's part of the deal. we have no identity of our own; this is what we are now. it's a constant reminder of the choice we all made."

"what choice? how did you become this way?"

silas stared out over the water with a

ooding look on his face. "all i can say about that is this, genesis. the things we do in our lifetime, they have consequences."

genesis turned to lean her back against the railing as she mulled this information over.

"am i a sentinel too?"

"no."

"silas, why am i not frightened about what you just told me? if anything, i feel more at peace. why is that? i should be terrified if not unbelieving. but i'm not. i feel comforted. "

"like i said before; you're different."

genesis wanted to know something. "what really caused me to end up in the hospital? mae said the hospital got it wrong. was she right?"

"i don't know what mae told you, but whatever she said wasn't true."

her bewilderment showed. "mae is my best friend, or so she says. thierry is my

other. they showed up for me when no one else did. i can trust them."

"is that so?"

genesis felt compelled to defend them. "yes, that is so. how do i know i can trust you, silas? i don't remember you anymore than i remember them."

"well, that must mean you don't want me to tell you the rest of the answers. i mean, since you don't trust me."

genesis rested her arm against the railing facing him. "you mean there's more?"

"more than you can imagine." he moved in close to genesis so that their faces almost touched.

"be careful, genesis. be very careful of who you trust. you are important. you are the key."

she tilted her head as she rubbed her hands up and down her arms. she was beginning to get cold.

"the key? what are you talking about?"

he grasped her chin in his hand forcing her to hold his gaze. "the sentinels are desperate. they are looking for something, something of immense value. there are others looking as well. a much more sinister group. the sentinels will do anything to prevent them from finding what they seek. they have to find it before the others do."

genesis was riveted on silas's face. "what others?" she whispered.

he let go of her chin. "unfortunately, that i can't tell you."

still she whispered. "and these…others…are they bad?"

"yes, i would put it that way."

"who are they?"

"can't tell you that."

"i still don't understand. what do i have to do with any of this? i don't remember anything at all. and why wouldn't thierry or mae tell me what you just did?"

"the answer is simple, genesis. they have their own agenda where you are concerned. you know what it is everyone wants; what they are searching for. the answer is buried deep inside you. you are the key," he said as if that explained it. "you don't remember for a reason. your memory has been taken from you. you have to remember on your own as i'm sure you've been informed. once you remember, that's when things become interesting. because that is when you'll decide which side you will help."

"why would i help people who are bad?"

"who says you're good, genesis?"

sweat

oke out on genesis's face despite the cold. this is why she feared answers. it was because she already recognized an element within herself. there was an ugliness in her.

she could feel it as surely as she felt the night air on her face. what have i done that i can't remember? again, she asked the question burning in her mind.

"what am i, silas?"

silas took her hand in his. "i told you, genesis. there isn't a word for what you are."

fourteen

mae was pacing back and forth. she paused every few seconds to take a step near the door only to turn around and keep pacing. she stopped to look at thierry who was sitting on the bottom stair reading a book. its cover was creased and worn. evidence that it had been read many times.

mae threw her hands up as she continued to pace. when she couldn't take it any longer she blurted, "you know he's got her. there is no way she could have made it through the fog herself."

she continued to pace as she shook her head. "i knew it, thierry. i'm telling you i knew it by the look on her face last night that she was going to try and leave. i had every intention of getting up early this morning to stop her."

thierry flipped to the next page. "of course you did, mae. i could feel your concern even while your snoring almost shook the house apart."

mae jerked her arm out pointing a finger at him. "did i not try to leave when i heard the warning? i tried to go after her, and you stopped me!"

"of course he stopped you. what else could he do?"

mae jumped when she heard the voice; however, thierry didn't even glance up from his book.

mae moved toward the red chair which had patches of fa

ic missing from around the edges. from her position, all she could see were his legs stretched out in front of him. as she got closer, more of him came into view.

kai, too, wore loose blank pants just like thierry. on his feet, were red, scuffed converse. a plaid shirt that was a size too big was covered by a black sweatshirt. it was covered with paint stains. mae didn't even want to ask how he got the stains. knowing kai, he didn't remember anyway.

mae was frustrated. "kai, how many times have i told you that you can't just drop in after months of not contacting anyone? you can't show up when you feel like it. you have responsibilities to take care of. not to mention that it's rude to avoid us," she made a sweeping motion with her hand toward thierry.

"i know and i'm sorry," kai said as he unfolded his legs bending forward to rest his elbows on his knees.

"oh, so that fixes it then," she asked, in an over

ight tone. she had a huge smile pasted on her face, but her teeth were clenched. "did you hear that, thierry? kai is sorry. well, i guess that makes everything alright. forget the fact that i have tried numerous times to contact you. didn't you feel your mark burning? how many hawks have you been hiding from so i couldn't see you?"

"quite a few, mae."

"kai, must we go over this again. your life is not your own anymore. avoiding that isn't going to make it go away. you made a bargain, so honor it. hiding for months at a time isn't going to make us go away either. you are more hopeless with every year that passes."

"i know that too, mae. and, it gets better? even though countless years have gone by, it never gets better. remembering, i mean. i thought time would make remembering easier, but somehow it just makes it worse."

"kai, if you're going to start feeling sorry for yourself," mae began to say but was cut short.

"leave him alone, mae," thierry said still reading his book.

"leave him alone? did you just say leave him alone, thierry? i haven't seen him for months, and you're telling me to leave him alone! kai doesn't know what's been going on around here. we have some serious issues to deal with, and the last thing i need to be worrying about right now is kai. wondering if he is alright. wondering why he hasn't spoken to us. right now we need to be focused on genesis and not this pathetic thing," she said as she slapped kai across the top of his head. he didn't blink.

thierry closed his book with a snap. "mae, shut your mouth." he didn't raise his voice an inch.

mae's mouth dropped open, and thierry reached his hand out. it was in a fist except for two fingers. he slowly

ought those fingers together until they closed.

"like this," he said as he nodded in an encouraging manner.

mae turned red, and her jaw dropped further before she snapped her lips together.

thierry put the book on the stairs. he leaned back on one elbow. "kai knows about genesis, mae. why do you think he is here? it isn't because he missed your charming personality."

"ridicule me all you want, thierry, but we are in major trouble. he knows about genesis? does he know what silas just told you? does he know who genesis is with right now? because you know that's who she is with. after what he told you, there is no telling what he is up to."

"silas can't do much, mae, even he knows that. genesis has to remember on her own. she has to make her own choices."

"that's true, but he can sure manipulate her a little. drop a hint here, drop one there. and what is this business about genesis being tested? what kind of test?"

thierry's eyes were on the empty spot where a photograph once hung.

"i didn't get all the details on that. but, i do know this- it's her choice, mae. silas can do his worst, but it's still her choice. he can't make her do anything she isn't willing to do. when her memory returns, she's going to have to make some decisions. why do you think i didn't stop her when she left earlier? because when it comes down to it, i can't. neither can you two."

"it's true, mae," kai agreed.

the house was silent, each of them lost in their own thoughts. kai was the one to

eak the silence.

"has anyone bothered to ask silas why he didn't tell us the whole truth in first place?"

"yes," thierry replied. "i tried and as expected it didn't get very far."

"it just doesn't make any sense to me, thierry. how does any of this benefit silas? it's pointless," she asserted.

he clasped his hands together. "look at me," he said. "i want you to

ace yourselves for what i'm about to tell you."

"i think-i believe… i don't know how to say this." thierry's uncertainty caused mae and kai to bend down close to him.

"i think genesis's return has to do with them. understand?"

"no, no, no, no, it is not possible," mae denied, but her voice held a tremor.

"mae, i don't know why, but i am convinced silas is working with them. the seekers. i believe that is why silas decided to

ing genesis back. it's tied together. we have to figure out how."

"dear god," mae

eathed. "that means…"

"yes, mae i know what it means. it means, somehow, silas has gotten to her."

fifteen

genesis walked by silas, trailing the path of the

idge. genesis was still trying to absorb what silas told her. he hadn't said a word since; opting for a heavy silence that permeated the air between them. genesis lifted her head to look up at the sky. she had the strongest impression that someone was looking back down at her. she shook her head and rubbed her eyes, the burning sensation in each irritating her. "come on," silas said as he took her hand.

he began to run, and so did genesis. with the wind cool on her face, she began to laugh. she laughed so hard her side hurt, though she couldn't deny that the pain was a pleasant kind. the kind that came with being alive. they came to a

eathless, laughing stop. silas put his arm around genesis's shoulders. they were no longer on a

idge, instead having entered a town that was lively and quaint. she was glad to be out among people. she felt some of the weight of the last few hours begin to fade. she busied herself with watching them. how happy they seem, she thought.

"you're quiet," he said and genesis shrugged. "i'm surprised the cavalry hasn't come to rescue you from my clutches. but, then again they wouldn't".

"i was just wondering why they haven't come to get me."

"well, they wouldn't now would they," he said as he kicked an imaginary stone on the sidewalk.

"what do you mean?"

he took a while to respond.

"just tell me already."

"they won't come after you. that's the bottom line. no matter how long you're gone. they realize you have to be your own person. you have to find your own life."

"silas, is mae my best friend? you seem to know us, and since i don't know will you tell me the truth? are we close?"

silas smiled. "the ever enchanting mae. she is something isn't she? yes, you have been friends for a long time. best friends. i don't know how you managed to put up with her for that long."

"you don't like her do you?" she asked already knowing the answer.

"i wouldn't quite put it that way."

"but you're not friends."

"no, we are not friends."

"what about thierry? did i always get along with him? he seems uptight to me, although i could be wrong."

silas response was wry. "trust me, you're not. he has always been very protective of you. at least, he likes it to appear that way."

genesis noticed silas's face changed. mentioning thierry changed him.

"what did he do to you?"

silas didn't pretend to not know who she was talking about. "he took everything from me. look, genesis, i don't want to get into that right now. talking about it only

ings up bad memories, so just leave it alone. it was a long time ago anyway. water under the

idge, i believe is the phrase."

genesis wasn't fooled by that remark. "it's not water under the

idge for you, silas."

"no, not really. but, they love you genesis. in their own way i suppose. they would do anything for you, anything at all. no matter what, despite any cost."

the words should have been reassuring, but they weren't. there was an undercurrent behind those words. so many undercurrents behind so many words.

snow was beginning to fall. genesis reached out to catch one of the flakes in her palm, dismayed as it began to melt into her hand. she clasped her fingers into a fist. silas was quiet again, so genesis turned her attention to the activity around her. genesis saw a family crossing the street. the mother was holding the hand of a little girl who was smiling as she spoke to her. the father had his arm around a boy who was in his teens. they looked so happy, with a deep sense of peace about them. it physically hurt genesis to look at them. she felt a tightening in her chest. watching them made her want to cry though of course she wouldn't.

the people around her were at ease with each other. they were waving and talking, calling out greetings to obvious strangers, bumping into each other and offering apologies. nobody seemed to mind. it was crowded so everyone seemed to understand. none of them spoke to genesis or silas. genesis looked at silas then back at the crowd. none of them touched her or silas either. now, genesis was looking hard at all of them. even when someone would come close to her, they didn't look her way. her eyes began to search out other eyes to make contact. not one single person paid her any attention. they veered a good distance away from her and silas. she glanced at him. he didn't seem to notice. genesis smirked. what silas told her was making her mind work overtime. she was imagining things; reading too much into them. she decided to greet the next person that walked past her, but a feeling inside her stilled the notion. she was scared, and deep inside she knew the reason why. they wouldn't respond because they couldn't see her. genesis was sure of it.

silas draped his arm around her, and drew her closer to his side. he still kept his eyes straight ahead.

"beginning to notice are you?" he asked. with his arm still around her shoulder he nodded his head in the direction of a random person. "they're clueless…they don't have any idea as to what is going on around them."

he turned to genesis with a half-smile. "or should i say, who is around them."

he chuckled, ruffling her hair. "you don't have a clue either, but you will soon. it's already starting to come back. you just don't realize it yet."

"good. i'll be glad when it does. then i can go back to being a normal person."

silas stopped. again, he motioned towards the crowd. "you think you're a person, genesis?" he made a tsk sound, wagging his finger. "come on, you know better than that. you're a smart girl."

he moved close. "if you ever need someone to talk to genesis come to me. i'm on your side. i will never lie to you. i will be as honest with you as i can. trust me."

with that, he backed away. genesis realized they were no longer in the town. they were back near the cemetery. how they had gotten there so fast she wasn't sure. she knew it was the cemetery because fog was circling her ankles, and she could no longer make out her surroundings. she heard a noise that sounded like it was coming from a single source. then, it grew louder as other seemed to join in unison. it hurt her ears and annoyed silas.

"mae and her hawks. she seems to favor them for some reason." he shoved his hands in his pockets. he had a habit of doing that, genesis noted. "she knows you're here. go on in."

genesis looked at the fog crawling up her legs now. "i thought you said i would never be able to find my way back without one of you. besides, i don't know if i want to go back."

"you don't have a choice," silas said. "anyway, you don't have anywhere else to go."

isn't that the truth, genesis thought.

by now the fog was up to her waist. it was thick, and she felt a choking sensation. fighting back panic, she asked silas, "aren't you coming in with me?"

he lifted a shoulder. "i don't think so. you go ahead."

"how am i going to get in, silas?" she was

eathing hard now. she knew he was going to leave her there. why hasn't mae come out to get me?

she strained to see silas through the white curtain enveloping her. she was gasping as the feeling became painful. silas wasn't making a move to help her. she didn't know what to do. her vision was getting hazy. the deafening sound of the hawks made her head pound.

in her mind came a vision. it was subtle at first- just a color. red. a river of red. the red began to take shape. it resembled a droplet of rain, except for the color. she didn't understand at first what it was, and then it hit her. blood. it was blood. not just any blood; it was her blood she was seeing. without conscious thought she lifted her hand. she dug her nail into her thumb. she didn't feel the sting of the sharpness penetrating her flesh. she watched as the whiteness of her thumb turned scarlet. not knowing why, genesis turned her hand upside down. it seemed an eternity passed before one drop fell to the unseen ground below. genesis didn't notice silas. she didn't see the glint in his eyes as he witnessed this event. she only saw the blood.

the first thing to cease was the noise replaced by utter silence. then the fog; recoiling away, it appeared to crawl backwards. and there it was- the clearing to the cemetery. genesis was still holding out her hand, trembling with the sudden realization that she just remembered something. she hadn't quite figured it out fully, but she remembered how to get into the cemetery. she also learned another thing, which disturbed her significantly more than the rest. her blood had power. she laughed, but it sounded shaky.

with her hand still outstretched, she turned to silas. "i remembered. it came to me, just like that. i remembered, silas." she was ecstatic. it gave her hope that things were turning in her favor. it was all going to be okay. however, she should have known better.

silas gave her a salute with two fingers. his image faded as he entered the fog once again. "you know, when you laugh like that you remind me of your sister, genesis."

that was the last thing she heard when the ground rushed up to meet her.

sixteen

genesis could hear birds singing. a feeling of warmth touched the right side of her face, and it dawned on her that it was the sun. she yawned as she wiggled her toes. she didn't want to leave the warm comfort of her bed. she could already hear her mother moving around in the kitchen. the sound of pots told her that

eakfast was not far away. her eyes blinked open to stare up at her ceiling. she flung her arm up to shield her eyes because the light was causing them to burn. she rolled over into a sitting position. she sat that way for a moment. she then stood up as her long gown tangled around her ankles. taking her time, she walked over to the basin to wash her face. a jug of water was already waiting for her, and it was still warm. she poured the water into the basin, cupped the water in her hands and leaned forward. she splashed her face a few times to help her wake up, to no avail. she heard raised voices coming from downstairs. her father. genesis patted her face dry, but avoided looking into the mirror. she didn't like mirrors. as she strained to hear the conversation, her finger traced a familiar pattern on her cheek. it was a scar. it ran down from her left temple to the corner of her mouth.

along with the familiar pattern came a familiar taste in her mouth. bitterness…enough to make her want to choke.

yanking off her gown, she stalked over to get fresh clothes to wear for the day. although her family could well afford it, genesis didn't wear fancy clothes. she learned that it didn't do her any good anyway. it was a wasted effort. she pulled on a shirt that buttoned up the front with long loose sleeves, and a skirt that was fitted around the waist. it flared slightly when it reached her calves. she left her hair loose. it would earn her a scolding from her mother, but genesis didn't care. it was her shield. it hung almost to her waist, and she left it unbound to hide her face.

with her head downcast, she made her way down the stairs. her father was sitting in his favorite chair talking to some of his business friends. her father was a

illiant businessman in both the manufacturing and trade industry. he made so much money he was able to purchase a horseless carriage, the first in their town, and a true testament to his wealth. it was a remarkable invention, the automobile, but then considering it was the early 1900's it didn't surprise genesis very much. new ideas and discoveries were more common than ever. they still had their old, horse-drawn carriage, and genesis preferred it much better. she loved the horses because horses didn't stare. instead, they just accepted.

judging by the tone of her father's voice, genesis could tell he'd already had too much to drink. she saw the glass in his hand. she could smell the stench of alcohol. he was a loud man, and as he spoke, his drink would slosh over onto the floor.

genesis went to clean it up, using the bottom of her skirt to mop up the liquid. her father didn't acknowledge her, which wasn't much of a surprise. she wasn't his favorite daughter. genesis wondered whether or not he even liked her. her sister, on the other hand, was a different story. she was the beloved one, the talented one. her sister could walk into a room full of strangers, and within minutes everyone would adore her. handsome, wealthy, young men fought over her. wherever she went she was the center of attention. her parents couldn't do enough for her. they spent time, and large amounts of money on her without complaint. the poisonous viper. genesis hated her with a passion.

"genesis, would you come in here please," her mother called from the kitchen. though they had servants, her mother liked to pretend she did everything herself. she had to make herself feel useful in some way. genesis hovered in the doorway to watch her mother. annabelle, or anna she was sometimes called. of course her

other thierry wouldn't be here. his fights were legendary in their town. their father wouldn't allow him back into their home. in genesis's opinion, that made thierry lucky. therefore, genesis had to stay, and be tolerated by her father-not loved. he only loved two things: money and his eldest daughter.

the other feeling she felt was revulsion because genesis no longer wanted her father's or her mother's love. that longing died many years ago on a night when the darkness exploded with flames. if she was still, genesis could feel the heat on her face, and smell her own hair burning.

genesis almost died that night; the night she rescued her sister from the raging fire. her mother infuriated her because instead of being glad her youngest daughter survived, she was horrified with the knowledge that she would have a disfigured child. genesis believed her mother would rather her have died in that fire than be scarred for life. genesis no longer cried anymore over people who didn't love her. they could rot for all she cared.

"genesis, what are you doing just standing there? come over here and help me," her mother demanded. being the dutiful daughter she was, genesis walked over to take a tray with assorted food out of her mother's hand.

"go take that to your father. and, genesis, be polite." her mother gave her the once over while shaking her head.

"why couldn't you have

ushed your hair and put on a nice dress, genesis? honestly, i don't understand why you don't put more effort into your appearance. you always slouch around with that hair hanging in your face. don't you have any pride?"

yes i do. which is why i will never be like you.

without a word, genesis turned to take the tray to her father. he was rampaging as usual about his business. his face was

ight red. she

ought the tray around to each of his friends offering them the food her mother made. genesis didn't make eye contact with any of them, and none of them spoke to her.

"it's high time i move out of this place," her father roared as he took a swig of his drink. "this backward town is getting too small for me. i need to expand;

oaden my business ventures. there is a lot of money to be made, and if i'm going to make a move, now is the time to do it. i also want to move out of this hovel," he said about his beautiful home fit for a king. he was sweating now, and he began to loosen his collar.

"i'm sick and tired of this place. i'm a rich man, and my home should reflect that. i can't think of one thing about this house that makes me happy, not one, gentlemen!" he raged snatching an item off of the tray in genesis's hands.

at this, genesis shrugged her hair off her face and over her shoulder. she glared at her father. he made her stomach turn with his greed, with the smell of his sweat.

be polite, genesis, her mother said. genesis was tired of being polite.

"i can think of one thing that should make you happy, father. how about your wife who grovels at your feet?"

you shouldn't have said that. the clock taunted her with its monotonous tick tock. her father's face went from red to white, then red again. genesis watched his eyes go from her to his friends, and she hid a smile. he was like her mother with an image to uphold. he would never want anyone thinking his family wasn't the picture of perfection. therefore, he wouldn't dare make a scene with them present. instead, he chose another route.

he burst out laughing and affectionately touched genesis's cheek. "i know that you crazy girl. i'm the luckiest man alive to have your mother." his friends joined in the laughter as the tension in the room evaporated. her father turned to her still laughing, but she read the silent message in his eyes. you shouldn't have said that.

she placed the tray down heading for the front door. she needed air. she stepped outside, and the winter greeted her. winter, she thought. that one word described her whole life. she never noticed how dreary it was during the day. so dark and bitterly cold. would summer ever return?

the streets were crowded, she noticed with annoyance. genesis never liked being around too many people. genesis had the sudden urge to buy tea; she loved tea. there was a place on the corner that sold her favorite kind. she made her way there, anticipating the peaceful feeling she always felt while drinking tea. it always made her feel better. she wanted to be away from home as long as possible to avoid her father. perhaps by the time she got back he would be gone. he was always away either for parties or business. maybe she might get lucky. her father didn't hit her, but genesis learned that there were different types of abuse. verbal being the worst of them. physical wounds could heal, but verbal wounds took on a life of their own. they slithered like serpents into the subconscious mind, and made people do the one thing that could be dangerous to their sanity. doubt. doubt was a powerful foe. it made one question everything: their friends, their looks, their abilities, their worth. her father was a master player at that game. he used to be able to wound genesis with his words; cripple her with them even. but, she was catching on. genesis wasn't knocked down so easily anymore.

she was so wrapped up in her thoughts that she didn't notice a tall figure coming towards her. the next thing genesis knew she was pushed to the ground. she winced as she lifted one of her palms off of the rough road. it was scraped with specs of blood and dirt. she wiped it on her dress. into her line of vision came a pair of nicely shined shoes.

"so, they let the dog out if its cage," came the smooth, accented voice of someone she once thought of as a friend.

a blast of wind kicked up dirt into genesis's eyes. her hands were so cold she could hardly wipe the grit out. she cursed the weather a thousand times.

winter, she thought. that one word describes my whole life.

seventeen

there he stood in all his self-privileged glory. anthony, the son of a rich man who had traveled from the south to meet with her father. anthony's father was in the trade business too. anthony was ostracized when he first came to their town because he didn't fit in with the crowd. he looked different, talked different, and acted different. that's what had drawn genesis to him. she understood the feeling, and thought she had finally found an ally. not to be friends, in the true sense of course, but someone who could help her get even. she had assessed him well when she met him. although the girls her age made fun of him, she knew they secretly wanted him. he came from money and he was handsome. and although the boys her age made fun of him and his strong, southern accent, she knew they secretly envied him. they envied his money, his looks, and the power that would come his way because of the money he was born into. he seemed like the perfect accomplice.

the problem was that anthony was weak. he still possessed that pesky desire to conform, so he began to act like them, and talk like them the best he could. he used his money to buy friendships and earn respect. after a while, people no longer laughed at his accent but found it endearing. they tried to emulate the way he dressed, and his mannerisms as well. soon, he fit right in. so, the unsuspecting young man who had been so friendly, so open and kind, vanished,

and in his place stood the creation of what cruelty gave birth too. genesis didn't care one bit about that. it just irked her that he couldn't be manipulated anymore.

"when are you going to learn some manners, genesis, and speak when someone greets you?" he asked in that southern dialect of his. "i bet your parents are so proud of you. you are truly the image of grace and beauty."

the small crowd that followed him found that hilarious. anthony was pleased with himself. one of the girls strolled up, and linked her arm with his. adla was her name. she was attractive and charming. but, adla's family didn't have much money, which meant she had to try even harder than the others. genesis could sense it in the almost manic way she pandered and clung to anthony. genesis knew adla didn't want to be this way, may not have chosen this path for herself, but sometimes life didn't always offer a choice.

"i love your hair, genesis. now, what look are you going for exactly? it is daring i must admit. but don't you think it would look better if you swept it up to show off your pretty face?" adla taunted her.

"yes, adla is right, genesis. that scar on your face is the perfect adornment for such a, how should i say this, peculiar person." the group cracked up. they patted anthony on the back, urging him on.

"oh, anthony, don't be ridiculous. that scar adds character," adla said. "all she needs is a little jewelry to compliment that delightful dress she is wearing. that is a dress, isn't it, genesis?"

genesis was standing with her head bent. she could feel her cheeks get warm. the taunts began to blend together, and she could no longer separate the voices. she didn't know who was saying what. someone even dared to reach out to touch her face, and yank on her hair.

be polite, genesis, her mother always said. genesis was tired of being polite.

her eyes shot up to lock with adla's. "you're absolutely right, adla. jewelry is just what i need. what kind do you think would best suit me? oh, i know what would be perfect. how about a gold necklace? what do you think of that, anthony? a gold necklace. you like those don't you?"

now, genesis turned her gaze to anthony. she noted with satisfaction that his smile was disappearing. it was disappearing because he knew what was coming next.

"how about one to match the one you gave to my sister," genesis said.

adla's smile was now gone too. she yanked her arm out of anthony's

istling with disbelief. "she's lying," was all she could manage. she fingered the gold around her own neck. the one anthony had given to her.

"no, adla, i'm not lying. as a matter of fact," genesis squinted to get a closer look at adla's neck, "that one you're wearing looks very familiar. i'm sure i've seen it somewhere before."

adla continued to scowl at anthony. "did you give one of these to her sister?" she demanded.

the group continued to snicker, but now it was directed at anthony. a tide of red swept up anthony's neck.

"you're going to believe her?" he stammered. "look at her. you're going to take her word over mine?"

genesis feigned surprise. "yes, now i remember where i saw that necklace before. it was placed inside a letter. you know, the letter you wrote to my sister."

the group roared at this revelation. out of the corner of genesis's eye, she saw the figure of a bystander. he was standing a short distance away, watching the scene with apparent fascination. every now and again, from her peripheral vision, she could see him smile. he wasn't with anthony and his followers, but by himself. she couldn't recall his name, but she had seen him before.

genesis lost any interest in trying to recall the man's name when she caught sight of who was approaching the scene. her sister, the miserable wretch, came

eezing down the road. genesis could hear people shouting out greetings to her, and her sister would reply with a laugh and a wave. she exchanged em

aces with a few of her friends, and business owners would come out and offer her free goods which she accepted with graciousness. genesis could taste vomit in her mouth. she didn't understand it at all. what made her sister so special, so respected? of course, genesis spotted her mother trailing along behind her sister. her mother lived through her eldest daughter, and even from a distance genesis could see the glow of excitement that lit up her mother's face at all the admiration.

in that moment, her sister glanced across the way and saw genesis standing there. their gazes locked for only a moment, but what was said in that moment between them spoke volumes. her sister turned her head and continued on her way. genesis felt her hands clench into fists.

"see, even her own family is ashamed of her. they won't even acknowledge her in public." anthony spoke the words loud enough for those standing by to hear.

he was close enough for genesis to see the perspiration forming on his upper lip despite the cold. she saw the loathing in his eyes as he looked down at her from his considerable height. he was mad at genesis for making him look foolish, and he was beginning to doubt himself. she could see it; doubt the formidable foe, such a powerful weapon.

his mouth was pulled back as he almost spit the words at her. "i am willing to bet that your family wishes you were never born. look at you, you filthy dog. even animals take better care of themselves than you. you think you have the right to stand here and talk to me- to us!"

he pointed across the street to her sister. "yes, i gave her the necklace. i felt sorry for her because she is related to someone as disgusting as you. that she is cursed to have to call you her sister," he shouted.

genesis wasn't quite sure how it happened. one minute she was being sprayed by the spit coming out of anthony's mouth, and the next minute her fist crashed into his nose. he yelped and staggered back. genesis tackled him to the ground.

shouts rang out around her head. genesis didn't stop to listen, her fist continuing to pound into anthony's face. red started to flow, covering her knuckles. he couldn't get in one punch. she felt arms grasping her around her waist as she was lifted off the ground. as soon as her feet touched the earth again she swung and connected with a nose. she turned back to anthony who was howling on the ground.

"shut up," she said as she kicked him hard in the leg. "i said shut up."

with that, she flung herself back on him again. hands were pulling at her from every direction. genesis was dimly aware of being surprised at her own strength when her hands

wrapped around his throat. she raised her arm to hit him again, and at the same time looked up. genesis was ensnared by a pair of dark eyes.

her sister was looking at her-not staring but looking. no expression could be detected on her face whatsoever. genesis didn't move, but her eyes were darting from face to face. every expression mirrored each other, faces comically painted with both horror and disbelief. all of the faces except for her sister's. she stopped her when no one else could. so arrested she was by her sister's face, that she allowed herself to be pulled away from anthony.

genesis' mother was sobbing as she picked up her skirt. she began to cross over to genesis, when her sister shot out a hand grabbing her mother around the arm. she said something genesis couldn't hear, but it stopped her mother. her sister turned still holding onto that arm. her eyes never left genesis as she began to walk away, pulling her mother with her.

genesis was certain she lost touch with reality because her sister was moving in slow motion. there was no sound. all genesis heard was her own labored

eathing. all she could see was those eyes that still held her own. until at last, with a small nod, her sister turned her head. then, she was gone.

sound came back full speed. startled, genesis took a few steps back. people were still yelling at her, cursing her even. a few people were throwing things at her. genesis noted that anthony was being picked up, and carried off by a few men. adla was standing there with her dress clutched in her hand as tears streamed down her face.

someone was telling people to leave; that it was over and everyone should go home. apparently, people were listening because the crowd started to disperse.

as she was watching them leave, she happened to catch a glimpse of her reflection on the glass wall of a building. what she saw made her freeze. long, dark hair surrounded her face. there was blood on her clothes. she lifted her hand to examine her bloody fingers. the skin was scraped off her knuckles, but she didn't feel any pain. she raised her head again to stare at the person looking back at her. she wanted to cry, but she wouldn't allow herself that luxury. her hand rose to touch her face. is this really me? dear god, did i just do that? her hand dropped down. i'm sorry, i'm so sorry.

a whistle jolted her back-someone was whistling. a tune she couldn't place, but whistling just the same. in the glass, he came up beside her. the one who had been watching her earlier. genesis had forgotten all about him. genesis didn't turn towards him, just watched him through the glass. he continued to stare down at her.

"be sorry for nothing," he said.

"what makes you think i'm sorry?" she asked.

he didn't answer just started to whistle that tune again. she could still hear him long after he turned the corner. it hit her then, his name. silas, yes that's it. his name is silas.

eighteen

when genesis returned home, she was thankful nobody was there. the last thing she wanted was a scene with her parents. she started to go up the stairs, and she rubbed her knuckles because they were beginning to ache. she

ought her hand up to her mouth to blow on the open cuts, when a noise came from upstairs. genesis paused on the stairs and raised her head. she stood a moment to determine where the sound was coming from. she heard another small sound- a giggle. it was coming from her sister's room. genesis was as quiet as she could be as she crept

up the stairs. her sister's door was cracked just enough for genesis to peer inside. her sister had a friend over. they were both trying on dresses and complimenting each other on how beautiful they looked. they were having a grand time; neither aware of her presence. she listened to find out if her sister mentioned the fight from earlier, but she never did. genesis heard her sister's friend

agging about how one of the town's most eligible young men asked her to the theatre. her sister loved this, and went to suggest what dress would be appropriate for her friend to wear. they chattered amicably as a tide began to build in genesis, a wave of such hatred that her vision faltered. genesis wanted her sister's life. she wanted to have lots of friends and admirers. she wanted to wear dresses fit for a queen. she wanted to be loved. not for sentimental reasons, but because love meant power. when someone loved you, it gave you power over them. genesis was done with being a helpless, obedient mat that people wiped their feet on. she wanted her sister's life, and genesis decided in that second that she would have it, no matter the cost.

a plan took root in her mind. a devious plan. it would require help from the one friend genesis trusted in the world, and a drunken idiot. as genesis continued to watch the scene in front of her, she mulled over the question in her head. if her sister was disfigured, would she still be the favorite? it would serve her right. am i really capable of harming my sister?

she saw her sister fluff her hair in the mirror, and her question was answered.

genesis smiled, but it didn't reach her eyes. her sister would never see it coming.

nineteen

pike knew she was waiting for him. it didn't cause him to worry. she had no choice but to wait. it was raining now in the idyll, and he knew in a moment it would be snowing. the dead

anch of a tree made him trip. the

anches tried to slither around his throat and bind his wrists, but he moved with practiced speed, rolling to his feet and continuing on his way. the trees hissed as he rushed by. he knew the inhabitants inside were responding to the smell of human emotions on him. he saw arms and hands reach out to grab him as he rushed past, but one couldn't actually call them arms or hands. they were the color of ash without real shape. just the vague outline of what was once living that remained. as he passed, they retracted inside their dwellings compromised of gnarled, decaying twigs. they twisted tighter and tighter forming shelter for those in the idyll. their sizes were intimidating to say the least. some were long, flat shapes, with dried snow caked into the crevices. others, had

anches reaching high in the air that separated into different directions. they pulsated and vi

ated with life; however, they weren't alive. nothing was alive in the idyll. it was a barren place except for the endless array of skeletal trees with their withered leaves.

those beings that pleased majesty; who carried out her plans with success, were given certain favors. the rewards varied. some were given dwellings that were spacious; however, seekers didn't care about that. what they did yearn for was the one privilege denied them- the ability to feel. as a reward, some were given a

ief moment to feel. the seekers, those who existed in the idyll, only had feeling in that

ief moment. otherwise, they couldn't feel happiness or sadness. the only being in this place that could feel every emotion was majesty. if a seeker pleased her, for the

iefest moment, she would allow it to feel any emotion it craved: hunger, fullness, joy, peace, and even grief. seekers were so grateful to her for that fleeting emotion. pike knew she didn't do it to be generous. she did it to be cruel. to tease them with what they could never have.

the fortress came into view just as the snow began to pour. the snow wasn't white. it was the color of coal. it blew in great gusts that never fell to the ground, hovering in the thick air. pike heard the faint sound of laughter; he knew it was the wind. it was taunting him again with memories, and at times with visions from the other world. pike couldn't remember how long he had been in the idyll. of course, his actual body was buried long ago in a grave he knew was never visited. it didn't matter to him.

a vicious gust kicked up the snow which streamed into a giant wave crashing into pike. he didn't feel it. that's when he heard the scratching. the fortress was close. he managed to dodge a clawed limb reaching to grab him. there it was in plain sight. the structure was impressive.

the bottom was comprised of thick, bulging limbs that provided ample support for the foundation. the fortress itself was made of rotted wood. the thin

anches writhed and coiled around one another forming the exterior. they snaked up together reaching a towering height. clumps of twigs that were meshed together resembled decayed fingers. the scratching noise intensified as pike approached the entrance. there were hundreds of seekers gathered at the base of the fortress. they were scratching at the bottom limbs they could reach. but it wasn't a frantic scratching. it was lifeless. in another life, pike might have felt pity for them, but not in this one.

pike existed for one purpose- doing majesty's bidding. then, he was able to cross to the other side and join the living. he could savor the taste of food, feel pleasure at the sun shining on his face, and feel the coldness of winter's

eath on the back of his neck. the downside for pike was the fact he could only stay as long as the precious, black liquid remained in the vial that allowed him to

each the barrier between his world and the next. majesty kept him and some of the others on a short leash. if silas's plan worked, he would never have to return to this miserable place again. and with the way things were playing out right now, it was going to be easy.

there were seekers who made it to the other side, but never returned. pike had been to the other side many times. he knew the urge to stay was all consuming. pike also knew this was an act of sheer folly. seekers were warned by majesty that remaining on the other side was lethal. pike knew those seekers met their demise.

he stood at the entrance to the fortress and waited. he waited for her to sense him; it was the only way anyone could enter the fortress. after a few seconds, a doorway started to emerge. pike knew it was safe for him to step through. the seekers behind him knew better than to try and follow.

as pike entered the corridor, he didn't glance at the rows of seekers lined on each side. they didn't glance at him either. they waited swaying back and forth. they wouldn't make a move without an order from her.

the corridor had rows with lights that didn't shine. only a faint, grayish hue cast shadows on the rotted leaves that crunched beneath his feet. it was long, winding and turning until pike finally reached the main room.

a lone figure sat on a wooden throne. its

anches were embellished with jewels of several colors. however, the once

illiant gems were devoid of any glamor. majesty had put them there. she sent seekers out into the other world to gather the prized jewels for her. she demanded they find one of every color and every make. some seekers never came back and others did.

even though majesty's blood allowed seekers to enter the human realm, majesty herself wasn't able to cross the barrier. she said it was her punishment. she said one day he would be sorry for doing this to her. she said one day he would pay. her voice was filled with so much hatred when she spoke of him. pike was certain one day she would make good on her promise.

the seekers who returned from one of her missions were rewarded. she would allow it to see in color, but only for a second. then the color was gone. majesty loved her little games.

pike looked up at the vast ceiling which displayed the most intricate chandeliers in the world. he recalled majesty saying they came from europe though he couldn't quite remember. their patterns and designs reflected wealth and genius. they were not like any of the modern chandeliers pike saw on the other side. majesty didn't like anything modern. she preferred things that were older.

he saw the collection of books, originals no less, stacked up high on one side of the room. stolen- all of them. many of them were written in different languages. paintings worth millions in the other realm were displayed with great care. enormous statues, coins no longer made, gowns made of the finest fa

ic. there were pieces of treasure stashed everywhere. majesty was an avid collector of things.

even though majesty's blood allowed seekers to enter the human realm, majesty herself wasn't able to cross the barrier. pike, nor any other being in the idyll, received any pleasure from this lustrous collection. the coins lacked their golden luster, the myriad of colors were muted on the paintings. the once alabaster glow of the statues faded into nothing. in the idyll, only one being could appreciate the valuable collection along with the beauty they possessed. but not anymore. pike knew why this was so, but looking at the shadowy form on the throne, he knew he had a lot of explaining to do. the problem was that there was only so much he could tell her. pike was good at twisting the truth.

as he approached, the bent head lifted. eyes focused on him. from a distance, it seemed like she had no eyes at all, only black sockets. as he got closer, the sockets became a shape. she didn't move as he made his way to her. long hair the color of smoke floated on unseen waves. the ribbons of her loose fitting gown stirred in a nonexistent

eeze. at times her image seemed hazy, and then stark with clarity. she looked like death yet beautiful.

he didn't say a word as there was no need.

"he lied to me, pike," she said without any emotion.

"mistress, it is as you say. i'm so sorry," he said with false sincerity.

"he promised this would all change," she waved to the room around her.

she lifted a piece of her hair and let it trail through her fingers.

"he said i would be able to see color," she said as she flicked the strand away. "all lies."

"mistress, may i remind you. i did try to warn you not to trust him. even his own kind don't fully trust him. he's a sentinel," he spat the word. "with all due respect, didn't you ever question why silas would want to help you?"

"no, i didn't," she replied as she stroked a finger along a splintered

anch where she sat. the

anch hissed.

"i'm beginning to wonder, pike, why silas would lie to me? he told me once majesty was gone, i would remember everything. he assured me that i would be like her; able to feel and see colors. i'm wondering, pike, why he would do that?" she asked continuing to stroke the lone

anch. she turned, locking those black sockets on pike's face.

pike knew that if he was in the other world, he would have been afraid. he would have every reason to be afraid, but instead pike felt nothing.

"silas is up to something, mistress. have no doubt, i will find out what it is."

drawn by an irresistible force, pike turned toward a small enclave in the corner of the main room. he began to clench and unclench his hands in an unconscious movement. he was trembling. a giggle worked its way up, but he stifled it with his fist. that room was the source of all the yearning in the idyll. pike would do anything for what was in that small enclave. seekers would do anything for what resided in that small, black hole. even though he couldn't see them, he knew they were there. the tiny vials that held the key to everything he wanted- they wanted. blood. majesty's blood- black as night. only with those vials could a seeker enter the other realm. the problem was that the blood didn't last very long. a seeker had

to return to the idyll before it ran out. majesty warned them dire consequences would take place if that happened. now that majesty was gone, only mistress could enter the blood room. that was the only thing that kept pike, and the others seekers in line. if mistress didn't possess this ability, she would hold no sway over any of them.

pike turned his head to find mistress standing in front of him. she, too, looked in the direction of the blood room. her head tilted at an unnatural angle while her lips spread in an eerie grin. the black eyes narrowed as she turned.

"the vials are growing short in number, pike. soon, there won't be any. now that majesty is gone, whatever will you do? you won't be able to use her blood to escape this place anymore nor will anyone else," she said with her lips still stretched into that grin.

pike knew why she said this. mistress was the only one in the idyll not allowed to use the vials. she could touch the vials, just not use them. majesty refused to let her. she did love her little games.

"i'm going to give you one vial, pike, and then find silas. i want to know what game he is playing. he promised once majesty was gone i would be free. i wouldn't be bound by the rules of this place," she took a step closer.

"he said my blood would have the power. he said i could cross over at will. he said i would become flesh and blood just like her."

"yes, that is what the sentinel said."

her form blurred out of shape which made her invisible for a moment. she returned and was sitting on the throne.

"do i look like flesh and blood to you, pike?" she asked.

pike shook his head. then, she started to laugh. it didn't sound like the laughter he heard from the other place. that sound had a purity to it, yet this had something else. she laughed and laughed as her mouth gaped open. it was a deep, pounding sound. she was horrible.

"i tricked her! i didn't think it was possible. i didn't think the witch would fall for it, but she did!" her hysteria trailed off into silence.

"well, silas did lie to me about certain things, but at least majesty is dead and gone. i killed her," her fingers began tracing the

anches once again. she

eathed the next words with venom. "because. of. me."

"mistress, that is not entirely accurate. you see, majesty is not dead." twenty

genesis woke to an outstretched hand in her face. why was she always passing out? more to the point, why did she keep dreaming about a red-headed girl? silas was in this one too. her dreams took place in the nineteen hundreds. it was so bizarre. the people in her dreams were her family. she called the red-haired girl her sister. it all felt so real, but genesis knew that couldn't be true. she would be dead and gone if that was true. genesis knew what the current year was.

perhaps the girl was a sentinel which genesis had yet to meet. or maybe a forgotten friend who was trying to make herself known. she dismissed it, as it was unimportant. she couldn't worry about some phantom girl and phantom family. she had other issues to deal with.

and why was she always on the ground? she ignored the hand for a moment as she tried to familiarize herself with her environment. under her palms she felt the roughness of pavement. she was on the ground, of course she was. she blinked, focusing on the face that belonged to the hand.

genesis grasped mae's hand allowing herself to be pulled up. she had two things to confront mae with, as well as her

other.

"my sister," she blurted out. "he-silas said i have a sister!"

"yes, that's right," mae said.

"yes, that's right," genesis repeated in a disbelieving tone. "that's right you say as if it's nothing. any particular reason this fact was not mentioned to me? oh, wait, let me guess, i have to remember," she said. "where is she? i want to see her now."

"i didn't want to tell you right away because you already have so much to deal with, but i'll tell you. you had a sister. she died," mae's eyes never left her face.

"died," genesis said. "she's dead. you're telling me my sister is dead."

"that's right."

genesis took a few steps absorbing this new information. parents...dead…sister...dead. my god, what nightmare have i woken up too?

"do you remember her at all?" mae asked.

genesis didn't speak as she shook her head.

"alright, then, here it is. your sister died a while ago. you weren't too

oken up about it because you two didn't have the closest relationship.

genesis's voice was incredulous. "what are you saying to me, mae? i didn't care about my sister dying? what…what does that say about me?"

mae was silent.

"did she die with my parents?

"no," was all mae said.

genesis wanted to ask how her sister had died. the question was burning at the back of her throat. she could taste the words, but she didn't voice them. for some reason, the question consuming her remained unasked. "i wouldn't have told you anyway," mae stated as if she could read her mind. genesis scoffed at that. she wasn't surprised.

genesis held up her thumb still streaked with her blood. "do you know about my blood? it's how i got back. "

"i won't discuss that."

"of course you won't."

genesis placed her hands on her hips.

"alright, then, back to my sister. her name. are you allowed at least tell me her name?"

"her name was lilith."

mae touched her arm, making time stop.

twenty one

once her vision became clear, genesis saw she was standing in the living room of the old house in the cemetery. when she saw the figure reclining in the chair she didn't even hesitate. she strode up to him punching him in his face with all her might.

"you knew. you knew and chose to let me find out the hard way. why didn't you tell me about our sister? why!"

thierry rubbed the red spot on his jaw. "i was going to tell you eventually, but i thought you've had enough shocks already. i was trying to be considerate."

genesis rounded on mae who huffed holding up her hand. realizing she wouldn't get anywhere with her, she turned back to her

other.

in turning, her gaze was caught and held by someone standing by the winding staircase. unkempt was the first word that came to her mind. he looked like he had thrown on the first items of clothing he could find and didn't care how they looked.

as her eyes traveled back up to his face, she looked into eyes as black as her own. water. ice cold water. genesis couldn't see or feel anything but the water choking her. she had the sensation of struggling, but it was useless. she was weighed down. in her mind's eye she looked down to see that a heavy skirt was hindering her progress. it was the same manner of dress she had worn in her dream. a dress that belonged to a different time. she clawed through the murky depths, her lungs burning.

the vision was gone just as quickly as it had come. her gaze roamed over the oddly dressed person who had yet to greet her. she took a step toward him when the crystal orbs changed color. the a

uptness of it caused her to momentarily forget what had just transpired.

two of the pulsating orbs began to sizzle and crackle with light. genesis noticed the ceiling and walls radiated a multitude of colors.

mae stepped forward. "genesis, we'll have to deal with this later. we have to go. kai, it's you and me."

kai stepped away from the staircase.

genesis watched, fascinated, as the two of them stepped up to the orbs. mae reached out touching one of them. genesis couldn't describe it in any other way; mae was sucked into the light and vanished. in the next instant, the same happened to kai.

genesis knew her mouth was hanging open. she turned to thierry.

"have a seat," was all he said, beginning to read his book.

twenty two

kai was outside a diner. he glanced around trying to get his bearings. he had to know where the portal was so he could get back. he noticed a mailbox less than an inch behind him. he also noticed the store across the street with the blinking sign. there were two words painted on the sign, but the first was the one that interested him. liquor. he could taste the word in his mouth. he lost track of time, and realized it when his mark started to glow. kai crossed halfway across the street unconsciously. he pressed his lips together. he turned his attention back to the diner. it was small and needed a paint job. the sign that read as open twenty four hours was only partially lit up. the whole place could use an overhaul- it looked neglected. kai liked it.

he opened up the door with the rusty handle stepping inside. there was a musty smell that suggested mold.

he saw her sitting in the last booth in the corner. her shoulders were hunched as she stirred her cold cup of coffee. kai knew she didn't intend on drinking it; that's how he knew it was no longer warm. her mind was on something else.

he walked towards her unnoticed by the other customers. he slid into the seat opposite her and leaned back against the ripped cushion of the seat. she didn't take her eyes off of her coffee.

"meredith," was all kai said.

red, swollen eyes met his. she didn't look surprised; she didn't even flinch. she looked like the picture of agony.

her eyes drifted down to her coffee. she began to stir again.

"i know what you are." her voice was monotonous.

"no you don't, meredith."

"of course i do. you're the angel that's come to stop me."

kai leaned one arm on the table. "i'm not an angel, meredith."

she took in his appearance, his strange coloring. or, rather, his lack of color. her eyes crinkled just a bit.

"well, that makes more sense. you're the other kind."

"i'm not a demon either."

"what are you then?"

"i'm here to intervene you could say."

a harsh sound met his declaration. she knew what he meant.

she looked out the window as she spoke.

"she just got her license last month. she was so excited. i can still see her huge smile when she posed for the picture. she seemed to be laughing her smile was so wide.

kai noticed her throat convulse as she swallowed a few times. he didn't speak.

"there was a movie playing that night she wanted to see. a few of her friends wanted to go too. i admit i was nervous. it was nighttime, and she had just started driving. but, i told myself the theatre was only ten minutes away. her friends lived in our neighborhood. what could happen in ten minutes?"

a silent tear rolled down her cheek. kai knew she was speaking more to herself now than to him.

"i told her over and over to be careful. i told her she had to be an offensive driver because the road could be a dangerous place. people on their cell phones, kids not paying attention, the whole nine yards. she was a smart girl, a good girl. she was always careful. she picked up her friends and was about two minutes out of the neighborhood when it happened."

"if it's any comfort, meredith, she died instantly."

her lips drew back from her teeth as she spit out the words. "comfort. how dare you. you think it comforts me to know my sixteen year old daughter died instantly? she shouldn't have died at all!"

meredith's voice was heaving now with rage.

"he plowed into her, and she flew through the window. i didn't recognize her face when i saw her. do you understand that? my daughter's face was almost peeled off, and you talk to me of comfort!"

"i didn't mean to offend you. i just wanted you to know she didn't suffer."

she screamed the words at kai, "she's dead and she didn't suffer!"

kai didn't worry about the volume of her voice. no one would hear her anyway. the sparse amount of customers ate their food in oblivion. she could yell all she pleased.

"a drunk driver mowed down my only daughter like an animal. he thought he ran into a tree he was so wasted. he thought it was funny. he laughed while my daughter's face lay in pieces all over the road!"

she was sobbing the words now. her eyes had a feral gleam in them. her sobs turned into chuckles.

"but it's going to be okay now. i'm going to fix it all. it has to be made right, don't you understand? he'll be at the courthouse today. i'm going to make everything alright."

"let the court handle it, meredith."

"he's dead," she said with such force that kai could see the veins sticking out in her neck.

kai leaned forward. "meredith, you're going to die today."

she stood up as she spoke. "i'm dead already." she walked out of the diner heading in the direction of the courthouse.

meredith didn't notice the weather changing. she kept julia's image firmly in her mind. her beautiful julia who was now rotting in her coffin. hate filled her, fueled her.

the courthouse came into view. rain was now beginning to pour down. meredith's hair was plastered to her head. she relished it. this was probably the last time she would feel rain. she climbed the steps leading to the main entrance. she knew there were armed guards there with metal detectors. she didn't worry about that because she had no intention of going through those detectors. she knew what time he would be arriving and she waited. she sat on the bench outside in the downpour. she reached into her purse to feel the reassuring metal of the gun she purchased a few days ago. meredith knew he would be arriving with his lawyer. they let this scum out on bail. at first, his release had made her furious, but now she was glad. it made her task that much easier.

she saw the car pull up. there he was, dressed in a suit and carrying an um

ella as he darted up the steps. he didn't see meredith, but she saw him. john goodard, the man she was about to kill. he was fifty years old. that pissed her off. he got to live much longer than julia. he opened the courthouse door and went inside.

meredith got up, pulling the gun from her purse; not attempting to hide it. as long as she could take him down before the police got to her she didn't care. she moved with purpose as she cocked her gun.

kai stood inside. his eyes tracked meredith's progress. he looked over to his left. john goodard was standing mere inches from him. he was talking with his lawyer.

kai conjured up julia's image in his mind. her hazel eyes and chestnut hair. the smattering of freckles across her nose. the tingling began in his fingers as he felt julia's presence. he felt the change begin to take place. he waited for meredith.

twenty three

meredith pulled open the glass doors and stepped inside. she shivered in the cold air conditioning. a few people stood in front of her waiting to go through the metal detectors. there were armed officers all over the place. none of them noticed the gun she carried in her hand. not yet. her eyes zeroed in on one person. she fingered the gold cross around her neck saying a silent prayer. god please forgive me. she started to raise the gun when a familiar scent filled the air. lavender. the smell was strong. it caused meredith to hesitate for a moment.

"he's already forgiven you, mama."

meredith felt every hair raise on her body. she wanted to look but was terrified. she'd heard that voice a million times in her dreams. she also heard it in her nightmares. maybe she was finally going crazy. she turned her head, and the gun clattered to the floor.

julia. her lovely, dead daughter stood in front of her. meredith was transfixed at the sight of her. she had seen her many, many times, but of course they were visions conjured up by her mind; her longing. this was different. she didn't know why, but she knew. julia's skin was luminous. light spilled from every pore. she was smiling. meredith took an involuntary step towards her. she wanted to reach out and hug her. she was scared. she was so scared she would vanish. but, she reached out anyway. julia didn't vanish. meredith connected with solid skin

causing a rough sound to clog her throat. she grabbed her daughter and held her. she knew her fingers were digging into her, but she couldn't stop herself. sobs ripped her apart as julia's familiar perfume wrapped around her. she cried and cried. she pulled back looking into that beloved face.

"my god, i miss you; every day every hour. it's endless. i can't live with it anymore, julia. it's got to go away. please tell me you understand. please tell me it's okay."

julia reached out to touch her mother's ravaged face. she wiped away the tears from her cheeks.

"it's not okay, mama. you know that." julia touched the cross resting at her mother's throat. "this isn't you. this is hate. this is what it does."

"yes, it is. i hate him with everything inside me. i want him to be punished; isn't that fair? he took everything from me. yes, i hate him for it. i want to see his face when i pull the trigger. i want to see the fear in his eyes when he realizes he's going to die. i see it over and over in my mind. i want justice. do you really think god blames me for that?"

"he doesn't blame you, mama."

a picture so sharp appeared before meredith. the flashes so vi

ant it hurt her eyes to look at it. it was a cross with a trickle of blood coursing down one side. it flashed to a hammer raised in the air, and a cracking sound as it connected with metal. meredith reached up to grab her head when she felt a piercing against her skin. thorns.

"he understands. this isn't about blame. it's about you finding peace. you have to forgive him."

"what! there is no way in hell i'm going to forgive. just let it go, let him go! no way in hell is that going to happen."

"mama," julia murmured. "i'm not telling you to forgive him for him. i'm telling you to forgive him for you. you do it for yourself. so you can move on, so you can begin to live again."

"i don't want to live. it's too much pain."

"but that's what i mean. i don't want you to be in pain. i can see you. did you know that? i see you so miserable and it hurts me. i want you to be happy."

"i don't know how, julia," meredith said as she clenched her daughter's hands. "this is the only way i know how. you were everything to me. i have nothing without you."

"mama, death is not the end you know. i'm more alive now then i was then. it's so beautiful over there. no words can describe it. i'm not dead. i'm everywhere. i'm in the clouds. they're soft just like i imagined they would be. i can touch the sun and run on top of rainbows. i swing from the stars and then land on the moon. i can hold a lightning bolt in my hand. can you believe that? i run through meadows with the greenest grass, but it's not the green you know. i feel love everywhere. no more tears. never, ever a tear. i'm free."

meredith couldn't speak. she just stared at her daughter in wonder. she could almost see exactly what julia was talking about. her daughter laughed spreading her arms wide.

"i'm free, mama."

meredith found herself laughing in response to her daughter. her joy was infectious. meredith had forgotten what if felt like to smile.

"i'm not gone. i'm never gone. i'm right here waiting. i sit on the roof of our house sometimes singing. i know you can't hear me, but i can't help it. there is always singing over there."

meredith wound a strand of julia's hair around her finger. she let it slide out of her grip so that it rested back on julia's shoulder.

"don't be sad, mama. years are going to pass before we meet again, and i know that's the hard part for you. you're going to miss me during those years and that's hard. but, when you feel sad, just look at the sky. i'm there in the clouds. know i'm happy. know i'm watching you. and on that day when it's your time, i'll be the first person you see. he told me that, and he doesn't lie. then, we can run on the rainbows together."

meredith was smiling so hard her lips hurt. she was still crying, but the tears were different now. she didn't remember the reason she was in the courthouse until she heard him speak. john. she had a feeling julia deliberately wanted her to notice him.

"don't worry about him, mama. none of us get completely away with the deeds we do in life. there are consequences; especially the taking of a life. if you don't believe anything i've told you believe this- he will pay."

meredith was watching him. that awful, suffocating weight was lifted off her. a feeling enveloped her that she never expected to feel again. peace. the all-consuming hatred was gone. looking at her daughter's radiant face gave her a peace that had eluded her for so long.

"baby, how long will his trial last? are you able to see that? what will happen?"

julia never took her eyes off her killer. "he will never make it to trial."

"never make it to…what do you mean?"

for the first time since meredith saw her, julia's face turned somber.

"cancer is a terrible thing."

"are you saying that is his punishment for what he did to you?"

"mama, there are many good people in the world. terrible things happen to them, and no, it's not a punishment. unfortunately, it's life. many times bad things happen to good people. people who don't deserve to suffer."

her eyes were fixed on the person responsible for her death. "that doesn't apply to him. however; in some cases, consequences are well deserved. for people like him, it is never, ever pleasant. he will know what it is to suffer. and john goodard's actions have already manifested themselves in another realm. a realm that has the ability to wreak havoc over here."

meredith's

ow creased. she didn't understand her daughter's words. she was speaking about some other realm. what did she mean? meredith was about to ask her this very question when her daughter cut her off.

"be careful how you live your life, mama. you are one of those good people. when you do wrong, your conscious bothers you. you don't like doing wrong. not everyone is like that."

"julia, what are you talking about, honey. another realm? what are you saying?"

"the things we do in life are not forgotten. they

eathe."

meredith felt a trickle of fear. she rubbed the back of her neck without realizing it.

"

eathe?"

julia's face once again lit up. "yes,

eathe. but, you have other things to focus on. daddy loves you. he needs you. your friends need you. you have a lot left to do, mama."

she reached out and em

aced her mother. meredith held on tight. she kissed her daughter's cheek. it was warm.

"remember," julia leaned to the side to get a better view of the sky. she pointed a finger upwards giving her mother an impish grin.

"see that cloud right there? that's my spot. great view, mama. i love you."

with those last words she was gone.

"i love you, too," meredith whispered to the spot where julia had stood.

meredith walked out of the courthouse into the

ight afternoon, the gun left on the floor. her steps were light. she inhaled the crisp air. she looked up at the cloud julia showed her. meredith smiled.

"i love you, too, baby."

meredith could have sworn she saw the outline of a hand waving.

kai stood in the courthouse. julia's presence was gone now. at times, his ability to channel the dead was a gift. sometimes, it was a terrible reminder. kai knew all too well the devastation alcohol could have on families. particularly, when it resulted in death. because kai had been drunk the night he took a life.

twenty four

mae stepped through the portal and found herself inside a girl's locker room. she deduced it was a high school locker room. mae grinned. these were always her favorites. she knew in an instant what she would be dealing with. girl's locker rooms always meant one thing. it only took her a second to find her. the queen bee as she liked to call her. it was obvious. her little drones swarmed around her with a mixture of two emotions mae saw every time. adoration and fear. every one of them wanted to be her and vied for her attention. yet, given the chance, every one of them would put a knife in her back. watch her bleed to take her place. mae smiled wider. screwing with their minds was always fun.

she found her next target without really trying. mae saw this scene a million times. she could predict where she would be standing. in the corner, the farthest locker away from queenie. she must have just showered because she had a ratty towel that had once been pink wrapped around her. her long, dark hair was a curtain around her mocha skin. she stood so close to the locker. mae knew she wanted to disappear into it without being noticed. mae knew that wouldn't happen. it was going to start any minute now.

mae walked closer to the locker. none of the drones saw her. she leaned against one of the metal doors just watching. she enjoyed these the most. high school drama never got old. it began to unfold in front of her.

the girl's shoulders hunched over as she reached inside the locker. her fingers picked up the bottle, caressing it lovingly. she'd thought about this for a long time yet always found a reason to stop. rutu was running out of reasons. she'd tried so hard to ignore them, but they were everywhere. their taunting was relentless. the notes thrown at her during class calling her disgusting names. the hallways were the closest thing to hell rutu could think of. she'd lost count of the

uises she'd endured from being shoved into the wall, or the faces who had thrown food at her during lunch. her hair had been ripped out countless times by a faceless person who would run behind her and snatch her hijab off her head. sometimes, she would find it lying burned next to her bike.

rutu looked over at the source of her torment. allison. rutu didn't know why she was so popular. she wasn't a cheerleader, and wasn't involved in any kind of club. she didn't do anything of significance, yet she reigned unchallenged over the school. what a vicious ruler she was. she instigated most of the harassment towards rutu. people followed her without question. rutu still wasn't able to figure that out. why did she have so much power, so much influence? rutu was tired of trying to understand it. rutu was tired of it all. she thought of her mother as she wrapped her hand tighter around the bottle. her mother would be destroyed. so far, that had

been the only motivation for rutu to keep on going. she knew it was wrong; maybe selfish even, but she was lost. every avenue she took to get help ended in failure. the school could only do so

much. she knew that. in all fairness, they tried. they called allison and rutu into a meeting to try and work things out. she still saw allison's cool gaze as it rested on the school counselor. the counselor didn't meet her eyes. rutu knew that she too, was intimidated by allison. as they left the office, allison gave rutu a look that spoke volumes. rutu didn't challenge her again.

the bottle of pills belonged to her mother. they were for nerves. rutu knew her mother took the pills because she worried for her. rutu told herself she was doing her mother a favor. she wouldn't have to worry anymore. but instead of opening the lid, her hand slid off the bottle. she couldn't do it. she wasn't ready. she cursed under her

eath and began to pull out her shirt.

rutu tensed when she heard footsteps approach behind her. she knew who it was, so she didn't bother to turn. the silence stretched into tension. rutu felt a tap on her shoulder.

"rutu, i almost didn't recognize you with your hair loose. have i ever told you that you have such pretty hair?" the comment received a smattering of snickers.

"oh, my goodness, rutu, is your habib missing again?" the girl said with false concern. the snickering turned into loud giggles.

"it's called a hijab," rutu said.

"that's right. that's what you people wear."

rutu remained silent.

"i know how proud you are to be one. that's why i wrote it on your locker. so everyone could see. and you think i'm not your friend, rutu. that hurts my feelings."

rutu saw what allison had put on her locker. it was written with red spray paint in all capital letters. muslim. she knew allison didn't put it there herself. she always got someone else to do her dirty work.

"did you ride your bike to school today?" she turned to the crowd behind her. "you know she rides a bike, don't you? really, rutu, it's time for that to change. besides, it's ugly. "

rutu knew what that meant. they must have done something to her bike- probably hidden it. she wouldn't find it again.

allison reached up to touch her damp hair. she turned to the group behind her.

"i forgot to get a towel for my hair."

one of the girls made a show of looking around. she shrugged her shoulders then eyed the towel wrapped around rutu. she had a frantic anticipation radiating from her like an animal closing in on prey. rutu knew what was coming.

"there aren't any more towels, allison. rutu took that last one."

allison rolled her eyes. "well, go get it from her. i'm dripping here."

the wolves closed in. rutu was not going to allow them this final humiliation. she knew they would take pictures. maybe even shove her out in the hallway. she felt hands grab at her towel. then, it all ceased.

time froze. it all came to a grinding halt. for a moment, rutu was bewildered.

to her, the room felt like it was filled with invisible water, yet she was

eathing just fine. she heard her shallow

eath echoing in her ears. that's when she saw the girl standing next to her. she was smiling. i'm definitely dead, rutu thought. she knew in her bones there was

nothing human about this girl. she didn't know why; she just knew. there were only two splashes of color to her which consisted of tiny, red bows in her white hair.

the girl reached into rutu's locker; which was still open, and flicked the bottle of pills. it was a playful gesture.

"come on, rutu, you don't want to do this."

rutu stared at the small vision. she opened her mouth, but it seemed to take effort.

"what happened?" her voice sounded so strange. like a recording being played in slow motion. she could only come to one logical conclusion.

"it must have been something bad."

"well, don't sound so shaken up about it," the girl laughed.

rutu studied her. "are you really here?" she fingered the side of her head. "did they knock me into the locker?"

"no, they didn't," the girl said. "not yet at least."

when rutu didn't speak the girl rolled her eyes indicating with her hand.

"i'm here to help you, get it? my name's mae by the way."

rutu shook her head.

mae muttered through her teeth." the things i go through." she got in rutu's face.

"what do you think is happening right now?"

"i…i have no idea."

mae snapped her fingers a few times. "work with me, hon, work with me. it's an intervention."

rutu looked her up and down. "intervention…what are you?"

mae struck a pose. "many things, my love, many things. but, right now, what i am is your wake up call."

rutu opened and closed her mouth. she looked back at allison and her crew. they were frozen in the attack position. she had to be hallucinating.

mae said, "no, you are not hallucinating."

again, rutu repeated herself. "are you really here? what are you?"

"i'm going to help you," she nodded in allison's direction. "and her in the process."

"why? what do you mean?"

"i have no choice. it's my duty you might say. that's where you and i differ. do you mind if i give you a little advice? you know, just girl to girl."

i've lost it. rutu was sure of it.

mae clapped in her face. "listen to me. you are not crazy or imagining things. i'm right here. now, listen up."

mae reached out poking her in the middle of her chest.

"what's the matter with you? you're a smart girl. and you let them get away with this nonsense. you cower in the corner. why! does that make it stop? you scurry along the hallways like a mouse. does that make it stop? hell no! all that does is make it worse."

mae whipped her head to glare at allison. "see what you made me do? you made me curse, damn it!"

mae banged her fist into the locker and inhaled…then exhaled. as she did this, she moved her hand up and down in a soothing motion.

"sorry," she said as she looked upwards. "sorry," she said to rutu. "i lost my temper; never a good thing."

rutu glanced up at the ceiling to see who the girl was apologizing to.

"back to what i was saying. take just a second to look at them. really look at them. go on, they can't hurt you."

rutu was so used to avoiding any eye contact with them, that as soon as she looked she lowered her eyes out of habit.

mae nudged her chin back up. "don't do that. ever again."

with reluctance, rutu gazed at the girls who were making her life pure misery. some of the fear began to subside as she studied them. she found their expressions interesting. all of allison's friends had similar ones, sort of frenzied. in contrast, allison's face was calm. her expression was clear-satisfaction. cold, hard, satisfaction. allison was making no move to grab the towel. she stood with her arms crossed.

"are you beginning to see now?" mae pointed at allison. "that girl right there is regina george."

"who?"

"don't tell me…you have never seen mean girls? doesn't anybody watch the classics anymore? i can't believe this. mean girls is just about the most accurate movie when it comes to girl relationships. when you leave here go home and watch it."

"why? is it going to help me?"

"no, it's just an amazing movie," mae laughed.

rutu's eyes darted toward the exit sign. maybe she could make a run for.

mae waved her hand. "rutu, my point is that what this group is," she pointed toward rutu's tormentors, "are just a bunch of mean girls. that's it. they are not superhuman, they don't possess some mystical power to marvel about, and they are not invincible. do you hear me? they. are. not. invincible. when these pieces of crap graduate high school what do you think they become? nothing. why, you ask? because they are nothing without each other. and you have more power than all of them combined."

rutu's eyes went from mae's to allison's. rutu did not believe that for a minute. "i don't think so."

"of course you do. because you know their innermost fear."

"i do?"

mae arched a

ow. "i do. i guess you could say it's a gift i have. i can see what people fear the most. it's very simple. bullies all have the same fear. would you like me to tell you what it is?"

rutu nodded.

"their biggest fear is becoming you."

rutu felt her lips tremble. she blinked because her eyes stung.

mae wagged a finger in her face. "no, don't cry. that was not meant as an insult."

mae put her arm around rutu. "see, i compare them to a beehive. allison is the queen bee, and all her lap dogs are the drones. they work and work to please the queen. they know a slip, just one, small slip will get them kicked out of the hive. getting kicked out of the hive means becoming you. you have to destroy the hive."

"you're saying i need to go after allison? how do i do that? i don't have anything over her."

mae patted her head and smiled. for some reason rutu felt like an idiot.

"oh no, you don't go after the queen. you'll never get to her. you go after the drones. all it takes is one- that's all. just one and they self-destruct."

"which one should i pick first?"

"that's what's so great. it doesn't matter just pick one."

"i can't. i don't know anything to use against them. besides, they don't care what i say."

"you know all you need to know. you have the advantage, rutu, because you don't have anything to lose."

"what should i say?"

"you're a smart girl. what's important to them?"

"belonging; being a part of something." it came out more of a question than a statement.

"and if they don't belong, what happens to them? what do they become?"

rutu's eyes got big. she was starting to understand. "a target."

"there you go," mae said and dropped her arm from around rutu's shoulder.

rutu was trembling, but not from fear. it was excitement. was this girl…mae, was she right? was she strong enough to pull this off?

"you are," mae said.

"i just need to make up one good lie. that's all?" rutu asked.

"you don't have to lie. just…throw out a small, off-hand comment. use whatever you can against them. even if it's small. be vague."

rutu knew they loved to take pictures of people then post them online. humiliating pictures…mean pictures. she had an idea.

mae stepped back and nodded her head. "ready?" she asked.

rutu nodded back. she was ready.

motion returned, and with it so did the grabbing hands.

"stop," rutu said. she didn't shout, but her voice was authoritative. it was a command. the hands dropped. she surprised them.

she turned, half stunned it worked, to look at mae. she was gone.

the attackers stood there. they were uncertain, so of course they looked at allison for directions.

allison didn't look satisfied now. a spark of anger was spreading across her face.

"who are you to tell us to stop, you freak? you're a freak, you know that, rutu?"

one of allison's faithful followers was getting her second wind. her name was cassie. she carried out most of allison's orders. she took a step closer to rutu. and so it shall be, rutu thought. cassie, today is just not going to be your day.

"i'm taking your picture, rutu."

"yes, cassie, i know you like to take pictures."

"i sure do," cassie replied with a smug grin.

"i know. you like to take pictures, and you don't care who they are of or what they are."

"sure don't," cassie was still advancing.

"i wonder, i really wonder cassie if your friends here would approve of all the pictures you take. aren't you supposed to show them all the pictures you take? but, then, you wouldn't show them these pictures, would you?"

"what are you talking about?" cassie demanded.

"you know," rutu said as she let her eyes run over mia; the action was deliberate. mia was another one of allison's worshippers. mia's pose went from relaxed to tense. her eyes darted from one girl to another.

"what is she talking about, cassie?" mia asked clearly unsettled.

"i don't know," cassie responded as she rubbed her palms against her legs. "she's just trying to get something started."

rutu remained calm. "that was mean, cassie. you shouldn't have done that."

agitated, cassie almost shouted, "do what?

mia was now scowling. "did you take pictures of me, cassie?

cassie rounded on mia. "she's lying! i didn't take any pictures."

"really? then why wouldn't you let me look through your phone the other day. remember when i said i wanted see the pictures of us at the beach? you said no. why cassie? what didn't you want me to see!"

"if i don't want you to look through my phone that's my business. what's wrong with you today, mia?"

"you know what, this doesn't surprise me. lucy said you were two faced. she said i better keep an eye on my boyfriend when you're around."

cassie's jaw dropped as her attention went to lucy. lucy's face was scarlet.

"well," lucy's tone was defensive. "you did say you could have him if you wanted him, cassie. and you did put that note on his car. you stuck it under his wind shield wiper."

"thanks luce, thanks a lot. i told you not to tell her, didn't i?"

"cassie, it is her boyfriend. you do this all the time with her boyfriends." her face was the picture of sympathy as she spoke to mia.

"i'm sorry, mia, i told her not to do it."

cassie shoved lucy hard. "you're a damn liar, lucy. you thought it was hilarious. you were the one that said we needed to teach mia a lesson. you were the one that said she thought she was too good for us, and that was stupid with her father being an illegal and all. does that ring a bell?"

"an illegal," mia shrieked. "you said that about my father? you're one to talk lucy. jemma said that the whole neighborhood knows about your mother's…how i should say it…weekly indiscretions with your pool man!"